Highlights
- Sacred Journey: Trek to the only Kartik Swami Temple in North India, dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, the god of bravery and elder son of Lord Shiva.
- 360° Panoramic Himalayan Views: Marvel at an unobstructed view of iconic peaks, including Bandarpoonch, Kedardome, Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Dronagiri, Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, and the Nanda Devi range.
- Scenic Forest Trail: Walk along a 3-kilometer ridgeline through lush green forests, providing a serene and picturesque path to the temple.
- Birdwatching Paradise: Spot over 150 species of birds, such as the Himalayan monal, eagles, bearded vultures, and the Himalayan snowcock.
- Birdwatching Paradise: Spot over 150 species of birds, such as the Himalayan monal, eagles, bearded vultures, and the Himalayan snowcock.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from Rishikesh, with convenient connections by road, rail, and air, making it an ideal short getaway for spiritual and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Ideal Trekking Season: Enjoy the trek from October to June, a time when the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are at their most vibrant.
The Kartik Swami Trek offers a unique 2-night, 3-day experience, perfect for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike. Starting in Rishikesh, a scenic drive takes you 171 kilometers through the beautiful Garhwal Himalayas to Kanakchauri, the base village for the trek. After an overnight stay in a cozy guesthouse, you’ll set off on a 3-kilometer trek along a lush ridge trail, surrounded by serene forests and stunning mountain views.
Reaching the Kartik Swami Temple, dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, rewards trekkers with a spectacular 360° panorama of Himalayan giants like Bandarpoonch, Kedardome, Chaukhamba, and Nanda Devi. This sacred site, perched at 3,050 meters, is the only temple of Lord Kartikeya in North India, making it a cherished pilgrimage destination.
The trek is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 150 bird species, including Himalayan monals, eagles, and bearded vultures. The best time to visit is between October and June when the clear weather enhances the trekking experience. This trek combines spiritual peace, Himalayan grandeur, and immersive natural beauty, making it a truly unforgettable journey.
Map
Itineraries Expand all
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Day 1: Arrival at Rishikesh – Drive to Kanakchauri
On Day 1, you’ll arrive in Rishikesh, where our team will greet you early in the morning. The journey from Rishikesh to Kanakchauri is a scenic drive of approximately 171 kilometers, winding through picturesque valleys and traditional mountain villages. As we drive deeper into the Garhwal Himalayas, you’ll have a chance to enjoy the views and capture memories along the way. By late afternoon, we reach Kanakchauri, a serene village that serves as the starting point for the trek to Kartik Swami Temple. After checking in at a cozy guesthouse, the evening is yours to relax, acclimate to the altitude, and soak in the tranquil mountain atmosphere.
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Day 2: Kanakchauri to Kartik Swami Temple Trek
Day 2 begins with a hearty breakfast, energizing you for the trek to Kartik Swami Temple. The 3-kilometer trail takes you along a ridgeline, where each step offers more stunning views of peaks like Kedardome, Chaukhamba, and Nanda Devi. As we approach the temple, the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic scenery create an unforgettable spiritual experience. Upon reaching the temple, you’ll have time to explore, meditate, and marvel at the beauty around you. We’ll enjoy a packed lunch amidst the views and, for bird lovers, keep an eye out for sightings of eagles, bearded vultures, and Himalayan monals. After spending quality time at the temple, we begin our return trek to Kanakchauri, arriving back by evening. The night is perfect for sharing experiences and stories with fellow travelers, over a warm meal back at the guesthouse.
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Day 3: Kanakchauri to Rishikesh
On Day 3, following breakfast, we depart from Kanakchauri for the return journey to Rishikesh. As you relax and reflect on your trek through the Garhwal Himalayas, the beauty of this sacred journey lingers long after you leave the mountains. We reach Rishikesh by late afternoon, where you can continue exploring or head home with cherished memories of Kartik Swami.
Trip Infos
- Trip Destinations Garhwal Himalaya
Trip Includes & Excludes
- All applicable permits and forest entry fees
- All meals from arrival to departure
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Transportation
- Private car, Jeep for Mountain Drives
- Professional trekking guides
- Tented accommodation
- Transportation from and back to Rishikesh
- Any additional expenses not mentioned in inclusions
- Any expenses not specifically mentioned in inclusions
- Personal expenses (tips, laundry, phone calls)
- Personal porters, if required
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Availability
PACKAGE-KS
- Best price guaranteed.
- No booking fees.
- Professional local guide.