Rudraprayag Sangam: Confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini
Rudraprayag Sangam is one of the most sacred river confluences in Uttarakhand, where the holy Alaknanda River, flowing from Badrinath, meets the Mandakini River, which originates from Kedarnath. This divine meeting point lies in the heart of Rudraprayag, a spiritually charged town nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas.
It is the second of the Panch Prayags, making it an essential stop for pilgrims, nature lovers, and travelers exploring the Char Dham region.
Rudraprayag Town: Where Nature Meets Spirituality
Rudraprayag is a serene Himalayan town surrounded by lofty mountains, sacred rivers, and ancient temples. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva appeared here in his fierce form as Rudra, and the town derives its name from him.
Rudraprayag serves as:
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A key pilgrimage halt on the route to Kedarnath and Badrinath
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A base for treks like Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila
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Overview: Rudraprayag Sangam
The Rudraprayag Sangam is the sacred confluence (Prayag) of:
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Alaknanda River (from Badrinath)
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Mandakini River (from Kedarnath)
In Hindu belief, taking a holy dip here is said to wash away sins and purify the soul. The visual contrast of the two rivers merging—often described as two sisters embracing—creates a mesmerizing and spiritual sight.
Rudraprayag Sangam River Name
Which Rivers Meet at Rudraprayag?
The Rudraprayag Sangam river name refers to:
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Alaknanda
These two sacred rivers unite at Rudraprayag and continue their journey toward Devprayag, where Alaknanda later merges with Bhagirathi to form the Ganga.
Rudraprayag Sangam History & Mythology
According to legends:
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Lord Shiva performed the Tandav dance at Rudraprayag
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Sage Narada meditated here on one leg, pleasing Lord Shiva, who appeared as Rudra
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Goddess Sati was reborn as Parvati and performed intense penance in the Himalayan region to reunite with Shiva
Rudraprayag is also symbolically known as the meeting point of Lord Badri (Badrinath) and Lord Kedar (Kedarnath), represented by their rivers.
Rudraprayag Sangam View Point – Suvidha Nagar
The most popular viewpoint of the confluence is located at Suvidha Nagar, Rudraprayag.
Here you’ll find:
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Well-maintained walkways
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Seating areas
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Safe viewing platforms
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Stunning photo opportunities of the Sangam
This viewpoint is ideal for both pilgrims and tourists who want to quietly observe the sacred rivers against a Himalayan backdrop.
Climate at Rudraprayag Sangam
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Summer: Pleasant, up to 34°C
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Monsoon (June–Sept): Heavy rainfall, lush greenery, occasional landslides
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Winter: Cold, temperatures can drop to 0°C
Due to its altitude variation (800–8,000 m in district), weather changes quickly—carry layers year-round.
Must-Visit Places Near Rudraprayag Sangam
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Koteshwar Mahadev Temple (3 km)
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Agatsyamuni (19 km)
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Guptkashi (39 km)
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Ukhimath (40 km)
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Gaurikund – Kedarnath trek base (72 km)
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Son Prayag
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Trijuginarayan
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Chopta & Tungnath
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Kedarnath
Suggested Read: Panch Prayag Uttarakhand: Sangam Names, Tour Package & Yatra
Distances from Rudraprayag (Key Routes)
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Rudraprayag to Karnaprayag distance: ~33 km
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Karnaprayag to Rudraprayag distance: ~33 km
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Rudraprayag Sangam to Rishikesh distance: ~140 km
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Distance between Rudraprayag to Badrinath: ~160 km
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Rudraprayag to Gangotri distance: ~225 km
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Rudraprayag to Uttarkashi distance: ~190 km
All routes offer scenic Himalayan drives along rivers and valleys.
How to Reach Rudraprayag Sangam
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By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~159 km)
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By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (~142 km)
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By Road: Well connected via NH-7 to Rishikesh, Srinagar, Karnaprayag, and Joshimath
Conclusion
Rudraprayag Sangam, the sacred confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini, is a place where spiritual power, mythology, and Himalayan beauty come together seamlessly. Whether you are a pilgrim on the Char Dham Yatra, a trekker heading to Chopta or Kedarnath, or a traveler seeking peace by sacred rivers, Rudraprayag offers a deeply enriching experience.
A visit here is not just sightseeing—it is a moment of reflection at one of Uttarakhand’s most powerful spiritual landscapes. 🌊🕉️🏔️
