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📍 Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
🏛️ Sightseeing Attraction

Thal Kedar Temple

Thal Kedar is a sacred high altitude Shiva pilgrimage shrine perched at an elevation of roughly 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) atop a commanding mountain ridge,...

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About Attraction

About Thal Kedar Temple

Thal Kedar is a sacred high altitude Shiva pilgrimage shrine perched at an elevation of roughly 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) atop a commanding mountain ridge, about 16 km south of Pithoragarh. Mentioned reverently in the ancient Skanda Purana alongside Kedarnath, this sacred mountain top is regarded as the spiritual crown of the Soar Valley.

Thal Kedar Temple in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand

The ancient stone sanctum houses a natural rock Shiva Lingam that is believed to date back thousands of years. Reached via an exhilarating 8 km uphill forest trek from Nakot or Aincholi through dense oak, pine, and rhododendron canopies, pilgrims touring eastern Uttarakhand gather here during the grand Maha Shivratri fair to offer prayers and soak in sweeping 360 degree vistas of the snow capped Greater Himalayas.

Truth is, the crisp mountain breeze and uninterrupted views of Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks make the uphill hike immensely rewarding. The temple is open daily from sunrise to sunset with free entry for all pilgrims.

How to Reach Thal Kedar Temple

  • By Air: Naini Saini Airport (PGH) is located about 16 km away in Pithoragarh, while Pantnagar Airport is 210 km southwest. Taxis take about 6.5 hours via Tanakpur.
  • By Train: Tanakpur Railway Station (TPU) is situated 145 km south, offering express rail connections from Delhi, Bareilly, and Lucknow. Kathgodam (KGM) is 175 km away.
  • By Road: Drive from Pithoragarh to Nakot or Aincholi base point (approx 8 km), followed by a rewarding 8 km marked trekking trail through oak forests to the summit temple.

Best Time to Visit Thal Kedar Temple

The best months to visit Thal Kedar Temple are from October to May when mountain weather is pleasant and trekking trails are dry.

  • Winter & Spring (October to April): Sunny, crisp weather with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C, offering crystal clear views of Himalayan snow peaks.
  • Maha Shivratri (February / March): The grandest annual festival with thousands of devotees trekking overnight to participate in special morning aartis.
  • Monsoon (July to August): Forest trails turn verdant green, though trekking requires good grip shoes on damp mountain stones.
Tour Packages

Tour Packages for Pithoragarh

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Accommodation

Hotels Near Thal Kedar Temple

Pine Resort ★★ Hotel

Pine Resort

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Hotel Meghna ★ Hotel

Hotel Meghna

Hotel Meghna is located in Pithoragarh. The rooms are equipped with amenities like a bottl…

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Holiday Home Hotel ★ Hotel

Holiday Home Hotel

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📸 Photo Gallery

Thal Kedar Temple & Pithoragarh Photo Gallery

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Explore high-resolution photographs of iconic landmarks, temples, and scenic spots in Pithoragarh.

Helpful Information

Frequently Asked Questions about Thal Kedar Temple

Essential visitor information regarding timings, entry tickets, location, nearby attractions, and travel guide in Pithoragarh.

According to the Skanda Purana, Thal Kedar is a sacred abode of Lord Shiva holding spiritual importance equal to the Char Dham Kedarnath shrine.

From the roadhead at Nakot or Aincholi, the uphill trek is approximately 8 km (around 3 to 4 hours of hiking) through dense oak and pine forests.

Thal Kedar Temple is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters (6,561 feet) above sea level atop the highest ridge overlooking Pithoragarh.

Yes, on clear days the summit ridge offers grand panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Maiktoli, and Panchachuli peaks.

No, entry and darshan at Thal Kedar Temple are completely free for all pilgrims and trekkers.

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