The serene lap of the Garhwal Himalayas, Madhyamaheshwar Temple stands as a magnificent symbol of devotion, myth, and natural beauty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is one of the sacred Panch Kedar pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. Far from the bustle of cities, the temple invites devotees and trekkers alike to experience spiritual calm and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Its remote location, high altitude, and trekking route make the journey to Madhyamaheshwar both a physical challenge and a soulful retreat. Temple About
Madhyamaheshwar Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. It is one of the Panch Kedar temples and holds significant spiritual importance.
Temple Description
Situated at an altitude of around 3,497 meters (11,473 ft), Madhyamaheshwar Temple is known for its serene beauty and spiritual atmosphere. The temple is built in traditional North Indian Nagara style architecture using stone, and it houses a navel-shaped Shiva Linga, symbolizing the “middle” (Madhya) form of Lord Shiva. Snow-capped peaks like Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, and Neelkanth can be seen from here.
Temple Speciality
One of the five Panch Kedar temples – where different parts of Shiva are believed to have emerged.
The navel (Madhya) of Lord Shiva is worshipped here.
The temple remains open only from May to November, and during winters, the idol is shifted to Ukhimath.
It is accessible only via a trek of about 16–19 km from Ransi village.
Temple Address
Madhyamaheshwar Temple, Gaundar Village, Near Ransi, UkhimathTehsil, Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand – 246469, India
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
30.6151° N, 79.2106° E
Temple Timings
6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Open from May to November
Closed during winter due to heavy snowfall
Temple Sevas (Rituals)
Abhishekam
Archana
Rudrabhishek
Aarti Seva
Special pujas during Shivratri and Shravan month
Traveling Facilities
Reach Ransi village by road; from there, trek 16–19 km to the temple.
Porters, guides, and mules available at the starting point.
The trek route passes through scenic locations and local villages.
Food Facilities
Limited eateries and dhabas in Ransi, Gaundar, and en route.
Simple vegetarian food, mostly local Garhwali cuisine.
Carrying snacks and dry fruits is recommended.
Stay Facilities
Budget guesthouses and homestays available in Ukhimath, Ransi, and Gaundar.
Basic accommodation, some provided by GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam).
No lodging near the temple itself.
Nearby Railway Station
Rishikesh Railway Station – Approx. 210 km away
Nearby Airport
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun – Approx. 225 km away
Nearby Bus Station
Ukhimath Bus Stand
Regular buses from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Srinagar (Garhwal)
Bus Routes to Temple
Delhi → Haridwar → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Ransi → Trek
Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Ransi
Train Routes to Temple
Train to Rishikesh or Haridwar
Continue by road to Ukhimath → Ransi → Trek
Air Ways to Temple
Flight to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Cab or shared taxi to Ukhimath or Ransi
Trek from Ransi
Nearby Cities to Temple
Ukhimath (25 km)
Rudraprayag (60 km)
Guptkashi (40 km)
Gaurikund (base for Kedarnath)
Nearby Visiting Temples and Places
Kedarnath Temple (one of Panch Kedar)
Tungnath Temple (highest Shiva temple)
Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath
Chopta – Scenic hill station
Deoria Tal – Picturesque lake
Kalpeshwar Temple – Another Panch Kedar site
Preferable Visiting Season
May to June and September to November
Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to landslides
Winters (Dec–April) inaccessible due to snow
Shopping – Famous For
Woolen items: handmade shawls, sweaters, and caps
Local herbs and Ayurvedic products
Puja samagri, Rudraksha malas, Himalayan souvenirs
Madhyamaheshwar Temple is not just a destination it's a transformative experience of nature, faith, and heritage. Whether you're a pilgrim in search of divine blessings or a traveler drawn by the call of the mountains, the journey to this Shiva temple offers unforgettable vistas and inner peace. Plan your visit during the open months, prepare for the scenic trek, and embrace the spiritual energy that flows through this ancient Himalayan shrine.
