KALPESHWAR
The Five Kedars
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- Tunganath: 3,810 m
- Kedarnath: 3584 m
- Madmaheswar: 3289 m
- Rudranath: 2286 m.
- Kalpeshwar: 2134 m.
This is the note of a traveller and is being provided as it is..
You can complete details of the author's experience here,from which this information has been taken.
Kalpeshwar
- Kalpeshwar Temple
Helung is 48 km from Gopeshwar on the Chamoli - Joshimath road. Kalpeshwar is a 9 km mountainous trek from Helung and it has a cave temple at an altitude of 8000 ft.The sanctum is preceded by a natural cave passage. Surrounded by thick forests and terraced fields in the Urgam valley, the temple is reached following a 10 kms Long trek. Joshimath to Helong was a brief 13 km, three quarter of an hour bus ride.The only Panch Kedar which is open round the year .
The deity is the locks of Lord Shiva in form of a buffalo and hence the name Jateswar. The paths are very desolate and it would be advisable to return to Helung or Joshimath after visiting the temple and spent the night there.
It is a favourite location of meditating sages. Legend has it that the sage Arghya had performed austerities here and created the nymph, Urvashi. Rishi Durvasa is also believed to have meditated here under the wish-fulfilling tree, Kalpavriksha.
Trek route / Best time: June to October / 170 km circuit / 13 days (moderate). Rishikesh – Kedarnath – Madmaheshwar – Tungnath –Rudranath – Kalpeshwar - Joshimath. It is a trek through dense forest and lush meadows full of colours, passing through a few rustic villages steeped in old culture.
Quick Facts
How to Reach: 11 kms from Helang (trek) however the motor road is under construction . Helong is 10 kms from Joshimath and 53 kms from Gopeshwar.
Altitude: 2200 mts
When to Go: Anytime in the year, preferably September – November
Transport
- Air : Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun, 272 kms.
- Rail : The nearest railhead, Rishikesh, is 255 kms.
- Road : kalpeshwar can be reached up to Helang, 243 kms. On the Rishikesh - Badrinath Road. Buses and taxis are available. From Helang, the 12 kms. Trek is off the main road.