Kedarnath, Uttarakhand India

Kedarnath, Uttarakhand India

Kedarnath is the seat of Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve "Jyotirlingas" of Lord Shiva. Lying at an altitude of 3584 m at the head of river Mandakini, the shrine of Kedarnath is amongst the holiest pilgrimage for the Hindus. It is no wonder that Adi Guru Shankaracharya - a great scholar & saint, chose to enshrine Lord Shiva in this land, where the unholy becomes oly and the holy becomes holier. Kedar meaning powerful is another name of Lord Shiva the protector and the destroyer.
Situated in the backdrop of the majestic Sri Kedarnath range, Kedarnath is a 14 km trek from Gaurikund.
At Kedarnath there are several Kunds (pools, tanks) that are known for their religious significans - shivkund, Retkund, hanskund, Udakkund, Rudhirkund are the most important. A little away from Kedarnath is a temple dedicated to Bhaironathji who is ceremoniously worshipped at the opening & closing of Kedarnath. The belief is that Bhairavnathji protects this land from evil during the time when temple of Kedarnath is closed. There are more than 200 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in Chamoli district itself, the most important one is Sri Kedarnath.
During the winters, the shrine is submerged in snow & hence is closed. Fortunate are those who have good weather, but twice blessed are those who are at Kedarnath on a moonlit night- the snow peak gleams like hundred silver pinnacles atop the glittering mountains.
The holiest of Shiva's shrines is linked to Gold among base metals so that every pilgrims finds peace here, and it is said that devotees who die here become one with Shiva himself. Beyond the temple is the highway to heaven, called Mahapanth.

Kedarnath Temple Guide

The opening of date of Kedarnath Temple is fixed and depends on the Shiva Ratri and decided by priests in Ukhimath. Normally Kedarnath temple opens on Mid May. The closing date of Kedarnath is fixed on Yama Dwitiya (second day after Diwali, November).
Kedarnath Temple is open for devotees from 6 am to 2 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm.
Shingar Darshan is from 5 pm onwards and Aarti is performed at 6:45 pm. Sharavani Annakoot Mela is celebrated on the day before Raksha Bandhan during August. Special Samadhi puja is help on the closing day of Kedarnath.
The Kedarnath Temple committee office organises booking for special pooja which is performed before the general darshan in the morning.

Places to visit in and around Kedarnath

Shandaracharya Samadhi

The Samadhi of Adi Guru Shankaracharya is located just behind the Kedarnath temple. It is said that after establishing four sacred Dhams in India, he went into his samadhi at an early age of 32 years.

Chorbari (Gandhi Sarovar)

Only 1 km trek away from Kedarnath. Floating - ice on the crstal clear waters of the lake fascinates the visitors.

Vasuki Tal

Situated at a height of 4,150mt, the lake is surrounded by high mountains and offers an excellent view of Chaukhamba peaks.

Gaurikund

It is the base for a trek to Kedarnath and serves as a roadhead. The village has a temple dedicated to Gauri and hot water springs.

Trijuginarayan

According to legend,this was the place where the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati was solemnised. In front of the Shiva Temple.

Ukhimath

Winter home of the deity at Kedarnath temple and the seat of the rawal of Kedarnath.Cinnected by bus services to Rudraprayag and other major centers.

Panch Kedar

Madmaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath and Kalpnath with Kedarnath form the Panch Kedar, the five most important temples of Lord Shiva in Garhwal Himalayas.

Madmaheshwar

One of Panch Kedars, the temple of Madmaheshwar is located at an altitude of 3,289 mt above sea-level, on the slope of a ridge, 25 km north-east of Guptkashi. There is a motorable road from Guptashi to Kalimath.
The best statue of Har Gauri in India measuring over a metre high is found in the kali temple. The trek from Kalimath to Madmaheshwar is distinguished by wild unparalleled scenic beauty and engulfed by Chaukhamba, Kedarnath and Neelkanth peaks. Gaundar at the confluence of Madmeshwar Ganga and Markanga Ganga, is the last settlement before one reaches Madmaheshwar, the place where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of belly.

Tungnath

The arms of Lord Shiva came out as per the Kedarnath myth at Tungnath. He is worshipped here as one of the Panch Kedars. Tungnath Temple at an altitude of 3,680mt is the highest Shiva shrine among the Panch kedars but the easiest to reach from Chopta, the nearest roadhead.

Rudranath

The face of Lord Shiva is worshipped at the Rudranath temple, at an elevation of 2,286 mt above sea-level and is 23 km from Gopeshwar. 5 km of the has to be trekked. The trek passes through wild orchards and picturesque bugyals and involves trekking over high ridges (some times 4,000 mt). The temple site provides magnificent views of Hathi Parvat, Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghungti, Trishuli and many other peaks. There are a number of holy Kund near Rudranath temple namely - Suryakund, Chandrakund, Tarakund etc. The entire area is utterly enchanting and unmatched in scenic beauty.
Anusuya Devi temple is located on the trek to Rudranath involving an additional trek of 3 km.

Kalpeshwar

The more hardy to tourist may like to trek about 35 km to Kalpeshwar, where the locks (hair) with head, of Lord Shiva are worshipped. Located in Urgam Valley at an altitude of 2,134 mt above sea-level, the temple is a further 10 k m trek from Rudranath to Helong, the motor head on Rishikesh- Badrinath route.

Deoria Tal

At an altitude of 2,440 mt, the beautiful lake of Deoria Tal is located on the Chopta - Ukhimath motor road about 3 km away from Sari. Another trek is from Ukhimath.
In the early morning, the snow Kedarnath are clearly refected on the lake waters. The lake also provides an excellent venue for angling, as well as birdwatching.

The best time to visit Kedarnath is between May-October.

CLIMATE
Summer: Cool during the day and cold at night.
Winter: Snow-bound. Touching sub-zero.

Average Temperature in Badrinath
Month	Max Temp.	Min Temp
Apr	3 °C	0 °C
May	5 °C	0 °C
Jun	14.5 °C	5.9 °C
Jul	18.2 °C	10
Aug	18 °C	10.5
Sep	16 °C	8.5
Oct	12.5 °C	5.6 °C
Nov	5 °C	0 °C
Dec-Mar	Covered with snow

CLOTHING
Summer: Light Woollens.
Winter: Very Heavy Woollens.

How to reach Kedarnath

Kedarnath is well connected through road. The National Highway (NH 58, total length 538 km) from Delhi to Mana is accessible throughout the year.

Air: Jolly grant (Dehradun)-239 km away from Kedarnath of which 225 km is by road and rest 14 km is on foot.
Rail: Railhead at Rishikesh, 221 km away of which 207 km is by road and the rest 14 km is on foot.
Railhead at Kotdwara, 250 km away, of which 236 km is by road and rest 14 km is on foot.
Road: Kedarnath is approachable on footfrom Gaurikund, which is connected by road with Rishikesh, Kotdwara, Dehradun, Haridwar and other important hill stations of Garhwal and Kumaon Hills.
Bus This service is available at Rishikesh, Haridwar and Kotdwara for Gaurikund. During Yatra season, some special Yatra services are also arranged to Gaurikund.
Distance from Rishikesh to kedarnath 223 km, via Deoprayag 70 km, Shrinagar 35 km, Rudraprayag 34 km, Tilwara 9 km, Agastyamuni 10 km, Kund 15 km, Sonprayag 3 km Gaurikund 5 km, Rambara 7 km, Garurchatti 4 km, Sri Kedarnath 3 km.
Transport: Buess, private taxies and other light vehicles also ply between Rishikesh and Garikund-Badrinath and back. The charges are not fixed.
Horses, Dandies and Ponies are available at Gaurikund for going and carrying luggage to Kedarnath.
Kedarnath STD Codes

Rishikesh - 0135
Deoprayag - 01378
Srinagar - 01346
Rudraparyag - 01364
Guptkashi - 01364
Gaurikund - 01364
Kedarnath – 01364

Panch Kedar Information

Panch Kedar refers to the five temples of Lord Shiva popularly known as Kedarnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath and Kalpeshwar. Panch Kedar is one the most difficult pilgrimages in India as routes are difficult to trek with few lodges and eating places.

Legend and Mythology of Panch Kedar

The five Kedar lies in the valleys between the rivers Bhagirathi and Alaknanda. The term Kedar itself means a natural rock formation or a glacial moraine. According to legend, himalayas Kedarnath, the chief seat of the Panch Kedar, come into being during the period when the five Pandava brothers were asked to seek Shiva's blessings, purging them off sin of fratricide, or killing their cousin brothers in the terrifying bettle of Kurukshetra. Shiva disguised himself as a bull and started to plunge underground when he was spotted by Pandavas. No wonder the natural rock formation that is worshipped here resembles the rump of bull. The other four places where Shiva is worshipped take their appearance from different part of his body - the navel at Madmaheshwar, the arm at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, and the matted hair at Kalpeshwar.

List of Panch Kedar Temples

Kedarnath » Panch Kedar Travel Guide

The holiest of Shiva's shrines is likened to gold among base metals so that every pilgrim finds peace here, and it is said that devotees who die here become one with Shiva himself. The temple of Kedarnath, located at a height of 3,581 mts, stand at the head of the Mandakini river, with Kedarnath peak keeping vigil above it. The temple is dedicated to the Sadasiva or invisible form of Shiva, and is represented by a natural rock formation. Beyond the temple is the highway to heaven, called Mahapanth.

General Information Kedarnath

Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 251 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 237 Km.
Accommodation : Tourist Rest House, Temple Committee Guest, Private Hotels, lodges and DharamShalas are available.
Nearby Places : Sankaracharya Samadhi, Basuki Tal,
Kund, Bhukund Bhairav,
Chorabari Tal( Gandhi Sarovar )

Madhyamaheshwar » Panch Kedar Travel Guide

Madhmaheshwar (3289 m) - Shiva is worshipped at Madhyamaheshwar in the form of navel - shaped lingum. Located at base of Chaukhamba peak, at an altitude of 3,289 mts, the classic temple architecture belongs to the north - Indian style. So sanctified is the water here that even a few drops are considered sufficient for absolution. The natural scenery is dramatically wild, with deep gorges and himalayas valleys, mountainsides flung upwards towards the skies, and forests where the snow lies thick in winter, only to be replaced by a carpet of greenery in the summer.
Kedarnath and Neelkanth peaks are also visible from here, the entire ring of mountains associated with the life and times of shiva. The confluences of two streams at Gaundar just short of the temple, is one of the prettiest spots in the region.
The temple opens at 7 am and aarti is performed in the evening from 6 pm to 6:45 pm

Route to Madhyamaheshwar

Rishikesh – Shivpuri – DevPrayag – Srinagar – RudraPrayag – Agastyamuni – Suyal Saur – Ukhimath – Uniana – Ransi – Gaundhar – Bantoli – Madhyamaheshwar

General Information Madhmaheshwar

Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 244 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 227 Km.
Accommodation : Dharamshalas are available.

Tungnath » Panch Kedar Travel Guide

Tungnath (3810 m) - Tungnath is the place where the arm (Bahu) of Shiva appeared.. The sanctity of the region of Tungath is considered unsurpassed. The peak of Tungnath is the source of three springs that from the river Akashkamini. At this temple at 3,680 mts, Shiva's arm is worshipped. The highest hindu shrine in the Himalayas, 3kms uphill from Chopta, Tungath is reached through a path that wends through alpine meadows and rhododendron thickets. An hour's climb from here leads to Chandrashila with its panoromic views. The entire journey and the shrine are located in some of the finest, most picturesque pocket of the Himalaya.
The Tungnath temple opens from 6 am to 7 pm. And aarti is performed daily at 6:30 pm

Route to Tungnath

From Rishikesh: Rishikesh – Shivpuri – DevPrayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Agastyamuni – Suyal Saur – Kund – Ukhimath – Chopta – Tungnath
From Gopeshwar: Badrinath Kedarnath Road – Chamoli – Gopeshwar – Mandal – Chopta - Tungnath

General Information Tungnath

Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 232 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 215 Km.
Accommodation : Dharamshalas are available and hotels at Chopta.

Rudranath » Panch Kedar Travel Guide

Rudranath (2286 m) - Rudranath is where the face of Shiva (Mukh) is said to have appeared. Here there is a natural rock temple in which the Shiva Mukha is worshipped. Devotees come to Rudranath to offer ritual obeisance ti their ancestors, for it is here, at Vaitarani river that the soal of dead cross when entering another world. The temple of Rudranath at 2,286 mts, entails trekking through ridges at almost twice that height before reaching the meadow where it is located. Within the sanctum, Shiva's image is worshipped in the form of his face. The temple is surround by several pools - Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, Tara Kund, Manas Kund - while the great peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nanda Ghunti rear overhead.
The Rudranath Temple opens at 7 am, there is special Shingaar Pooja takes place at 7:30 pm. Aarti is performed in the evening at 6:30 pm.

General Information Rudranath

Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 258 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 241 Km.
Accommodation : Dharamshalas are available.

Kalpeshwar » Panch Kedar Travel Guide

Kalpeshwar (2134 m) - situated in the beautiful valley of Urgam, here Shiva is worshipped in his matted hair form (Jata). A favorite spots for sages who come here to meditate, following the precedent of Arghya who performed austerities and created the celebrated nymph, Urvashi, here, and the irascible Durvasha who meditated under the wish fulfilling tree, Kalpavriksha, Pilgrims pray at the small rock temple at a height of 2,134 mts. before the matted tresses of Shiva enshrined in rock in the sanctum sanctorum. The sanctum is preceded by a natural cave passage. Surrounded by thick forests and terraced fields in the Urgam valley, the temple is reached following a 10 km. long trek.
The Kalpeshwar Temple opens at 7 am and aarti is performed in the evening at 6 pm

General Information Kalpeshwar

Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 272 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 155 Km.
Accommodation : Dharamshalas are available.

Badrinath, Uttarakhand India

Badrinath, Uttarakhand India

Badrinath is situated in the lap of Nar-Narayan Parvat, with the towering Neelkanth peak (6,597mts.) in the background. Also known as the Vishal Badri, the largest among the five Badris, it is revered by all as the apt tribute to Lord Vishnu.
It is believed that to revive the lost prestige of Hinduism and to unite the country in one bond, Adi Guru Sri Shankaracharya built four pilgrimage centres in four corners of India. Among them were Badrikashram (Badrinath) in the north, Rameshwaram in the south, Dwarkapuri in the west and Jagannath Puri in the east. Badrinath situated at an elevation of 3,133 mts. is considered to be amongst the most pious.
The revered spot was once carpeted with wild berries which gave it the name 'Badri Van' meaning 'forest of berries.' Built by Adi Shankaracharaya, the philosopher-saint of the 8th century, the temple has been renovated several times due to damage by avalanches and restored in the 19th century by the royal houses of Scindia & Holkar. The main entrance gate is colourful & imposing popularly known as Singhdwar.
Inside Badrinath Temple
A flight of steps takes pilgrims to the main gate & then into the temple. The temple is divided into three parts - the 'Garbha Griha' or the sanctum sanctorum, the 'Darshan Mandap' where the rituals are conducted and the 'Sabha Mandap' where devotees assemble. The Garbha Griha portion has its canopy covered with a sheet of gold offered by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. The complex has 15 idols especially attractive is the one-metre high image of lord Badrinath, finely sculpted in black stone. It represents Lord Vishnu seated in a meditative pose called padmasan.
Darshan Mandap: Lord Badrinath is sitting meditating in the padmasana (lotus yogic posture). As you look at the Deities, standing to the right side of Badrinarayana is Uddhava. To the far right side are Nara and Narayana. Narada Muni is kneeling in front on the right side and is difficult to see. On the left side are Kubera, the god of wealth, and a silver Ganesh. Garuda is kneeling in front, to the left of Badrinarayana.
Special pujas are also performed on behalf of individuals. Every puja must be preceded by a holy dip in the Tapta Kund. Some of the special morning pujas are Abhishek, Mahaabhishek, Geeta Path. Some special evening pujas are Aarti & Geet Govind. Such pujas are to be booked in advance. The temple opens at 0430 hrs & closes at 1300 hrs. Once again it opens at 1600 hrs & closes at 2100 hrs after the divine song Geet Govind. Rawal is the administrator-Pujari of the temple well versed in puja ceremonials & Sanskrit language and is expected to be celibate..
Badri refers to a berry that was said to grow abundantly in the area, and nath refers to Vishnu. Badri is the Sanskrit name for the Indian Jujube trees, which has an edible berry. Some scriptural references also refer to Jujube trees being abundant in Badrinath. Legend has it that Goddess Lakshmi took the form of the berries to protect Lord Vishnu from the harsh climate during his long penance.
The opening of Badrinath Temple shrine
The opening date of Badrinath Temple is fixed on Basant Panchami by Raj Purohit and closure date is fixed on Vijaydashmi by Mandir Committee. The temple opens every year in the month of April-May & closes for winters in the third week of November. Joshimath is the winter deity of Badrinath.
Special booking of pujas can be done at Badrinath Mandir Committee by paying some fees. The pooja is organized before the temple is open for general public.
Some festivals celebrated in Badrinath are: Mata Murti ka mela, Krishna Janamashtami and Badri-Kedar utsav.
Badrinath's four subsidiary Badris populary known as Panch Badri include Bhavishya Badri, Yogdhyan Badri, Bridha Badri and Adi Badri. It is popularly believed that with spread of Buddhism, the Buddhists enshrined the statue of Lord Buddha there and during the Hindu renaissance, the statue of Buddha was later restored by Adi Guru as the idol of Vishnu. This possibly explains the deity sitting in Padmasan posture, typical of Buddha icons. However, also according to Hindu mythology, Buddha was considered to be the ninth incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Panch Badri Information

The five Badries are revered by all as the apt tribute to Lord Vishnu. Badrinath is devoted to the worship of Vishnu who, according to an amusing tale, usurped this place from Shiva. For Vishnu had come here as the gods once did, to offer penance. He loved the place so much that he plotted to unseat Shiva from his meditation here. He took on the form of a beautiful child and began to wail. Shiva's wife, Parvati picked him up but could not calm the child. Since his wailing continued to disturb Shiva, he shifted to Kedarnath in exasperation, leaving the spot free for Vishnu to occupy. But remainders of Shiva's stay continue to linger, most visibly in the name, badri, a kind of berry that Shiva was most fond of, and the gigantic tree, invisible to the morale eye, that served Shiva. Considered one of the Char Dgam or four principle places of Hindu worship at himalayas, Badrinath's four subsidiary badries include Bhavishya Badri, Yogdhyan Badri, Vridha Badri and Adi Badri.
lso known as Vishal Badri, this temple located at the height of 3,133 mts. is the largest himalayas and most popular of Vishnu pilgrimages among the five Badries. The original temple here is believed to be built by King Pururava and the icon of the lord carved by Vishwakarma, the creator of the gods. The idol was recovered by Adi Shankaracharya from the waters of the nearby Naradkund and consecrated once more in the temple, restored in the 19th century by the royal houses of Scindia & Holker.
So holy in this shrines that it forms one of the four prominent places of Hindu worship. The epic Mahabharata, it is believed, was composed in the Vyas and Ganesh caves close by. The Vishnu Ganga which later becomes Alaknanda flows below the while Neelkanth keeps vigil over all devotees.

General Information for Badrinath

Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 316 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 299 Km.
Accommodation : Tourist Rest House, Temple Committee Guest, Private Hotels, lodges and DharamShalas are available.
Nearby Places : Pachshila, Ardhkedareshwar, Sheshnetra, Charanpaduka, Atri Ansuya Asharam, Ganesh Gupha, Bhirgu Gupha, Basudhara, Panch Dhara, Vyas Gupha, Satopanth
Bhavishya Badri » Panch Badri Information Guide
The Bhavishya Badri is located at 2,744 mts. amidst the thick forests surrounding Tapovan. According to a divination, it is here that all devotees will throng once Badrinath is no more. While there can be no conceivable reason why this should happen, scientists agree that Joshimath, the entry point into the area before the final, most strenuous climb, is sited on an ancient landslide and has been sinking, and with a barrage coming up close by, may actually see the fulfillment of the divine prophecy.
But whatever happens, Bhavishya Badri is popular even now. Enshrined here is the lion headed image of Narsingh. Visitors pass the serene the Tapovan a place known for its hot water springs en route to the banks of the Dhauliganga, and on to shrine.

General Information for Bhavishya Badri
Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 297 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 280 Km.
Accommodation : The accommodation is available at Joshimath and Tapovan.
Yogdhyan Badri » Panch Badri Information Guide
Every so often in the Garhwal Himalayan, tales from the Mahabharatha spring magically to life. Yogdhyan Badri, 1,920 mts. is located at Pandkeshawar, named after the Pandavas King. It is said that the Pandavas, victorious after their battle against the Kauravas, but emotionally scarred, came to the himalaya. And it was here that they handed over their capital, Hastinapur, to Raja Prikshit and took up penance before seeking out the highway to heaven. The importance of the badri is immence and the sanctum has an image of the lord in a meditative postures.

 General Information Yagdhyam Badri

Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 294 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 277 Km.
Accommodation : Private hotels and Gurudwaras are available at Govind Ghat just 3 km. from here.
Vridh Badri » Panch Badri Information Guide
Before Badrinath was designated one of the four Char Dhams of Hindu worship by Adi Shankaracharya, the idol of Badrinah carved by divine Vishwakarma was enshrined and worshipped here. It is said that when mankind entered the age of Kali, Vishnu chose to remove himself from the temple. Interestingly the image was found by Adi Shankaracharya at NaradKund, and restored, through part of it remains damaged. This, the first Badri, is located at the height of 1,380 mts. at Animath. While Badrinath closes during winter, the idol and priests hibernating at Joshimath, Virdha Badri remains opens throughout the years.

General Information Vridh Badri
Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 264 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 247 Km.
Accommodation : Tourist Rest House and Private hotels are available at Joshimath just 8 km. from here.
Adi Badri » Panch Badri Information Guide
Another pilgrimage centre of local importance is this group of 16 temples en route to Ranikhet and closes to the confluences at Karan Prayag. The main temple is dedicated to Narayan and has a raised platform in the pyramidal form. Within the temple, a black stone idolis installed. It is believed that thease temples, dating to the Gupta age , was sanctioned by Adi Sankaracharya who wanted to spread the tenents of Hinduism to every remote corner of the country.

General Information Adi Badri
Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant 209 Km.
Nearest Rail : Rishikesh 192 Km.
Accommodation : Tourist Rest House and Private hotels are available at Karan Prayag 19 km. from here.
Badrinath is well connected through road. The National Highway (NH 58, total length 538 km) from Delhi to Mana is accessible throughout the year.
Road Connectivity: Well connected to Rishikesh , Haridwar , Dehradun , Kotdwar And other hill stations of Garhwal and Kumaon region .

There are two routes to Badrinath from Delhi:

• Route 1 : Delhi - Rishikesh : 243 km by rail/road, Rishikesh-Badrinath :297 km by road.
• Route 2 : Delhi - Kotdwara: 300 km by rail/road, Kotdwara-Badrinath-327 km by road.
• Travel Tip to Badrinath: There is a gate in Joshimath enroute Badrinath to manage the traffic. This gate opens at a interval of 2 hours from 6 am to 4 pm. Pilgrims who reach Joshimath after 4 pm have to stay in Joshimath and continue their journey next day.
Rail Connectivity : Nearest railheads are at Rishikesh 297 km away and Kotdwara 327 km away, which are connected with major cities of North India.
Rishikesh is directly connected by rail with Howrah, Bombay, Delhi & Lucknow.
Airways: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun (317kms.)

Distance To Badrinath from:

Delhi - 518 km,
Haridwar - 321 km
Dehradun 343 km
Rishikesh - 297 km
Deoprayag - 225 km
Rudraprayag - 155 km
Karnprayag - 123 km
Joshimath - 42 km (takes 2.30 – 3.00 hours)

STD Codes

Haridwar: 0133
Devprayag : 01378
Rudraprayag : 01364
Karanprayag : 01363
Nandaprayag : 01372
Joshimath: 01389
Badrinath: 01381

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks

District : Chamoli district in the Garhwal Division of Uttaranchal
Location : 300 kms from Delhi
Famous For : Snow Leopards
Most Famous Activity : Trekking

Established in : 1982. To See : Bharal, Himalayan Tahr, Serow, Goral, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Brown Bear, Leopard, Common Langur, Himalayan Musk Deer, and Brown Beer.

 Best Time To Visit : April to October. Raining Season Lasts from June to August.

Trekking Options : One Needs to Take 23 kms Long Trekking Routes to Reach this Park.

 Other Attractions : 114 Species of Birds, 28 Species of Butterflies.

Staying Options : No Accommodation in Provided in the Park. One Has to Stay in Joshimath.

Getting Around : Joshimath – 23 kms, Valley of Flowers.

 Important Distances : Rishikesh – 276 kms, Delhi – 300 kms.

 Getting There : Air –The Nearest Airport is at Jolly Grant at Dehradun at a Distance of Around 295 km from the Nanda Devi National Park. There are Regular Flights to Delhi from here.

Rail – The Nearest Railhead is Rishikesh at a Distance of 276 km.

Road – Metalled Roads are There till Joshimath from Where One has to Trek to Reach this Place. In Summers Treks to this Region are Organised.

Inside Tip : Maintain silence while exploring the park and make use of your Binoculars to have a clearer view of the animals. Follow the Environmental Guidelines.

Nanda Devi National Park in Uttaranchal

Take up wildlife tours of Uttaranchal, come to Nanada Devi National Park and see the Most exotic wildlife that inhabit this patch of Himalayas. Situated in the Chamoli district of Uttaranchal, this park is encircled by five peaks. Declared as a world heritage site, this famous wildlife sanctuary was given the special status of being a Biosphere reserve. Due to its location at very high altitude, it is covered with snow, most part of the year. Visit this wildlife park during the months of April to October, and if you want to enjoy the mountain rains then the best time is June to August.
In Nanada Devi sanctuary one can enjoy a rich diversity in the flora as well as fauna. Among the Alpines and Juniper scrubs you can site Musk Deer, Serow and Himalayan Tahr. This wildlife resort is also a great site of birding.

Nanda Devi Attractions – The Varieties of Life Fostered in the Wildlife Sanctuary

The major attraction of this popular wildlife hub lies in its eco system that has many varieties of flora and fauna. This park has remained camouflaged from the humans and have some of the best preserved views. As it is situated among the Himalayan peaks, there is a very diverse type of vegetation found here. Having one of the richest preserve of of flora in the world, there are some 312 floral species here of which 17 are rare ones.
Among the fauna of the area one can try to site snow leopards. Though elusive, but there are considerable numbers of these cats. Here. Among the Bear family there are Himalayan bear and yellow leopards as well. Blue sheep, Musk Deer, Serow and Himalayan Tahr are the most commonly sighted wilds of this park.
The rich variety of Avifuna can be judged on the fact that 114 species of birds home Nanda Devi National Park. Bird sighting is best during the May to June, as then the number of birds increase further. Some of the birds that one can see are Black Tit, yellow-bellied Fantail Flycatcher, orange-flanked Bush Robin, blue fronted Redstart, Indian Tree Pipit, Vinaceous Breasted Pipit , Common Rosefinch and Nutcracker. To add to the attraction further, there are some 28 varieties of butterflies here.

Adventure in the Home of the Frenzied

Although Nanda Devi is bereaved of any safari option, but one can definitely enjoy the trekking routes. The pleasant weather during the summers, invites a lot of tourist to indulge in this sport. This park can be reached only by taking up treks from Joshimath. Trekking is also the best way to sight the most elusive beings.

Getting There – Reaching the Highest National Park in Uttaranchal

The nearest airport to reach Nanda Devi National Park in Uttaranchal is Jolly Grant, near Dehradun (295 kms). Regular flights from Delhi and other metros ply between these terminals. To come to Nanda Devi wildlife sanctuary, the nearest railhead is at Rishikesh. This town is merely 276 kms from this park and well linked rail tracks connect these areas to the rest of the world.
To reach via roadways, one have to reach Joshimath, connected with well metaled roads. From here, the tourists needs to undertake a long and strenuous trek to reach the Nanda Devi National Park.

 

Valley Of Flowers 

Nestled in the picturesque valley of Garhwal Himalayas in the state of Uttarakhand, this place is infectiously beautiful for alpine flowers and incredible natural sceneries. Nanda Devi National Park is near by and together its called Nanda Devi and Valley Of Flowers National Park. The park spreads over an area of 87.50 km square and also recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The park is also famous for variety of fauna and rich with rare and endangered wild creatures. Home of some of the beautiful animals like Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, brown bear and blue sheep.

As the name suggest the place is beautifully adorned by varieties of flowers, shrubs, orchids and must see place for phytologist. The place is in the western Himalayas so embellished with Himalayan flowers including ferns, dwarf iris, dwarf larkspur, dwarf rhododendrons, primula, blues poppies, fritillaria, asters and uncountable inulka grandifloras. Heavenly abode of chilling streams, shady silver birch and snowy peaks, the place is believed to be playground of fairies and nymphs. It was unknown to people worldwide untill English botanist Frank Smyth in 1931 made it famous detailed 262 different types of flowers in his book, Valley Of Flower.

One Of the popular way to reach valley of flower is the trekking route. The trek route starts at Govindghat in Uttarakhand. From there its a long 14 kms trek to Ghangria. Ghangria is the base and gateway to valley and usually people stay here. The total trek takes about seven hours and require lots of energy and mental toughness but the beauty surrounding the valley simply refreshing. It is recommended to visit the the place in rainy season when the Bhyundar Ganga has maximum surge and roaring past you.

Key Species In Valley Of Flowers MAMMALS - Leopard, Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, Red Fox, Himalayan Weasel, Yellow-throated Marten, Himalayan Black Bear, Brown Bear, Himalayan Mouse-hare, Bharal (Blue Sheep), Indian Flying Squirrel. BIRDS RAPTORS- Lammergeier, Himalayan Griffon, Common Kestrel, Golden Eagle, Black Eagle. BIRDS RAPTORS- Lammergeier, Himalayan Griffon, Common Kestrel, Golden Eagle, Black Eagle.

FLORA - Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, Himalayan Snowcock, Snow Partridge, Hill Partridge, Chukar, Red-billed Chough, Yellow-billed Chough, Common Raven, Grandala, Snow Pigeon, Spotted Laughingthrush, Variegated Laughingthrush, Plain-backed Thrush, Upland Pipit, Rosy Pipit, Rock Bunting, White-capped Bunting Brown Dipper, White-throated Dipper, Spotted Forktail, Little Forktail FLORA TREES pines, maples, firs, spruces, rhododendrons, silver birch, common yew, asters, balsams, dandelions, edelweisses, gentians, geraniums, irises, lilies, poppies (Blue Poppy above), potentillas, primulas, saussurea, senecios.

Invaluable Suggestions You need to obtain an entry permit from the Forest Checkpost at the entrance to the park. This permit is valid for three days. You have to pay apetty sum of money but there are additional charges for still cameras, video cameras. Park is open for the visitors for only during the day time. The valley is reachable from Govindghat. There are possibly two ways to reach there. One is Rishikesh-Srinagar-Karnprayag-Joshimath-Govindghat that is roughly 270 kms and another one is Haldwani-Ranikhet-Karnprayag-Joshimath-Govindghat that is 332 kms. Best time to visit the park is during the rainy season thats mid July to mid September. Joshimath, at a distance of around 23 km from the Nanda Devi National Park, is an important place in any expedition to the higher altitudes of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Area : 87.5 Sq. Kms. Year of establishment : 1982 Location: On the upper expansions of Bhyundar Ganga in Chamoli District of Uttar Pradesh. Climate : July and August Maximum Temp.: 170 Celsius Minimum Temp : 70 Celsius Head Quarters : Joshimath Nearest Railway Station : Rishikesh, Distt. Dehradun Nearest Air Port : Jolly Grant, Distt. Dehradun (17 Kms. From Rishikesh) Nearest petrol pump : Jharkula, Joshimath (22 kms. Before Govindghat) Nearest Hospital/Market/Bank : Joshimath Nearest Post & Telegraph Office/Phone : Govindghat How To Reach? By Air- Jolly Grant airport of Dehradun falls the nearest to the Valley of Flowers. By Train- The nearest railhead is Rishikesh at a distance of 276 km By Road- Valley of Flowers is well connected with most of the major cities

Sun Temple Konark

Chariot wheels  

 

Carvings 

                                                                         Temple

                                                                    
One of the most stunning monuments of religious significance, a true masterpiece of architecture proudly stands in the form of Sun Temple at Konark. A culmination of Oriya architecture, the temple is a wonderful place as the language of stone defeats the human language here. Built in 13th century by King Narasimhadeva, the temple is designed in the shape of a colossal chariot with seven horses and twelve wheels, carrying the sun god, Surya, across heavens.

Located at a manageable distance from the seat of Lord Jagannath, Puri at 35 kms; the temple is around 65 kms from the capital city of Bhubaneswar. The name of Konark temple is an amalgamation of two words--Kona meaning corner and Arka meaning the Sun. That is to say that the Sun god worshipped in Ark Kshetra is called Konark. Legend says that after killing the demon Gyasur, Lord Vishnu placed his belongings at several places to commemorate the victory. With His conch at Puri, Disc in Bhubaneshwar and Mace in Jajapur; He placed the Lotus at Konark.

The temple being an important landmark in the coastal voyage of European sailors was named 'The Black Pagoda' by them. The mythological reference states that Lord Krishna's son Samba was smitten with leprosy due to his father's curse. The former underwent severe penance for 12 years at Mitravana near the confluence of Chandrabhaga River with the sea at Konark and ultimately succeeded in pleasing the God Surya, the healer of all skin diseases, and was cured of his illness. In gratitude, he decided to erect a temple in the honor of Surya.

While bathing in the river on the following day, he found an image of God, fashioned out of Surya's body by Viswakarma. Samba installed this image in a temple built by him in Mitravana, where he propitiated the God. Since then, this place has been regarded as sacred.

In ancient times worship of Sun god was in vogue and the people were accustomed with the worship of two Supreme deities--one mother Earth as Dharitri Maata and the other the Sun, the Dharam devata. Sun god is regarded as the supreme lord of the universe and the prime object of life giving energy, being the healer of diseases and bestower of desires.

Surya has been a popular deity in India since Vedic period. Therefore, it is described in Rig Veda regarding Prayer of Sun God as follows. It was dedicated to the Sun-God (Arka) popularly called Biranchi-Narayan, and the tract in which it is situated was known as Arka-Kshetra as well as padma-kshetra. Among the five great religious zones or Kshetra which were located in Orissa, Konark was considered to be one, the other four being Puri, Bhubaneswar, Mahavinayak, and Jajpur.

There are several smaller shrines situated in the neighborhood of the Sun Temple. In them are found Rameswar,Chitreswara,Tribeniswara, and Utpaleswar, all Siva-lingas; and Ramachandi Rudrani, Khileswari, Charchika and Chitreswari, various forms of Goddess Durga. Legends embodied in the Kapila Samhita, the Madala Panji, and the Prachi-mahatmya, take the sanctity of Konark back to mythical times. The legends of these late texts are an obvious adaptation of a much earlier tradition as recorded in the Bhavisya Purana and the Samba Purana.

Muttoor – A Karnataka Village That Speaks in Sanskrit

Muttoor, the village of about 2,000 inhabitants, is located about 8 km south of Shimoga. The Tunga river flows gently on one side of the village. Its fame as the Sanskrit Gram has spread far and wide. Sanskrit is the spoken language of over 95 per cent of the people here. Soft and dulcet, a conversation sounds like a Vedic recital. Though it is a journey, which began about 500 years ago, Sanskrit has been modified as per the modern needs here by Samskrit Bharati. As one enters the village he is greeted with " bhavatha nam kim? (What is your name?), "coffee va chaayam kim ichchhathi bhavan? (What will you have, coffee or tea?). The pronunciation of "Hari Om" instead of ‘hello’ and "katham asti" instead of ‘how are you?’ are common here.

Shimoga is a colorful district with attractive landscape, waterfalls, green forests, river valleys and beautiful fields. The district is situated in the center of karnataka. It is located at a distance of 275 Kms from Bangalore, nestling at an altitude of 640 m above sea level. Tunga, Bhadra, Sharavathi, Varada and Kumadvathi rivers have made this district a rice bowl in the state.

According to history the name is derived from 'Shiva-Mukha' - Face of Shiva , 'Shivana-Mogu' - Nose of Shiva, 'Shivana-Mogge' - Buds of flowers meant for Lord Shiva. It is also believed that Sage Durvasa lived here, he is known for his temper. He used to keep on the oven a pot boiling with sweet herbs. Once, some cowherds happened to taste the sweet herbs, and called the place 'Sihi-Moge' (sweet pot).
Shivamogga is known as cultural capital of Karnataka.

History

In 1881, two early stone-age tools were discovered in a Shingle bed at Nyamati, at a short distance from the Tungabhadra river. They were bi-facial pebble tools made of quartzite, one with a rounded working edge and the other with a pointed working edge. Some Neolithic sites were noticed and also uncovered.

Kadambas, Gangas, Chalukyas, Rastrakutas and Vijayanagar Kings ruled this region. The Keladi Nayakas was the most important ruler among the ruling families. Shimoga became famous all over the world. From the late 17th century onwards, the city was a part of the Kingdom of Mysore until the independence of India in 1947, when Mysore merged into the Republic of India.

Tourist Attractions

Shivappa Nayaka Palace
The summer palace of Shivappa Nayaka of Nagara is an archaeological monument situated right in the heart of the city.The palace is neatly maintained by the Archaeological department, preserving relevant historical details.The palace is entirely built of rose wood, which has a collection of stone carvings and antiquities of the Keladi period.
The palace, located adjacent to Kote Seeta-Rama Temple, it is around 4 km from central bus station and can easily be reached by auto.

Sacred heart cathedral

The Sacred Heart Cathedral is one of the major attraction of the town.The architecture of the church is in Roman graphic style. The church is said to be the 2nd largest church in India. The church is about 18000 square feet in area with a big prayer hall. Which has the capacity of 5000 peoples. The attractive statue of Jesus attracts tourists and pilgrims .
The cathedral is situated on the side of B.H. Raste (road). Being just 3 km from the central bus stand, it can be reached either by city buses or by auto rickshaw.

Tyarekoppa Lion Safari

This Safari is located at Tavarekopoa 10 Kms away from Shimoga on B.H Road (N.H 206), Sagar route. Forest department has set-up the Shettihalli Lion Safari, where we can see some Tigers, Lions, Cheeta, Bear, Deer and rare migratory Birds.The safari is spread around an area of 200 Hectares of dense forest.
Children recreation facilities are available. Timing 9 A.M to 5 P.M everyday except Tuesday is a holiday. Almost all buses to Sagar will stop here.

Jog Falls : Jog Falls is situated on the borders of Shimoga and North Kanara, 100 Kms from Shimoga city. The Western Ghats gives rise to the Sharavati river that plunges from a height of 829 Feet in four magnificent Jog falls from view pointcascades namely Raja, Rani, Rover and Rocket.
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Elephant Camp (Shakrebyle)

Elephant camp is 13 Kms from Shimoga on Thirthahalli Road, located on the banks of the Tunga reservoir, every morning all the elephants take their bath and proceed to near by forest for their rounds after 10 A.M. You can also see elephants being trained by training professionals. Elephant from the adjoining forests bathe at this spot before they re-enter their forest abode.

Tourist should reach this spot before 9 A.M. City buses are available at 7.30, 8.30 and 10 A.M daily.

Koodali

It is 16 Kms from Shimoga on Holehonnur, Channagiri Road. Rivers Tunga and Bhadra join here, hence the name Koodali. The rivers Tunga and Bhadra were born here. It flows overwellemingly from here.
Koodali is also a religious center. It is also called as Varnasi of the south. Shankarcharya Mutt is here which is 600 years old. The inscriptions of Hoysala and Ikkeri Kings are found here.

Mandagadde

It is 32 Kms from Shimoga on Thirthahalli Road. It is a Bird Sanctuary on Tunga River. Birds like Egret, Carmorant Darter, Snake Bird are found here.The place is surrounded by dense lush green forest and the flow of river Tunga has created a small island which adds to the beauty. The dense trees on the island provides shelter to migrating birds which migrate from different parts of the world during may season for breeding A high platform is built on the edge of river Tunga for bird watching. Boats are available for a closer watch.
There is a watchtower in the premises, which makes bird watching more convenient and frequent. The best time to visit Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is in August, which is the peak season for migration. During this time there are more than 5000 birds in the sanctuary.
Tunga Anecut
10 Kms from Shimoga city on the way to Thirthahalli, you can find a place called Gajanur. The Tunga dam is situated here. A ideal picnic spot for the people around. Boat ride in the lake is the favorite activity that tourists like.

The dam is open from 10 A.M to 5 P.M on all days.

Getting Here
By Air: The nearest airport to Shimoga is at Hubli which is at a distance of 165 Km. Other airports accessible from Shimoga are Mangalore (200 Km) and Bangalore (274 Kms). In near future, an airport at Sogane is expected to open. It is around 6 Km from Shimoga.
By Rail: Shimoga has its own railhead and is well connected to Bangalore and Mysore by regular trains. Though connection with other cities of India is less.

By Road: Shimoga is connected by NH 206 to the capital city Bangalore. Distance between the two cities is 274 km and can be covered in about 6 hrs. There are regular buses between the two cities. Shimoga can also be approached from Mangalore and Udupi. The entire route is quite picturesque. Luxury coaches run by KSRTC are the most convenient way of commuting.

Local Transportation: To move around in the city, auto rickshaws are the most common form of transportation. Taxis are also available for hir