Gauri Mata Temple, Gaurikund
Gaurikund, Uttarakhand
Gaurikund is the last road-head before the Kedarnath trek, at about 1,980 metres. The small Gauri Mata Temple here is dedicated to Parvati, who is said to have meditated at this place to win Shiva. Pilgrims offer prayers here before they set off, and many bathe in the warm springs by the temple.
What to see and do
- Offer prayers at the Gauri Mata Temple before you start the trek
- Dip in or sit by the warm spring (the Taptakund) if you wish
- See the pilgrims gathering for the climb
- Rest and warm up before the walk to Kedarnath
Ideal for
- Pilgrims about to start the Kedarnath trek
- Devotees of the Goddess
- Families who want a short, calm stop
Good to know
- Private vehicles stop at Sonprayag, and a shared jeep takes pilgrims about 5 km to Gaurikund
- The trek of about 16 to 18 km starts here, so start early
- Shops sell rain ponchos, sticks and warm clothes
- Keep documents, registration and cash safe
Spiritual significance
By tradition, Parvati meditated here for years to win Shiva, and Gaurikund is where the Kedarnath yatra begins.
Why it matters
- Where Parvati's tapas is remembered: the start of the Kedarnath path
- A calm pause before the climb: a place to pray and prepare
- The warm spring: pilgrims traditionally bathe here before the trek