- #1 Rated Panch Kedar Yatra in Uttarakhand-5 temPles,12 days
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 2026
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
According to Hindu mythology, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas went in search of Lord Shiva to seek his blessings. To avoid them, Lord Shiva transformed himself into a bull and disappeared into the ground. His body later reappeared in five different parts at separate locations, which are now known as the Panch Kedar temples of Uttarakhand. 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 for panch kedar trek 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
Basic Gears
Backpack
Waterproof Shoes
Trekking Pole ( For Gaurikund hike)
LED Torch
One water Bottle with Water Purification tablets
Basic Medications (or prescribed if any
Sunglasses
Clothes
Warm Layers
3 trek pants
Fleece Jacket/Windcheater Jacket
Down Jacket
Three/Four Pair of Socks
Full sleeve dry-fit T-shirts – 3-4
Towel (Quickdry)
Accessories
Toilet Paper
Sunscreen Lotion(SPF 50/70)
Lip Balm (SPF 30)
Woolen Gloves
Woolen Cap
Lunch Box ( Ask your Sales Person first )
Poncho
Plastic Cover (For wet clothes in winters and rainy season)
Mandatory Documents
Orginal/Photocopy of Governament photo identity card
(Passport, Aadhar Card, Driving License or Voters Id)
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 Rishikesh to Guptkashi
- 4,400 ft
- 8-9 hours
- Hotel
Your journey begins early from the yoga capital, Rishikesh.
The drive winds along the NH 7, offering immediate
immersion into the Garhwal Himalayas. A major highlight
is passing through Devprayag, where you can witness the
stunning confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda
rivers forming the holy Ganga.Continue driving parallel to
the Alaknanda River, passing through Rudraprayag
(confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini) and
Agastyamuni. Stop at local roadside dhabas for an
authentic mountain lunch of dal, rice, and fresh vegetables.
Arrive in Sonprayag or Guptkashi. . Check into your
guesthouse, rest, and pack a smaller bag for the Kedarnath
ascent.
Day 2 : Drive - 5 km + Trek - 16 km Guptkashi to Kedarnath via Gaurikund
- Drive - 30 min + Trek - 7 to 8 hours
- Camp/ Dormatory
Take a local shared jeep from Sonprayag to Gauri Kund.
Visit the Gauri Kund hot springs and the Maa Parvati Temple
before passing through the entry gate to begin your trek.
The trail follows the Mandakini River. You will hike through
Jungle Chatti and Bheem Bali. The incline becomes steeper
as you cross the river at Rambara and head toward
Linchauli.
Arrive at Kedarnath Base Camp. The final kilometer opens
up to a mesmerizing view of the Kedarnath Temple set
against the towering, snow-clad Kedar Dome (22,411 ft). Attend
the evening Aarti, a deeply moving spiritual experience, and
stay overnight in a GMVN dormitory or local camp
Day 3 : Trek 16 km + Drive - 45 km Kedarnath to Gaurikund and to Ukhimath/Ransi
- Trek - 6 to 7 Hrs + Drive - 2 hours
- Homestay
Wake up early for the morning Darshan at Kedarnath.
Afterward, begin your 17 KM descent back to Gauri Kund.
Using trekking poles is highly advised here to protect your
knees on the steep downward slopes. Reach Gauri Kund,
take a shared jeep back to Sonprayag to collect your main
luggage, and begin the drive toward Ukhimath or Ransi
village.
Arrive at your guesthouse. Ukhimath is the winter seat of
Lord Kedarnath and offers a peaceful environment to
recover from the massive altitude gain and loss of the past
two days.
Day 4 : Drive - 23 Km ,Trek 6 km Ukhimath to Ransi and trek to Gaundhar
- Drive - 1 hr, Trek - 3 to 4 hours
- Homestay
From Ukhimath, drive to Ransi Village, the official starting
point for the Madhyamaheshwar trek. Ransi is a quaint
settlement showcasing traditional Garhwali architecture
and lifestyle.
Begin a moderate 6 KM descent through dense, lush green
forests and sparkling mountain streams. The sounds of the
Madhyamaheshwar Ganga river will accompany you.
Arrive at Gaundhar, a serene village situated at the river
confluence. Settle into a local homestay, enjoy the
tranquility of the forest, and prepare for tomorrow
‘
s steep
ascent.
Day 5 : Trek- 10 km Gaundhar to Madhmaseswar
- Trek - 6-7 hours
- Homestay/Lodge
Start your trek early. The trail from Gaundhar to
Madhyamaheshwar is a continuous, steep ascent. You will
walk through rich biodiversity, including dense oak and
vibrant rhododendron forests (especially beautiful if
traveling in May/June). Break for packed lunch or at small
tea stalls along the route. As you clear the tree line, the
landscape opens up into vast, rolling alpine meadows.
Arrive at the Madhyamaheshwar Temple, where the navel
of Lord Shiva is worshipped. The temple sits in a
spectacular meadow flanked by the Chaukhamba peaks.
Spend the night in a basic community hall or homestay.
Day 6 : Trek - 16 Km, Drive- 50 Km, Madhmasheswar to Ransi and drive to Chopta
- Trek - 8-9 hours, Drive - 2 hours
- Homestay
Wake up before dawn and hike 2 KM to Budha
Madhyamaheshwar for an unmatched, panoramic sunrise
view over the Garhwal Himalayan range. Nestled at an
elevation of approximately 3,497 meters, it offers stunning,
grand views of the Chaukhamba Peaks Afterward, begin
the long descent back to Ransi. Reach Ransi, board your
vehicle, and drive toward Chopta. The drive features
terraced fields and thick woodland.
Settle into your campsite or guesthouse in Chopta, enjoying
the crisp mountain air and starry skies.
Day 7 : Trek- 9 km, Drive - 35 km Chopta to Tungnath and drive to Sagar
- Trek - 4 to 6 hours, Drive - 1 Hour 20 min
- Camp/Homestay
Begin the ascent from Chopta to Tungnath, the highest
Shiva temple in the world. The paved trail is short (about 3
KM) but steep. Here, the arms of Lord Shiva are
worshipped. Continue the climb for another 1.5 KM to the
Chandrashila Summit. This vantage point offers
breathtaking 360-degree views of Nanda Devi, Trishul,
and Kedar peaks. Descend back to Chopta.
Drive to Sagar Village, the base camp for the most
physically demanding leg of the Panch Kedar circuit. Rest
well in a local homestay.
Day 8 : Trek - 8 to 9 km (Sagar to Lyuti)Sagar to Panar/lyuti Bugyal
- Drive - 5 to 6 hours
- Camps
The trek to Rudranath is notoriously challenging. Begin the
steep climb from Sagar, navigating through dense, dark
forests that are home to Monal birds, forest sheep, and
occasional brown bears.
The grueling climb rewards you as you break through the
forest canopy into the expansive, breathtaking grasslands
of Panar Bugyal.
Set up camp in the meadows. Because this is a protected
forest zone, permanent structures are not allowed, so you
will spend the night in tents under the Himalayan sky
Day 9 : Trek- 13 km (Both Side) Lyuti to Rudranath and back to Lyuti/panar
- Trek - 7 to hours
- Camps
Leave your heavy backpacks at the campsite and trek
towards Rudranath. The trail is an undulating ridge walk
crossing Pitradhar (the Highest Point of the trek) and after
that descending slightly into the temple valley.
Arrive at the Rudranath Temple, a rock temple
surrounded by alpine flowers, where the face (Mukha) of
Lord Shiva is worshipped. After Darshan, retrace your
steps back to the meadows. Return to your tents at Panar
Bugyal for a well-earned dinner and rest.
Day 10 : Trek - 8 to 9 Km, Drive 40 Km Lyuti/Panar Bugyal to Sagar Village and drive to Urgam
- Trek - 5 to 6 hours, Drive 1 hour and 30 min
- Homestay
Begin the long, steep descent back to Sagar village. It is a
testing day for the knees and toes, so proceed slowly and
steadily. Reach Sagar village, reunite with your vehicle, and
drive toward Pipalkoti or the Urgam Valley, preparing for
the final, easiest leg of the Panch Kedar.
Check into a hotel or homestay, enjoy a hot shower (likely
your first in days), and relax.
Day 11 : Trek- 400 meter Explore kalpsewar and stay in Urgam
- 3,200 meters → 1,981 meters
- Trek - 30 min
- Homestay
Drive into the beautiful Urgam Valley, famous for its apple
orchards and terrace farming. From the road head, it is a
short, easy walk to the Kalpeshwar Temple.
Kalpeshwar is the only Panch Kedar temple open yearround. It is a small rock cave where Lord Shivas Jata
(matted locks) are worshipped. Spend some quiet time in
meditation here, concluding your spiritual circuit.
We will spend the night at Urgam, explore the villlage life
today.
Day 12 : Drive- 250 km Urgam village to Rishikesh
- Drive - 7 to 9 hours
After breakfast, commence the long drive back toward
Rishikesh. Follow the winding rivers back down the
mountains, watching the landscape transition from high
peaks back to the bustling foothills. Arrive in Rishikesh by
early evening, marking the successful completion of the
magnificent Panch Kedar Yatra.
Panchkedar Trek Packages & Pricing
Transparent pricing with everything included. No hidden costs, no surprises.
- All-Inclusive Package
₹40,000
+ GST
12 Days | 5 Temples | 107 KM Trek | All Meals Included
- What's Included
- Transport support from Rishikesh to Rishikesh
- All Veg meals(Breakfast and Dinner) starting from day 1 to the last day( Lunch is not included)
- Accommodation throughout the trek on sharing basis( Camp/Homestay/Guesthouse)
- Professional guide, and support staff
- Forest entry charges for Indian nationals.
- Certified Outdoor Educator
- High safety standards - Oxygen cylinder, Pulse ocymeter, BP machine and High altitude medical kit
- Not Included
- Lunch is not included
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc
- Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above
- Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions
- Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, road blocks etc
- Porter/mule charges to carry personal luggage can be arranged at an additional cost of INR 700 per day (1 soft bag per person < 12 kg)
What Our Trekkers Say
Real experiences from real adventurers who completed the sacred Panchkedar journey with us.
Had an amazing experience travelling with Mountainiax.. The trip was very well planned and all the communication was done nicely. The trek leaders made sure that everyone is safe while travelling. The
food was delicious and they even provided us with snacks every evening. This was my very first experience where I had to trek for continuous days and the whole team of Mountainiax made me feelso comfortable and were very helpful throughout our travel.
Manika
Valley of flowers Trek
It was beautiful trek but the team efforts made it perfect. They helped us through out the trek and gave us best accommodation&hospitality. I highly recommend them for anyone looking for trek. A
special thanks to Mountainiax team and trek leaders Saurabh and Akshay.
See you super soon for next trip.
Vanita kinra
Kedarkantha Trek
It was my first ever trek with my friends.It turned out to be a really wonderful experience with Mountainaix, especially Ankit and Sourav made us really comfortable in the whole trip. We three girls
were initially apprehensive about travelling without any guy friend, but now I am even confident of traveling solo with this team.
Everything went really well and would love to travel again with Mountainaix.
Pooja khuntia
Chopta Tungnath Trek
Much appreciate the services and the guides that accompanied us on the trip. Ankit & Akshay loved
the kind of precision they have in understanding the trekk, roads, snow and how to cross these with utmost confidence ensuring that our lives are saved when doing difficult trek. Kudos to the team of
Mountainiax, highly recommended
Akansha
Dayara Bugyal Trek
10,000+
Happy Trekkers
4.9/5
Average Rating
98%
Would Recommend
Panch Kedar Temple Opening Dates 2026
All five Panch Kedar temples open in May 2026.
Check exact dates and plan your Yatra in advance
to secure your preferred batch.
For detailed info read our blog on Panch Kedar Opening Dates
| Temple | Opening Date 2026 | Closing Date 2026 | Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath | 2 May 2026 Akshaya Tritiya | November 2026 | 11,755 ft |
| Tungnath | May 2026 | November 2026 | 12,073 ft |
| Rudranath | May 2026 | November 2026 | 11,600 ft |
| Madhyamaheshwar | May 2026 | November 2026 | 11,450 ft |
| Kalpeshwar | Open Year Round | Open Year Round | 6,900 ft |
* Exact dates announced by Uttarakhand temple committees. Book 4-6 weeks in advance to secure your preferred batch dates.
Panch Kedar Trek vs Char Dham Yatra
Not sure which pilgrimage is right for you?
Here is a clear comparison to help you decide.
- If you are a devoted Shiva bhakt who loves trekking and wants an intimate less crowded spiritual experience — Panch Kedar Trek is the perfect choice. It is more physically demanding but far more rewarding in natural beauty and spiritual depth.
- 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?
