Hey there, fellow wanderers! 👋
What’s up? I hope you’re doing great! 😄
Today, I’m super excited to share my recent journey my recent road trip — from Rishikesh to Kartikswami Temple! 🏞️✨
Spoiler alert: It was filled with serene views, local flavors, unexpected rain (yes, we got soaked like happy little kids), and lots of laughs.🤭💬
At one point, even the GPS was like, "I give up!" 🧭🤣
So, let’s not waste time...
Let’s dive right in! 🌟
🚗 The Journey Begins...
It was around 5 AM when I, my mom, my friend from Bihar, and a couple of close ones packed into our car and hit the road from Rishikesh. Since it was an Eid holiday and a long weekend, we wanted to avoid the crazy traffic Rishikesh usually faces on such days. And trust me — during long weekends, Rishikesh is always on fire!
My friend was visiting Uttarakhand for the very first time, and the mountain roads were a totally new thrill for him. We made sure mom sat in the front seat for her comfort — because mountain roads can be tricky!
🥣 Breakfast at Teen Dhara
Our first stop was a little place called Teen Dhara (literally means “Three Streams”), a popular halt for travelers on the Rishikesh–Devprayag highway. It’s known for its pocket-friendly dhabas and fresh, clean water from three natural streams that merge here.
I’ll share a picture soon — but let me tell you, the water was icy cold and incredibly refreshing. There’s something magical about mountain water. So sweet, so pure!, it feels like nature brewed it just for you! 💧✨
🕉️ Spiritual Pause at Devprayag
After breakfast, we continued towards Devprayag, where we witnessed the divine confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers — forming the sacred Ganga.
For Hindus, it’s not just a geographical spot; it’s a holy tirtha (pilgrimage site).
According to local belief, Alaknanda is seen as the daughter-in-law and Bhagirathi as the mother-in-law. Beautiful, right?
We clicked a few photos by the sangam, soaked in the views, and moved ahead...
🙏 Darshan at Dhari Devi Temple
Next up was Dhari Devi Temple, located right on the Alaknanda River. It’s believed that the upper half of the goddess’s idol resides here, while the lower half is at Kalimath.
Locals consider her the protector of Uttarakhand, guarding even the sacred Char Dham. The aura of this temple is powerful and calming at the same time.
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| "Dhari Devi Temple" |
🏡 Rest Stop at Kanakchauri Village
By the time we reached Kanakchauri, the base village for the Kartikswami trek, it was already 5 PM, and the weather had started turning gloomy. We decided to stay the night at the village.
People there were extremely warm and welcoming, but water is scarce, so a little adjustment is needed. Still, we managed and prepared for the next morning’s adventure.
🥾 The Kartikswami Trek Begins!
At sharp 6 AM, we started our 3 km trek to Kartikswami Temple. The trail was like something out of a dream — the path was lined with blooming Buransh (rhododendron) flowers, and the air felt like it had just been washed clean.
It’s a moderate trek, perfect for all age groups. My friends kept asking why temples in Uttarakhand are always so high up in the mountains — and I shared with them this beautiful story:
Once, Lord Shiva challenged his sons — Kartikeya and Ganesha — to circle the universe. Kartikeya took off on his peacock to travel the cosmos, while Ganesha circled his parents, saying, “You both are my world.”
Impressed, Shiva blessed Ganesha with the right to be worshipped first. Kartikeya, disappointed and heartbroken, retreated to the Himalayas, where he meditated and sacrificed his body.
Hence, Kartikswami Temple, dedicated to his bones, stands tall in these peaceful hills — far from the chaos of the world.
Buransh - Uttarakhand's state tree” ❤️
🌧️ Rain, Parathas & The Way Back
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| Buransh - Uttarakhand's state tree” ❤️ |
After a calm and soul-soothing darshan, we began our descent. But guess what? It rained midway!
We took shelter at a small tea stall, munched on hot aloo parathas, and watched the mist dance over the hills. Eventually, we reached back to Kanakchauri, and then drove home — hearts full, minds calm, and phones full of memories!
💬 Final Thoughts:
This trip was more than just a temple visit. It was a blend of spirituality, nature, simplicity, and togetherness. If you're someone who loves offbeat mountain escapes and meaningful travel, Kartikswami is your calling.
Until next time,
– Your mountain-loving blogger at Stacker Diary 💙
📍 Travel Essentials for Rishikesh to Kartikswami Temple
🛣️ Distance & Route:
- Total Distance: ~170 km (Rishikesh to Kanakchauri Village)
- Time Taken: Around 6–7 hours by car
- Route:
- Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Kanakchauri (Base village for trek)
🥾 Kartikswami Trek Info:
- Trek Distance: 3 km (one way) from Kanakchauri
- Trek Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (suitable for beginners too)
- Best Time to Visit:
- October–June (Avoid monsoon due to slippery trails)
🛏️ Stay Options:
1. Homestays in Kanakchauri Village
- Cozy and basic local homestays
- Price range: ₹500–₹1000 per night (per person, including meals)
- Facilities: Clean rooms, simple food, limited hot water due to water scarcity
2. Stay in Rudraprayag (for better hotels)
- Budget hotels and guesthouses available
- Price range: ₹1000–₹2500 per night
🍴 Food Charges:
- Local dhabas & homestays offer basic meals like Aloo Paratha, Rice, Dal, Sabzi etc.
- Approx cost per meal: ₹100–₹150
- Don’t miss Buransh juice (local rhododendron flower drink) in season!
🚗 Transportation:
- By Private Car: Best option for flexibility
- Shared Cabs/Local Bus: Available till Rudraprayag or Tilwara, then local jeep to Kanakchauri
