Kunjapuri Temple Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy
TREK DURATION
1 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
1676 meters
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
12 Km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
All Year
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun (Prince Chowk)
Kunjapuri Temple Trek Overview:
Kunjapuri Temple Trek - A Spiritual Trek Near Rishikesh
Kunjapuri Temple is located near Rishikesh at an altitude of 1676 m (5500 ft), is one of the most respected spiritual sites in Uttarakhand. 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..
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.
Sunrise and Sunset Timings at Kunjapuri Temple
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Sunrise Timing at Kunjapuri Temple
Here's the sunrise timing for each month so that you can plan accordingly and your experience of witnessing the sunrise should not be missed.
January to March: 06:40 am to 07:15 am
April to June: 05:15 am to 6:05 am
July to September: 05:19 am to 05:54 am
October to December: 06:10 am to 06:55 am
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Sunset Timing at Kunjapuri Temple
Here’s the sunset timing for each month so that you will not miss sunset.
January to March: 05:28 pm to 06:15 pm
April to June: 06:35 pm to 07:13 pm
July to September: 06:44 pm to 07:15 pm
October to December: 06:00 pm to 05:16 pm
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:
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.
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.
Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Kunjapuri Temple; Trek down to Tapovan - Explore Rishikesh
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. Click here to learn what a Customized Trekking program looks like.
Kunjapuri Devi 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 starts from Tapovan near Rishikesh. However, as per your convenience, you can choose from any of the 3 itineraries mentioned below.
i) Mythological Significance:
This site is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas in India. It is thought to be the location where the chest of Goddess Sati fell.
ii) Top Views: It has a breathtaking view of the Himalayan peaks, including Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, Gangotri, and Chaukhamba. It also lets you see the Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Doon Valley to the south.
iii) 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.
iv) 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.
v) 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.
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.
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.
- Sunrise: Kunjapuri temple is also famous for its sunrise. People come here in the early morning just to experience the sunrise. The sun rises above the mountain and it looks very divine and spiritual at same time. As it rises it brings positivity through the mind, body and soul.
- Sunset: Sunset also looks mystical from the Kunjapuri temple. You can spend your evening time at the temple with sunsets. While looking at it feels like the sun is setting into the mountains. And the colours are very beautiful after sunset.
- Yoga and Meditation: You can perform yoga and meditation at Kunjapuri temple. It is all mountains all around and colorful sky in front and rising lights giving energies. Perfect for yoga and meditation practices. It is already a spiritual place as it has high feminine energy.
- A Day Hike: After experiencing sunrise, you can trek down. It is a 12 km trek. This is a descent through forests and villages. You will see Neer waterfall and you also can have a bath in it.
- 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.
The Kunjapuri trek is short. It is easy for beginners. But you should still go with a local guide. They know the forest paths well. They know the best spot for sunrise. They know small trails most people miss.
If you book with Himalaya Shelter, their local guides are good. They are experienced. They will keep you safe while you walk. They will tell you stories about the temple. You hear about the villages nearby. You learn about life in the Garhwal mountains.
This kind of knowledge makes a simple walk feel better. And it helps the local people who live in these hills.
Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Kunjapuri Temple; Trek down to Tapovan - Explore Rishikesh
Drive: 30 km, 1 hr
Trek: 12 km – 13 km, 4 hrs
Altitude: 1,120 ft (340 m) – 4,500 ft (1,676 m)
Meals: Lunch
Today, we will begin our journey early in the morning around 4:00 am in order to reach the Kunjapuri Temple by dawn. Within an hour we will reach Kunjapuri Temple. In order to reach the Temple you will have to climb 80 steps. Upon reaching there, you can pay Homage in the Temple and seek blessings.
At dawn get ready to see one of the most beautiful Sunrises of your life. The Sun rises behind the Himalayas. The hues of the innumerable colors created over the canvas of the sky cannot be described in words. It is something that can only be experienced. Sit there and welcome the rising Sun. Spend some time doing yoga and Meditation and soak in the positive energy and divine vibes this sacred place offers. The famous Swargarohini, Chaukhambha, Gangotri and Bandarpunch mountain peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas appear from the Kunjapuri Temple. After Spending some time at the temple we will start descending.
The Descending is quite easy yet amazingly beautiful. You will walk through the beautiful forest trails while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the Himalayas. On the way, you will come across the beautiful Secret Waterfall. If the time allows, you can take a bath in it and rejuvenate yourself. Try to interact with local villagers and observe their lifestyle. It will enable you to understand the unique culture and heritage of the Himalayan mountain Villages. The descending is of 12-13 km and is quite easy.
As we leave behind the dense pine forests and descend towards the city, the landscape slowly changes and opens up into wider roads. Hold on to as many beautiful memories as you can in your heart and bid farewell to the trails with gratitude and fondness. After trekking for 3-4 hrs, you will reach Tapovan
Have a healthy lunch, and get an hour for rest. After that, we start exploring Rishikesh. As a part of this exploration, we will visit Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula and Parmarth Niketan Ashram. In the evening at the Sunset, you will get a wonderful opportunity to attend the Divine Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan. This will be an enchanting experience for you.
Our Vehicle will frop you at your accommodation after the Ganga Aarti.
Inclusions
- Transport Support from Rishikesh to Kunjapuri (One way)
- Lunch: Vegetarian Meal
- Professional Guide
- First-Aid kit
- All applicable taxes
Exclusions
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions
- Accommodation in Rishikesh
Kunjapuri Temple is Famous for it is a one of the 52 Shaktipeeths in India. Hence, It is a sacred place for the Hindus. Kunjapuri Temple Trek is famous for its Spectacular Sunrise Views.
If you opt to reach there by trekking from Rishikesh, it is a steep climb of 8-9 km. First-time trekkers may find this a little difficult an exhausting. However, the descending of 12 km is comparatively easy. We would advice you to reach Kunjapuri Temple by car and trek down to Rishikesh/Tapovan. That will enable you to enjoy the spectacular Sunrise Views and also be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Himalayan Trek.
There are 80 steps that need to be climbed in order to reach the Kunjapuri temple.
One of the most revered Shakti Peeths of Goddess Shakti in the Garhwal Himalayas is the Kunjapuri Devi Temple. This temple is old and situated at an altitude of about 5250 feet.
The 52 Shakti Peethas are a group of sacred Hindu shrines dedicated to the goddess Shakti, each believed to be where parts of the body of Sati (Shakti's previous incarnation) fell after her self-immolation. These temples are scattered across the Indian subcontinent, including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Tibet, and Sri Lanka.
Kunjapuri Temple is approximately 55 kilometers from Dehradun by road. The most common route includes passing through Ambala–Dehradun–Haridwar Road and then heading toward Rishikesh National Highway. Depending on your mode of travel and traffic conditions, the journey can take around 2 to 2.5 hours. If you're up for a scenic drive or even a sunrise trek, this temple offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and is a popular spiritual destination.
Yes, The Kunjapuri Temple trek is a popular route starting from Tapovan or Neer Waterfall, covering about 7–8 km. It takes around 5–6 hours and includes scenic forest trails and hidden waterfalls
Summer (April–September): Sunrise is between 5:15 and 5:45 AM.
From October to March, the winter sunrise happens between 6:30 and 7:00.
Based on Hindu mythology, Kunjapuri Temple is among the 52 Shakti Peeths where the body part of the Grief-stricken Lord Shiva carried Goddess Sati's charred corpse and fell self-immolating. According to legend, Goddess Sati's chest dropped here, so it is a very holy place for her followers. Built in a traditional style, the temple itself is an old and respected site of worship and a major pilgrimage destination known for its spiritual value and sweeping vistas of the encircling Ganges River and Himalayan Peaks.
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