Discover Urgam Valley in Uttarakhand: Trek to Kalpeshwar Kedar Temple

Urgam Village is nestled in the beautiful Urgam Valley near Joshimath, in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. It sits at an altitude of about 2100 meters surrounded by the majestic Garhwal Himalayas. The village is a peaceful retreat, surrounded by dense forests, farms, and apple orchards.

A notable attraction nearby is the ancient Kalpeshwar Temple, part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage sites, located just 2 kilometers from Urgam Village.

Kalpeshwar Kedar

Kalpeshwar is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated at an altitude of approximately 2,200 meters in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is the fifth temple in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, which also includes Kedarnath, Madhmaheshwar, Tungnath, and Rudranath.

Unlike the other four temples that close for the winter season shortly after Diwali, Kalpeshwar remains open throughout the year. This makes it a unique pilgrimage site where devotees can visit and worship Lord Shiva at any time of the year.

Trek to Kalpeshwar Kedar

The trek to Kalpeshwar from Lyari is just 2 km, while from Devgram it’s less than 500 m and straightforward through scenic Urgam Valley. Most of the path is paved with minimal uphill. Follow the village’s end to a curve leading down to the river. Cross the bridge left of the waterfall for Kalpeshwar Kedar, nestled discreetly among rocks.

Places to see in Urgam Valley

Exploring Urgam Valley is a must for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a serene getaway.  It lies amidst the Garhwal Himalayas, the valley not only houses Urgam Village but also several other picturesque villages. It’s a perfect retreat into nature and the towering Himalayan peaks providing a breathtaking backdrop.

In essence, exploring Urgam Valley offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a chance to witness sustainable living amidst the splendor of the Himalayas.

Urgam  Village

Urgam  is culturally vibrant with its local folk art, folk dances, and traditional fairs. Among the notable festivals are the eleven-day Shiva Parvati Vivah, Bansinarayan Mela, Shivratri Mela, Fulanarayan Mela, Nandastami Mela, and Mukhota Dance. These celebrations feature traditional songs and dances like Chanchdi, Dakudi, and Jhumelo, adding to the cultural richness of the area.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options in Urgam Village include a few homestays and hotels, providing a cozy stay experience. Additionally, camping is also a popular choice for visitors looking to immerse themselves fully in the tranquil beauty of Urgam and its surroundings.