Kunjapuri Temple Trek - A Spiritual Trek near Rishikesh
Kunjapuri Temple Trek Overview:
Kunjapuri Temple is located near Rishikesh at an altitude of 1676 m (5500 ft). The Spiritual Seekers who are only interested in having the darshan of the sacred Kunjapuri temple choose to go there by their vehicle. However, they will still have to trek at least 80 steep steps to reach the Kunjapuri Temple. On the other hand, the Adventure and Nature lovers looking for a thrilling adventure and adrenaline rush opt to go there by trekking. Located very near Rishikesh (30 km) and Tapovan (25 km), the Kunjapuri Temple Trek is getting popular as one of the best options for a one-day hike and short treks near Rishikesh.
The Kunjapuri Temple trek is famous among the trekkers because of its spectacular Sunrise Views. From the Kunjapuri Temple, one can see some of the most famous mountain peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas like Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, Gangotri, and Chaukhamba. Those who have seen the magnificent sunrise from the Kunjapuri temple will never be able to forget the divine beauty of it.
Moreover, in this trek you will walk through some beautiful trails in lush green forests and also be able to see some beautiful hidden waterfalls...though we will talk about it in detail later on...
Kujapuri Temple History:
Kunjapuri Temple is among the 52 Shaktipeeths in Uttarakhand. In Hindu religion, the Shaktipeeths are considered as supremely powerful places on earth where the divine feminine energy is worshipped. As per the ancient Hindu scriptures, when Lord Shiva was taking his wife, Sati, back to Kailas, who sacrificed her life in the yagna organized by her father Daksh, Lord Vishnu in order to save the universe from Lord Shiva's fierce anger, cut Sati's body into 52 parts with his Sudarshan Chakra. All these 52 parts fell into different places. These 52 sacred places are known as Shaktipeeths. Where Goddess Sati's chest fell, that place is known as Kunjapuri. The Kunjapuri temple is said to be constructed by Bhagavan Adi Shankaracharya.
This pastime may cause feelings of fear and bizarreness to those who are not familiar with the ancient Hindu Scriptures. They must know that there are some hidden meanings behind this which can only be understood by the mystics.
Kunjapuri Temple Trek:
Kunjapuri Temple Trek starts from Tapovan near Rishikesh. However, as per your convenience, you can choose from any of the 3 itineraries mentioned below.
i) One-Day Hike to Kunjapuri Temple:
One Day Hike to Kunjapuri Temple starts from Tapovan. It is a 9 km steep climb to Kunjapuri Temple which will take around 5-6 hrs to complete. You will pass through a beautiful Secret Waterfall and Badhra Village. You can spend some time at the temple, pay homage to Devi, enjoy the spectacular beauty of the surroundings, and then descend back to Tapovan.
The return trek is of 12 km. That will be an easy descent through beautiful forest trails. On the way, you will encounter Neer Waterfall. If time allows, you can enjoy bathing in it. Passing by the Dharkot village, you will arrive back in Tapovan. This whole trek will require 1 day to be completed.
ii) Drive to Kunjapuri Temple and Descend by Trek:
Following this program, you will start your journey early in the morning from Rishikesh/Tapovan and reach Kunjapuri to enjoy the spectacular sunrise views from there. Spend some time in the Kunjapuri Temple premises; practice Yoga/Meditation and start descending to Tapovan taking a forest trail. It will be a 12-13 km easy descent. Most trekkers opt for this plan since it enables them to witness the beautiful sunrise as well as enjoy the beautiful trek.
iii) Road trip to Kunjapuri Temple:
This is the easiest option for those who don't want to bother themselves with a trek. Simply, get a cab from Rishikesh and drive to Kunjapuri temple early in the morning before Sunrise. Upon reaching there, enjoy the sight of the divine Himalayan Range at sunrise. After spending some time at the Kunjapuri Temple, board the vehicle and leave for Rishikesh.
Although you are traveling by car, you can skip the stair climbing and descending part. In order to reach the temple, you have to climb 80 stairs which you may find a little steeper.
Kunjapuri Temple Trek Route:
Rishikesh/Tapovan - Secret Waterfall - Badhera Village - Barkot Village - Kunjapuri Temple - Pater Village - Dharkot Village - Neer Waterfall - Tapovan/Rishikesh.
As mentioned above, the Kunjapuri Temple trek route will pass through lush green Himalayan forests and remote Himalayan Villages. It is a complete trek in itself. You will be able to enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature and also observe the lifestyle of the villagers who live in these remote Himalayan villages.
Places to visit near Kunjapuri Temple:
While trekking to the Kunjapuri Temple, you will come across many beautiful and serene places where you can spend some moments of solitude in the lap of the Himalayas.
i) Secret Waterfall:
If you opt to reach the Kunjapuri temple by trekking, on the way, you will come across a beautiful waterfall known as Secret Waterfall. A very unique name for a waterfall, isn't it? It is called Secret Waterfall because not many people know about it, and for many years it remained hidden.
ii) Mahadev Cave/Mahadev Gufa:
In the forests of Rishikesh, there are many known and unknown caves that are/were used by Yogis to get isolated from the world and practice meditation. Mahadev Cave or Mahadev Gufa is a mysterious cave located 1 km away from the secret forest. From the ceiling of the cave, water continuously drips on the Shivalinga.
However, the trail leading to the Mahadev Gufa always remains covered with bushes and it is really difficult to reach there. Only with the help of an experienced guide can you reach there.
iii) Neer Waterfall:
Neer Waterfall is considered to be the biggest waterfall in Rishikesh. Trekkers love to bathe in the Neer Waterfall during their return trek. You can take a dip into a natural pool beneath the Neer waterfall. The chilled water will take away all your exhaustion.
iv) Dharkot and Barkot Villages:
Dharkot and Barkot villages are some of the remote mountain villages that you will come across while doing the Kunjapuri Temple Trek. There, you will be able to observe the lifestyle of the villagers, and their unique homes made of stones and wood. You will be surprised to see that despite living with very limited resources, they live happily, always wearing a smile on their faces. This will surely be a learning experience for all of us.
Best Time to Do Kunjpuri Temple Trek:
Kunjapuri Temple remains open throughout the year.
i) Kunjapuri Temple Sunrise Trek in Winter:
In peak winter months, you may find snow when you reach the temple. The forest trails will also be covered with some snow. The green trees peeping through the white fresh snow will be a beautiful sight to see. In winter, the weather of the Kunjapuri Temple trek will be really cold and windy.
ii) Kunjapuri Temple Sunrise Trek in Summer:
Summer months are considered the best time to go for this trek when you will be able to enjoy trekking through the forests. When the Chardahm Yatra opens, lots and lots of Yatris rush towards Rishikesh. At that time, you may find the trek and Temple crowded.
iii) Kunjapuri Temple Sunrise Trek in Summer in Monsoon:
In the months of peak monsoon, the trails can be very slippery. So, you should avoid going there by trekking. Instead, you can go there by car. Once you reach the temple, you will be mesmerized by the spectacular views of clouds passing beneath you. In monsoon, due to the cloudy atmosphere, you may not be able to witness the real beauty of the Sunrise from the Kunjapuri Temple.
Festivals Celebrated at Kunjapuri Temple:
As a temple dedicated to the divine feminine energy, Kunjapuri Temple hosts elaborate celebrations during the festival of Navratri. The vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by the bustling Mela (fair) organized at the temple grounds, attracting both local villagers and visitors from around the world. The spirit of joy and camaraderie fills the air as everyone joins in the festivities. Additionally, the auspicious occasion of Dussehra is celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm at Kunjapuri Temple.
Moreover, Kunjapuri Temple has become popular for destination weddings, offering a picturesque and spiritually significant venue for couples to begin their journey together.
Participating in any of these festivals or celebrations provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich customs and heritage of this sacred land, fostering a deeper connection to its cultural tapestry.
Flora and Fauna in the Kunjapuri Temple Trek:
Trekking through the forests in Rishikesh and Tapovan en route to Kunjapuri Temple, you will be able to see the beautiful wildflowers blooming, especially in the months of May and September.
The state of Uttarakhand is famous for its unique diversity. There are hundreds of bird species found here. During the trek, you may expect to spot some beautiful Himalayan birds. Birdwatchers can spend a whole day birdwatching in the jungle, and we are sure that they will be able to spot some amazingly beautiful Himalayan birds during their exploration.
Cycling Tour to Kunjapuri Temple:
In recent times, downhill biking (cycling) has gained popularity among adventure enthusiasts. Many opt to travel to the temple by car and then descend on bicycles. Riding through the winding mountain roads of the Himalayas promises an exhilarating experience for all who dare to embark on this journey.
How to Raech to Kunjapuri:
i) By Flight:
You can take a flight to Dehradun and then drive to Kunjapuri in a hired cab. Kunjapuri Temple is located at a distance of 35 km from the Jolly Grant Airport. The drive will take approximately an hour through the beautiful mountain roads of the Himalayas.
ii) By Train:
Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Kunjapuri Temple. From there, you can hire a cab to reach the temple. It's a 27 km drive, which will take around one hour.
iii) By Road:
If you are staying in Rishikesh or Tapovan, you can hire a cab to reach Kunjapuri Temple. In less than an hour, you will arrive at the temple.
Customize Your Trek:
In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your trekking experience. Whether you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made trekking program. This customized trek will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals, and any other premium facilities you may need during the trek. No other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a customized trek will enable you to fully enjoy the trek with your loved ones.
Har Ki Dun trek| Bali Pass trek | Phulara Ridge Trek | Kedarkantha Trek|Winter Dayara Bugyal| Dayara Bugyal trek| Gaumukh Tapovan trek| Kashmir Great Lakes trek | Valley of Flowers trek |Kuari Pass trek | CHOPTA CHANDRASHILA TREK Uttarakhand Treks | treks in Uttarakhand | Treks from Dehradun | Trek to Har ki Dun | Trekking companies in Dehradun
trek - Kaunjapuri Temple Trek
Neer Garh Waterfall is on the way to Kunjapuri Devi Temple in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Kaunjapuri Temple trek start on forest
Kaunjapuri Temple Trek
on the way ladder - Kaunjapuri Temple Trek
Kaunjapuri Temple Gate
Kaunjapuri Temple History
Kaunjapuri Temple side view
Kaunjapuri Temple front View
Kaunjapuri Temple tree side view
Kaunjapuri Temple top
Kaunjapuri Temple peak views