Attributes

Walking Distance

40 Approx Total

Temperature

10°C to 20°C

Region

Chamoli Uttarakhand

Max Altitude

11750 ft

Difficult Level

Moderate

Rudranath Mahadev Yatra

Uttarakhand Spiritual Yatra

Rudranath Mahadev is one of the sacred temples of the Panch Kedar dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is the third Kedar in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit and holds immense spiritual significance for devotees. The temple is located in the picturesque Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, surrounded by lush meadows, rhododendron forests, and panoramic Himalayan views.

Overview
Itinerary
Cost Info
FAQ
Gallery
Vehicle
Hotel
Foods

Overview

Significance of Rudranath Mahadev

Represents Shiva’s Face (Mukha): Among the five Kedars, Rudranath is where Lord Shiva’s face is worshipped.
Spiritual Importance: It is believed that the temple was established by the Pandavas during their journey to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva.
Sacred Kunds: Near the temple are holy water ponds like Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, Tarak Kund, and Manas Kund, which hold religious significance.

Location and Altitude

District: Chamoli, Uttarakhand.
Altitude: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) above sea level.
Nearest Villages: Sagar Village and Mandal Village are the primary starting points for the trek.

Trek Details

Base Villages:
Sagar Village: The Trek distance is approximately 18 km.
Mandal Village: The Trek distance is about 20 km.
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, requiring good physical fitness.
Trail Highlights: Dense forests, scenic meadows, and captivating views of peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Nanda Ghunti.
Duration: The trek takes 2–3 days, depending on the starting point and pace.
Accessibility: Roads connect Haridwar/Rishikesh to the base villages.

Temple Architecture and Setting

Temple Structure: Made of stone with a natural rock cave serving as the sanctum.
Surroundings: The temple is surrounded by idyllic meadows and the dense Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. The pristine environment enhances the spiritual experience.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (May to June): Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking.
Autumn (September to October): Clear skies with breathtaking views.
Monsoon (July to August): The region experiences heavy rains, making the trek risky.
Winter (November to April): The temple is inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, but worship is offered at Gopeshwar during this time.

Key Attractions Near Rudranath

Sacred Kunds:

Surya Kund: Associated with the Sun God.
Chandra Kund: Linked to the Moon God.
Tarak Kund: Holds spiritual importance.
Manas Kund: Considered a meditative spot.

Panoramic Himalayan Views: Peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba dominate the skyline.
Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to diverse flora and fauna, offering a serene trekking experience.

Rituals and Festivals

Puja Offerings: Daily rituals are performed by the local priests. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and holy water.
Annual Fair: A fair is held in August/September (Shravan month), attracting pilgrims and locals.
Meditation Spot: Rudranath is considered a sacred place for meditation and introspection.

Itinerary

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1
Day 1: Rishikesh/Haridwar to Sagar Village (approx. 220 km, 8-9 hours).
Morning: Drive from Haridwar to Sagar Village, On the way visit Dhari Devi temple in Srinagar, then visit the
famous Sangam Devprayag (confluence of river Alaknanda and Bhagirathi) After reaching complete your
check-in formalities at the Home Stay and relax.
Overnight: Sagar Village.
Altitude: Sagar-1700 m/5,600 ft
Day 2
Day 2 - 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 3
Day 3 - 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 4
Day 4 - 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 5
Day 5 - 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.

Cost Info

Price includes

Accommodation: 4 nights stay in comfortable hotels/guesthouses / Camp as per the itinerary
Meals:
Breakfast and dinner are included at all stays. ( 3 Meal Included During Rudranath Trek )
Transportation: Transfers and sightseeing in a private vehicle (car/tempo traveler 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 issuess
Extra Activities: Any additional activities or sightseeing that are not mentioned in the itinerary. 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. 8. GST and Taxes: Goods and Services Tax (GST) and any other taxes or charges as applicable.

FAQ

FAQ Expand All

FAQ 1. What is the significance of Rudranath Mahadev?
Rudranath Mahadev is the third temple in the Panch Kedar circuit and represents Lord Shiva’s face (mukha). It is believed that the temple was established by the Pandavas during their quest to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva.
FAQ 2 Where is Rudranath Mahadev located?
Rudranath Mahadev is located at an altitude of 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by picturesque meadows, dense forests, and the majestic Himalayas.
FAQ 3 How can I reach Rudranath Mahadev?
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, approximately 258 km from the base villages.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar Railway Station, about 230 km away.
- By Road: Drive or take a taxi/bus from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Sagar Village or Mandal Village, the two main trekking bases.
- Trekking Route:
- From Sagar Village: 18 km trek.
- From Mandal Village: 20 km trek via Anusuya Devi Temple.
FAQ 4 What is the trek difficulty level?
The trek to Rudranath is of moderate to challenging difficulty, requiring good physical fitness. The trails involve steep ascents and rugged terrain.
FAQ 5 What is the best time to visit Rudranath Mahadev?
- Summer (May to June): Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking.
- Autumn (September to October): Clear skies with stunning Himalayan views.
- Monsoon (July to August): The trek becomes risky due to landslides and heavy rains.
- Winter (November to April): The temple is closed due to snow, and worship is performed at Gopeshwar.
FAQ 6 How long does the trek take?
The trek usually takes 2–3 days, depending on the starting point, trekking pace, and weather conditions.
FAQ 7 . Are there accommodations available near Rudranath?
Yes, accommodations are available in the form of:
- Basic guesthouses and homestays in the base villages (Sagar and Mandal).
- Campsites or simple lodges at Liti Bugyal or Panar Bugyal along the trek route.
FAQ 8 Is a guide necessary for the trek?
Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, especially for first-time trekkers, as the trails pass through dense forests and can be confusing at times.
FAQ 9 Are there any sacred water bodies near the temple?
Yes, there are four sacred kunds (water ponds) near Rudranath Temple:
1. Surya Kund
2. Chandra Kund
3. Tarak Kund
4. Manas Kund
These kunds are considered holy, and pilgrims often take a dip before visiting the temple.
FAQ 10 Can senior citizens or children undertake this yatra?
The trek is strenuous and may not be suitable for senior citizens or young children. However, experienced senior trekkers with good fitness levels can attempt it.
FAQ 11 What should I pack for the Rudranath Yatra?
- Warm clothing (layers), raincoat, trekking shoes, and gloves.
- Basic first aid kit, medicines, and energy bars.
- Flashlight/headlamp and trekking poles.
- Eco-friendly toiletries and reusable water bottles.
FAQ 12 Is the Rudranath trek safe for solo travellers?
While it is possible to trek solo, it is recommended to travel with a group or hire a guide for safety, as the trails are remote and pass through dense forests.
FAQ 13 What are the nearby attractions?
1. Anusuya Devi Temple: A revered shrine located en route from Mandal.
2. Panar Bugyal: A scenic meadow offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
3. Gopeshwar: A town where Rudranath’s winter worship is performed.
FAQ 14 . Is the Rudranath Mahadev temple open throughout the year?
No, the temple is open from May to October. During winter, the idol is shifted to Gopeshwar for worship.
FAQ 15 Do I need permits for the trek?
As the route passes through parts of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, you may need to obtain a forest entry permit, which is available at the entry points.
FAQ 16 What kind of food is available during the trek?
Simple vegetarian food is available at dhabas and lodges along the route. It is advisable to carry snacks and dry fruits for energy.
FAQ 17 Are there medical facilities available?
Medical facilities are minimal in the region. Carry a basic first aid kit, and for emergencies, you may need to trek back to the nearest village or town.
FAQ 18 What are some tips for a safe and successful yatra?
- Prepare physically for the trek.
- Carry essential trekking gear and warm clothing.
- Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion.
- Respect the environment—do not litter.
- Start your trek early to avoid trekking in the dark.
FAQ 19 What are the costs associated with the Rudranath Yatra?
The cost depends on the mode of transport, guide charges, accommodations, and food. On average, it ranges from ₹8,000–₹14,000 per person for a 3-day trek, excluding travel to the base.
FAQ 20 Which is the best travel company for Rudranath Yatra?
Kedarnathyatra.com, a unit of Alpine Hikes Pvt Ltd, offers the best travel services for Rudranath Yatra. They provide tailored itineraries, experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and reliable transportation to ensure a smooth and spiritually enriching experience.