Kedarnath is one of the most renowned Shiva shrines in India, recognized as one of the twelve Jyotirlingams. It holds the distinction of being the northernmost Jyotirlingam, with the southernmost counterpart located in Rameswaram. Situated in the majestic Himalayas, Kedarnath is revered as one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the country. The shrine is steeped in ancient history, rich legends, and profound religious significance, with the spiritual leader Adi Sankaracharya closely associated with it.

As winter approaches in November, the holy statue of Lord Shiva is transported from Garhwal (Kedarkhand) to Ukhimath. The statue is reinstated at Kedarnath in the first week of May, marking the reopening of the temple doors to pilgrims from across India. The shrine closes on the first day of Kartik (October-November) and reopens in Vaishakh (April-May) each year. During its closure, the temple is buried under snow, and worship is conducted at Ukhimath.

Among the Himalayan shrines dedicated to Shiva, four are celebrated in the Tamil Tevaram Hymns composed by the Nayanmars of the 1st millennium CE. These include Indraneela Parvatam in Nepal, Gowrikund, Kedarnath, and Mount Kailash in Tibet. Although none of the Nayanmars visited Kedarnath, the poet-saint Sambandar praised it from Kalahasti, referring to Kedarnath as Tirukkedaram in the Tamil hymns.

According to tradition, as ordained by Lord Brahma, the temple remains open for six months, from the Hindu calendar month of Vaishakha to Kartik, for public darshan. During the remaining six months, from Margashirsha to Chaitra, the temple is closed to the public as it is believed to be the Devas’ turn for darshan of the Lord.