Welcome to the Himalayan hideway in the holy city of Guptkashi, At the foothills of Kedarnath mountain ranges just 40 km from the Kedarnath Shrine.
Upon reaching Guptkashi, Your vehicle climbs uphill, As this cliff top resort in hiding till then comes into view.
You will notice its terrace farms spread out in its vastness, While all around the mighty Himalayan snow peaks of Chaukhamba, Kedardome and Vasuki parbat play a watchful guardian. This retreat serves as a gateway to Kedarnath Shrine.
Guptakashi is base point to visit Kedarnath Temple, one of the Jyotirlinga and part of the Char Dham yatra and one of the Panch Kedars. Kedarnath is accessible by 13 km walk / hike and therefore a stay in Guptkashi is often mandatory for pilgrims travelling to Kedarnath.
Guptakashi is also home to ancient Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva similar to the one in Varanasi (Kashi).
Guptakashi is home to a temple dedicated to Ardhanareshvara (a half man half woman form of Shiva and Parvati).
Guptakashi has significance linked to the Pandavas, the heroes of the Hindu epic Mahabharata.
Guptakashi and its religious importance is considered next to that of Varanasi. It has the scenic backdrop of the snow covered peaks of Chaukhamba and enjoys a cool weather throughout the year.
Guptkashi (45 kms from Rudraprayag) is the base point from where trek to Kedarnath begins.