The ultimate sacred Shaivite trek connecting all five manifestations of Lord Shiva in Garhwal: Kedarnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar.
The Panch Kedar Trek is one of the most spiritually profound pilgrimages in Hinduism. According to the Mahabharata, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva for the bloodshed of the Kurukshetra war. Shiva took the form of a bull and dove into the ground, his body parts reappearing at five sacred sites across Garhwal.
The hump manifested at Kedarnath (3,583m), the navel and stomach at Madhyamaheshwar (3,497m), the arms at Tungnath (3,680m), the face at Rudranath (2,286m), and the hair (jata) at Kalpeshwar (2,200m).
Traversing ancient stone trails, high-altitude bugyals, and deep river gorges across Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts, completing the entire Panch Kedar circuit on foot is considered an extraordinary spiritual and physical achievement.
Trekkers are reminded to stay properly hydrated with a minimum of 3-4 liters of water daily. Uttarakhand forest regulations strictly forbid single-use plastics and campfires outside designated grounds. Always pack out non-biodegradable waste.
Along the ridgelines and summit ascents of Panch Kedar Trek, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of legendary Garhwal & Kumaon summits:
Visit Kedarnath dham and descend to Guptkashi.
Trek along Madhu Ganga to the tranquil navel shrine beneath Chaukhamba.
Visit the world’s highest Shiva temple and summit Chandrashila.
Trek through immense alpine meadows to the face-shrine of Shiva.
Visit the only Kedar open year-round with its rock cave shrine.
Complete pilgrimage circuit.
Proper layering and alpine gear are critical for comfort and survival at high altitudes:
The trailhead for Panch Kedar Trek originates from Rishikesh / Guptkashi in Rudraprayag & Chamoli district (Garhwal region).
Traditionally: 1. Kedarnath, 2. Madhyamaheshwar, 3. Tungnath, 4. Rudranath, 5. Kalpeshwar.
12 to 14 days covering driving and approximately 120 km of walking.
Tungnath at 3,680 meters (12,073 feet).
Kalpeshwar remains open throughout the year; the other four shrines close with idol transfers to winter seats.
Yes, each Kedar trek can be undertaken individually over 2 to 4 days.
Ashrams, simple guesthouses, homestays, and alpine tent camps.