Guptkashi

Guptkashi, the 'hidden Kashi', is a small but deeply revered town in the Mandakini valley on the road to Kedarnath. Legend says Lord Shiva hid here from the pursuing Pandavas, giving the town its name, and its ancient Vishwanath temple — echoing the great shrine of Varanasi — together with the Ardhanareshwar temple makes it an important stop for pilgrims.

Perched above the river with views toward the snow peaks, Guptkashi has grown into a key staging point for the Kedarnath journey. Nearby Phata and Guptkashi itself serve as helicopter bases for those flying to the shrine, while road pilgrims pass through on the way to Sonprayag and Gaurikund.

The town also has a quieter spiritual significance as part of the network of Kedar-valley shrines, with the sacred Manikarnik Kund — a confluence of two streams — within the Vishwanath complex. Its restful setting and devotional air make it a meaningful pause on the Char Dham circuit.

Apr – Jun, Sep – Nov