1. Vishwanath Temple
Location: Guptkashi, about 1 km walking distance from the main road.
Entry Type: Free Entry
Exploration Time: 30 mins
The Vishwanath Temple in Guptkashi is dedicated to
Lord Shiva in his Vishwanath (Master of the Universe) avatar. This temple is often compared to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi due to its similar architectural style and spiritual ambiance. The temple is built using stones, featuring a high tower
over the sanctum and a distinctive slanting roof that is characteristic of Himalayan temple architecture.
As you approach the temple, you will be greeted by an imposing image of
Bhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, adorning the entrance. The temple exterior is beautifully decorated with brightly painted lotuses, adding to its visual appeal. Adjacent to the main temple, there is a smaller shrine dedicated to Ardhanarishvara, a
composite form of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati, symbolizing the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies.
According to local legends, it was here that Lord Shiva proposed to Parvati. Although their wedding ceremonies took place at the Triyuginarayan Temple, the significance of Vishwanath Temple as the proposal site adds a layer of romantic spirituality to its
historical importance.
How to Reach: The temple is easily accessible by road. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (182 km), and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (198 km). Taxis and buses are available from both locations.
2. Narayan Koti Temple
Location: Near Guptkashi, 3 km towards Kedarnath.
Entry Type: Free Entry
Narayan Koti is a fascinating group of ancient temples dedicated to Lakshmi Narayana and other deities. These temples date back to before the 9th century AD and originally comprised 360 structures. Today, 29 temples remain, showcasing the architectural ingenuity
of ancient builders.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Narayan Koti is the presence of nine planetary temples, each representing a planet in the Hindu astrological system. The names of the planets are inscribed on the walls in carved letters, and devotees visit these temples
to perform rituals aimed at achieving planetary peace and balance.
According to mythology, Lord Krishna once revealed his one crore (10 million) forms to the Pandavas at this very site, highlighting its spiritual significance. The temple complex also includes the shrines of Lakshminarayana, Veerabhadra, and Satyanarayana
Bhagwan. Additionally, there is a stone tank known as Virabhadra Kund or Brahmakund, which is believed to have sacred water flowing from the Ganges and Yamuna rivers.
How to Reach: Located 3 km from Guptkashi towards Kedarnath, the temple is easily accessible by road. Char Machan Resort is nearby, providing accommodation options for travelers.
3. Kalimath
Location: Near Kedarnath, 49 km from Rudraprayag.
Travel Time: 21.6 km / 1 hr from Ukhimath Police Station
Exploration Time: 2 hrs
Kalimath, perched at an altitude of 1800 meters, is a significant Shakti Peeth in India. It is situated on the serene banks of the Saraswati river, offering a tranquil environment for devotees. The primary temple here is dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is
believed to have gone underground at this location after slaying the demon Raktbeej.
A unique feature of Kalimath Temple is the silver plate (Sri Yantra) that covers the exact spot where Goddess Kali is said to have entered the earth. This plate is only revealed on the eighth day of Navratri during a special midnight ritual performed by
the chief priest. Another belief holds that the lower part of Goddess Kali is worshipped at Kalimath, while the upper part is revered at the Dhari Devi temple near Srinagar.
Nearby, there is also a Lakshmi Mata temple known for its perpetual fire, and a Bhairav Baba temple, adding to the site's spiritual richness. The divine atmosphere and mythological significance of Kalimath make it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual
solace.
How to Reach: Kalimath is located near the Kedarnath route, about 20 km from Ukhimath. It can be reached by taxi or shared jeep from Rudraprayag. The nearest railway stations are Rishikesh (187 km) and Dehradun (228 km), while the nearest
airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (204 km).
4. Ukhimath
Location: 21.6 km from Guptkashi
Elevation: 1,317 meters
Ukhimath, also known as Okhimath, is a charming village situated at an elevation of 1,317 meters. It serves as the winter abode for the deities of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar when heavy snowfall renders these shrines inaccessible. The Omkareshwar Temple
in Ukhimath becomes the focal point of worship during this period, and the village hosts numerous ancient temples dedicated to various deities, including Usha, Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Aniruddha, and Mandhata.
The serene environment of Ukhimath offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, including the majestic peaks of Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth. This makes it an ideal spot for travelers seeking peace and spirituality.
Ukhimath is also a gateway to several trekking routes, such as the trek to Deoria Tal, which takes adventurers through picturesque villages, lush greenery, and offers breathtaking Himalayan vistas. The village is particularly vibrant during the winter months
when the Utsav Doli (palanquin) of Lord Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar is brought here, and worship continues for the next six months.
Activities in Ukhimath:
- Pilgrimage: As a significant stop in the Winter Char Dham Yatra circuit, Ukhimath attracts numerous pilgrims.
- Trekking: Popular trekking trails, including those to Deoria Tal and Chopta, start near Ukhimath.
How to Reach: Ukhimath is accessible by road. The nearest railway stations are Rishikesh (182 km) and Dehradun (228 km). The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (198 km). Taxis and buses are available from these locations.
5. Triyuginarayan Temple
Location: Near Guptkashi
Elevation: 1,980 meters
Triyuginarayan Temple is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site located in a picturesque village in the Rudraprayag district. Perched at an elevation of 1,980 meters, the temple offers panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains of the Garhwal region. Dedicated
to Lord Vishnu, the temple is built in the architectural style similar to the Badrinath shrine.
Triyuginarayan holds immense mythological significance as the site of the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that Lord Vishnu made all the arrangements for this divine wedding and played the role of Parvati's brother, while
Lord Brahma acted as the priest. The Brahma Shila in front of the temple marks the exact place of the wedding ceremony.
The temple complex features three sacred kunds or ponds: Rudra Kund, Vishnu Kund, and Brahma Kund, each believed to have medicinal properties. These kunds are replenished by the Saraswati Kund, which according to Hindu legend, originated from the navel of
Lord Vishnu. Pilgrims often take a holy dip in these kunds before entering the temple.
In recent years, Triyuginarayan has gained popularity as a wedding destination due to its divine association with Lord Shiva and Parvati's marriage. Many couples choose to tie the knot here, seeking the blessings of the deities for a successful and harmonious
marriage.
Activities in Triyuginarayan Temple:
- Pilgrimage: The temple is visited by thousands of devotees and pilgrims who wish to witness the sacred site of Lord Shiva and Parvati's wedding.
- Trekking: Adventurous visitors can trek to Pawanli Kantha from Triyuginarayan, enjoying the scenic beauty and tranquility of the region.
How to Reach: Triyuginarayan Temple is accessible by road from Guptkashi. The nearest railway stations are Rishikesh (182 km) and Dehradun (228 km). The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (198 km). Taxis and buses are available
from these locations.
Accommodation Option in Guptakashi
When it comes to accommodation in Guptkashi, travelers have a range of options to choose from, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant stay. Among the
best hotels in Guptkashi are Hotel Shivalik Valley Resort and Char Machan Resort, both of which offer modern amenities and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. These hotels provide clean, well-furnished rooms, delectable local cuisine, and warm hospitality,
making them ideal for pilgrims and tourists alike. Additionally, their convenient locations provide easy access to the major attractions and temples in the area, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Conclusion
Guptkashi, with its blend of spirituality, mythology, and natural beauty, offers a rich and fulfilling experience for travelers. From the ancient Vishwanath Temple and the sacred Narayan Koti Temple to the tranquil Kalimath and the serene Ukhimath, each
site provides a unique glimpse into the cultural and religious heritage of the region. The Triyuginarayan Temple, with its divine association and scenic surroundings, adds to the allure of this mystical town.
Whether you are a pilgrim seeking spiritual solace or a traveler looking to explore the hidden gems of Uttarakhand, Guptkashi has something to offer. The town's easy accessibility by road, rail, and air ensures that your journey is convenient and enjoyable.
Plan your visit to Guptkashi and immerse yourself in the serene and sacred ambiance of this enchanting destination.