Chamoli, Uttarakhand
Main God
Lord Shiva
Timings
Dawn to dusk
Location
Chamoli
Type
REGIONAL
Begin the 18-20 km trek from Sagar village with a hired guide. Day 1: Trek to Lyuti Bugyal (12 km). Day 2: Continue to Rudranath via Panar Bugyal and Naila Pass. The trail passes through some of the most pristine alpine landscapes in the Himalayas.
Camp at the stunning high-altitude meadows (bugyals) en route. Lyuti and Panar Bugyals are vast carpets of wildflowers in summer with panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Ghunti peaks.
Reach the natural rock temple at 3,559m where Lord Shiva's face (Mukh) is worshipped as a naturally formed stone. The temple is small and ancient, set on a ridge with dramatic mountain views. A priest from Gopeshwar maintains the shrine during season.
Visit the sacred kunds (pools) near the temple - Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, and Tara Kund are believed to be celestial bathing spots. The clear alpine pools set among the rocks add to the mystical experience.
Rudranath, Chamoli, Uttarakhand 246443
By Bus
Buses from Rishikesh to Gopeshwar (200 km, 8-9 hours). From Gopeshwar, taxi to Sagar village (5 km), the trek starting point.
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (235 km to Sagar village, the trek base).
By Rail
Rishikesh Railway Station (218 km to Sagar).
trekInfo
18-20 km trek from Sagar village to Rudranath (2-3 days recommended). The trail passes through dense forests, alpine meadows (bugyals), and rocky terrain. Considered the most difficult of all Panch Kedar treks. Route: Sagar - Lyuti Bugyal - Panar Bugyal - Naila Pass - Rudranath. Camping required (no guesthouses on the trail). Mandatory to hire a local guide - the trail is poorly marked in sections.
Local Transport
Shared taxis from Gopeshwar to Sagar village. Beyond Sagar, everything is on foot. Local guides are essential.
