Kalpeshwar to Rudranath Trek

Kalpeshwar to Rudranath Trek is one of the less frequented pilgrimages in Uttarakhand and that is the reason that has saved its characteristic magnificence in place. The trail goes through well-supporting towns that essentially rely on upon vegetation. This trek offers virgin trail with various courses to approach. While most of the people start this circuit from Helang, it can likewise start from Saggar and Mandal close to Gopeshwar.

Both Kalpeshwar and Rudranath are part of Panch Kedar temples in addition to Kedarnath, Madhmaheshwar, and Tungnath.

Region: Garhwal Himalayas

Duration: 6 Days

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Total Trekking Distance: 60 kms (approx)

Highest Altitude during trek: 4000 mts

Day 1

Arrival in Urgam

Drive: 251 km

Altitude: 2000 m

Stay: Homestay

The drive from Rishikesh to Helang passes through three major confluences – Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag. Take an early morning bus or shared cab that goes up to Joshimath, but make sure you get down at Helang. You need to book a cab from Helang to Urgam, this 12 km stretch will be a bumpy ride.

After reaching Urgam, we will check into a homestay in Urgam and take rest. If time permits, you can also visit the village and interact with locals as well.

Places to Visit During Drive: Rishikesh – Devprayag – Rudraprayag – Karnaprayag – Helang – Urgam

Day 2

Urgam – Kalpeshwar

Trek: 1 hour

Altitude: Varies

Stay: Homestay

Urgam, a charming valley enveloped by rustic villages and lush vegetation, serves as your starting point for the day's journey. Begin your day early, embarking on a trek towards Kalpeshwar Temple, a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The trek from Urgam to Kalpeshwar Temple takes a little over an hour, leading you through serene landscapes and tranquil surroundings. This sacred temple, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, offers a spiritual haven for pilgrims and trekkers alike.

Take time to explore the Kalpeshwar Temple and soak in its divine ambiance, offering your reverence to Lord Shiva. If time permits, you can also consider visiting the Dhyan Badri temple in Devgaon for a deeper spiritual experience.

Day 2 is a journey of both nature and spirituality, promising a memorable and enriching experience at the Kalpeshwar Temple.

Day 3

Urgam – Kalgoth

Trek: 12 km

Altitude: 2400 m

Stay: Homestay

The trek from Urgam to Kalgoth is both challenging and incredibly scenic. We'll hike through dense forests, descend from a mountain peak, and it may take 5-6 hours to reach Kalgoth.

The struggle is part of the adventure, but it's all worth it when you witness the Himalayan vistas from within the forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the symphony of nature.

At Kalgoth, you'll experience warm hospitality at a homestay, giving you a taste of local culture and cuisine.

Day 3 offers a thrilling journey with stunning nature views and a chance to connect with the local community.

Day 4

Kalgoth - Toli Bugyal

Trek: 10 km

Altitude: 2850 m

Stay: Camps

Day 4 promises a remarkable trekking experience as we depart from Kalgoth and head toward Dumak Village, nestled at 2400 meters above sea level. After crossing Dumak and a brief trek to a bridge, our path takes a steep uphill climb. The effort, however, is richly rewarded.

As we traverse through Toli Bugyal, you'll be in awe of this stunning campsite, cradled amidst the embrace of majestic mountains, with the entire Himalayan range unfolding before your eyes.

Toli Bugyal isn't just any campsite; it's the best you could hope for. The open sky, adorned with countless stars, creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for stargazing.

While Toli Bugyal boasts Toli Tal, a water source, it's essential to note that the water isn't suitable for drinking or cooking. However, this minor inconvenience pales in comparison to the sheer magnificence of our surroundings.

At night, you can find rest beneath the star-studded Himalayan sky at Toli Bugyal—an experience that defies description, a night enveloped by the mighty embrace of the Himalayas.

Day 4 invites you to embark on a journey that showcases the very best of nature. You can experience it this way, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 5

Toli Bugyal - Panar – Rudranath

Trek: 12 km

Altitude: 4000 m

Stay: Camps

Prepare for the most rewarding day of our trekking adventure. The day begins with another challenging 3-hour ascent through pristine virgin forests, leading us to the breathtaking Panar Bugyal. This small yet exquisite meadow sits at an elevation of 3400 meters above sea level, making it the most beautiful campsite on our journey. We'll take a break here for a delightful lunch amid this natural wonder.

As you continue the trek, just 15 minutes in, the Himalayas on the left will embrace you with their grandeur. The trail then narrows onto a ridge that guides us to the highest point of our trek, Pitradhar, at 4000 meters. Here, you'll discover a small temple adorned with bells and prayer flags, known as Pitradhar.

From this point onward, the path is mostly downhill, leading us through Panch Dhara. Due to limited camping space at Rudranath, many trekkers choose to return to Panar on the same day. Nevertheless, Rudranath is a truly unique and captivating place surrounded by scenic vistas, situated at an altitude of 3600 meters above sea level.

Day 5 is a day of both physical challenges and breathtaking rewards, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the Himalayas.

Day 6

Rudranath - Panar - Sagar

Trek: 12 km

Altitude: 1700 m

Stay: Homestay

On Day 6, the trek begins from Rudranath, retracing your steps back to Panar. This 12-kilometer journey involves descending from the higher altitudes to an altitude of 1700 meters. Along the way, you'll witness the same scenic beauty from a different perspective, appreciating the landscapes from a new angle.

The day concludes as you reach Sagar, where you'll have the opportunity to stay in a welcoming homestay. It's a chance to connect with the local culture and unwind after another day of adventure in the Himalayas.