Complete Guide to Panch Kedar Yatra
Your Sacred Journey to the Five Shiva Temples
Overview of Panch Kedar Yatra
The Panch Kedar Yatra is a revered pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva, encompassing visits to five ancient temples nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. According to legend, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings. To evade them, Shiva assumed five different forms and concealed himself in these sacred temples:
- Kedarnath: The principal temple representing Shiva’s fierce aspect.
- Tungnath: The highest Shiva temple, symbolizing the element of air.
- Rudranath: Embodying Shiva’s power of transformation.
- Madhyamaheshwar: Reflecting Shiva’s compassionate side.
- Kalpeshwar: Symbolizing Shiva’s creative energy and the fulfillment of devotees’ wishes.
This sacred journey challenges both physical endurance and offers a deep spiritual awakening as pilgrims traverse rugged terrains in search of divine blessings.
Full Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Rishikesh to Guptkashi
Distance: 180 km | Duration: 7-8 hrs
Pickup from Airport/Hotel and drive to Guptkashi. On the way, visit Dhari Devi Temple in Srinagar, then visit the famous Sangam Devprayag (confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi Rivers). After reaching Guptkashi, complete your check-in formalities at the hotel and relax. Explore Guptkashi town for the rest of the day. Dinner and overnight stay in a Guptkashi hotel.
Altitude: 1,319 m / 4,327 ft
Day 2: Guptkashi to Kedarnath
Travel: 30 km drive + 19 km trek
Altitude: 3,583 m / 11,755 ft
After breakfast, drive to Sonprayag (30 km), then take a local taxi for a 5 km drive to Gaurikund. Start the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath (approx. 16 km, 6-8 hrs). Check into the guesthouse, visit Kedarnath Temple, and attend the evening Aarti. Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Kedarnath.
Day 3: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
Travel: 19 km trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund, then 30 km drive from Gaurikund to Guptkashi
Attend the morning Aarti at Kedarnath, then descend by trekking back to Gaurikund and drive to Guptkashi. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way. Overnight stay in Guptkashi.
Day 4: Guptkashi to Ransi & Trek to Gaundhar/Bantoli
After breakfast, drive from Guptkashi to Ransi Village and then trek to Gaundhar (Bantoli).
Altitude at Gaundhar: 1,830 m / 6,000 ft
Trek Distance: 6 km (approx. 5 hrs)
Driving Distance: 35 km (1-2 hrs)
Day 5: Gaundhar to Madhyamaheshwar
Trek from Gaundhar to Madhyamaheshwar.
Distance: 10 km (approx. 6-7 hrs)
Altitude: 3,230 m / 10,600 ft
Overnight stay in a guesthouse or camp in Madhyamaheshwar.
Day 6: Madhyamaheshwar to Ransi Village to Chopta
Trek from Madhyamaheshwar to Ransi Village (16 km, approx. 8-9 hrs) then drive to Chopta (50 km, approx. 2-3 hrs).
Altitude at Chopta: 2,900 m / 9,500 ft
Overnight stay in camp or homestay in Chopta.
Day 7: Chopta to Tungnath to Sagar Village
Early morning, trek from Chopta to Tungnath (8 km both ways, approx. 7-8 hrs). Visit Tungnath Temple for darshan. Return to Chopta and then drive to Sagar Village.
Altitude: Tungnath: 3,500 m / 11,500 ft; Sagar: 1,700 m / 5,600 ft
Overnight stay in Sagar Village.
Day 8: Sagar Village to Panar Bugyal
Trek from Sagar Village to Panar Bugyal (approx. 12 km, 5-6 hrs).
Altitude: From Sagar Village (1,950 m) to Panar Bugyal (3,400 m)
Overnight camp or homestay at Panar Bugyal.
Day 9: Panar Bugyal to Rudranath and Back
Trek from Panar Bugyal to Rudranath and back (approx. 12 km each way, 6-7 hrs each way).
Altitude: Both Panar Bugyal and Rudranath at approx. 3,400 m
Overnight camp at Panar Bugyal.
Day 10: Panar Bugyal to Sagar Village & Drive to Kalpeshwar - Urgam Valley
After breakfast, trek from Panar Bugyal to Sagar Village and then drive to Kalpeshwar in the Urgam Valley (approx. 63 km, 2 hr 33 min).
Visit Kalpeshwar Temple for blessings.
Altitude at Urgam: 2,200 m / 7,218 ft
Overnight stay at Devgram in Urgam Valley.
Day 11: Devgram, Urgam to Haridwar
After breakfast, drive from Devgram, Urgam to Haridwar (approx. 247.1 km, 7 hr 21 min).
You will be dropped at Haridwar Station as scheduled. Tour ends.
Day 12: Reserve Day
This day is reserved for any adjustments or rest as needed.
The Five Sacred Temples of Panch Kedar
Kedarnath
Altitude: 3,583 m
Significance: The principal temple where Shiva manifests in his fierce aspect.
Highlights: Ancient architecture and a profound spiritual aura.
Tungnath
Altitude: 3,680 m
Significance: The highest Shiva temple, symbolizing the element of air.
Highlights: Breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings.
Rudranath
Altitude: Approx. 3,200 m
Significance: Embodies Shiva’s power of transformation and renewal.
Highlights: Mystical legends and a serene atmosphere.
Madhyamaheshwar
Altitude: Approx. 1,700 m
Significance: Represents Shiva’s compassionate and benevolent aspect.
Highlights: Peaceful environment and lush landscapes.
Kalpeshwar
Altitude: Approx. 2,300 m
Significance: Symbolizes Shiva’s creative energy and the fulfillment of devotees’ wishes.
Highlights: A divine ambience and scenic trekking routes.
Mythological Significance
According to ancient legends, the Panch Kedar Yatra was established when the Pandavas, seeking divine intervention after the Mahabharata war, approached Lord Shiva. To evade them, Shiva assumed five different forms and concealed himself in these five temples. Each temple represents a unique aspect of his divine nature, making this yatra a profound spiritual journey.
Essential Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: May-June (Summer) & September-October (Autumn)
- Packing Essentials: Warm clothing, trekking shoes, rain gear, and a first aid kit
- Altitude Precautions: Stay hydrated and acclimatize gradually
- Physical Fitness: Moderate trekking is involved; be prepared for physical activity
Inclusions & Policies
Inclusions:
- Sightseeing, transfers, and excursions as per the itinerary
- Accommodation on a double/triple sharing basis
- Meals as specified by the hotels
- All travel-related expenses including driver services
- 24-hour helpline and on-ground assistance
Cancellation Policy:
- 10% refund if cancelled 60+ days before departure
- 25% refund if cancelled 30-60 days before departure
- 50% refund if cancelled 15-29 days before departure
- 75% refund if cancelled 7-14 days before departure
- No refund if cancelled less than 7 days before departure
Payment Policy:
- 25% payment at booking
- 50% payment 30 days before departure
- 100% payment 15 days before departure
Contact Us
For more details and to plan your sacred pilgrimage, please get in touch with us:
Phone: +91 7579125988, +91 7409888588
Email: info@alpinehikes.in