Panch Kedar Yatra

Tungnath Temple Uttarakhand

As per the historical legend, the Pandavas searched for the blessings of Lord Shiva in order to expiate their sins after their victory in the battle of Mahabharata. Lord Shiva repeatedly eluded Pandavas and while fleeing from them he took refuge at Kedarnath as a Bull. When Lord Vishnu was being followed, he suddenly dived into the ground and left his hump behind on the surface. At this shrine the conical protrusion is being highly worshipped in the form idol. Now, I will tell you that Garhwal state of Uttaranchal is the proud owner of these Panch Kedar (5 Kedars) shrines that are named as Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madmaheshwar, and Kalpanath.

Kedarnath is the very first Kedar situated at the head or tip of the river Mandakini, is surely one of the holiest pilgrimages for Hindus. It is a very ancient temple which has been renovated several times over the centuries. The lingam present at this shrine is surely pyramidal and is also regarded as one amongst the 12 Jyotirlingas around India. It is located at an altitude of 3,581 meters.

The second shrine in Panch Kedar is the Tungnath which is present at the crest of the hill at the height of 3,886 meters. It is the highest temple across India. As per the legend it is believed that the arm of Lord Shiva is present here. Moreover, it is also said that Ravana from the Legendary Ramayana performed penance here in order to propitiate Shiva. It is exactly situated in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. There are two different stories attached to this temple. Some say that the Pandavas built this temple to please Shiva and to get salvation whereas some people say it was built by Adi Shankaracharya.

Rudranath is the third Pancha Kedar where the face of Lord Shiva is worshipped in the name of Neelkanth. It is situated amid thick forest at an altitude of 2286 meters. This beautiful temple offers a magnificent and elegant view of Hathi Parvat, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti and Nanda Devi. The divine river Baitarani flows behind the temple. There are so many holy Kunds (Tanks) present near Rudranath temple such as Suryakund, Tarakund, Chandrakund, and several more.

Madhyamaheshwar is the fourth Panch kedar where it is believed that the stomach of Lord Shiva emerged. It is situated at an altitude of 3,289 meters above sea level. It is almost 25 km away from northeast of Guptakashi. You will glad to know that the trek from Kalimath to this temple is well distinguished with the wild and unparalleled scenic beauty.  

Kalpeshwar is the fifth Kedar which is located in the Urgam valley at a height of 2,134 meters. Here we worship the head and the locks (hair) of Lord Shiva. It is the best place for sages to meditate. It is believed that Rishi Durvasa meditated at this temple under the wish-fulfilling tree Kalpavriksha.