Panch Kedar Trek: Discover Distance& Trek Itinerary (Guide 2026)

The Panch Kedar Trek is one of the most sacred and adventurous pilgrimages in Uttarakhand, combining devotion to Lord Shiva with high-altitude Himalayan trekking. This journey covers five ancient Shiva temples hidden deep in the Garhwal Himalayas, each representing a different part of Lord Shiva’s body.

Duration: 10 Nights / 11 Days
Best Time: May–June & September–October
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (mix of road travel and treks)

Panch Kedar Names (Panch Kedar Temples)

The five sacred temples collectively known as Panch Kedar Uttarakhand are:

1. Kedarnath Temple – Hump (Back)

2. Madhyamaheshwar Temple – Navel

3. Tungnath Temple – Arms

4. Rudranath Temple – Face

5. Kalpeshwar Temple – Hair (Jata)

Day-by-Day Panch Kedar Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Rishikesh – Sonprayag (210 km / 8 hrs)

Arrival at Rishikesh. Scenic drive through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi to Sonprayag.
Overnight: Sonprayag

Kedarnath (Panch Kedar Trek)

Day 2: Sonprayag – Kedarnath

Early morning drive to Gaurikund, then 16 km trek to Kedarnath Temple. Darshan of the first Kedar.
Overnight: Near Kedarnath Temple

Day 3: Kedarnath – Sonprayag

Morning darshan (optional), then trek back to Gaurikund and drive to Sonprayag.
Overnight: Sonprayag

Day 4: Sonprayag – Ukhimath

Drive to Ukhimath. En route sightseeing:

• • Triyuginarayan Temple

  • Guptkashi

  • Kalimath

Omkareshwar Temple
Overnight: Ukhimath

Madhyamaheshwar (Panch Kedar Trek)

Day 5: Ukhimath – Madhyamaheshwar

Drive to Bantoli/Ransi village. Start 8 km trek to Madhyamaheshwar Temple.
Darshan and spiritual evening in the Himalayas.
Overnight: Dharamshala near temple

Day 6: Madhyamaheshwar – Chopta

Trek back to Bantoli (8 km), then drive to Chopta.
Overnight: Chopta

Tungnath (Panch Kedar Trek)

Day 7: Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila

Short but steep 3.5 km trek to Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world. Optional trek to Chandrashila peak.
Return to Chopta.
Overnight: Chopta

Rudranath (Panch Kedar Trek)

Rudranath Temple Uttarakhand

Day 8: Chopta – Mandal – Rudranath

Drive to Mandal. Trek via Pun Bugyal & Panar Bugyal (approx. 15 km).
Darshan at Rudranath Temple, the only place where Shiva’s face is worshipped.
Overnight: Temple accommodation (basic)

Day 9: Rudranath – Mandal – Pipalkoti

Trek back to Mandal and drive to Pipalkoti.
Overnight: Pipalkoti

Kalpeshwar (Panch Kedar Trek)

Day 10: Pipalkoti – Kalpeshwar – Pipalkoti

Drive to Urgam Valley. Short 300 m walk to Kalpeshwar Temple, the only Panch Kedar shrine open all year.
Return to Pipalkoti.
Overnight: Pipalkoti

Day 11: Pipalkoti – Rishikesh (215 km)

Final scenic drive back to Rishikesh.
Tour Ends with Spiritual Fulfillment

Why Choose the Panch Kedar Trek?

• • Complete Panch Kedar Uttarakhand pilgrimage in one journey

  • Combination of trekking, spirituality & Himalayan culture

  • Ancient temples hidden in bugyals, forests, and remote valleys

  • Ideal for both Shiva devotees and adventure seekers

FAQ – Panch Kedar Trek & Kedarnath Trek (2025–2026)

❓ Is Kedarkantha Trek Easy?

Yes, Kedarkantha trek is considered easy to moderate. It is one of the best beginner-friendly Himalayan treks, suitable for first-time trekkers with basic fitness. The trail is well-marked and popular, especially in winter.

❓ Is Kedarkantha Trek Safe?

Yes, Kedarkantha trek is safe when done with a registered trekking operator or experienced guide. Safety depends on weather conditions, proper gear, and following trek guidelines. Winter treks require extra care due to snow.

❓ Is Kedarkantha Trek Difficult?

The trek is not very difficult, but it does involve continuous ascents and cold weather. For fit beginners and regular walkers, Kedarkantha is manageable with proper preparation.

❓ Is Kedarkantha Trek Open Now?

Kedarkantha trek is generally open from October to April. However, opening depends on weather, snowfall, and forest department permissions. Always check current conditions before planning.

❓ Can We Trek Kedarnath at Night?

❌ No, night trekking to Kedarnath is strictly not allowed.
The Kedarnath trek is permitted only during daylight hours for safety reasons. Authorities usually restrict movement after evening due to weather changes and wildlife risks.

❓ How Many KM Trek to Kedarnath?

The Kedarnath trek distance is approximately 16 km, starting from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple. Pilgrims can trek on foot or use ponies, palanquins, or helicopter services.

❓ What Are the Panch Kedar?

Panch Kedar refers to five sacred Lord Shiva temples in Uttarakhand, believed to be associated with the Pandavas after the Mahabharata war.

❓ What Is Panch Kedar?

Panch Kedar is a holy pilgrimage circuit in the Garhwal Himalayas, where different parts of Lord Shiva are worshipped at five temples. It combines spiritual significance with high-altitude trekking.

🛕 Panch Kedar Temples Are:

1. Kedarnath – Back (Hump) of Lord Shiva

2. Madhyamaheshwar – Navel

3. Tungnath – Arms

4. Rudranath – Face

5. Kalpeshwar – Hair (Jata)

Final Thoughts

The Panch Kedar Trek (2025–2026) is not just a pilgrimage—it’s a transformational journey through some of the most sacred and untouched landscapes of the Himalayas. Walking the same paths once taken by the Pandavas, chanting Shiva’s name amid glaciers and meadows, is an experience that stays with you for life.

If you’re seeking devotion, adventure, and inner awakening, the Panch Kedar Yatra is truly unmatched.