panch kedar trek distance

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Kedarnath Temple Opening Date, Booking, Distance, Weather, Char Dham Yatra 2024 in Uttarakhand.

Panch Kedar Yatra 2024 (Travel Guide)

Panch Kedar is part of Lord Shiva’s body that appeared at five places in Kedarnath Town. It is said that the Pandavas built temples at each of these 5 places.

Panch Kedar Yatra 2024

Panch Kedar Yatra consists of Temples namely Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheswar, and Kalpeswara.

It takes 14 days to visit all five shrines of lord shiva. There is a spherical trek which is the only way to visit all Panch Kedar temples. And for most of the part, you have to walk from temple to temple.

The best way to visit Panch Kedar is a bus service that leaves Gaurikund near Kedar Nath. The Timing of this bus is every morning at 5 am and stops at every point for Panch Kedar temples.

Panch Kedar Route Map

Panch Kedar Yatra starts from Kedarnath Temple . And to reach Kedarnath Dham, first of all, you have to reach Gaurikund via Kund. You can see as shown in the above image of the Panch Kedar Temples Route Map.

One more option for helicopter service is there from Phata to Kedarnath. The second destination is Madhyamaheshwar, the third is Tungnath, the fourth is Rudranath, and the last fifth is Kalpeshwar Temple.

1. Kedarnath Temple (First Panch Kedar)

Kedarnath is a holy Hindu town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand . It is one of the Chota Char Dhams located in the Northern Himalayas. The height of Kedarnath is 3584 meters above sea level. And Kedarnath Dham is Near the head of the Mandakini River. The Kedarnath Temple lies on the lap of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges and is visited by thousands of tourists each year.

Travel Tips For Kedarnath

• One can also find mules and porters for hire. Before hiring you can check the official price chart.
• For safety reasons, do check the ID cards of porters and mule owners.
• While traveling in monsoon, check with local authorities and tour guides about the weather conditions before you start the journey.
• Photography is not allowed inside the temple due to religious reasons. And It would be wise to follow the rules set up by temple authorities.

Ukhimath or Okhimath is just a little away south of Guptkashi. It has a colorful temple and monastery, which has many small cells for meditation. And pooja for Kedarnath is done in Ukhimath only when snow in the hills rises cold in winter.

The doors of Kedar Dham are closed for 6 months in the winter season. For This Period, Shiva’s worship is done in Ukhimath with all the rituals. Ukhimath has all the different forms of Lord Shiva. So if you are not able to visit Panch Kedar, then getting a darshan of all deities at Okhimath is equal to being blessed by all the forms of Lord Shiva.

This friary is also the seat of the immortal saint, such as Parashurama and Visvamitra, as well as Varahi and Chandika, the Tantrik goddesses.

In Okhimath there are many temples of Lord Shiva Goddess Parvati, Usha, Mandhata, and Aniruddha. It is believed that Usha-Aniruddha’s marriage took place in Okhimath. Usha along with her father used to live here.

Must-Read Articles:

• Kedarnath Yatra 2024
• Badrinath Yatra 2024
• Gangotri Yatra 2024
• Yamunotri Yatra 2024

2. Madhyamaheshwar Temple (Second Panchkedar)

A local bus goes every day between Gopeswar and Guptkashi, and from there you can return to Guptkashi and then visit Okhimath and continue on to Mansuna village.

From Mansuna village it is a 24km trek to Madhyamaheswar (3,497m), which is 30km away from Guptakashi. One can stop at Ransi overnight, and then you can go to Gondar (3km) and climb 10km to Madhyamaheswar.

The temple here is a small stone temple that is dedicated to the middle (Madhya) part of the bull form of Lord Shiva.

Mysteriously snow-covered towards the Himalayas, on the right of which, are lush green alpine plains on the left side, and dense forest act as its backdrop. The grazier huts, village houses, thousands of years old Madmaheshwar temple, and heavenly views complete this town. The temple architecture is a classic North Indian style.

Travel Tips for Madhyamaheswar

• The temple remains closed from November to April. So if you are planning to visit the temple during winter. Then don’t forget to check the opening and closing dates.
• If one has difficulty in trekking or carrying luggage, especially for old people who are not physically fit. Then you can also find mules and porters for hire, especially during peak season.
• And the timing of the Madhyamaheshwar Temple is from 6 AM to 9 PM.

3. Tungnath Temple (Third Panchkedar)

After Kedarnath, Tungnath is the most popular Temple in Panch Kedar. Tungnath is the highest temple in India in terms of altitude. The Hight of Tungnath Temple is about 3,680m or 12,065 ft. It is the world’s highest Shiva Temple among all.

Beautiful mountains near Tungnath are Neelkanth, Kedarnath, and Nanda Devi. The Shiva temple here is on a stone-paved platform overlooking a cliff. There are five statues of faces of the Pandavas along with the deities of Vyasadeva and Kalabhairava in the temple. And there is also a small temple of Goddess Parvati.

You can get here by trekking from Chopta (7km, 4 hr), which is 37km from Ukhimath. The distance from Chopta to Tungnath is about 7km which can be covered in 4 hours of walking.

Tung Nath peacefully located on the Chandranath Parvat is the highest Shiva temple in the world and the highest Panch Kedar temple of Uttarakhand.

It is one of the third Kedar (Tritiya Kedar) in the pecking order of the Panch Kedar Yatra 2024. Tungnath is at an elevation of 3,680 meters above sea level. And it is considered to be more than 1,000 years old.

Travel Tips for Tungnath

• For a physically fit person trekking to Tung Nath can be easy.
• The trek route is comparatively easy but running, cycling and swimming can all help improve cardiovascular stamina.
• One can also find mules and porters to hire, especially during the peak season.
• Avoid traveling during the monsoon season. Because the high mountains of Uttarakhand are prone to landslides during the rain. After the Landslides, roads get blocked and you can get stuck there.
• Being situated in a remote area, facilities like ATMs, and petrol pumps are not available at Tungnath, one has to go all the way to Gopeshwar or Ukhimath to get these facilities.

Related Posts:

• Kedarnath Flood Story
• Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
• Kedarnath Shivling Story
• Kedarnath Facts
• Kedarnath Bhajan

4. Rudranath Temple (Fourth Panchkedar)

Next, you can go to Gopeswar by road and then to Sagar. From there it is a 24km trek to Rudranath, dedicated to the head of Lord Shiva.

There are mesmerizing views of the Trisul, Nandadevi, and Parbat peaks, and down below there are small lakes flowing with the enchantment of nature’s beauty.

To reach Rudranath you can also walk from Kalpeswara. And Rudranath is the highly revered temple of Lord Shiva is peacefully situated in the Garhwal Himalayas.

It is the fourth temple to visit in the sacred Panch Kedar Yatra 2024. The angelic temple is snuggled inside the rhododendron forests and the alpine grasslands.

Travel Tips for Rudranath

• The thrilling trek to Rudranath temple can either begin from Sagar village, Helang, or Urgam village.
• Rudranath temple is the toughest one to reach in comparison to other temples of Panch Kedar.
• The Himalayan ranges adding to the glory of Rudranath are Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Ghunti.
• Rudranath Temple remains closed from November to April due to heavy snowfall just like Kedarnath Temple.
• Every day the morning aarti at the sacred Rudranath Temple starts at 8 am in the morning and 6:30 pm in the evening.
• The trail leading to Rudranath is challenging and risky but equally rewarding and adventurous.
• It is sensible to check with local authorities, tour guides, or tour operators about the weather and condition of roads especially during monsoon before you actually start your trek or trip.
• having a skilled and experienced guide with you would be helpful for you because the guide would know the route very well and trekkers won’t lose their way.

5. Kalpeshwar Temple (Fifth Panchkedar)

To reach Kalpeshwar temple you have to travel by bus to the village of Helang, 14km south of Joshimath, and from Helang you have to walk 9km to the village of Urgam, which has basic accommodation and food. From there it is a 1.5km walk to Kalpeswara Temple. Kalpeshwar is dedicated to the matted hair (Jata) of Lord Shiva. And it is made up of rock that is entered through a cave.

Kalpeshwar is the last and fifth Temple in the list of Panch Kedar Yatra 2024. And it is the only temple of the sacred Panch Kedar that remains open throughout the year.

Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of matted hair at Kalpeshwar. And the trace to this sacred shrine goes through thick forests and lush green meadows. There is also an old Kalpavriksha tree here which is believed to be the wish-granting tree in Hindu mythology.

Travel Tips for Kalpeshwar

• There is not much beauty in nature that can be seen.
• Rudranath Temple can be reached from Kalpeshwar by trek. One should check the Trek route from Kalpeshwar to Rudranath.
• Photography may be prohibited inside the temple and especially inside the sanctum. Please follow the guidelines outlined by temple authorities and respect the purity of the place.

According to Mahabharata, when Pandavas were searching for Lord Shiva, he turned himself into a bull to avoid detection. However, when Bheema tried to capture the bull, it disappeared. After that, reappeared in the form of body parts at five locations. As a result, these five locations are presently known as Panch Kedar.

The hump reappeared at Kedarnath, the arms appeared in Tungnath, the navel appeared in Madhyamaheshwar, the face showed up at Rudranath and the hair and head appeared in Kalpeshwar.

It is said that the Pandavas built temples at these five places for worshipping Lord Shiva. Many devotees of Lord Shiva take part in Panch Kedar Yatra at all the five Shiva temples mentioned above.

Panch Kedar Trek

The Panch Kedar trek is a pilgrimage trek that covers five ancient Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Uttarakhand region of India.

• The total distance covered in the trek can vary depending on the route taken but typically ranges between 150 to 200 kilometers (93 to 124 miles).
• The trek can be completed in 15 to 20 days, depending on the pace and duration of stops along the way.
• It is a challenging trek that involves steep ascents, rugged terrain, and high altitude, so it is recommended for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness.

Char Dham Distance from Delhi:

• Delhi to Kedarnath (466 km)
• Delhi to Badrinath (555 km)
• Delhi to Gangotri (530 km)
• Delhi to Yamunotri (485 km)

FAQ About Panch Kedar

Here are the most frequently asked questions about Panchkedar.

What is Panch Kedar?

Panch Kedar refers to a group of five Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. These temples are considered to be among the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva in India and are an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Shiva.

The five temples that make up the Panch Kedar are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar. Each temple is believed to be associated with a different part of Lord Shiva’s body: Kedarnath with the hump, Tungnath with the arms, Rudranath with the face, Madhyamaheshwar with the navel, and Kalpeshwar with the hair.

According to Hindu mythology, the Panch Kedar temples were built by the Pandavas, the heroes of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, as a way to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for their role in the Kurukshetra war. The temples are located in remote areas of the Himalayas and are considered to be difficult to access, adding to their spiritual significance for pilgrims who undertake the journey to visit them.

Where is Panch Kedar?

The Panch Kedar is located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. The five temples that make up the Panch Kedar are spread across different parts of the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.

• Kedarnath Temple, which is the most famous and important of the Panch Kedar temples, is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand.
• Tungnath Temple is located in the district of Rudraprayag, while,
• Rudranath Temple is in the district of Chamoli.
• Madhyamaheshwar Temple is located in the district of Rudraprayag, and,
• Kalpeshwar Temple is situated in the district of Chamoli.

All of these temples are located in the Himalayas and are situated at a high altitude, requiring a certain level of physical fitness and endurance to reach them. The region is known for its stunning natural beauty, and many pilgrims also visit the Panch Kedar as part of a trekking or hiking expedition in the Himalayas.

How to visit Panch Kedar?

Visiting the Panch Kedar temples requires some planning and preparation, as the temples are located in remote areas of the Himalayas and are not easily accessible by road. Here are some general guidelines on how to visit the Panch Kedar:

• Plan your itinerary: You can start by planning your itinerary and deciding which temples you want to visit. You can either visit all five temples or choose to visit some of them based on your preference, time, and physical fitness level.
• Reach the nearest town: The nearest town to the Panch Kedar temples is usually Gaurikund, which is located at the base of the Kedarnath Temple. You can reach Gaurikund by road from major cities in Uttarakhand such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun.
• Trek to the temples: From Gaurikund, you will have to trek to each of the temples as they are not accessible by road. The trek to each temple varies in difficulty level, and you may need to be physically fit to undertake the journey. There are also options to hire a pony or a mule to carry your luggage and help you with the trek.
• Accommodation: You can find basic accommodation and food facilities at each of the temples or at guesthouses along the trekking route. However, it’s recommended to carry some essential supplies such as warm clothes, medicines, and snacks with you.
• Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Panch Kedar temples is during the summer months of May to June and September to October when the weather is pleasant, and the trekking routes are open. The temples remain closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.

It’s advisable to plan your trip well in advance and consult with a local travel agent or tour operator for a hassle-free journey.

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Panchkedar Trek & Drive

Uttarakhand |

Uttarakhand | India

Max Altitude

Trekking Km

Moderate to Difficult

Help & Support

38000 /person $ /person.

• September-2024
• October-2024
• +5% GST (goods and services tax)
• Services Rishikesh to Rishikesh | Included Transport

Offload 8000

Backpack offload is optional

Choose add-ons during booking. If missed, log in and add them later.

Book off-load at least 10 days before the trek.

For offline bookings at the base camp, a convenience fee of Rs. 10000 applies.

Cancellations made before the trip date will receive a full refund.

For more information. Please complete this form.

Help & Support

Trek Name: Panchkedar Trek & Drive

Adventure Type: Pilgrimage Tours

Base Camp: -

Season: Summer | Monsoon | Autumn |

Month: April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November |

Country: India

Altitude: 13000 Ft.

Grade: Moderate to Difficult

Rail Head: Haridwar/Rishikesh is the nearest rail head to the base camp

Stay: Hotel/Guesthouse/Village Homestay and Camps (Triple/Quad sharing)

Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs)

Location: Uttarakhand

Distance: 130 Km.

Trail Type: -

AirPort: Jolly Grant Airport, which is 21 km away from Rishikesh

After Char Dham Yatra the Panch Kedar or the five temples dedicated to Lord Shiva are considered significant in Indian Mythology. As per the saga, the five Kedar have relevance from Mahabharata. The legend says that Lord Shiva was unhappy after the Mahabharata War due to wrong practices during the war. Also, the Pandavas were in distress due to the killings of their brothers (Kauravas) and Brahmins in the war. They wanted to seek his blessings but Lord Shiva did not want to oblige them. So he hid disguised as Nandi in the Garhwal mountains.

When Bhim one of the Pandavas spotted the Nandi, Lord Shiva submerged in the earth and reappeared at five different locations in pieces. These panch spots are the Panch Kedar . It is believed that Nandi’s hump is at  Kedarnath , his legs at  Tungnath , his mid-torso at  Madhyamaheshwar , his hair is believed to be at Kalpeshwar  and his face at  Rudranath . The circuit of these prime shrines completes the Panch Kedar Trek.

Apart from its devotional attribute, this wonderful hike has adventure and gives an adrenaline rush as you touch every temple. All of these Cedars are located in the western Uttarakhand or the Chamoli district. They are all accessible by roads and stunning trails concealed by deep woodlands. The trek begins from Haridwar and then Joshimath which is the starting point of the long trek.

Each day is a discovery of the hidden thrill of the Garhwal Himalayas, eye-soothing meadows, verdant forests of rhododendrons, fierce Ganges, chirping of birds and lively animals dancing around, all of this adorned by snow-crowned peaks. Camping amidst such wilderness is an exceptional experience that makes us grow as a person. The trek route is easy to grade but provides a different set of challenges of 12 days of survival in the jungle.

It is believed that this Yatra completes the purpose of life. But being a trekker one must not miss this fun, easy and incredible adventure. Come and walk the path like a nomad for 12 days.

• Who can Participate
• Important Links
• How to Reach
• Trek Essential

Who Can Participate

Age; 15 years.

Experience of any high altitude trek, at least 1 treks of 4,000m/13,100ft.

The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without stress.

The climber should be able to carry a 12-16 kg backpack.

Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 90 beats per minute)

Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 70 – 90, SYSTOLIC 100 - 140 mm Hg)

Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute)

Should not have Liver and kidney issues

Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension etc

No pacemaker implant

People with the Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek

If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.

        Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

• Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when you join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed  for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and Ministry Of Tourism (MOT) 
• Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before trek departure date, 
• This service is exclusive to Indian government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
• Do mail at info@trekthehimalayas to apply and mention your booked trek date and trek name.

Junior trekkers (below 15 years) should have a company of parents/guardians.

Trekkers between 15 to 18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.

• Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

Exercise For Moderate to Difficult

Fitness Regime For:

Calculate Your Bmi

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Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!

Rishikesh To Guptakashi

The journey to the Panch Kedar begins at the holy city of Rishikesh from where we will travel to Guptakashi via Devprayag and Rudraprayag. The route to Guptakashi is extremely beautiful as you will drive along scenic roads with River Ganga and then River Alaknanda accompanying you.

From the name Guptkashi, you might have guessed that it means hidden Varanasi.  It is one of the most prominent pilgrimage places in the country. Located on the way to the Kedarnath trek, Guptkashi lies in Mandakini Valley and the presence of the Champak flower is pretty prominent here. Guptkashi is nothing less than a natural wonder with lush green valleys and the backdrop of the Chaukhamba Peak, standing tall in its snow-ensconced beauty. As per the Puranas when the Kurukshetra War was over, Lord Krishna advised the Pandavas to atone for their sins from the crimes they committed during the war, and as such the Pandavas went out in search of Lord Shiva. Pandavas were trying to reconcile with Lord Shiva for their journey to heaven. Shiva concealed in Gupt Kashi in the disguise of Nandi. Later Shiva escaped to Kedarnath where Pandavas found him. Hereditary priests stay in GuptKashi in winter when the Kedarnath temple is closed. When you reach in the evening try to catch up at ArdhNarishwar temple, a unique temple that presents the idol representing half Lord Shiva and half Goddess Shakti. Sleep well at your Guest house at night as tomorrow, you will trek to Kedarnath tomorrow.

Guptakashi to Gaurikund and trek to Kedarnath

From Guptkashi you will head to Gaurikund from where the Kedarnath Trek starts. Upon arrival at Kedarnath ji proceed for the trek for holy darshan at Kedarnath temple. Kedarnath Dham needs no introduction. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, a perfect Himalayan getaway with terrific historical and mythological prominence. More importantly, it is just a magnificent spot of beauty and serenity with the Kedarnath Range as the backdrop.

From Gaurikund start your trek and continue through Rambada Bridge to reach Jungle Chatti, your first stop point. Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti is at a distance of 4 km. If you are tired, take a break here, have some water and refreshments and continue on your journey. From Jungle Chatti, the next stop is at Bheembali, which is at a distance of 3 km from Jungle Chatti. There are accommodations along Bheembali as well. The third stop is at Linchauli, which is 4 km  Linchauli, accommodations are available at Linchauli as well. The mountain views from Linchauli are extraordinary and will take all your tiredness away. From Linchauli, it is another 4 km to the Kedarnath base camp. From the base camp, you will get a panoramic view of the mountain environs and the temple not very far away. You can feel the divine mysticism and the spiritual aura of the place as soon as you set foot on the Kedarnath shrine. The Kedarnath peak stands tall behind the temple adding to the divine aura of the temple. Overnight stay is arranged in camps/guest house in Kedarnath.

Descend from Kedarnath and drive back to Guptakashi

Get up early in the morning before dawn and after taking a bath visit the temple by 4:45 am for the Abhishek’ to Kedarnath Shiva. After Temple Darshan and Post breakfast begins your downward journey from Kedarnath. Trek down to Gauri Kund, which is known for its hot spring. There is a famous Parvati temple as well. According to legends, Gaurikund is where Parvati did penance involving yogic and ascetic practices to win Lord Shiva’s heart and it is believed that Lord Shiva accepted to marry Parvati here and they got married in the Triyuginarayan temple. From Gaurikund you will drive to Guptkashi. Overnight stay is in Guptakashi.

Drive from Guptakashi to Ransi and trek to Gaundhar

Another exciting day and its time to move to the second Kedar – Madhamaheswar. The journey begins from Guptakashi by road to Ransi, a 35 km drive. After which there is a 6 km trek to Gaundhar. The route is made of mud and scree. The motorable road ends at Ransi village and the trek starts from here. It is a well-paved path with the Madhyamaheswar Ganga River flowing on the right. It is an easy route as it is mostly downhill and it is since the route is a part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, the views, and the biodiversity is amazing. You can witness the rich biodiversity of the region with its beautiful flora and fauna. You will encounter numerous butterfly species, lizards, mountain goats, guard dogs, sheep, monkeys, and various bird species as well. The mountain and the forests will give you an amazing opportunity to be close to nature and absorb its peaceful vibrations.

Gaundhar is located at an elevation of 3073 meters and is the base camp for hikers who want to reach Madhyamaheshwar. You will witness the holy merging points of rivers Madhyamaheswar Ganga and Markanga Ganga. It is a stunning viewpoint, never to miss. The temple itself is set against a beautiful backdrop of green hills and meadows.

Enjoy your another tent stay at the Gaundhar camp. Sleep well for the upcoming Kedar next morning.

Trek from Guandhar to Madhamaheswar

Today we will trek to the Madhyamaheswar Templer, which is often considered the second Kedar and also the fourth Kedar by many. Today is the hardest day of the trek as you will climb uphill all throughout the trek and gain quite a bit of altitude. It is an overwhelming hike of 5-6 hours covering a distance of 10 km to Madhyamaheshwar temple. The temple is 3490 meters in height and is a striking element hidden between the alpine trees of the Garwhal Mountains. The shrine is placed perfectly between green meadows and lush forests. After breakfast at Gaundhar, head out on your trekking adventure towards Madhyamaheswar. Start the day early so that you can reach the temple by lunchtime. The trail is quite similar to the previous day but it gets a lot steeper half an hour before the climb. As you climb towards the temple you will witness beautiful grasslands covered by pine trees. The trekking trail is well-marked there is no chance of losing the track. All throughout the day, you will notice breathtaking scenery at every juncture and it gets better and better as you keep climbing up. There are also fixed benches along the route to sit down if you get tired. Along the route, you will also spot some shops that sell snacks and drinks. You can reenergize yourself at these points. The final few hundred meters to the temple is a  flat walk and the view that opens up in front of you will leave you with a dearth of words. Once you reach the leveled path, you will reach the temple in a few minutes and you will feel quite satisfied and accomplished after arriving at the mighty temple. Madhyamaheswar temple is thousands of years old and you can get a close look at the ancient architecture. Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of navel-shaped Lingam here. Along with the main temple, there are also two small shrines, one dedicated to Shiva’s consort Parvati and another to Ardhanarishvara - a composite male and female idol of Lord Shiva.  You will halt the night next to the temple. The camping place is stupendous with clear sights of Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth. Have your hot dinner and rest for the night.

Trek from Madhamaheswar to Ransi and drive to Chopta

Today you will head to Chopta which is 50 km from Ransi. After visiting the temple in the morning we will descend to Ransi and drive towards Chopta.

Chopta is at a distance of about 50 km from Ransi and will take approximately 1-2 hrs. You will drive to Chopta via Kalimath. The road to Chopta is a serene ride rising slowly. Chopta is a popular tourist destination hence it is crowded. It is a very picturesque destination that is also a camping site for the Chopta Chandrashila trek. The beauty of Chopta Valley is such that it is often known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand’. It is also a great spot for birdwatching, often considered a paradise for birdwatchers with as many as 240 species of birds. The most prominent varieties are the Himalayan Monal, Himalayan Griffon, Himalayan Swiftlet, Hill Partridge, and Scarlet Finch. It is an extremely peaceful location to relax after a long tiring day. Enjoy your night stay in Camps/Cottages.

Trek from Chopta to Tungnath temple and back to Chopta

Today will be an exciting day as you will climb to the highest Shiva temple in the world. Located at 3680 meters elevation Tungnath temple is over 1000 years old.

The route throughout the temple is cement paved with stairs and grills for safety. There are various stalls at the base of the temple that gives the vibe of a pilgrim spot. One thing to note about the trail to the top is that it is entirely decored with rhododendrons that change their colors from red to pink to white as you slowly rise above. We will start in the early hours of the morning so that we can reach Tungnath while it is still daytime and you can enjoy the golden hour from the top. The path is 3.5km long and normally it takes 4-5 hours to reach. Today’s hike is going to be a little gruelling as you will have to make sharp turns around the mountains. Chandrashila trek has many hairpin bends and at the 10th bend, you will come to a flagpole section from where you can get a good view of the Chandrashila summit. Ravanshila connects Chandrashila to Tungnath. The temple is seen from a distance that stands right in front of a rocky cliff with infinite beauty around it. The entrance to Tungnath temple is at the 11th bend. Tungnath is where the hands of Lord Shiva are said to have appeared. Tungnath Temple also has a mention in the Mahabharata, according to which Arjun was the first person to lay the foundation of the temple.

Once you get back to the base, you will stay in Camps.

Drive from Chopta to Sagar village and trek to Panar Bugyal

Having visited the Tungnath Temple, we will head to Sagar village and trek to Panar Bugyal from there. Sagar village is located at a distance of 35 km approximately. Panar Bugyal is about 10 km away from Sagar and you have to complete the journey by trekking.

Panar Bugyal as the name suggests is a highland meadow that offers beautiful views of Mt. Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Nanda Devi, and Bandarpoonch.  Sunset is especially beautiful here as the golden rays of the sun hit the snow-covered peaks and paint the sky and the mountains in hues of red, orange, purple, and pink. Needless to say, it is an awe-inspiring experience.The best thing about the trek is that along with spiritual importance, each moment is taking you closer to nature. It is the experience of being in the wild. This trail is also a great route to encounter birds like Himalayan Monals, Green Bee Eaters, and Black Drongos.

Trek from Panar Bugyal to Rudranath and back to Panar Bugyal

Wake up in your cozy tent rooms and take a few breaths of freshness. Today you will hike up to Rudranath. At 2286 meters in height, it is considered as the hardest and the most durable temple compared to the other four ones. The journey to Rudranath will be life-altering. The natural rock temple has rock-paved pathways surrounded by dense rhododendrons. The climb is 8 km long and a moderate hike. Rudranath Temple lies in the laps of Himalayan meadows, where the face of Lord Shiva is believed to have appeared. Inside the temple, you can see a beautiful stone-carved face that looks almost lifelike. The rock-carved sculpture of Shiva wears a smile on his face, which seems to melt away all your worries. Rudra Ganga flows near the temple, adding to its mystical allure. If you want to visit the temple independently, and not as a part of the Panch Kedar Trek then you should do so in the Hindu month of Shravan, when there is an annual fair held in the region and the entire area lights up and the shrine becomes even more beautiful.From Panar Bugyal take the road that moves towards the ridge on the left. En route, you will find some boulders and views of the snow-capped peaks.  The trail slowly and gradually climbs up the ridge and after half an hour of walking, you will see the Panar meadows below you. The verdant expanse of the Panar meadows and the snow-capped peaks in the foreground is just the perfect scene to enjoy nature’s splendour and capture Instagram-worthy pictures. Continue on the ridge until you reach a section where there are huge boulders on the left and a green valley on the right. As you continue on the path, you will come to a patch where there are huge boulders on each side of the trail with the ridge in between. The greenery all around and the snow-covered beauty will strike you spellbound with their beauty. Continue on the gradually ascending mud trail and soon you will see prayer flags and bells in the distance. It will take about 20 minutes to reach the bells. Following this, the trail descends into the valley with bright flowers and shrubs all around you. After about an hour of hiking, the Rudranath temple becomes visible. 20-30 minutes into the hike and you will come across painted tourist huts, walk past the huts, and in a few minutes, you will arrive at the shrine. Once you reach the Shiva shrine, one of the Panch Kedars you will see the first real views of the biggest Himalayan peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and more. Rudranath temple is surrounded on each side by Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, Manas Kund, and Tara Kund. After some soothing moments at the sacred place, it will be time to go back to Panar. Enjoy your nights stay in tents.

Trek from Panar Bugyal to Sagar village and drive to Pipalkoti

Having done the Rudranath trek, we will be descending to Sagar village once again followed by a drive to Pipalkoti.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast and begin your journey downwards. The path is a little meandering and soon you will reach the grasslands of Lunti Bugyal, from here take the trail on the left and you will reach a stream in about 45 minutes. The mud trail is well-defined. The trail descends further to a wooden bridge in the forest and another beautiful meadow comes into view, which is surrounded by alpine forests. A few tea stalls line the meadow that serves tea and refreshments to the pilgrims, there’s also a shade to protect the pilgrims from rain and sun. The area is marked by a boundary of colourful flags. Continuing along the meadow, you will enter another forest cover and can witness the forest cultivation done by the villagers. Sagar village soon becomes visible as well. Continue down along the left and you will come across a stream just before entering Sagar village. After the stream, the trail becomes pretty narrow and rocky until you reach Sagar.  At the end of the trail, there is a bus stop, and crossing the road, you can see Sakleshwar Mahadev Mandir.

 From here, we will drive to Pipalkoti, which is at a distance of 30 km and will take about an hour or two. Pipalkoti is a small hamlet in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Known for its unique beauty and serenity, this place often serves as a rest stop for people visiting Badrinath, Auli, Valley of Flowers, or Hemkund. The hamlet is located by the banks of the Alakananda River and also offers a glorious view of the mountain peak of Nanda Devi, Mana Parbat, Neelkanth, and Hati Parbat. Your night stay is arranged at Pipalkoti.

Drive from Pipalkoti to Kalpeshwar and back to Pipalkoti

We will start the day with a hearty breakfast and we will take a ride from Pipalkoti towards Kalpeshwar Temple. From Pipalkoti, we will first drive to Helang Village from where we will visit Vridha Badri, one of the Sapt Badris. The temple dates back to the time when India was under the rule of the Gupta Empire. This temple holds a big religious significance. Lord Vishnu is worshipped here in the form of an old man.

 The legend says that Lord Narad once decided to perform penance on this site to please Lord Vishnu. Appeased by his prayers, Vishnu appeared in the form of an old man and answered all prayers of Narad. An idol of Vishnu was thus constructed in the form of an old man here. From Vridha Badri Temple we will proceed towards Urgam village.

Urgam village is a peaceful habitat at 2134 meters elevation from where you start walking to Kalpeshwar. The altitude so far will be the same as Urgam village. Urgam village is known for its serenity and peacefulness, a place where saints meditate. The entire scenery is revitalizing Kalpeshwar. You will slowly climb up in the diverse forests and animals grazing around. The trail is moderate with a lot of rest. You will be greeted by villagers at every step. It is a short hike to Kalpeshwar.

Folklore also has it that Kalpeshwar was the favourite meditative spot for sages like Durvasa and Arghya. While at the temple, also pay respect to the Kalpeshwar tree, it is believed the tree grants all your wishes. From Kalpeshwar, you will also get stunning views of Nanda Devi, Mt. Trishul, and Nanda Ghunti.  150 m behind the temple premises lies the ‘Dhyan Badri’ temple, although not one of the five Badris, this is yet another mystical experience for you. Many people visit Kalpeshwar temple because of the gorgeous views of the untouched mountain valley, the terraced fields of the villages, and the dense woods. After paying your respect at the temple and spending some time in the serene environs and we will return to Pipalkoti.

Drive from Pipalkoti to Rishikesh

The ride will commence at 6 am and you will reach Rishikesh around 5 - 6 pm. Your Breakfast and Lunch will be on the way at a roadside inn, exclusive of charges, after having your morning tea/coffee you can leave for your next destination. We advise you to book further travel after 7 pm.

Day-1: Rishikesh To Guptakashi

• Reporting Place: TTH Head Office, Tapovan Laxmanjhula at 6:00 am.
• Driving Distance: 180 km, 7-8 hrs.
• Breakfast and lunch on the way (exclusive of charges).
• Altitude: 1,319 m/ 4,327 ft.
• Overnight stay: Guest House.
• Meals: Dinner.
• Network: Available.

Day-2: Guptakashi to Gaurikund and trek to Kedarnath

• Altitude: 3,584 m/ 11,758 ft.
• Drive distance: 30 km,  1-2 hrs.
• Trek distance: 16-18 km, 8-9 hrs.
• Overnight stay: Guest house (Dormitory).
• Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
• Lunch is on the way (Exclusive of charges).

Day-3: Descend from Kedarnath and drive back to Guptakashi

• Drive To Guptkashi: 30 km, 1 hrs.
• Trek distance: 16-18 km to Gaurikund, 8-9 hrs.
• Overnight stay: Guest house.

Day-4: Drive from Guptakashi to Ransi and trek to Gaundhar

• Driving Distance:35 km, 1-2 hrs.
• Trekking Distance: 5-6 km, 5-6 hrs.
• Overnight stay: Homestay.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day-5: Trek from Guandhar to Madhamaheswar

• Altitude: 3,490 m/ 11,450 ft.
• Trek distance: 10 km, 7-8 hrs.
• Overnight stay: Village homestay.

Day-6: Trek from Madhamaheswar to Ransi and drive to Chopta

• Altitude: 1,319 m/ 4,327 ft.
• Trek Distance: 16-17 km, 8-9 hrs.
• Drive to Chopta: 50 km, 1-2 hrs.
• Overnight stay: Camps/Cottages. 

Day-7: Trek from Chopta to Tungnath temple and back to Chopta

• Altitude: 3680 m/ 12073 ft.
• Trekking Distance: Chopta To Tungnath, and return (Trek 7 km).
• Trekking Time: 7 to 8 hrs.
• Water source: none.
• Overnight stay: Camps and cottages. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day-8: Drive from Chopta to Sagar village and trek to Panar Bugyal

• Altitude: 2,350 m/7520 ft.
• Driving Distance: 35 km, 1 hrs.
• Trek Distance: 10 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Overnight stay: Camp.

Day-9: Trek from Panar Bugyal to Rudranath and back to Panar Bugyal

• Altitude: 3600 m/ 11811 ft.
• Trek Distance: 14 km, 8-9 hrs.
• Overnight stay : Camps/Homestay.

Day-10: Trek from Panar Bugyal to Sagar village and drive to Pipalkoti

• Altitude: 1259 m/4028 ft.
• Driving Distance: 30 km, 1-2 hrs.
• Trekking Distance: 10 km, 5-6 hrs.
• Overnight stay: Hotel.

Day-11: Drive from Pipalkoti to Kalpeshwar and back to Pipalkoti

• Driving Distance: 70 km, 3 hrs.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and Dinner.

Day-12: Drive from Pipalkoti to Rishikesh

• Driving Distance: 215 km, 7 hrs
• Breakfast and lunch on the way (Exclusive of charges)
• Rishikesh Dropping by Evening. 

Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents)  Click Here.

How To Reach

It is essential for everyone to arrive at Rishikesh (06:00 am)

Trek The Himalayas Head office, Tapovan Laxmanjhula, Landmark -Nainital Bank opposite Shiv Vilas Hotel

Once you have reached Rishikesh, TTH will manage the rest of your travel arrangements, if you have opted for TTH's pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.

Options to reach Rishikesh

• Take overnight train/bus to Rishikesh.
• Take overnight train/bus to Haridwar and drive to Rishikesh (35 min drive with normal traffic).

We always recommend going for the govt. Buses over the private ones outside the bus station as based on the experience we have found that there are very high chances of delay involved with private buses. Also, govt. Buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, just make sure to reach Rishikesh at least by 05:30 am.

3.  Board a flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport) (21 km, 30 min). If you're arriving by air, then come one day in advance.

If you prefer to travel independently to Base camp and don't want to take TTH's pick-up service, you can either take a government bus or book a private cab from Rishikesh. Your trek coordinator will provide guidance on how to arrange for the bus or cab booking.

Arrive in Dehradun Railway Station by 6:00 pm.

The designated drop-off point is Dehradun Railway station.

Please consider planning your subsequent travel arrangements after 8:00 pm.

The distance from Railway Station to Dehradun Bus Stand (ISBT) is 6 km, it will take approx 25 minutes.

The distance from Railway Station to Dehradun Airport is 28km, it will take approx 45min to 1hr.

TTH offers comfortable transportation through Tempo Traveler, Bolero, or equivalent vehicles. If you wish to upgrade your mode of transportation, please contact your trek coordinator for further assistance.

 1. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):

• All the Accommodation are in triple and quad sharing in Hotel, Guesthouse, camp, and cottage.

2. Meals (Veg + Egg):

• All meals while on trek (Pure Veg) as per itinerary.

3. Support:

• 1 Versatile base camp manager: handles communication and deploys extra manpower in emergencies.
• 1 Mountaineering & First aid qualified professional trek Leader.
• 1 Experienced high altitude chef.
• Local experienced guides (Number of guides depending on the group size).
• Enough support staff.

4. Trek equipment:

• Sleeping bag, Sleeping liners (if required), Mattress, Utensils.
• 3 men all season trekker tent (twin sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent.
• Camping stool, Walkie talkie.
• Ropes, Helmet, Ice axe, Harness, Gaiters & Crampon (if required).

5. First aid:

• Medical kit, Stretcher, Oxygen cylinder, Blood pressure monitor, Oximeter, Stethoscope.

6. Transportation (as per the itinerary):

• Transport from Rishikesh to Rishikesh.
• All road transfers by NON AC Vehicle like Mahindra Max Jeep, Tempo Traveller, or Similar to Panch Kedar sector & back.

7. Mules/porters to carry the central luggage. 

8. Clock room facility available at the base camp for additional luggage.

9. All necessary permits and entry fees, Upto the amount charged for Indian.  

1. Insurance (Mandatory).

2. Food during the transit.

3. Any kind of personal expenses.

4. Mule or porter to carry personal luggage.

5. Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charge or etc.

6. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusion.

7. Transport cost.

Things can be provided on demand and availability

     (participant has to pay extra for these things).

1- Satellite phone/set phone -   is a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cellphones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.

2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) -   is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.

3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) -  are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly. 

Cancellation terms:

Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip

Refund options

• 5% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (any trek, any date) to your friend

Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip

• 30% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 85% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend

Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip

• 50% deduction of trek fee
• 80% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 70% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch

Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek

• No cash refund
• 20% cash voucher for the same trip till one year
• 10% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (same trek, same date) to your friend

Note- If a booking is made using a voucher or discount code, the policies related to vouchers and discounts cannot be modified.

In the unlikely event that TTH cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:

While it is extremely rare for TTH to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.

In the event of such a cancellation, TTH will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.

The issuance of a voucher is not applicable in situations where you are required to descend from the trek for any reason. The trek leader may make the decision to send you down from the trek due to factors such as insufficient fitness level, symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), high blood pressure, exceeding the designated turn-around-time, health concerns, or if you are found smoking, drinking, or violating the rules set for the trek. In such cases, the provision of a voucher does not apply.

In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:

We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.

In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.

• Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch
• In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by TTH
• TTH holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice
• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers

Cash Voucher Terms:

• This is a non-transferable voucher
• The voucher cannot be merged with any other offer of Trek The Himalayas
• The voucher is valid for Trek booked directly with Trek The Himalayas in India
• To avail the voucher please use your register phone number or e-mail id
• All the other Terms of booking a trek with Trek The Himalayas are applicable to the voucher
• Trek The Himalayas holds rights to add/remove any of the Terms and Conditions without prior notice

Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.

Trek Essentials

PDF Of Trek Essential Download

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

How to register/create an account with tth.

To register with TTH, visit our website - www.trekthehimalayas.com and create your account. To create your account you will need to use your email address and fill in all the details, set your unique password and your account is ready to use.

How to book a trek?

• To book a trek with TTH, you first need to register with us and create an account.
• Choose the trek that you want to do and click on available dates.
• You will land at the login page, fill in the required details.
• Add Participants, choose add-on services click on the Pay now button, choose your preferred payment method, and make the payment. TTH accepts multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, net banking, and UPI.
• You will receive a confirmation email from TTH with all the necessary details about the trek, including the meeting point, transportation, accommodation, and other important instructions.

Made a payment but did not receive any confirmation.

please send an email to us at [email protected] or reach out to the numbers provided in the Help and Support section of your Trek Page. We will ensure that your issue is promptly resolved.

How to book off-load luggage and transportation?

To book services such as off-load luggage and transportation, you can find them listed as add-ons. These additional services can be booked at the time of your initial booking. If you miss booking add-ons during the initial reservation, you can log in anytime and easily book 4 days before the departure date add-ons through the platform.

If I have booked the wrong trek or date, how can I make changes?

In such a situation, please log in to your account and transfer your trek or date to the desired one within 12 hours or drop us an email at [email protected] 10 days before the departure date of the trek. After the initial 12-hour period, any changes will be processed according to the cancellation policy.

I am a beginner and confused which trek to book.

We recommend visiting our "Suggest Me a Trek" page. By filling out the form, our experts will contact you with the best possible trek options based on your preferences and experience level. Alternatively, you can reach out to us via email at [email protected] or give us a call using the numbers provided on our website for personalized assistance and recommendations.

How is family trek different from regular trek?

Family treks differ from regular treks by focusing on ease of difficulty, offering shorter durations for younger participants, Kid-friendly and easily digestible foods, child-friendly activities, maintaining a higher guide ratio for diverse age groups, and implementing additional safety measures for families.

Ideal treks for children.

Family Trek with Kids recommendation Only Dayara Bugyal and Chopta Chandrashila Trek.

Minimum age for children to trek with TTH.

Minimum age for TTH treks is typically 7 years, though this may vary depending on the specific trek.

Can we take children to high altitudes with their guardian?

Yes, you can take a kids to a high-altitude trek with a parent. Discuss with a trek expert before booking a trek.

Can we send kids without Parents/guardian?

Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download medical and disclaimer form

How to prepare a child for a high altitude trek?

Physical Fitness: Ensure your child is physically fit. Engage them in regular exercise, outdoor activities, and hikes to build stamina and endurance. Hydration: Emphasize the importance of staying hydrated at high altitudes. Encourage your child to drink water regularly, even if they don't feel thirsty. Proper Nutrition: Provide a well-balanced diet with sufficient carbohydrates for energy and foods rich in iron to prevent altitude sickness. Adequate Sleep: Ensure your child gets enough sleep in the days leading up to the trek. Quality rest is crucial for altitude adaptation. Educate on Altitude Sickness: Teach your child about the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and dizziness. Encourage them to communicate any discomfort immediately. Appropriate Clothing and Gear: Dress your child in layers to adjust to changing temperatures. Ensure they have appropriate trekking gear, including sturdy footwear. Positive Mindset: Foster a positive mindset. Encourage your child, and let them know it's okay to take breaks when needed. Medical Check-Up: Schedule a medical check-up before the trek to ensure your child is fit for high-altitude activities. Consult with a healthcare professional about any potential health concerns.

Kind of food will be served during the trek for children.

TTH takes special care to provide wholesome and nutritious food for children on treks. Here are some of the foods that are typically served for children: Breakfast: For breakfast, TTH serves a variety of options like porridge, cornflakes, bread, butter, jam, honey, boiled eggs, omelettes, and pancakes. Children can choose from these options to fuel themselves for the day's trek. Lunch: For lunch, TTH serves lunch which includes rotis, vegetables, rice, dal, and salad. The rotis are usually made fresh on the trek and are a good source of carbohydrates. The dal and vegetables provide protein and other essential nutrients. Snacks: TTH provides healthy snacks like fresh fruits, dry fruits, energy bars, cookies, and biscuits to keep the children energized throughout the day. Dinner: For dinner, TTH serves a hot and wholesome meal which includes soup, rice, dal, vegetables, and a non-vegetarian dish (if requested in advance). Children can also choose from a variety of desserts like custard, jelly, and fruit salad. Dietary requirements: If a child has any special dietary requirements, TTH can cater to those needs as well. For example, if a child is lactose intolerant or allergic to nuts, the kitchen staff can make arrangements to accommodate those requirements.

How to choose the right trek?

Choosing the right trek for a beginner can be a bit overwhelming as there are many factors to consider such as distance, elevation gain, terrain difficulty, weather, and time of year. Here are some tips that can help you choose the right trek for a beginner:

1. Determine fitness level:  Assess the fitness level of the beginner to understand their physical capabilities. This will help you select a trek that is challenging but not too difficult.

2. Choose a well-traveled trail:  A well-traveled trail will have more amenities such as signposts, water stations, and shelter. It is also safer as there will be other hikers on the trail.

3. Consider the length of the trek:  For beginners, it is recommended to start with a shorter trek that can be completed in a day or two. This will help them get acclimatized to trekking and build their confidence.

4. Look for gradual elevation gain:  Choose a trek with a gradual elevation gain rather than steep ascents. This will make the trek easier and more enjoyable.

5. Check the weather:  Check the weather forecast before selecting a trek. Avoid treks during the monsoon season or winter when the trails can be slippery or dangerous.

6. Research the trail:  Read about the trail to get an idea of the terrain, altitude, and difficulty level. This will help you select a trek that is suitable for the beginner.

7. Consult with an expert:  If you are unsure about which trek to choose, consult our trek expert Mr. Nitin (+91 70600 59773) between 10 AM to 6 PM (Tuesday - Friday). Mr. Nitin will provide you valuable advice and guidance.

Overall, it is important to choose a trek that is enjoyable, challenging but not too difficult, and suitable for the beginner's fitness level and experience.

Can a beginner choose a tough trek?

It is not recommended for a beginner to choose a difficult Himalayan trek. Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically and mentally challenging, especially if you are not used to the high altitude, steep slopes, and rugged terrain. Choosing a difficult trek without the proper experience, fitness level, and preparation can be dangerous and put you at risk of altitude sickness, injury, and other hazards.

If you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with an easier trek and gradually build up your skills and experience. This will help you understand the challenges of trekking in the Himalayas, and also prepare you physically and mentally for a more difficult trek in the future. It is also important to choose a trek that matches your fitness level, experience, and interest.

What is the age limit for a beginner trekker?

There is no specific age limit for a beginner trekker. However, it is important to consider your physical fitness, health condition, and personal interests before embarking on a trek. Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically and mentally demanding, and requires a certain level of physical fitness and endurance.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are above a certain age, it is recommended to consult with a doctor before embarking on a trek. It is also important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed during the trek to prevent exhaustion or injury.

If I am solo, can I join the trek in a group?

Yes, you can join the trek. We have fixed departure groups where you can simply book your trek and we will take care of curating a group.

How does my family get updated about my Trek?

Before you start the trek, it is recommended that you make all the necessary phone calls as during the trek you may or may not receive network coverage, once you come back to the Base Camp, you can reconnect with your family via phone once again. You can share your trek coordinator contact detail with your family members to get the latest updates about your trek batch.

What food can I expect?

At TTH, we provide wholesome and nutritious meals during the trek. The food is vegetarian and includes a variety of dishes such as rice, dal, vegetables, chapati, paratha, pasta, noodles, and soup. We also offer snacks such as biscuits, and salty, and dry fruits during the trek. Special dietary requirements such as vegan, gluten-free, or Jain food can also be arranged if informed in advance.

I am allergic to some foods.

If you are allergic to some foods, you need to let us know in advance so that we can make arrangements accordingly.

How safe is trekking with TTH?

TTH is a trekking company that prioritizes the safety of all its participants, including women trekkers. They have a comprehensive safety system in place, which includes a dedicated team of experienced and trained trek leaders and support staff who are equipped to handle emergency situations and provide first aid.

TTH also takes specific measures to ensure the safety and comfort of women trekkers. They have a separate tent accommodation for women trekkers, female trek leaders, and support staff. They also provide separate toilet facilities for women and encourage a safe and respectful environment for all trekkers.

Moreover, TTH has a strict policy against any kind of harassment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents. They have a designated Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to investigate and address any complaints related to harassment or misconduct. Overall, TTH has a good reputation for safety and responsible trekking practices, and women can feel comfortable and safe while trekking with them.

How TTH will manage if I am the only woman in the group?

In case you are the only women in the group, we provide a single sleeping arrangement. Also, during the trek, the trek leader will always remain by your side to provide optimum safety and reassurance.

How can I know that other women are in the batch?

You can reach out to the trek coordinator to inquire about the number of female trekkers and their respective states who have booked the trek. Please note that the trek coordinator cannot disclose personal details of any trekker. Once you've confirmed your booking, a WhatsApp Group will be created for all the trekkers in your batch. This allows you to connect with fellow trekkers before the trek begins.

Can I know in advance, which trek is led by a women Trek Leader?

While many of our treks are led by female trek leaders, however, it is not possible to know which trek leader is assigned to which group. But nonetheless, whether the trek leader is male or female you can be completely assured of your safety and security with us.

Can I trek with periods? If yes, then where can I dispose of the sanitary pad?

Yes, it is possible to trek with periods. However, it is important to take some extra precautions and preparations to ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience.

Here are some tips that can help you trek during your period:

1. Use menstrual hygiene products that you are comfortable with, such as tampons, pads, or menstrual cups. It is recommended to carry enough supplies for the entire duration of the trek.

2. Pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and plastic bags to dispose of used hygiene products.

3. Wear comfortable and breathable clothing that allows for easy movement and reduces friction. Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing that can cause discomfort.

4. Carry pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, in case of menstrual cramps.

5. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your energy levels and overall health.

6. Take breaks as needed and listen to your body. If you feel uncomfortable or experience any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

It is also recommended to consult with a doctor before going on a trek during your period, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication. By taking necessary precautions and being prepared, you can have a safe and comfortable trekking experience even during your period.

We provide proper disposal facilities for sanitary pad disposal during the trek.

How will the accommodation be during the trek?

We offer three person tents with twin-sharing for optimum comfort. A woman trekker will share a tent with another woman trekker and if you are the only woman in the group, you will be given a single accommodation for your comfort and privacy.

Are trek poles, Jackets and other equipment available for rent from Trek The Himalayas?

Yes, we do provide gears on rent. You can book it using you TTH account directly.

Who will be with us on the trek from Trek The Himalayas?

Mountaineering qualified Experienced and first aid certified Trek Leader, First Aid Certify local guide, Cook, helpers and supporting staff.

Who can not join the trek?

People suffering from Bronchitis, Asthma, High blood pressure, Epilepsy (got faints), TB , Heart problem or on higher BMI side are strictly not allowed to go on any Himalayan trek. Apart from this if you had any medical history, please let us know.

When it gets really cold can I consume alcohol?

No. Alcohol and smocking isn’t allowed while on trek. It is totally misconception that it will keep you warm. Your body need to acclimatize properly and for that eat properly and drink enough water; these things will keep you warm.

What type of toilet facility is TTH providing at the trek?

Toilet tents provide a convenient solution for answering nature's call in the great outdoors. Dry toilets, in particular, offer a highly sanitary approach. By digging a pit and utilizing mud and a shovel, you can easily cover up your waste. This method ensures cleanliness and hygiene while camping or exploring in the forest. 

Remember to pack essential toiletries to complete your outdoor bathroom kit and maintain proper personal hygiene during your adventures. With these practices in place, you can enjoy nature while also respecting it.

How do I manage the negative temperatures on the trek at higher camps? Do I need special jackets?

Layer Up From Head To Toe Eat Full Meals, never sleep empty stomach You can keep warmee (if you’re more susceptible to cold). Use sleeping bag in right way and don’t leave free space in sleeping bag.

For upper body – Thermal layer – T-shirt (full-sleeves) – Fleece T-shirt (for extreme colds) – Fleece layer – Thick Jacket/Down Jacket – Waterproof or Windproof layer (outermost layer, when it is snowing or raining) - For Lower Body – Thermal layer – Hiking pants (normal) or Winter hiking pants

Based on how warm you feel you can skip any of the above layers. Your outer later should be windproof since it is windy at high altitude. The idea behind layering is that the more insulation you have the less cold you feel, and instead of wearing a very thick jacket if you wear multiple layers, your body will be better insulated against the cold.

Do you provide crampon/micro spikes and gaiters?

Yes, we provide micro spikes and gaiters, if required.

What documents need to carry on trek?

Mandatory documents: 2 xerox of ID having address (addhar card/driving license), 2 Passport size photographs, hard copy Medical form signed & sealed by doctor, disclaimer form sign by trekker and high altitude insurance.

If we come prior the trek date, Do you provide accommodation?

No. We don’t but we can suggest you good hotel/Stay nearby pick up location.

Do we get enough water for drinking?

Yes, trekker must carry 2 water bottles 1 litre each so they can refill it at campsite for drinking and keep themselves hydrate.

What kind of shoes we should buy for the trek?

You should buy shoes which has these three features –Good grip, Ankle Support and additional water resistant layers. Generally, we advise Quechua Trek 100, MH 500 and MH 100.

How do we get back after the trek?

Your return transport is also included in trek fee if you're opting for service Dehradun to Dehradun ; we use Tempo Traveller/ Tata Sumo/Max/Boloero kind of vehicle.

What happens if some members of the team need to turn back before the summit?

No one is forced to go on. There is always enough staff to split the party according to need and regroup later at the camp. Most people have no trouble reaching the highest campsite. If some members decide not to climb the final distance they can wait for the climbers to come back down the same way or take a lateral path to the descent route.

What kind of help is available in case of emergency?

We always have a first aid kit close at hand. Serious injuries are rare. Porters will assist injured climbers to the base of the mountain and onward to a clinic or hospital. Kilimanjaro International Airport is very near Marangu Gate if evacuation to the US or Europe is advisable.

What is the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive?

The Panch Kedar Trek and Drive is a trekking route in the Indian state of Uttarakhand that covers the five holy shrines of Lord Shiva known as Panch Kedar. It is a challenging trek that covers a distance of approximately 130 kilometres and includes driving and trekking through remote and rugged terrain.

What are the five shrines of Panch Kedar?

The five shrines of Panch Kedar are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar . These shrines are considered to be holy by Hindus and are believed to be the places where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of natural elements such as hair, arms, navel, face, and matted hair.

What is the best time of year to do the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive?

The best time to do the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive is from September to October. During the monsoon season , the trek can be challenging due to heavy rains and landslides. In winter, the region receives heavy snowfall and is inaccessible.

What is the difficulty level of the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive?

The Panch Kedar Trek and Drive are considered to be a moderate to difficult trek , with steep ascents and descents, rough terrain, and unpredictable weather. It requires a high level of physical fitness and experience in trekking.

What kind of accommodation is available on the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive?

Accommodation on the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive is primarily in tents or basic guesthouses. Some tour operators may also offer the option of staying in homestays with local families.

What kind of wildlife can be seen on the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive?

The Panchkedar region is home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and various species of birds. While sightings are not guaranteed, trekkers should keep an eye out for these animals and respect their habitats.

Are permits required for the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive?

Yes, permits are required for the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive, as it passes through protected areas. Trekkers must obtain permits from the local forest department or hire a registered tour operator who can arrange the permits.

What kind of equipment do I need to bring for the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive?

Trekkers should bring appropriate clothing and footwear for trekking in mountainous terrain, as well as a sleeping bag, camping gear, and a backpack. Other essential items include sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a water bottle, a first aid kit, and any necessary medications.

How do I get to the starting point of the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive?

The starting point of the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive is the town of Sonprayag, which can be reached by road from the city of Rishikesh. Private taxis and shared taxis are available for hire.

What are the safety concerns for the Panch Kedar Trek and Drive?

The Panch Kedar Trek and Drive is a challenging trek that requires experienced trekkers and appropriate precautions. Trekkers should take appropriate precautions and follow all local regulations and safety guidelines. It is recommended to travel with a reputable tour operator and to inform someone of your itinerary before setting out.

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Pancha-Kedar Trek: The 5 Highest Temples of Shiva Uttarakhand

Panch-Kedar refers to five holy places of the Shaivite sect dedicated to god Shiva. They are located in the Garhwal Himalayan region in Uttarakhand , India . The five temples designated in the strict pecking order to be followed for pilgrimage for worship are the Kedarnath at an altitude of 3,583 m (11,755 ft), the Tungnath (3,680 m/12,070 ft), Rudranath (2,286 m/7,500 ft), Madhyamaheshwar or Madmaheshwar (3,490 m/11,450 ft) and Kalpeshwar (2,200 m/7,200 ft). According to the legend, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to atone their sins after the battle of Mahabharata. Lord Shiva eluded them repeatedly and while fleeing took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a Bull. On being followed, he dived into the ground, leaving behind his hump on the surface. This conical protrusion is worshipped as the idol in the Kedarnath shrine. Other parts of Shiva appeared throughout the Garwahl region as follows.

• Hump at Kedarnath
• Arms (Bahu) at Tunganath,
• Face (mukh) at Rudranath,
• Navel (nabhi) at Madamaheshwar
• Hair (jata) at Kalpeshwar

Once the visit is complete one has to pay homage to Badrinath to Lord Vishnu as a witness to complete the circuit which ranges from the Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary covering around 150kms by foot and 150kms by road through some amazing landscapes, wildlife and some blissful places. The trip starts from Rishikesh . We hired a Tavera for most part of our journey DAY 1 We started early morning from Rishikesh towards out first Kedar, Kedarnath. The route passes through 5 confluences of Dev, Rudra, Karna, Nanda & Vishnu Prayag and moves towards Gaurikund which is effectively the base for trek to Kedarnath. As of writing this article due to catastrophic floods in 2013 in Garwahl area, the trek route is now changed.

Early morning around 8 we commenced our uphill 13 km climb towards Kedarnath temple.

By the time we reached Kedarnath it was raining heavy and we were tired mostly due to lack of acclimitaztion coming straight from cofy sea level homes at Mumbai to around 13000ft. We booked a room at a small guest house run by Maharshtra Mandal and retired for the night. DAY 3 KEDARNATH TEMPLE [THE HUMP OF LORD SHIVA] Kedarnath, at the head of the Mandakini River, the temple is believed to be very ancient, has been continually renovated over the centuries. The lingam at Kedarnath, unlike its usual form, is pyramidal and is regarded as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Situated at an altitude of 3,581mts. Kedar is another name of Lord Shiva the protector and the destroyer.

We took the blessings and visited Adi sankaracharyas Samadhi behind the temple. It is beleived that the great sankara simply vanished one day behind the temple into eternal Samadhi and hence the sgructure commerates the great seer who re-established Vedic culture in India after defeating many contemperory religious schools.

Beyond Kedarnath a hard trek uphill to Vasukital a beautiful lake located 8km up was on our mind, but reasoning with the hard task we ourselves had to visit other Kedars we dropped the idea and moved towards Gaurikund.

We reached Gaurikund around evening had some light snacks packed our luggage and move towards our next destination Ukhimath at a distance of 43km from Rudraprayag , which was the base for our next Kedara, Madmaheswar. We reached around evening at Ukhimath at checked in at a lodge. For this trek we would require some guides and the hotel owner was a great chap who arranged two local lads who were very enthusiastic and as time went we developed a strong bond with them DAY 3 From Ukhimath there is a motorable road around 22.5km towards Uniana from where the trek starts. We started early morning and reached Uniana by 9. From here a dirt track starts which first leads towards a small hamlet of Ransi.

From Ransi the first major stop is Gaundhar. Many pilgrims who take Madmaheshwar pilgrimage prefer to halt at Gaundhar around 8km from Uniana and then move up again 12 km to the temple. The place to stay here is Kailash Tourist Lodge.

We decided to push on as much as we can and try and reach Nano village but we came to know that the village heads daughter had expired and hence we may not find accommodation. So we decided to reach Khadara Khal a small but beautiful hamlet just before Naano village.

We rested at Khadara for the night and had some delicious food comprising of local grown gourds and wheat roti. It was the best connect to nature with amazing night sky views from the room DAY 4 MADMAHESHWAR [THE BELLY OF LORD SHIVA]

We started early mornig from Khadara to a steep uphill climb towards the temple. One must be aware to carry energy bars during this trek or drinks like Tang or you can get exhausted pretty soon as we found out. Luckily just before hunger would get better of us we found some good refershments at the last settlement 3kms before the temple.We had some tea and the shops final set of cream biscuits before movig towards Madmaheshwar. It was almost 4pm and overcast when we saw the first glimpse of the Madmaheshwar temple The temple of Madmaheshwar is located at an altitude of 3,289 m. above sea level, on the slope of a ridge, 25 km northeast of Guptakashi in the Garwahl region of UTTARAKHAND state in India . Located at the base of Chaukhamba peak at an altitude of 3289 m the classic temple architecture belongs to the North-Indian style. So sanctified is the water here that even a few drops are considered sufficient for ablution. Kedarnath & Neelkanth peaks are visible from here, the entire ring of mountains associated with the life & times of Shiva. The stomach of Shiva is believed to have emerged at Madmaheshwar. We retired for the night at the Temple guest house. I was priveledged to interact with the temple priest an old man who informed me so much about herbs and its use. It was a treat. He further informed me about a unique hot water spring 8ks above Madmaheshwar named Nandi Kund which is a must visit. as so much we were tempted we resisted as we had much to cover but made it a point to return to this amazing place one more time. That night we slept with calmness and peace with the amazing experinece of this temple

DAY 5 We got up early and had a quick visit to the temple, clicked some group photos. We had decided to visit Budda Maheshwar a temple 2 kms above Madmaheshwar, more ancient an surrounded by beautiful meadows with views of mighty Chaukhamba

The pond water is considered holy and is used to worship the Shiva linga at the temple. One needs to remove their footwear on the outskirts , wash themselves clean with the water and then carry the water in a fresh unused vessel to the nearby temple of Budda Maheshwar and perform the worship

We had some good snaps around this very peaceful place and decided to move towards Gaundhar. We initially had decide dto halt but ultimately gave it a push to reach Uniana that very evening. It was an ardous 24kms trek but we finally reached Uniana by 6 in teh evening. From here we moved towards Chopta our base for Tungnath. We arrived Chopta late night around 10 and checked in a small restaurant come dormitory with very basic facilities. DAY 6 TUNGNATH [THE ARMS OF LORD SHIVA] Tungnath is easily accessible by foot from Chopta around 4km with good walkable road and hence it was leisure trek towards this temple which we welcomed after past 5 days of relentless hardwork which had left our legs battered and bruised. Within 3hrs we reached the Tungnath temple Tungnath is a pilgrim cum tourist hub unlike the unadulterated surrounds of Madmaheshwar. There is stark contrast in the attitude of Temple priest where as seen with commercialization thats crept into religious places. Rules are bent for money where we see many foreign tourist clicking weird pics with idols and sanctity of footwear and other basic rules are not maintained. Anyways this does not take a bit away from the grandeur and beauty of this highest Shiva temple of all Kedaras

We had some good snaps around this very peaceful place and decided to move towards Gaundhar. We initially had decide dto halt but ultimately gave it a push to reach Uniana that very evening. It was an ardous 24kms trek but we finally reached Uniana by 6 in teh evening. From here we moved towards Chopta our base for Tungnath. We arrived Chopta late night around 10 and checked in a small restaurant come dormitory with very basic facilities. Tungnath (3886m) is the highest temple in India. Legend has it that the arm of Shiva appeared here. Ravana, of the Ramayana, is said to have performed penance at this temple to propitiate Shiva. The high altitude temple is a Seat of Swyambhu Linga or the Lord Shiva Incarnate. The mythology has it that Lord Shiva was enraged at the act of homicide enacted by the Pandavas by killing their brethren in the grand battle of Mahabharata. Aware of Shiva's annoyance, the Pandavas built the temple to please Lord Shiva and for their own salvation. Others claim that the Adi Shankaracharya during his historic visit to the region had got it built. They cite the presence of Adi Shankaracharya's image in the garbha-griha or the sanctum of the temple. However, it also houses images of the Pandavas. Besides, the ashtadhatu images of Kaal Bhairava and Veda Vyasa are among the multitude of images there. A dark left-tilting one-foot high linga is the centre of attraction. The locals describe it as an arm of Lord Shiva. From Tungnath we decided owards Chandrasila peak. The Chandrashila peak presents the most beautiful views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpoonch and Chaukhamba peaks. Known as the summit of TUNGNATH temple, the highest of Shiva temples in all Himalayas, it lies at DISTANCE OF 1KM from the Tungnath temple. The 1km trek is ardous but takes one to heights of around 4000m presenting amazing views. At the top is a small temple.

Chandrashila literally translates to "Moon Rock" and is associated with a popular legend as a place where Lord Rama meditated after defeating the demon-king Ravana. Another legend says that moon-god Chandra spent time here in penance. The summit gives an 360degrre panaromic view of the mighty Himalayas

From Chandrashila we made our way back to Chopta to move towards our next destination of Gopeshwar the base for one the most hard treks to Rudranath the 4th Kedara

After we reached Chopta we bid adieu to our two guides of Madmaheshwar who had accompanied us till Chpta as they did not know the route of our next trek. It was hard for them to parta s they had completely immeresed with us as friends.

We reached Gopeshwar around 7in teh evening and checked in a hotel. We had a brief discusion with our host about our plans. This trek was tough as we wanted to visit Rudranath and Anusuya Mata devi temple the centre of Sakti . There were two routes one from village Sagaar , a short one and one from Mandal a long one which covered Anusuya Mata . We after much contemplation decided to make a round circuit from Sagar to Mandal. This would have required us 3 days and here we erroneously decide dto let our driver go as we thougt keeping the car waiting may add to our expenses and the next destination after this trek was easy we may save some money. This was our mistake as in Uttarakhand there are taxi unions so one cannot book a taxi from one area to another for single trip but has to pay return fare which becomes very expensive. So a first hand traveller trip is that if you are short on time and want to cut hassles of erratic bus services it is better to book one car for the entire trip which works out cheaper DAY 7 Our host was very helpful to arrange for a guide come porter for our trek. We started early mornig after some refreshments towards Rudranath . The trek leads one through farm fields before converging at a rocky dusty and steep trek routes which takes one through steep curves. Our target was to reach Panar Bugyal by the night but since there was a chance that the accommodation may be full we decided to stop at Lyuti Bugyal just below Panar

Due to strong heat and fatigue not much pictures were clicked as the focus was to reach Lyuti at earliest. We reached around 6 in the evening and were very tired. Due to very less accomdation facilites on this hard trek, the make shift lodges are almost full. I enjoyed the hot Kari made from besan and the local vegetable and roti that was served. At night I had an exeperience to sleep besides the host calf almost sharing bed with him DAY 8 RUDRANATH [THE FACE OF LORD SHIVA]

Early mornig with fresh legs we started towards the revered temple of Rudranath. There was an intial climb towards Panar Bugyal and amazing meadow with peacful scenes.

We enjoyed this atmosphere and moved ahead towards Rudranath temple which takes one through amazing scenic routes and finally crosses the Pitradhar, the highest point of the Pancaganga Meadow. It is believed that souls from either worlds cross here.

The face of Lord Shiva is worshipped at Rudranath temple in a natural rock temple as Neelkantha Mahadeva. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Neelkantha. The temple is situated amid thick forest at a height 2286 mtrs. The temple provides magnificent view of Hathi Parvat , Nandadevi, NandaGhunti, Trishuli and many other.This is the only temple in India where the image of Shiva is worshipped as a symbol of his face, a sublime, tender aspect of Shiva, unusual, serene and beautiful indeed to behold.Devotees come to Rudranath to offer ritual obeisance to their ancestors, for it is here, at Vaitarani river (the water of salvation), that the souls of the dead cross when changing world

The accomdation for temple is almost 500m down as people are not allowed to violate temple premises. Hence one must accomdate down as if at night if someone gets a nature call he may ahve to trek down 500m , not a good prospect. Unfortunately I was too keen to be close to the temple and decided to stay up which did not for best part amuse my friends

DAY 9 ANUSAYA MATA DEVI TEMPLE [2000m] After early morning prayers we decided to head back. This was a long journey as we had to first cross Naila Pass the highest point in the valley and then make our way through narrow steep inclines and dense forest towards Anusya Mata temple and reach Mandal which accounted to almost 20kms

Anusuya Devi Temple is a highly temple dedicated to Anusuya Devi, situated at an altitude of 2000 m above sea level, in Gopeshwar of Chamoli district Uttaranchal . The temple has great archaeological importance. It is believed that it is the only place where devotees circumambulate around the river as a mark of reverence. Anusaya Devi temple is known to help devotees in distress. Childless couples often take this ardous trek to Anusaya devi temple as a last resort to have a baby.

Just 2km ahead is the Atri caves, a very spiritual and specatcular site. Since we were very tired we decided to skip this and move towards Mandal once our oblations at temple were over. We had an added responsibility to arrange our transport ahead a mess we ourselves had got into due to our ignorance. We reached Mandal around 6 and with great effort got a transport back to our hotel at Ukhimath. That very night we decided to do an journey to our next stop Helang which served as a base fr kalpeshwar. For this we had to first reach Chamoli in one taxi than change to another which would take us to Helang. We reached Helang at around 11 and checke din a dormitory and went to sleep DAY10 KALPESHWAR TEMPLE [HAIR OF SHIVA]

We woke up next morning with a sense of relief that much hard work was done. We were also elated by the fact that there was a motorable road till Urgam around 8kms from where it was an easy walk towards Kalpeshwar. Earlier this 8kms were one of the most difficult trek. We had to book a vehicle towards Urgam and back. Just to point out the cost incurred by us for this trip only was equal to the car we had hired from Rishikesh and hence once again I put forth that book a vehicle from start to end unless you wish to travel local transport.

Located in Urgam Valley at an altitude of 2,134 m. above sea level, the small rock temple of Kalpeshwar is where the Hair appeared. It is a favorite location of meditating sages. Legend has it that the sage Arghya had performed austerities here and created the nymph, Urvashi. Rishi Durvasa is also believed to have meditated here under the wish-fulfilling tree, Kalpavriksha. One cannot circumambulate this temple as its inside a stone cave and it takes a trek of 50kms to do so

After oblations with ecstatic hearts we started our return journey towards Helang. On the way back we visited Dhyan Badri Temple at Urgam Village which is one of the Sapta badri's [Adi, Badrinath(vishal), Bhavishya, Yog, Dhyan, Vridh, Ardha]. Narsinha Badri is also included in this list by some. We reached Helang by evening and requested our Urgam driver to ferry us to Joshimath . We stayed at Joshimath for the night from where we were supposed to move to Badrinath to complete our circuit. After checkin in we visited the local taxi stand at Joshimath to book a vehicle to Badrinatha nd return to Rishikesh

DAY 11 BADRINATH We got up leisurely and had our breakfast as our hard trekking days were over cause badrinath was a motorable entity. We left to Badrinath around 11 in the morning and reached there around 2. Badrinath was crowded or maybe we were not accustomed ro see so many pilgrims due to the secluded nature of our treks. So we decided first go visit Saraswati river nearMana village, the last settlement on the Indian side of Indo-China border

After visiting Vyas and Ganesh gufa we moved towards Badrinath temple. we first checked in a guest house near the temple, cleaned ourselves and then moved towards the temple to complete our pilgrimage

Badrinath (3145m)located on the right bank of river Alaknanda is situated 297 kms from the holy town of Rishikesh. Badrinath is considered to be amongst the most pious of the eternal Hindu shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri . Badrinath is located in the lap of Nar-Narayan Parvat, with the Neelkanth peak(6,597m) overlooking in the background. Badrinath temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Sadhu and locals inform about scriptures which state that "Of all the innumerable sacred pilgrimage places in heaven and earth there is none equal to Badrinath nor shall there be one". The present temple was built about two centuries ago by the kings of Garhwal. The principal idol in the temple is of black stone and represents Vishnu seated in a meditative pose, and flanked by Nara-Narayan. Badrinath is also known as Vishal Badri and is one of the Panch Badris. The temple remains closed from October to April due to severe winter conditions. During this period the idols are taken to Pandukeshwar . Badrinath temple is the final stop to mark the completion of the legendary Pancha Kedar yatra, as being a only indigenious temple of Vishnu amidst the land of Shiva it bears testament or witness to the hard trek of Panch kedara

After completing our pilgrimage we had a sumptous meal at Saket restaurant which serves best vegetarian foods, the paneer butter masala is a dish to try. We roamed the market and retired for the night. Next mornig we had to leave early to reach Rishikesh by night. DAY 12 We had booked our return train tickets on the 15th day but since we completed our trip early we rescheduled our plan and booked next days flight back to Mumbai. hence it was imperative we reached Rishiesh that very night and started our journey early. On our way we decided to visit Adi badri temple located at karna Prayag

Adi Badri [A part of Sapta Badri], the first temple complex is an ancient shrine dedicated to Vishnu and is one among a chain of 16 small shrines located in the hill ranges. Seven temples of this chain were built during the late Gupta period (5th century to 8th century). According to tradition, Adi Shankara is attributed as builder of all the temples. The Vishnu temple is supposed to be the oldest in the region. The sanctum holds black stone 1m image of Vishnu.The image depicts Vishnu holding a mace, lotus and chakra (discus). Brahmins from South India serve as chief priests in the temple. It is considered to be the first [Adi] form of Vishnu in the region which is now moved to Badrinath in form of Vishal Badri and would be replaced by "Bhavishya Badri" [part of Pancha Badri], located at Tapovan . On shifting of Badrinath (also known as Raj Badri) to Bhavishya Badri, Adi Badri will be called the Yog Badri. The local people have a superstitious belief that in a few year the road from Joshimath to Badrinath will be closed by the meeting of the hill near the temple that stand opposite each other and that then this temple will become a place for pilgrimage. We visited all Prayags on the way to complete our journey of 5 Kedars, 5Prayags and 3Badri finally reaching Rishikesh that night. We checked in a small hotel and decided to hire a car to Delhi next morning for a flight back to Mumbai

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Madhyamaheshwar Mandir

Panch Kedar Trek, Uttarakhand | Complete Guide

Region: Uttarakhand

Base Camp: Rishikesh

Grade: Difficult

Distance: 95 km

Min Age: 15 Years+

Best Season: May – Oct

Trek Description

In the heart of the majestic Himalayas, where snow-capped peaks touch the heavens, lies a sacred pilgrimage route known as Panch-Kedar. The term “Panch” signifies ‘Five,’ and “Kedar” represents the ‘Mountain Lord’—a revered name for Lord Shiva in Hinduism. Panch-Kedar comprises five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, each representing a specific part of his divine form.

This spiritual journey is not just a physical expedition but a soulful quest that holds a special place in the hearts of Lord Shiva’s devoted followers. According to Hindu texts, it was the Pandavas, the valiant heroes of the Mahabharata, who built these temples.

Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Rishikesh, where our team will guide you through a scenic drive to the enchanting town of Guptkashi. From there, you’ll embark on a trek to Kedarnath Temple, the first of the Panch-Kedar temples. This 16-kilometer trek unfolds with fascinating checkpoints, offering you a chance to witness the divine “back side” of Lord Shiva. The day ends with a visit to the temple during the Aarti ceremony, providing a moment for spiritual reflection.

As your pilgrimage continues, you’ll retrace your steps from Kedarnath back to Guptkashi and journey to Ukhimath, gearing up for the next leg of your adventure. Your path takes you to Ransi Village, the starting point for your trek to Madhmaheshwar. Along this journey, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas and lush meadows, offering a tranquil atmosphere for introspection and devotion.

The trek continues to Tunganath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, representing the “hands” of Lord Shiva. As you trek through dense forests, you’ll connect with the natural world and find solace in the majestic Himalayan landscapes.

The spiritual journey advances to Rudranath Temple, known for its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking vistas. Here, you’ll pay your respects to the “face” of Lord Shiva, drawing closer to the divine essence of his countenance.

Finally, your pilgrimage culminates at Kalpeshwar Temple, where Lord Shiva’s “hair” or “Jata” is venerated. This serene temple, enveloped in lush greenery, provides the perfect setting for meditation and reflection.

The optimal period for embarking on the Panch-Kedar pilgrimage is between May and October, as the doors of Kedarnath open in late April. During this timeframe, pilgrims can access the main temples, as the weather is favorable and the paths are clear.

However, it’s crucial to note that from early November to mid-November, these temples are temporarily closed due to heavy snowfall, rendering them inaccessible. Remarkably, Kalpeshwar Temple stands out as the exception, graciously welcoming devotees throughout the year, making it a year-round spiritual destination.

Your spiritual journey commences as our team picks you up from Rishikesh, a vibrant city that sets the stage for this remarkable adventure. Enjoy a scenic drive covering approximately 180 kilometers, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan landscapes.

As you embark on this soul-enriching expedition, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring mountain vistas, with the majestic Ganga River accompanying you on your journey. Your path will lead you through several significant checkpoints, each holding its unique charm and significance.

Devprayag:  Your first stop, Devprayag, is a place of profound spiritual importance. Here, the holy Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers merge to form the sacred Ganga River, marking the inception of your Panch-Kedar pilgrimage. The divine confluence of these sacred waters sets the tone for your spiritual odyssey.

Rudraprayag:  Your journey continues to Rudraprayag, where the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers offers another spiritually charged experience. Here, nature’s beauty combines with spiritual significance, providing another opportunity to connect with the divine through the merging of these holy waters.

Agastyamuni:  Further along your route, you’ll reach Agastyamuni, a place resonating with the spiritual energy of Rishi Agastya’s meditation. It’s a site where the ancient sage delved deep into his spiritual practice, adding another layer of sacredness to your expedition.

Ukhimath:  Your path then leads you to Ukhimath, a town known for its spiritual ambiance and serene surroundings. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in introspection and soak in the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas.

Guptakashi:  Finally, you will arrive at Guptakashi, where you will rest for the night. Guptakashi holds its own significance in the Panch-Kedar pilgrimage. It’s the place where Lord Shiva concealed himself from the Pandavas, prompting Yudhishthira to give it the name “Guptakashi,” signifying the “Hidden Kashi.”

Embark on the true adventure as you set out on a 16-kilometer trek from Gaurikund to the revered Kedarnath Temple. As you traverse this scenic trail, encounter a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including indigenous species of plants and animals.

The trek unfolds with fascinating checkpoints, and as you ascend, be captivated by the natural beauty that surrounds you. At Kedarnath Temple, have the opportunity to witness the divine “back side” of Lord Shiva. The day ends with a visit to the temple during the Aarti ceremony at 8:30 AM in the morning and 6:30 PM in the evening, offering a chance for spiritual reflection.

Retrace your steps from Kedarnath back to Guptkashi, preparing for the next leg of your journey. Embark on a drive to Ukhimath, gearing up for the upcoming trek to Madhmaheshwar.

A scenic drive from Ukhimath takes you to Ransi Village, the starting point for your trek to Madhmaheshwar. The trek covers a distance of 16 kilometers and treats you to stunning vistas along the way. You will also pass through Gaundar Village.

The trek follows the course of Madhmaheshwar Ganga, locally known as Madhu Ganga. The day concludes with an opportunity to witness the Aarti ceremony at the temple, which venerates the “stomach or navel” part of Lord Shiva.

After paying your respects at Madhmaheshwar, trek back to Gaundar and then continue your journey to Ukhimath via vehicle.

Your next destination is Chopta, where you’ll embark on a short but challenging trek. The trail is adorned with the beauty of white and red Rhododendron flowers.

Tungnath , the world’s highest Shiva temple, is your destination, where you’ll worship the divine “hands” of Lord Shiva during the Aarti ceremony at 8:30 AM and 6:30 PM. Following this, you’ll move on to Sagar, your base for the upcoming Rudranath trek, a place named in honor of Lord Ram’s ancestors.

This day marks one of the most challenging yet rewarding phases of your journey. Trek from Sagar to Panar Bugyal, encountering three varieties of high-altitude grasslands known as Bugyals.

The trek takes you through Pung Bugyal, Lyuti Bugyal, and finally, Panar Bugyal. These meadows are adorned with awe-inspiring natural beauty, including dense forests. The steepness of the trek requires preparation, especially for beginners.

Today’s trek takes you to Rudranath, offering breathtaking vistas and excellent photographic opportunities. Pass through Pitra Dhar, a place of worship for ancestors in the Sanatan Dharma tradition, and Devdarshani, which provides your first sight of the Rudranath Temple.

Here, the face of Lord Shiva is being worshipped, and the temple is surrounded by sacred kunds (lakes) such as Narad Kund, Surya Kund, Saraswati Kund, and Chandra Kund. You’ll be captivated by the divine energy of this place. The day concludes with the Aarti ceremony at Rudranath.

Retrace your steps from Panar to Sagar village, allowing you to soak in the serene surroundings once more.

Your journey takes you to Kalpeshwar, the final destination among the Panch-Kedar temples, located in Urgam village of Joshimath. Here, you’ll worship the divine “hair” / ”jata” of Lord Shiva. Kalpa Ganga flows nearby, adding to the sacred ambiance. This temple is easily accessible, with just a 1.5 to 2-kilometer walk. Afterward, drive from Urgam to Pipalkoti.

Note : The road to Kalpeshwar temple is now open from Devgram, which is less than 500 meters away. However, please note that it may not always be in firm condition, so check for road status before planning your visit.

The final leg of your incredible journey takes you from Pipalkoti back to the place where it all began, the spiritual hub of Rishikesh. This marks the end of your transformative Panch-Kedar adventure.

In our view, if you plan to embark on a journey towards a sacred destination, we strongly advise against imposing any stress or burden on animals. Instead, we recommend undertaking the trek independently, as it will provide you with an indescribable experience that will leave an enduring sense of accomplishment for a lifetime.

What’s Included?

Price inclusion.

• Transportation : Transportation from Dehradun to the basecamp and back to Dehradun is included in the package.
• Accommodation : Enjoy comfortable stays during your trek with accommodation in hotels, guesthouses, or dormitories, offered on a twin, triple, or dormitory sharing basis. When camping, rest in spacious tents on a double or triple sharing basis.
• Meals : We provide nourishing and delicious vegetarian meals. Our meals are designed to keep you energized throughout the trek.
• Camping Fees/Permits : All necessary trekking permits and woodland camping fees are included in the package, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Trek Equipment : We provide essential trekking equipment, including dining tents, kitchen tents, sleeping tents with mattresses, and sleeping bags. Utensils, ropes, micro-spikes, and gaiters (if required) are also part of our equipment offerings.
• Mules and Porters : Mules and porters are available to carry central equipment, easing your load and allowing you to focus on the trek.
• Qualified Team : Our team comprises experienced and qualified guides, cooks, helpers, and porters who are dedicated to making your trek safe and enjoyable.
• Basic First Aid : A basic first aid kit with an oxygen cylinder and a helmet (if required) is available to address any potential health concerns during the trek.
• Expert Assistance : You can always reach out to our experts for any queries or assistance during your trekking journey. Simply contact us at +91-8089693825.

Price Exclusion

• Backpack Offloading : If you prefer to offload your backpack, an additional fee of INR 1050 per bag applies.
• Mules or Porters for Personal Bags : The service of mules or porters to carry personal bags is not included and can be arranged at an extra cost.
• Emergency Costs : Any expenses arising from emergencies during the trek are not included in the package.
• Tips : Tips for the trekking team are optional and not included in the package.
• Items Not Mentioned : Any expenses or items not mentioned in the inclusion section are not covered.
• Stay at Dehradun : Accommodation and meals in Dehradun on the last day of the trek are not included.
• Meals During Transportation:  Meals during transportation are not included.
• GST : A 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is applicable and not included in the package.

Things to Carry

• 45-60 Ltr Bag Pack With Rain Cover & Comfortable Straps
• Hot & Cold Water Bottle Like Borosil & Milton
• Energy Bar, Dry Fruits & ORS
• Personal Medical Kit
• 2/3 Full Sleeves (Non-Cotton)
• 1 Full Fleece T-Shirt
• 1 Fleece Jacket (Woollen Or Sweater)
• 1 Down Feather/Hollofil Jacket
• 1 Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
• 1 Pair Thermal Inners (Upper And Lower)
• 2 Trek Pants (Avoid Shorts & Denim Pants)
• 1 Pair of Waterproof Gloves
• 1 Pair of Woollen Gloves
• Woollen Cap
• 4 Pairs Of Cotton Socks
• 1 Pair Of Woollen Socks
• 1 Pairs Of Sunglasses (U/V Protected)
• 1 Neck Gaiters (Buff)
• 1 Waterproof & High Ankle Trekking Shoes
• 1 Pair Of Floaters
• Hand Sanitizer & Sunscreen Lotion
• Toothbrush And Toothpaste
• Toilet Paper And Wet Wipes
• Quick Dry Towel
• Lip Balm & Antibacterial Powder
• Moisturizer

How To Reach

The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 35 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Rishikesh. Several domestic flights connect Dehradun to major Indian cities.

The nearest railway station to Rishikesh is Yog Nagri Rishikesh Railway Station, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. From there you have to go to Rishikesh Bus Stand or Natraj.

Rishikesh is easily accessible by road and is connected to major cities in northern India. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from cities like Delhi, Haridwar, or Dehradun. Rishikesh has a well-maintained bus station, and you can find both government and private bus services that connect it to nearby towns and cities. Bus journeys offer an economical and convenient way to reach Rishikesh.

Difficulty Level of Panch Kedar Yatra

• Kedarnath:  Suitable for All Levels – This pilgrimage destination offers a trek that falls within the easy to moderate range, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
• Madhyamaheshwar:  Approachable for All – The trek to Madhyamaheshwar is characterized as easy to moderate, accommodating both novice and moderately experienced trekkers.
• Tunganath:  Beginner-Friendly – Tunganath is a great choice for those with varying trekking experience, as it is categorized as an easy to moderate trek.
• Rudranath:  Moderate to Challenging – This trek poses a moderate to difficult level of challenge, making it suitable for trekkers with some prior experience and a good fitness level.
• Kalpeshwar:  Easily Accessible – Kalpeshwar stands out as an easily reachable destination, offering a straightforward trek suitable for trekkers of all skill levels.

Best Time for Panch Kedar Yatra

The optimal period for embarking on the Panch-Kedar pilgrimage is between May and October, as the doors of Kedarnath opens on the 25th of April and are the first ones to open. During this timeframe, pilgrims can access the main temples of Kedarnath, Tunganath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Rudranath as the weather is favorable and the paths are clear.

However, it’s crucial to note that from early November to mid-November, these temples are temporarily closed due to heavy snowfall, rendering them inaccessible.

Remarkably, Kalpeshwar Temple stands out as the exception among the Panch-Kedar temples. It graciously welcomes devotees throughout the year, with its doors remaining open even during the winter months when the other temples are closed due to the snowfall.

This unique feature allows pilgrims to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva at Kalpeshwar regardless of the season, making it a year-round spiritual destination.

More Info of Panch Kedar Yatra

After the tumultuous events of the Mahabharata, the virtuous Pandavas found themselves burdened by a profound sense of remorse. Their participation in the great war had resulted in the deaths of not only their own kin but also their revered teachers and numerous others.

These transgressions against “ Dharma ,” the sacred code of righteous conduct, weighed heavily on their hearts, and they were aware that these sins could obstruct their path to “Moksha,” the ultimate liberation of the soul.

The Pandavas’ deeds during the Mahabharata, including using deceitful tactics on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, had not found favor with Lord Shiva, the divine preserver of righteousness. In their earnest quest for redemption and purification, the Pandavas resolved to seek the Darshan (divine vision) of Lord Shiva, believing that his blessings held the key to absolving them of their grave sins.

As the Pandavas embarked on their journey towards the majestic Himalayas, their hearts filled with both hope and trepidation. Upon reaching the hallowed presence of Lord Shiva, they encountered an enigmatic turn of events. The omniscient Lord Shiva, in his infinite wisdom, chose to conceal his true form and assume a guise to test the sincerity of the Pandavas’ penance.

Lord Shiva, the cosmic dancer, transformed himself into a Nandi, a sacred bull, and took refuge amidst the idyllic Himalayan landscapes. From afar, the Pandavas beheld the divine bull, unknowingly standing before their beloved deity.

Yudhishthira, the wise and noble leader among the Pandavas, perceived that Lord Shiva had concealed himself from them, recognizing that their sins were not yet fully atoned for. In reverence and acknowledgment of this divine act of concealment, he declared that the very place where Lord Shiva had veiled his presence would henceforth be named Guptakashi, signifying the “Hidden Kashi.

It was Nakul and Sahadev, the observant and perceptive brothers, who first noticed the uniqueness of the bull. Sensing the divine presence within this unusual manifestation, they shared their discovery with the mighty Bhima, the strongest among the Pandavas.

Learning of Lord Shiva’s transformation into a bull, Bhima, fueled by his unwavering devotion and determination, embarked on a quest to find and capture the divine being.

The divine encounter between Bhima and Lord Shiva, now in the form of the Nandi bull, carried a profound significance. As Bhima approached, Lord Shiva chose to merge with the earth itself, disappearing from Bhima’s sight. Yet, it is said that Bhima’s unshakeable faith and spiritual insight enabled him to recognize the divine presence that had merged with the earth.

The legends narrate that as Bhima sought to capture Lord Shiva, the earth yielded to his devotion, and numerous divine Lingas (representations of Lord Shiva) emerged from different points on the ground. These Lingas served as sacred reminders of Lord Shiva’s omnipresence and became revered pilgrimage sites, each enshrining a fragment of the divine essence.

In this way, the Pandavas’ journey to seek Lord Shiva’s forgiveness and redemption transformed into a profound spiritual odyssey, leaving behind a trail of sacred sites known for their deep significance and spiritual potency.

This tale of divine concealment, discovery, and ultimate revelation encapsulates the timeless theme of human devotion and the divine’s boundless compassion, a theme that continues to inspire countless pilgrims and seekers on their spiritual quests. The different places from where the different body parts of Lord shiva occurred are:

Kedarnath Temple – The Back Side of Lord Shiva

Our journey begins with Kedarnath, the first of the Panch-Kedar temples. Located amidst the breathtaking Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath Temple is perched at an altitude of approximately 11,755 feet above sea level. Devotees believe that this temple represents the “back side” of Lord Shiva. The temple’s surroundings are a testament to nature’s grandeur, with the Mandakini River flowing nearby and towering peaks as witnesses to the divine presence.

Madhya-Maheshwar Temple – The Stomach and Navel Part of Lord Shiva

Continuing our spiritual quest, we reach Madhya-Maheshwar Temple. This sacred site is said to embody the “stomach and navel” of Lord Shiva. Situated in the midst of lush meadows and pristine wilderness, the temple offers a tranquil atmosphere for introspection and devotion. The journey to this temple, surrounded by serene beauty, is an experience of spiritual awakening.

Tunganath Temple – The Hands of Lord Shiva

Next on our pilgrimage is Tunganath Temple, representing the “hands” of Lord Shiva. Perched at an altitude of approximately 12,073 feet, it is the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the world. The trek to Tunganath takes devotees through dense forests, offering a chance to connect with the natural world and find solace in the majestic Himalayan landscapes.

Rudranath Temple – The Face of Lord Shiva

As we advance on our spiritual journey, we come to Rudranath Temple, the sacred site symbolizing the “face” of Lord Shiva. The hardest trek among Panchkedar is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, this temple is known for its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking vistas. Devotees believe that visiting Rudranath brings them closer to the divine essence of Lord Shiva’s countenance.

Kalpeshwar Temple – The Hair (Jata) of Lord Shiva

Our pilgrimage culminates at Kalpeshwar Temple, where Lord Shiva’s “hair” or “Jata” is venerated. This serene temple is enveloped in lush greenery and a sense of spiritual serenity. The calmness of the surroundings provides the perfect setting for meditation and reflection. This is the only kedar which is always open unlike the rest of the Kedar’s and is most easily accessible.

The sequence of these temples mirrors the anatomy of the lord, allowing pilgrims to pay their respects to different aspects of his form. As one embarks on this sacred voyage, they not only traverse the rugged terrain of the Himalayas but also embark on a journey within, seeking spiritual enlightenment and communion with the Lord.

The Panch Kedar region is not only a spiritual haven but also a sanctuary for a diverse range of flora. Spring brings vibrant colors to the landscape, with brilliant red, pink, and white rhododendron blossoms adorning the countryside. Deodar and pine forests offer thick foliage along the hiking trails, adding to the area’s natural charm.

The rare Brahmakamal, also known as Saussurea obvallata and Uttarakhand’s state flower, showcases its uniqueness during the monsoon season. Higher elevations host juniper and birch trees, enriching the area’s biodiversity.

As you ascend into the Himalayas, alpine meadows come to life with an array of alpine flowers, including primulas, gentians, and anemones. The region is also home to Himalayan Balsam, known for its exploding seed pods, and Cyananthus lobatus with its bell-shaped blue or purple blooms.

Himalayan geraniums adorn gardens with exquisite pink to purple blossoms, while Anaphalis Margaritacea, also known as pearly everlastings, retain their color even after drying. Rudranath’s meadows are where you may find the striking yellow Ranunculus hirtellus, and Himalayan Bistort, or Bistorta affinis, thrives in the Himalayas.

The Panch Kedar region is a haven for diverse wildlife. The elusive Himalayan Musk Deer, found in the deep woodlands, is known for its unique scent glands that produce musk. The Himalayan Monal, Uttarakhand’s official bird, enchants with its colorful plumage and distinctive vocalizations.

Blue Sheep, or Bharal, frequent the high mountain slopes and serve as essential prey for local snow leopards. The Himalayan Tahr, a robust herbivorous mammal, roams the alpine meadows.

The rare and elusive Snow Leopard, representing the region’s pristine environment, has successfully adapted to the challenging mountain habitat. Himalayan Black Bears, omnivores, inhabit the forests near the Himalayas and play a vital role in the ecosystem.

Red Foxes are versatile carnivores that can be found at lower elevations. The majestic Himalayan Griffon Vulture soars gracefully on thermals, scavenging carrion and playing a crucial role in maintaining alpine ecology.

• Kalimath Temple, near Madhmaheshwar (Rudraprayag) : Located near Madhmaheshwar in Rudraprayag, the Kalimath Temple is a place of spiritual significance. It is dedicated to the Goddess Kali, and the serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for meditation and reflection.
• Anusuya Mata Temple, near Rudranath (Gopeshwar) : Nestled near Rudranath in Gopeshwar, the Anusuya Mata Temple is a sacred site. It is dedicated to Goddess Anusuya, known for her devotion and hospitality, and the temple’s location offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape.
• Gopinath Temple, near Rudranath (Gopeshwar) : The Gopinath Temple, situated close to Rudranath in Gopeshwar, is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It’s a place where devotees come to seek spiritual solace and admire the temple’s architectural beauty.
• Deoriya Tal, near Tunganath (Chopta) : Deoriya Tal, located near Tunganath in Chopta, is a pristine and serene lake surrounded by lush forests. It’s a popular trekking destination and an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts to soak in the natural beauty.
• Chandrashila Peak, near Tungnath (Chopta) : Chandrashila Peak, near Tungnath in Chopta, is a trekkers’ paradise. The summit offers panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks and is a must-visit for adventure seekers.
• Shri Markandeshwar Temple, near Tunganath Makku Village (Chopta) : The Shri Markandeshwar Temple, located near Tunganath Makku Village in Chopta, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s not only a religious site but also a place to appreciate the tranquil surroundings.
• Bansi Narayan Temple, near Kalpeshwar Temple Urgam Village (Joshimath) : Situated near the Kalpeshwar Temple in Urgam Village, Joshimath, the Bansi Narayan Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s a place of devotion and architectural beauty set against a backdrop of scenic splendor.
• Dhyan Badri Temple, near Kalpeshwar (Joshimath) : The Dhyan Badri Temple, near Kalpeshwar in Joshimath, is a sacred site where Lord Vishnu is worshipped. The temple’s location in the serene Himalayan landscape offers a tranquil atmosphere for spiritual seekers.

Map of Trail

The Panch Kedar temples vary in difficulty levels. Rudranath is considered the toughest trek among them. Kedarnath and Madmaheshwar are moderate in terms of difficulty. The easiest ones to reach are Kalpeshwar and Chopta Tungnath.

During the Panch Kedar Yatra, you can witness stunning views of various Himalayan peaks, including Kedarnath, Neelkanth, Chaukhamba, and more, depending on the temple you visit.

You will come across ATMs in various towns during your Panch Kedar Yatra. However, it’s advisable to carry sufficient cash or make transactions in Rishikesh before embarking on the journey.

Charging points may be limited during the trek, so it’s recommended to carry a power bank for your electronic devices.

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(To the Himalayas and Beyond)

Panch Kedar Trek

Journey to the five holy abodes of shiva, panch kedar story.

Panch Kedar Trek Itinerary:

Day 1 dehradun to karanprayag via devprayag & rudra prayag.

We embark on this surreal trekking journey intending to capture the most astounding confluences along the road to Karanprayag. The deep and serene waters of River Ganga accompany us till Dev Prayag. A short picture-break at this holy confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi would already blow your mind. It is the last of the five holy Prayags. The confluence is believed to be godly and thus is the name. The pious place has served as the meditation haven for Shri Rama and also King Dasharatha. The spot is now known as Raghunatha Temple that dates back to Treta Yug. A myriad of Hindus flock at Baitalshila, a natural spring at Devprayag. The main reason being the magical powers of the water to cure skin diseases. Further along, this topsy turvy drive takes us to Rudra Prayag, the Confluence of River Mandakini and Alaknanda. We shall explore this riveting confluence on the last day of our Panch Kedar Trek. Meanwhile, a theatrical story awaits you at Karnaprayag. The most tragic character of Mahabharat, Karna, is believed to have worshipped Sun God at this confluence. After being killed by Arjuna in the battle, Lord Krishna cremated Karna at the very site where he meditated at this confluence. You may even explore the one and only Karna Temple of India perched on a huge boulder at Karanprayag. Besides this, the Uma Devi Temple with its Swayambhu Idol of Devi Parvati is an iconic attraction too. While the mythology fuels your ecstasy, the sublime sight of the rivers soaked in varied hues of waters make you go wow. Our night stay would be at Karnaprayag.

Day 2 Karnaprayag - Urgam - Kalpeshwar - Urgam

We shall commence the journey after breakfast. Around 2.5 hours of scenic drive via Nandprayag and Gopeshwar brings you to the most beautiful Urgam valley. River Kalpganga and the terraced fields of apple, rajma and potatoes feel like an entirely different world. If you are visiting in mid-summer, the pleasant sight of swaying fields of flowers awaits you. A short hike with the views to marvel you is what you can expect on this beautiful day. Kalpeshwar, the first temple on our Panch Kedar Trek, is ringed by lofty mountains. It acts as an amphitheatre to gaze at the peak like Nanda Devi, the highest peak of the state. Additionally, the view of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti is also a delight to soul. However, the spiritual vibes of the valley are derived from the ancient legends. The folklore claims it to be the favourites of the sages like Arghya and Durvasa who meditated here. The main attraction, the stone structure of Kalpeshwar Temple, is quite an ancient construction. It can be reached through a narrow cavernlike path. As per the Panch Kedar legend, the tresses or ‘jata’ of Lord shiva appeared at Kalpeshwar. This fetches it an alternate name of Jateshwar Mahadev. Around 150 meters beyond the temple is another divine spot of Dhyan Badri. It doesn’t fall on Panchbadri list, nonetheless it is a different experience to visit. Our Panch Kedar trek is planned to let you experience each of the Panchkedars at your pace. Take the advantage of this and relish the views. Optionally, you can prefer to be teleported back in time while listening to the folklores.

Day 3 Urgam to Kalgot/Dumak (2,215 m)

Start your day by quickly basking in the warm sunrays while eating a palatable local breakfast. This is to energise you for the 12 km long trekking trail from Urgam to Dumak. This remote village is surrounded by refreshing waterfalls fed by mountain springs. It is an absolute delight to stay at this village oozing rustic charm. The trail is easy to moderate with short stretches of gentle ascents. You may take a fancy in chasing the wild butterflies and moths encountered on the way. Your fanciful trek amidst forest might be interrupted by rustling of leaves and cackling calls of langurs. The dance of the sun with the shadows makes this day’s trek all the more dramatic. This easy trail is your chance to experience the colourful flora of Garhwal Himalayas.

Day 4 Kalgot\Dumak to Pannar Bugyal - 3400 mts

This day starts with a scrumptious breakfast followed by a meditative trek amidst forest. Every step feels like a step closer to the almighty. Today’s trek is all about vertical climb, rocky patches and being close to nature. The trail is absolutely breath-taking. You must warm-up yourself with basic exercise before starting the trek to avoid feeling it as ‘breath- taking’ in literal sense. Take enough water breaks to keep yourself hydrated. This is essential as it is the first day of actual trekking. Also, be alert for the calls of birds around. You may spot Himalayan Monal, Black Drongos or Green Bee Eaters. The trail passes completely through a desolate forest route. Spotting of snakes, wild moths and owls is going to be a thrilling experience. Pannar Bugyal, as the name clarifies, is an open meadow from where you can see a clear view of Mt.Trishul, Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghunti and Bandarpoochh cliff. The sunset paints the peaks in hues of pink and saffron. Needless to say, it is an awe-inspiring experience for every trekker.

Day 5 Panar - Rudranath/Panch Ganga

Start after a breakfast with the refreshing views. Today’s trail is a mix of ascents and descents. The morning starts with an ascent to reach the ridge. from here the view of the lush green Panar Bugyal can literally leave you speechless. All the major peaks encircling the valley would be visible on and off. During Spring and Monsoon, the ridge welcomes you with vibrant wild flowers and shrubs on both the sides. The first important spot to cross is Pitradhaar. It is believed to be the point from where our ancestors’ souls have transcended to the other world. Further on the same trail falls Panch Ganga. This is the highest point of the ascent today. This windy spot is decked up with prayer flags and bells. You may rest here for a moment to take a picture or two. The total trekking duration till Panch Ganga is around 3.5 hours. The trail turns moderately easy as you may quickly dart down the valley from here. After a few stretches of ascents and descents, the Shrine of Rudranath is visible. This auspicious site is made more divine by the glistening peaks of Nanda Devi and Kamet. There is small stream called ‘Vaitarini’ near the temple which claims to have the ‘Water of Salvation’. The temple premise has a lot to explore for nature lovers. You must not miss ‘Suraj Kund’, ‘Tara Kund’ and ‘Chandra Kund’. Attend the evening pooja and spend the night under the sky crammed with stars.

Day 6 Panchganga - Anusuya devi via Naola Pass to Mandal drive to Chopta

Trekking route for today is the same till Panchganga. From this spot onwards, the trail goes down towards Naola Pass. During and post-monsoon, Naola Pass is literally a treat to eyes. With its lush green craggy ridge and views to mesmerize, Naola Pass is trekkers’ favourite spot. Not many pilgrims take this route and thus, the path remains exclusive for trekkers. Anusuya Devi Temple is a small unattended shrine. She was the wife of Rishi Atri. According to one of the mythological events, Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh visited Devi Anusuya to test her devotion. They came at the same spot in the form of three Brahmins. Her chastity and immense devotion made the three Gods transform themselves into infants. The same infants, Durvasa, Soma and Datatreya are now revered as saints in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Hence, the birthplace of these renowned souls makes Anusuya Devi shrine, an important place of worship for the locals. If time permits, you may take a diversion to explore Atri Rishi Cave. After this charismatic hike on a desolate trail, we shall head straight down to Mandal. From here, Chopta is just 1.5-hours-long scenic drive.

Day 7 Chopta - Tungnath Trek and further to Chandrashila (3,950 m)

It is a relatively moderate 2 KM climb to Tungnath, the highest Shiva Temple at 3470 metres. It is one of the Panchkedars where the ‘bahu’ or the limbs of the bull appeared. The temple is said to have been built in ancient times by the Pandavas. The black-stone temple structure is located just 2-kilometre below the mighty Chandrashila Peak. The views from here are as exhilarating as the divine legend of Panchkedar. Chopta- Tungnath trek claims to have the shortest approach path from Chopta Road. The cemented steps with 11 scissor cuts unravel the sight that would leave you speechless. Along the climb too, widening valley and the peaks greet at every clearing. The view of the Garhwal Valley clad in varied hues of Rhododendron flowers during the month of March and April is mesmerizing. The Tungnath range is rich in flora and fauna paving way to the establishment of the Botanical Station here. Chopta-Tungnath range also has a decent population of the birds like Golden Eagle, Himalayan Monal, Bearded Vultures, woodpeckers, Upland Buzzard, Ashy Wood-pigeons, and European Goldfinch. Among the animals, the main trail is famous for trekkers being accompanied by Bhutia Dogs all the way up to the peak. If your luck supports, you may encounter spotted deer and musk deer too. The summit for Chandrashila is just 1 hour or 2 kilometres of a mildly strenuous climb from Tungnath. It is in literal sense an amphitheatre to admire the mountains and valleys. From Chandrashila Summit you can see the snow-capped peaks like Mt. Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Kamet, Bandarpoochh, Neelkanth, Chaukhambha and Kedar Dome. Feel the divinity at the very location where Lord Ram and even the ardent devotee Ravana had once meditated to invoke Lord Shiva. Once you have had enough of this surreal sight, we shall trace back the same path to reach Chopta.

Day 8 Chopta - Deoria Tal - Sari

Deoriatal, at an altitude of 2438 metres, is a long trek of about 12-13 kilometres with descending trail from Chopta. The trail slides through terraced fields, blooming rhododendron flowers and dense patches of Banj Oaks. You can hear and may spot the birds and animals of Chopta-Tungnath Trek range on this trail as well. Deoriatal is a pristine location encompassed by soaring mountains. Mt. Neelkanth, Chaukhambha, Bandarpoochh, and Kalanag overlook this divine lake. Once upon a time, it was the bathing pond for Gods and Rishis. It has an alternate name of ‘Indra Sarovar’. You must take a stroll around this lake where the mysterious Yaksha appeared to ask questions to Yudhishthira during their exile period. You may take an opportunity to just sit and feel the serenity punctuated by the calls of birds. The beauty of this lake is impeccable in winters as well. After this rejuvenating experience at Deoriatal, you would hike for 3-km to reach Sari Village. Relax and prepare for the challenging trek of Day 9.

Alternatively if we want to make the day easier, we can drive to Sari from Chopta which will take less than an hour and proceed to trek to Deoria Tal in another hour and a half. On the consecutive day we descend back to Sari and continue our journey ahead to Madhyamaheshwar.

Day 9 Sari to Ransi (1 hour Drive) & trek to Madhyamaheshwar trek

An hour-long drive from Sari through tiny hamlets and cultivated fields takes you to Ransi. This is our base for the 16-Kilometre-trek to Madhyamaheshwar. The trail has varied transition from dense forest trails, swaying farms, Garhwali villages to finally the open meadows of Madhyamaheshwar. A plethora of birds including the endangered species of Himalayan Monal can be spotted on this trail. Musk deer are a common sighting too, thanks to the breeding centre located in the vicinity. The first of the tiny hamlets on the way to Madhyamaheshwar is Gaundhar. After 2 kilometres from here lies the Madhyamaheshwar Ganga or Madhu Ganga. It is a holy confluence of Saraswati Ganga and Morkhanda Ganga. After some similar chattis or tiny villages like Gaundhar, you finally reach an open meadow of Madhmaheshwar temple. The sturdily standing Chaukhambha seem to be saluting Lord Madhmaheshwar. The name signifies the middle-part or the ‘navel’ and ‘stomach’ that manifested at this place. A navel- shaped lingam is worshipped at the main shrine. The temples of Devi Saraswati and Ardhnarishwar are among the other shrines in this complex. The older temple is located at a little distance from the current shrine. It is known as Vridh-Madhmaheshwar. Nonetheless, the sublime beauty awaits you after a steep climb above this temple. The little shrine at the bank of the pond is famous as Bura-Madhyamaheshwar. It showcases the sublime vistas consisting of the peaks of Chaukhambha, Trishul, Neelkanth, Panchuli and Kamet. The flabbergasting drama shall not be missed at sunset which is as magical as the vibes here. We shall spend the night amidst the craggy mountains on the gentle meadows of Madhmaheshwar.

Day 10 Madhyamaheshwar to Ransi - Drive to Guptkashi

After a tranquil night spent at Madhyamaheshwar, now it is the time to pay our prayer to the main Kedarnath shrine. The same route down via chattis that you crossed on your way up takes you back to Ransi. Traversing through the splendid valley created along Mandakini, we shall reach Guptkashi. This is not just a stopover but also a place which holds a great importance in Hindu scriptures. As per Mahabharata, when Pandavas were searching for Lord Shiva, he was hiding at this very location. The name ‘Guptkashi’ is derived from this instance. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Vishwanatha and the main shrine is dedicated to Him. Right in front of the temple is the Manikarnika Kund. This kund is supposed to be an underground or ‘gupt’ (hidden) confluence of Ganga and Yamuna. The rivers are supposed to be flowing underground till they manifest at this conjunction. Today’s route would be glistened by the fluttering flowers of Magnolia or Champaka. These flowers are the speciality of the valley spread around Mandakini. Even the town Guptkashi has abundance of Champaka flowers. It serves as a decor for almost every home. You may shop or refill your wallet with cash at Guptkashi’s small market.

Day 11 Guptkashi to Gaurikund drive and trek to Kedarnath (3,584 m)

Start the long day with a crazy ride to Gaurikund from Guptkashi. The route passes through another holy confluence. Here River Basuki merges with River Mandakini to form the gorgeous Son Prayag. Ice-capped mountain views accompanies you throughout the journey. The motorable road ends at Gaurikund, another town associated with a fanciful legend. Folklore says that Gauri, who later became wife of Shiva, initiated her penance here. She was adamant to win over Shiva’s love. It was at this very place surrounded by hot-water springs that Shiva-Parvati’s love story took a turn. They finally tied the knot at Triyugi(Tirju) Narayan, located not too far from here. The trail is well defined with gravelled path to begin with and later the cemented steps. You would be accompanied by many devotees heading to Kedarnath on ponies. The trail offers splendid views of untouched waterfalls gushing down the valley to meet Mandakini. You will also walk through many of such waterfalls on the trail as well. Look for the dazzling rainbows here if it is a sunny day. River Mandakini flows on your right till the famous Bailey Bridge. This bridge was washed away during 2013 flood and is now reconstructed by BRO. The ascent starts from this point onwards. It continues till the plain plateau where the temple is located. By now, the shabby constructions of lodges surrounding the temple would be visible. Straight walk from here takes you to your destination. The Kedarnath temple, at an altitude of 3584 meter, is located right in the lap of the massive Kedarnath Peak. Enjoy the setting sun creating a scintillating backdrop for the temple. Take the blessings of the lord during the evening aarati and prepare for a cosy slumber.

Day 12 Kedarnath to Gaurikund to Rudraprayag

Get up early morning and devour the beauty that surrounds you. The awe-inspiring sight of Sumeru, Kedarnath Peak and Kedar Dome is the most divine thing in the Himalayas. Enjoy this most-visited pilgrim of Uttarakhand and get ready for the descent. Post-breakfast, trace down the same path, greeting the birds, shrubs and the gurgling waters of Mandakini. By noon we reach back to the base at Gaurikund and board on the vehicle for the return journey. A motorable road from Gaurikund via Guptkashi takes us back to Rudraprayag. One of the holy Panch Prayags, Rudraprayag, has numerous legends to tell. The name of this Prayag is attributed to the Rudra form of Shiva. He is said to have performed tandav at this Prayag. Another legend attributes the name to Shiva’s act of playing Rudra Veena at this confluence. The story of Naradmuni playing Veena at Rudraprayag is also well-known. You must spend the evening at the confluence to relieve all the tiredness of the trek. Apart from the mythological mentions, Rudraprayag was widely popular among wildlife lovers. The town has now modernised way too much with the ever-expanding construction sites. However, once upon a time, the wild tigers from Kedar and Tungnath Forest range roamed till Rudraprayag. One such man-eating wild tiger mentioned by Jim Corbett resided right here at Rudraprayag.

Day 13 Rudraprayag to Dehradun

Post-breakfast board on the vehicle and reach back to Dehradun/Rishikesh/Haridwar by evening and depart with the fond memories of the Panch Kedar trek etched in your heart.

Day 2 How difficult is the trek & what are the challenges?

Panch kedar trek gallery.

Panch Kedar Trek FAQs

What are the altitudes of the panch kedar temples.

The altitudes of the Panch Kedar temples are as follows: Kedarnath (3583m), Tungnath (3680m), Rudranath (2286m), Madhyamaheshwar (3497m), and Kalpeshwar (2,200m).

What is Panch Kedar?

Panch Kedar refers to the group of five sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. These temples are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar & Kalpeshwar.

What is Panch Kedar Trek distance?

The Panch Kedar trek distance is approximately 170-200 kilometers, covering the pilgrimage trail that connects the five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.

What is the best time to visit Panch Kedar trek?

The best time to visit the Panch Kedar trek is during the summer months from May to June and in the post-monsoon season from September to October.

What is the best time to do the trek and how is the weather?

What are the top highlights of the trek.

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• Transport support from and to Dehradun: starting from pickup on day 1 to drop on day 13.
• Guide and cook fees.
• Rent for camping equipment.
• Forest entry charges.
• Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment. Please note that personal luggage can be carried by mules and/or porters on chargeable basis.
• All veg meals starting from day 1 lunch to day 13 lunch.
• Accommodation throughout the trek. Tented or Guest House, based on location.
• Your designated hotels may not reopen by the time you reach there. While we are making alternate arrangements, do understand that things may not be as “tip-top” as our designated hotels.
• The gurudwara, Hemkund Sahib may not be open. While we are trying to take permission to go to Hemkund Sahib, if it does not happen, then do understand that the pandemic has put restrictions beyond our control.
• Transport to reach Dehradun from hometown.
• Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
• Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above.
• Accommodation in Dehradun.
• Personal luggage with mass not exceeding 12 kg per bag per person can be carried by porters/mules @ Rs 300 per trekking day per bag.

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• Treks in Himachal Pradesh
• Treks in Uttarakhand
• Treks in Sikkim
• Treks In Jammu & Kashmir
• Uttarakhand
• Himachal Pradesh

Panch Kedar Trek Guide 2023: History, Highlights, Best Time, How to Reach and Itinerary

Table of Contents

Numerous temples devoted to various Hindu deities may be found across the state of Uttarakhand. Five such respected sanctuaries where Lord Shiva is worshipped may be found in the state’s Garhwal region. These temples are collectively known as Panch Kedar (panch in Hindi means “five”).

The five temples (Panch Kedar) assigned in the strict chain of importance to be followed for pilgrimage for worship are the Kedarnath Temple at an altitude of 3,583 m, the Tungnath Temple at 3,680 m, the Rudranath Temple at 3,559 m, the Madhyamaheshwar Temple or Madmaheshwar at 3,490m and the Kalpeshwar Temple at 2,200m. 

The primary temple is the Kedarnath, which is one of the four Chota Char Dhams (meaning, “the little four abodes/seats”) or pilgrimage destinations in the Garhwal Himalayas; the other three dhams are Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri. Kedarnath is also considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. After Kedar – ‘the local name for Shiva’, the Garhwal region is also known as the Kedar-Khanda.

The Shaiva sect has many more symbols and iconic forms in the region than the Vaishnava cult. The western section of this area, which comprises half of Chamoli district is known as Kedar-Kshetra or Kedar mandala and has all five temples that comprise the Panch Kedar.

History of Panch Kedar Trek

The word Kedar refers to a natural geological formation or glacial bank. The Pandavas, the protagonists of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, are mentioned in the most renowned mythology concerning Panch Kedar.

In the legendary Kurukshetra battle, the Pandavas conquered and murdered their cousins, the Kauravas. They intended to atone for the sins of fratricide and the murder of Brahmins during the conflict. As a result, they handed over the reins of their country to their descendants and outlined in pursuit of the deity Shiva and his blessings.

But, because he was severely upset by the Mahabharata War, Shiva disguised himself as a Nandi and fled to the Garhwal area to avoid the Pandavas.While looking for Shiva, Pandavas noticed a bull grazing near Guptakashi. Bhima identified the bull as Shiva right away.

Bhima grabbed the bull by the tail and rear legs. However, the bull-formed Shiva vanished into the earth, only to emerge in pieces, with the hump raising in Kedarnath, the arms emerging in Tunganath, the nabhi and stomach appearing in Madhyamaheshwar, the face appearing in Rudranath, and the hair and head appearing in Kalpeshwar.

The Pandavas, overjoyed with Shiva’s return in five different forms, constructed temples in each of the five locations to honor and worship Shiva. As a result, the Pandavas were cleansed of their misdeeds.

Highlights of Panch Kedar Trek

• Seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings in his five highest terrestrial abodes, Kalpeshwar, Rudranath, Tungnath, Kedarnath, and Madhya Maheshwar.
• Experience the splendor of the high-altitude grasslands of Rudranath, Panar, and Chopta.
• Observe the lovely countryside, which is embellished with blossoming flowers, dense woodland, and streams.
• Take advantage of the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rustic beauty of distant settlements.
• IInteract with their naive and industrious residents and learn how they live a joyful existence in the absence of appropriate technology.
• Enjoy camping beneath the stars amid stunning scenery.

Best Season to Visit Panch Kedar Trek

Panch Kedar Yatra is best done between May and October. All of Panch Kedar’s temples are only open for 6 months a year, from the end of April to the end of October. The temples are unreachable throughout the winter owing to heavy rain and snowfall.

In the winter, the sanctified symbolic of Lord Shiva in Kedarnath is worshipped in Ukhimath’s Omkareshwar temple, the symbolic idol of Tungnath is worshipped at Mokumath, the Rudranath symbolic image is carried to Gopeshwar, and the Madhyamaheshwar symbolic idol is cherished at Ukhimath. Only Kalpeshwar remains open all year.

Location of Panch Kedar Trek

The five temples are located in the Upper Himalayan areas, with snow-covered hill ranges of the Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, and Neelkanth peaks in the background.

Kedarnath lies in the Mandakini River valley, whereas the other temples are on the highlands between the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers. All of the temples are in distant locations, and except Rudranath, the other four are still inaccessible by motorable roads.

The settlement of Kedarnath is located on the edge of the Kedarnath mountain slope in the remote northern Garhwal Himalayas. The streams that run in the valley behind the Kedarnath temple include the Dudhganga, Madhuganga, Swargaduari, and Saraswathi.

Urgam Valley has apple orchards, terraced fields where potato is grown extensively. Kalp Ganga River, a tributary of the Alaknanda, flows through this valley

How to Reach Panch Kedar Trek

Jolly Grant Airport serves Dehradun and is situated around 48 kilometers from Haridwar. There is a regular flight from Delhi to Dehradun; if arriving by flight, arrive one day early in Haridwar.

Haridwar is well-connected by train to other key cities like Delhi, Mussoorie, Mumbai, Varanasi, Lucknow, and Kolkata.

• DDN NZM AC EXPRESS departs from Delhi (2205)
• Doon Express departs from Kolkata (13009)
• From Mumbai, take the Dehradun Express (19019). 
• From Chennai, take the Dehradun Express (19019). (12687)

From Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate, there is a frequent bus service to Haridwar. From ISBT Kashmere Gate, try to ride only government buses. Private buses operate from outside ISBT and are untrustworthy. Buses usually drop you off at the Haridwar bus station. You must then proceed to Haridwar Railway Station.

Itinerary of Panch Kedar Trek

Day 1 – haridwar to joshimath (altitude: 6724 ft, 256 km drive, approx 10 hours).

Joshimath is the starting point for the spiritual Panch Kedar trek. Joshimath is a town in Uttarkashi that has recently become a tourist destination. Buses run frequently from Haridwar and Dehradun to Joshimath. 

This long ride is breathtaking, with several tourist sights along the route. The most well-known is the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, which subsequently merged to become the Ganga. After the exhausting voyage, relax in a hotel room.

Day 2 – Joshimath to Kalpeshwar back to Urgam Village

You will first ride from Joshimath to Urgam village, which is 19 kilometers away. Urgam village is a serene environment at 2134 meters altitude. From here, you may begin your journey to Kalpeshwar.

So far, the altitude would be the same as Urgam village. Saints meditate at Urgam hamlet, which is noted for its tranquillity. Kalpeshwar revitalizes the entire landscape. You will gradually ascend through the different woodlands with animals grazing around you. The path is easy to follow and has plenty of rest stops. Villagers will greet you at every turn.

It will be a one-of-a-kind experience to eat lunch in such a basic setting. Enjoy your hike from now on, and make a stop at one of Urgam’s culturally rich homestays.

Day 3 – Urgam to Kalgot (2400m., 12 km. Trek)

Begin your next day with a nutritious breakfast and bright sunlight. Urgam is well-known for its potato and apple farms, and there are several large fields to be seen. Just don’t infringe on their property unless you have permission.

You will be pleasantly delighted to wander across the rich valley as you begin your day. The next destination is Kalgot, which is a 12-kilometer trek from Urgam but is not strenuous. It is a great secluded environment at a height of 2400 meters, with several waterfalls around it.

They are visible as you go through the deep woodlands. You’ll notice that there will be miniature habitats that greet you now and then. This is your greatest chance to communicate with them and learn about their culture and location. Spend the night in a traditional Garhwali homestay.

Day 4 – Kalgot to Toli/Panar Bugyal (14 km. trek)

A fresh day awaits to be filled with new adventures. Today’s hike will be more difficult than yesterday’s. The track is 14 kilometers long, with the entire trip taking place under the shade of verdant trees. There will be plenty of farmland and rock trails and lovely pastures waiting for you.

The finest part about the walk is that, in addition to spiritual significance, each moment brings you closer to nature. It is the sensation of being in the wilderness. On the fourth day, you will have a true adventure experience by sleeping in tents under the dark sky, surrounded by the refreshing wind of the woodlands.

Day 5 – Toli/Panar Bugyal to Rudranath and return (2286m., 8 km. trek Each Side)

Take a few deep breaths of fresh air as you wake up in your cozy tent accommodations. You will climb up to Rudranath today. With a height of 2286 meters, it is considered the most difficult among the four temples. However, the voyage will be life-changing.

The natural rock temple is encircled by lush rhododendrons and has rock-paved paths. The hike is 8 kilometers long and moderate. When you get to the Shiva temple, the first of the Panch Kedar, you will have your first true views of the highest Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, and others.

It will be time to return to Panar after some relaxing hours at the hallowed site. Have a good time in tents with joyful expressions.

Day 6 – Toli/Panar Bugyal to Sagar Village (14 km. Trek) and drive to Chopta (2900 m., 32 km.)

It’s time to go on to the second Kedar, Tungnath. To go to Tungnath, you must first climb 14 kilometers to Sagar village. Then you will cycle 32 kilometers to Chopta village.

The trip to Sagar village takes you through lush woods and various pastures. The route to Chopta from Sagar habitat is a peaceful journey that gradually ascends. Because Chopta is a famous tourist location, it is congested.

It also serves as a camping area for the Chopta Chandrashila trek. It is a really pleasant place to unwind after a hard and exhausting day. Have a good time in your tent for the night.

Day 7 – Chopta to Tungnath(3680 m.) to Chandrashila and back to Chopta, (8 km. Trek)

Today will be an amazing day since you will be climbing to the world’s tallest Shiva temple. Tungnath temple is about 1000 years old and is located at a height of 3680 meters.

The path through the temple is made of concrete and is equipped with stairwells and grills for safety. The route to the top is fully decorated with rhododendrons, which change colors from red to pink to white as you gently ascend.

The walk is 3.5 kilometers long and generally takes 4-5 hours to complete. From afar, the temple may be seen standing in front of a cliff, surrounded by endless beauty. You may also climb up to Chandrashila, a well-known hiking destination.

This is the highest point to take a glimpse of the ocean of distant pinnacles. When you return to the base, you will sleep in a tent.

Day 8 – Chopta to Ransi (1765 m.,52 km. drive) and trek to Gaundhar (3073 m, 7 Km)

Another exciting day has passed, and it is time to proceed to the third Kedar. The excursion begins with a 52-kilometre drive from Chopta to Ransi through Kalimath. Then it’s a 7-kilometre hike to Gaundhar. The mud and scree path.

Gaundhar, at a height of 3073 metres, serves as the starting point for hikers attempting to climb Madhyamaheshwar. You will witness the sacred confluence of the rivers Ganga and Markanga. It is a breathtaking vantage point that should not be missed.

Have another enjoyable tent stay at the Gaundhar camp. Rest up for the impending Kedar the next morning.

Day 9 – Gaundhar to Madhyamaheshwar (3490 m., 10 km.)

This new day delivers the third of the five Kedars. The climb to Madhyamaheshwar temple takes 5-6 hours and covers a distance of 10 kilometres. The temple is located at 3490 metres in elevation and is a spectacular element buried among the alpine forests of the Garhwal mountains. The temple is nicely situated amid lush woodlands and lovely meadows.

The walking path is properly defined, so there is little risk of getting lost. When you get to the huge temple, you will be satisfied. Your night resting point is near the temple.

The camping area is breathtaking, with views of Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth. Have your delicious meal and then retire to your tents.

Read more: Bhrigu Lake Trek

Day 10 – Madhaymaheshwar to Ransi (Trek down 17 Km) and drive to Guptkashi (1319 m, 35 Km drive)

We’re nearing the finish of the Panch Kedar yatra journey. Today we will travel 35 kilometres from Ransi to Guptkashi. Guptkashi features a temple devoted to Lord Shiva, similar to Vishwanath of Kashi, thus the name.

You will first retrace your route back to Ransi and then walk to Guptkashi. The trek is fantastic, with beautiful woodlands and a peaceful atmosphere. Following full meals, you will stay at motels.

Day 11 – Guptkashi to Gaurikund (15 km. drive) to trek to Kedarnath (3584 m., 16 km. Trek)

Kedarnath, and by far the most awaited destination, will eventually come to your favor. Kedarnath needs no explanation; it is one of the most frequented Char Dhams and a world-renowned pilgrimage destination.

Kedarnath implies opulence, heart-warming elegance surrounded by snow-capped peaks and massive glaciers. Every minute, you can see the rushing river running down the valley and hundreds of people wandering up and down.

You will stay overnight in the lap of the Himalayas, chanting OM and receiving Shiva’s blessing for a bright future. 

Day 12 – Kedarnath to Gaurikund (16 km. Trek) and Gaurikund to Guptakashi (30 km. Drive)

The return route to home begins from Kedarnath, the last destination of the Panch Kedar trek. Get up early and prepare to see the exciting morning Pooja at Kedarnath temple.

Gaurikund will be your next attraction. The body of water is well – known for its hot springs. There is a well-known Parvati temple. From Gaurikund, you will travel to Guptkashi, where you will spend your final night in the highlands.

Day 13 – Guptkashi to Haridwar / Rishikesh / Dehradun

And the trip comes to an end here when you wake up on the final day of the Panch Kedar Yatra. Return home with a plethora of spiritual and exciting recollections.

Read more: Roopkund Trek

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) for Panch Kedar Trek

Which is the best time to go to panch kedar trek.

May and October is the best month to go Panch Kedar trek. During this time all the five temples of the Panch Kedar yatra is accessible.

How long is the whole trek to Panch Kedar?

The whole trek to panch Kedar lasts for 13 days. Including the day you arrive at Haridwar and leave Haridwar, the Panch Kedar trek should be over by 15 days.

Where is Panch Kedar Trek located?

All of these Kedars are located in the western Uttarakhand or the Chamoli district.

What are the five temples of Panch Kedar Yatra?

Collectively known as Panch Kedar (panch in Hindi means five), these temples are Kedarnath, Madhmaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, Kalpnath. Panch Kedar trek comprises all these five Kedars.

Which is the highest point in the Panch Kedar trek?

The highest altitude of the Panch Kedar trek is 1300 ft.

Which Panch Kedar temple has the toughest trek?

Rudranath Temple’s trek is the toughest among all five Panch Kedar.

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Panch Kedar Yatra

Home » Panch Kedar Yatra

TREK DIFFICULTY

Easy-Moderate

TREK DURATION

HIGHEST ALTITUDE

TREK DISTANCE

8 to 70 years

PANCHKEDAR YATRA

“Where faith meets the heavens.”

Panch Kedar refers to a group of five Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. These temples hold great significance in Hindu mythology and are considered sacred pilgrimage sites for devotees of Lord Shiva.

The five temples that make up Panch Kedar are:

Kedarnath: Located at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet), Kedarnath Temple is the most famous among the Panch Kedar temples. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva absolved himself of the sin of killing the demon Gajasura in the form of a bull.

Madhmaheshwar: Positioned at an altitude of 3,497 meters (11,473 feet), Madhmaheshwar Temple is believed to be the place where the navel of Lord Shiva appeared after he vanished at Kedarnath.

Tungnath: Situated at an elevation of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), Tungnath Temple is the highest Shiva temple in the world. It is believed to be the place where the arms of Lord Shiva appeared after he vanished at Kedarnath.

Rudranath: Located at an altitude of 2,286 meters (7,500 feet), Rudranath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s face. It is believed to be the place where the face of Lord Shiva appeared after he vanished at Kedarnath.

Kalpeshwar: Situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters (7,217 feet), Kalpeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his matted-haired form. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Jata (matted hair).

These temples are not easily accessible and require significant trekking, making the journey to Panch Kedar both physically challenging and spiritually rewarding for pilgrims. The serene natural beauty surrounding these temples adds to the allure of the pilgrimage experience.

Kedarnath, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Hinduism, holds immense significance for devotees of Lord Shiva.

Kedarnath is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. It stands at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. The temple is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit and is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, representing an iconic representation of Lord Shiva.

Legend has it that Kedarnath is the place where Lord Shiva, in the form of a bull (Nandi), manifested to Pandavas after the Kurukshetra war to absolve them of their sins. The temple’s architecture is simple yet magnificent, constructed from large stone slabs and adorned with intricate carvings.

The pilgrimage to Kedarnath is arduous but spiritually fulfilling, often involving trekking through rugged terrain and braving harsh weather conditions. Despite its challenging accessibility, thousands of devotees undertake the journey every year to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and experience the divine aura of this sacred place.

केदारनाथः हिमालये स्थितः पवित्रः हिन्दूनां मन्दिरः शिवस्यार्चायां निरतः। इदं गर्ह्वालहिमालये उत्तराखण्डे स्थितं त्रियामात्मकं पर्वतस्य शिखरे स्थितम्। तस्य ऊँचताः त्रयस्त्रिंशत् अडीषु गर्ह्वालान्नाम्नाम्बूमिकायामास्ति।

केदारनाथस्य महत्त्वं केदारपुराणे अधिकं उपपादितं भवति, यथा – केदारनाथं यदि यात्रा करोति मनुष्यः, तस्य पुण्यं सर्वपापैः प्रमुच्यते। केदारनाथस्य महिमा परमं श्रेष्ठा वर्ण्यते।

MADHMAHESHWAR

Madhyamaheshwar Temple is another significant shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India.

Madhyamaheshwar Temple, nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at an altitude of 3,497 meters (11,473 feet) above sea level, this ancient temple holds immense spiritual importance for devotees.

According to Hindu mythology, Madhyamaheshwar is believed to be the place where the navel (Nabhi) of Lord Shiva appeared after he vanished at Kedarnath, another prominent Shiva shrine in the region. The temple, though smaller in scale compared to Kedarnath, exudes a serene and tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by pristine natural beauty.

The journey to Madhyamaheshwar involves a challenging trek through rugged mountain trails, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and cascading streams. Pilgrims undertake this arduous trek, enduring the hardships of the terrain, to seek the divine blessings of Lord Shiva and experience the spiritual bliss that permeates the sacred surroundings.

मध्यमहेश्वरमन्दिरः उत्तराखण्डस्य गर्ह्वालहिमालये स्थितः शिवमंदिरं सनातनं धर्मस्थलमस्ति। इदं मनुष्याणां पवित्रं यात्रास्थलं भवति यत् तत्र चित्रं प्राकृतं शैलजलानि च पश्यन्ति।

मध्यमहेश्वरस्य मन्दिरं पुरातनं स्वरूपे च साधारणं भवति, तथापि तस्य वातावरणं चित्रमिव तत्र विहायसं स्वीकरोति। यात्रास्थलं गर्ह्वालहिमालये स्थितमस्ति, अतः पर्वतीयान्निर्जनस्थलान् पश्यन्ति, शैलशिखराणि च पश्यन्ति।

Tungnath Temple, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Tungnath Temple, situated at an elevation of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) above sea level, is the highest Shiva temple in the world. It holds immense significance for devotees of Lord Shiva and is one of the Panch Kedar temples, a group of five sacred sites dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Garhwal Himalayas.

According to Hindu mythology, Tungnath is believed to be the place where the arms (bahu) of Lord Shiva manifested after he disappeared at Kedarnath, another prominent Shiva shrine in the region. The temple, though modest in size, is renowned for its spiritual aura and panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

The trek to Tungnath involves traversing scenic mountain trails adorned with alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. Pilgrims undertake this challenging journey, often enduring harsh weather conditions, to seek the divine blessings of Lord Shiva and experience the tranquillity of this sacred abode amidst the Himalayan wilderness.

तुङ्गनाथमन्दिरः उत्तराखण्डस्य गर्ह्वालहिमालये स्थितः एकः शिवमंदिरः सनातनधर्मस्थलं चेति ज्ञायते। इदं पवित्रं यात्रास्थलं धर्माध्यानाय च यत्र विराजति।

तुङ्गनाथमन्दिरस्य महत्त्वं तत्र कथानुसारं स्थितं भवति, अतः यात्रा तत्र सध्यः प्रवृत्ता भवति, तथापि शैलस्थलं तुङ्गनाथपदातीरं स्वरूपेण अद्वितीयं रूपं प्राप्नोति।

Rudranath Temple, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Rudranath Temple, situated at an altitude of 2,286 meters (7,500 feet) above sea level, is one of the Panch Kedar temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It holds immense spiritual significance for devotees and pilgrims who visit the temple seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.

According to Hindu mythology, Rudranath is believed to be the place where the face (mukha) of Lord Shiva manifested after he vanished at Kedarnath, another prominent Shiva shrine in the region. The temple is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere conducive to spiritual reflection.

The pilgrimage to Rudranath involves a challenging trek through rugged mountain trails, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan terrain. Devotees undertake this arduous journey, guided by faith and devotion, to experience the divine presence of Lord Shiva and immerse themselves in the spiritual essence of this sacred site.

रुद्रनाथमन्दिरं उत्तराखण्डस्य गर्ह्वालहिमालये स्थितं एकं शिवमंदिरं विशेषतः प्रमुखेषु भवति, येन श्रीरुद्रः अविशेषेण प्रतिष्ठितः। अस्य मन्दिरस्य ऊँचता यः द्वात्रिंशत् अडीषु गर्ह्वालान्नाम्नाम्बूमिकायामास्ति।

रुद्रनाथस्य इतिहासस्य प्रसंगे गर्ह्वालहिमालये स्थितं केदारनाथं यत्र श्रीरुद्रस्य मुखपदं प्रतिष्ठितं भवति, तत्र श्रीरुद्रस्य मुखपदं प्रदर्शितं भवति। अतः रुद्रनाथमन्दिरं अत्यन्तमहत्त्वपूर्णं धार्मिकस्थलं चेति ज्ञातं भवति।

Kalpeshwar Temple, situated in the picturesque Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the Panch Kedar temples, revered pilgrimage sites associated with different parts of Lord Shiva’s body. Kalpeshwar Temple is unique as it represents Lord Shiva’s manifestation in his matted-haired form (Jata). The temple is located at an altitude of 2,200 meters (7,217 feet) above sea level, surrounded by pristine natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

Legend has it that Kalpeshwar is the place where Lord Shiva appeared to sage Durvasa to grant him his desires, hence the name “Kalpeshwar,” which means “the wish-fulfilling lord.” The temple, though modest in size, holds immense spiritual significance for devotees who seek blessings and fulfilment of their desires from Lord Shiva.

The journey to Kalpeshwar Temple involves trekking through rugged mountain trails, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape. Pilgrims undertake this arduous journey with devotion and reverence, immersing themselves in the divine atmosphere of the temple and surrounding natural beauty.

कल्पेश्वरमन्दिरः उत्तराखण्डस्य गर्ह्वालहिमालये स्थितः एकः प्रमुखः शिवमंदिरः सनातनधर्मस्थलमस्ति। यः प्रसिद्धः ‘कल्पेश्वर’ इति नाम्ना प्रख्यातः, स च शिवः ‘वृत्तजटा’ रूपेण अवतीर्णः। एष अन्यतमो भवनः पञ्च केदार मण्डलस्य भागः एव।

कल्पेश्वरमन्दिरस्य महत्त्वं कथानुसारं प्रतिपादितं भवति, यथा – ऋषिः दुर्वासा तपोवने अतीतेऽस्मिन् अनुपमसौभाग्यमुद्यतः। शिवं प्रतिदर्श्य प्रश्नः वरं प्राप्नोति, कल्पेश्वरः इति। एष अत्यन्तमहत्त्वात् प्रसिद्धः, तस्य मन्दिरं अत्युत्कृष्टं धार्मिकं च भवति।

After Char Dham Yatra the Panch Kedar or the five temples dedicated to Lord Shiva are considered significant in Indian Mythology. As per the saga, the five Kedar have relevance from Mahabharata. The legend says that Lord Shiva was unhappy after the Mahabharata War due to wrong practices during the war. Also, the Pandavas were in distress due to the killings of their brothers (Kauravas) and Brahmins in the war. They wanted to seek his blessings but Lord Shiva did not want to oblige them. So, he hid disguised as Nandi in the Garhwal mountains. When Bhim one of the Pandavas spotted the Nandi, Lord Shiva submerged in the earth and reappeared at five different locations in pieces. These panch spots are the Panch Kedar. It is believed that Nandi’s hump is at Kedarnath, his legs at Tungnath, his mid-torso at Madhyamaheshwar, his hair is believed to be at Kalpeshwar and his face at Rudranath. The circuit of these prime shrines completes the Panch Kedar Trek. Apart from its devotional attribute, this wonderful hike has adventure and gives an adrenaline rush as you touch every temple. All of these Cedars are located in the western Uttarakhand or the Chamoli district. They are all accessible by roads and stunning trails concealed by deep woodlands. The trek begins from Haridwar and then Joshimath which is the starting point of the long trek. Each day is a discovery of the hidden thrill of the Garhwal Himalayas, eye-soothing meadows, verdant forests of rhododendrons, fierce Ganges, chirping of birds and lively animals dancing around, all of this adorned by snow-crowned peaks. Camping amidst such wilderness is an exceptional experience that makes us grow as a person. The trek route is easy to grade but provides a different set of challenges of 12 days of survival in the jungle. It is believed that this Yatra completes the purpose of life. But being a trekker, one must not miss this fun, easy and incredible adventure. Come and walk the path like a nomad for 12 days.

Short Itinerary

Drive from rishikesh to pilonji base camp.

Driving Distance: 182 km Drive Duration: 7-8 hours Pick up Point: The Cloudline assembly point Natraj Chowk Rishikesh Pick up Time: 7:00 am Altitude: 4,327 ft Difficulty: Easy Stay at: Homestay

Drive from Pilonji to Guptakashi to Gaurikund and trek to Kedarnath

Drive distance: 50 km Drive Duration:1-2 hours Trek Distance: 16-18 Km Trek Duration: 8-9 hours Altitude gain: 4,327 ft to 11,758 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Guest house (Dormitory)

Descend from Kedarnath and drive back to Pilonji

Trek distance: 16-18 km Trek Duration: 8-9 hours Drive Distance: 50 Km Drive Duration: 1-2 hours Altitude loss: 11,758 ft to 4,327 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Homestay

Drive from Pilonji to Ransi and trek to Bantoli

Driving Distance:16 km Drive Duration: 1-2 hours Trek Distance: 7-8 km Trek Duration, 3-4 hours Altitude gain: 4,327 ft to 5,413 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Homestay

Trek from Bantoli to Madhmaheshwar

Trek distance: 8 Km Trek Duration: 5-6 Hours Altitude gain: 5,413 ft to 11,450 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Tent

Trek from Madhyamaheshwar to Ransi and drive to Pilonji

Trek Distance: 16-17 Km Trek Duration: 8-9 Hours Drive Distancer: 16 Km Drive Duration: 1-2 hours Altitude loss: 11,450 ft to 4,327 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Homestay 

Drive from Pilonji to Chopta and trek to Tungnath temple and back to Chopta

Drive Distance: 30 Km Drive Duration: 1.5 hours Trek Distance: 7 km Trek Duration: 4-5 hours Altitude gain: 4,327 ft to 12,073 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Tent

Drive from Chopta to Sagar village and trek to Panar Bugyal

Drive Distance: 35 km Drive Duration: 1 hours Trek Distance: 10 km Trek Duration: 5-6 hours Altitude loss: 12,073 ft to 7520 ft, Stay at: Tent

Trek from Panar Bugyal to Rudranath and back to Panar Bugyal

Trek Distance: 14 Km Trek Duration: 8-9 hours Altitude gain: 7520 ft to 11811 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Tent

Trek from Panar Bugyal to Sagar village and drive to Pipalkoti

Trek Distance: 10 Km Trek Duration: 5-6 hours Drive Distance: 30 Km Drive Duration: 1-2 hours Altitude loss: 7520 ft to 4028 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Hotel

Drive from Pipalkoti to Kalpeshwar and back to Pipalkoti

Drive Distance: 70 Km Drive Duration: 3 hours Altitude gain: 4,028 ft to 7,100 ft Difficulty: Easy Stay at: Hotel

Drive from Pipalkoti to Rishikesh

Driving Distance: 215 km Drive Duration: 7-8 hours

Detailed Itinerary

Driving Distance: 182 km Drive Duration: 7-8 hours Pick up Point: The Cloudline assembly point Natraj Chowk Rishikesh Pick up Time: 7:00 am Altitude: 4,327 ft Difficulty: Easy Stay at: Homestay

The journey to the Panch Kedar begins at the holy city of Rishikesh from where we will travel to Pilonji via Devprayag and Rudraprayag. The route to Pilonji is extremely beautiful as you will drive along scenic roads with River Ganga and then River Alaknanda accompanying you. Sleep well at Camp at night as you will trek to Kedarnath tomorrow.

From Pilonji you will head to Guptakashi, Gaurikund from where the Kedarnath Trek starts. Upon arrival at Kedarnath ji proceed for the trek for holy darshan at Kedarnath temple. Kedarnath Dham needs no introduction. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, a perfect Himalayan getaway with terrific historical and mythological prominence. More importantly, it is just a magnificent spot of beauty and serenity with the Kedarnath Range as the backdrop. From Gaurikund start your trek and continue through Rambada Bridge to reach Jungle Chatti, your first stop point. Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti is at a distance of 4 km. If you are tired, take a break here, have some water and refreshments and continue on your journey. From Jungle Chatti, the next stop is at Bheembali, which is at a distance of 3 km from Jungle Chatti. There are accommodations along Bheembali as well. The third stop is at Linchauli, which is 4 km Linchauli, accommodations are available at Linchauli as well. The mountain views from Linchauli are extraordinary and will take all your tiredness away. From Linchauli, it is another 4 km to the Kedarnath base camp. From the base camp, you will get a panoramic view of the mountain environs and the temple not very far away. You can feel the divine mysticism and the spiritual aura of the place as soon as you set foot on the Kedarnath shrine. The Kedarnath peak stands tall behind the temple adding to the divine aura of the temple. Overnight stay is arranged in camps/guest house in Kedarnath.

Get up early in the morning before dawn and after taking a bath visit the temple by 4:45 am for the Abhishek’ to Kedarnath Shiva. After Temple Darshan and Post breakfast begins your downward journey from Kedarnath. Trek down to Gauri Kund, which is known for its hot spring. There is a famous Parvati temple as well. According to legends, Gaurikund is where Parvati did penance involving yogic and ascetic practices to win Lord Shiva’s heart and it is believed that Lord Shiva accepted to marry Parvati here and they got married in the Triyuginarayan temple. From Gaurikund you will drive to Pilonji. Overnight stay is in Pilonji.

Drive Distance:16 km Drive Duration: 1-2 hours Trek Distance: 7-8 km Trek Duration, 3-4 hours Altitude gain: 4,327 ft to 5,413 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Homestay

Another exciting day and it’s time to move to the second Kedar – Madhyamaheshwar. The journey begins from Guptakashi by road to Ransi, a 16 km drive. After which there is a 6 km trek to Gaundhar. The route is made of mud and scree. The motorable road ends at Ransi village and the trek starts from here. It is a well-paved path with the Madhyamaheshwar Ganga River flowing on the right. It is an easy route as it is mostly downhill and it is since the route is a part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, the views, and the biodiversity is amazing. You can witness the rich biodiversity of the region with its beautiful flora and fauna. You will encounter numerous butterfly species, lizards, mountain goats, guard dogs, sheep, monkeys, and various bird species as well. The mountain and the forests will give you an amazing opportunity to be close to nature and absorb its peaceful vibrations. Gaundhar is located at an elevation of 3073 meters and is the base camp for hikers who want to reach Madhyamaheshwar. You will witness the holy merging points of rivers Madhyamaheshwar Ganga and Markanga Ganga. It is a stunning viewpoint, never to miss. The temple itself is set against a beautiful backdrop of green hills and meadows. Enjoy another tent stay at the Gaundhar camp. Sleep well for the upcoming Kedar next morning.

Today we will trek to the Madhmaheshwar Templer, which is often considered the second Kedar and also the fourth Kedar by many. Today is the hardest day of the trek as you will climb uphill all throughout the trek and gain quite a bit of altitude. It is an overwhelming hike of 5-6 hours covering a distance of 8 km to Madhmaheshwar temple. The temple is 3490 meters in height and is a striking element hidden between the alpine trees of the Garhwal Mountains. The shrine is placed perfectly between green meadows and lush forests. After breakfast at Gaundhar, head out on your trekking adventure towards Madhmaheshwar. Start the day early so that you can reach the temple by lunchtime. The trail is quite similar to the previous day but it gets a lot steeper half an hour before the climb. As you climb towards the temple you will witness beautiful grasslands covered by pine trees. The trekking trail is well-marked there is no chance of losing the track. All throughout the day, you will notice breathtaking scenery at every juncture and it gets better and better as you keep climbing up. There are also fixed benches along the route to sit down if you get tired. Along the route, you will also spot some shops that sell snacks and drinks. You can reenergize yourself at these points. The final few hundred meters to the temple are a flat walk and the view that opens up in front of you will leave you with a dearth of words. Once you reach the levelled path, you will reach the temple in a few minutes and you will feel quite satisfied and accomplished after arriving at the mighty temple. Madhmaheshwar temple is thousands of years old and you can get a close look at the ancient architecture. Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of navel-shaped Lingam here. Along with the main temple, there are also two small shrines, one dedicated to Shiva’s consort Parvati and another to Ardhanarishvara – a composite male and female idol of Lord Shiva.  You will halt the night next to the temple. The camping place is stupendous with clear sights of Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth. Have your hot dinner and rest for the night.

Today you will head to Pilonji which is 16 km from Ransi. After visiting the temple in the morning, we will descend to Ransi and drive towards Pilonji. Pilonji is at a distance of about 16 km from Ransi and will take approximately 1-2 hrs. The road to Pilonji is a serene ride rising slowly.

Drive Distance: 30 Km Drive Duration: 1.5 hours Trek Distance: 7 Km Trek Duration: 4-5 hours Altitude gain: 4,327 ft to 12,073 ft Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Tent

Chopta is a popular tourist destination hence it is crowded. It is a very picturesque destination that is also a camping site for the Chopta Chandrashila trek. The beauty of Chopta Valley is such that it is often known as the ‘Mini Switzerland od Uttarakhand’. It is also a great spot for birdwatching, often considered a paradise for birdwatchers with as many as 240 species of birds. The most prominent varieties are the Himalayan Monal, Himalayan Griffon, Himalayan Swiftlet, Hill Partridge, and Scarlet Finch. It is an extremely peaceful location to relax after a long tiring day. Enjoy your night stay in Homestay.

Today will be an exciting day as you will climb to the highest Shiva temple in the world. Located at 3680 meters elevation Tungnath temple is over 1000 years old. The route throughout the temple is cement paved with stairs and grills for safety. There are various stalls at the base of the temple that gives the vibe of a pilgrim spot. One thing to note about the trail to the top is that it is entirely decoder with rhododendrons that change their colors from red to pink to white as you slowly rise above. We will start in the early hours of the morning so that we can reach Tungnath while it is still daytime and you can enjoy the golden hour from the top. The path is 3.5km long and normally it takes 4-5 hours to reach. Today’s hike is going to be a little gruelling as you will have to make sharp turns around the mountains. Chandrashila trek has many hairpin bends and at the 10th bend, you will come to a flagpole section from where you can get a good view of the Chandrashila summit. Ravanshila connects Chandrashila to Tungnath. The temple is seen from a distance that stands right in front of a rocky cliff with infinite beauty around it. The entrance to Tungnath temple is at the 11th bend. Tungnath is where the hands of Lord Shiva are said to have appeared. Tungnath Temple also has a mention in the Mahabharata, according to which Arjun was the first person to lay the foundation of the temple.

Once you get back to the base, you will stay in Camps.

Drive Distance: 35 km Drive Duration: 1 hours Trek Distance: 10 km Trek Duration: 5-6 hours Altitude loss: 12,073 ft to 7520 ft, Difficulty: Moderate Stay at: Tent

Having visited the Tungnath Temple, we will head to Sagar village and trek to Panar Bugyal from there. Sagar village is located at a distance of 35 km approximately. Panar Bugyal is about 10 km away from Sagar and you have to complete the journey by trekking. Panar Bugyal as the name suggests is a highland meadow that offers beautiful views of Mt. Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Nanda Devi, and Bandarpoonch.  Sunset is especially beautiful here as the golden rays of the sun hit the snow-covered peaks and paint the sky and the mountains in hues of red, orange, purple, and pink. Needless to say, it is an awe-inspiring experience. The best thing about the trek is that along with spiritual importance, each moment is taking you closer to nature. It is the experience of being in the wild.

This trail is also a great route to encounter birds like Himalayan Monals, Green Bee Eaters, and Black Drango’s.

Wake up in your cozy tent rooms and take a few breaths of freshness. Today you will hike up to Rudranath. At 2286 meters in height, it is considered as the hardest and the most durable temple compared to the other four ones. The journey to Rudranath will be life-altering. The natural rock temple has rock-paved pathways surrounded by dense rhododendrons. The climb is 8 km long and a moderate hike. Rudranath Temple lies in the laps of Himalayan meadows, where the face of Lord Shiva is believed to have appeared. Inside the temple, you can see a beautiful stone-carved face that looks almost lifelike. The rock-carved sculpture of Shiva wears a smile on his face, which seems to melt away all your worries. Rudra Ganga flows near the temple, adding to its mystical allure. If you want to visit the temple independently, and not as a part of the Panch Kedar Trek then you should do so in the Hindu month of Shravan, when there is an annual fair held in the region and the entire area lights up and the shrine becomes even more beautiful. From Panar Bugyal take the road that moves towards the ridge on the left. En route, you will find some boulders and views of the snow-capped peaks.  The trail slowly and gradually climbs up the ridge and after half an hour of walking, you will see the Panar meadows below you. The verdant expanse of the Panar meadows and the snow-capped peaks in the foreground is just the perfect scene to enjoy nature’s splendour and capture Instagram-worthy pictures. Continue on the ridge until you reach a section where there are huge boulders on the left and a green valley on the right. As you continue on the path, you will come to a patch where there are huge boulders on each side of the trail with the ridge in between. The greenery all around and the snow-covered beauty will strike you spellbound with their beauty. Continue on the gradually ascending mud trail and soon you will see prayer flags and bells in the distance. It will take about 20 minutes to reach the bells. Following this, the trail descends into the valley with bright flowers and shrubs all around you. After about an hour of hiking, the Rudranath temple becomes visible. 20-30 minutes into the hike and you will come across painted tourist huts, walk past the huts, and in a few minutes, you will arrive at the shrine. Once you reach the Shiva shrine, one of the Panch Kedars you will see the first real views of the biggest Himalayan peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and more. Rudranath temple is surrounded on each side by Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, Manas Kund, and Tara Kund.

After some soothing moments at the sacred place, it will be time to go back to Panar. Enjoy your night’s stay in tents.

Having done the Rudranath trek, we will be descending to Sagar village once again followed by a drive to Pipalkoti. Start your day with a hearty breakfast and begin your journey downwards. The path is a little meandering and soon you will reach the grasslands of Lunti Bugyal, from here take the trail on the left and you will reach a stream in about 45 minutes. The mud trail is well-defined. The trail descends further to a wooden bridge in the forest and another beautiful meadow comes into view, which is surrounded by alpine forests. A few tea stalls line the meadow that serves tea and refreshments to the pilgrims, there’s also a shade to protect the pilgrims from rain and sun. The area is marked by a boundary of colourful flags. Continuing along the meadow, you will enter another forest cover and can witness the forest cultivation done by the villagers. Sagar village soon becomes visible as well. Continue down along the left and you will come across a stream just before entering Sagar village. After the stream, the trail becomes pretty narrow and rocky until you reach Sagar.  At the end of the trail, there is a bus stop, and crossing the road, you can see Sakleshwar Mahadev Mandir.  From here, we will drive to Pipalkoti, which is at a distance of 30 km and will take about an hour or two. Pipalkoti is a small hamlet in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Known for its unique beauty and serenity, this place often serves as a rest stop for people visiting Badrinath, Auli, Valley of Flowers, or Hemkund.

The hamlet is located by the banks of the Alakananda River and also offers a glorious view of the mountain peak of Nanda Devi, Mana Parbat, Neelkanth, and Hati Parbat. Your night stay is arranged at Pipalkoti.

We will start the day with a hearty breakfast and we will take a ride from Pipalkoti towards Kalpeshwar Temple. From Pipalkoti, we will first drive to Helang Village from where we will visit Vridha Badri, one of the Sapt Badris. The temple dates back to the time when India was under the rule of the Gupta Empire. This temple holds a big religious significance. Lord Vishnu is worshipped here in the form of an old man.  The legend says that Lord Narad once decided to perform penance on this site to please Lord Vishnu. Appeased by his prayers, Vishnu appeared in the form of an old man and answered all prayers of Narad. An idol of Vishnu was thus constructed in the form of an old man here. From Vridha Badri Temple we will proceed towards Urgam village. Urgam village is a peaceful habitat at 2134 meters elevation from where you start walking to Kalpeshwar. The altitude so far will be the same as Urgam village. Urgam village is known for its serenity and peacefulness, a place where saints meditate. The entire scenery is revitalizing Kalpeshwar. You will slowly climb up in the diverse forests and animals grazing around. The trail is moderate with a lot of rest. You will be greeted by villagers at every step. It is a short hike to Kalpeshwar. Folklore also has it that Kalpeshwar was the favourite meditative spot for sages like Durvasa and Arghya. While at the temple, also pay respect to the Kalpeshwar tree, it is believed the tree grants all your wishes. From Kalpeshwar, you will also get stunning views of Nanda Devi, Mt. Trishul, and Nanda Ghunti.  150 m behind the temple premises lies the ‘Dhyan Badri’ temple, although not one of the five Badris, this is yet another mystical experience for you. Many people visit Kalpeshwar temple because of the gorgeous views of the untouched mountain valley, the terraced fields of the villages, and the dense woods. After paying your respect at the temple and spending some time in the serene environs and we will return to Pipalkoti.

The drive will commence at 6 am and you will reach Rishikesh around 5 – 6 pm. Your Breakfast and Lunch will be on the way at a roadside inn, inclusive of charges, after having your morning tea/coffee you can leave for your next destination. We advise you to book further travel after 7 pm.  

Keep a buffer day in your travel plan. Buffer day is not included in the cost. Rs 4500 has to pay, per day per person. If buffer day is not used in the Yatra, then it can be used to explore Rishikesh/Haridwar/ Mussoorie. Rishikesh is known for Yoga, Ayurvedic Massage, Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, Parmarth aarti, and big ashrams. Haridwar is known for its Pilgrimage, Numerous temples, Har Ki Pauri, Ganga Aarti, Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple and numerus other places to explore. Mussoorie is known for Mall Road, Shopping, Kempty Falls, Municipal Garden, and Sir George Everest house.

What to Pack on the Trek Things you must take on the trek

MANDATORY DOCUMENTS

These are documents required for legal purposes by The Cloudline and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

• Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.
• Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record.  The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download Disclaimer Form
• Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by The Cloudline – Download medical certificate

Declaration Form – Download

Here is a list of everything you need for your trek.

Shoes and backpack

• Trekking shoes with ankle support)
• Backpack with rain cover
• Warm Layers and Clothes
• Warm layers – 1.  3 layers if you’re trekking in spring, summer and monsoon (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket) 2. 4 layers if you’re trekking in autumn (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket) 3. 5 layers if you’re trekking in winter (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
• 3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
• 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)

Accessories

• Sun cap with flaps
• Waterproof gloves
• Socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
• Trekking pole
• Rain jacket + pants/poncho
• Moisturiser
• Light towel
• Lip balm or Vaseline
• Toilet paper
• Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
• Water bottles

PERSONAL MEDICAL KIT

Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times.

• Diamox: 1 Strip
• Dolo 650: 5 tablets
• Avomine: 4 tablets
• Combiflam: 5 tablets
• Digene: 4 tablets
• ORS: 6 packs
• Knee Brace: optional

Inclusions & Exclusions What is included in the tour

⦁ Transportation to & fro from Rishikesh to Pilonji Base Camp and Pipalkoti to Rishikesh. ⦁ 3 nights at Pilonji. ⦁ 9 nights tented accommodation during the trek ⦁ Trek equipment: Sleeping bags, Mattresses, Crampons, Gaiters, micro spikes, All kind of Utensils, Stools/chairs etc. ⦁ Tents: Trekkers tent (twin/triple sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent ⦁ Entry Permit Fee, Guide Fee & Driver charges ⦁ Standard vegetarian food for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner during trek days ⦁ 1 Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader ⦁ Local Guide 1:6 ratio ⦁ Chef & support staff ⦁ Porters for carrying common equipment’s (like rations/tents/utensils/groceries) ⦁ The facility of keeping extra luggage at our Pilonji base camp, when leaving for the trek ⦁ Personal accident insurance ⦁ Insurance, transportations, salary of guide & porter ⦁ Basic First aid Kit  ⦁ All government, local taxes and service charges ⦁ The Cloudline Fee ⦁ Personalized Dri-Fit T-Shirt

What is NOT included in the tour

⦁ The cost to reach Rishikesh and back to your destination. ⦁ Airport Pick up and Drop Off ⦁ Personal trekking gear ⦁ Tips for guide, chef, porter, etc (calculated per person) ⦁ Excess baggage/porter charges ⦁ Local sightseeing and entrance fee, camera fee, etc ⦁ Mineral water or any type of soft drinks ⦁ Hot water for shower, etc, during the trek  ⦁ Extra meals apart from inclusions ⦁ Food during travel days ⦁ Lunch and dinner while travelling from/to Rishikesh ⦁ Any other expenses incurred apart from inclusions ⦁ All personal, medical, evacuation and emergency expenses like extra day stay or vehicle charges due to delays, landslides, evacuation.

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• Trekking in India

Panch Kedar Trek

• Accommodation
• Sightseeing
• Trip Highlights
• Best Time to Visit

About Panch Kedar Yatra Trek

One of the popular spiritual treks in Indian Himalayan region, the Panch Kedar Trek stretches from an altitude of 2134 meters, in Urgam, to a height of 3680 meters, in Tungnath. The entire stretch reflects the mythical colours of the Mahabharata where the Pandavas went to the Himalaya to meet Lord Shiva who avoided the meeting due to the Gau Hatya (Killing Cow) and Brahmahatya committed by the Pandavas. It is believed that in the struggle that followed, parts of Lord Shiva’s body that appeared in the form of a bull surfaced at various places in the Himalaya. The forelegs that showed up at Pashupatinath in Nepal, the hump of the bull at Kedarnath, the torso including the navel at Madhyamaheshwar, the arms at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, and the matted hair at Kalpeshwar, thus forming the Panch Kedar in India (excluding Pashupatinath being in Nepal).

The Panch Kedar Trek not only covers the five shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva but also allows you to get acquainted with the remote villages that exhibit an ancient charm. The entire trail from Kalgot to Kedarnath en route to Rudranath, Mandal, Chopta, Gaundhar, Tungnath and Madhyamaheshwar offers immense opportunity to get enamoured by nature of the place which is blessed with the snow capped peaks sequestering the dense forest and lush green meadows rolling down the valleys. Below are the five Kedar and their significance;

Panch Kedar Trek Highlights:

• Seek the blessing of Lord Shiva at his five supreme earthly abodes at Kalpeshwar, Rudranath, Tungnath, Kedarnath and Madhya Maheshwar
• Witness the pleasant scenery that is adorned with blooming flowers, thick forest and streams
• Get an opportunity to imbibe in the quaint charm of the remote villages. Interact with their innocent and laborious inhabitants and learn their way of leading a happy life without the modern technologies.
• Enjoy camping under the open sky amidst the beautiful landscape.

Best Time to Visit Panch Kedar

The best months for Panch Kedar Yatra are between May and October. All the temples of Panch Kedar open only for 6 months, generally from end April to October each year. During the winters the temples are inaccessible due to rainfall and snowfall. In winter, the sanctified symbolic of Lord Shiva in Kedarnath is worshipped at the Omkareshwar temple at Ukhimath, the representative idol of Tungnath is worshipped at Mokumath, the Rudranath symbolic image is brought to Gopeshwar, and the Madhyamaheshwar symbolic idol is venerated at Ukhimath. Only Kalpeshwar is open throughout the year.

Where are Panch Kedar?

The five temples lie Upper Himalaya region, with the background of snow-covered hill ranges of the Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath and Neelkanth peaks. Kedarnath is located in the Mandakini River valley while the other shrines are situated in the highlands between the Mandakini valley and the Alaknanda gorge. All the temples are remotely located and except Rudranath, the other four are still not accessible by motorable roads.

The village of Kedarnath is on the edge of Kedarnath mountain slope in a remote northern part of the Garhwal Himalayas. The Dudhganga, Madhuganga, Swargaduari and Saraswathi are the streams that flow in the valley behind the Kedarnath temple. Tungnath has an impressive backdrop of the peaks of Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, Dunagiri, Kedarnath and Bandar Poonch and is situated near Chopta, which is at a short distance from Ukhimath. Kalpeshwar is located in the Urgam valley in a dense forest area. Urgam Valley has apple orchards, terraced fields where potato is grown extensively. Kalp Ganga River, a tributary of the Alaknanda, flows through this valley.

Panch Kedar Trek (Detailed Itinerary)

Delhi – haridwar – rishikesh, other benfits (on arrival).

• Stay Included

In the morning take an AC train for Haridwar at 06:50 hrs. After arriving in Haridwar, meet our guide who will help transfer you to Rishikesh and check into the hotel. Evening time is free for leisure activities. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Rishikesh - Pipalkoti (1219 mts / 3998 ft) (218 kms / 7-8 hrs)

After the breakfast, we will drive to Pipalkoti via Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karanprayag, Nandprayag. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Pipalkoti - Helang - Urgam (2134 mts / 7000 ft) (9 kms trek / 3-4 hrs)

In the morning, we will drive to Helang and from here begin trekking to Urgam Village. We will cross Alaknanda River via Road Bridge. We shall walk through the dense forests to reach Urgam Valley. Explore the valley, delectable dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Urgam - Kalpeshwar - Urgam (2 kms one side)

Early in the morning, we will trek up to the first Kedar (one of Panch Kedars). Later, return trek to Urgam. Dinner and overnight stay in tent.

Urgam - Kalgot (2215 mts / 7265 ft)

After the breakfast, we shall trek towards the Kalgot Village. Arrive at the village in the evening and witness the culture of local people. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Kalgot - Rudranath (2286 mts / 7498 ft)

In the morning, trek to Rudranath temple from Kalgot. Dinner and overnight stay in Rudranath.

Rudranath - Sagar - Mandal (18 kms trek / 8 kms drive)

Post breakfast, trek down to Sagar Village by passing through the dense forest and meadows. Upon arrival at Sagar, drive to Mandal the same day. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Mandal - Chopta (2900 mts / 9512 ft) - Tungnath (19 kms /2 hrs / trek 3.5 kms)

After the breakfast drive to Chopta. Upon arrival at Chopta, trek to Tungnath (the third Kedar). After arriving at Tungnath Temple, visit the temple and then relaxing a bit can further trek to Chandrashila Peak. Dinner and overnight stay in Tungnath.

Tungnath - Chopta - Jagasu – Gaundhar

In the morning trek back to Chopta. Upon your arrival at Chopta, drive to Jagasu (45 kms / 2 hrs). From here trek up to Gaundhar. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Gaundhar - Madhyamaheshwar (3289 mts / 10788 ft)

Post early breakfast, we will begin trekking to Madhyamaheshwar (the fourth Lord Shiva temple of Panch Kedar). Upon arriving here, we will pitch our camp here. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Madhyamaheshwar – Gaundhar

In the morning, trek back to Gaundhar. Dinner and overnight stay in tent.

Gaundhar - Jagasu - Guptkashi

Today, we will trek about 12 km to reach Jagasu and from there drive to Guptkashi (30 kms). Dinner and overnight stay at hotel.

Guptkashi - Gaurikund - Kedarnath (3584 mts / 11756 ft)

After the breakfast, we shall drive to Gaurikund. Upon arrival here, we will begin trekking to Kedarnath, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. On arrival, check in at guest house. Evening time is free for exploring the area. Dinner and overnight stay in guest house.

Kedarnath - Gaurikund - Rudraprayag

In the morning, we will visit Kedarnath temple and then trek down to Gaurikund and drive to Rudraprayag along the river Mandakini. On arriving at Rudraprayag, we will check into the hotel. In the evening, we shall visit the confluence of Alaknanda & Mandakini River. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel.

Rudraprayag - Haridwar (160 kms/4-5 hrs) – Delhi

Post breakfast, we will drive to Haridwar via Devprayag. From Haridwar, we will board a train for Delhi at 18:05 hrs. Arrival at Delhi by 22:45 hrs.

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Panch kedar yatra -11days/10nights.

In the heart of the Garhwal region, amidst the towering peaks of Uttarakhand, lie the sacred Panch Kedar temples. These five revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva form a celestial constellation of spiritual significance. As the legends go, these temples were erected by the Pandavas in atonement for their sins committed during the epic battle of Mahabharata. 

The tale unfolds during the fierce Mahabharata battle, where the Pandavas, burdened by guilt for killing their kin, sought redemption from Lord Shiva. Disguised as a bull, Shiva eluded them, and at Guptakashi, he camouflaged himself. The Pandavas, in pursuit, discovered the hump at Kedarnath , navel at Madhya-Maheshwar, face at Rudranath, arms at Tungnath, and locks at Kalpeshwar. Thus, the Panch Kedar temples came into being, offering a sacred journey of repentance and devotion.

 Each temple tells a story, and together, they weave the divine tapestry of Panch Kedar, a celestial saga etched in the soul of Uttarakhand.

Quick Facts

Start : Rishikesh 

Duration : 11D10N

End : Rishikesh 

Trek Cost : INR 39,000/-Per person + 5%GST

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 - rishikesh to guptakashi.

• Driving Distance:  180 km, 7-8 hrs
• Breakfast and lunch on the way (exclusive of charges)
• Altitude:  1,319 m/ 4,327 ft
• Overnight stay : Guest House
• Meals : Dinner
• Network : Available 

Depart from Rishikesh in the morning. Enjoy a scenic road journey that takes you through picturesque landscapes and small towns. Guptakashi, located at an elevation of around 1,319 meters (4,327 feet), is a quiet town known for its spiritual significance and as a base for the Char Dham Yatra.

Day 2 - Guptakashi to Gaurikund and trek to Kedarnath

• Altitude:  3,584 m/ 11,758 ft
• Drive distance:  30 km,  1-2 hrs
• Trek distance:  16-18 km, 8-9 hrs
• Overnight stay:  Guest house (Dormitory)
• Meals:  Breakfast and Dinner
• Lunch is on the way (Exclusive of charges)

After an early breakfast, drive from Guptakashi to Gaurikund.Gaurikund is the starting point for the trek to Kedarnath. The trek is approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) long and takes around 6-8 hours, depending on your pace. The trail is a mix of steep ascents and descents, passing through lush forests, river crossings, and charming hamlets.

Kedarnath, located at an altitude of about 3,583 meters (11,755 feet), is home to the famous Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Day 3 - Descend from Kedarnath and drive back to Guptakashi

• Drive To Guptkashi:  30 km, 1 hrs
• Trek distance:  16-18 km to Gaurikund, 8-9 hrs
• Overnight stay : Guest house
• Meals:  Breakfast and Dinner 
• Network:  Available

Explore the Kedarnath Temple and its surroundings.Descend back to Gaurikund, which is an easier journey compared to the ascent.Drive back to Guptakashi, where you can relax and reflect on your pilgrimage experience.

Day 4-Guptakashi to Ransi and trek to Gaundhar

• Driving Distance: 35 km, 1-2 hrs
• Trekking Distance:  5-6 km, 5-6 hrs
• Overnight stay : Homestay
• Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner 

Drive from Guptakashi to Ransi, a scenic village nestled in the mountains. Begin the trek from Ransi to Gaundhar, which is known for its lush green meadows and panoramic views. The trek might take around 5-6  hours, covering a distance of approximately 6 kilometers.  Overnight stay in village homestay.

Day 5 - Trek from Guandhar to Madhamaheswar

• Altitude:  3,490 m/ 11,450 ft
• Trek distance:  10 km, 7-8 hrs
• Overnight stay : Village homestay
• Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Embark on a trek from Gaundhar to Madhamaheswar, which is a trek of around 10 kilometers (3.7 miles) and takes about 7-8 hours. Madhamaheswar is home to the Madhamaheswar Temple, surrounded by stunning Himalayan vistas.

Day 6 - Trek from Madhamaheswar to Ransi and drive to Chopta

• Altitude:  1,319 m/ 4,327 ft
• Trek Distance:  16-17 km, 8-9 hrs
• Drive to Chopta : 50 km, 1-2 hrs
• Overnight stay : Camps/Cottages 

Trek back from Madhamaheswar to Ransi. Drive to Chopta, a popular destination known for its enchanting meadows and as the starting point for the Tungnath trek.

Day 7: Trek from Chopta to Tungnath Temple and Drive to Sagar Village

• Altitude:  3680 m/ 12073 ft
• Trekking Distance : Chopta To Tungnath, and return (Trek 7 km)
• Trekking Time: 7 to 8 hrs
• Water source: none
• Driving Distance: 35 km, 1 hrs
• Overnight stay: Homestay
• Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Begin the trek to Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world.The trek is around 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) and takes about 2-3 hours.Continue to Chandrashila peak for breathtaking panoramic views. Trek down to road head and drive to sagar village, our base for Rudranath temple

Day 8 – Trek from Sagar village to Panar Bugyal

• Altitude:  2,350 m/7520 ft
• Trek Distance:  10 km, 7-8 hrs
• Overnight stay : Camp

Post breakfast, begin your trek for Panar Bugyal.The trek to Panar Bugyal is around 10 kilometers  and takes approximately 7-8 hours, trekking trail is moderately difficult and this hike is not recommended for beginners.  Panar Bugyal offers stunning alpine meadows and views of the surrounding peaks.

Day 9 - Trek from Panar Bugyal to Rudranath and back to Panar Bugyal

• Altitude:  3600 m/ 11811 ft
• Trek Distance:  14 km, 8-9 hrs
• Overnight stay  : Camps

Trek to Rudranath Temple, around 7 kilometers  from Panar Bugyal. Rudranath is one of the Panch Kedar temples and holds spiritual significance. Return to Panar Bugyal after visiting the temple.

Day 10 - Trek from Panar Bugyal to Sagar village and drive to Urgam Village

• Altitude:  1259 m/4028 ft
• Trekking Distance:  10 km, 5-6 hrs
• Driving Distance:  60 km, 3-4 hrs
• Overnight stay:  Homestay
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Trek back to Sagar Village from Panar Bugyal, board on waiting vehicle and continue your journey for  Urgam village, a small town with scenic surroundings.

Day 11 – Kalpeshwar Darshan and Drive back to Rishikesh

• Driving Distance : 252 km, 9 hrs
• Breakfast and lunch on the way (Exclusive of charges)
• Rishikesh Dropping by Evening. 

In the morning visit, Kalpeshwar temple which is in walking distance,  post darshan board on waiting vehicle for  Rishikesh, marking the end of the journey. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you’ve gathered during this spiritual and adventurous expedition.

Enquire Now

>>this is highly popular pilgrimage tour among tourist with rating 4.8, why book with us, experienced guides.

Trek confidently with our seasoned trek leaders who offer expert guidance and ensure your safety at every step.

Personalized Assistance

Get tailored support from our team, assisting you in choosing the right trek and addressing any concerns, making your first trek hassle-free and enjoyable.

Safety Assurance

Your safety is paramount to us. We strictly adhere to safety protocols, providing thorough briefings, essential equipment, and emergency support throughout your journey.

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Contact Info

• Inclusion/Exclusion
• Packing list
• All the Accommodation are in triple and quad sharing in Hotels, Guesthouse, camps, and cottages
• Meals while on trek (Pure Veg.) as per itinerary
• All necessary permits and entry fees.
• First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinder.
• Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide, and Support staff.
• Transport from Rishikesh to Rishikesh
• All road transfers by NON AC Vehicle like Mahindra Max Jeep, Tempo Traveller, or Similar to Panch Kedar sector & back
• Any kind of personal expenses.
• Food during the transit.
• Any kind of emergency evacuation charges
• Mules or porters to carry personal luggage.
• Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.

Trekking Gear

• 🎒 Rucksack bag with rain cover x1 (To carry all essentials and protect from rain)
• 🎒 Day Pack Bag (Recommended for summit day) (For carrying essentials during the summit attempt)
• 💡 Head Torch with spare batteries x1 (For illumination during early morning or night treks)
• 🕶️ UV protection sunglasses x1 (To shield eyes from harmful UV rays and glare)
• 💧 Water Bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each (For staying hydrated throughout the trek)
• 👞 Non-skid, deep-treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes x1 (For comfortable and safe trekking)
• 🥿 Pair of lightweight Slipper/Sandals x1 (For relaxing feet during breaks and at campsites)
• 👖 Quick-dry warm lower or Track Pants x2 (For comfortable trekking in varying weather conditions)
• 👕 Full sleeves T-shirts/Sweatshirts (1 for every 2 days of trekking) (To regulate body temperature)
• 🧦 Pair of thick woolen socks (1 pair for every two days of trekking) (To keep feet warm and prevent blisters)
• 🧥 Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower x1 (For added warmth during cold weather)
• 🩲 Undergarments (1 for every day of trekking) (For personal hygiene and comfort)
• 🧥 Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck x1 (For warmth and protection against cold winds)
• 🧥 Full sleeves sweater x1 (Additional layer for warmth)
• 🌧️ Rainwear (Jacket & Pants) x1 (To stay dry during rainy weather)
• 🧤 Pair of waterproof, warm gloves x1 (For protecting hands from cold and wet conditions)
• 🧢 Woolen cap x1 (To retain heat and protect head from cold)
• 🎩 Sunshielding Hat x1 (To shield face and head from sun exposure)
• 🧴 Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.) (For personal hygiene)
• ☀️ Sunscreen lotion small pack x1 (Refer to Sun Protection 101 for outdoor safety) (To protect skin from sunburn)
• 💋 Lip Balm small pack x1 (To prevent lips from getting dry and chapped)

Miscellaneous

• 📷 Camera (Optional) (For capturing memories)
• 💊 Carry your medicines in plenty if you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek. (For medical needs)
• 🍫 Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional) (For quick energy boosts and snacks)

Booking Terms

• Payment: To secure your booking, a 40% deposit of the total amount is required. Upon receipt, you will receive a confirmation shortly. The remaining balance must be paid on the day of arrival before the start of the trip.

Cancellation Terms

• Cancellation 30 Days or Prior: No cancellation charges will be deducted from the booking amount if cancellations are made within 30 days or prior to the trip.
• Cancellation 30-15 Days: If cancellations are made between 30 and 15 days before the trip, a 50% cancellation fee will apply.
• Cancellation Less than 7 Days: Cancellations made less than 7 days prior to the trip will result in a 100% cancellation fee.
• No Show: In the event of a 'No show', no refund will be provided under any circumstances.

Refund Terms

• Refund Process: Refunds for cancellations will be processed back to the original payment method within 10 working days once the cancellation is confirmed.

Kedarnath Temple Darshan Registration  

The online registration for one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimages in India, the Char Dham Yatra, has commenced. The Uttarakhand tourism department has announced that the registration for the pilgrimage to the four holy sites – Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri – is now open on the tourism department’s portal.

The doors of Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kedarnath will open on May 10, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, while the Badrinath shrine will open on May 12. Every year, lakhs of devotees embark on this holy pilgrimage, which remains closed for around six months annually.

Important Opening Timings:

• Gangotri Dham: Opens at precisely 12:25 pm local time
• Shri Badrinath Dham: Opens on May 12 at 6 am
• Shri Kedarnath Dham: Opens from May 10 onwards at 7 am

How to Register for Char Dham Yatra 2024:

• Visit the official Char Dham Yatra registration website at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
• Click on the “Register” or “Login” option
• Complete the registration by entering your personal details such as phone name, number, email id, etc.
• Verify your registration by entering the OTP sent to your mobile phone
• After successful registration, a unique registration number will be sent to your mobile phone. You can then download the registration letter for Chardham Yatra.

Additionally, registrations can also be made through the mobile application ‘Tourist Care Uttarakhand’ available on Android and iOS. For WhatsApp registration, simply message ‘Yatra’ to initiate the process on +91 8394833833.

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Embrace the rush of the Ganges in Rishikesh, where every rapid tells a story of adventure and serenity, carving unforgettable moments on the waters

Chardham Yatra

Join Our Team for an Enriching Chardham Yatra, where pilgrims and seekers unite in a divine journey amidst the Himalayan grandeur

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Join Our Team for an Unforgettable Do Dham Yatra Experience, where every step is a journey of spiritual discovery and mountain magic

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Embark on a Sacred Kedarnath Yatra, where the echoes of devotion and the majesty of the mountains merge into an unforgettable pilgrimage

The Panch Kedar Yatra is a pilgrimage to five Shiva temples in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. The temples are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar. The yatra is considered to be one of the most challenging and rewarding pilgrimages in Hinduism.

• 1 History of Panch Kedar Yatra:
• 2.0.1 Kedarnath Temple
• 2.0.2 Tungnath Temple
• 2.0.3 Rudranath Temple
• 2.0.4 Madhyamaheshwar Temple
• 2.0.5 Kalpeshwar Temple
• 3 Significance of Panch Kedar Yatra:
• 4 Myths and beliefs of Panch Kedar Yatra:
• 5 Where are Panch Kedar(List)?
• 6 Panch Kedar Travel Route Plan:
• 7 Best Time for Panch Kedar Trek
• 8 Panch Kedar Travel registration:
• 9.0.1 Q: When is the best time to visit the Panch Kedar temples?
• 9.0.2 Q: How do I get to the Panch Kedar temples?
• 9.0.3 Q: What is the difficulty level of the Panch Kedar trek?
• 9.0.4 Q: What kind of gear do I need for the Panch Kedar trek?
• 9.0.5 Q: What are the religious and cultural significance of the Panch Kedar temples?
• 9.0.6 Q: What are some of the other things I can do in the Panch Kedar region?

History of Panch Kedar Yatra:

The history of the Panch Kedar Yatra is closely linked to the legend of the Pandavas. After the war, the Pandavas were seeking Lord Shiva’s forgiveness for the sins they had committed. Shiva, however, was angry with them and tried to avoid them. He disguised himself as a bull and hid in the Garhwal Himalayas.

The Pandavas eventually found Shiva and begged for his forgiveness. Shiva agreed to forgive them, but only if they could build temples to him in five different places where his body parts had fallen. The Pandavas did as they were instructed and built the Panch Kedar temples.

The Panch Kedar Yatra is a challenging pilgrimage, as the temples are located in remote and mountainous areas. However, it is a very rewarding experience for pilgrims, as it offers the opportunity to visit some of the most sacred Shiva temples in the world.

The Panch Kedar Yatra is typically undertaken during the summer months, when the weather is more favorable for trekking. The pilgrimage usually begins at Kedarnath, the most famous of the Panch Kedar temples. From Kedarnath, pilgrims trek to the other four temples, following a route that takes them through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Himalayas.

The Panch Kedar Yatra is a spiritual journey for many pilgrims. It is an opportunity to connect with Lord Shiva and to seek his blessings. The pilgrimage is also a challenging physical test, and it requires a great deal of endurance and determination to complete.

Legend of Panch Kedar Yatra:

The legend of the Panch Kedar Yatra is a popular Hindu pilgrimage that takes devotees to five Shiva temples in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas. The temples are Kedarnath, Madhmaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar.

The legend goes that after the Pandavas won the Kurukshetra War, they were filled with guilt for the violence they had committed. They sought Lord Shiva’s forgiveness, but he refused to see them. The Pandavas then searched for Shiva throughout the Himalayas, but he continued to elude them.

Finally, the Pandavas found Shiva hiding in the form of a bull at Guptkashi. Bhima, the strongest of the Pandavas, tried to grab the bull’s tail, but Shiva disappeared and reappeared in five different forms at five different locations. The Pandavas built temples at each of these locations, and the five temples are now known as the Panch Kedar.

According to another version of the legend, Shiva appeared to the Pandavas in a dream and told them that he had scattered his body parts in five different places. He instructed the Pandavas to build temples at each of these locations and worship him there.

The Panch Kedar Yatra is a challenging pilgrimage, but it is also a very rewarding one. The five temples are located in some of the most beautiful and remote places in the Himalayas. The trek to the temples is long and arduous, but it is also an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas and to learn about the rich culture and history of the region.

The Panch Kedar Yatra is typically done in the summer months, when the weather is more pleasant. However, the temples are open all year round. Devotees who complete the Panch Kedar Yatra are believed to be blessed by Lord Shiva and to have their sins forgiven.

Here is a brief description of each of the five Panch Kedar temples:

Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath Temple is the most important of the Panch Kedar temples. It is believed that the Pandavas from the Hindu epic Mahabharata worshipped Lord Shiva here after the Kurukshetra War.

The Kedarnath Temple is located in a remote area of the Garhwal Himalayas, and it can only be reached by trekking. The trek to Kedarnath Temple is challenging, but it is also very rewarding. The trekkers are treated to stunning views of the Himalayas, and they also get to experience the unique culture and traditions of the Garhwal region.

Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple is the third highest of the Panch Kedar temples. It is located on the Tungnath peak, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

Tungnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s arms. It is believed that the Pandavas found Shiva’s arms here after he disappeared in the form of a bull.

Rudranath Temple

Rudranath Temple is the second highest of the Panch Kedar temples. It is located in a remote area of the Garhwal Himalayas, and it can only be reached by trekking.

Rudranath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s face. It is believed that the Pandavas found Shiva’s face here after he disappeared in the form of a bull.

Madhyamaheshwar Temple

Madhyamaheshwar Temple is the fourth highest of the Panch Kedar temples. It is located in a remote area of the Garhwal Himalayas, and it can only be reached by trekking.

Madhyamaheshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s navel. It is believed that the Pandavas found Shiva’s navel here after he disappeared in the form of a bull.

Kalpeshwar Temple

Kalpeshwar Temple is the least elevated of the Panch Kedar temples. It is located in a remote area of the Garhwal Himalayas, and it can only be reached by trekking.

Kalpeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s hair. It is believed that the Pandavas found Shiva’s hair here after he disappeared in the form of a bull.

Significance of Panch Kedar Yatra:

• Kedarnath: the hump of the bull
• Tungnath: the arms
• Rudranath: the face
• Madhyamaheshwar: the navel
• Kalpeshwar: the hair and head
• Spiritual significance: The Panch Kedar Yatra is a challenging but rewarding pilgrimage. It requires physical and mental endurance, as well as a deep devotion to Lord Shiva. Pilgrims who complete the Yatra are said to be absolved of their sins and achieve moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).

In addition to its religious and spiritual significance, the Panch Kedar Yatra is also a popular tourist destination. The temples are located in some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the Himalayas. The trek to the temples is challenging but rewarding, and offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Here are some of the benefits of completing the Panch Kedar Yatra:

• Spiritual upliftment: The Panch Kedar Yatra is a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. It is a time to reflect on one’s life and to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.
• Physical and mental strength: The Panch Kedar trek is a challenging one, but it is also a rewarding one. Pilgrims who complete the trek develop greater physical and mental strength.
• Inner peace: The Panch Kedar Yatra is a time to let go of one’s worries and to experience inner peace.
• Connection with nature: The Panch Kedar temples are located in some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the Himalayas. Pilgrims on the Yatra have the opportunity to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of the mountains and valleys.

Myths and beliefs of Panch Kedar Yatra:

Myths and beliefs associated with the Panch Kedar Yatra:

• The most popular myth associated with the Panch Kedar Yatra is that each of the five temples represents a different part of Lord Shiva’s body. Kedarnath represents the hump, Tungnath represents the arms, Madhyamaheshwar represents the navel, Rudranath represents the face, and Kalpeshwar represents the hair and head.
• It is believed that performing the Panch Kedar Yatra washes away all sins and leads to moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
• The Panch Kedar temples are also believed to be very powerful and miraculous. Many devotees believe that their prayers are always answered when they visit these temples.

Here are some other myths and beliefs associated with the Panch Kedar Yatra:

• It is believed that the Panch Kedar temples are located in the Chakras (energy centers) of the human body. Visiting these temples is said to balance and energize the chakras.
• The Panch Kedar temples are also said to be connected to the five elements of nature: earth, water, fire, air, and ether. Visiting these temples is said to bring devotees into harmony with the natural world.
• The Panch Kedar Yatra is a very challenging pilgrimage, but it is also very rewarding. Many devotees believe that the journey itself is a spiritual experience.

Where are Panch Kedar(List)?

The Panch Kedar temples are considered to be among the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. They are also known for their challenging treks, which offer stunning views of the Himalayas.

The Panch Kedar temples are visited in a specific order, from Kedarnath to Kalpeshwar. Kedarnath is the most important of the five temples, and it is believed that the Pandavas from the Hindu epic Mahabharata worshipped Lord Shiva here after the Kurukshetra War.

The other four Panch Kedar temples are located in remote areas of the Himalayas, and they can only be reached by trekking. The treks to the Panch Kedar temples are challenging, but they are also very rewarding. The trekkers are treated to stunning views of the Himalayas, and they also get to experience the unique culture and traditions of the Garhwal region.

The best time to visit the Panch Kedar temples is during the summer months (April to June) and the autumn months (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant and the treks are easier to do. However, it is important to note that the Panch Kedar temples are closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.tunesharemore_vert

Panch Kedar Travel Route Plan:

Day 1: Arrive in Haridwar and check into your hotel.

Day 2: Drive to Joshimath, a town in the Garhwal Himalayas.

Day 3: Trek to Kalpeshwar Temple, the first of the Panch Kedar temples.

Day 4: Trek to Sagar Village, the base camp for the trek to Rudranath Temple.

Day 5: Trek to Rudranath Temple, the second of the Panch Kedar temples.

Day 6: Trek back to Sagar Village.

Day 7: Drive to Chopta, a village in the Garhwal Himalayas.

Day 8: Trek to Tungnath Temple, the third of the Panch Kedar temples.

Day 9: Trek to Chandrashila, a peak near Tungnath Temple that offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

Day 10: Trek back to Chopta.

Day 11: Drive to Gaurikund, the base camp for the trek to Kedarnath Temple.

Day 12: Trek to Kedarnath Temple, the most important of the Panch Kedar temples.

Day 13: Trek back to Gaurikund.

Day 14: Drive to Haridwar and depart for home.

This is just a suggested itinerary, and you can customize it to fit your interests and fitness level. For example, if you are interested in trekking, you can extend your trip to include treks to other Himalayan destinations, such as Hemkund Sahib or Valley of Flowers. You can also choose to stay longer at each temple to have more time to explore the surrounding area.

Here are some additional tips for planning your Panch Kedar pilgrimage:

• The best time to visit the Panch Kedar temples is during the summer months (April to June) and the autumn months (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant and the treks are easier to do. However, it is important to note that the Panch Kedar temples are closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
• It is important to be physically fit before attempting the Panch Kedar treks. The treks are challenging and require a good level of endurance.
• Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for the treks. The weather in the Himalayas can change quickly, so it is important to be prepared for all types of conditions.
• It is a good idea to hire a local guide for the treks. The guides can help you navigate the trails and provide information about the temples and the surrounding area.

Best Time for Panch Kedar Trek

The best time for the Panch Kedar trek is during the summer months of April to June and the autumn months of September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the treks are easier to do. The skies are clear and the views are stunning. The temperatures are also mild, ranging from 13 to 17 degrees Celsius during the day and 0 to 5 degrees Celsius at night.

However, it is important to note that the Panch Kedar temples are closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall. The trails are also dangerous and difficult to navigate during this time.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of the best time to visit each of the Panch Kedar temples:

• Kedarnath Temple: April to June and September to October
• Tungnath Temple: May to June and September to October
• Rudranath Temple: May to June and September to October
• Madhyamaheshwar Temple: May to June and September to October
• Kalpeshwar Temple: April to June and September to October

If you are planning to do the Panch Kedar trek in its entirety, it is best to start your trek in early May or early September. This will give you enough time to complete the trek before the monsoon season arrives in June or the winter season arrives in November.

It is also important to keep in mind that the Panch Kedar trek is a challenging trek. It is important to be physically fit and to have experience trekking in high altitudes before attempting the trek. It is also a good idea to hire a local guide for the trek.

Panch Kedar Travel registration:

To register for the Panch Kedar trek, you can either visit the official website of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) or download the Tourist Care Uttarakhand app.

On the UTDB website, go to the “ Panch Kedar Yatra ” page and click on the “Register Now” button. You will be asked to create an account and provide your personal details, such as your name, address, and contact information. You will also need to provide details of your next of kin.

Once you have completed the registration process, you will receive a confirmation email. You will need to print out this email and carry it with you on your trek.

Q: When is the best time to visit the Panch Kedar temples?

A: The best time to visit the Panch Kedar temples is during the summer months of April to June and the autumn months of September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the treks are easier to do. The skies are clear and the views are stunning. The temperatures are also mild, ranging from 13 to 17 degrees Celsius during the day and 0 to 5 degrees Celsius at night.

Q: How do I get to the Panch Kedar temples?

A: The Panch Kedar temples are located in remote areas of the Garhwal Himalayas, and they can only be reached by trekking. The nearest town to the Panch Kedar temples is Joshimath, which is accessible by road from Haridwar and Dehradun.

To reach Joshimath from Haridwar, you can take a shared taxi or a bus. The journey takes around 6-7 hours. From Dehradun, the journey to Joshimath takes around 5-6 hours.

Once you reach Joshimath, you will need to hire a porter or a guide to help you with your trek to the Panch Kedar temples.

Q: What is the difficulty level of the Panch Kedar trek?

A: The Panch Kedar trek is a challenging trek. The trails are steep and rocky, and there are several high altitude passes to cross. The trek is also long, covering a total distance of around 160 km.

It is important to be physically fit and to have experience trekking in high altitudes before attempting the Panch Kedar trek. It is also a good idea to hire a local guide for the trek.

Q: What kind of gear do I need for the Panch Kedar trek?

A: Here is a list of essential gear that you will need for the Panch Kedar trek:

• Trekking shoes or boots
• Trekking pants and shirts
• Thermal underwear
• A warm jacket
• A hat and gloves
• Insect repellent
• A water bottle
• A headlamp or flashlight
• First-aid kit
• Snacks and energy bars

Q: What are the religious and cultural significance of the Panch Kedar temples?

A: The Panch Kedar temples are among the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. They are believed to be the places where Lord Shiva manifested himself in five different forms.

The Panch Kedar temples are also important cultural landmarks. They are located in some of the most remote and scenic areas of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Q: What are some of the other things I can do in the Panch Kedar region?

A: In addition to visiting the Panch Kedar temples, there are a number of other things you can do in the Panch Kedar region. Here are a few suggestions:

• Trek to the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Visit Hemkund Sahib, a sacred Sikh shrine
• Trek to Chandrashila, a peak that offers stunning views of the Himalayas
• Visit the Auli ski resort
• Explore the villages and hamlets of the Garhwal Himalayas

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Panch Kedar Trek

Description

Reviews (1), things to take, available dates, include / exclude.

The five pilgrim site circuit of Kedarkhand in garhwal region is a popular trekking circuit comprising various terrains and landmarks. The holy circuit of Panch Kedar starts from Kedarnath and rounds off to Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar and ends at Kalpeshwar. Located at various astounding heights ranging from 2200m of Kalpeshwar to 3600m of Tungnath Panch Kedar trek is a remote but highly celebrated pilgrimage circuit in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. 

According to legends and hindu mythology the Pandavas are said to have built the temples after the great Mahabharata war. It is believed that after the war, the Pandavas left their reign in search of atonement, and in the process, they attempted to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva.

In contrast, Lord Shiva was deeply affected by the bloodshed and refused to meet with the Pandavas. Lord Shiva hid in the Garhwal Himalayas as a bull, and when one of the Pandava brothers caught him, the bull’s body submerged in the ground, only to later reappear in other forms, which is now known as “Panch Kedar.” The missing bull reappeared in parts in Kedarnath, Rudranath, Tungnath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar, with the hump in Kedarnath, face in Rudranath, arms in Tungnath, navel in Madhyamaheshwar, and hair in Kalpeshwar.

This Panch Kedar Trek generally starts from Kedarnath and ends at Kalpeshwar temple. Trekkers will not only be covering the beautiful vistas during the on vehicle road but also along the route. The journey will witness high altitudes, rocky terrain, green pastures, many glistening streams and many majestic Himalayan peaks.

Key Points of Panch Kedar Trek

Trek highlights of panch kedar trek.

Even before the trek starts trekkers are subjected to beautiful vistas En route with stunning temples at every few kilometers clearly stamping that yes trekkers are indeed at the Land of Gods ‘ Uttarakhand ”.

The trek officially begins in Gaurikund and takes in a number of campsites and driveways along the way. The majestic views of the Kedarnath trails to the staggering height of Tungnath this circuit tests the physical endurance of devotees and trekkers. This trek will cover various forests of rhododendron trees adorned in crimson and pink colors. The meadows of Pun Bugyal and Punar Bugyal, with the Himalayan Mountains as a backdrop, will be the closest thing to pure bliss. The trail circuit to Panch Kedar is covered in changing vegetation and terrains in Himalayan region after every few kilometers. 

Devotees would chant and celebrate the trail for the duration of the journey. The reverberation of “Har Har Mahadev” at various points in the journey will imbues you with a powerful spiritual presence.

The final reach of every temple is enough to overwhelm devotees with the chants of “Mahadev”. Temples covered in long ribbons of marigold garlands, long happy queues of devotees, spectacular glacier and mountain views and the calmness of the Panch Kedar temples everything about the sites will capture you in their essence.

Things to Look out for-

• Souvinersform Rishikesh are great for memories.
• There are countless photogenic vistas, so we recommend that you prepare yourself for any aesthetic shoots. The best pictures are those taken under a blue sky with snow-covered peaks in the background.
• Explore the tranquility of this holy site and submerge yourself in Mahadev’s blessings.

The altitude covered in Panch Kedar Trek 

• Rishikesh-340m
• Sonprayag-1829m
• Gaurikund-1982m
• Kedarnath-3583m
• Ransi village-2438m
• Madmaheshwar-3490m
• Chopta-2608m
• Tungnath-3680m
• Chandrashila-4000m
• Punar Bugyal-2258m
• Rudranath-3600m
• Urgam village-2010m
• Kalpeshwar-2200m

Best Time to Visit  Panch Kedar Trek

Panch Kedar temple is best visited during the months of May to November. Devotees and trekkers can enjoy the mild temperatures of these months. The unfavorable temperatures and precipitation make this trek a pre and post monsoon season trek. Temperatures typically range from 13 to 17 degrees Celsius during the day, with substantially colder nights.

Views along the journey in Panch Kedar Trek

Rishikesh to Gaurikund- Beautiful routes covered in Himalayan vegetation, witness the magical confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers at the site of Rudranath.

The distant views of Himalayan Mountains and varying legends associated with the place are sure to motivate trekkers.

The top view of temples offers a great view of many Himalayan peaks like Panchachuli, Bandarpoonch ,Kedarnath and many more.

Sagar village to Panar Bugyal-Pun bugyal after the 2hr journey from Sagar village before reaching Punar Bugyal is a beautiful grassland with hills covered in green pastures and strong confluences of distant mountains. Pitradhar ridge lying En route provides a spectacular view of Chaukhamba Peaks.

Nearby places to visit in Panch Kedar Trek

We recommend trekkers to first complete their Pilgrim circuit and then visit the places after Kalpeshwar. Trekkers will be bound to circuit trek and shall only be provided to explore nearby villages and trails while on rest days or camp set ups.

Visit the famous sagar temple in the Sagar village, the village is a great exploration point for a start and end stop of a trek.

While returning from the Kedarnath Temple trekkers can opt for trek via Anusuya Devi temple to Mandal further from where teams can either walk or take a cab to Sagar Village. The temple of Anusuya Devi is dedicated to goddess Sati. Sati was believed to be the wife of Atri Muni, one of the great sages from Saptarishi.

Trekkers can visit Budha Kedar temple, Sapt Badri and Dhayan Badri temple that are in close vicinity of Kalpeshwar temple.

Set amidst the high altitude ranges, concerns regarding Panch Kedar circuit trek safety are undeniably very valid questions. Yes, the trek to all the Panch Kedar are indeed very safe and reliable; trails and much clearer safety protocols are sure to ease anyone’s concerns.

Difficulty level in Panch Kedar Trek

Because the temple sites are relatively high in elevation, we strongly advise any beginner level trekkers to have a reasonable level of physical fitness. We recommend that trekkers prepare physically and mentally for this trek before embarking on it.

Any medical assistance that is required will be provided at any point of the journey; however, trekkers must consult their professional care before beginning any trek. We also strongly advise trekkers to learn about altitude sickness and to notify our teams as soon as any symptoms appear.

Weather conditions in Panch Kedar Trek

Weather conditions depend on the time of the year trekkers are travelling. In the months leading up to and following the monsoon season, the daytime temperatures are moderate, but the nighttime temperatures are significantly lower. Monsoons receive moderate to heavy rainfall.

Things to carry in Panch Kedar Trek

1) Because nights at elevations tend to be considerably colder, we suggest having well-graded, warm and comfortable clothing along with good quality shoes.

2) Despite the fact that we handle medical crises, we urge individuals to keep their emergency kits at hand in any case of personal underlying illnesses.

3) Since the journey provides you with a picturesque view of many peaks, don’t forget to bring your camera along with extra batteries.

4) Our staff will consult with fellow trekkers about their luggage and, if lacking, will assist trekkers in obtaining any necessary equipment. Only the relevant luggage should be brought, as a result.

Other trekking Essentials-

Connectivity and Transactions

1) Because connectivity along the route is unpredictable, we urge people to do all of their work ahead of time.

2) Last ATM transactions available will be at Gaurikund But we recommend travelers to collect cash beforehand or while in Rishikesh as ATMs available at other places might not dispense cash at times.

How to Reach in Panch Kedar Trek

If you are travelling from any metropolitan city in India or from outside India, getting to the capital city of Delhi may be the first and most important step. All major modes of transportation, such as air, road, and rail, can take you to Delhi.

Rishikesh is connected to most major cities in India via all chief modes of transportation. Trekkers could perhaps conduct extensive research for their direct mode of transportation to ensure a much smoother arrival.

How to reach Rishikesh from Delhi

By air – Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Rishikesh. It is well connected to Delhi and many chief cities with daily flights. 

By road -Delhi has direct road routes to Rishikesh. Trekkers will have to book either a bus or private cabs. Prior booking for cabs and buses are easily available at various sites.

Delhi>Rishikesh>Gaurikund

By railway – Nearest Railway station to Rishikesh will be Rishikesh Railway station. Since Rishikesh is connected to all major railway routes, trekkers can opt for a direct route or via Delhi. They can also opt for direct trains to Dehradun or Haridwar and the take acab or bus to Rishikesh.

Some important points to note-

• Please note that we don’t provide timings schedules for transportation before Rishikesh. Subjected to various conditions the scheduled timings and availability of particular rides may differ. We recommend trekkers to reach out our teams for any queries. You can drop an email or call us for an initial guided session.
• Our teams will be collecting trekkers at fixed points of airports, railway stations and bus stands.
• It is recommended that unless any delay arrives, trekkers are advised to reach the destinations at least 2 hours prior.

Short itinerary of Panch Kedar Trek

Note: – Our service will remain from Rishikesh to Rishikesh – for more details please check includes or excludes 

Things Himalayan Hikers Recommend

As previously stated, a camera, as well as spare batteries and memory cards, are recommended. We can assure and guarantee that you will be stopping frequently along the trail to observe the grandeur of the trekking experience.

We strongly recommend trekkers to prepare beforehand for the journey ahead. Regular practicing physical fitness and mental endurance will surely assist trekkers in great time.

After the trek, we strongly encourage trekkers to tag us on social media when they post any memories from the trip; this will not only prove invaluable to us with our work, but will also serve as a motivational example for all of our experts.

Why you should choose us

We’re here to give you the greatest experience possible through the eyes of highly skilled and qualified specialists who have a passion for adventure sports. We are community members attempting to promote our favorite adventure sports while also supporting local businesses. We, at Himalayan hikers, dedicate ourselves to providing you with an unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Rishikesh to Sonprayag

Our teams will pick up trekkers at Rishikesh and then they will be taken to Sagar Village. Trekkers can relish in the beauty of the journey. Reach Sagar village and check in to respective hotels and rest for the night. If time allows, trekkers can explore the village and nearby temples.

Day 2 : Gaurikund to Kedarnath

Next day after breakfast teams will be dispatching for Pun Bugyal. The two hour long journey will take trekkers through various sites and shepherd trails. After Pun Bugyal trekkers will be moving forward towards Punar Bugyal where they will be setting up camps for the night. Along the way to Punar Bugyal Hikers will be coming across many glistening streams and pink rhododendron trees. Lay out the tents under the never ending skyline and rest for the day.

Day 3 : Rest day

Day 4 : kedarnath to gaurikund to ransi village, day 5: trek to nanu, day 6: trek to madhmaheshwar, day 7: trek down to ransi village, day 8: tungnath to chandrashila to saggar village, day 9: trek to panar bugyal, day 10: punar bugyal to rudranath, day 11: rudranath to urgum village, day 12: kalpeshwar to urgam, day 13: urgum to rishikesh, mandatory documents, please carry the documents given below.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc, Passport and Visa important to foreigners Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker) Declaration Certificates

Note: –   Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry. It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.

Necessary Items for trekkers

Backpack (50 to 60 liters) A strongly built backpack with good support is compulsory for a trek. (Rain cover is important)

Sturdy Trekking Shoes The shoes should be strong enough with good support. The people ask if sports shoes would be comfortable but it is good to bring the right trekking shoes.

The Clothes You Should Bring On a Trek Avoid keeping extra clothes because it only makes you backpack heavy.

Trek Pants – The jeans are never suitable for a trek so you need at least 2-3 trek pants for treks carry more for longer treks.

Jacket – Jackets are very important to carry on a trek it protects you against the chilly weather. So carry 2 jackets on a week long trek.

Layers of warm Clothing  Carry warm woolen layers or fleece. Carry more layers during winter season (at least 2 to 3) and less during summer.

Thermals – The Temperature decreases at night so you might be need thermals for Night.

T- Shirts – Bring those t shirts which dry fast.

Poncho –They are needed if you are trekking on a Rainy day to keep you dry.

Hiking Pole

Water Bottle 2

Cap or Balaclava

Woolen and Waterproof Gloves

Socks (Woolen and Regular)

Torch head light

Personal Toiletry Items –  (toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitizer etc.)

Carry Personal Medical Kit

Personal Medical Kit (Carry minimum 5 tablets and maximum 10)

Diamox – (Prevents altitude sickness)

Digene – (It cures discomfort in stomach, acidity)

Crocin Advance – (Cures fever and headache)

Aspirin/Combiflam – (Pain reliever)

Disprin – (Cures headache)

Avomine – (Prevents motion sickness)

Avil – (It treat allergies)

Norflox TZ & Lomofen – (Prevents Diarrhoea)

Ranitidine – (Reduces the amount of acid in stomach)

Volini/Moov spray – (For sprains)

Betadine/Savlon – (Antiseptic cream)

Stretchable/Elastic bandage

Note:- Use medicines only when prescribed by the doctor. In case you face any problem during your trek, discuss and take advice from the Professional guide.

Sorry! Here are no Available dates right now. For Any Queries you can Email us with [email protected] and Call Us +91 9756197558

What is Included In This Trek?

Transport Facility from Rishikesh to Rishikesh

Forest Permit and entrance fee

Accommodation in Hotel on twin share basis

All meals: breakfast, packed lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, soup and Dinner

Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication

Good Experience Local Trek Leader guide and Technical guide

Medical Kit

Oxygen Cylinders

What is Not Include In This Trek?

Personal Insurance

Medical Certificate

Personal toiletry Items and Personal Medicine kit

1 review for Panch Kedar Trek

Rajani – April 24, 2022

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• Overview Itinerary Dates Include/Exclude

Panch Kedar - Trek And Yatra

1. kedarnath, architecture and significance of kedarnath temple.

How To Reach Kedarnath

Best time to visit kedarnath.

2. Tungnath

Architecture and significance of tungnath.

How To Reach Tungnath

Best time to visit tungnath.

3. Rudranath

How To Reach Rudranath

Best time to visit rudranath.

4. Madhyamaheshwar

Architecture and significance of madhyamaheshwar.

How To Reach Madhyamaheshwar

Best time to visit madhyamaheshwar.

5. Kalpeshwar

Architecture and significance of kalpeshwar.

How To Reach Kalpeshwar

Best time to visit kalpeshwar.

Formation of Panch Kedar

This post was published by Saumya Bansal

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Panch Kedar Yatra, Uttarakhand 2024

Embark on a spiritual journey with Panch Kedar Yatra in Uttarakhand. Visit five sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva amidst breathtaking Himalayan.

Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, the state of Uttarakhand in northern India is home to a plethora of spiritual treasures. One such sacred pilgrimage circuit that beckons devout Hindus and adventure seekers alike is the Panch Kedar Yatra. This spiritual journey takes pilgrims to five ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva , known as the Panch Kedar, where devotees seek blessings and connect with the divine amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayan region.

The Panch Kedar comprises five temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. These sacred shrines include the first Kedarnath , situated at an elevation of 3583 meters; the Second Madmaheshwar , located at 3490 meters; the Third Tungnath , nestled at 3680 meters; the fourth Rudranath , perched at 2286 meters; and the Last fifth Kalpeshwar , positioned at an altitude of 2200 meters. Pilgrims traditionally visit these temples in the order of their significance. Panch Kedar holds great reverence in India, with the belief that it was established by the Pandavas of the Mahabharata , making it a significant pilgrimage site.

Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand

Madmaheshwar

Panch Kedar Yatra: Embarking on a Spiritual Pilgrimage in the Himalayas

The Panch Kedar Yatra is a pilgrimage circuit comprising five distinct temples, each associated with different episodes from Hindu mythology. These temples are:

1. Kedarnath

The journey begins with Kedarnath, the most renowned of the Panch Kedar temples. Nestled in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Perched at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level, Kedarnath is not only a spiritual haven but also surrounded by awe-inspiring snow-clad peaks. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Kedareshwar, the ‘ Lord of Kedar ,’ and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India.

Kedarnath finds its roots in Hindu mythology, with legends tracing its origin to the Mahabharata. According to the myth, after the great Kurukshetra War, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to absolve themselves of the sins committed during the battle. Lord Shiva, unwilling to forgive them directly, took the form of a bull and disappeared into the ground. Later, his body parts manifested at various locations, and Kedarnath is believed to be the spot where his hump appeared.

The Kedarnath Temple:

The heart of Kedarnath is undoubtedly the Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Kedareshwar. Believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the temple is a masterpiece of ancient architecture and stands against the backdrop of the majestic Kedarnath range. The temple boasts a thousand-year-old architectural marvel, characterized by massive, weighty, and gray stone slabs intricately halved. Housing both a ‘Garbha Griha’ and a welcoming ‘Mandap’ for visitors, the interior of the temple is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva in his Sadashiva manifestation, represented by a conical rock.

The Temple is open for only six months from April to November. The temple opens its doors to devotees during the summer months (May to October) when the region becomes accessible due to favorable weather conditions. After that, Kedarnath stay at Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath for the rest of six months.

How to reach Kedarnath?

Reaching Kedarnath involves a combination of road and trekking. The journey typically starts with a road trip to Gaurikund , the last motorable point. From Gaurikund, a trek of approximately 16 kilometers leads to Kedarnath. Pilgrims can hire local transport to reach Gaurikund from major towns like Haridwar or Rishikesh.

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2. Madmaheshwar

Nestled amidst the spectacular Garhwal Himalayas in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3,490 meters (11,450 feet), Madmaheshwar is a sacred destination that holds deep religious significance for Hindu devotees. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is the second of the Panch Kedar. According to Hindu mythology, this is believed to be the place where the navel (Madhya) of Lord Shiva appeared after he vanished in the form of a bull. The temple stands as a symbol of divine energy and cosmic power, attracting devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva in this unique form.

The Madhyamaheshwar Temple is a small stone structure with a pyramidal roof, nestled in a tranquil meadow surrounded by snow-clad peaks. The idol of Lord Shiva, in the form of a navel-shaped lingam, is enshrined within the temple. The sanctum exudes a spiritual aura, making it an ideal place for meditation and prayer.

The Pilgrimage Journey:

The journey to Madmaheshwar is not just a pilgrimage; it’s an odyssey through stunning landscapes and challenging terrains. Pilgrims embark on a trek that takes them through dense forests, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear streams. The temple welcomes devotees exclusively from April to November, aligning with the favorable weather conditions of the summer months (May to October). Following this period, Madmaheshwar relocates to Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath , where he remains accessible to devotees for the remaining six months.

How to reach Madmaheshwar?

Reaching Madmaheshwar involves a combination of road and trekking. The journey typically starts with a road trip to Ransi Village , the last motorable point. Pilgrims can hire local transport to reach Ransi from major towns like Haridwar or Rishikesh. The trek to Madmaheshwar typically starts from the town of Ukhimath which is 18 km away from Ransi. From Ransi it covers approximately 24 kilometers, passing through picturesque villages like Goundar and Bantoli. The trail is surrounded by rhododendron forests, providing a burst of colors during the blooming season. Trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Chaukhamba , Kedarnath, and Neelkanth peaks along the way.

3. Tungnath

Nestled in the breathtaking Garhwal Himalayas in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Tungnath stands tall as the highest Shiva temple in the world . Tungnath trekking trail winds through lush meadows, and dense forests of rhododendrons and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the majestic Chaukhamba and Kedarnath ranges.

Perched at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), Tungnath holds profound religious importance as the third Kedar of the Panch Kedar, the five holy shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Garhwal region. According to Hindu mythology, the arms of Lord Shiva manifested at Tungnath after he took the form of a bull. The temple is considered a sanctified spot where divinity merges with the pristine beauty of the Himalayan surroundings.

Architectural Marvel:

The Tungnath temple, though modest in size, boasts a distinctive architecture that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. The temple structure, constructed in the Nagara style, is made of stone and stands against the backdrop of the towering mountains. The sanctum sanctorum enshrines the deity in the form of a black stone idol of Lord Shiva.

Adjacent to Tungnath is the temple of Chandrashila , a short trek from the main shrine. Chandrashila, meaning “ Moon Rock “, offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The Tungnath temple welcomes devotees exclusively from April to November, aligning with the favorable weather conditions of the summer months (May to October). Following this period, Tungnath relocates to Makku Math , where he remains accessible to devotees for the remaining six months.

How to reach Tungnath?

The journey typically begins from Haridwar or Rishikesh, where one can hire a cab to reach Chopta , the base camp for Tungnath. The trek to Tungnath begins from Chopta, often referred to as the ‘ Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand ‘. From Chopta a well-marked trekking trail leads to Tungnath, offering a scenic ascent through enchanting meadows and dense forests.

4. Rudranath or Rudra Mahadev

Rudranath, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, stands as a sacred haven and the fourth destination on the Panch Kedar Yatra, a revered pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva. Rudranath is situated at an altitude of 2,286 meters (7,500 feet) above sea level, amidst the tranquil meadows and dense forests of the Garhwal region. The temple is perched atop a ridge and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys.

According to Hindu mythology, Rudranath is believed to be the place where the face of Lord Shiva manifested after he vanished in the form of a bull. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Rudra avatar, the fierce and powerful aspect.

The Rudranath temple, though modest in size, exhibits unique architectural charm. Constructed in the North Indian style, it is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that narrate tales of Hindu mythology. The sacred Shivlinga, representing Lord Shiva, is the focal point of the temple, and the ambiance exudes a serene and mystical aura, creating an ideal atmosphere for prayer and meditation.

The mesmerizing views of the Nanda Devi , Trishul , and Nanda Ghunti peaks contribute to the spiritual and aesthetic appeal of the place. The Rudranath temple opens its doors to devotees exclusively between May and November, coinciding with the favorable weather conditions of the summer months. After this duration, Rudranath shifts to the Gopinath temple in Gopeshwar, remaining accessible to devotees for the remaining six months of the year.

How to reach Rudranath?

Start your Journey with Local Transport from Rishikesh/Haridwar to Gopeshwar which is well connected by road. Sagar Village is 5 km from, take a local taxi and reach Sagar. Reaching Rudranath involves a trek that commences from the village of Sagar, passing through lush meadows, dense forests, and quaint hamlets.

5. Kalpeshwar or Kalpnath

Nestled in the Urgam Valley in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Kalpeshwar is a sacred pilgrimage site. It is Perched at an elevation of 2,200 meters above sea level, the Fifth Kedar of the Panch Kedar temples which is a group of five ancient shrines dedicated to the various forms of Lord Shiva. The hair of the Lord Shiva appeared in this region around which the Kalpeshwar temple was built.

According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that when Lord Shiva Didn’t want to appear in the Pandavas after the Mahabharata, he took the form of a bull. As the Pandavas pursued him, Shiva’s body parts manifested at different locations, which later became the Panch Kedar temples. Kalpeshwar, specifically, is associated with Lord Shiva’s matted hair or ‘ Jata .’ The name ‘Kalpeshwar’ is derived from two Sanskrit words – ‘Kalpa,’ meaning eternity, and ‘Ishwar,’ meaning Lord.

The Sacred Temple:

The Kalpeshwar temple is a small stone structure, surrounded by lush green meadows and dense forests. Unlike other Panch Kedar temples, Kalpeshwar remains open throughout the year, making it accessible to pilgrims even during the winter months. The sanctum sanctorum houses a naturally occurring rock formation that resembles Lord Shiva’s hair.

How to reach Kalpeshwar?

To reach Kalpeshwar, pilgrims can undertake a small Hike starting from Urgam Village, Which is a short road distance from Helang near Joshimath , Uttarakhand. You Should take NH-07 to reach Helang from Rishikesh or Haridwar.

The Formation of Panch Kedar in Uttarakhand

The origins of the Panch Kedar trace back to the great Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. According to mythology, after the battle of Kurukshetra , the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to absolve themselves of the sins incurred (the Pandavas killed their blood relatives and gurus) during the war. Lord Shiva was furious with them due to the dishonesty portrayed by Pandava on the field as a result of which, he dodged their requests and hid in Garhwal Himalayas camouflaged as a bull.

As the Pandavas pursued Shiva, he eluded them by diving into the earth. At five different locations, his body parts manifested, later becoming the Panch Kedar temples. Each temple is associated with a specific body part of Lord Shiva, and thus, the divine journey of the Pandavas unfolded, leading to the creation of these sacred shrines.

First Pandva goes to Kedarnath where the holiest of the Panch Kedar, Kedarnath, houses the hump of the bull, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s presence in the form of a bull. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters, amidst the breathtaking snow-capped peaks.

The second time Pandva finds Shiva at Madmaheshwar, where Shiva appeared as the navel , which stands at an elevation of 3,490 meters. Tungnath is where Lord Shiva’s arms are believed to have appeared. At an elevation of 3,680 meters, It is the highest Shiva temple globally.

After it, at an altitude of 2,286 meters, Lord Shiva appeared in Rudranath; Where The fierce face of Lord Shiva is worshipped. In the end, Lord Shiva appeared at Kalpeshwar; Where his matted hair was worshipped. In this way, Pandavas got the darshan of Lord Shiva and they built temples of Lord Shiva wherever they found him.

Panch Kedar Yatra Itinerary from Haridwar:

In this discussion, we will explore the details of an 11-day and 10-night Panch Kedar Yatra, starting and concluding in Haridwar:

Day 1: Drive Haridwar to Gaurikund

• Depart from Haridwar early in the morning. On the way you with see Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi Town.
• Enjoy the mountain road journey. Reach Gaurikund by evening. Check-in at a hotel and rest.
• Visit the Hot Water Kund (Pond) at Gaurikund. Evening Aarti at Guara Devi temple. Take the Dinner and rest for today.

Day 2: Trek to Kedarnath

• In the early morning begin the trek to Kedarnath (approximately 16 km). On the trek way, you will see Jungle Chatti – Bheembali – Linchauli, and more places. 
• Reach Kedarnath by early evening. Check in the Hotel.
• Visit the Kedarnath Temple for evening Arti.
• Overnight stay in pre-booked accommodation.

Day 3: Kedarnath to Guptkashi

• Get Up early in the morning and Attend the morning Aarti at Kedarnath Temple.
• After visiting the temple, get ready to trek back to Gaurikund.
• Reack Gaurikund and drive to Guptkashi. Overnight stay in Guptkashi.

Day 4: Guptkashi to Chopta

• Get Up early in the morning and Visit the Vishwanath temple at Guptkashi. After spending some time in the temple and getting ready to move.
• Start to drive for Chopta, a picturesque destination known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”.
• Explore Chopta’s natural beauty and relax.
• Overnight stay in Chopta.

Day 5: Chopta to Tungnath and Chandrashila

• Get Up and ready for the day’s adventure. Start Trek to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple.
• Spend some time in the temple, Continue the trek to Chandrashila for breathtaking panoramic views.
• Return to Chopta by evening for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Chopta to Mandal and Rudranath

• Get Up early in the morning and view the beautiful sunrise at Chopta Valley. Take your breakfast and Drive to Sagar Village, the starting point for the Rudranath trek.
• After reaching Sagar, Start your trek to Rudranath. On the trek, you will see Panar Bugyal, and Pitri Dhar, and reach Rudranath early in the evening. Take a rest, and visit the temple.
• Overnight camping (Camping/Dharmshala) in Rudranath.

Day 7: Rudranath to Helang

• Get Up early in the morning and visit Rudranath Temple and nearby Saraswati Kund. Prayer at Temple.
• After that trek back to Sagar Village and drive to Helang for the next destination.
• Overnight stay in Helang/Urgam.

Day 8: Visit Kalpeshwar Temple and Drive Back to Ukhimath

• Drive from Urgam and commence a short hike to Kalpeshwar.
• Visit the Kalpeshwar Temple. and Drive back for Ukhimath.
• Overnight stay in Ukhimath.

Day 9: Drive to Ransi Village and Trek to Madmaheshwar

• Drive a short road distance from Ukhimath to Ransi. After reaching Ransi take a short rest and start your trek to Madmaheshwar.
• On the way, you will see very remote villages Gaundar and Bantoli. Reach Madmaheshwar by the evening and Check in at the hotel or homestay. Go to the Madmaheshwar Temple for evening arti.
• Overnight stay in Madmaheshwar.

Day 10: Trek Back Ransi

• Attend the morning Aarti at Madmaheshwar Temple. After prayer at the temple, take a short hike from the temple to Budha Madmaheshwar, A place where you will see a big bugyal (meadow), a small pond, and Chaukhamba Mountain in front of you.
• Spend a lot of time at Madmaheshwar, trek back to Ransi Village.
• Overnight stay in Ransi.

Day 11: Return to Haridwar

• Early in the morning drive to Haridwar.
• Reach Haridwar by evening.
• Conclude the Panch Kedar Yatra with a sense of spiritual fulfilment.

Panch Kedar Yatra Distance From Haridwar

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Panch Kedar Trek Opening Date 2024

Frequently Asked Questions on Panch Kedar Yatra

What is the panch kedar yatra.

The Panch Kedar Yatra is a religious pilgrimage that involves visiting five temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The five temples are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madmaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.

Which are the five temples in the Panch Kedar Yatra?

The five temples in the Panch Kedar Yatra are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madmaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar. These temples are believed to be associated with different parts of Lord Shiva’s body.

What is the best time to undertake the Panch Kedar Yatra?

The ideal time to undertake the Panch Kedar Yatra is during the summer months, from May to June, and the early autumn months, from September to October. During these periods, the weather is relatively mild, and the trekking routes are accessible.

Is the Panch Kedar Yatra suitable for all age groups?

The Panch Kedar Yatra involves trekking to remote and high-altitude locations, and some physical fitness is required. While it is suitable for people of various age groups, individuals with health issues or those who are not physically fit should consult a doctor before planning the pilgrimage.

What are the accommodation options during the Panch Kedar Yatra?

There are basic accommodation facilities available in the form of guesthouses and ashrams along the trekking routes. Pilgrims are advised to carry their own sleeping bags and basic amenities.

Is there any medical facility available during the Panch Kedar Yatra?

Basic medical facilities are available at certain points along the trek, but it’s advisable to carry a basic first aid kit. Pilgrims with pre-existing medical conditions should consult a doctor before embarking on the journey.

Is the Panch Kedar Yatra open throughout the year?

No, the Panch Kedar Yatra is not open throughout the year, but only Kalpeshwar is open throughout the year. It is typically undertaken during the summer and early autumn months when the weather conditions are favorable. The temples are usually closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, making the trekking routes impassable.

What is the significance of each Panch Kedar temple?

Each temple is associated with a different part of Lord Shiva’s body. Kedarnath is the hump, Tungnath is the arms, Rudranath is the face, Madmaheshwar is the navel, and Kalpeshwar is the hair.

Are there any guidelines or restrictions for the Panch Kedar Yatra?

Pilgrims are advised to obtain necessary permits, follow the designated trekking routes, and respect the local customs and traditions. It’s also important to be aware of the weather conditions and be prepared for the physical challenges of the trek.

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How to Travel Panch Kedar

Panch Kedar Yatra

The Panch Kedar refers to five places of the Shaivite or the five Hindu Holy Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. These five temples of Lord Shiva are located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The Panch Kedar has 5 temples of Lord Shiva namely Kedarnath , Rudranath , Madmaheshwar , Kalpeshwar and Tungnath . Travelling to Panch Kedar needs you to have all the necessary information that includes the details about travelling to the Panch Kedar. The Panch Kedar is a long journey in the Himalayas; it was built by the Pandavas the heroes of the Mahabharata. The Panch Kedar is a minimum journey of 15 to 16 days. To know About How to Travel Panch Kedar keep reading.

Best Time to Travel to Panch Kedar

The Panch Kedar opens for a period of 6 months, generally from the months of April to October. The Best Time to Travel to Panch Kedar is usually in the month of May, June, September and October.

Panch Kedar during winters is closed because of the snow cover. The idol of Lord Shiva from Kedarnath is shifted to Omkareshwar temple at Ukhimath and is worshipped there for the other 6 months. The representational idol of Tungnath is worshipped at Mukkumath. The symbolic image of Rudranath is brought at Gopeshwar and the symbolic idol of Madhyamaheshwar is honored at Ukhimath. It is only Kalpeshwar is open throughout the year.

Although if you are an avid trekker you can go during the winters but you got to be well equipped with food and good trekking gears. Winters in the Himalayas is absolutely ravishing, dolled up with a vegetation and décor which is absolutely incredible.

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How To Visit Panch Kedar

Travelling to Panch Kedar involves travelling through road and by foot both. It is a 16 day long journey which will take you on an expedition in the Himalayas. To travel in the Panch Kedar you can hire a taxi for most part of your journey and trek to the rest of the journey which is to be travelled by foot. You will also have to visit Badrinath to pay homage to Lord Vishnu as a final affirmatory proof by the devotee that he/she has sought blessings of Lord Shiva. Below is a route map that you give you The Panch Kedar travel Details from New Delhi.

Panch Kedar Travel Route Plan

Panch kedar route map, tips to travel at the panch kedar.

• When Travelling to the Panch Kedar, make sure you are physically fit as this journey requires you to be in the optimum state of health.
• Pack the essential things you need in Panch Kedar such as power banks, important medicines, creams, energy bars, heavy to light woolen clothes depending on the travel month you choose.
• The Panch Kedar is open for only 6 months except Rudranath which is accessible throughout the year.
• The Panch Kedar is a long journey to be covered therefore plan your journey early in the mornings to visit all the Panch Kedar on an appropriate time.

With this we wish the divine may shower you with all the divinity. Before travelling to the Panch Kedar make sure you thoroughly go through this Travel Guide of Panch Kedar .

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सभी पंचकेदारों के पैदल ट्रेक की वास्तविक जानकारी प्रदान करने का अनुरोध है।

पंक्ति क्र.3 का कालम 3 में गौरीकुंड से केदारनाथ धाम की यात्रा 5-6 किमी उल्लेखित है जबकि यह पैदल यात्रा वास्तविक रूप से 22 किमी से अधिक की है।

bike se panch kedar yatra kar sakte he?

Hann .. par treks to krne hi padenge on foot ..

Panch kedar yatra konse mahine mai shuru hoti hai or konse mahine mai khatam

Same as Kedarnath Yatra … From Apr-May to Oct-Nov

I’ve to attend Panch Kedar Yatra in june 2023

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