Kartik Swami Temple

Dedicated to Lord Kartik, the Kartik Swami temple is located in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. Situated approximately 187 km away from Dehradun, the temple remains open round the year, attracting a multitude of devotees. In the southern part of India, Lord Kartik is known as Lord Murugua or Lord Murugan, which is why this place attracts many devotees from South India as well. Located on Kronch Parvat, visitors must trek a distance of 3 km to reach the Kartik Swami temple, enjoying nature's beauty and rhododendron trees along the way.

The trek starts from Kanak Chauri village and ends with 80 steps leading to the temple. The panoramic view of the Himalayas and Chaukhamba mountains is so enthralling that it can easily mesmerize the pilgrims. 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.

Every year, a two day fair is organised by the temple committee on the auspicious day of Kartik Purnima. Additionally, the Kalash Yatra, which takes place in May or June, is highly recognized. During this event, a 11 days Mahayagya is performed, and on the 10th day, people collect water from a source located near the temple for Kartikey consecration. This water source is special because it does not produce water throughout the year, but during these days, a stream of water flows automatically. As per the mythologist it is believed that on Baikunth Chaturdashi, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati come to meet Lord Kartik.

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 issue, Lord Shiva proposed that whoever circled the seven rounds of Universe and arrived first would be considered the superior. Hearing this, Lord Kartikey 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 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.

Today, a number of pilgrims from far and wide visit the temple, to seek blessing and offer prayer to Lord Murugan. Ample home-stay facilities are available near the Kanakchauri village, providing basic amenities. Pilgrims can experience a wholesome experience of sunrise and sunset on a clearer day, which adds up the scenic and spiritual journey. The best time for one to visit the temple is considered from October to June.