Kalpeshwar Yatra Guide: Route, Stay, Darshan, and Tips

Category: Yatra Guide | Updated: September 2025

The Kalpeshwar Yatra is a sacred journey to the Kalpeshwar Temple, the fifth and final shrine of the Panch Kedar temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located at an altitude of 2,200 meters in the Urgam Valley of Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, Kalpeshwar is unique because it is the only Panch Kedar temple open throughout the year. Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped in his jata (matted hair) form, symbolizing divine strength and eternity.

How to Register for Kalpeshwar Yatra

• Registration for Panch Kedar Yatra is required and can be done via the Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra official portal.
• Carry valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, etc.).
• Offline registration counters are available at Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Joshimath.

How to Reach Kalpeshwar

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 272 km away.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 255 km from Urgam.
• By Road: Buses and taxis are available up to Helang, from where a 10 km trek leads to Kalpeshwar through the scenic Urgam Valley.

Trek & Route Options

• Helang → Urgam Village → Kalpeshwar Temple: A short 10 km trek along terraced fields, apple orchards, and pine forests.
• Trek difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for devotees of all ages.
• Best season: Accessible throughout the year, but the ideal months are April–June and September–November.

Where to Stay

• Joshimath & Helang: Hotels, guest houses, and GMVN lodges available.
• Urgam Village: Homestays, basic lodges, and small guest houses.
• Near Temple: Limited dharamshalas and ashrams for devotees.

Darshan Timings & Tips

• The temple is open year-round, making it different from other Panch Kedar temples that close in winter.
• Carry light woolens, trekking shoes, torch, and basic medicines.
• Respect local traditions and keep the valley clean.
• Pilgrims can also explore nearby attractions like Kalp Ganga River and Apple Orchards of Urgam Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Kalpeshwar Temple open in winter?
Yes, it is the only Panch Kedar temple open throughout the year.

2. How difficult is the trek to Kalpeshwar?
It’s a relatively easy trek of 10 km, suitable for most devotees, including elderly pilgrims.

3. What is Kalpeshwar Temple famous for?
It is the place where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of his jata (matted hair).

👉 For official updates, visit the Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra portal or connect with local travel operators.