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Guptkashi, also known as the temple town, is a famous tourist destination located at a distance of 47 km from the well-known town of Kedarnath. Blessed with enchanting natural beauty including the snow-capped mountains of Chaukhamba and breathtaking backdrops, Guptkashi sits at an elevation of 1319 m above sea level. Situated on the way to Kedarnath, the town serves as a perfect halt for those travelling to Kedarnath.
Guptkashi is renowned for being a holy home to the age-old ancient temples Vishwanath Temple and Ardhnareswar Temple. The Ardhnareshwar Temple enshrines the idol of Lord Shiva in the form of half man and half woman. The Vishwanath Temple is counted as one of the many incarnations of Lord Shiva. According to folklore, this is the same destination where Lord Shiva hid himself for a period of time. Lord Shiva also hid in Kedarnath in the form of a bull. Lord Shiva, in an attempt to avoid the encounter with the Pandavas, dived into the ground.
The hump of the bull remained on the surface, the arm of the Lord was found in Tungnath, the face in Rudranath, nabhi or belly button in Madmaheshwar, and the head was found in Kalpeshwar. All these places became noted pilgrimage centres in the later years. Some of the nearby attractions include Gandhi Sarovar situated at a distance of 2 km and Vasuki Tal, which is just 8 km from Kedarnath.
Famous Places in and around Guptakashi
Gorgeous landscapes, ancient temples, an abundance of magnolia flower trees, and nature walks all together define the beauty of Guptakashi. There are many famous places to visit in and around Guptakashi.
Manikarnik Kund located here is another popular destination located within the complex of Vishwanath temple. The resided Shiva Linga here takes bath from two sources- Ganesha's head and cow's head. It is believed that both sources receive the water from two holy rivers i.e. River Ganga and River Yamuna consecutively.
Gaurikund, located on the banks of the River Mandakini, is the starting point from where the Kedarnath Yatra begins. Considered to be the gateway to spirituality and salvation, Gaurikund has religious significance among the devotees. Besides, Located at an altitude of about 2,000 meters above sea level, it is also known for its trekking routes.
Also, Guptakashi is endowed with lush greenery, sparking steams, and attractive trekking trails. Though many areas and trekking trails got hit by the flood tragedy faced by the place in 2013, the place has still got the charm and even now holds some safe ways to explore.
Staying Option in and around Gaurikund
There are many hotels, Dharamshala, and guest houses near Gaurikund serving as accommodations for tourists.
How to Reach Guptakashi
By Flight
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 190 km away from Gaurikund. From there a hired taxi can take you to Guptakashi in around 6 hrs. Phata, the helipad for helicopter services to Kedarnath, is situated around 14 km away from Guptakashi
By Train
The nearest railhead to Guptkasi is Rishikesh which is about 168 km away from the place. Tourists can reach Guptakasi by cab within 5 and a half hours from Rishikesh.
By Road
Guptkashi is connected by motorable roads to all the major towns and cities.
Guptakashi weather
The period between the months of May and October is ideal for visiting Kedarnath, as the temperature remains pleasant during this time. The natives of the region vacate Kedarnath during winters owing to heavy snow.
