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Guptakashi
Location
Rudraprayag district in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state, India.
Distance
National Capital Delhi: 411 km State Capital Dehradun: 243 km
Altitude
1,319 meters (4,327 feet) above sea level.
Best Season To Visit
March to June and September to November
Facts About Guptakashi
Guptakashi is a small town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. Guptakashi is known for its religious significance and its proximity to several prominent pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand.
Guptakashi is an important religious destination and a starting point for pilgrimages to Kedarnath. It offers a serene and spiritual ambiance, making it a significant place for devotees and spiritual seekers. The town also serves as a convenient base for exploring the nearby attractions and natural beauty of Uttarakhand.
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Guptakashi :- Famous Visiting Places
1. Vishwanath Temple
Guptakashi is famous for the ancient Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is considered as an important place of worship and is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva resided after eluding the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era. The temple attracts devotees from all over the country, especially during the holy month of Shravan.
2. Ardhanarishvara Temple
Another significant temple in Guptakashi is the Ardhanarishvara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in their composite form. The temple showcases the unique representation of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati as a single divine entity.
3. Kedarnath Trek
Guptakashi serves as the base for the popular trek to Kedarnath, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. The trek to Kedarnath begins from Gaurikund, which is approximately 30 kilometers from Guptakashi. Many pilgrims stay in Guptakashi before embarking on the trek to Kedarnath.
4. Chopta
Guptakashi is also a gateway to Chopta, a scenic hill station known for its natural beauty and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Chopta is located approximately 40 kilometers from Guptakashi and is a popular destination for trekking and enjoying the serenity of nature.
How to Reach
By Road
To reach Guptakashi, you have several transportation options depending on your starting point. Here's how you can reach Guptakashi: Guptakashi is well-connected by motorable roads, and regular bus services and taxis are available from nearby cities and towns. The town is accessible from cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, Rudraprayag, and Dehradun. You can also drive to Guptakashi using your own vehicle or hire a taxi. The road journey offers scenic views of the Himalayas and takes approximately 9-10 hours from Delhi, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Please note that the last stretch of the road to Guptakashi from the town of Rudraprayag is steep and narrow, so caution should be exercised while driving. During the winter season, heavy snowfall may block the roads, so it's advisable to check the weather conditions and road accessibility before planning your visit.
By Train
The nearest major railway station to Guptakashi is Rishikesh Railway Station, which is approximately 168 kilometers (104 miles) away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Guptakashi. The road journey from Rishikesh to Guptakashi takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the specific route and traffic conditions.
By Air
The nearest airport to Guptakashi is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 189 kilometers (118 miles) away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-arranged cab to Guptakashi. The journey by road from Dehradun to Guptakashi takes around 7-8 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Once you reach Guptakashi, you can explore the town's religious significance, visit the Vishwanath Temple and Ardhanarishvara Temple, and continue your pilgrimage to Kedarnath. Guptakashi's location amidst the scenic beauty of Uttarakhand makes it an important spiritual destination and a starting point for many devotees.
Climate & Weather
summer
Summer (April to June): Guptakashi experiences a mild summer, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time for the pilgrimage and exploring nearby attractions. The clear skies offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
monsoon
Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall, with temperatures between 12°C and 20°C. The region becomes lush and green, but the rains can make the trekking trails slippery and challenging. Landslides are also common in this season.
autumn
Autumn (October to November): Autumn is cool, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C. The skies are clear, and the landscape is picturesque, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The postmonsoon freshness enhances the beauty of the region.
winter
Winter (December to February): Winters in Guptakashi are cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C. Snowfall is common, and the region turns into a winter wonderland. The town serves as a base for winter treks, and warm clothing is essential.
Hotels Around Guptakashi
There are several hotels and accommodations available in Guptakashi to suit various budgets and preferences. Here are a few options:
1. Hotel Shiv Shakti: Located in the heart of Guptakashi, Hotel Shiv Shakti offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities. The hotel provides a restaurant, room service, and Wi-Fi. It is known for its warm hospitality and convenient location.
2. Camp Nirvana Guptkashi: Situated amidst nature, Camp Nirvana Guptkashi offers tent accommodations with basic facilities. The camp provides a dining area, bonfire arrangements, and outdoor seating areas. It is a popular choice for those seeking a camping experience close to nature.
3. Hotel Mandakini: This hotel in Guptakashi offers well-furnished rooms with modern amenities. The hotel features a restaurant, a garden, and a terrace where guests can relax and enjoy the serene ambiance. It is known for its hospitality and convenient facilities.
4. Hotel Shubham: Located in Guptakashi, Hotel Shubham offers comfortable rooms with essential amenities. The hotel provides a restaurant, room service, and free Wi-Fi. It is a popular choice for pilgrims visiting the nearby Kedarnath Temple.
5. GMVN Tourist Bungalow: This government-run guest house is situated in Guptakashi and offers clean and comfortable rooms. The guest house provides basic amenities and a restaurant serving local cuisine. It is known for its budget-friendly rates and convenient location.
It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season and pilgrimage season, to ensure availability. You can check online travel websites, hotel booking platforms, or contact the hotels directly for more information, availability, and reservations based on your specific requirements and budget.: