The Panch Kedar temples are five sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. Each temple is situated at a significant altitude in the Himalayan mountain range, ranging from moderate to high elevations, making the pilgrimage to these temples also a challenging trekking adventure.
Heights of the Panch Kedar Temples
- Kedarnath Temple: The highest and most famous among the five Panch Kedar temples, Kedarnath is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level. It is located near the Chorabari Glacier, beside the Mandakini River.
- Tungnath Temple: Known as the highest Shiva temple in the world, Tungnath stands at about 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) above sea level. It is located near Chopta and is often visited along with the Chandrashila peak trek.
- Rudranath Temple: Rudranath is situated at a height of around 2,286 meters (7,500 feet) in the dense forests of Garhwal. This temple is known for its serene and remote location, requiring a moderately challenging trek.
- Madhyamaheshwar Temple: Located at nearly 3,490 meters (11,450 feet), Madhyamaheshwar is nestled in a deep Himalayan valley. The temple is surrounded by forested slopes and alpine meadows.
- Kalpeshwar Temple: The lowest among the Panch Kedar temples, Kalpeshwar is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,200 meters (7,217 feet). This temple is unique as it remains open year-round due to its relatively moderate elevation.
Significance of the Altitudes
The high altitude of these temples means that pilgrims need to be physically prepared for the trek, as the air becomes thinner with elevation, making physical exertion tougher. The temples like Kedarnath, Tungnath, and Madhyamaheshwar involve trekking at altitudes above 3,400 meters, where acclimatization is important. Kalpeshwar, being accessible year-round and lying at a lower elevation, is easier to visit.
These Himalayan altitudes enhance the serene, spiritual experience by situating the devotees near snow-capped peaks, glacial streams, and dense forests—integrating nature’s grandeur with devotion.
Summary
In summary, the Panch Kedar temples range from approximately 2,200 meters to 3,680 meters in height:
| Temple | Altitude (meters) | Altitude (feet) |
|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath | 3,583 | 11,755 |
| Tungnath | 3,680 | 12,073 |
| Rudranath | 2,286 | 7,500 |
| Madhyamaheshwar | 3,490 | 11,450 |
| Kalpeshwar | 2,200 | 7,217 |
These altitudes signify not only the physical challenge involved in the pilgrimage but also the spiritual elevation that devotees experience by visiting these divine abodes amidst the majestic Himalayas.