Toughest of all Kedar
Shri Rudranath Yatra
via Lyuti Bugyal - Panar Bugyal - Pitradhar - Panch Ganga
May - June & Sept - Oct 2024
₹ 12999 + 5% GST
“Not all those who wander are lost.”
Shri Rudranath Ji Yatra
via Panar Bugyal
₹12999+ 5% GST
Rishikesh to Rishikesh
₹10999/- per person (Sagar to Sagar)
+ Rs. 619 Outdoor Insurance
+ Rs. 2599 Backpack Offloading
Difficulty Level - 3
Gopeshwar- 5 Days
Temple is closing on 17th October 2024. Call us today on 9015699988 / 9411429739 to book your yatra.
Rudranath Yatra – A Sacred Journey to Fourth Kedar "Lord Shiva’s Mukha Darshan"
The Rudranath Temple is one of the holiest shrines in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit of Uttarakhand. Revered by devotees and seekers of Lord Shiva, this temple is unique as it worships the face (mukha) of Lord Shiva. For pilgrims, the Rudranath Yatra is not just a trek – it is a journey of deep devotion, spiritual awakening, and Himalayan purity.
Rudranath Location – In the Lap of the Himalayas
Rudranath's location is in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, tucked away in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. At an altitude of 3,600 meters, it can only be reached by trekking through dense forests, meadows, and ancient Himalayan trails. This seclusion makes Rudranath one of the most spiritually powerful destinations for Shiva devotees.
Rudranath Temple – Where Shiva’s Face is Worshipped
According to ancient legends, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva after the Kurukshetra war. Shiva, avoiding them, took the form of a bull and disappeared into the earth. At Rudranath, his face (mukha) appeared and is worshipped as the Rudranath Shivling.
This natural rock temple is surrounded by deep forests and sacred ponds like Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, and Tara Kund, which are believed to purify the soul.
Rudranath Trek – A Pilgrimage to Purify the Soul
For devotees, the Rudranath trek is a powerful experience of devotion, endurance, and inner peace. It begins at Sagar Village, near Gopeshwar, and ascends through alpine meadows and ancient Himalayan trails.
Rudranath Trek Distance
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From Sagar Village: approx. 20 km one way
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From Mandal via Anusuya Temple: approx. 24 km
Both routes offer captivating views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Hathi Parvat.
Rudranath Height
The Rudranath height is around 3,600 meters (11,800 feet). Pilgrims should take adequate time to acclimatize and be prepared for high-altitude conditions.
Story of Rudranath
According to the stories, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas wanted to get rid of their sins. For this, he went to Shri Krishna and sought his solution. Then Lord Krishna advised the Pandavas to go to the shelter of Lord Shankar. There are stories that Lord Shiva was angry with the Pandavas because the Pandavas destroyed their clan. So when the Pandavas reached Varanasi, Lord Shiva came and hid in Guptkashi. When the Pandavas reached Guptkashi, Bholenath reached Kedarnath and took the form of a bull. It is said that the Pandavas received blessings from Lord Shiva.
There are popular beliefs that when Lord Shankar disappeared as a bull, the upper part of his torso appeared in "Kathmandu", which is known as Pashupatinath. Then there is the worship of Lord Shiva's arms in Tungnath, the navel in Madhyamaheshwar, the shape of the bull's back and body in Shri Kedarnath. Apart from this, it is said that Lord Shiva's jata appeared in Kalpeshwar and Mukh Rudranath. These five places are called "Panchkedar". One of them is 'Rudranath Temple'.
Rare Stone Statue
It is said that in the huge natural cave near Rudranath temple, a rare stone statue of Lord Shiva is seen in the temple. In which Lord Shiva appears to his devotees with a crooked neck. It is popularly believed that this rare idol of Mahadev, the God of the Gods, is Swayambhu, and to date, no depth could be ascertained.
Plan Your Journey
Whether you’re a pilgrim or a trekking enthusiast, Rudranath offers an unmatched combination of spiritual significance and Himalayan grandeur. Prepare adequately for the trek, respect the environment, and immerse yourself in the divine energy of this sacred site.
How to reach Rudranath Temple?
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun, 258 km.
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, 241 km.
Most of the trekking routes to Rudranath are from Gopeshwar or nearby places. Most of the trekking routes to Rudranath are from Gopeshwar or nearby places. There is a motorable road to Hotel Sagar, located 5 km (3 mi) from Gopeshwar, beyond which a 20 km (12 mi) trek is required to reach Rudranath. The trek winds through tall grass, oak, and rhododendron forests. The trek path is described as slippery.
Starting Point of Rudranath Trek: The trek starts from Sagar village, Helang, or Urgam village.
Difficulty: It is considered the toughest trek among the Panch Kedar due to its steep and challenging paths.
Duration: Typically, it takes about 3-4 days to complete the trek, covering a distance of around 20 km.
Altitude: The temple is located at an altitude of 3,600 meters.
Best Time to Visit Rudranath Temple
The ideal time for this trek is from May to June and from September to October, when the weather is pleasant.
Scenery: The trail passes through dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and offers stunning views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Ghunti.
Book Your Rudranath Trek with Team Walking The Himalayas
The best way to undertake this sacred yatra is with a trusted, experienced trekking group.
✅ We recommend: Team Walking The Himalayas
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Trek Package Cost: ₹12,999 INR per person
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Inclusions: Guide, meals, accommodation (camps/guesthouse), permits, support staff
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Duration: 5 days
Why us?: Safe, budget-friendly, spiritually guided, local experts.
➡️ Book your Rudranath Yatra today and walk the path of the divine with confidence and care.
Rudranath Trek Itinerary
Here's a more detailed itinerary for the Rudranath Trek in Uttarakhand:
Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Sagar Village (250 km, 9-10 hours)
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Travel Distance: ~250 km (10–11 hrs drive)
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Altitude: Rishikesh (340 m) → Gopeshwar (1,550 m) → Sagar (1,950 m)
On the first day of the Rudranath trek via Sagar, you will start from Rishikesh early in the morning and drive towards Sagar village. The journey will be of around 250 km and will take around 9-10 hours to reach Sagar village. You will pass through the scenic towns of Devprayag and Rudraprayag, which are situated at the confluence of two rivers - Alaknanda and Mandakini, respectively.
Upon arrival at Sagar village, you will check into your pre-booked accommodation and rest for the night. You can explore the village and interact with the locals to get a glimpse of their culture and lifestyle.
Day 2: Trek from Sagar to Moli Kharak / Lyuti Bugyal
Trek Distance: ~7–8 km
Altitude Gain: 1,950 m → ~2,700 m
After an early breakfast at Sagar Village, the spiritual journey to Rudranath truly begins. The day’s trek covers approximately 7 to 8 kilometers and leads you through dense Himalayan forests filled with oak, pine, and vibrant rhododendron trees. The trail gradually ascends, offering occasional glimpses of distant snow-capped peaks and the serene valley below. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature’s untouched beauty.
By late afternoon, you’ll reach your destination—either Moli Kharak or Lyuti Bugyal—both of which are tranquil alpine meadows nestled in the lap of the mountains. These high-altitude grasslands serve as peaceful campsites, offering fresh mountain air, silence, and scenic charm. Upon arrival, tents will be set up, giving you time to relax, reflect, and absorb the spiritual stillness of the surroundings. As night falls, enjoy a hot vegetarian dinner and settle into your tent under a sky full of stars, preparing yourself for the sacred trek to Rudranath Temple the next day.
Day 3: Trek from Moli Kharak / Lyuti Bugyal to Rudranath Temple (10 km, 5-6 hours)
Trek Distance: ~10–11 km
Altitude: ~2,700 m → 3,600 m
Today is the spiritual highlight of the journey. After an early breakfast, the trek resumes, first passing through the scenic stretches of Panar Bugyal, a vast alpine meadow with panoramic views of the snow-clad Garhwal peaks. The trail gradually climbs to Pitradhar, a high point often enveloped in clouds and mythologically considered a sacred threshold. From here, the descent begins toward the holy Rudranath Temple, nestled at an altitude of 3,600 meters.
Upon arrival, you will perform darshan of the Rudranath Shivling, where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of his face (mukha). The ambiance is serene and deeply spiritual, with nearby kunds like Saraswati Kund adding to the sanctity. After spending time in prayer and reflection, you will stay in our facility, with a simple dinner and an overnight stay in the divine presence of Mahadev.
Day 4: Trek from Rudranath Temple to Sagar (22 km, 8-9 hours)
After a peaceful morning at the temple, pilgrims begin their return trek toward Sagar Village. The descent retraces the same beautiful trail via Panar and Moli Kharak, offering another chance to connect with the landscapes and reflect on the journey. The descent is easier but still long, covering around 17–18 kilometers. You’ll arrive back in Sagar Village by late afternoon or early evening, where rooms at a guesthouse or homestay await.
After some well-earned rest, dinner is served, followed by an overnight stay to prepare for the journey back to Rishikesh.
Day 5: Drive from Sagar to Rishikesh
Day 5 would involve driving from Sagar to Rishikesh, which is a distance of approximately 220 km and takes around 8-9 hours. The drive passes through scenic landscapes and offers beautiful views of the mountains and valleys. It is recommended to start the journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and reach Rishikesh in time for any onward travel plans.
Note: The itinerary can be customized based on your preferences and fitness level. It is important to hire a reliable trekking agency and follow all safety guidelines while on the trek.
Q&A
About Rudranath Temple?
Rudranath is a Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the Panch Kedar, a group of five sacred temples of Lord Shiva in the Himalayas.
How can I reach Rudranath?
The trek to Rudranath starts from the village of Sagar in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest railway station is Rishikesh. From there, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach Sagar.
What is the best time to visit Rudranath?
The best time to visit Rudranath is from May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the trekking routes are accessible.
What is the distance of the trek to Rudranath?
The trek to Rudranath is around 20 km from the village of Sagar. It takes around 3-4 days to complete the trek.
Is the trek to Rudranath difficult?
The trek to Rudranath is considered to be moderate to difficult. The trek involves a steep ascent and descent, and the route can be slippery during monsoon season. Having prior trekking experience and being physically fit to undertake this trek is recommended.
Rudranath Temple Closing Date?
Rudranath Temple will close on 17th October 2025
What is the significance of Rudranath?
Rudranath is one of the Panch Kedar and is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a face. The temple at Rudranath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered to be a holy site for Hindu pilgrims.
What are the accommodation options available at Rudranath?
There are limited accommodation options available at Rudranath, including guesthouses and campsites. It is recommended to carry your camping equipment and food supplies during the trek.
Are there any medical facilities available at Rudranath?
There are no medical facilities available at Rudranath. It is recommended to carry a first aid kit and any necessary medications during the trek.
What are the other nearby attractions that I can visit along with Rudranath?
Other nearby attractions that one can visit along with Rudranath include the Panch Kedar temples of Tungnath, Kedarnath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar. The Nanda Devi National Park and the Valley of Flowers National Park are also popular tourist destinations nearby.
Is Rudranath trek difficult?
The Rudranath trek in Uttarakhand, India can be moderately difficult due to the altitude and rugged terrain, but it is considered a doable trek for most fit and experienced trekkers.
The trek involves a total distance of around 20 km and is usually completed in 3-4 days. The trek starts from the village of Sagar and passes through dense forests, meadows, and steep climbs before reaching the Rudranath temple, which is located at an altitude of 3,600 meters. The final ascent to the temple can be challenging as it involves steep and rocky terrain.
The trek also involves camping in the mountains, which requires carrying all necessary equipment and supplies. Trekkers need to be physically fit and have some prior trekking experience to complete the Rudranath trek.
It's important to note that weather conditions can also impact the difficulty of the trek. It's best to plan the trek during the summer months when the weather is favorable and the trails are less prone to landslides and other hazards.
Rudranath trek distance?
Regarding the Rudranath Trek distance, the Rudranath trek is moderately difficult in Uttarakhand, India, and the total distance covered during the trek is approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles). The trek is usually completed in 3-4 days, depending on the itinerary and pace of the trekker.
The Rudrnath trek starts from the village of Sagar and passes through dense forests, meadows, and steep climbs before reaching the Rudranath temple, which is located at an altitude of 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). The final ascent to the temple can be challenging as it involves steep and rocky terrain.
Trekkers can also visit the nearby trekking destinations of Kalpeshwar, Tunganath, and Madhmaheshwar as part of the Panch Kedar Yatra, a pilgrimage circuit of five sacred Hindu temples in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Which is the hardest temple trek?
The hardest temple trek in India is considered to be the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which involves trekking to the holy Mount Kailash and the Mansarovar Lake in the Himalayas. The trek is considered challenging due to the high altitude, rugged terrain, extreme weather conditions, and the remoteness of the region.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra trek starts from the village of Darchen in Tibet and covers a distance of approximately 52 kilometers (32 miles) in 3-4 days. The trek involves crossing high mountain passes, rocky terrain, and a steep ascent to the Dolma La Pass, which is located at an altitude of 5,630 meters (18,471 feet).
The trek is physically and mentally demanding, and trekkers need to be in good health and fitness to complete it. The trek also involves camping in the mountains and carrying all necessary equipment and supplies, including oxygen cylinders and warm clothing due to the extreme weather conditions.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. It is believed to bring spiritual enlightenment and blessings to those who complete the trek.
Rudranath Trek Opening and Closing Date 2025?
The Rudranath Temple, part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit in Uttarakhand, is set to open for the 2025 season on 18th May 2025. This marks the beginning of the trekking and pilgrimage season, best experienced from April to June. The temple will remain open until the tentative closing date of 17th October 2025. If you’re planning to visit, it’s a great opportunity to witness the spiritual and natural beauty of the region. Have a wonderful journey!
Which is more difficult, Kedarnath or Rudranath?
The difficulty of trekking to Kedarnath or Rudranath can depend on various factors, including the specific route you take, your fitness level, and the weather conditions at the time of the trek. Both Kedarnath and Rudranath are part of the Panch Kedar circuit in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India.
Typically, the trek to Kedarnath is considered more challenging compared to Rudranath. The Kedarnath trek involves a higher altitude gain, longer distance, and steeper terrain in certain sections. The trek to Kedarnath also attracts a larger number of pilgrims, and the infrastructure in terms of accommodation and facilities may be more developed.
On the other hand, Rudranath is at a slightly lower altitude compared to Kedarnath, and the trek is generally considered moderate in difficulty. However, the difficulty level is subjective, and factors such as individual fitness, acclimatization, and weather conditions can significantly influence the trekking experience.
It's important to research the specific trek routes, elevation profiles, and current conditions before planning your trek. Additionally, consulting with experienced trekkers or local guides can provide valuable insights into the difficulty of each trek.
Included in the package
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Transport from Rishikesh to Sagar and back
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All vegetarian meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 breakfast (Breakfast and Dinner)
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Accommodations in homestays and tents
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Experienced local guide and support team
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Trekking permits and forest entry fees
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First-aid and group medical kit
Not included in the package
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Meals during transit (Day 1 and Day 5)
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Personal expenses, snacks, or bottled water
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Mule/porter services (available on request)
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Travel insurance
Cancellation
If your trek is called off at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (such as rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, etc.), we will not refund your money. Instead of cash, Walking The Himalayas will issue a trek voucher. You can easily redeem that voucher for the same amount for any of the treks available at the same price.
In case you wish to cancel your trek, please email us at help@walkingthehimalayas.com
Cancellation charges are based on the total trek fee, irrespective of the amount paid, either full or partial.
The cancellation policy of Walking The Himalayas is based on the original booking time and the original start date of the trek.
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If you cancel a trek before 30 days of trek start date and get a full refund after deduction of 1.99% payment processing fee.
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If you cancel a trek before 15 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 20% of the total trek fee.
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If you cancel a trek before 10 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 40% of the total trek fee.
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If you cancel a trek before 5 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 60% of the total trek fee.
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The Trek fee is non-refundable if you cancel within 4 days before the trek start date.
Trek cancellation due to weather:
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In case of an incomplete trek due to weather conditions, you can opt for the same trek again throughout your lifetime on all our fixed departures.
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This attempt only covers the trek fee and will not include any rentals or the transportation amount paid earlier.
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This is non-transferable.
