Rudraprayag

About Rudraprayag History

Rudraprayag is a lovely Hindu holy town in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand state of India which is one of the Panch Prayag i.e Five confluence of Alaknanda River. This place is in the confluence of river Alaknanda and Mandakini i.e Kedarnath, a sacred great religious significance full of charm and mysterious vibes. The town is named after the Hindu deity Lord Shiva who is believed to have appeared here in form of Rudra. This destination offers stunning views of mesmerizing vistas and boasts the blessed by Mother Nature with full glory. It is the gateway to the famous pilgrimage place i.e Kedarnath and Badrinath, as well as Rudraprayag, which is home to ancient several temples. Many tourists and devotees visit here in huge numbers seeking peace and spirituality here. And this holy town is encircled by the emerald lake, foaming river, glacier, and silver streams.

Rudraprayag Geography

Rudraprayag is located at the confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini. Rudraprayag established in 1997, is situated at an elevation of 895m above sea level which is also one of the Panch Prayag which is blessed with nature’s gifted beauty. This district is formed by adjoining three other districts namely; part of Khirsu block from Pauri District, Jakholi and Kirtinagar from Tehri District, and the whole of Augustmuni and Ukhimath block and part of Pokhri and Karnprayag block from Chamoli District. This heavenly beautiful destination is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, Peace, and Nature lovers as well as solo travelers and Pilgrimage travelers especially Hindu devotees.

Plan my Package Recommendation: Places to Visit in Rudraprayag

Augustmuni

Augustmuni located 22 km from Rudraprayag, is situated on the bank of the river Mandakini where the town is dedicated to Indian mythology that is one of the most reserved teachers. It is also important for the famous Char Dham. This place lies on the bank of River Mandakini and the surrounding beauties of the Himalayas. It is filled with spirituality and a small village that was built by ancient ages in the name of the famous Rishi Augustya. This place has a wonderful place to rejuvenate and relax with the fiercely flowing Mandakini River and the coolness of the air that makes the place utterly charm with its relaxed appearance. This place is best for getting away from the crowd and fill with paradise. It is only 18km from Gaurikund and 50 km from Kedarnath. There are also believe that Saint Agastya was the first person who spread Yoga around the world and also has beautiful famous Hindu idols on its walls.

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is located on the bank of the Alaknanda River and is only 4.8km from Rudraprayag where one has to go 100 steps to reach the temple. The place is surrounded by green trees and a target spot for both excitement and the pilgrim’s seekers. The Koteshwar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. And this temple is popular and attractive because the temple is in a cave with the Alaknanda river flowing from a few meters away. Koteshwar Mahadev temple is bound with the aura of exceptional religious and sincere devotions. Many devotees visit here to meditate and seek peace from the heavenly and natural blessing.

Chopta

Chopta is a beautiful picturesque which is yet more left to explore by tourists which are also known as ‘Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand’ located about 23km from Rudraprayag. The morning views of the Chopta are stunning with the breeze and the chirping of birds is magnificent. Chopta is also a heaven for trekkers as well as the camps of the trek like Chopta, Chandrashila, Tugnanath, etc. This place is bounded by Deodars, dwindling pines, rhododendrons, and another beautiful alpine also found in this region that is rich with flora and fauna. The third temple of Panch Kedar is located in Tugnanath which is around 3.5km from Chopta. One can also witness the snow-covered peaks of Nanda Devi, Chaukhambha, and Trishul.

Kartik Swami Temple

Kartik Swami Temple has located about 15km from Rudraprayag at an altitude of 3000m above sea level with wonderful breathtaking landscapes. Kartik Swami Temple is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya i.e son of Lord Shiva. One should have a trek through a thrilling trail to reach the temple along with rugged terrain and enchanting greenery. From the hilltop, it will witness the magnificent Himalayan peaks and this place is a fascinatingly unique destination to visit and experience the mother nature that gives the mesmerizing vibes. According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Shiva challenged his sons i.e Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya, that whoever first finishes the seven parikramas of the universe will be worshiped before any other God. Just after hearing the challenge, Lord Kartikeya headed off to circle the universe on his peacock whereas Lord Ganesha circled his parents seven times and received the privilege of being worshipped before any other God. As a result, Lord Kartikeya showed anger and sacrificed his body and bones to his father as reverence. So believed to have settled later here. This place also offers magnificent sunrise and sunset views along with evening prayers, Maha Bhandara, and chanting of mantras with a few festivals and events.

Maa Hariyali Devi Temple

Maa Hariyali Devi Temple has located just 15km from Rudraprayag at an altitude of 1400m above sea level presiding many diety including Bala Devi, Sitla Mata, and Vaishno Devi. It is believed that Mahamaya was the seventh child of Devaki and forcefully Kansa threw her right away just after her birth. And her body shattered into many parts across the world and Mahamaya’s hands have fallen at Hariyali Kantha, hence the temple was built. The deity in this temple is in the yellow dress, carrying a child along with sitting on the Lion. One will also witness the idols of Kshatrapal and Heet Devi that were installed. This temple celebrates the festivals, Janmashtami and Diwali which are the festivals of pureness and joyous.

Gaurikund

Gaurikund, located about 41km from Rudraprayag which is in Guptakashi situated at the banks of Mandakini River which is famous for the initial point and ending road before the Kedarnath Yatra. It is at an elevation of 2000m above sea level. There are a lot of temples and landmarks one must not miss out on while visiting here. According to the legend, the place is named after Lord Shiva’s wife’s Goddess Parvati and this place is where Goddess Parvati performed yoga and ascetic to win over Lord Shiva, and where Lord Shiva accepted Goddess Parvati and took their wedding at Triyugi Narayan which is located at a nearby distance. One can also go for a trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, i.e 14km in distance but very risky since the route was washed away by the 2013 flood and recently improved and become safe to trek. One can witness the snow cover throughout the year except for March to November.

Places Near Rudraprayag

Triyuginarayan

Triyuginarayan is a famous Hindu devotee place located about 79km from Rudraprayag at an altitude of 1980m above sea level which is known for Triyuginarayan Temple i.e Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that this place is where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati married witnessed by Lord Vishnu. The temple has a distinctive feature that there was a constant fire that burn in front of the temple believed to be burned since their divine marriage hence also known as Akhand Dhuni temple. And the name of this temple is made from three words i.e Tri means three, Yuga means the period of Time, and Narayan Means Vishnu. This place lies in the degree of where devotees can worship Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva as well as Goddess Parvati at a cluster area. Moreover, Lord Brahma also witness the marriage so all the important deity of Hindi is clustered here best for those who want to soak into the Hindu mighty. Above those, almost all the deity idols of Hindus can be witnessed here like Lord Hanuman, Lord Garuda, Goddess Annapurna Devi, and Lord Vinayaka. This place is filled with freshness and purity with scenic views and tranquility. One must visit this place for all devotees.

Tungnath

Tungnath is a place known for its quaint village located about 70 km from Rudraprayag also a starting point of Chopta Chadrashila Trek at an altitude of 2680m above sea level. The place is like a marginal spellbound which is surrounded by an evergreen forest of deodar, pine, and rhododendron. One can also go for a trek which is perfect for beginners which covers the large region from Haridwar to Chandrashila along with enchanting views. Other trek trails can start from Haridwar towards Devarivatal Lake where one can witness the picturesque views of enchanting Chaykhamba ranges. The Tungnath temple awards 360 views of beautiful mesmerizing views of the valley below with other peaks of Panchchuli, Nanda Devi, and Kedarnath that covered during the trek.

Kedarnath

Kedarnath, located at a beautiful Himalayan Range at a distance of 50 km from Rudraprayag and consider one of the most sacred temples of the Hindu Pilgrimage. It is also a part of Chhota Char Dham Yatra as well as among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. One can also reach this place by trekking from Gaurikund and April to November is the best time to visit Kedarnath, it only opens 6 months a year due to heavy snowfall during the rest of the month. The temple is more than 1200 years old and during winter the deity was shifted from Kedarnath to Ukhitmath to worship. The peak of Kedarnath stands behind the temple which adds more stunning views to the scenery of the area. One can also visit nearby places from Kedarnath like Gaurikund, Vasuki Tal, Bhairav, and Chorbari Tal.

Best Time to Visit Rudraprayag

The best time to visit Rudraprayag is between March to November since the summer seasons are pleasant along with a peaceful spiritual aura of the town and will also witness stunning views, many tourists visited during this season. Monsson here will receive moderate rainfall and winter will experience extremely chill with snowfalls.

Rudraprayag in Summer ( April to June)

Rudraprayag in summer experiences moderately hot and summer starts from April and lasts till June. The temperature during the summer season in Rudraprayag is between 20℃ to 36℃ with the cool and breezy wind blowing during the evening. And being the best time to experience outside venture as well as perfect timing for adventurous activities. And the major Hindu festival Ramnavami is celebrated during the month between April and May which marks the birthday of Lord Rama.

Rudraprayag in Monsoon (July to September)

Monsoon in Rudraprayag experiences moderate rainfall and it starts from July till September with a nature shower that brings freshness and rejuvenation to the region with lush green. The temperature is between 22℃ to 27℃ and the surrounding vegetation will be refreshed with beautiful backdrops of the town and during monsoon, there’s a chance of landslides as well as floods so Plan My Package is recommends traveling with cautions. And the festival of Nag Panchami is celebrated during this season.

Rudraprayag in Winter (October to March)

Rudraprayag in winter is extremely cool with the temperature down to between 0℃ to 15℃. And winter begins from the month of October till March but December to February marks the coldest and almost all the temples, outdoor activities were closed during this season. Plan My Package does not recommend traveling during the winter season since there’s a lack of visibility and strong wind.

How to reach Rudraprayag

Rudraprayag by Air

The nearest airport to Rudraprayag is Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun, about 160 km which is well connected to Delhi on daily basis. Tourists from international can travel from Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi to Jolly Grant. Cabs/taxis are available just outside the airport can proceed to the destination.

Rudraprayag by Train

The nearest railway station to Rudraprayag is Rishikesh Railway Station which is around 135km that connects all major cities of the state as well as major destinations of India. There is frequent trains service to Rishikesh that connects to Rudraprayag and further to Haridwar, Badrinath, etc. From the station, one can hire a Cab/taxi to proceed to the destination i.e Rudraprayag.

Rudraprayag by Road

Rudraprayag is well connected by road to all major cities of Uttarakhand. There are buses easily available from Rishikesh to Rudraprayag from Delhi ISBT. Not only buses taxi is also easily available from destinations like Dehradun; 176km, Haridwar; 162km, Pauri Garhwal; 147, Srinagar; 939km, Rishikesh; 139km, etc. The Uttarakhand State Road Transport Corporation and some other private travel services were also easily available and can choose to their preferable comforts and travel to reach the destination with a sightseeings the surroundings. Sone of the nearby destination that broad towards and fro from Rudraprayag are:

Rudraprayag from Ukhimath- 43km, NH-107
Rudraprayag from Gopeshwar- 71km, NH-7
Rudraprayag from Kotdwara- 164km, NH-7
Rudraprayag from Delhi- 397km, NH-7 &334
Rudraprayag from Badrinath-154km, NH-7
Rudraprayag from Devprayag- 66km, NH- 7
Rudraprayag from Sonprayag- 73km, NH-107
Rudraprayag from Tungnath- 70km, NH-107
Rudraprayag from Kedarnath- 50km
Rudraprayag from Chopta- 23km
Rudraprayag from Gaurikund- 41km

Places to Stay in Rudraprayag

Monal Resort

Monal Resort is located at a distance of 5km from Rudraprayag and is easily accessible as well as in one budget. There are variances of rooms to choose along which some of the amenities are offered within the room itself. These well-furnished rooms and accommodation with comfort are the perfect choice to stay and enjoy with friendly service and perfect home feeling facilities like laundry, ironing, doctor on call as well as free parking and free wifi. This resort is within a travel hub and nearby Rudraprayag bus station; 4km, Rishikesh Railway Station; 142km. One can also explore the nearby attractions like Koteshwar Mahadev, Rudraprayag Sangam, etc easily.

Hotel Mandakini

Hotel Mandakini is located at a distance of around 3km from Rudraprayag which mixes comfort and fascinating amenities at a perfect location and will ensure become the tourist perfect choice providing a range of satisfying service and equally enriching experience that pleasure the tourist. The unexpected decor and standard stun from the entrance of the stay. The best part of staying here is guests have the opportunity to choose the room according to their wants. The in-house restaurants with classic furniture with a range of cuisine will make paradise along with 3 master chefs that prepare Indian, Chinese, and Continentals with a pure vegetarian option. From here one can also explore the nearby attractions like Augustmuni;8km, Koteshwar Mahadev; 7km, etc.

Shangrila Resort

Shangrila Resort which is at a distance of about 4km from Rudraprayag which makes the feel of home away from home with perfect relaxation and enjoyment while staying. The service here is magnificent and makes the tourist feel special to stay. There variance of the room like Delux, luxury, four-bed, and facilities like laundry, dry cleaning, Parking. Moreover, the best park here is one can enjoy the bonfire which adds to the comfort satisfaction plus there’s also a children’s park within the property. It is situated at an easily accessible location by any tourist also can visit nearby attractions like Koteshwar Temple; 3km, and many other sides by side attractions.

Places to Eat in Rudraprayag

D K Restaurant

D K Restaurant located about 3 km from the Rudraprayag which is a family restaurant known for Indian cushion also provides Chinese cuisines and is available all the items below ₹500 which is a renowned restaurant in Rudraprayag with a perfect location and comfort. The food here is fascinating and perfect for a big dinner after a long exploration of the region.
● Timing- 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM

Krishna Fast Food

Krishna Fast Food is located within a walkable distance from Rudraprayag on a roadside with round-the-clock open which is perfect for tourists who want to have a bite at any time of the day along with a various range of choices of food at an affordable price. This place is perfect for dining in with friends as well as family with fast service to serve while hot and steamy.
● Timing- 24*7.

New Bamboo Vatika Restaurant

New Bamboo Vatika Restaurant is also located at a walkable distance at a roadside that offers a range of fast food items as well as multiple cuisines for Indians and Asians. While visiting here one must not miss out on dumpling (momo) which is famous in the area and perfect for vegetarians as well as perfect for friends and family to dine in.
● Timing- 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Do's and Don'ts

Do’s

● During winter heavy Woolen clothes are advisable since it’s a hilly area.
● Do wear a mask for safety precautions.
● Following rules and regulations are highly recommended while visiting the lake.
● Do carry a water bottle and small snacks.

Don'ts

● Don’t exploit the environment there
● Don’t litter anywhere
● Don’t break religious rules while entering the temple
● Don’t misuse the things that were kept for the purpose