- #1 Rated Spiritual Trek in Uttarakhand
Panch Kedar Trek
Start your Panch Kedar Yatra in 2026—visit all 5 sacred Panch Kedar temples: Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar & Kalpeshwar. The complete Panch Kedar Trek with route map & photos.
- Duration
12 Days
- Max Altitude
12,000 Ft
- Trek Distance
107 KM
- Difficulty
Moderate+
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What is Panch Kedar? Complete Guide to Panch Kedar Trek
The Panch Kedar Trek (also known as Panch Kedar Yatra) is one of the most revered spiritual pilgrimages in Hinduism, taking devotees through five ancient Panch Kedar temples in Uttarakhand, India. This sacred journey through the Garhwal Himalayas covers all 5 Panch Kedar temple sites.
According to Hindu mythology, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva to absolve their sins. Lord Shiva took the form of a bull (Nandi) and hid in the mountains. When found, he dived into the ground, with his body parts appearing at five different locations—these became the Panch Kedar temples that form the Panch Kedar route map.
Panch Kedar Ke Naam - The Five Sacred Temple Names:
Kedarnath: The hump (back) of Lord Shiva – Most sacred Jyotirlinga | First Panch Kedar temple
Tungnath: The arms of Lord Shiva – World’s highest Shiva temple | Second Panch Kedar temple
Rudranath: The face of Lord Shiva – Most challenging trek | Third Panch Kedar temple
Madhyamaheshwar: The navel of Lord Shiva – Scenic valley setting | Fourth Panch Kedar temple
Kalpeshwar: The matted locks (Jata) of Lord Shiva – Year-round accessible | Fifth Panch Kedar temple
This 12-day Panch Kedar Trek covers approximately 107 kilometers, reaching altitudes up to 12,000 feet. The Panch Kedar route map takes you through dense rhododendron forests, pristine alpine meadows (bugyals), ancient villages, and panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Trishul peaks. Check out our Panch Kedar photos for a visual journey.
Unlike the Char Dham Yatra, the Panch Kedar Yatra in Uttarakhand is less crowded, offering a more intimate connection with nature and divinity. It’s considered the complete pilgrimage for Shiva devotees seeking the authentic Panch Kedar experience.
Trek Detail
Location
Uttarakhand, India
Total Distance
107 KM Trek + 500 KM Drive
Duration
12 Days / 11 Nights
Best Time to Visit
May - June
Pre-monsoon, clear skies
September - October
Post-monsoon, lush greenery
Temperature
Day: 10-20°C | Night: 0-5°C
- Panch Kedar Temples - Sacred Destinations
Panch Kedar Ke Naam: The 5 Sacred Temples
Panch Kedar in Uttarakhand — According to Hindu mythology, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva took the form of a bull and divided himself into five parts, appearing at these five locations. View Panch Kedar photos and temple details below.
- Uttarakhand, India • 11,755 ft
Kedarnath Temple
The most sacred among Panch Kedar, Kedarnath is believed to be where Lord Shiva’s hump (back) appeared. This ancient temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and a key destination in Char Dham Yatra.
Mythology: Built by the Pandavas to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings after the Kurukshetra war.
- Uttarakhand, India • 12,073 ft
Tungnath Temple
The world’s highest Shiva temple Tungnath, is where Lord Shiva’s arms appeared. The trek leads to Chandrashila peak, offering panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks.
Mythology: Over 1,000 years old, believed to be built by Arjuna.
- Uttarakhand, India • 11,600 ft
Rudranath Temple
Nestled in pristine alpine meadows, Rudranath Temple is where Lord Shiva’s face is worshipped. The trek passes through dense forests and offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.
Mythology: The only Panch Kedar where Lord Shiva’s face is worshipped.
- Uttarakhand, India • 11,450 ft
Madhyamaheshwar Temple
Set in a beautiful valley, Madhyamaheshwar is where Lord Shiva’s navel (madhya bhag) appeared. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, it offers serene spiritual experience.
Mythology: Connected to the same legend as other Panch Kedar temples.
- Uttarakhand, India • 11,755 ft
Kalpeshwar Temple
The only Panch Kedar temple accessible year-round, Kalpeshwar is where Lord Shiva’s matted hair (jata) is worshipped. Located in a mystical cave setting with cascading waterfalls nearby.
Mythology: Unique cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva’s sacred locks.
- Panch Kedar Photos
Panch Kedar Photo Gallery
Explore stunning Panch Kedar photos of all 5 sacred temples and trek routes in Uttarakhand. Visual journey through the Panch Kedar Yatra experience.
Trek Route
Kedarnath Temple
Trek Route
Tungnath Temple
Trek Route
Rudranath Temple
Trek Route
Madhyamaheshwar Temple
Trek Route
Kalpeshwar Temple
More Panch Kedar photos available during the trek. Capture memories at every Panch Kedar temple!
- Essential Trek Information
Everything About Panch Kedar Trek
Complete guide covering best time, difficulty, preparation tips, packing list, and how to reach for your Panch Kedar Yatra in Uttarakhand.
Best Time to do the Panch Kedar Trek
The best time for Panch Kedar Yatra is during two seasons:
Pre-Monsoon (May – June): Clear skies, pleasant weather, and blooming rhododendrons. Ideal for photography and clear Himalayan views.
Post-Monsoon (September – October): Lush green landscapes after monsoon, excellent visibility, and comfortable trekking temperatures.
Avoid: July-August (heavy rainfall, landslides) and November-April (heavy snowfall, temples closed).
Difficulty Level of Panch Kedar Trek
The Panch Kedar Trek is rated Moderate to Difficult based on several factors:
• Total Distance: 107 km of trekking over 12 days • Maximum Altitude: 12,073 ft (Tungnath Temple) • Daily Walking: 6-8 hours on most trek days • Terrain: Mix of steep ascents, rocky paths, and forest trails
Fitness Requirement: You should be able to jog 5 km in 30 minutes or walk 10 km in 70 minutes. Prior high-altitude trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory.
Preparation for Panch Kedar Trek
Start preparing at least 2 months before your Panch Kedar Yatra:
Physical Training: • Daily jogging/running (5 km minimum) • Stair climbing (20-30 minutes) • Squats, lunges, and core exercises • Practice with a loaded backpack
Medical Preparation: • Complete health checkup • Consult doctor about altitude sickness • Carry prescribed medications
Mental Preparation: • Research the Panch Kedar route map • Understand temple significance • Prepare for basic accommodation
Things to Carry for Panch Kedar Trek
Clothing: • Trekking shoes with ankle support • 3-4 quick-dry t-shirts • 2 trek pants • Thermal inner wear • Fleece/down jacket • Waterproof rain jacket • Woolen cap, gloves, sunglasses
Essentials: • 40-60L backpack • Trekking poles • Headlamp with extra batteries • Sunscreen SPF 50+ • Personal first aid kit • Water bottle (2L capacity) • Camera for Panch Kedar photos
*Note: Sleeping bags and tents are provided in the package.*
How to Reach Panch Kedar Trek Base - Rishikesh
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (35 km from Rishikesh). Flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore.
By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station or Haridwar Junction (25 km). Well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata.
By Road: • Delhi to Rishikesh: 240 km (5-6 hours) • Haridwar to Rishikesh: 25 km (45 minutes) • Regular buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi
Our Service: We provide Rishikesh to Rishikesh transportation covering the complete Panch Kedar route map.
Special Leave Planning for Panch Kedar Yatra
Trek Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Leave Planning Tips: • Plan around long weekends or festivals • May-June batches: Combine with summer vacation • September-October: Post Navratri batches available
Sample Leave Structure: • If trek starts Saturday: Need only 8-9 working days off • Consider buffer day for travel delays
Our 2026 Batch Dates: May: 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd June: 1st, 8th, 15th September: 15th, 22nd October: 1st, 8th
Nearby Attractions to Visit After Panch Kedar Trek
Extend your Uttarakhand trip with these nearby attractions:
Spiritual Sites: • Badrinath Temple (Part of Char Dham) • Hemkund Sahib • Valley of Flowers (UNESCO World Heritage)
Adventure Activities: • River Rafting in Rishikesh • Bungee Jumping at Jumpin Heights • Camping at Shivpuri
Hill Stations: • Auli – Skiing destination • Chopta – Mini Switzerland • Nainital – Lake district
*We can help arrange extended itineraries upon request.*
Why Trek With Us?
Mountainiax don’t just organize treks—we create transformative spiritual journeys that stay with you forever.
Safety First Approach
Certified guides, first-aid trained staff, and emergency evacuation protocols ensure your complete safety throughout the trek.
Expert Local Guides
Our experienced Garhwali guides know every trail, temple, and hidden gem. They share authentic stories and ensure cultural immersion.
15+ Years Experience
Successfully organized 500+ Panchkedar expeditions with 15,000+ happy trekkers. We know the route like the back of our hand.
Small Group Size
Maximum 15 trekkers per batch ensures personalized attention, better bonding, and a more intimate spiritual experience.
All-Inclusive Package
Transportation, meals, accommodation, permits, and temple arrangements - everything taken care of so you focus on the journey.
24/7 Support
From booking to trek completion, our support team is available round the clock for any queries or emergencies.
15+
Years Experience
500+
Successful Treks
15K+
Happy Trekkers
4.9
Star Rating
12-Day Panchkedar Trek Itinerary
A carefully crafted journey balancing trekking, driving, and spiritual experiences across all five sacred temples.
Day 1 : 215 km drive Rishikesh to Pipalkoti
- 4,400 ft
- 8-9 hours
- Hotel
Begin your sacred journey with a scenic drive from Rishikesh through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag. Witness the confluence of sacred rivers.
Day 2 : 70 km round trip Pipalkoti to Kalpeshwar & Back
- 6,900 ft
- 4 hours
- Hotel
Visit the first Panch Kedar temple – Kalpeshwar, where Lord Shiva’s matted locks are worshipped. The only temple accessible year-round.
Day 3 : 30 km drive + 8 km trek Pipalkoti to Sagar to Lyuti Bugyal
- 10,000 ft
- 1 hour drive + 6-7 hours trek
- Tent
Begin your sacred journey with a scenic drive from Rishikesh through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag. Witness the confluence of sacred rivers.
Day 4 : 18 km trek Lyuti Bugyal to Rudranath & Back
- 11,600 ft
- 10-12 hours
- Tent
The most challenging day – trek to Rudranath temple where Lord Shiva’s face is worshipped. Witness breathtaking views of Nanda Devi and Trishul.
Day 5 : 8 km trek + 80 km drive Lyuti Bugyal to Sagar to Chopta
- 8,900 ft
- 6 hours trek + 3 hours drive
- Hotel
Descend to Sagar village and drive to Chopta, known as ‘Mini Switzerland of India’. Rest and prepare for Tungnath.
Day 6 : 8 km trek Chopta to Tungnath to Chandrashila
- 13,123 ft
- 6-7 hours
- Hotel
Trek to world’s highest Shiva temple – Tungnath, then summit Chandrashila peak for 360° panoramic Himalayan views.
Day 7 : 65 km drive Chopta to Ukhimath to Ransi
- 7,200 ft
- 3 hours
- Homestay
Drive through beautiful mountain villages to Ransi, experiencing authentic Garhwali culture and hospitality.
Day 8 : 24 km trek Ransi to Madhyamaheshwar
- 11,450 ft
- 8-9 hours
- Tent/Guesthouse
Trek to Madhyamaheshwar temple through lush meadows and forests. The temple sits in a stunning valley surrounded by peaks.
Day 9 : 24 km trek Madhyamaheshwar to Ransi
- 7,200 ft
- 6-7 hours
- Homestay
Descend back to Ransi through the same beautiful trail, enjoying different perspectives of the landscape.
Day 10 : 80 km drive Ransi to Guptkashi to Gaurikund
- 6,500 ft
- 4 hours
- Hotel
Drive to Gaurikund, the base for Kedarnath trek. Visit Guptkashi and the famous Vishwanath temple en route.
Day 11 18 km trek Gaurikund to Kedarnath
- 11,755 ft
- 7-8 hours
- Guesthouse
The final and most sacred leg – trek to Kedarnath, the holiest of Panch Kedar temples. Witness the magnificent temple amidst snow peaks.
Day 12 18 km trek + 220 km drive Kedarnath to Gaurikund to Rishikesh
- 1,100 ft
- 5 hours trek + 8 hours drive
Early morning darshan at Kedarnath, then descend and drive back to Rishikesh with lifelong memories of the sacred Panch Kedar Yatra.
Panchkedar Trek Packages & Pricing
Transparent pricing with everything included. No hidden costs, no surprises.
- All-Inclusive Package
₹39000
+ GST
12 Days | 5 Temples | 107 KM Trek | All Meals Included
- What's Included
- Rishikesh to Rishikesh transportation
- All meals during the trek (Veg + Eggs)
- Accommodation (Hotels/Homestays/Tents)
- Expert trek leaders and support staff
- First aid medical kit
- Forest permits and temple fees
- Trekking equipment (tents, sleeping bags)
- Backup oxygen cylinder
- Not Included
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Personal expenses and tips
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Helicopter rides if required
- Any meals not mentioned
- Pony/Porter charges for personal luggage
Upcoming Batches
17 May - 28 May 2026
- 8 slots available
24 May - 04 Jun 2026
- 12 slots available
31 May - 11 Jun 2026
- 15 slots available
06 Jun - 17 Jun 2026
- 10 slots available
Limited Spots!
Our batches fill up fast. Book early to secure your preferred dates.
What Our Trekkers Say
Real experiences from real adventurers who completed the sacred Panchkedar journey with us.
“The Panchkedar Trek was a life-changing experience. The organization was flawless, guides were knowledgeable about each temple’s history, and the spiritual energy at each site was overwhelming. Highly recommend for anyone seeking both adventure and inner peace.”
Rahul Sharma
Mumbai, Maharashtra
October 2024
“As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe throughout the journey. The team took excellent care of everyone. The sunrise at Chandrashila and darshan at Kedarnath were moments I’ll cherish forever. Worth every rupee!”
Priya Nair
Bangalore, Karnataka
September 2024
“We’ve done many treks, but Panchkedar stands out. The perfect blend of physical challenge and spiritual fulfillment. The local guides shared fascinating stories about each temple. Food was amazing – they even remembered our dietary preferences!”
Amit & Sunita Gupta
Delhi
October 2024
“At 55, I was worried about managing the trek. The team assessed my fitness well and provided personal attention when needed. The safety protocols gave me confidence. Completing all 5 Kedars was my life’s achievement!”
Dr. Sanjay Kulkarni
Pune, Maharashtra
May 2024
10,000+
Happy Trekkers
4.9/5
Average Rating
98%
Would Recommend
- Panch Kedar Trek FAQs
Panch Kedar Yatra: Frequently Asked Questions
Complete guide covering best time, difficulty, preparation tips, packing list, and how to reach for your Panch Kedar Yatra in Uttarakhand.
What is Panch Kedar and what are the Panch Kedar ke naam (temple names)?
What is the Panch Kedar route map and trek distance?
What is the best time for Panch Kedar Yatra in Uttarakhand?
How difficult is the Panch Kedar Trek? Can beginners attempt it?
What is the total cost of Panch Kedar Trek package?
Where can I see Panch Kedar photos and temple images?
What is the minimum age requirement for Panch Kedar Yatra?
What type of accommodation is provided during Panch Kedar Trek?
Is Panch Kedar Trek safe? What safety measures are in place?
What should I pack for Panch Kedar Trek?
Still have questions?
