Shiva Circuit · 5 stops
Pancha Kedar
Five sacred Shiva temples in the Garhwal Himalayas linked to the Mahabharata — where parts of Nandi (Shiva's bull) are said to have appeared when the Pandavas sought Shiva's blessings after the war.
Pilgrimage Stops (5)
Kedarnath
Shiva's hump (koop). Most famous of the five, at 3,583 m. 16 km trek from Gaurikund or helicopter. Base for the other four.
Tungnath
Shiva's arms (bahu). Highest Shiva temple in the world at 3,680 m. Easy 3.5 km trek from Chopta (the "Meadow of Uttarakhand"). Spectacular Himalayan views.
Rudranath
Shiva's face (mukha). Most remote of the five — 20 km trek through alpine meadows from Sagar village. Wildflowers carpet the trail June–July.
Madhyamaheshwar
Shiva's navel and chest. 24 km trek from Ransi village. Exceptional views of Kedarnath and Chaukhamba peaks.
Kalpeshwar
Shiva's matted hair (jata). The only Pancha Kedar accessible year-round. 2 km walk from Urgam valley. Hidden inside a natural cave.
Planning Tips
- ✦Best time: May to June, mid-September to October
- ✦Duration: 10–14 days (requires moderate trekking fitness) for the full circuit. Budget extra time for mountain circuits as weather can disrupt plans.
- ✦Book accommodation and transport well in advance for major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Shravan and Navratri.
- ✦For Himalayan circuits, carry warm clothing year-round — temperatures drop sharply after sunset.
Other Pilgrimage Circuits
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does the Pancha Kedar take?▾
The Pancha Kedar typically takes 10–14 days (requires moderate trekking fitness). This can vary depending on your starting city, mode of transport, and how much time you spend at each stop. Plan extra days as a buffer for weather and crowd conditions.
What is the best time to visit for the Pancha Kedar?▾
The best season for the Pancha Kedar is May to June, mid-September to October. Avoid peak festival periods if you prefer quieter darshan.
How do I plan the Pancha Kedar?▾
Start by booking accommodation at the first stop, then work stop by stop. Book train/bus connections between cities in advance. Carry a copy of this guide, valid ID, and comfortable walking shoes.
Which is the most important stop on the Pancha Kedar?▾
All 5 stops are considered equally sacred as part of the complete circuit. However, Kedarnath is typically the first stop and sets the spiritual tone for the yatra.