Shri Rudranath Temple

Shri Rudranath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is located in Uttarakhand Chamoli district. Among the Panch Kedar (Five Kedar), Rudranath is the fourth temple. Rudranath is the toughest Kedar, as its 19 km trek from Sagar Village to Rudranath is considered the most difficult of all. The trail is surrounded by lush green forests, sprawling meadows, and diverse wildlife.
 

The temple itself is surrounded by Rhododendron forest with majestic views of the popular Himalayan peaks in its backdrop like Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghunti, Hathi Parvat, Devasthan and Trishul Parvat. Every year on the full moon day in the Sawan (usually coincides with Raksha Bandhan), villagers organised a fair at the temple. Temple is frequented by a number of adventure enthusiasts and devotees to seek blessings Lord Shiva.
 

Rudranath Trek-The Toughest Kedar

Among all the Panch Kedar treks, Rudranath Trek is considered the most difficult one. Located around 270 km from Dehradun, Sagar Village serves the last motorable points. Usually, the Rudranath journey starts from Sagar village, four additional routes from nearby villages have been added from this year are Gangol Gaon, Siroli, Gwar, and Kunjon-Maikot.
 

Each routes offer a unique experience of village life, its serenity, and a peaceful ambience. Its rugged terrain passes through villages, dense forest, mountains, rivers and rocky paths. Throughout the trail, the scenic view of the surrounding landscapes provides continuous motivation.
 

The journey to Rudranath Temple will test both physical endurance and mental strength. There is a popular saying near the area, "German Ki Ladai and Rudranath ki Chadai ek saman hai" (Germany war and Rudranath climb are equally challenging). Prior trekking experience and a local travel guide is a must for all undertaking Rudranath Trek. 
 

Fourth Kedar

Perched at an height of over 11,800 feet, this celestial place is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the sacred Panch Kedar Yatra, Rudranath is the fourth Kedar in the circuit. Panch Kedar Yatra begins from Kedarnath Temple, followed by Madmadheshwar, then Tungnath, and at last ends with Kalpeshwar Temple. According to legend, the temple dates back to Dwapar Yuga and was discovered by the revered guru Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th Century.
 

Among various, the sacred Rudra Ganga, also known as the 'River of Salvation" is the major attraction. Offering forefathers pind (ancestral rites) here is considered auspicious. Near the temple, one can also finds various holy kunds such as Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, Tara Kund, and Mana Kund.
 

Winter Seat

The portal of Rudranath Temple remains open only for six months, from May to October. During winter, the temple closes, and the idol of Lord Shiva is brought to its winter seat at Gopinath Temple in Gopeshwar. Before proceeding this ritual, the locals worshipped the Vandevi, popularly known as the forest goddess who always protects the area.
 

Registration for Rudranath Temple

Like the Char Dham Yatra, the registration for Rudranath Yatra is mandatory. It can be done online from the official website of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Additionally, registration can also be done offline at registration centers in the respective base villages. Visitors must keep their Aadhaar Card and mobile number for registration.
 

Rudranath Temple Entry Fee

The Kedarnath Wildlife Division has earmarked an entry fee for Rudranath Temple, which are required to paid by all. The fee will be submitted during registration, which are : -

Accommodation

Accommodation near the temple is limited which is offered by the Temple committee. A few homestays are also available near the temple. Meanwhile, trekkers can also set up their own tent near the site. Additionally, staying options are also available at Sagar, Urgam, Panar and Lyuti Bugyal which are en-route to Rudranath temple.
 

History

After defeating Kauravas in the battle of Kurukshetra, the Pandavas are distressed due to fratricide and brahma killing. Seeking remorse of conscience they sought refuge in Lord Shiva. However, Shiva is not happy with Pandavas for what they have done in the Kurukshetra battle. In search of Shiva, when Pandavas reach Guptkashi, the displeased Shiva tried to disguise them and took the form of a bull so he couldn't be recognized. After searching for a while, Bhim saw a bull grazing nearby and eventually recognized Shiva in the form of a bull. As soon as Bhim tried to catch the leg and tail of the bull, Shiva in the form of a bull disappeared into the earth.
 

After disappearing, Shiva in his actual form appeared in five body parts at five different places; his waist in Kedarnath, hands in Tungnath, face in Rudranath, navel in Madmaheshwar, and hair in Kalpeshwar. Witnessing this divine form of Lord shiva, the Pandavas bowed down and asked for forgiveness for their sins. Thereafter, the Pandavas worshiped Shiva in all five places where he appeared and built the temple of five limbs of Shiva at these places, which are now collectively known as Panch Kedar.
 

Important Tips for Travellers

• Registration is mandatory before the journey.
• Visitors must start their trek from the village chose during registration.
• Book accommodation in advance, as they are in limited.
• Avoid visiting during monsoon season.
• Always carry essential items; such as waterproof trekking shoes, Raincoat, Water Bottle, Cash, Emergency Light, Woolens, Power Bank, and Tent.
• Mobile network connectivity is unavailable for the most of the route.
• The trek route is challenging, so prior trekking experience and a local guide are mandatory.
• Check weather conditions before embarking the journey.
• Follow the instructions shared by the tour guide and authorities.
• Always stay on marked trekking paths.
• Avoid littering in the open area.
• Do not dispose of cigarettes, sanitary pads, and bottles in bio toilets.
• If anyone found violating any rules will be fined up to Rs 1,00,000/- or will be imprisoned up to 3 years.
• Possession or consumption of alcohol or any other narcotic substance is strictly prohibited.
• Now trekkers are allowed to begin their trek after 2:00 pm.

Nearby Attraction

Visitors can explore some other notable place; such as : -

• Nandi Kund.
• Anusuya Devi Temple.
• Sagar Village.
• Panar Bugyal.
• Lyuti Bugyal.