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
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.
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.
Architectural Marvel:
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
| Destination | Distance From Haridwar (Approx) | Trek Length |
|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath | 254 Km | 16 km |
| Gauri Kund (Kedarnath Basecamp) | 238 Km | – |
| Guptkashi | 212 Km | – |
| Madmaheshwar | 257 Km | 24 Km |
| Ransi (Madmaheshwar Basecamp) | 233 Km | – |
| Ukhimath | 210 km | – |
| Tungnath | 240 Km | 4 Km |
| Chopta (Tungnath Basecamp) | 235 Km | – |
| Rudranath | 271 Km | 28 Km |
| Sagar (Rudranath Basecamp) | 243 km | – |
| Gopeshwar | 238 km | – |
| Kalpeshewar | 284 km | 150 meter |
| Urgam Village (Kalpnath Basecamp) | 280 Km | – |
| Helang | 268 Km |
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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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