Rudranath Temple, Rudranath

Rudranath Temple is located at an elevation of 2286 m above sea level in Rudranath. The temple, dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva, holds a great religious significance among the Hindus. In the temple, the face of Lord Shiva is worshipped as Neelkantha Mahadeva.

According to mythology, after the war of the Mahabharata, the Pandavas came to the Himalayas to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for their sins. However, Lord Shiva did not wish to meet them and escaped in the form of Nandi Bull. The Pandavas spotted the bull in Guptakashi and tried to catch him but in vain.

Later, Lord Shiva’s body parts were discovered at five different places of the Garhwal region, which are known as Panch Kedar now. The Rudranath Temple stands on the spot where His face was found.

Tourists can reach the temple from Sagar Village and Joshimath by trekking. The route from Joshimath is 45 km long. The temple offers mesmerising views of Hathi Parvat, Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghunti and Trishul to visitors. The holy tanks, namely Surya Kund, Chandra Kund, Tara Kund and Mana Kund are located near the temple.