Panch Kedar Yatra: 12 Days Spiritual Trek to Lord Shiva Temples in Uttarakhand

Estd. 1990

Gujarat Toursim
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Panch Kedar Yatra

Duration

11 Nights / 12 Days

Places Covered

Rishikesh – Guptkashi – Kedarnath – Ransi – Gaundhar – Madhyamaheshwar – Chopta – Tungnath – Sagar Village – Panar Bugyal – Rudranath – Pipalkoti – Kalpeshwar

Panch Kedar Yatra – 12 Days Spiritual Journey

The Panch Kedar Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages dedicated to Lord Shiva, taking devotees to the five holy shrines — Kedarnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar — each nestled amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand.

This 12-day journey offers a perfect blend of spiritual devotion and Himalayan adventure. Pilgrims trek through dense forests, serene meadows, and snow-clad mountains while visiting ancient temples believed to be built by the Pandavas.

Beyond its religious significance, the yatra provides a chance to experience the natural beauty, culture, and peace of remote Himalayan villages. Each step on this sacred route brings you closer to divinity and to the essence of Lord Shiva’s eternal presence.

FAQ About Panch Kedar Yatra

Q. What is the Panch Kedar Yatra?

The Panch Kedar Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva, covering five holy temples — Kedarnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar. These temples are located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand and hold deep spiritual significance linked to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata.

Q. How many days are required for the Panch Kedar Yatra?

The complete Panch Kedar Yatra generally takes around 12 days, including trekking, temple visits, and travel between the destinations.

Q. What is the best time to visit Panch Kedar?

The ideal time for the yatra is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant, and all temple routes remain open. Monsoon months (July–August) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and possible landslides.

Q. What is the difficulty level of the Panch Kedar trek?

The yatra involves moderate to challenging treks, with daily walking distances ranging between 5–18 km. Basic fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended for a comfortable journey.

Q. What kind of accommodation is available during the yatra?

Accommodation options include guest houses, village homestays, camps, and cottages. Facilities are basic but clean and comfortable, offering a genuine Himalayan experience.

Q. Are meals included in the package?

Yes, breakfast and dinner are included throughout the tour. Lunch is usually arranged en route and is not included in the package. Vegetarian meals are provided as per pilgrimage norms.

Q. How do I reach the starting point of the yatra?

The yatra begins from Rishikesh, which is well connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), around 20 km from Rishikesh.

Q. Is this yatra suitable for senior citizens?

Yes, senior citizens with good physical fitness and medical clearance can join. Pony or porter services are also available at some stretches to make the journey easier.

Q. What should I pack for the Panch Kedar Yatra?

Carry warm clothes, trekking shoes, a raincoat, woolen gloves, a walking stick, sunscreen, personal medicines, and a small backpack for essentials.

Q. What makes the Panch Kedar Yatra special?

The Panch Kedar Yatra is unique because it combines mythology, spirituality, and natural beauty. Each temple symbolizes a part of Lord Shiva and offers a deeply divine experience amid the serene Himalayan setting.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Rishikesh to Guptkashi

Begin your Tour
Arrive into Delhi
Welcome to "Vardhman's Panch Kedar Yatra"!
Departure & Travel: Begin your journey early from Rishikesh toward Guptkashi by road. Enjoy the scenic drive through the foothills of the Himalayas.
Highlights: Enjoy the serene surroundings, fresh mountain air, and views of the lush green valleys as you travel.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch will be on the way (not included in the package cost). Dinner will be served at the hotel/guest house.
Altitude: 1,319 m / 4,327 ft – a gentle acclimatization to the higher Himalayan terrain.
Overnight: Guest House / Hotel in Guptkashi

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Day 2 Guptkashi - Gaurikund - Trek to Kedarnath

Travel & Trek: After an early breakfast, drive approximately 30 km (1–2 hours) from Guptkashi to Gaurikund, the base of Kedarnath. From Gaurikund, begin your 16–18 km trek to the sacred Kedarnath Temple, which may take around 8–9 hours depending on pace.
Highlights:

Pilgrimage trek through Himalayan landscapes.
Scenic views of snow-capped peaks and the Mandakini River.
Spiritual experience at the Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.

Altitude: 3,584 m / 11,758 ft – a significant ascent, so take short breaks to acclimatize.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch will be on the way (not included in the package).
Overnight: Guest House (Dormitory) / Campsite near Kedarnath

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Day 3 Kedarnath - Gaurikund - Drive Back to Guptkashi

Descent Trek: After breakfast, begin your 16–18 km descent trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund, which usually takes around 8–9 hours. Enjoy the serene mountain landscapes and the flowing Mandakini River along the way.
Highlights:

Descend through lush Himalayan valleys.
Opportunity to capture scenic photographs and experience the tranquil surroundings.
Reflect on the spiritual journey at Kedarnath.

Drive: From Gaurikund, drive approximately 30 km (about 1 hour) back to Guptkashi.
Meals: Lunch will be on the way (not included in the package). Dinner will be served at the guest house/hotel.
Overnight: Guest House / Hotel in Guptkashi

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Day 4 Guptkashi - Ransi - Trek to Gaundhar

Drive & Trek: After breakfast, drive approximately 35 km (1–2 hours) from Guptkashi to Ransi, the starting point for your trek to Gaundhar. Embark on a 5–6 km trek, which will take around 5–6 hours through scenic Himalayan trails.
Highlights:

Trekking through dense forests and quaint Himalayan villages.
Enjoy the serene beauty of the remote landscapes.
Interact with local villagers and experience authentic Himalayan culture.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch can be arranged on the way (not included in the package).
Overnight: Homestay in Gaundhar

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Day 5 Gaundhar - Trek to Madhyamaheshwar

Trek: After breakfast, embark on a 10 km trek from Gaundhar to the sacred Madhyamaheshwar Temple, which usually takes 7–8 hours. The trail passes through lush forests, alpine meadows, and quaint mountain hamlets.
Highlights:

Explore the pristine Himalayan landscape and alpine flora.
Witness breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Experience the spiritual aura of one of the revered Panch Kedar temples.

Altitude: 3,490 m / 11,450 ft – moderate to high-altitude trekking, so take breaks and stay hydrated.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch can be arranged en route (not included in the package).
Overnight: Village homestay near Madhyamaheshwar

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Day 6 Madhyamaheshwar → Trek to Ransi - Drive to Chopta

Trek: Begin your day with breakfast, then embark on a 16–17 km descent trek from Madhyamaheshwar to Ransi, which usually takes 8–9 hours. Enjoy the changing Himalayan landscapes, from alpine meadows to forested valleys.
Highlights:

Scenic trekking through varied Himalayan terrain.
Opportunity for stunning photography of Chopta’s meadows and surrounding peaks.
Refreshing evening in the serene environment of Chopta.

Drive: From Ransi, drive approximately 50 km (1–2 hours) to Chopta, a scenic hill station and base for the Tungnath temple trek.
Altitude: 1,319 m / 4,327 ft – a gradual descent bringing you closer to lower elevations.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch can be arranged on the way (not included in the package).
Overnight: Camps or cottages in Chopta

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Day 7 Chopta - Trek to Tungnath Temple - Return to Chopta

Trek: After an early breakfast, begin your 7 km trek from Chopta to the Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world. The round trip trek usually takes 7–8 hours and passes through lush forests, alpine meadows, and panoramic Himalayan vistas.
Highlights:

Visit the sacred Tungnath Temple and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Trishul.
Trek through pristine landscapes filled with alpine flowers and scenic trails.

Altitude: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft – a moderately high-altitude trek, so pace yourself and take short breaks to acclimatize.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch can be arranged on the way (not included in the package).
Overnight: Camps or cottages in Chopta

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Day 8 Chopta - Drive to Sagar Village - Trek to Panar Bugyal

Drive & Trek: After breakfast, drive approximately 35 km (about 1 hour) from Chopta to Sagar Village, the starting point of your trek to Panar Bugyal. Embark on a 10 km trek, which usually takes 6–7 hours, through lush forests and open meadows.
Highlights:

Trek through pristine meadows filled with alpine flowers and serene landscapes.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and valleys.
Experience a peaceful night under the stars amidst nature.

Altitude: 2,350 m / 7,520 ft – a moderate altitude trek offering scenic views and comfortable acclimatization.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch can be arranged en route (not included in the package).
Overnight: Camp at Panar Bugyal

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Day 9 Panar Bugyal - Trek to Rudranath - Return to Panar Bugyal

Trek: After breakfast, embark on a 14 km trek from Panar Bugyal to the sacred Rudranath Temple, which usually takes 8–9 hours for the round trip. The trail passes through dense forests, alpine meadows, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Highlights:

Visit the sacred Rudranath Temple, one of the Panch Kedar temples.
Trek through pristine Himalayan landscapes and scenic trails.
Enjoy the spiritual and natural beauty of the region, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft – a high-altitude trek, so take sufficient breaks and stay hydrated.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch can be arranged on the way (not included in the package).
Overnight: Camp or homestay near Panar Bugyal

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Day 10 Panar Bugyal - Trek to Sagar Village - Drive to Pipalkoti

Trek & Drive: After breakfast, begin your 10 km descent trek from Panar Bugyal to Sagar Village, which usually takes 5–6 hours. From Sagar Village, drive approximately 30 km (1–2 hours) to Pipalkoti.
Highlights:

Scenic descent through lush Himalayan forests and valleys.
Opportunity to capture beautiful landscapes and mountain streams.
Relax and rejuvenate at Pipalkoti after a long trekking day.

Altitude: 1,259 m / 4,028 ft – gradual descent to lower elevations, making the trek more comfortable.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch can be arranged on the way (not included in the package).
Overnight: Hotel in Pipalkoti

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Day 11 Pipalkoti - Drive to Kalpeshwar - Return to Pipalkoti

Drive & Visit: After breakfast, drive approximately 70 km (around 3 hours) from Pipalkoti to the sacred Kalpeshwar Temple, the final temple of the Panch Kedar Yatra. Explore the temple and its serene surroundings, then return to Pipalkoti for the night.
Highlights:

Visit the tranquil Kalpeshwar Temple, set amidst the picturesque Himalayas.
Enjoy the scenic drive through Himalayan valleys.
Reflect on the spiritual journey covering all five sacred Kedars.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Lunch can be arranged on the way (not included in the package).
Overnight: Hotel in Pipalkoti

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Day 12 Pipalkoti - Drive to Rishikesh

Drive: After breakfast, begin your drive of approximately 215 km (around 7 hours) from Pipalkoti back to Rishikesh, passing through scenic Himalayan valleys and charming villages.
Highlights:

Enjoy the scenic landscapes and rivers along the route.
Reflect on the spiritual journey through the sacred Panch Kedar temples.
Comfortable end to an enriching pilgrimage experience.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch will be on the way (not included in the package).

Drop-off: Arrive in Rishikesh by evening, marking the conclusion of the Panch Kedar Yatra.

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