Kartik Swami Temple, located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, is a sacred place of Hindus, dedicated to Lord Shiva’s eldest son Kartikeya. The temple is situated amidst the snowy peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3048 meters above sea level.
It is believed this ancient temple is 200 years old. Apart from North India, Lord Karthik is also worshipped in South India, known as Kartik Murugan Swami.
History of Kartik Swami Temple
It is said that Karthikeya dedicated his bones to Lord Siva at this place. According to Maythalogical stories, one day Lord Shiva told Kartikeya and Ganesha that the one who would round the universe seven times and come first; would be worshipped before all the deities.
Then Ganesha turned around Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and said to them both of you are the universe. Lord Shiva was pleased and told Ganesha that from now on you will be worshipped before all deities. When Kartikeya came back after completing the 7 rounds of the universe, he came to know everything then he renounced his body and dedicated his bones to Lord Shiva.
Why You Should Visit Kartik Swami Temple in Rudraprayag
Visiting Karthik Swami Temple can be special for you in many ways. Apart from religious faith, nature lovers and adventurous tourists can also come here. Kartik Swami temple is high and surrounded by hills, the natural beauty can be enjoyed with full enthusiasm.
If you are fond of adventure, you can also enjoy trekking and hiking here. If you are fond of photography, you can capture amazing views from your camera. You can choose this place for a wonderful trip.
People vising Kartik Swami Temple can also enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding snowy peaks of Banderpunch, Chaukhambha Peak, Kedarnath Dome, Dronagiri, Neelkanth Parvat, Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, The group of Nanda Devi Peaks, and Meru & Sumeru Parvat.
When To Visit Kartik Swami Temple?
You can visit the temple at any time, but in terms of weather, the right time to visit the temple is between October to June, during this time you will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
How To Reach Kartik Swami Temple?
The right way to reach Kartik Swami Temple is by bus, which goes from Haridwar and Rishikesh to Rudraprayag. You have both options from Rudraprayag, either take a bus or Mahindra Max or Tata Sumo.
It is located 40 kilometers away from Rudraprayag on the Pokhari route. There is a 3 Kilometer of the Kartikswami trek that starts from Kanakchauri village and falls in between Rudraprayag to the Pokhari route.
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station (Around 200 Kms Away)
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (222 Kms away)