KEDARNATH 
The Himalayan abode of Lord Maheswar 

As the 15 - Kilometer long track is laid through the mountainous terrain over the ridge of the fast flowing Mandakini river, thousands of feet below, riding becomes extremely arduous. The countless ups and downs with intermittant sharp curves and dead ends all along the route instill diffidence, and a few even end their journey abruptly; but the pious deem it an ordeal deliberately set by the Almighty and reach the destination, falling and rising, shivering and shrinking all through the route. The mountain weather with its vagaries, like sudden drizzling and icy blasts intensify the fears of reaching the shrine, despite equipping oneself with warm clothing, such as thick pull over, monkey cap, woolen gloves and umbrellas. Above all the heavy traffic of thousands of ponies from start to finish along the narrow, snow drenched, uneven road add an additional quantum of fear to the weary, shriveling pilgrims, for, everyone is a novice to riding; and particularly to cover a distance of 15 kms, at a stretch in the first instance itself is a Herculean task, but all perform with tingle minded devotion. There lies the strength of faith and wealth of the maturity of soul, mind and body.

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