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Gaurikund
Location
Rudraprayag district in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state, India.
Distance
National Capital Delhi: 413 km State Capital Dehradun: 230 km
Altitude
1,982 meters (6,502 feet) above sea level.
Best Season To Visit
May to June and September to October
Facts About Gaurikund
Gaurikund holds immense religious significance in Hinduism due to its association with the pilgrimage to Kedarnath, one of the Char Dham destinations.
Gaurikund is the starting point for the trek to Kedarnath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Pilgrims begin their journey to Kedarnath from Gaurikund, and the trek is about 16 kilometers long. It is a significant pilgrimage route in the Char Dham Yatra, which involves visiting four sacred shrines in Uttarakhand.
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Gaurikund :- Famous Visiting Places
1. Kedarnath Temple
This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet). Devotees undertake a rigorous trek from Gaurikund to reach the temple, which holds immense religious significance.
2. Gauri Kund
This natural thermal spring is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati (Gauri) performed penance to win Lord Shiva's heart and hence the name. Pilgrims take a ritualistic dip in the holy waters of Gauri Kund before commencing their journey to Kedarnath Temple.
3. Sonprayag
Located about 5 kilometers from Gaurikund, Sonprayag is the confluence of the Mandakini and Basuki rivers. It holds religious significance, and many pilgrims halt here during their journey to Kedarnath.
4. Triyuginarayan Temple
Situated around 30 kilometers from Gaurikund, this ancient temple is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. The temple is known for its eternal flame that has been burning continuously for centuries.
5. Chopta
Often referred to as the 'Mini Switzerland of India', Chopta is a picturesque hill station located about 40 kilometers from Gaurikund. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and is a popular trekking destination.
6. Tungnath Temple
Located near Chopta, Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world and is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit. It is situated at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
7. Deoria Tal
This serene lake is located about 80 kilometers from Gaurikund and is surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped mountains. It is a popular trekking destination and offers stunning views of Chaukhamba peaks.
How to Reach
By Road
To reach Gaurikund, the starting point for the trek to Kedarnath Temple, you can use various modes of transportation. Here's how to reach Gaurikund: 1. From Haridwar or Rishikesh: Gaurikund is well-connected by road from Haridwar and Rishikesh. - You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Haridwar or Rishikesh to reach Gaurikund. The journey takes approximately 7 to 9 hours by road. 2. From Dehradun or Delhi: If you're traveling from Dehradun or Delhi, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Gaurikund via Rishikesh or Haridwar. - The journey from Dehradun to Gaurikund takes approximately 8 to 10 hours by road, while from Delhi, it takes around 12 to 14 hours.
By Train
1. Nearest Railway Station: The nearest major railway station to Gaurikund is Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH) in Uttarakhand. - From Rishikesh Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund. The journey takes approximately 7 to 9 hours by road.
By Air
1. Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to Gaurikund is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. - From Dehradun Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund. The journey takes approximately 8 to 10 hours by road.
Climate & Weather
summer
Summer (April to June): Gaurikund experiences a pleasant summer with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This season is ideal for pilgrims and trekkers heading to Kedarnath, as the weather is clear and suitable for the journey. The area is lush with greenery, and the pleasant temperatures make it a comfortable time to visit.
monsoon
Monsoon (July to September): During the monsoon season, Gaurikund receives heavy rainfall, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C. The region becomes lush and vibrant, but the heavy rains can lead to slippery paths and occasional landslides. It is advisable to check weather conditions before planning a visit, as the heavy rains can disrupt travel.
autumn
Autumn (October to November): Autumn in Gaurikund is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The postmonsoon period brings clear skies and crisp air, making it an ideal time for trekking and visiting the area. The landscape is refreshed and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
winter
Winter (December to February): Winters in Gaurikund are cold, with temperatures dropping to 0°C to 10°C. The region can experience light snowfall, and the weather can be harsh for those not prepared for the cold. It’s advisable to carry warm clothing and check road conditions before traveling, as heavy snowfall can sometimes disrupt access to the area.
Hotels Around Gaurikund
Since Gaurikund primarily serves as the base camp for pilgrims trekking to Kedarnath Temple and is a small town, the accommodation options directly in Gaurikund itself are limited. However, there are some lodging options available in nearby areas. Here are a few options for hotels and guesthouses in or near Gaurikund:
1. Sonprayag: Sonprayag is the last motorable point before Gaurikund and offers some accommodation options. However, facilities may be basic. Some options include Sonprayag Tourist Rest House and private guesthouses.
2. Rudraprayag: Rudraprayag is a town located about 40 kilometers from Gaurikund and offers a wider range of accommodation options. You can find hotels, guesthouses, and lodges in Rudraprayag such as Hotel Mandakini, Hotel Sachin International, and GMVN Tourist Rest House.
3. Guptkashi: Guptkashi is another town located approximately 30 kilometers from Gaurikund and offers accommodation options for travelers. Some options include Hotel Kailash, GMVN Tourist Bungalow, and guesthouses.
4. Sitapur: Sitapur is located about 20 kilometers from Gaurikund and serves as another base for pilgrims visiting Kedarnath Temple. You can find a few budget hotels and guesthouses in Sitapur.
5. Phata: Phata is a small village located approximately 13 kilometers from Gaurikund and offers limited accommodation options such as guesthouses and lodges.
6. Chopta: Chopta, often called the "Mini Switzerland of India," is a picturesque hill station located about 40 kilometers from Gaurikund. While accommodations in Chopta may be limited, you can find some guesthouses and campsites offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
Additionally, during the peak pilgrimage season, temporary tented accommodations may be set up in Gaurikund and surrounding areas to accommodate the influx of pilgrims. It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your stay.: