Rudraprayag is a picturesque town in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand amidst the mountains. It is known for its spiritual pursuits and adventure activities. This quiet town stands at the confluence of the Great Alaknanda River and the Kokasi River, which creates a stunning sight. The things to do in Rudraprayag include visiting many ancient temples, sightseeing, and strenuous trekking in the Himalayas. Rudraprayag possesses different experiences that all travellers can enjoy, whether spirituality, nature or adventure.
10 Things To Do In Rudraprayag
Explore these incredible attractions and amazing things to do in Rudraprayag during your visit to Uttarakhand:
1. Visit Dhari Devi Temple
Photo: Techmomos / Wikimedia Commons
The beautiful bank of the Alaknanda River has the famous Dhari Devi Temple, a prominent temple between Srinagar and Rudraprayag on Badrinath Road, in its stretch. This temple is dedicated to Maa Dhari Devi, the protector deity of the area. The temple was positioned on a rock at a height or elevation of 20 m above sea level. It was moved in 2013 to a new structure, assisting further in the temple’s historical and spiritual outlook. Set within the river and in peaceful surroundings, the temple is ideal for prayer and meditation owing to its environment.
Location: NH-58 between Srinagar and Rudraprayag town
Elevation: 560 metres
Timing: 6 AM – 7 PM
2. View Valley Of Flowers Trek
Photo: Alosh Bennett / Wikimedia Commons
Trek in the Valley of Flowers is an experience that should not be missed, an opportunity to explore superb scenery. This breathtaking valley, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, is famous for its carpets of numerous alpine and other plants. This is especially from mid-July to August when the flora is at its finest. While trekking around in the lush green meadows, expect to see a wide variety of colours and landscapes that include more than 300 kinds of flowers, snow-topped hills, and beautiful waterfalls.
Location: 127 km from Rudraprayag, accessible via Govindghat
Height: 13,000 ft
Duration: 5 hours
3. Explore Chadrapuri
Photo: Vladimir Srajber / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Chandrapuri is a charming town nestled on the banks of the Mandakini River en route to the famous Kedarnath Dham. Sitting 650 metres above sea level, this tranquil village offers stunning views of the Mandakini River. It winds through the lush Garhwal hills. The serene surroundings make it an ideal spot for travellers seeking respite from the journey to Kedarnath. It allows them to unwind amidst nature’s bounty. Chandrapuri’s beauty and location are also an added advantage as it can be used as a break to grab some quick meals and drinks.
Location: 25 km from Rudraprayag bus station.
Elevation: 650 metres
4. Pray At Karma Jeet Temple
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Karma Jeet Temple in Pillu, Rudraprayag, uses this quiet settlement to tell about the old traditions and beliefs. This temple, dedicated to the serpent deity Karamjeet Devta, is close to the famous Kartik Swami temple. The temple is seen to have rituals and oral narration of stories. The followers anticipate this deity will spare the area from snakes and protect them from snake bites. The calming aura obtained from the village and its environment gives Karamjeet Taman a sense of place, allowing worshipers to satisfy their spiritual yearnings.
Location: 30 km from Rudraprayag bus station
Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
5. Explore Syalsaur
Photo: Wiriyah Ruechaipanit / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Syalsaur lies on the calm banks of the Mandakini River and is a secret spot in Uttarakhand. It stands at a height of 820 m (above sea level). This beautiful place is a haven for nature lovers and bird watchers. It is where things are slow and lovely and take time away from busy schedules. The visitors may go for peaceful walks along riverbanks, take pictures of picturesque views, or relax in undisturbed nature. Syalsaur’s quietness and unsophisticated beauty make it an excellent choice for a day trip or a quiet retreat.
Location: 26 km from Rudraprayag bus station
Elevation: 820 metres
6. Go On A Day Trip To Hariyali Devi Temple
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At 1400 metres, Hariyali Devi Temple is a place of great religious importance on the Rudraprayag-Karanprayag route. The temple can be reached by taking a side trip from Nagrasu. It is believed that Goddess Hariyali Devi, the temple’s presiding deity, guarded the area and the devotees and blessed them with wealth and prosperity. It is impressive to see the temple from a distance as it is pretty beautiful. It is with an idol of the Goddess seated on the back of a lion flanked by Kshatrapal and Heet Devi.
Location: 15 km from Rudraprayag bus station
Timing: 6 AM – 7 PM
7. Explore Sonprayag
Photo: Giri.kalpesh20 / Wikimedia Commons
Sonprayag is a lovely little spot which stands at the merger of the Basuki and Mandakini Rivers. This little village attracts pilgrims who visit Kedarnath thanks to its striking natural beauty and tranquil environment. Snow-capped mountains and greenery make Sonprayag accessible to both nature enthusiasts and devotees. The village presents panoramic views around, giving chances to photograph or sit quietly by the banks of the river for contemplation. The trip to Kedarnath starts here, allowing the tourists to relax before continuing with the religious procession.
Location: 72 km from Rudraprayag
Elevation: 1829 metres
8. Visit Augustmuni
Photo: Tom Fisk / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The name Augustyamuni is derived from the great sage Rishi Agasthya and is part of a mighty cultural and spiritual heartland. It acts as a significant stop in the Char Dham Yatra. A helipad’s availability makes it an advantageous place for Bala Khande pilgrims heading to Kedarnath. One of the important sites is the Agasthya Muni Temple, which tells stories about how visitors got the rationale behind the teachings.
Location: 9 km from Rudraprayag town
Elevation: 1000 metres
9. Go On A Day Trip To Gaurikund
Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons
Gaurikund, a place of great religious importance that sits at an elevation of about 1,900 metres. It is a stopover for all devotees heading towards Kedarnath Temple. This town marks the commencement of a trek to the holy Kedarnath Temple, which is a 16 km journey away. The spring waters of Gaurikund are famous for their warmth, wherein devotees undertake the final dip before setting off on the quest. Gaurikund, besides the hot springs, is also significant for housing the Gauri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, furthering the spiritual character of this place.
Location: 71 km from Rudraprayag town
Elevation: 1982 metres
10. Embark On Chandrashila And Tungnath Trek
Photo: Alok / Wikimedia Commons
The Chandrashila and Tungnath Trek can be regarded as a fascinating activity that offers sightseeing of the Garhwal Himalayas. Further up, this trek leads to Chandrashila Peak, which is the highest point of Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world. It offers an exhilarating view of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks. This specific trail, which has many rhododendron trees and the land is filled with alpine meadow flowers, is perennial.
Location: 90 km from Rudraprayag, starting at Chopta
Elevation: 3695 metres
There are many things to do in Rudraprayag that would please all different kinds of tourists who want to visit the beautiful town. From the exploration of the rich cultural past by going to temples such as Dhari Devi, there is something for everyone in the region. Book your trip with TripXL to experience the best of Rudraprayag and its attractions. Get your trip booked today so that you have those moments in life which you can treasure forever.
Cover Photo: Karunamay Mukhopadhyay / Wikimedia Commons