Trek Duration: 1–2 Days
Maximum Altitude: 10,000 ft (approx.)
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Time to Visit: October to June
Location: Near Kanakchauri Village, Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand
Why Trek to Kartikswami?
The Kartikswami Trek is one of the most accessible yet spiritually uplifting short treks in Uttarakhand. It leads to a centuries-old temple dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, perched on a narrow ridge with panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Highlights
Why Trek to Kartikswami?
The Kartikswami Trek is one of the most accessible yet spiritually uplifting short treks in Uttarakhand. It leads to a centuries-old temple dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, perched on a narrow ridge with panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Highlights
- Breathtaking 180-degree views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Trishul
- Peaceful forest trail through oak and rhododendron groves
- A culturally rich experience with a sacred hilltop temple
- Ideal for beginners, solo travelers, and weekend getaways
Kartikswami Trek Itinerary Overview
Base Point: Kanakchauri Village (Accessible via Rudraprayag)
| Day | Route | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rudraprayag to Kanakchauri (drive), trek to Kartikswami | ~10,000 ft |
| 2 | Sunrise at temple, return to Kanakchauri and Rudraprayag | — |
Trail Description
The trek begins from Kanakchauri village, located about 40 km from Rudraprayag. From there, a well-marked 3 km trail climbs gently through forests and rocky sections to reach the Kartikswami Temple. The ridge walk is scenic, often accompanied by birdsong and views of deep valleys below.
At the summit, the temple dedicated to Lord Kartikeya stands at the edge of a cliff, surrounded by flags and prayer offerings. On a clear day, the Himalayan range dominates the horizon.
Camping and Accommodation
- Basic homestays available in Kanakchauri
- Camping near the temple is possible with permission
- Sunrise and sunset views are particularly recommended
Tip: Carry a sleeping bag and warm clothing if you plan to stay overnight near the temple.
Essentials to Carry
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Warm layers, even in summer (temperatures drop at night)
- Water bottle, torch, and personal snacks
- Camera and binoculars for Himalayan views and birdwatching
How to Reach Kartikswami Trek Base
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh or Haridwar
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
By Road:
- Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Kanakchauri (~210 km)
- Shared jeeps and buses available from Rudraprayag
Ideal For
- Beginners and families
- Pilgrims and spiritual seekers
- Nature lovers and weekend trekkers
Final Thoughts
The Kartikswami Trek is a perfect blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and accessibility. Whether you’re looking for a short escape from city life or a place to find peace in the mountains, Kartikswami offers a rewarding experience with minimal effort.
It’s one of Uttarakhand’s best-kept secrets—ideal for those who want to connect with the Himalayas without venturing too deep into the wilderness.