Tucked amidst Uttarakhand’s snow-clad peaks and emerald valleys, Chamoli district is not just a paradise for trekkers—it’s the beating spiritual heart of the Garhwal Himalayas. From ancient temples perched atop rugged ridges to serene ashrams echoing with peace, Chamoli’s sacred sites weave a soulful tale of faith, adventure, and tradition. Let’s explore these gems with the fresh perspective of a local, blending in practical travel tips, drone-worthy vistas, and stories that go far beyond standard lists.

Why Chamoli’s Religious Sites Are Special

Chamoli stands apart for its blend of awe-inspiring nature and profound spirituality. Every village and riverbank whispers ancient stories—from the footfalls of sages to the chants of present-day pilgrims. Visiting these spots isn’t just about rituals; it’s about experiencing divinity in the wild lap of the Himalayas.

Must-Visit Sacred Sites in Chamoli

1. Badrinath Temple

Location: Badrinath Town
Why Visit: The crown jewel of Uttarakhand’s Char Dham, this 8th-century shrine is devoted to Lord Vishnu. The gushing Alaknanda, flanked by snowy Neelkanth, makes every morning here magical.
What to Expect:

• Sudden hush at dawn amid temple bells
• Soothing, sulphur-rich hot springs nearby
• Pilgrims and trekkers from across the globe
  Pro Tip: Visit in late May/September for thinner crowds and clear skies.

2. Hemkund Sahib

Location: At 4,633m, near Valley of Flowers
Why Visit: A high-altitude pilgrimage for Sikhs, where Guru Gobind Singh meditated. Surrounded by glacier-fed lake and seven mountains—nothing short of otherworldly.
What to Expect:

• Steep trek (start from Govindghat; easy pace needed)
• Langar (hot meals) by the lake—divine after the climb
• Rhododendron forests and rare wildflowers on way up
  Pro Tip: Carry warm layers; even in June, it’s freezing.

3. Tungnath Temple

Location: Chopta
Why Visit: Said to be the world’s highest Shiva temple, an easy trek makes it accessible for families and first-timers.
What to Expect:

• Surreal stone temple set against green meadows
• Panoramic drone shots (weather permitting)
• Golden sunrise from Chandrashila peak above
  Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for Himalayan alpenglow.

4. Joshimath

Highlights:

• Shankaracharya Math: Ancient seat of Adi Shankaracharya
• Narasimha Temple: Beloved for legends tied to Badrinath
  Pro Tip: Joshimath is also the gateway for cable car rides to Auli ski slopes.

5. Gopeshwar

Highlights:

• Gopinath Temple: Hemmed by lush valleys; known for its unique trident
• Chandika Devi Temple: Overlooks the Alaknanda, perfect at dusk
  Pro Tip: Less crowded, ideal for quiet meditation and local culture.

Offbeat Sacred Spots

• Kalpeshwar: Last of the Panch Kedar, hidden in Urgam valley, perfect for seekers and photographers.
• Rudranath: Trekking here rewards you with meadows and centuries-old rituals amid the mist.
• Tapovan: Meadows near Joshimath, famous for ashrams and healing hot springs.

What Makes These Sites Unique for Travelers?

• Local Devotion: Witness village fairs, folk performances, and simple hospitality.
• Drone-Ready Scenery: Capture rivers, temples, and forests from unique aerial angles (be sure to follow local drone regulations).
• Adventure + Spirituality: Pair your visit with treks, camping, or river walks.

Practical Tips for Pilgrims & Travelers

• Best Time: May–June & September–October (after monsoon, before snow blocks routes).
• Getting Around: Local shared jeeps, rented scooters, and trails for short walks.
• Stay Local: Homestays and dharamshalas let you experience Uttarakhandi hospitality.
• Participate: Try aarti at dawn, join local festivals, eat at pilgrim kitchens (langar/bhandara).

6. Nanda Devi Temple (Nandprayag, Nauti Village)

Location: Nauti village, near Karnaprayag and Nandprayag
Why Visit: This centuries-old temple is dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi—Chamoli’s most venerated deity. It’s the spiritual focal point for the grand Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, a once-in-12-years pilgrimage that draws devotees from all Uttarakhand.
What to Expect:

• Ornate architecture and Himalayan myths
• Lively celebrations during the annual fair, with traditional music and dance
• Stunning views of terraced fields, with the Alaknanda river in the valley below
  Pro Tip: If you can, witness the Nanda Raj Jat procession—it’s a spectacle of faith, color, and ancient rituals.

7. Bhavishya Badri

Location: 17km from Joshimath, in Subain village
Why Visit: Known as the “future Badrinath,” legends say when Badrinath becomes inaccessible, Bhavishya Badri will take its place as the home of Lord Vishnu. Hidden in a forested glen, it’s one of the Panch Badri temples.
What to Expect:

• A serene atmosphere, surrounded by dense deodar forests
• Small yet revered shrine, with mystical vibes and fewer crowds
• Short uphill trek through rhododendron blooms in spring
  Pro Tip: Combine your visit with stops at Tapovan’s meadows for a meditative Himalayan day.

8. Kalpeshwar Mahadev

Location: Urgam Valley, near Helang on the Badrinath route
Why Visit: The only Panch Kedar temple accessible year-round, Kalpeshwar is where Lord Shiva is worshipped as “Jataadhar” (locks of hair). Its cave-shrine setting invokes ancient Himalayan sages and hermits.
What to Expect:

• Verdant terraced fields and forest scenery
• Quiet, almost mystical aura—ideal for soul-searchers
• Interactions with warm, welcoming villagers
  Pro Tip: Stay a night in Urgam Valley homestays for authentic local flavors and sunrise temple views.

9. Gwaldam Buddhist Gompa

Location: Gwaldam, between Garhwal and Kumaon
Why Visit: While Chamoli is steeped in Hindu and Sikh traditions, Gwaldam’s tranquil Tibetan Buddhist gompa offers a contrasting peace. It’s a center for prayer, festivals, and Buddhist philosophy.
What to Expect:

• Colorful prayer flags fluttering against mountain backdrops
• Monks chanting and sometimes local festivals
• Panoramic vistas—perfect for mindful meditation
  Pro Tip: Early morning or evening is best for a contemplative visit with fewer visitors.

10. Adi Badri

Location: 17km from Karnaprayag, on the way to Ranikhet
Why Visit: A cluster of 16 ancient shrines, believed to date as far back as the Gupta period. Historically, it’s said to be established by Adi Shankaracharya himself as part of the Panch Badri pilgrimage.
What to Expect:

• Archaeological intrigue—see carved stone idols, intricate pillars, and stepped temple structures
• Serene countryside ideal for wandering and photography
• Off-the-tourist-trail peace—great for history lovers
  Pro Tip: Pair your trip with a visit to the riverside confluence at Karnaprayag for a complete devotional day.

Final Thoughts

Chamoli’s temples and sacred sites aren’t just stops on a pilgrim trail—they’re windows into the soul of Uttarakhand and living proof of how faith and nature intertwine. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, trekker, or an explorer with a camera, Chamoli’s sacred places promise inspiration and serenity in equal measure.

Pack your bags, keep your heart open, and let your Chamoli story begin!

By adding these lesser-known yet powerful religious sites, your Chamoli journey transforms into a spiritual odyssey weaving grand temples, secluded shrines, and vibrant local traditions—all set in the mighty Himalayas. Whether you walk with pilgrims, join village festivals, or simply breathe in the purity of these ancient sites, each visit becomes an unforgettable chapter in your own Uttarakhand story.

Kalpeshwar is one of the historic Shiva temples in Uttarakhand. It is the last and 5th Panch Kedar temple where lord Shiva is worshipped. It is located in the Urgam Valley of Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Furthermore, it is tKalpeshwar Mahadev temple is the only temple among all the Panch Kedar that remains open throughout the year and the easiest Panch Kedar temple to reach. So you can visit Kalpeshwar temple in any month of the year. The Matted hairs or Jata or Lord Shiva are worshipped inside this temple.

The Urgam Valley is so beautiful and it feels like you are in heaven. For photographers and content creators, this valley is a jackpot. Below are some drone shots of Urgam Valley and Kelpeshwar Mahadev Temple.

Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of matted hair at Kalpeshwar temple, and the trail to this sacred shrine goes through thick and lush green forests. There is one old tree near the temple known as the Kalpvriksha tree, and according to Hindu mythology, it is said that this tree is wish-granting.

Kalpeshwar temple is one of the best destinations to visit in Chamoli, Uttarakhand. You can visit here with your friends’ family as well as solo.

Here is the complete Kalpeshwar Temple Travel guide, mythological importance and travel tips.

Why Visit Kalpeshwar?

If you love trekking and believe in Lord shiva and want to meditate in one of the ancient shiva temples, then you must visit Kalpeshwar. For trekking enthusiasts and devotees, Kalpeswar trek offers stunning views of nature and the untouched valley. You are going to love the Kalpeshwar trek.

You can see the old Kalpvriksha tree here and wish for something you want to achieve in your life.

How to reach Kalpeshwar Temple, Chamoli

The Kalpeshwar trek starts from the Urgam village, which is near Joshimath. Where the buoyant Kalpganga river flows in eternity. This beautiful area has many sprawling apple orchards and potato farms. You can also purchase Pahadi potatoes and Apples from the villagers at a very cheap rate.

Earlier the route to Kalpeshwar was from Helang to Kalpeshwar via Urgam Valley, having a trek distance of 10 Km. But not you can reach here by road because of the road infrastructure in Uttarakhand now it is now well-connected by road.

Now the Kalpeshwar trek is just 1 Km because jeepable roads are available from Helang to Urgam. So we can say it is an easy-grade trek in Uttarakhand. You must visit Kalpeshwar once for sure, You can also hire a taxi from Garhwali Traveller for your journey to any destination in Uttarakhand.

You can also visit the Budha Kedar temple, Dhyan Badri and the Sapt Badri temple or the Seven Badri’s that are in the proximity of Kalpeshwar.

Activities to do in Kalpeshwar

Pilgrimage

Kalpeshwar temple is one of the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand. Kalpeshwar is visited by thousands of devotees and pilgrims, mostly Shaivites or devotees of Lord Shiva.

Camping

You can camp and have a night campfire at night, just near the temple. There is a big ground and you can go camping there. Also, you can camp in the deep forest along with the guide. There are plenty of camping agencies you can contact with them and check their rates. For camping in Kalpeshwar contact us directly.

Photography

Kalpeshwar offers mesmerizing views of some of the great Himalayan peaks and other mountains. There are beautiful locations nearby Kalpeshwar temple, where you can take creative and awesome photos. Also, Urgam Valley and Helang are the best destinations for photography lovers.

Urvashi temple is an ancient temple of goddess Urvashi devi located in the Badrinath region of Chamoli district. Devi Urvashi was created from the left lotus thigh of Lord Vishnu(Narayana) in Badrikashrama.

This temple is located just 1.5 Km away from the Badrinath temple on the holy bank of river Alaknanda in the Bamini village. If you are in Badrinath then you must consider visiting this temple also, it is easily accessible by walking.

The Urvashi temple is set against the backdrop of Urvashi Parvat, Narayana Parvat and Nilkanth Parvat. There is also a beautiful waterfall of Rishi Ganga which enhances the beauty of this location. From here you can see the panoramic views of Nara Parvata along with other snow-capped peaks and mountains. If you are a nature lover then you are going to love this place. Urvashi temple is one of the best places to visit nearby Badrinath and Mana village.

Vedic History of Urvashi Temple

The Urvashi Temple is located at the site where Devi Urvashi appeared from the thighs of Lord Vishnu(also known as Narayana). Lord Narayana was engaged in penances here along with Nara.

The 4th canto of holy Bhagwad Purana explains the appearance of Sri Nara – Narayana as the son of Dharma Prajapati and his wife Murti Devi.

After the appearance of Sri Nara – Narayana at this place, the entire world was in a joyous mood and there was absolute serenity everywhere.

There were celebrations all around the world and on different planets. The Kinnaras and Gandharvas sang while the Apsaras danced. Flowers were showered from heaven and all the devtas including Lord Brahma were delighted and came forward to express their happiness.

Devtas offered prayers to please Sri Narayana and the Lord accepted their prayers.

The king of Devtas Indra thought that Lord Narayana wanted to take over his kingdom. To counter this he sent some beautiful apsaras from his court. Apsaras are celestial beauties found in the upper planetary system of the universe. Whose job is to entertain the devatas through their dances.

After the apsaras arrived at this place where Lord Narayana was engaged in penances, they started seducing them with their exciting dances and moves to disturb them after the order of king Indra. But Sri Nara – Narayana was already alert about this.

After that Lord Narayana touched his lotus thigh from which a beautiful woman appeared and after seeing that woman the apsaras were ashamed of their own beauty and activity.

Sri Narayana conveyed that they have not interested in taking over the throne of Indra and they are doing penances only for spiritual realization.

The beauty who appeared from the thigh of Lord Narayana was named “Urvashi”.

After that, she was sent to the court of King Indra along with other apsaras on the order of Sri Nara – Narayana.

Urvashi temple was built here to honour this Lila of Lord Narayana.

The architecture of Urvashi Devi Temple

The architecture of the temple is simple as usual other common local Hindu temples we see in different parts of India. The simple architecture of the temple is based on the Nagara style of architecture found in north India. This temple is so simple in architecture, the same as the other temples we see in northern India.

A small shikara stands over the sanctum, a big brass bell marks the entrance of the temple.

There are two big decorated pillars at the entrance of the temple. Inside the Urvashi temple, there is a huge hall where devotees can come and have darshan and perform pujas.

Urvashi Devi temple timings

Urvashi temple remains open throughout the day. Devotees can visit the temple for darshan at any time from 7 AM to 8 PM.

Best time to visit Urvashi temple

The best time to visit the Urvashi temple is from May to June and September to October. We recommend you avoid visiting in monsoons.

How to reach Urvashi temple

Once you reached Badrinath town, visit Badrinath temple first and then you can visit the Urvashi temple. The cheapeast and easiest way to reach Urvashi temple is via the road network. Badrinath Dham is well-connected to the national and state highways, so you will not face any problems in finding vehicles to the Dham.

By Road

Badrinath Dham is well-connected to all the major cities of Uttarakhand via bus and cab services. You can get a bus directly from Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Haridwar.

By Train

The nearest railway station is at Rishikesh, which is approx 289 Km from Badrinath. Within a few years, you can reach Karnaprayag via train. But for the time being, the nearest railway station is in Rishikesh.

By Air

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant International Airport. From Dehradun, you can take a helicopter to Gauchar and then the rest of the journey is possible only via road network.