Kartik Swami Temple Uttarakhand

Dedicated to Lord Shiva's elder son, Kartikeya, Kartik Swami is a temple of mystic ambiance and exquisite views. The popular Hindu temple is perched on a hilltop at an elevation of 3050 m and situated near Kanak Chauri Village on Rudraprayag-Pokhari route in the district of Rudraprayag of the state Uttarakhand. In order to reach the temple, one has to undergo a 3 km thrilling trek that starts from Kanak Chauri Village. The route of the trek is rugged but it assures astonishing verdure to relish the exquisiteness of nature. The religious site in the Garhwal Himalayas that is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya has a strong history behind it. As per Hindu Mythology, Lord Shiva challenged his sons Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya that whoever will first take seven rounds of the universe will have the honor to be worshiped first. Hearing that, Lord Kartikeya headed off to circle the universe on his vehicle, whereas, Lord Ganesha took seven round of his parents, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Impressed by Ganesha, Lord Shiva gave him the privilege of being worshipped first. Resultant, Lord Kartikeya showed his anger on the decision and sacrificed his body and bones to his father as reverence.

It is believed that this whole incident took place here, and thus, the temple is named as Kartik Swami. Lord Kartikeya is also known as Lord Kartik Murugan in South India, where he is believed to have settled later. Apart from being a prominent tourist attraction, Kartik Swami is also renowned for offering the magnificent sunrise and heart-melting sunset views. Evening prayers, chanting of mantras, and maha bhandaras are the major attractions of the temple for tourists. Moreover, the shrine houses an idol of Lord Kartikeya and here few festivals and events like Kartik Poornima and 11-days-long Kailash Yatra are observed with much zeal. Once here, one has the chance to view some top attractions standing in the form of snow-clad Himalayan peaks of Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath Dome, Meru & Sumeru, Chaukhamba Peak, Neelkanth, Dronagiri, Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, and Nanda Devi group of peaks. Apart from the breathtaking views and indescribable feeling, the trek to the temple also offers an opportunity for bird watching, camping, and village tourism.

Best Time to Visit Kartik Swami Temple

Since the temple remains open throughout the year, one can visit it in any season. Despite this fact, summer and winter are considered the ideal time to visit the temple as the monsoon rain disrupts the trek and damage the roads as well.

Summer

The summer season here begins in April and continues till June. The average temperature of the peak in summer varies from 15°C to 20°C. During March and April, the entire witnesses abundance of rhododendron which one can easily get to see on the trekking route. As the months pass
Monsoon

The district of Rudraprayag along with the entire state, experience heavy rainfall during the months of July to September. Heavy rainfall makes trekking very difficult along with the chances of road blockage. In August and September there you will notice rich vegetation. Thus, it is advisable to check the weather conditions before heading out for Kartik Swami temple in monsoon.
Winter

The month of October is the commencement of winter season here which lasts till March. November to January offers the clear and majestic view of snow-clad Himalayan ranges. Moreover, the temperature during these months ranges from 0°C to 10°C. Make sure to wear warm woollen clothes when you visit the temple during winter.

Where to Stay near Kartik Swami Temple?

Vishnuprayag being a small destination have fewer accommodations. Thus, a better place to find a variety of hotels near Vishnuprayag would be in Joshimath. The town offers a plethora of best staying places that range from budget to mid-range and ensures a comfortable and memorable experience.

How to Reach Kartik Swami Temple?

One can access the Kartik Swami Temple through a 3 km trek from Kanak Chauri Village which is at a distance of just 40 km. The Kanak Chauri village is situated on Rudraprayag-Pokhari route for which cabs on hire are available from different parts of the state and Delhi as well. Therefore, roadways are the best way to reach Kanak Chauri from where one has to trek to Kartik Swami Temple.

By Air

The nearest airport from the place is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun which is around 192 km away from the place. One can board a taxi or cab from the airport to reach Rudraprayag. Thereafter, shared jeep from Rudraprayag to Kanak Chauri and finally 3 km trek to the temple.
By Rail

In order to reach the temple through railway network, one has to take a train to either Haridwar or Rishikesh railway station which are the nearest railway stations to Rudraprayag and located at a distance of around 140 km and 165 km respectively. Haridwar Railway Station has better connectivity with major cities in India, and thus, it is advisable to book train tickets for Haridwar. Once you reach the station, hire a cab/taxi to Rudraprayag or directly to Kanak Chauri. After reaching Kanak Chauri, there is a 3 km trek to the temple.
By Road

The temple of Kartik Swami is very well-connected to roads. Thus, one can hire a cab or taxi to Kanak Chauri. Interstate buses from ISBT Anand Vihar, Delhi to Rudraprayag, Rishikesh and Srinagar are also available. Once you reach Kanak Chauri, you'll have to undergo a 3 km trek in order to reach Kartik Swami Temple.