Region
Uttarakhand
Trek Grade
Moderate
Trek Distance
~6 km
Highest Altitude
~2,200 m
Overview
The Kalpeshwar Trek takes you to the sacred Kalpeshwar Temple, the fifth and final temple in the Panch Kedar circuit, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the serene Urgam Valley of Chamoli district, this temple is unique because it is accessible almost throughout the year, unlike other Panch Kedar shrines. At Kalpeshwar, Lord Shiva is worshipped in his Jata (matted hair) form. The trek is short and easy, making it ideal for beginners and spiritual seekers, while also offering scenic Himalayan views, lush forests, and apple orchards.
Short Itinerary
Day 1: Rishikesh/Haridwar to Helang (Drive) → Urgam Village (Short Drive)
Day 2: Urgam Village to Kalpeshwar Temple (Trek, ~3 km one way), Darshan and return to Urgam
Day 3: Urgam to Helang (Drive) → Rishikesh/Haridwar (Drive back)
Detailed Itinerary
- Start your journey early morning from Rishikesh/Haridwar.
- Drive along the scenic Alaknanda River, passing through towns like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Joshimath.
- Reach Helang (near Joshimath) by evening. From here, take a short drive to Urgam Village, the base for the Kalpeshwar Trek.
- Stay overnight in a guesthouse/homestay at Urgam amidst apple orchards and local Garhwali culture.
- After breakfast, start the short trek (approx. 3 km one way) from Urgam to Kalpeshwar Temple.
- Walk through lush forests, terraced fields, and apple orchards, with panoramic views of Himalayan peaks.
- Reach the sacred Kalpeshwar Temple (2,200 m), where Lord Shiva is worshipped in his Jata (matted hair) form.
- Spend time in meditation and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Trek back to Urgam Village by evening for overnight stay.
- After breakfast, drive back from Urgam to Helang.
- Continue the long return drive to Rishikesh/Haridwar, marking the end of the trek.
Inclusions – Everything We Take Care Of
- Accommodation during the trek (camps/guesthouses)
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee) during the trek
- Experienced trek leader and local guide
- Trek permits and entry fees
- First aid and medical kit
- Support staff for trek assistance
Exclusions – What’s Not Included?
- Transport from Haridwar/Rishikesh to destination (can be arranged on request)
- Personal expenses (snacks, bottled water, tips, etc.)
- Any kind of travel insurance
- Personal trekking gear (backpacks, trekking poles, jackets, etc.)
- Emergency evacuation or medical expenses
- Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions”
FAQs – We’ve Got All Your Questions Covered!
It is an easy trek, suitable for beginners, families, and even senior citizens with basic fitness.
Unlike other Panch Kedar shrines, Kalpeshwar is open throughout the year, but the best months are April–June and September–November for pleasant weather.
Yes, basic guesthouses and homestays are available in Urgam Village.
The trek starts from Urgam Village, which is a short drive from Helang (on the Badrinath highway). Helang is accessible by road from Rishikesh/Haridwar.
Yes, Kalpeshwar is often combined with visits to Joshimath, Auli, or the other Panch Kedar temples for an extended spiritual journey.
No prior trekking experience is required. This trek is suitable for first-timers.
2 sep to 30 sep
Tour Details
- Trek Distance: ~6 km (round trip)
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Highest Altitude: ~2,200 m (Kalpeshwar Temple)
- Trek Grade: Easy (suitable for beginners and families)
- Region: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand (Urgam Valley, near Joshimath)
Tour Highlights
- Visit Kalpeshwar Temple, the fifth and final shrine of the Panch Kedar circuit.
- Unique darshan of Lord Shiva in the form of Jata (matted hair).
- Accessible throughout the year, unlike most Panch Kedar temples.
- Scenic trek through apple orchards, terraced fields, and lush green forests.
- Stunning Himalayan views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Dunagiri peaks.
- Experience the peaceful and spiritual ambiance of the Urgam Valley.
Route & Region
- Route: Rishikesh/Haridwar → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Helang → Urgam Village → Kalpeshwar Temple
- Region: Urgam Valley, Chamoli District, Uttarakhand