Introduction to the Panch Kedar Yatra

Five Temples of the Panch Kedar Yatra

1. Kedarnath Temple

The most conspicuous and well-known temple in the Panch Kedar Yatra is Kedarnath Temple, also a part of Char Dham Yatra, which stands at an impressive elevation of 3,583 meters. The temple is accessible by road from the pilgrimage cities of Rishikesh and Haridwar through Gaurikund, which is a difficult but rewarding journey. The trip to Kedarnath gives stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and glaciers and grand architecture making it an unforgettable experience for pilgrims. Every year 1000s of devotees come to Kedarnath Temple to offer prayer to Lord Shiva, you can also be part of those pilgrims and seek blessings and spiritual peace.

Also Read: How to go for Chardham Yatra from Delhi

2. Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple is the world's highest Shiva temple, standing at an elevation of 3,680 meters. The temple is accessible via a modest climb from Chopta, a gorgeous site renowned as the 'Mini Switzerland of India' because of its lush green meadows and panoramic views. It is believed that this temple it about 1000 years old with a trekking distance of 3.5 km from Chopta.

Surrounded by serene forests, snow-capped peaks, and pristine alpine landscapes, Tungnath presents serene beauty, offering a sight of rare aesthetic wonder as well as spiritual elevation.

3. Rudranath Temple

The temple is situated at an altitude of 2,285 meters, with a calm and thick forest surrounding the premises. This temple is also surrounded by four kunds (pools) named Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, Tara Kund, and Mana Kund. It is famous for its paranormal activities but nothing horrific yet some miracle stories you must have heard from there. This can be reached by trekking from Sagar village located 20 km from the temple.

4. Madhya Maheshwar Temple

This 4th temple is in the Mansoona village of Garhwal. It is situated at height of 3,497 meters above sea level. From the temple, you can enjoy the astonishing views of the snow peaks of Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, and Neelkanth. The temple can be reached by a trek from Ransi Village at 15 km from the temple. Built-in north Indian architectural style also consists of the shrines dedicated to goddesses Parvati, Saraswati, and Ardhanarishvara. After visiting there you will feel a connection with the divine energy, the water found in the temple premises is believed to be very sacred even a few drops of water are enough for a complete blessing.

5. Kalpeshwar Temple

This is the only temple in Panch Kedar Yatra which you can visit throughout the year. It is the fifth and last temple on the list of Panch Kedar Yatra. Located at an altitude of 2,200 meters, this temple is an easy trek from Hekang village. It is to be believed that it is the place where Lord Shiva’s hair (Jata) appeared. It is built in a Nagara style, where pilgrims seek blessing and inner peace.

Best Time to Visit Panch Kedar Yatra

As per my experience, the ideal time to visit the Panch Kedar Yatra is during the summer months from April to June and the post-monsoon season from September to October. The weather during these months is pleasant with clear skies, traces of snow, and moderate temperature making this trek easily manageable. You can also visit during the monsoon season in July and August, however, you will witness occasional rain and sometimes heavy rain as well making the road prone to landslides. You should avoid the months from November to March, due to harsh weather conditions and heavy snowfall, the routes get blocked making it difficult to trek and pass through.

Travel Itinerary for The Panch Kedar Yatra

Day 1: Begin your Yatra by reaching Haridwar. From here, travel to Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the Panch Kedar Yatra. Haridwar to Gaurikund distance is 230 Km and take 7 hours to reach. Complete the registration process and obtain the necessary permits at the GMVN office. It is mandatory to do the registration and get the permits otherwise you will not be allowed, you can just stay in Guarikund overnight.

Day 2-7: From day 2-7 you must do the trekking of all the temples of Panch Kedar. The route typically starts from the Kedarnath temple followed by Madhyamaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and last with Kalpeshwar. As this trekking involves challenging hikes that will test your physical fitness level you can customize the trip based on your own fitness level. However, in the end, you will be blessed with calmness, peacefulness, a beautiful landscape, divine energy, and many other things that you may not be able to describe in words.

Day 8: After completing the darshan at Kalpeshwar, you can return to Gaurikund or any other pick-up point or town.

Day 9: You can spend this day exploring nearby areas or depending on your travel plan you can return to your home as well.

Travelling Tips for Panch Kedar Yatra

Fitness - Do your regular check-ups before trekking and do some exercise regularly to build stamina and endurance that will help you trek difficult hilly paths.

Packing - Pack warm clothes, raincoats, first aid kits, a torch, toiletries, a walking stick, a camera, water bottles, trekking shoes, gloves, sunglasses, and any necessary medications.

Respect locals - get to know about the local customs and cultures, dress accordingly, remove shoes outside before entering temples, greet and try to communicate nicely with the local people

Environment responsibility - Try to avoid littering, learn some waste management, carry reusable things, and minimize the use of plastics.

Group Tour - For group travelling, book suitable vehicle as per your group size and requirements. Get best deal on tempo traveller booking.