Dedicated to Lord Kartik, the Kartik Swami temple is located in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. Perched at an altitude of more than 10,000 feet, the temple is situated on Kraunch Parvat. It offers a majestic view of the surroundings, which is beyond anyone's imagination. Devotees and adventure enthusiasts often visit this temple to witness the epic sunrise and sunset, which are hard to experience anywhere. Surrounded by a valley and situated on a narrow ridge, the path to the Temple is breathtaking, and looking down on either side will surely give you
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Dedicated to Lord Kartik, the Kartik Swami temple is located in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. Perched at an altitude of more than 10,000 feet, the temple is situated on Kraunch Parvat. It offers a majestic view of the surroundings, which is beyond anyone's imagination. Devotees and adventure enthusiasts often visit this temple to witness the epic sunrise and sunset, which are hard to experience anywhere.
Surrounded by a valley and situated on a narrow ridge, the path to the Temple is breathtaking, and looking down on either side will surely give you goosebumps. It is believed that by offering a bell, Lord Kartikeya fulfils devotees' wishes, which is why many bells can be found around the temple. Pilgrims can witness a blissful experience, as the entire temple echoes with the tolling bells and hymns during morning and evening prayers.
Lord Murugan
Dedicated to the elder son of Lord Shiva, Kartikeya is also known as "Murugan". He is the revered deity in South India, which is why various devotees, especially Tamilian, visit this temple.
Being located at such a great height, the surrounding peaks of the Himalayas look small, giving devotees a surreal feeling that they are above the mountains. The panoramic view of the Himalayas and Chaukhamba mountains is so appealing that leaves its visitors in awe. The temple is nothing less than a paradise, attracting various pilgrims. Various devotees often visit this temple to seek blessings of Lord Kartikeya and enjoy the ethereal view of the Himalayas.
Apart from its religious significance, the temple is also known for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views, bird watching, Himalayan Peaks, and popular state bird Monal. Visitors must trek a distance of 3 km to reach the temple, enjoying nature's beauty and rhododendron trees along the way. The trek begins at Kanak Chauri village and ends with 80 steps leading to the temple.
Kalash Yatra
Every year in May or June, a Kalash Yatra is organised by the temple committee, with the help of villagers. During this event, a 11 days Mahayagya is performed by the temple priest. On the 10th day of Mahayagya, devotees collect water from a source located near the temple for Kartikeya consecration. The water collected from this source is special, as it does not produce water throughout the year, but a stream of water flows automatically during these days, which is nothing more than a marvel divine. As per the mythologist, it is believed that on Baikunth Chaturdashi, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati come to meet Lord Kartik.
Fair
On the auspicious day of Kartik Purnima, a two day fair is organised by the temple committee. Many villagers and devotees eagerly await for this day to experience the village fair and its unique charm. A distinct sense of charm and happiness can be seen among the people during these two days.
Mythology
Temples encompass the history of thousands of years and are extremely fascinating. It is said that one day there was a dispute between Kartikeya and Ganesha about who is superior, and they started arguing over this. To resolve the matter, Lord Shiva proposed a challenge that whoever circled the seven rounds of Universe and arrived first would be considered the superior. Hearing this, Lord Kartikeya mounted his peacock and started circling the Universe. However, on the other hand, Ganesha, mounted on his mouse, started circling Lord Shiva and Parvati and after completing the seven rounds stood before him.
Astonished, Lord Shiva asked Ganesha for an explanation. In response, Ganesha humbly replied, they both were his entire world and universe, and there is no world beyond them. After hearing this, Shiva and Parvati smiled and declared Ganesha the greatest. Shiva added that from this day onwards, Ganesha would be worshipped first before any other deity, otherwise their prayer won't be accepted. Kartikeya was furious when he learned this, he removed all the flesh from his body and offered it to Lord Shiva, and then in the skeletal form, arrived at this Kronch Parvat, where he is worshipped today. Every year, a number of pilgrims from far and wide visit the temple, to seek blessing and offer prayer to Lord Murugan.
Popular places
There are several places that are popular and can be visited by traveller near Kartik Swami Temple : -
- Tungnath : - It is the highest Shiva temple in the world and the third Kedar of Panch Kedar. Located just below the Chandrashila peak, this temple is linked to Pandavas.
- Chopta : - A small hamlet surrounded with expansive lush green meadows, serve as the base camp of the renowned Tungnath Trek. From here, various popular peaks like Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Nanda Devi can be witnessed.
- Chandrashila Trek : - Located above Tungnath, this is the most popular trek among adventure enthusiasts. Its 1.5 km height from Tungnath Temple is the most difficult and challenging part to climb.
- Ukhimath : - Primarily known for its Omkareshwar Temple, which is the winter seat of Kedarnath along with Madmaheshwar Temple. Visitors come here to pay obeisance to Lord Shiva.
Accommodation Facility
Visitors will not have any difficulty finding accommodation, as various guesthouses, resorts, and homestays are available in Kanakchauri. It is the starting point of the trek to Kartik Swami Temple, so it is recommended to book your stays nearby.
Things To Do
| Trekking | Temple requires a 3 km trek, which is a must for all devotees. Its difficulty level is moderate yet challenging. |
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| Bird Watching | The trek passes through a dense jungle, which is a home to various bird species, including golden eagle and monal. Monal is the national bird of Nepal and State Bird of Uttarakhand that are mostly found in high altitude areas. |
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| Village Life | Visitors can explore Kanakchauri village, to experience local village life closely. |
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| Mountains Peak | Various renowned mountain peaks such as Chaukhamba, Dronagiri, Neelkanth, Nanda Devi, Sumeru Parvat, and Trishul can be sighted from the temple. |
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| Sunrise and Sunset | Perched at a gigantic altitude, the temple offers a breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. |
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Entry Fee
Since 2024, the authorities have started charging tourists visiting the Kartik Swami Temple. As the temple is located within a dense reserve forest, and is an ancient site, the charges are being implemented by the forest department. The entry fee for Kartik Swami Temple is : -
- Local Villagers and nearby Panchayat people : No Fee
- Tourist from Rudraprayag and Pokhari Block : Rs 10/-
- General Tourist (Indians) Rs 50/-
- Foreign Tourist Rs 100/-
- Additionally, tourists and content creators need to pay an additional charge of Rs 200/- for cameras and Rs 500/- for drones. However, the charges shared here are subject to change.
Food Guide
Visitors must try local cuisine that they never taste it before; which includes : -
- Kafuli.
- Phanu.
- Mandua ki Roti.
- Jhangora ki Kheer.
- Kandalee Ka Saag.
- Bhang ki Chutney (Cannabis)
- Gahat ki Daal, and
- Arsa, a popular dessert in Uttarakhand region.
Important Tips for Travellers
To access the location without any issue, visitors must follow the steps mentioned below : -
- For a comfortable journey, visitors must book a taxi to access the location.
- If travelling by shared taxi, confirm the drop off location.
- Only one direct bus service is available from Dehradun, taking around 10 to 11 hours.
- During the wedding season, finding shared taxis from Karnaprayag or Rudraprayag can be difficult.
- Availability of Petrol Pump beyond Karnaprayag is limited, so it is recommended to refill the tank near Karnaprayag.
- Carry enough cash, as ATM facilities and mobile networks are limited in the area.
- Avoid travelling during monsoon, as heavy rain causes many challenges.
- It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during Kalash Yatra and Kartik Purnima Fair.
- Carry enough woolen clothes, as temperature remains cool throughout the year.
- To witness the sunrise, one needs to start trek early, in the presence of an expert guide.
- Carry essential items like flashlight (Torch), trekking stick, water bottles, and raincoat.
- Start your trek after sunrise, as its trek route is surrounded by dense forest, home to various wild species.
- Before commencing the trek, ensure whether the Leopard or other wild animals have been sighted in the jungle.
- Prasad Shops are available at Kanakchauri market.
- Keep your necessary items in bags because you may encounter monkeys and langurs.
- Overnight stays are not available at the temple premises, it is recommended to return to your hotel before dusk.
- Ample space is available outside the temple to rack your shoes.
- Mule and porters services are not available to climb to the temple.
- Always wear comfortable shoes and avoid carrying heavy baggage during the trek.
- Carry emergency medicines, as medical shops are limited in the area.
- Avoid making loud noise during the trek.
Nearby Attraction
The area is surrounded by several major attractions that are usually visited by travellers during their journey, including : -
