Uttarakhand, often hailed as Devbhumi (Land of the Gods), is a realm where spirituality flows as abundantly as the rivers descending from the Himalayas. Among its many sacred sites, the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand — a group of five revered Shiva temples — holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. Nestled in the Garhwal region, these temples not only offer divine blessings but also serve as gateways to Uttarakhand’s stunning landscapes and rich mythological heritage.
The legend of Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand is intricately linked to the Mahabharata. According to lore, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings for atonement. However, unwilling to forgive them, Shiva transformed into a bull and vanished into the ground. The body parts of the bull appeared at different locations in the Himalayas, which later became the five Kedars.
In this blog, we embark on a spiritual and adventurous journey through the Panch Kedars of Uttarakhand, exploring their legends, significance, and the mesmerizing beauty that surrounds them.
List of Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand
1. Kedarnath: The Supreme Kedar
The Legend of Kedarnath
Situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, Kedarnath Temple is the most prominent of the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand. According to legend, the hump of Lord Shiva in the form of a bull emerged at this spot. The temple, built by the Pandavas and later renovated by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, stands as a testimony to divine energy and architectural brilliance.
Architectural Grandeur
Constructed from massive stone slabs, Kedarnath Temple is a marvel of ancient architecture. Its conical Shiva lingam, unlike other Jyotirlingas, represents the hump of the bull. The temple’s surroundings, flanked by snow-clad peaks and the Mandakini River, create a surreal aura, making it a sought-after pilgrimage site.
The Journey to Kedarnath
Reaching Kedarnath requires a 16-kilometer trek from Gaurikund. The trail, blessed with stunning vistas of glaciers and alpine meadows, is a pilgrimage in itself. The recent development of helicopter services has eased access, but the trek remains an unparalleled experience for those seeking spiritual solace.
2. Tungnath: The Highest Shiva Temple
Divine Origins
Perched at an altitude of 3,680 meters, Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world. Here, the arms of Lord Shiva are believed to have appeared. The temple’s origins trace back to over a thousand years, with a legend that ties it directly to the Pandavas’ quest for redemption.
Architectural and Spiritual Significance
Built in the North Indian style of architecture with finely chiseled stones, Tungnath is modest yet profoundly spiritual. The inner sanctum, housing a black rock lingam, is revered for its powerful energy.
The Chandrashila Trek
The 4-kilometer trek from Chopta to Tungnath is a breathtaking journey through rhododendron forests and expansive meadows. For the more adventurous, a further 1.5 kilometers leads to Chandrashila Peak (4,000 meters), offering panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks.
3. Rudranath: The Mysterious Face of Shiva
The Mythical Origins
Rudranath is unique among the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand as it is dedicated to the face of Lord Shiva. Situated in chamoli district at an altitude of 3,600 meters, this temple is shrouded in mystery and tranquility. According to legend, the face of the bull (Shiva) appeared here when he tried to escape from the Pandavas.
A Journey Through Divine Landscapes
The trek to Rudranath is one of the most challenging, spanning 20 kilometers through dense forests, wildflowers, and sacred rivers like Nandikund. The journey is as spiritual as the destination, with each step echoing with chants and the aroma of Himalayan herbs.
Temple Architecture and Aura
Built in natural rock, the temple houses a swayambhu (self-manifested) Shiva lingam. Surrounded by sacred kunds like Surya Kund and Chandra Kund, the serene environment of Rudranath evokes a deep sense of devotion.
4. Madhyamaheshwar: The Navel of Shiva
Myth and History
The Madhyamaheshwar Temple (or Madmaheshwar), at 3,497 meters, is where the navel and stomach of Lord Shiva are believed to have appeared. Legend says that after appearing as a bull, Shiva’s torso emerged here, leading to the construction of this ancient temple.
Sacred Architecture
The temple, made of grey stones, is an architectural gem amidst the raw beauty of the Himalayas. The sanctum houses a black stone lingam in the shape of a navel. Nearby, a smaller temple dedicated to Ardhanarishwara (a form of Shiva and Parvati) adds to the spiritual aura.
The Trek of Tranquility
Access to Madhyamaheshwar involves a 19-kilometer trek from Uniana through quaint villages and lush forests. The trail, dotted with shepherd huts and alpine meadows, is a soul-stirring experience for both trekkers and devotees.
5. Kalpeshwar: The Eternal Jata of Shiva
The Legend of the Jata
The fifth and final Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand , Kalpeshwar, is dedicated to the hair or jata of Lord Shiva. It is the only temple among the Panch Kedar of Uttarakhand that is accessible throughout the year. Tucked away at 2,200 meters, this temple’s modesty contrasts with its powerful spiritual significance.
A Temple in a Cave
Kalpeshwar’s sanctum is a small cave housing the naturally formed lingam representing Shiva’s hair. The temple’s atmosphere is imbued with mysticism, with the silence broken only by the Alaknanda River’s distant murmur.
The Gateway Through Urgam Valley
A 12-kilometer trek from Helang leads to Kalpeshwar through the picturesque Urgam Valley. The path, lined with apple orchards and terraced fields, feels like a journey back in time.