Significance of the Panch Kedar temples
The Panch Kedar Yatra, The Holy pilgrimage, The spiritual land, The glory of Uttarakhand, Garhwal Himalayas are well known to the world. It’s a walk through the five divine ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva- Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar & Kalpeshwar.
The journey takes you through the remote mountains into the path of peace, faith, and mythology. These five temples are believed to have originated around the era of ‘Mahabharata’.
It is believed that the Pandavas were so much guilty after the Mahabharata war ( Kurukshetra) that they went along the way to get lord shiva’s forgiveness and went to these Himalayas. Lord Shiva took the form of a bull in order to avoid them which didn’t work with a planned and they found him where he disappeared on the ground and later appeared at five different places each one of them now has the significance of ‘ The Pnach Kedars’ And at each of these places all different parts of Lord Shiva are still worshipped.
Panch Kedar yatra is much more than just a Yatra, it’s a walk through the Himalayas where you discover a different life and get to know yourself better, you get close to reality and every other problem seems so less in front of it.
The Panch Kedars
After the Mahabharata war as the Pandavas went to the Himalayas for Lord Shivas’ forgiveness, Shiv turned himself into bul and later disappeared into the ground and appeared at five different places. And at each of these Panch Cedars different parts of Lord Shivas are worshipped ever since.
- Kedarnath- ( Appearance of bulls hump) It is located in the Kedarnath region of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3,583 meters. The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to October. The other significance is that this was built by the Pandavas and later Adi Sankaracharya revived it.
- Tungnath ( Bulls arm appeared here) Tungnath is located in Chopta, Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3,680 meters. You can visit here from around May to October. This trek passed through Chopta, dense forest, and beautiful meadows with a panoramic view of Chandrashila peak.
- Rudranath ( Bulls face appeared here) Rudranath is another mystery among all the panch kedar located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 2,286 meters. You can visit here for the best experience from June to October. It’s a 29 km trek and has holy water sources surrounding it like Vasuki Lake.
- Madhyamaheshwar ( Naal of bull appeared here) Madhyamaheshwar, representing the navel of the bull ( Lord Shiva) is located in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand at 3,490 meters altitude. It is beautifully rested in the Chaukhamba mountain range and has a beautiful trek in between the alpine terrains and vast biodiversity.
- Kalpeshwar ( Bulls hair appeared here) Kalpeshwar is the only one among Panch Kedar temples that is open for pilgrims throughout the year. It is located in Urgam Valley, Uttarakhand at an altitude of 2,200 meters. It symbolizes the jata ( hair ) of Lord Shiva carved in the rock and is famous for the apple orchard.
Essentials to Pack for the Panch Kedar Yatra
- Clothing layers for specific weather are a must. Keep mandatory layering items like thermal inners (top & bottom) and fleece or woolen jackets. Bag Cover or waterproof windcheater and down jacket. Carry Rapid-dry T-shirts and trekking pants as per the need. In cases of extreme cold carry a Woolen cap, gloves, and muffler.
- For footwear, prefer high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip and endurance, Carry an extra pair of socks ( cotton & woolen). Keep Crocs of slippers for a campsite or when shoes become unbearable.
- Carry a suitable backpack ( around 30-50 liters) & Rain Cover for backpacks and other items.
- Personal Care & toiletries are other essentials, make sure you have your biodegradable soap, wet wipes, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, hand towels, and sanitizers.
- Medicines & First Aid are other mandatory items you should carry. Basic first aid kits and personal medications can be lifesavers for you and even others.
- For the safe side carry documents & IDs and other registration proofs.
- Electronics like PowerBanks, chargers, memory cards, and batteries if you have an Amera are other important items.
- You can also carry your preferred spiritual items like- a prayer book, japa mala, or any other spiritual piece.
Trek Guidelines
- Make sure of your physical Fitness & start your preps before the trek. Do cardio, run, and practice acclimatization.
- Make sure to pick the correct time to join the trek as per your comfort and capability.
- Keep all permits and registration-related proofs and IDs with you in case of emergencies.
- Bring comfortable and compatible clothing and equipment. You don’t want your unfit clothing or uncomfortable shoes to hold you back.
- Learn basic first aid and drink enough water before you join the pilgrim.
Myar Pahad : The Best Trekking Companion
Myar Pahad is dedicated to making each one of your trek experiences the best. We are on a mission to take you on an adventure full of memories, fun laughter, and shared moments.
We have a team of professionals when it comes to leading the trek and taking care of you at each step. We walk along your side and you are in safe hands with us. We are very well aware of the mountains and Himalayas and we know their stories and understand them the best which allows us to get you to understand the culture and settle best in those remote locations.
At Myar Pahad we customize your treks as per your comfort and convenience. It’s not just another trip with us but an experience you don’t get anywhere else.
Expand Your Adventure List With Our Upcoming Treks
- Dayara Bugyal
- Kedarkantha
- Har Ki Doon
- Chandrashila
- Gaumukh
- Hampta Pass
- Gaumukh Tapovan
- Valley Of Flowers
- Roopkund
- Harsil Trek
- Kyarkoti Trek
- Dodital
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 5 Panch Kedar temples?
The 5 Panch Kedar temples are sacred in Uttarakhand and are dedicated to Lord Shiva. These temples are situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand as Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.
In which order should I visit Panch Kedar?
The panch kedar in correct order follows the path of Pandavas and has traditional and spiritual significance so pilgrims tend to follow this are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.
How difficult is the Panch Kedar trek?
The Panch Kedar yatra is moderately difficult. There are steep climbs, long walks, and high altitudes and it might be challenging for you if you are not physically fit or prepared. With proper preparation and guides, you can easily complete it with full fun and adventure.
What is the best time to visit Panch Kedar?
The best time to visit the Panch kedar is from May to October which is basically done from May to June and September to early November. At this time the temple doors are open and the weather is also pretty convenient.
Is the Panch Kedar Yatra suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, Panch Kedar yatra can be done solo but it’s better fun when done with groups or a good company to share your moments with. The Panch Kedar routes are pretty touchy and there can be certain points where you might need someone along. So better go with someone or join a group for your safety concerns.
Do I need a guide for the Panch Kedar Yatra?
Yes, the Panch Kedar route is remote and at a high altitude and it is recommended to carry a guide or groups along for your safety and help.
What should I pack for the Panch Kedar trek?
Since the yatra is at a higher altitude and the weather there can be unpredictable often it is recommended to pack warm layers, comfortable and durable trekking shoes, bagcovers, and raincoats or ponchos. Your personal medications, toiletries, water packs, sunscreen, chargers, and other useful things you prefer.
Are there accommodation and food facilities on the way?
Yes, several accommodations and stays like homestays, guesthouses, tents, and small eateries are available on the Panch Kedar trek route.
How long does it take to complete the Panch Kedar Yatra?
It usually takes 10-15 days to complete the Pnach cedars and it generally depends on individuals or the group, their pace, the wearer, plans, and certain other factors.
Do I need any special permissions or passes for the yatra?
Yes, basic permits are needed for the Panch Kedar Yatra. Moreover, you should carry valid IDs and for foreigners, visas and Passports are a must. At some points, you will also need registrations.
Do I have to visit all five temples in one go?
No. It is not mandatory to visit Panch Kears in one go. You can complete one temple at a time as per your convenience like most of the pilgrims choose to complete the yatra in different parts.
Why is Kalpeshwar special among the five?
Kalpeshwar is the only one among the Panch Kedar temples that is open all year. This place has significance as Lord Shiva’s jata ( hair) is worshipped here, and it has an unusual spiritual ambiance.
