Toughest of all Kedar

Rudranath Temple Trek

via Lyuti Bugyal - Panar Bugyal - Pitradhar - Panch Ganga

May - Oct

₹ 9,999/- PP

“Not all those who wander are lost.”

Rudranath Temple Trek

via Panar Bugyal

₹9,999/- PP

Rishikesh to Rishikesh

+ Rs. 619 Outdoor Insurance
+ Rs. 2599 Backpack Offloading

Temple is opening on 18th May 2026.

Call us today on 9015699988 / 9411429739 to book your yatra.

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Rudranath – A Spiritual and Scenic Himalayan Journey

Rudranath is one of the Panch Kedar temples in Uttarakhand, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s considered the most mystical and spiritually powerful among the five. Unlike Kedarnath, which is nestled in an open valley, Rudranath lies deep in the Garhwal Himalayas, surrounded by dense forests, alpine meadows, and high ridges.

Key Highlights of Rudranath:

Deity: Lord Shiva is worshipped here in the form of his face (mukha), unlike the hump in Kedarnath or arms in Tungnath.

Altitude: About 3,600 m (11,800 ft).

Trek: Reaching Rudranath requires a challenging trek through forests, meadows, and rocky paths. Routes start from Sagar Village, Mandal, or Helang.

Surroundings: From Rudranath, you can see the majestic peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and Hathi Parbat.

Mythology: According to legend, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Shiva for killing their kin. Shiva, avoiding them, took the form of a bull and disappeared into the ground. His body parts appeared at five different places—these became the Panch Kedar shrines. Rudranath is believed to be where Shiva’s face emerged.

Specialty: Unlike other temples, Rudranath is surrounded by several sacred kunds (water tanks)—Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, and Tara Kund.

Spiritual Significance:

It’s believed that offering prayers here helps one attain moksha (liberation). Many locals also perform shraddha and pind daan rituals for ancestors at Rudranath, making it a place where the mortal meets the eternal.

Rudranath Temple

The Rudranath Temple is a rock-cut sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva, where he is worshipped in the form of the face (mukha) of a bull. According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas built this shrine to atone for the sin of killing their kin in the Kurukshetra war. After being evaded by Shiva multiple times, the Lord appeared in five different places—each forming the Panch Ke,dar temples, with Rudranath being the site where his face emerged.

Unlike the more accessible Kedarnath and Tungnath temples, the Rudranath temple is the most remote and spiritually immersive. Hidden deep within the rhododendron forests and high-altitude meadows, reaching this temple feels like earning a divine audience.

Rudranath Trek Distance and Altitude

The total Rudranath trek distance varies depending on the starting point. The two most common routes are from Sagar Village and Mandal Village, both near Gopeshwar in Chamoli district:

From Sagar Village: Around 22 km (one way)
From Mandal Village via Anusuya Devi Temple: Around 24 km (one way)

The Rudranath temple sits at an elevation of approximately 3,600 meters (11,800 ft). Due to the altitude and the rugged Himalayan terrain, the trek is considered moderate to difficult, depending on the route taken and one’s physical fitness.

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 Trekking: What to Expect

Rudranath trekking is unlike typical Himalayan treks. Here’s what makes it special:

Spiritual Solitude: Unlike crowded trails, this trek offers peace, making it ideal for seekers and meditators.
Diverse Flora and Fauna: You'll pass through a range of ecosystems—oak, pine, and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows (bugyals), and rocky moraines.
Panoramic Views: Catch glorious views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Hathi Parbat.
Villager Hospitality: Encounter warm Garhwali culture, local legends, and traditional food.
Less Commercialization: The trek has minimal infrastructure, so nature remains unspoiled.

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.

Tungnath to Rudranath Trek

For seasoned trekkers, an ambitious and adventurous route involves starting from Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world. The Tungnath to Rudranath trek takes you through high mountain passes, dense forests, and remote bugyals. This trail is rarely used and requires local guides, proper equipment, and prior experience with Himalayan trekking.

It’s an incredible opportunity to connect two of the Panch Kedar temples on foot, but only advisable for fit and experienced trekkers during the favorable season.

Best Time to Visit Rudranath

The ideal months for the Rudranath Yatra and trekking are:

May to June: Post-snow season; clear skies and blooming rhododendrons
September to mid-October: After the monsoons, lush greenery and fresh air

Avoid the monsoon season (July–August) due to landslides and slippery trails. Winters (late October to April) bring heavy snow, making the temple inaccessible.

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.

Tips for Rudranath Trekking

Physical Preparation: Begin cardio and strength training at least a month before the trek.
Pack Light but Smart: Warm clothes, trekking shoes, rain gear, first-aid kit, water bottles, and dry fruits are essential.
Stay Hydrated: Acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness.
Carry Cash: There are no ATMs after Gopeshwar.
Respect the Ecosystem: Do not litter, and avoid plastic use on the trail.
Hire a Local Guide: For safety, navigation, and a richer cultural experience.

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

Trek Package Cost: ₹9,999 INR per person
Inclusions: Guide, meals, accommodation (camps/guesthouse), permits, support staff
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

Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Sagar Village (250 km, 9-10 hours)

Travel Distance: ~250 km (10–11 hrs drive)
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.

Rudranath Yatra – A Pilgrimage Beyond the Physical

The Rudranath Yatra isn’t just about reaching a temple. It’s about leaving behind the noise of everyday life and immersing yourself in silence, nature, and ancient wisdom. Walking this trail feels like entering a sacred dimension where time slows down and every step becomes a prayer.

The natural challenges along the route—steep ascents, weather unpredictability, and basic accommodations—only enhance the spiritual reward that awaits at the end.

The Rudranath Trek is one of the most soul-stirring and offbeat treks in the Indian Himalayas. Whether you're an experienced trekker, a spiritual seeker, or someone looking to experience raw Himalayan beauty, this journey offers something profound. With minimal crowds, panoramic views, and deep-rooted mythological significance, the Rudranath temple trail is not just a trek—it’s a transformative pilgrimage.

So pack your backpack, tie your laces, and prepare for a Himalayan journey that will remain etched in your memory forever. The call of Lord Shiva awaits—Har Har Mahadev!

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 the monsoon season. Having prior trekking experience and being physically fit to undertake this trek is recommended.

Rudranath Temple Opening Date?

Rudranath Temple will open on 18th May 2026.

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 2026?

The Rudranath Temple will open on 18th May 2026 at 12:57PM. This marks the beginning of the trekking and pilgrimage season, best experienced from May to October. The temple will remain open until the tentative closing date of 17th October 2026. 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

Transport from Rishikesh to Sagar and back
All vegetarian meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 breakfast (Breakfast and Dinner)
Accommodations in homestays and tents
Experienced local guide and support team
Trekking permits and forest entry fees
First-aid and group medical kit

Not included in the package

Meals during transit on Day 1 and Day 5
Personal expenses, snacks, or bottled water
Mule/porter services (available on request)
Travel insurance

Cancellation

If your trek gets called off at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rains, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, etc.) we will not refund your money. Instead of money, 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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
The Trek fee is non-refundable if you cancel within 4 days before the trek start date.

Trek cancellation due to weather:

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.
This attempt only covers the trek fee and will not include any rentals or the transportation amount paid earlier.
This is non-transferable.