Rudraprayag
Situated at the sacred confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, Rudraprayag (elevation: 895m) serves as a crucial junction for pilgrims traveling to Kedarnath and Badrinath. This spiritual town in Uttarakhand's Garhwal region offers breathtaking Himalayan vistas, with the mighty Neelkanth peak visible on clear days. The town's name derives from Lord Shiva's fierce Rudra avatar, with its spiritual energy palpable throughout. Rudraprayag experiences pleasant summers (15-30°C) and chilly winters (5-15°C), with monsoon season (July-August) bringing heavy rainfall and occasional landslides. The town serves as:
Gateway to Kedarnath (86km north)
Important stop on the Char Dham circuit
Base for exploring nearby Himalayan villages
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit: April-June & Sept-Nov
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun (150km)
Railhead: Rishikesh (140km)
Accommodation: Pilgrim guesthouses to 3-star hotels
Local Transport: Shared jeeps, taxis
Cuisine: Garhwali thalis, pilgrim food, local apples
Why Visit Rudraprayag?
Witness the powerful river confluence
Experience authentic pilgrimage culture
Access point for Kedarnath trek
Offbeat Himalayan destination
Blend of spirituality and adventure
Rudraprayag offers travelers an unfiltered glimpse into Uttarakhand's spiritual heartland, where Himalayan grandeur meets sacred geography in a less-commercialized setting than Rishikesh or Haridwar.