A Journey Through The Sacred Shrines

Uttarakhand, often referred to as the ‘Devbhoomi’ or the Land of Gods, is home to numerous sacred temples and pilgrimage sites. Among its most revered spiritual destinations is the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand, a group of five ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. These temples—Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar—are nestled in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas and hold immense mythological and religious significance. Each temple represents a part of Lord Shiva’s body, as per legend, and is an integral part of the Shaivite tradition. Let’s embark on a spiritual journey to explore the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand and their significance.

The Legend of Panch Kedar

The Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand has its origins in the Mahabharata. According to mythology, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought absolution from the sin of killing their own kin. They were advised by the sage Vyasa to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. However, Shiva, displeased with them, disguised himself as a bull and fled to the Himalayas. When the Pandavas pursued him, Shiva dived underground, leaving different parts of his body in different locations. These locations became the five sacred temples of Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand:

1. Kedarnath – The hump of the bull appeared here.
2. Tungnath – The arms were found here.
3. Rudranath – The face was discovered here.
4. Madhyamaheshwar – The navel and stomach emerged here.
5. Kalpeshwar – The hair and head surfaced here.

Visiting all five temples is considered highly auspicious, and devotees believe that doing so grants them divine blessings and liberation from sins.

1. Kedarnath: The Most Revered Jyotirlinga

Kedarnath, the most famous of the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand, is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters, it is perched near the Mandakini River in the Rudraprayag district. The temple, constructed by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya, boasts a stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

The trek to Kedarnath is challenging, involving a steep 16 km journey from Gaurikund. Despite the hardships, thousands of devotees visit the temple every year, especially during the Char Dham Yatra. The temple opens in April-May and closes around October-November due to extreme winter conditions. The spiritual aura, breathtaking scenery, and religious significance make Kedarnath a must-visit for Shiva devotees.

2. Tungnath: The Highest Shiva Temple in the World

At an altitude of 3,680 meters, Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world. It is believed to be over 1,000 years old and is associated with the arms of Lord Shiva. Located in the Rudraprayag district, Tungnath is an important stop for trekkers as well as pilgrims.

The trek to Tungnath is relatively easy compared to Kedarnath and starts from Chopta, often referred to as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India.’ It is a 5 km trek through dense forests and lush meadows, offering mesmerizing views of the Himalayan range. Just above Tungnath, at an altitude of 4,150 meters, lies Chandrashila Peak, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The temple remains open from May to October and is closed during winter when the deity is shifted to Makkumath.

3. Rudranath: The Face of Lord Shiva

Rudranath, where the face of Lord Shiva is worshiped, is one of the most scenic and mystical temples among the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 2,286 meters in the Chamoli district and is surrounded by beautiful meadows and dense rhododendron forests.

Unlike other Panch Kedar temples, the trek to Rudranath is challenging and covers around 20 km, starting from Sagar village. The temple’s location amidst the natural beauty of the Himalayas makes it a tranquil and meditative spot. The Rudraganga River flows nearby, enhancing the spiritual ambiance. Devotees believe that worshiping here helps in overcoming sorrow and attaining peace. The temple remains open from May to October, with the deity moving to Gopeshwar during winter.

4. Madhyamaheshwar: The Navel of Shiva

Madhyamaheshwar, also called Madmaheshwar, is located at an altitude of 3,497 meters and is associated with the navel of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated in the Mansoona village of Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region.

The trek to Madhyamaheshwar starts from Ransi village and is around 19 km long, passing through stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. The temple’s architecture is simple yet captivating, with a small Shiva Lingam worshiped inside. In winter, the deity is taken to Ukhimath, where devotees can offer prayers. The serene environment and scenic beauty make it an ideal place for spiritual seekers and adventure lovers alike.

5. Kalpeshwar: The Eternal Shiva Temple

Kalpeshwar, the last temple in the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand, is the only one open throughout the year. Situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters in the Chamoli district, it is associated with Lord Shiva’s hair and head.

Unlike other Panch Kedar temples, reaching Kalpeshwar is relatively easy, as it requires only a short trek from the village of Urgam. The temple is nestled in a serene location, surrounded by lush greenery and caves. It is also believed that the sage Durvasa meditated here, adding to its spiritual significance. Devotees visiting Kalpeshwar often extend their journey to explore the nearby Dhyan Badri, one of the seven Badri temples.

Best Time to Visit Panch Kedar

The Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand temples remain open from May to October, as heavy snowfall makes access difficult in winter. However, Kalpeshwar is accessible throughout the year. The best time to undertake the pilgrimage is during the summer and early monsoon months (May to September), when the weather is relatively pleasant and the trekking trails are in good condition.

How to Reach Panch Kedar

The journey to Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand requires both road travel and trekking. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, while the closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. From these locations, travelers can take buses or hire taxis to reach key base points such as Guptkashi, Gaurikund, Chopta, and Joshimath. From there, trekking is required to reach each temple.

Conclusion

The Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand is not just a pilgrimage; it is an extraordinary spiritual and adventure-filled journey. Each of the five temples offers a unique experience—whether it is the grandeur of Kedarnath, the mysticism of Rudranath, or the tranquility of Kalpeshwar. Undertaking this sacred journey is believed to cleanse one’s soul and bring them closer to Lord Shiva. For those seeking divine blessings, natural beauty, and an unforgettable trekking experience, the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand is a must-visit destination.