CategoriesTop-Destinations Lakes Treks By garhwalitraveller

Roopkund Trek How to Reach and Places to See

Roopkund Trek Travel Guide and Route

If you are planning to trek in Uttarakhand, the Roopkund trek is a must-do! The trek is filled with deep virgin forests, breathtaking campsites, miles of undulating meadows, snow and ice and the taste of great adventure as you climb from 8000 feet to 16, 000 feet in seven days to nine days.

Roopkund Lake – A Mysterious Lake (Skeleton Lake)

Roopkund is also known as Mystery Lake, since human skeletons and remains of horses from the Paleolithic age were found here. Roopkund is located at the base of Trishul peak and Nanda Ghunti. The lake is nestled amidst panoramic mountain scenery, surrounded by the rock-strewn glacier. Roopkund lake remains frozen for almost all the months of the year. The skeletons around Roopkund are believed to be 500 to 600 years old. While travelling to Roopkund you got a chance to trek through villages rich in Pahadi culture.

Roopkund is one of the most popular treks in India. The Roopkund trail climbs out of splendid dark green forests, suddenly bursting into Ali and Bedni Bugyal, India’s most beautiful high-altitude meadows. Climbing on snow to the Roopkund trek is a heart-pounding thrill. 

Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra

The great Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is held every 12 years from Nauti village near Karanprayag city to Homkund near Roopkund. The whole yatra is dedicated to Goddess Devi Nanda. Many people from Garhwal and Kumaon region take part in this tough Yatra.

Many stories are also there about the mystery of the Human skeletons of Roopkund. According to research, it was indicated that people from the 12th century to the 15th century died here.

How to reach Roopkund?

The starting point of the Roopkund Trek is Lohajang Pass, which is well-connected to roads. The trek from Bedni Bugyal to Roopkund Trek is difficult and is meant for those who are properly geared up and have prior trekking experience and also easy for Pahadi guys. Roopkund is situated 14 Kms from Bedni Bugyal.

Roopkund Travel Tips

Travelling in Monsoons should be avoided because due to heavy rainfall in the hilly areas of Uttarakhand you can face problems, roadblocks and landslides.

Avoid hiking alone in the Himalayas. Inform someone in your family or friends about your trek and let them know when the trek will begin and end.

Staying in Roopkund

Being a remote area, there are no hotels and restaurants at Roopkund. The trekkers take tents along with them and camp along the trail when they halt at night.  Few budget accommodation facilities are available at Wan, which is the last habitable village on the trek.

You will find GMVN Guest House in Wan, which is the last point where the accommodation facility can be found while travelling to Roopkund. During the remaining trekking route, you must carry your own camping equipment and tents for accommodation.

Delhi to Roopkund Travel Route

Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Karnaprayag – Lohajang Pass – Trek (34 Kms) – Roopkund.

Trek Guide Roopkund

Day 1:

It takes up to 10 to 100 hours from Kathgodam to Lohajung. After the glimpse at Tharali, the sight of Mt Nanda Ghunti welcomes you to Lohajung. A beautiful village with wonderful views of Didina valley. Lohajung is a nerve centre of 12 to 15 villages.

Altitude: 7,700 ft(2,347 m)

Time Taken: 10 to 11 hours from Kathgodam

Day 2: Drive from Lohajung to Wan – Trek to Ghairoli Patal

Trail Type: Initially 30 to 45 minutes ascent to Ran Ka Dhar followed by a 20 minutes descent to the Neel Ganga river. A climb of 3 hours from Neel Ganga river to Ghairoli Patal.

Water sources: Carry sufficient water together from Lohajung refill your water bottles at Neel Ganga.

Time Taken: 1-hour continuous drive to Wan and plus 4-hour trek from Wan to Ghairoli Patal.

Altitude: Drive from 7,700ft(2,347 m). Trek starts from 8000ft(2,438 m) to 10,000ft(3,048 m).

Day 3: Ghairoli Patal to Bedni Bugyal

Altitude: 10,000ft(3,048 m) to 11,500ft(3,505 m).

Trek Type: Stiff climb for about 2 hours to Ali Bugyal followed by a gentle trek to Bedni Bugyal.

Water sources: None, carry a minimum of 2 litres of water from the campsite.

Time took: 2 hours minimum (depends on your strength and fitness).

Day 4: Excursion to Bedni Top

Altitude: 11,500ft(3,505 m) to 12,000ft(3,719 m).

Trek Type: Steep climb to Bedni Top.

Water sources: None, carry at least 2 litres of water from the campsite.

Time took: 1 hour.

Day 5: Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachuni

Altitude: 11,500ft(3,505 m) to 12,700ft(3,871 m).

Trek Type: Easy grade climb at the beginning to a saddle, followed by a gradual descent to Patar Nachauni.

Water sources: None, carry 2 liters water from the campsite.

Time Taken: 4 hours(depends upon your strength).

Day 6: Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa

Altitude: 12,700ft(3,871 m) to 14,100ft(4,298 m).

Trek Type: 3 hours sleep ascent to Kalu Vinayak followed by a gradually descending trail to Bhagwabasa.

Water sources: None, carry at least 2 litres of water from the campsite.

Time took: 5 Hours

Day 7: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund to Junargali – Return to Patar Nachauni via Bhagwabasa

Altitude: 14,100ft(4,298 m) to 15,750ft(4,800 m) to 16,000ft(4,877 m) at Junargali and down to 12,000ft(3,719).

Trek Type: Gradual ascent to Roopkund with the last 20 minutes consisting of steep switchbacks. After that 20 to 25 minutes steep climb to Junargali. Tricky descent on the switchbacks from Roopkund and descending trek to Patal Nachuani.

Water sources: None, carry at least 2 litres of water together from the campsite always and refill your water bottles from Patal Nachauni.

Time Taken: 3 hours approx to Roopkund + 2.5 hours return to Bhagwabasa +3.5 hours return to PatalNachuani

Tourist Places to visit in Roopkund

Bedni Bugyal: Bedni Bugyal is the most scenic spot on route Roopkund, which offers the best views of the mighty Trishul Parvat(7, 120 metres). Ali Bugyal is a vast expanse of green meadows with coniferous trees on the slopes. Both Bedni Bugyal and Ali Bugyal act as perfect camping spots while trekking to Roopkund.

For what Roopkund is famous for?

  • Roopkund is famous for Mysterious Lake and Trekking.
  • A recommended destination for Foreigners and Groups.
  • Roopkund is a popular destination for the activities/interests – Adventure, Trekking

Overview  Roopkund

  • Roopkund trek starting point: Lohjang Pass
  • Location: Chamoli Garhwal
  • Trek Distance: 38 Kms
  • Trek Grade: Tough
  • Trek Duration: 7 Days
  • Altitude Range: 4900 meters
  • Famous for: Mysterious Lake, Trekking
  • Best times to visit Roopkund: May, June, July, August, September and October
deoriatal lake
CategoriesTop-Destinations Lakes Treks By garhwalitraveller

DeoriaTal Lake Travel Guide Rudraprayag Uttarakhand

Deoriatal Lake

Deoriatal Lake is one of the beautiful lakes of Uttarakhand. It is a pristine lake in the Ukhimath area of Rudraprayag district. It is a popular place to visit in Rudraprayag. Deoriatal is a beautiful lake situated at a height of, 2438 meters above sea level. In the early morning time on a clear day, Deoriatal blesses the tourists with miraculous reflections of Chaukhamba Peaks on its crystal clear water.

DeoriaTal is an easy trek for beginners. If you want to extend the trek you can also trek to Bisuri Tal, Chopta via Rohini Bugyal and even to the Tungnath Trek and Chandrashila Trek.

Why is Deoriatal Famous?

The beauty of this translucent lake attracts visitors from all around the world. DeoriaTal falls under the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary, in the early morning, you can see a

The lake is situated up into a lush green inclined field surrounded by dense green forest. DeoriaTal is a popular trekking destination in the region because of its ease of access and natural scenic beauty. DeoriaTal lies in the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary region. Therefore, an overnight stay at DeoriaTal is recommended.few animals near the lake. This beautiful and majestic lake offers a panoramic view of Chaukhamba, Neelkantha, Bandarpunch, Kalanag Peaks and Kedar Ranges.

At DeoriaTal there are two things to experience, the first one being the real world and the other one being the reflection of the beautiful surroundings on the lake.

The lake is situated up into a lush green inclined field surrounded by dense green forest. DeoriaTal is a popular trekking destination in the region because of its ease of access and natural scenic beauty. DeoriaTal lies in the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary region. Therefore, an overnight stay at DeoriaTal is recommended.

Activities to do in DeoriaTal

Other than trekking, Deoriatal Lake is a perfect picnic, destination. Devariyatal is an easy trekking destination in the Himalayas rather than a tourist paradise. There is not much more sightseeing available at Deoria Tal apart from the majestic Himalayan peaks that are visible from Deoriatal like Chaukhamba, Sumeru, Meru and Kedar Dome and some more.

Camping: Deoriatal is an ideal location for camping with friends and family. Camping just beside the lake is an amazing and peaceful experience. The reflection of Chaukhamba peak can be seen clearly on the Deoriatal.

Trekking: The trekking route to Deoria Tal is easy to medium grade. The 2 Km trek offers some breathtaking bird-eye views of Saari village and its lush green fields.

Village Tourism: Sari is the last village before the Deoria Tal trek starts. You can walk around the village and learn about their way of lifestyle and culture. The people are warm and welcoming.

Bird Watching: The meadows, lake water, jungle and secluded location make it a habitat for various species of birds. You will see many birds in the proximity of the lake itself. Many wildlife photographers and bird watchers come here every year.

Deoria Tal Travel Tips

Deoria Tal trek is an easy, medium-grade travel route, it is just a 2 Km trek from the last Saari village. The location is perfect for trekkers, groups, kids and families also.

Littering in and around the lake is a punishable offense and visitors, and trekkers must take extra care of nature not to pollute the lake and location.

DeoriaTal Lake comes under the preview Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. So, follow the proper guidelines outlined by forest authorities to protect the region.

Staying in Deoria Tal

Deoriatal lake is a very beautiful Tal (pond) at a height of 2,400 meters in Uttarakhand. Due to its pristine nature, camping is allowed at Deoria Tal under the vigilance of forest officials there. A forest rest house is available for staying at Deoria Tal. One has to trek 2 Km downhill from Devriyatal to Sari village to find accommodation. Few budget guesthouses are available there.

Food Guide Deoria Tal Trek

There are small shops located some 100 meters away from the lake where food items are prepared and served. The shacks have limited food items and a menu, so you would have to manage. Food facilities are also available in Sari village, where local food joints and restaurants are available. Packaged food can also be carried to Devriyatal, but make sure not to leave the waste there.

Overview Deoria Tal

  • Location: Rudraprayag, Garhwal
  • Deoriatal Trek, Distance: 3 km
  • Trek starts from Saari Village
  • Altitude range: 2438 meters
  • Trek Grade: Easy
  • Nearest Railway station: Rishikesh, 194 Kms
  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (208 Kms)
  • Recommended Stay: 2 Days
  • Best times to visit Deoria Tal Trek: Jan, Feb, March, April, May, June, September, October, Nov and December (Throughout the year)
CategoriesTemples Top-Destinations Treks By garhwalitraveller

Activities to do in Kartik Swami – Travel Guide

Activities to do in Kartik Swami

As you all know that Kartikswami is famous for the Lord Kartikey temple but there is a lot more to do when you visit there. The following activities you can enjoy while traveling to Kartikswami.

Trekking: Kartikswami is 3 Km far away from the road. We can reach easily thereby trekking the route in about an hour. There are reddish forests of Buransh all over the route, which makes the journey more beautiful. There are many scenes in between the trek to view the other far villages and the Himalayan Range.

trekking in kartikswami


Camping: In Kartikswami there are many places for camping, you can enjoy camping with your family and friends. So come here once and spend some quality time in the lap of nature. The views of Chaukhamba Peak, Neelkanth and Dronagiri Parvat(Peak) can be seen from Kartikswami.

camping in kartikswami


Bird Watching: Kartikswami is a paradise for birdwatchers. As there are more than 150 plus bird species found here which includes Golden eagle, Steppe eagle, Black eagle, Bearded Vulture, Himalayan Snowcock and the Himalayan Monal is also seen here. There are many more species of birds found here.

Village Tourism: For village tourism, Kanakchauri is the base starting point of the Kartikswami trek you can also enjoy there.


Travel Tips Kartik Swami

  • The best time to visit or travel to Kartikswami is from the month of October to June. At that time the weather becomes awesome and you can enjoy the 360-degree view of snow-covered Himalayan Ranges during the months of October and November.

  • There are no many places to stay, you can stay in the Ashrams of the Kartikswami and the second option for stay is Kanakchauri Village where Mayadeep Holiday Home and 2 more residences. You can also stay in the nearest towns like Karanprayag where Krishna Palace and many more hotels are there.

  • If possible don’t miss the beautiful sunset from Kartikswami. It feels so good and peaceful.

Where to Stay in Kartik Swami

Kanakchauri is the only village near Kartikswami after the Ashrams where you can stay. Mayadeep Holiday Home is the newly build eco-lodge in Kanakchauri which is built from the bamboos. It provides Bamboo huts with all the needed facilities for the tourists who stay here. From here you can enjoy the view of Garhwal Village life and Culture.

If you stay in the Aashram which is managed by the priests of Kartikswami, you have to carry the basic food items like flour, tea, rice, and some other you want to carry along with you. You can also stay in the nearest town which is Karanprayag and then Gauchar but Karanprayag is less far from here so we recommend staying in Karanprayag.

CategoriesTop-Destinations Panch Kedar Treks By garhwalitraveller

Rudranath Trek- Travel Guide and How to Reach

Rudranath – The Toughest Panch Kedar

Rudranath, the highly revered temple of Lord Shiva situated peacefully in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is situated at a height of 3400 meters from sea level.  It is the fourth time the Panch Kedar Pilgrimage to visit. The temple is located inside the rhododendron forests and the alpine meadows.

The adventurous trek to Rudranath can be started from Helang, Urgam Village and Sagar Village. Rudranath trek is the toughest one in comparison to other Panch Kedars. The Himalayan peaks adding luster to Rudranath are Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.

Why visit Rudranath Trek?

The trekking route to Rudranath offers the awesome beauty of nature, inspiring views and the deep gorges that make the way to Rudranath more interesting and enjoyable. Rudranath temple is one of the toughest temples in comparison to other Panch Kedars, but it is worth the pain as one can see the glorious Trishul, Nanda Devi and Nanda Ghunti peaks. The route passes through the wild grassy Bugyals(Meadows), thick woodlands and the awesome inspiring beautiful views of the Himalayas.

You can include in the morning aarti that takes place at 8 AM and the evening aarti that takes place at 6.30 PM every day. Sit beside the Vaitrani River also known as the Water of Salvation(मोक्ष) and feel the music of the flowing water of the river.

There are three different routes to reach Rudranath and every trek offers different landscapes and beauty of the Himalayas and nature. There is a very famous statement about the Rudranath trek by the local people, “Rudranath ki Chadai” or “Germany ki Ladai”.

Activities to do in Rudranath

First, the Rudranath trek is an approx 18 Km route, so the first activity for the visitors is a long Yatra. While trekking, explore the beautiful region of the Punar Bugyal and Lyuti Bugyal. Rudranath temple is surrounded by small pools named Surya Kund, Tara Kund, Chandra Kund and Manas Kund.

Travel Guide and Tips for Rudranath Trek

Due to heavy snowfall the temple remains closed from November to April.

The morning aarti in Rudranath temple starts at 8 AM and the evening aarti starts at 6.30 PM every day.

The trek leading to Rudranath is risky, challenging and tough, and rewarding.

It is advised to have an experienced guide who will have a good knowledge of the routes and you won’t lose your route

It is advised to check the routes and the weather conditions before starting your journey.

Trekking Routes for Rudranath Trek

There are three different routes to reach Rudranath here they are:

Route 1: Helang- Urgam- Kalpeshwar – Dumak – Bansi Narayan – Panar – Rudranath

Route 2: Sagar Village – Liti Bugyal – Panar Bugyal – Pitradhar –  Rudranath

Route 3: Mandal village – Aanasuya Devi Temple – Hansa Bugyal – Naola Pass – Rudranath

Accommodation in Rudranath

As Rudranath is situated at a higher altitude, so there are no hotels and restaurants there are ashrams maintained by the temple committee. Tourists can also carry their own camping equipment like tents etc, they can camp near the temple under the clear night sky. Accommodation options are available at Punar Bugyal, Sagar Village, Lyuti Bugyal and Urgam.

Food Guide Rudranath

Rudranath is at a height of 2200 meters, so there are no hotels or restaurants. The only option for food items and meals is to carry them with you. You can carry snacks and packaged food.

But remember, don’t throw the poly bags and other stuff here and there. Please bring them with you.

For what Rudranath is Famous?

Rudranath is famous for the Shiv Temple, Panch Kedar, Trekking and Meadows.

Rudranath is a recommended destination for Solo, Couples, Friend groups and for all.

Rudranath is popular for the following activities: Panch Kedars, Pilgrimage, Shiva Temple, Trekking, Yoga and Meditation, Religion and National monuments.

CategoriesTop-Destinations Panch Kedar Treks By garhwalitraveller

Tungnath Trek – Travel Guide Tungnath

Tungnath – The Highest Shiva Temple in the World

Tungnath is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand on Chandranath parvat at a height of 3680 meters above sea level. It is the highest temple of Lord Shiva in the world. Tungnath is one of the sacred Panch Kedar.

Mythology and History about Tungnath

The mythological background of Tungnath Temple relates to the epic Mahabharata. Vyas Rishi told the Pandavas they killed their own brothers in the war of Mahabharata and they were guilty of doing this, Rishi told their sins would be expiated only if Lord Shiva pardoned them. Pandavas began in search of Lord Shiva in Kashi but Shiva ignored them and went in the Himalayas.

Pandavas went behind Shiva in the Himalayas, to escape from Pandavas Shiva took the form of a Bull and took refuge underground. The places where the parts of the Bull(Nandi) have appeared are now renowned Shiva Temples, and these temples are known as sacred Panch Kedars. Tungnath temple is the place where the hands(bahu) of the Bull(Nandi) were seen.

How to Reach Tungnath?

Tungnath is a 3 Km mid-level trek which starts from Chopta valley from the main market of Chopta. There is a big temple gate which is clearly visible and you can start your trekking to Tungnath. Once you reached Tungnath another 1.5 Km trek from Tungnath takes you to the Chandrashila summit which offers a beautiful view of snow-covered Himalayan ranges including Chaukhanba, Nanda Devi and Trishul.

Accommodation in Tungnath?

There are plenty of resorts and hotels in Chopta where you can stay as tungnath temple area is not suitable and permitted for construction so you have to trek down to Chopta and there you will find a stay and food facility.

For what Tungnath is famous for?

Tungnath is famous for Shiva Temple, Panch Kedar, Bugyals, and Trekking.

Tungnath is recommended as a destination for Solo, Family and Kids, Couples, Friend groups and all.

Tungnath is famous for the following activities: Panch Kedar, Pilgrimage, Trekking, Shiva Temples, Winter Trek winter destination, Adventure, and Beauty of Nature.

Tungnath Overview

  • Temperature: 10 (Max) and -4 (Min) in March
  • Location: Rudraprayag, Garhwal
  • Stay (Recommended): 1 Day
  • Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh (211 Km)
  • Nearest Airport: Jollygrant Airport, Dehradun (225 Km)
  • Famous for: Shiva Temple, Trekking, Panch Kedar, Meadows
  • Best times to visit: April, May, June, September, October and November
CategoriesTop-Destinations Temples Treks By garhwalitraveller

Kartik Swami Temple Travel Guide

Kartik Swami Temple History

The old legends said that once Lord Shiva told their sons Lord Ganesh and Lord Kartik one of them will get married first whoever comes first after taking the whole round of the earth(Universe). Lord Kartik Started his journey but Ganesh showed his intelligence and they rounded off around his mother Parvati and Father Shiva by saying that father and mother are the whole universes and I have completed the round.

Shiva was impressed by the intelligence of his son Ganesh and gave the privilege to be worshipped first. After completing the whole round of the Universe when Lord Kartik returns they get angry, lord Shiva tells all the story and says that talk to your mother because she has given advice to Ganesh that father and mother are the Universe for all.

Parvati gave him the knowledge before and not to you. After that Lord Kartik gave the flesh(skin) to the mother Parvati and bones to his father Shiva. In the Kartik Swami temple, bones of Lord Kartikeya(Kartik) are shown in an idol. So this was the complete story of Kartik Swami. Let’s know more about the holy Kartikswami temple.

About Lord Kartikey

Kartik Swami, is also known as the lord of War and Victory. They are also known as Morgan(Murugan) Swami(In Tamil Nadu) and in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, they are known as Subramanya and Kartikeya in the Bengal region.

Lord Kartik is also known as Lord Murugan, Skanda, Kumara, Subramanya, Kartikeyan, Karthik, Kartik in various regions of India and in the world. Kartikeya is particularly popular and predominantly worshipped in South India and also in other countries like Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Bangkok. Malaysia as Morgan God.

Kartik Swami Temple in Rudraprayag

The Kartik Swami Temple is located in the Rudraprayag district, at 3050 meters from sea level, and is located on a marble-type rock that is naturally built. From the temple, you can see a 360-degree view of the Himalayan Range(Himalayas). This place offers both views of snow peaks and the lower Himalayas.

Kartik Swami Temple Location and How to Reach

Kartikswami temple is dedicated to the elder son of Lord Shiva, who was Lord Kartik. Kartik Swami is located in the Rudraprayag District of Uttarakhand. The trek to Kartikswami starts from Kanakchauri Village and offers 360-degree views of the Himalayas(snow peaks and lower Himalayas).

Start your journey from Rishikesh to Rudraprayag, then to Kartikswami.

Read the complete guide on how to reach Kartik Swami Temple.

Places to See in Kartik Swami

There are not many more places to see in Kartik Swami, but there is 1 tourist spot in Kartik Swami where travelers and visitors can spend their time and enjoy there. Here you will find the list of places of all Kartik Swami sightseeing options which you must visit. Explore the hidden Gems of Kartik Swami through this well-researched list, and learn about the most happening places, there are many picnic places and Ashrams where you can enjoy your time.

Kanakchauri

Kanakchauri is a small village located on the Karanprayag – Pokhari road, which is approximately 41.8 Km away. The distance will be covered approximately within 1 hour and 30 to 35 minutes. Kanakchauri is the starting point for the trek to Kartik Swami Temple. If you are planning to visit Kartik Swami then there are some best hotels in Kanakchauri where you can stay at budget prices.

Kartik Swami Overview

  • Best time to visit Kartik Swami – January, February, March, April, May June, October, November and December
  • Journey Starts from – Kanakchauri Village
  • Trek Distance – 3 Km
  • Trek Grade –  Easy for Pahadi and Medium for Others
  • Trek Duration – Same day
  • Altitude Range – 3050 meters
  • Location – Rudraprayag(Garhwal)
  • Recommended Stay – 1 day at least
  • Railway Station Nearest – Rishikesh(175Km)
  • Nearest Airport – Gauchar(40 Km), Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun(222 Km)
  • Famous for – Kartikswami Temple, Trekking, Nature Beauty, Bird Watching, Sunset, Sunrise, Himalayan Views.
CategoriesChar-Dhams Top-Destinations Treks By garhwalitraveller

Kedarnath Trek Travel Guide and How to Reach

Kedarnath – Shiv Temple at Kailasha

Kedarnath is one of the holy Hindu towns located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. The original temple was constructed by the Pandavas, and then it was later renovated by the Adi Guru Shankracharya in the 8th century. It is one of the char dham of Uttarakhand which is at an altitude of 3584 meters above sea level in the Himalaya(Kailash) near the head of the Mandakini river. The Kedarnath lies in between the snow-covered Himalayan ranges and thousands of tourists visit here.

Due to heavy snowfall in winter, the temple remains open for a few months from last April to November. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Baba Kedar or Lord Shiva. In Kedarnath, there are more than 200 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Mythology and History about Kedarnath Temple

There is a very famous mythology by Hindus related to the origin of the Kedarnath, which states that after the war of the Kurukchetra(final war of Mahabharata), Pandavas went for an anonymous journey to beg for mercy from Lord Shiva advised by Lord Krishna. So before seeking salvation, Pandavas went to Kashi to meet Lord Shiva.

But Lord Shiva wasn’t willing to meet the Pandavas. Shiva avoided meeting Pandavs at Kashi and took the form of Bull(Nandi) and went away to the Himalayas.

Pandavas went behind Lord Shiva to chase Shiva and they reached Kedarnath where Bhima tried to catch it and hit its hind part with his mace. The bull(Nandi) is immersed in the earth. The parts of the bull appeared in different places. It is believed that the Hind part of the bull was caught by the Bhim from which a Jyotirlinga and Lord Shiva appeared in front of Pandavas. After taking the blessings of Lord Shiva, they told Pandavas from now onwards I will be present here as a triangular-shaped Jyotirlinga, which is now the Kedarnath temple.

The other four parts of the bull(Nandi), Lord Shiva fell at Rudranath, Madhmaheshwar, Tungnath and Kalpeshwar and these places were named Panch Kedar.

Travel Guide for Your Journey to Kedarnath

If you are a known traveler who doesn’t know about the routes of Kedarnath here is the complete travel guide for your journey to Kedarnath. Haridwar is the starting point to begin your Char Dham Yatra.

Read our travel guide on how to reach Kedarnath from Haridwar to get a complete idea to complete your Kedarnath journey.

How to reach Kedarnath – Rishikesh or Delhi

As you know that the Kedarnath temple is located in the Rudraprayag district, so firstly you have to reach Rudraprayag and then start your journey from there. There are also many other places in Rudraprayag you can also visit after completing your Kedarnath yatra.

Firstly, Reach Rishikesh

Rishikesh is the starting point of the Himalayas and it is one of the famous cities of Uttarakhand. The city is well-connected with all the inner-state and national bus routes and also with the Train routes. If you are coming via flight then Jolly grant airport Dehradun is just 20 Km away from Rishikesh and it takes 35 to 40 minutes only. Always try to travel at night so that you can reach Rishikesh in the early morning and start your road journey to Kedarnath.

Rishikesh to Sonprayag or Gaurikund

From Rishikesh Bus Stand, you can catch public transport like Tata Sumo and Buses to Sonprayag. It is harder to find direct buses to Sonprayag so try to catch them for Guptkashi. From there you will find public transport to Sonprayag and Gaurikund easily. However, you can also get a bus to Rudraprayag and then Rudraprayag to Guptkashi. After that, you can complete your journey to Sonprayag with a shareable Maxx or Tata sumo. Below is the road route from Rishikesh to Sonprayag. You can hire a taxi for your destination.

Route from Rishikesh to Sonprayag – Kedarnath

Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Augustmuni – Guptkashi – Sonprayag

Bio – Metric Registration at Sonprayag

As instructed by the Uttarakhand Government, it is compulsory for every traveller to do biometric registration at Sonprayag. The biometric registration facility is also available online on the Uttarakhand tourism website. For registration, you have to carry your Aadhaar Card together.

Facilities for tourists at Sonprayag

Biometric registration for travellers and pilgrimages for Kedarnath Dham Yatra and Char Dham Yatra. Accommodation facilities are there from budget to deluxe restaurants and hotels in Sonprayag. Parking facilities are also available at Sonprayag for all types of vehicles near the bank of river Mandakini. Shuttle service to Gaurikund which are shareable jeeps and Tata sumos.

Keep in mind that Sonprayag is the last point for all commercial and non-commercial vehicles. You can’t travel further by personal vehicle or public transport.

A huge parking facility is there for all kinds of vehicles in Sonprayag. You have to complete the further 5 Km journey from the shuttle service between Sonprayag and Gaurikund which costs 50 rupees per person.

After reaching Gaurikund, ask for the rooms from the hotel owners. The least amount of rooms in the month of May and June is basically 500 and varies on the season.

Journey from Gaurikund to Kedarnath(18 Km, 6 – 7 Hours Journey)

The trek journey to Kedarnath starts from Gaurikund which is approximately 18 Km and takes up to 7 hours to complete. You can also take ponies, horses or dandi at rent to complete your journey.

Trekking tips for the journey to Kedarnath trek

  • Try to start your trek journey in the early morning to avoid the hard sunlight at noon. So it’s better to leave the rooms early to complete most of the trek before the sun’s rays become harsher.
  • Don’t try to travel empty stomach, it can make your journey harder and you will feel sick in between the journey.
  • Carry raincoats and umbrellas because the weather in Kedar Valley is so changing. So carry an umbrella or raincoats together on the journey.
  • Walk with good grip shoes as the route is slippery, and don’t carry unwanted things. It will make your bag heavier and your speed will slow down and it will be harder to complete.
  • Carry water bottles together, but don’t throw the waste anywhere around, put them into your bag or there are dustbins at some places that use them. Make sure you don’t spoil nature, save it for the next generations.
  • Keep your focus on the trekking route so that ponies and horses coming down from Kedarnath don’t hit you.

For what Kedarnath is Famous for?

Kedarnath is famous for Kedarnath Temple, Trekking, Char Dham Yatra, Himalaya(Kailash) and Pilgrimage.

Kedarnath is the best destination for travellers, photographers, family and kids, Groups and for all.

Kedarnath is famous for the following activities: Char Dham Yatra, Kedarnath Temple, Panch Kedar and Trekking.

Overview Kedarnath

  • Temperature: Cold area(changing temp. can’t be defined, fixed)
  • Location: Rudraprayag, Garhwal
  • Stay(Recommended): 2 days
  • Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh, 228 Km
  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun(248 Km)
  • Famous for: Kedarnath Temple, Char Dham Yatra, Trekking, Himalayas, Pilgrimage, Photography
  • Best times to visit Kedarnath: May, June, September, October and November

FAQs

Time is taken to reach Kedarnath?

It will take up to 7 hours to complete the route, so it is advised to start your journey in the early morning so that you can reach the destination early. There are a number of hotels and restaurants for accommodation, search for the rooms. For photographers, Kedar Valley is a paradise for them, you can click photos around the temple and around the valley.

Best time to Visit Kedarnath

The best time to visit Kedarnath is from September to November when the season becomes a little down, so you wouldn’t have to face more crowds. In the months of July and August, heavy rainfall happens in the Kedar Valley and the risk of road blockage and landslides becomes more. It is advised to travel in the month of September and October so that you can get instant Darshan and you don’t need to stay in long queues, and you will be able to find budget hotels at that time.

How long does it take to climb Kedarnath?

The approximate time it takes to climb the Kedarnath trek is almost 6 to 7 hours. But the time took also depends upon you. If you are an experienced person, you can cover the Kedarnath trek within 5 to 6 hours. For pahadi people, the trek will be easy to climb.

How difficult is the Kedarnath Trek or Yatra?

The trek to Kedarnath is difficult, but not so. If you are a newbie to the mountains, it will be very hard for you to complete the trek. But if you are a person who does exercise on a regular basis, then you will not face any big difficulty to climb up.

Can we go to Kedarnath by car?

No, you can go to Kedarnath by car only up to Gauri Kund which is the last road station. After Gaurikund you have to complete the journey by foot.

How can I go to Kedarnath by train?

The train route is available only up to Rishikesh, after that you have to travel by car, bus or shared vehicle.