About Rudranath
Rudranath is the third of the Panch Kedar temples, where Lord Shiva's face — a Swayambhu (self-manifested) Shivalinga with a pious human face — is worshipped. This is probably the only Shiva manifestation with a face rather than the usual lingam form. Perched at 2,286 metres, about 23 km from Gopeshwar, the temple is reached through a trek overlookingmajestic Hathi Parvat, Nanda Devi peak, Nanda Ghunti and Trishuli Parvat.
The Angry Face of Lord Shiva
The Swayambhu Shivalinga at Rudranath has a pious human face measuring 3 feet from chin to locks, from which silent blessings shower upon devotees. As Lord Shiva is depicted angry here (Rudra form), the priests keep his face covered with a golden cover, opening it only during prayer times. Droplets of water fall from a naturally formed ledge above the lingam. The sanctum is damp and cold, with small puddles throughout — the priests worship standing on wooden planks as no permanent platform exists.
Vaitarani Kund and Vishnu Statue
About 1–2 km from the temple stands a magnificent 5×5 feet statue of Lord Vishnu reclined on Sheshnag, with a deity on a bloomed lotus flower emerging from his navel — symbolising Lord Brahma's emergence. Alongside is a natural spring. The mythological Vaitarani river flows behind the temple, and bathing here is believed to help achieve salvation. Several holy kunds (tanks) surround the temple: Surya Kund, Chandra Kund and Tara Kund.
How to Reach Rudranath
- By road to Gopeshwar or Mandal Chatti
- From Sagar village: 20 km trek to the temple
- Alternative: From Joshimath (45 km trek)
- Guides, dolis and ponies available
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun
Nearby Attractions
- Anusuya Devi Temple (3 km from Rudranath — Gupta period inscriptions)
- Vaitarani Kund
- Vishnu reclining on Sheshnag statue
- 6-feet tall saffron Lord Ganesha (single-piece rock)
- Nayla Pass (panoramic views)
- Narada Kund (natural spring)
Char Dham Helicopter Connection
Rudranath is one of the five Panch Kedar temples surrounding the main Kedarnath shrine. After completing your Char Dham helicopter pilgrimage with Saffron Chariot, dedicated trekkers can extend their journey to visit Rudranath and the other Panch Kedar temples.
View Helicopter Packages →