Kartik Swami Temple in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand

Kartik Swami Temple is situated atop Kronch Parvat in Kanakchauri Village of Rudraprayag district. Dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, the temple holds deep spiritual significance for its association with a tale of selfless sacrifice by Lord Kartikeya, the elder son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

The story of Kartik Swami goes back to an event where Lord Shiva posed a challenge to his two sons, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. He declared that whoever completed seven circles around the universe first would be worshipped before all other deities. Lord Kartikeya, confident of his speed, immediately set out to circle the universe on his vehicle, a peacock. However, Lord Ganesha, who is known for his wisdom, simply circled his parents, stating that for him, his parents were the entire universe.

Impressed by Ganesha's intelligence and devotion, Lord Shiva granted him the boon that Lord Ganesha would be worshipped first. When Lord Kartikeya returned after completing his journey around the universe, he was disappointed and angry to learn that his younger brother had already won the challenge.

Hurt by this, Lord Kartikeya decided to renounce the world. He retreated to the Kronch Parvat, a sacred mountain, where he offered his bones and flesh to Lord Shiva in a final act of devotion and sacrifice. It is believed that his skeletal remains were offered to his father, symbolizing his complete surrender to divine will. In honor of this incredible act of self-sacrifice, the Kartik Swami Temple was built at this site, where devotees now come to seek blessings from Lord Kartikeya.

The Kartik Swami Temple is perched on a cliff, surrounded by the stunning Garhwal Himalayan Range. To reach the temple, pilgrims must undertake a 3 km trek from Kanakchauri village. The trek is known for its picturesque beauty, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Dronagiri.

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 215 km from Rudraprayag. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Rudraprayag and then proceed to Kanakchauri village.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, located about 200 km from Rudraprayag. From Rishikesh, taxis and buses are available to reach Kanakchauri.

By Road: Kanakchauri village is well-connected by road to Rudraprayag, which is around 40 km away. From Kanakchauri, a 3 km trek will take you to Kartik Swami Temple. Regular buses and taxis operate from major cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh to Rudraprayag.