Madmaheshwar Trek 2025: Complete Itinerary, Route, Stay, and Temple Guide

The sacred doors of Madmaheshwar Temple, one of the five holy Panch Kedar shrines, officially opened for pilgrims and trekkers on May 21, 2025. Nestled in the remote Garhwal Himalayas of Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva invites adventurers and devotees alike to witness its natural beauty and spiritual depth.

Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a spiritual seeker, the Madmaheshwar Trek is a soul-refreshing journey filled with alpine meadows, dense forests, Himalayan culture, and panoramic peaks.

Trek Snapshot

• Location: Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand

• Altitude: 3,497 meters (11,473 feet)

• Trek Distance: Approx. 32 km (round trip)

• Duration: 4–5 days (moderate pace)

• Base Village: Ransi

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Best Time: May to June, September to October

• Temple Opening 2025: May 21, 2025

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Rishikesh to Ransi Village

Begin your journey with an early morning drive from Rishikesh to Ransi, covering around 220 km. The scenic route passes through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath. The road is well-maintained up to Ransi, which serves as the base camp for the trek.

• Travel Time: 9–10 hours

• Stay: Guesthouses and homestays in Ransi

• Tip: Leave early to reach before sunset and acclimatize.

Day 2: Ransi to Gaundhar

Start the trek with a 9 km walk through forested paths, crossing wooden bridges and small Garhwali hamlets. The route is a gentle ascent and offers a glimpse of village life.

• Distance: 9 km

• Stay: Homestays or tents in Gaundhar

• Highlight: Enchanting forest trails and birdwatching opportunities

Day 3: Gaundhar to Madmaheshwar Temple

This leg is more challenging with steeper climbs and narrow trails. But the reward is stunning — you reach the sacred Madmaheshwar Temple, set against snow-capped backdrops like Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, and Neelkanth.

• Distance: 7 km

• Activities: Darshan at the temple, evening aarti

• Stay: Guest huts near the temple or tented accommodations

Day 4: Explore Budha Madmaheshwar & Return to Gaundhar

Wake up early and hike 2 km further to Budha Madmaheshwar, a small shrine offering unmatched sunrise views. The reflection of Chaukhamba in the alpine lake is breathtaking.

• Trek back: Return to Gaundhar the same day

• Stay: Overnight in Gaundhar

Day 5: Gaundhar to Ransi and Drive Back to Rishikesh

Trek downhill to Ransi and drive back to Rishikesh. Most travelers reach by late evening if they start early.

Accommodation Guide

• Ransi: Basic homestays with local meals; pre-book during peak season.

• Gaundhar: Limited homestays and camping options available.

• Near Temple: Few guest lodges and government-run huts. Book early or carry tents if you prefer flexibility.

Food and Facilities

• Local food like dal-chawal, roti, sabzi, and tea is available at small stalls or homestays.

• Carry dry snacks, ORS, energy bars, and personal water bottles.

• Power and network are erratic after Ukhimath — carry power banks and inform your family.

Why Visit Madmaheshwar in 2025?

• The temple holds mythological significance as the navel form of Lord Shiva.

• 2025 offers a well-maintained route post-winter restoration and less crowd compared to Kedarnath.

• The scenic beauty combined with spiritual peace makes this one of the most balanced Himalayan treks.

• A fresh tourism push by the Uttarakhand government ensures improved safety and services.