Attributes

Difficult Level

Moderate

Max Altitude

11750 ft

Region

Uttarakhand

Temperature

10°C to 20°C

Panch Kedar Yatra

Uttarakhand Spiritual Yatra

The Panch Kedar Yatra is a revered pilgrimage in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, visiting five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Each temple has its unique legend and significance,
forming an essential part of Shaivism. The yatra traverses stunning landscapes, high-altitude trails, and serene villages, making it a spiritual and adventurous journey.

Overview
Itinerary
Cost Info
FAQ
Map
Gallery
Vehicle
Hotel
Foods

Overview

The Five Temples of Panch Kedar

Kedarnath (Lord Shiva’s Hump)

Altitude: 3,583 meters (11,755 feet)
Significance: The most important and prominent temple, Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
Special Features: Stone architecture built in a conical shape, nestled near the Mandakini River with breathtaking Himalayan views.
Route: Accessible via a 16 km trek from Gaurikund.

Tungnath (Lord Shiva’s Arms)

Altitude: 3,680 meters (12,073 feet)
Significance: The highest Shiva temple in the world.
Special Features: Located near Chandrashila peak, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
Route: A 4 km trek from Chopta through lush meadows

Rudranath (Lord Shiva’s Face)

Altitude: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet)
Significance: Known for its natural rock formations of Lord Shiva’s face.
Special Features: Surrounded by the Narad Kund and majestic peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul.
Route: Requires a challenging trek of 18-20 km from Sagar village or 24 km from Mandal village.

Madhyamaheshwar (Lord Shiva’s Navel)

Altitude: 3,497 meters (11,473 feet)
Significance: The temple is located in a lush green valley and is the second temple to be visited after Kedarnath.
Special Features: Known for its stunning surroundings of Chaukhamba and Kedarnath peaks
Route: A 16 km trek from Ransi village via Gaundar

Kalpeshwar (Lord Shiva’s Hair or Jata)

Altitude: 2,200 meters (7,217 feet)
Significance: The only Panch Kedar temple accessible throughout the year.
Special Features: Set amidst forests and terraced fields. The Kalpeshwar cave houses the sacred matted hair of Lord Shiva.
Route: A 2 km trek from Urgam village, which is a short drive from Helang.

Itinerary

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1
Day 1 - Rishikesh To Guptkashi [180 km, 7-8 hrs.
Pickup From Airport / Hotel Drive To Guptkashi. On the way visit Dhari Devi temple in Srinagar, then
visit the famous Sangam Devprayag (confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi) After reaching
Guptkashi, complete your check-in formalities at the hotel and relax. You are free to explore Guptkashi
town for the rest of the day. Dinner and Overnight stay in Guptkashi Hotel.
Altitude: 1,319 m/ 4,327 ft.
Driving Distance: 180 km, 7-8 hrs.
Day 2
Day 2 - Guptkashi to Kedarnath (30 km drive + 19 km trek, 3,583 m / 11,755 ft)
After Breakfast Drive To Sonprayag 30 km 5km Drive a Local Taxi To Gaurikund Trek: Start the trek to
Kedarnath (approx. 16 km, 6-8 hours). Activities: Check into the guesthouse. Visit Kedarnath Temple and
attend the evening Aarti. Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Kedarnath.
Drive: Guptkashi to Gaurikund (30 km).
Trek: Gaurikund to Kedarnath (19 km).
Highlights: Kedarnath Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, scenic Himalayan views.
Overnight Stay: Kedarnath.
Day 3
Day 3 - Descend from Kedarnath to Gaurikund and drive back to Guptakashi (19 km trek + 30 km drive)
Trek: Kedarnath to Gaurikund (19 km).
Drive: Gaurikund to Guptkashi (30 km).
Highlights: Morning, Aarti at Kedarnath. The landscapes are beautiful.
Overnight Stay: Guptkashi.
Day 4
Day 4 - Drive from Guptakashi to Ransi and trek to Gaundhar/ Bantoli
Morning After Breakfast Drive To Rasi Village And trek to Gaundhar
Altitude(Gaundhar):1830 m/ 6000 ft.
Trek Distance: 6 km | 5 hrs.
Driving Distance: 35 km |1-2 hrs.
Day 5
Day 5 - Gaundhar to Madhymaheshwar
Trek: Gaundhar to Madhymaheshwar Distance: 10 km | 6-7 hrs.
Altitude: 3,230 m/ 10,600 ft. Madhymaheshwar
Stay: Overnight stay in a guesthouse or camp in Madhymaheshwar
Day 6
Day 6 - Madhymaheshwar to Ransi Village To Chopta
Trek: Madhymaheshwar to Ransi Village Trek Distance: 16 km | 8-9 hrs. Drive to Chopta: 50 km | 2-3
hrs. Stay: Overnight stay in Camp Stay in Chopta
Altitude (Chopta): 2,900 m/ 9,500 ft.
Day 7
Day 7 - Chopta To Tungnath To Saggar Village 3 hr 25 min (108.0 km)
Early morning, start trekking to Tungnath. Visit Tungnath Temple. After Darshan, go back to Chopta.
Overnight stay at Chopta. drive to Sagar Village. Overnight stay in Sagar village.
Altitude: Sagar-1700 m/5,600 ft
Altitude(Tungnath): 3500 m/ 11500 ft.
Trek Distance: 8 km (Both ways) | 7-8 hrs.
Day 8
Day 8 - Sagar Village to Panar Bugyal
Trek: Sagar Village to Panar Bugyal Distance: ~12 km Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude: Sagar Village (1,950m) to Panar Bugyal (3,400m)

Stay: Camp / Home Stay overnight in Panar Bugyal
Day 9
Day 9 - Panar Bugyal to Rudranath and Back to Panar Bugyal
Trek: Panar Bugyal to Rudranath and back to Panar Bugyal Distance: ~12 km each way Duration: 6-7
hours each way Altitude: Panar Bugyal (3,400m) to Rudranath (3,400m) Stay: Camp overnight in
Panar Bugyal
Day 10
Day 10 - Trek from Panar Bugyal to Sagar village and drive Kalpeshwar - Urgam Valley 2 hr 33 min (63.0 km)
After breakfast, start your trek to Kalpeshwar Temple which is almost 1 km. Take some blessings from
God at Kalpeshwar temple & Overnight Stay At Devgrm Urgam Valley
Altitude - Urgam 2,200 m (7,217.8 ft)
Day 11
Day 11 - Devgram Village, Urgam To Haridwar ( 7 hr 21 min (247.1 km)
After Breakfast Drive to Haridwar on the last day of the tour, you will be dropped at the Station as
scheduled. Tour Ends.
Day 12
1 Day Reserve
Day 12 Is Reserve Day
Day 13
Day 11 - Devgram Village, Urgam To Haridwar ( 7 hr 21 min (247.1 km)

Cost Info

Price includes

Accommodation: 11 nights stay in comfortable hotels/guesthouses/Homestay / Camp as per the itinerary.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included at all stays. ( 3 Meal Included During Madhymaheshwar & Rudranath Trek )
Transportation: Transfers and sightseeing in a private vehicle (car/tempo traveler/bus) as per the group size. Fuel, driver allowances, toll taxes, and parking charges.
Trekking Support: Mules and porters for carrying luggage during treks (if required).
Permits and Entry Fees: All necessary permits and entry fees for Panch Kedar temples.
Guide: Professional and experienced guide for the entire trip.
Medical Kit: A basic first aid kit is available in the vehicle and with the guide.
Sightseeing: Visits to all the major temples and sightseeing spots as mentioned in the itinerary.
Assistance: 24/7 assistance and support during the trip.

Price excludes

Airfare/Train Fare: Any airfare or train fare to and from Haridwar.
Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, room service, tips, and porterage. Any meals not mentioned in the inclusions. Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, trekking poles, etc.).
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance or any other kind of insurance.
Medical Expenses: Any medical expenses incurred due to altitude sickness or any other health issues.
Extra Activities: Any additional activities or sightseeing that are not mentioned in the itinerary. Palki or pony rides for treks (available at extra cost if needed).
Optional Services: Any optional services or items not specified in the inclusions.
Additional Accommodation: Any additional nights of accommodation outside the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions, landslides, or roadblocks.
GST and Taxes: Goods and Services Tax (GST) and any other taxes or charges as applicable.

FAQ

FAQ Expand All

FAQ 11. What is the Panch Kedar Yatra?
The Panch Kedar Yatra is a pilgrimage to five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Uttarakhand. The temples are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar, each representing a different body part of Shiva. The yatra is both spiritual and adventurous, involving treks through the scenic Himalayas.
FAQ 2 2. What is the significance of the Panch Kedar temples?
The temples are associated with a legend from the Mahabharata. Lord Shiva, in the form of a bull, hid in the Himalayas to avoid the Pandavas. The temples mark the locations where his body parts appeared:
- Kedarnath: Hump
- Tungnath: Arms
- Rudranath: Face
- Madhyamaheshwar: Navel
- Kalpeshwar: Hair (Jata)
Worshipping at these temples is believed to absolve sins and lead to spiritual salvation.
FAQ 3 What is the best time to undertake the Panch Kedar Yatra?
- Summer (May to June): Ideal weather with pleasant temperatures and clear skies.
- Post-Monsoon (September to October): Fresh greenery and breathtaking views.
- Winter (November to April): Most temples, except Kalpeshwar, are closed due to snow.
FAQ 4 . How many days are required for the Panch Kedar Yatra?
The yatra typically takes 10-12 days. The duration depends on trekking speed, weather, and chosen routes.
FAQ 5 5. What are the trekking distances and difficulty levels for each temple?
Temple                 Trek Distance Difficulty             Base Village

Kedarnath          16 km (Gaurikund)       Moderate            Gaurikund

Tungnath            4 km (Chopta)                  Easy      Chopta

Rudranath         18-20 km (Sagar)           Challenging      Sagar / Mandal

Madhyamaheshwar   16 km (Ransi) Moderate            Ransi

Kalpeshwar      2 km (Urgam) Easy      Urgam / Helang
FAQ 6 What fitness level is required for the yatra?
The yatra involves long treks, often at high altitudes. Moderate physical fitness is necessary. It is recommended to:
- Practice walking or trekking regularly before the trip.
- Acclimatize to the altitude during the journey.
FAQ 7 What are the accommodation options during the yatra?
- Hotels and Guesthouses: Available at Guptkashi, Chopta, and nearby villages.
- Camps: Common at remote locations like Rudranath and Madhyamaheshwar.
- Homestays: Available in villages like Ransi and Urgam.
FAQ 8 What should I pack for the Panch Kedar Yatra?
- Clothing: Warm layers, raincoat, trekking pants, and gloves.
- Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip.
- Essentials: Torch, power bank, first-aid kit, water bottle, and dry snacks.
- Documents: ID proof, medical kit, and permits (if required).
FAQ 9 Is there mobile network coverage during the yatra?
Mobile connectivity is limited in remote areas. BSNL and Jio networks work at some locations. It is advisable to inform loved ones before heading to remote regions.
FAQ 10 Are there medical facilities available?
Basic medical facilities and first-aid are available in some villages. For major emergencies, the nearest hospitals are in Guptkashi and Rudraprayag. Carry personal medications and a basic first-aid kit.
FAQ 11 . Can children or elderly people undertake the yatra?
Children and elderly people with good health can undertake the yatra, but they should avoid challenging treks like Rudranath. Horses and porters are available for assistance.
FAQ 12 . What is the cost of the Panch Kedar Yatra?
The cost depends on the mode of travel, accommodation, and services included. On average:
- Budget Tour: ₹20,000–₹25,000 per person.
- Standard Tour: ₹30,000–₹40,000 per person.
- Luxury Tour: ₹55,000+ per person.
FAQ 13 . Are there guided tours available?
Many travel companies offer guided tours with experienced guides, porters, and cooks. Guided tours are recommended for first-time trekkers.
FAQ 14 . Can I visit Panch Kedar temples in any specific order?
While there is no fixed order, the traditional sequence is:

Kedarnath → Madhyamaheshwar → Tungnath → Rudranath → Kalpeshwar.

This route is planned for acclimatisation and smoother trekking.
FAQ 15 Are there vegetarian food options available during the yatra?
Yes, most food options along the route are vegetarian, which is in line with the pilgrimage’s sanctity. Simple meals like dal, rice, roti, and vegetables are commonly available.
FAQ 16 What are the environmental and cultural guidelines for the yatra?
- Respect Nature: Avoid littering and use biodegradable items.
- Respect Local Customs: Follow temple etiquette and dress modestly.
- No Alcohol or Non-Vegetarian Food: These are strictly prohibited during the pilgrimage.
FAQ 17 What are the modes of transportation for the yatra?
- By Road: Private vehicles, shared taxis, or buses connect major towns.
- By Helicopter: Helicopter services are available for Kedarnath and some nearby locations.
- On Foot: Most temples require trekking to access.
FAQ 18 . Is photography allowed at the temples?
Photography is allowed in temple surroundings but not inside sanctums. Always seek permission when photographing locals or sacred sites.
FAQ 19 . Can the yatra be done solo?
Yes, the yatra can be done solo, but travelling in a group or with a guide is safer and more enjoyable, especially for remote treks.
FAQ 20 . How do I register for the yatra?
Registration is required for the Kedarnath temple and can be done online or at designated counters in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other towns.
FAQ 21 What if I face altitude sickness?
- Symptoms: Headache, nausea, breathlessness, and dizziness.
- Prevention: Acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and avoid exertion.
- Treatment: Descend to a lower altitude and consult a doctor.
FAQ 22 Can I complete the Panch Kedar Yatra in multiple trips?
Yes, you can visit the temples on separate trips, depending on your convenience. Kalpeshwar is open year-round, making it accessible even in winter.
FAQ 23 Which is the best travel company for the Panch Kedar Yatra?
The best travel company providing reliable and comprehensive travel services for the Panch Kedar Yatra is Kedarnathyatra.com, a unit of Alpine Hikes Pvt Ltd. They specialize in organizing hassle-free pilgrimages, offering:
- Tailored itineraries
- Experienced guides and support staff
- Comfortable accommodations and transportation