Detailed Guide on Panch Prayag

“Panch Prayag” refers to the five sacred river confluences in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. The word “Prayag” means confluence, and these five are considered extremely holy by Hindus. They represent the meeting points of the Alaknanda River with five different rivers at five different places, each carrying deep mythological and spiritual significance. Pilgrims often undertake the Panch Prayag Yatra, a spiritual journey visiting all five confluences.

Uttarakhand has historically been known as “Dev Bhoomi” (the land of the gods) for good reason. Many of Hinduism’s most important shrines lie within the state. One of the most sacred of these is when India’s largest river Ganga meets its tributaries on its foaming path down to the plains at five different sites called Panch Prayag.

The Ganges is the holiest river in India, and it is believed that it purifies the soul of all its sins. Thus, the confluences of the Ganges with its tributaries are worshipped as the spiritual places of divine salvation, otherwise called “Prayag”. It is believed that a dip at the confluence cleanses the heart, mind, and soul of a person and inches him closer to liberation, or mukti

The rivers in these five spots are believed to be River Goddesses. Being a crucial integral part of the Chota Char Dham Yatra for pilgrims, people worship these river confluences at these divine banks or ghats and baths to seek blessings. 

The Story Behind Panch Prayag

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Ganga wanted to descend to Earth and bless humankind, but her power was too much for Earth to handle. Lord Shiva, knowing this, decided to split her energy and distribute it equally across the lands. He took her energy into his matted locks and directed it to flow into Earth in twelve channels. These channels are said to rejoin after Devprayag, the last of the Panch Prayag that birthed the holy Ganga river. As a result, the Devprayag is considered the most important of the Panch Prayag.

The Satopanth, Bhagirathi, Alaknanda, Vishnuganga, Dhauliganga, Nandakini, Pindar, and Mandakini meet at different points along the path and finally form the Ganga at the holy site of Devprayag. It is also deduced that the Panch Prayag located on the road to Badrinath refers to the Swargarohana (ascend to heaven) route followed by the Pandavas to attain salvation after they completed the circumambulation of the earth. There are various other mythologies, histories, and stories associated with each of the Prayags that we will explore in this article.

Panch Prayag Map

This map shows the sequential location of the Panch Prayag on the route to Badrinath:

1. Vishnuprayag – Alaknanda meets Dhauliganga

2. Nandaprayag – Alaknanda meets Nandakini

3. Karnaprayag – Alaknanda meets Pindar

4. Rudraprayag – Alaknanda meets Mandakini

5. Devprayag – Alaknanda meets Bhagirathi to form the holy Ganga

Located in the state of Uttarakhand, these five Prayags are set against the backdrop of the Himalayas and are part of the famous Char Dham route. The region is not just spiritually important but also incredibly scenic. Each Prayag offers a unique experience that blends nature, devotion, and adventure.

More about Panch Prayag 

Let us explore each Prayag in detail with the following sections:

1) Vishnuprayag

Located near Joshimath in Chamoli district at an elevation of 1,372 m (4,500 ft), Vishnuprayag is the first confluence, where the Alaknanda meets the Dhauliganga River.

Vishnuprayag is a holy city in the Chamoli district of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand. The Vishnu Ganga, or Alaknanda, originates from the eastern slopes of Chaukhamba from the Satopanth Glacier at Mana Pass and the Dhauli Ganga from Niti Pass at the Indo-Tibet border, and the intersection is called Vishnuprayag. Vishnuprayag derives its name from Lord Vishnu, a Hindu god, and the journey of River Ganga begins. However, taking dips in this confluence is prohibited as the rivers flow with full gusto but you can touch the river water from the banks.

Everywhere I looked on the internet, it was suggested that I begin my Prayag yatra with the very first Prayag, Vishnuprayag, and then go to the remaining Prayags in descending order. However, because Vishnuprayag is so far away from where I started my Prayag Yatra, the journey looked practically impossible to complete. My driver suggested starting with Dev Prayag and then moving on to the other Prayags, which turned out to be extremely convenient for me to cover. – By a traveler 

Spiritual Significance:

Named after Lord Vishnu, it is believed that Sage Narada meditated here to please Vishnu. The Vishnu Temple, located nearby, is an ancient place of worship.

Vishnuprayag holds significant importance in Hindu mythology. As the name of the confluence is derived from the Hindu God – Lord Vishnu, the Preserver, the place holds sacred facts you might like to know:

According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Vishnu has paid an obeisance in Vishnuprayag.

In Vishnuprayag, Narad Muni rigorously meditated on Vishnu’s name to seek blessings. Here, the Lord appeared to grant Narad a boon of wisdom. Before heading to Badrinath – Char Dham Yatra, pilgrims pray and seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings in Vishnuprayag for a safe journey.

The Vishnu temple in this confluence has a stair that leads to Vishnu Kund (a water pool) at the confluence.

How to Reach Vishnuprayag:

– Nearest town: Joshimath (12 km)

– By Road: Accessible via NH-58

– By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (280 km)

– By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (260 km)

What You Can Explore Here:

• Explore the Vishnu temples and ashrams and participate in spiritual practices.
• Adventure activities like river rafting, hiking, and trekking, and nearby excursions like the Kagbhusandi Lake, Valley of Flowers and the Kuari Pass.
• Taste the local Garhwali cuisines like Kafuli, Jhangora Kheer, Phaanu, and Singodi.

Best Time to Visit:

This prayag can be visited all year round except Monsoons. In case you are planning in winter, then check the weather forecast first. Jsohimath received heavy snowfall, and it can make your driving difficult. Keep in mind it can be crowded in case if you are visiting during May to June (Char Dhaam Yatra Season).

Accommodation Options :

Joshimath has several budget and mid-range hotels and guesthouses

a) Hotel Mount View, Joshimath – ₹2000–₹3000

Located in central Joshimath, around 12 km from Vishnuprayag, great for onward travel to Badrinath.

b) Hotel Dronagiri, Joshimath – ₹1800–₹2800

Near Joshimath market, with spacious rooms and a rooftop restaurant.

c) GMVN Joshimath Rest House – ₹1000–₹1800

Situated near the cable car station, good for budget travelers heading to Vishnuprayag or Auli.

2) Nandaprayag

Situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Nandakini rivers (elevation: 1,358 m (4,455 ft), in Chamoli district.

Nandprayag is a holy town 70 km from Vishnuprayag. The Nandakini River, a glacial river from the eastern Nanda Ghunti Peak, joins the Alaknanda at this stage. One of the six main tributaries, the Nandakini River, covers a distance of 105 km before merging with the Alaknanda.

Spiritual Significance:

It is said that King Nanda (foster father of Lord Krishna) performed a yagna here. The Nanda Temple is revered by locals.

According to Hindu mythology, Nanda Raja, the foster father of Lord Krishna and friend of Vasudev (the father of Lord Krishna), performed Maha Yajya to appease Vishnu for a son. Similarly, Vasudev and Devki did penance to grant a boon for a son from Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu granted boons to both Nandlal-Yashoda and Vasudev-Devki and Vishnu took the incarnation of Lord Krishna in Dwapar Yug. Here, a Gopalnath temple is built as the temple of Little Krishna.

Vasudev-Devki gave birth to Lord Krishna, and Vasudev handed over the baby Lord to Nanda Raja-Yashoda, who took care of the child. As the Nand Raja was successful in appeasing the Lord, the town was named after him as Nandprayag.

Also, the Nandakini River was named after it emerged from Nanda Devi Peak. Here Nanda Devi is referred to as Goddess, an incarnation of Shakti. Rishi Kanva, the foster father of Shakuntala, who had a great role in Rig Veda and Yajur Veda has performed rigorous penance on the banks of this confluence.

At this place, King Dushyanta married Shakuntala.

What You Can Explore Here:

How to Reach Nandaprayag:

– Nearest town: Chamoli (20 km)

– By Road: Connected through NH-58

– By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (220 km)

Best Time to Visit:

Due to being on a lower elevation, this prayag can be visited all year round except during the Monsoon. Keep in mind it can be crowded in case if you are visiting during May to June (Char Dhaam Yatra Season). To avoid traffic and crowd, visit in months of Jan, Feb, Mar, Sep, Oct, Nov, and Dec.

Accommodation Options :

Basic guesthouses and dharamshalas are available in Nandprayag and nearby towns like Gopeshwar.

a) Hotel Devlok – ₹1000–₹1800

Located on the roadside near the confluence point, ideal for a short stop.

b) Hotel Shivlok – ₹1200–₹2000

Located close to the ghat and highway, with valley-facing views.

c) GMVN Nandprayag Rest House – ₹800–₹1500

Simple government-run accommodation, ideal for pilgrims and budget travelers.

3) Karnaprayag

Here, the Pindar River merges with the Alaknanda. Located in Chamoli district (Elevation: 860 m (2,820 ft)), this is one of the most scenic confluences.

The holy town of Karnaprayag in the Chamoli district is the confluence where Pindar joins the Alaknanda River. The Pindar River originates from Pindari Glacier in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The third pilgrimage site of Panch Prayag is 20.4 km from Nandprayag. Swami Vivekanand is a monk, philosopher and religious teacher who has meditated at this place along with his Guru brothers: Guru Turianand Ji and Guru Akharanand Ji.

Spiritual Significance:

Linked with Karna from the Mahabharata. It is believed Lord Krishna performed Karna’s last rites here.

The Karnaprayag is also called “ The City of Karna- the Suryaputra”. Here, Karna meditated on the name of his father, Surya Dev. During the Mahabharata time, when the war of arrows was going on between Arjun and Karna, Karna’s chariot was stuck in the mud. He was trying to take the chariot’s wheel out but was helpless.

Shri Krishan knew that Karna had the only strength to stand against Arjun. He disguised himself as a Brahmin and asked Karna for alms. Karna was also known as Daanveerthe (Great Donor). He gave his blood as alms, and then Krishan made him recall the wrong deeds of Karna. Lord Krishna asked Karna, “Let the Dharma win,” showing his most celestial incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Krishna told Arjuna to hit the arrow when Karna was stuck. Krishna performed the cremation of Karna at this auspicious town of Karnaprayag.

Also, the Goddess Parvati, Uma Temple is situated near the confluence in Karnaprayag.

What You Can Explore Here:

• Visit the confluence and take dips in holy water. Photography, exploration, nature walks, hiking, and sightseeing are some activities you will enjoy. Visit temples and local shrines to seek blessings.
• Karna Temple, Uma Temple, Chandika Devi Simli, Hariyali Devi Temple, Adi Badri (One of Panch Badni), Auli
• Explore the local markets and handicrafts.

How to Reach Karnaprayag:

– Nearest town: Karnaprayag itself is well-connected

– By Road: NH-109

– By Train: Rishikesh (210 km)

Best Time to Visit:

January to June and September to December. Keep in mind it can be crowded in case if you are visiting during May to June (Char Dhaam Yatra Season). To avoid traffic and crowds, visit in the months of Jan, Feb, Mar, Sep, Oct, Nov, and Dec.

Accommodation Options:

Multiple guesthouses and lodges cater to tourists here.

a) Hotel River View – ₹1000–₹1800

Right beside the Alaknanda river, just off the highway.

b) Shri Krishna Palace – ₹1200–₹2000

Located in the heart of Karnaprayag town, near the market and bus stop.

c) GMVN Karnaprayag Rest House – ₹800–₹1600

Positioned at a calm spot with good connectivity to the highway.

3) Rudraprayag

A spiritual meeting point of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers (Elevation: 895 m/ 2,936 ft), situated in Rudraprayag district.

The fourth confluence is Rudraprayag, a district of Uttarakhand, where the Mandakini River from Chorabari Glacier, Kedarnath, joins the Alaknanda. The Rudraprayag district, covering 2,439 square km, is formed from the parts of the towns of Augustmuni-Ukhimath block from Chamoli, Jakholi-Kirtinagar block from Tehri, and Khirsu block from Pauri. This holy place was established as a district on 16 September 1997. Here, Jim Corbett shot the ‘Leopard of Rudraprayag,’ which killed over 125 people.

On our way to RudraPrayag, our driver shared with us an extremely vital piece of information. He said that, in order to master the mysteries of music, Narad Muni worshipped Lord Shiva, who appeared in his Rudra Avatar to bless him. On his suggestion, we went to the Narad Shila, a black rock where Narad Muni is said to have meditated. We wouldn’t have heard about it if it hadn’t been for him, so we’re grateful for his recommendation, which led us to view a treasured piece of mythology. – Rakshit Sharma (a fellow traveler)

Spiritual Significance: 

The city of Rudraprayag derives its name from Lord Shiva’s incarnation, Rudra.

Lord Shiva in the avatar of Rudra, gave darshan to Narad Muni. He learned music from Rudra, also known as the Lord of Music.

Narad Shila is here where Narad Muni has meditated. Rudraprayag is a significant part of the Char Dham Yatra as the district lies in the path of the Kedarnath-Badrinath route.

What You Can Explore Here:

• Visit the Rudraprayag confluence 
• Check out the local handicrafts and other items. Enjoy exclusive traditional Garhwali cuisines. Also, villages like Maikoti, Jaggi Kandai, Baron Dewai, and Bawai
• Kartik Swami temple
• Basukedar Temple
• Tungeshwar Mahadev Ji, Phalasi
• Dhari Devi Temple

How to Reach Rudraprayag:

– Nearest town: Rudraprayag

– By Road: On the way to Kedarnath, well connected by roads

– By Train: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (140 km)

Best Time to Visit:

January to June and September to December. Keep in mind it can be crowded in case if you are visiting during May to June (Char Dhaam Yatra Season). To avoid traffic and crowds, visit in the months of Jan, Feb, Mar, Sep, Oct, Nov, and Dec.

Accommodation Options:

From budget hotels to decent lodges, Rudraprayag offers many options.

a) Monal Resort – ₹2500–₹4000

On the main highway before entering Rudraprayag town, a riverside location with scenic views.

b) Hotel Pushpdeep Grand – ₹1500–₹2500

Located centrally in Rudraprayag, walkable from the confluence ghat.

c) GMVN Rudraprayag Rest House – ₹1000–₹1800

Set near the river, simple rooms with easy access to main town attractions.

5) Devprayag

This is the final confluence where Alaknanda meets Bhagirathi to form the sacred Ganga. Located in Tehri Garhwal at an elevation of 830 m (2730 ft).

Devprayag, or “Godly Confluence,” is the final destination where Bhagirathi meets Alaknanda, completing the Ganga River System.  This confluence is 67 km from Rudraprayag. Located in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand, the Bhagirathi River joins from Gaumukh. Here, the river Ganga is formed, which is widely worshipped by the Indians to rinse off their sins. After this, the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati merge to form the Triveni Sangam at Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh.

Devprayag is surrounded by three peaks: Gidhhanchal, Narainghanchal, and Dashrathanchal. This holy place is also called the Land of Late Pandit Chandrashekhar Joshi, who set up Nakshatra Veda Shala, an observatory in 1946 at the peak of Dashrathanchal with ancient tools like Surya Ghati and Dhruv Ghati. 

Spiritual Significance:

Home to the Raghunath Temple, Devprayag is one of the oldest pilgrimage towns in India.

It is believed that Lord Ram and his father, King Dashrath, did meditation here.

Lord Rama has also meditated to get rid of the sin of Brahma Hatya, the killing of Ravana (a Brahma Rakshas).

After the rigorous penance of Lord Brahma, the Creator, Bhagirathi succeeded in bringing Ganga to the earth. Here Lord Shiva is worshipped as Tondeshwar Mahadev and Dhaneshwar Mahadev.

How to Reach Devprayag:

– Nearest town: Srinagar (35 km), Rishikesh (90 km)

– By Road: Easily accessible from Haridwar and Rishikesh

– By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (90 km)

What You Can Explore Here:

• Visit the confluence of Devprayag
• Take blessings from the holy shrines and explore the places nearby. Try the cuisines and explore the local markets.
• Sightseeing, hiking and photography

Best Time to Visit:

September to April is ideal for visiting Devprayag.

Accommodation Options:

a) Hotel Chakasha Govindam – ₹1200–₹1800

Located near the confluence point, offering direct views of the Ganga.

b) Hotel Raghunath Palace – ₹1500–₹2500

Situated close to Raghunath Temple and the market area.

c) GMVN Tourist Rest House – ₹800–₹1500

Located slightly uphill, managed by the state tourism board; basic and peaceful

Best Time to Visit Panch Prayag

The best months are April to June and September to November. The summer months are pleasant and ideal for travel. Monsoon (July–August) should be avoided due to landslides and heavy rain. Winter (December–February) is also difficult due to snowfall in higher regions.

The best time to visit Panch Prayag is during summer (April to June) and autumn (October to November) when the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and travel is comfortable. Summer temperatures range from 20℃ to 30℃, while autumn offers cooler weather between 10℃ to 20℃. Monsoon (July to September) is not ideal due to heavy rain, landslides, and slippery roads. Winter (December to March) brings very cold temperatures, sometimes dropping to -9℃, and may have snowfall, making travel difficult except for those comfortable with snow conditions.

How to Reach Panch Prayag?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to cover all five Prayags by road:

1. Rishikesh to Devprayag (74 km)

Follow NH7 along the Ganga River. This is the point where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda merge to form the Ganga River. Devprayag is the starting point of the Panch Prayag pilgrimage.

2. Devprayag to Rudraprayag (66 km)

Continue along NH7 via Srinagar (Garhwal). From Devprayag, take the road to Srinagar, then proceed to Rudraprayag, where the Mandakini River meets the Alaknanda. This town is a major junction for routes heading toward Kedarnath and Badrinath.

3. Rudraprayag to Karnaprayag (34 km)

Stay on NH7 and drive further upstream. Karnaprayag is where the Pindar River, coming from the Pindari Glacier, joins the Alaknanda. This route offers beautiful roadside views and glimpses of traditional Garhwali villages.

4. Karnaprayag to Nandaprayag (21 km)

Continue along NH7 towards Chamoli. At Nandprayag, the Nandakini River, originating from the Nanda Devi glacier, merges with the Alaknanda. This stretch is relatively short but scenic, with chances of spotting terraced fields and mountain peaks.

5. Nandaprayag to Vishnuprayag (73 km)

Head toward Joshimath via Chamoli on NH7. Vishnuprayag is located just before Badrinath, where the Dhauliganga River joins the Alaknanda beneath the towering peaks of the Himalayas. This is the final and most elevated confluence on the Panch Prayag route.

Quick Overview of Connectivity

Roadways:

• NH7 (formerly NH58) is the lifeline connecting all five Prayags.
• Buses, shared jeeps, and taxis are available from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.

Railways:

• Nearest major railheads: Rishikesh and Haridwar.
• From either station, road transport is needed to reach the Prayags.

Airways:

• Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) is the nearest airport.
• Well-connected with Delhi and other metro cities.
• Taxis are available from the airport to Devprayag and beyond.

Destination	Distance	Duration
Rishikesh to Devprayag	74 km	2 hrs
Devprayag to Rudraprayag	66 km	1-2 hrs
Rudraprayag to Karnaprayag	34 km	1 hr
Karnaprayag to Nandprayag	21 km	40 minutes
Nandprayag to Vishnuprayag	73 km	2 hrs 30 minutes
Delhi to Devprayag	309 km	More than 5 hrs
Dehradun to Devprayag	112 km	3-4 hrs
Haridwar to Devprayag	97 km	3 hrs

Panch Prayag Yatra

The Panch Prayag Yatra is often done as a part of the Char Dham Yatra or separately. It can be completed in 5–7 days, depending on your pace and travel mode. Many devotees do this journey by road, stopping at each Prayag for rituals and darshan.

Suggested Yatra Route:

1. Start from Rishikesh or Haridwar

2. Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Nandaprayag → Vishnuprayag

3. Continue to Badrinath if desired

Final Thoughts

Panch Prayag isn’t just a physical journey, it’s a spiritual odyssey. With the rivers whispering tales of mythology, snow-covered peaks offering silent prayers, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, each Prayag leaves a permanent mark on the soul.

If you’re planning Panch Prayag Yatra, make sure to include the Panch Prayag in your itinerary not just for the divine vibes, but for the stunning natural beauty and heartwarming hospitality. Need help planning your Panch Prayag Yatra? Contact us at Himalayan Dream Treks (HDT) at info@himalayandreamtreks.in or call +91 8089693825.

FAQs

Are there any entry fees for visiting the Panch Prayag? No fees are there to visit the Panch Prayag confluences.

What important points must be taken care of while visiting the Panch Prayag?

• Take valid ID proofs with you
• Take the necessary things required while travelling 
• Stay polite and maintain decorum while visiting holy places.

Is visiting the river confluences safe? Yes, bathing steps are made so people can bathe with care from the river water level. 

Can we take holy dips in Panch Prayag? Yes, you can take holy dips in the four confluences: Nandprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag. But do not get too close to Vishnuprayag because of the strong flow of rivers.

Is it safe to travel to Panch Prayag in the monsoon? No, it’s best to avoid travel during July and August due to the risk of landslides and floods.

Can I complete the Panch Prayag Yatra in one go? Yes, with proper planning, you can cover all five in 5–7 days, ideally in a private or rental vehicle for convenience.