Shri Rudranath Temple, Uttarakhand

Shri Rudranath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in the Uttarakhand Chamoli district. Among the Panch Kedar (Five Kedar), Rudranath is the fourth Kedar and is considered the toughest Kedar to reach. The 19 km trek from Sagar Village to Rudranath Temple is considered the most challenging of all the Panch Kedar. Its trekking trail passes through lush green forests, sprawling meadows, rugged mountain terrain and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for trekking and adventure enthusiasts.
 

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 coinciding with Raksha Bandhan), villagers organised a fair at the temple. To seek the blessing of Lord Shiva, several adventure enthusiasts and devotees visit Rudranath Temple every year.

Rudranath Trek- The Toughest Panch Kedar Trek

Among all Panch Kedar treks, the Rudranath Trek is considered the most difficult one. Located around 270 km from Dehradun, its base camp, i.e. Sagar Village, serves as the last motorable point. Usually, the Rudranath journey starts from Sagar village, but recently, four additional trekking routes have been added from this year, which are:

• Gangol Gaon
• Siroli
• Gwar
• and Kunjon-Maikot. 

Each route offers 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 in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, 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" (German war and Rudranath climb are equally challenging). Prior trekking experience and a local travel guide are a must for all undertaking the Rudranath Trek.

Rudranath the Fourth Kedar

Kedarnath Temple, followed by Madhyamaheshwar, then Tungnath, and ends with Kalpeshwar Temple. According to legend, the temple dates back to the Dwapar Yuga and was discovered by the revered guru Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th Century.
 

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

Winter Seat of Rudranath Temple

The portal of Panch Kedar 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 with this ritual, the locals worshipped the Vandevi, popularly known as the forest goddess who always protects the area.

Rudranath Temple Trek Registration

Like the Char Dham Yatra, registration for the 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 centres 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 the Rudranath Temple. The fee will be submitted during registration, which is: -

Rudranath Temple Opening and Closing Date 2026

Similar to the last year, the Rudranath Temple portal opens for the devotees on May 18, 2026, at 12:58 PM. Similar to Tungnath and Kedarnath, Panch Kedar also remain open for six months a year. Once the portal is closed, the idol of Lord Rudranath is ceremoniously brought to Gopinath Temple. Along with other shrines, the BKTC committee also announced the closing date of the Rudranath Temple. Last year, the Rudranath Temple closed for the devotees on October 17, 2025, at 5:00 AM. However, the closing date of 2026 is yet to be announced.

Accommodation Near Rudranath Temple

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, stay options are also available at Sagar, Urgam, Panar and Lyuti Bugyal, which are en route to the Rudranath temple.

History of Rudranath Temple

After defeating the Kauravas in the battle of Kurukshetra, the Pandavas are distressed due to fratricide and Brahma's killing. Seeking remorse of conscience, they sought refuge in Lord Shiva. However, Shiva is not happy with the Pandavas for what they have done in the Kurukshetra battle. In search of Shiva, when the Pandavas reach Guptkashi, the displeased Shiva tried to disguise them and took the form of a bull so he couldn't be recognised. After searching for a while, Bhim saw a bull grazing nearby and eventually recognised 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 worshipped Shiva in all five places where he appeared and built the temple of the five limbs of Shiva at these places, which are now collectively known as Panch Kedar.

Important Travel Tips for Rudranath Trek

• Registration is mandatory before the journey.
• Visitors must start their trek from the village chosen during registration.
• To avoid any last-minute rush, book accommodation in advance.
• Avoid visiting during the monsoon season.
• Always carry essential items, such as waterproof trekking shoes, a Raincoat, a Water Bottle, Cash, an Emergency Light, woollens, a Power Bank, and a Tent.
• Mobile network connectivity is unavailable for most of the route.
• The trek route is challenging, so prior trekking experience and a local guide are mandatory.
• Check weather conditions before embarking on 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.
• Anyone found violating any rules will be fined up to Rs 1,00,000/- or will be imprisoned for 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 places, such as: -

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