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Kalpeshwar
Location
Chamoli district in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state, India.
Distance
National Capital Delhi: 490 km State Capital Dehradun: 294 km
Altitude
2,134 meters (7,001 feet) above sea level.
Best Season To Visit
March to June and September to November
Facts About Kalpeshwar
Kalpeshwar is a sacred pilgrimage site and one of the Panch Kedar temples in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Kalpeshwar is dedicated to Lord Shiva, amidst the stunning beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Kalpeshwar is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, which includes five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, each associated with different body parts of the divine manifestation. Kalpeshwar is the temple associated with Lord Shiva's hair.
The pilgrimage to Kalpeshwar is considered a bit less challenging compared to some of the other Panch Kedar temples. However, it still involves a trek of about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from a village called Helang. The trek takes you through picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and serene surroundings.
The main attraction at Kalpeshwar is the ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is nestled in a cave, and its unique feature is that it houses a matted tangle of hair, believed to be one of Lord Shiva's manifestations. The temple holds significant religious importance for devotees of Lord Shiva and attracts pilgrims seeking blessings and spiritual experiences.
Kalpeshwar is not just a religious destination; it also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and the natural beauty of the region. The tranquil ambiance and the spiritual aura of the temple make it an ideal place for meditation and seeking inner peace.
The pilgrimage to Kalpeshwar is usually undertaken during the summer months, from May to October, when the weather is favorable for trekking. It is a spiritually enriching journey that provides a chance to connect with nature and experience the divinity of the Himalayas.
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Kalpeshwar :- Famous Visiting Places
1. Kalpeshwar Temple
The primary attraction of Kalpeshwar is the ancient Kalpeshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the five sacred temples of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit in Uttarakhand. The temple is nestled amidst serene surroundings and is believed to be associated with the Mahabharata legend.
2. Tungnath Temple
Approximately 3 kilometers from Kalpeshwar lies the Tungnath Temple, which is the highest Shiva temple in the world and an essential part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage. It is located at an altitude of about 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.
3. Deoria Tal
Deoria Tal is a pristine lake located about 20 kilometers from Kalpeshwar. It is known for its tranquil ambiance and the reflection of snow-capped peaks in its crystal-clear waters. The trek to Deoria Tal offers stunning views of Chaukhamba peaks and is popular among nature lovers and trekkers.
4. Chopta
Often referred to as the 'Mini Switzerland of India', Chopta is a picturesque hill station located around 30 kilometers from Kalpeshwar. It serves as the base camp for treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila Peak. Chopta is adorned with lush meadows, dense forests, and magnificent views of the Himalayas.
5. Chandrashila Peak
Chandrashila, meaning 'Moon Rock', is a summit located near Tungnath Temple. It is famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks. The trek to Chandrashila is relatively moderate and offers breathtaking vistas.
6. Ukhimath
Ukhimath is a small town located about 44 kilometers from Kalpeshwar. It is known for its temples, including the Omkareshwar Temple and the Kedarnath Temple, where the idols from Kedarnath Temple are moved during the winter months.
7. Kedarnath Temple
Although located at a considerable distance from Kalpeshwar, the revered Kedarnath Temple is an essential pilgrimage site for Hindus and can be visited as part of a longer journey. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
How to Reach
By Road
Reaching Kalpeshwar involves some travel effort due to its secluded location, here are the common routes to reach the area: Kalpeshwar is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in Uttarakhand. 1. From Delhi: - Take a bus or drive to Haridwar or Rishikesh, which are major transit points in Uttarakhand. - From Haridwar or Rishikesh, proceed to Chamoli by bus or taxi. - From Chamoli, continue the journey to Kalpeshwar by taxi or local transport. 2. From Dehradun or Rishikesh: - Direct buses or shared taxis are available from Dehradun or Rishikesh to Chamoli. - From Chamoli, hire a taxi or use local transport to reach Kalpeshwar. It's advisable to plan your journey in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as transportation options may be limited. - Roads in the hilly regions can be narrow and winding, so it's essential to travel cautiously, especially during monsoon or winter seasons when there might be landslides or snow. - Private taxis or shared jeeps are commonly used for travel within the region, and arrangements can be made at transit points like Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Chamoli.
By Train
The nearest major railway station to Kalpeshwar is Rishikesh Railway Station. 1. From Rishikesh: - Take a taxi or a bus from Rishikesh to Chamoli. - From Chamoli, proceed to Kalpeshwar by taxi or local transport.
By Air
The nearest airport to Kalpeshwar is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. 1. From Dehradun: - Take a taxi or a bus from Dehradun to reach Chamoli, the district headquarters. - From Chamoli, hire a taxi or use local transport to reach Kalpeshwar. The road journey from Chamoli to Kalpeshwar takes several hours.
Climate & Weather
summer
Summer (April to June): Kalpeshwar experiences a cool summer, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The weather is ideal for trekking to the Kalpeshwar Temple and exploring the natural beauty of the region. 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 8°C and 15°C. The trekking trails become slippery and challenging, and landslides are common. The region becomes lush and green, though the weather can be unpredictable.
autumn
Autumn (October to November): Autumn is cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. The postmonso
winter
Winter (December to February): Winters in Kalpeshwar are harsh, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. The region experiences heavy snowfall, making it a winter wonderland. The trek to the temple becomes challenging due to the snow, and warm clothing is essential.
Hotels Around Kalpeshwar
It may not have many hotels or accommodation options directly within the village itself. However, there might be some guesthouses, homestays, or basic lodges in nearby towns or villages. Here are a few options you can consider:
1. GMVN Tourist Rest House, Rudraprayag: While not exactly near Kalpeshwar, GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) operates several tourist rest houses in Uttarakhand. Rudraprayag is one of the nearby towns where you might find accommodation options.
2. Chamoli Town: Chamoli, the district headquarters, is located relatively close to Kalpeshwar. You might find some budget hotels or guesthouses in Chamoli town.
3. Ukhimath: Ukhimath is another town nearby and serves as a base for travelers visiting Kedarnath. It's possible that you could find accommodation options in Ukhimath, which is approximately 40 kilometers from Kalpeshwar.
4. Joshimath: Joshimath is a larger town located further away but still within reasonable driving distance from Kalpeshwar. It's a popular stopover for travelers heading to Badrinath. You're more likely to find a wider range of accommodation options in Joshimath compared to smaller villages.
5. Homestays: Consider staying in a homestay for a more authentic experience. Local families sometimes offer accommodation to travelers, providing a glimpse into the local way of life and hospitality.
It's essential to inquire about accommodation options in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or religious festivals when availability may be limited. Additionally, keep in mind that facilities in these accommodations may vary, and it's advisable to manage expectations, especially in remote areas like Kalpeshwar.: