Tourism in Rudraprayag District offers the travellers the scope of experiencing the amazing discovery of nature`s bounties tucked away securely in the hills. This region of Uttarakhand with gushing rivers, majestic snow-clad peaks, enchanting lakes and a rich plethora of flora and fauna is described as the `Abode of Gods`. Thus, quite naturally the blissful air of divinity and picturesque beauty that envelope the Himalaya Mountains lends it a touch of paradise. The most popular places of interest in Rudraprayag District are mentioned below.
Chandrashila: Chandrashila is the most accessible peak of the Himalayas of this region, at an altitude of 3679 metres, especially since most of the peaks are difficult to scale. This combines scaling, skiing and trekking through a route of rich flora and fauna, lakes, meadows full of fresh snow in the winter months. Chandrashila peak itself provides a rare panoramic view of innumerable snow clad peaks which is simply breath-taking.
Rudraprayag: Named after Lord Shiva (Rudra), Rudraprayag is situated at the holy confluence of Alaknanda River and Mandakini River, at a distance of 34 kms from Srinagar (Garhwal). The meeting of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers has a unique beauty of its own. It is believed that to master the mysteries of music, Lord Narad worshipped Lord Shiva, who appeared in his Rudra Avtaar (incarnation) to bless Narad Muni. Here, the Shiva and Jagdamba temples are of great religious importance.
Augustmuni: 18 kms from Rudraprayag, at an altitude of 1000 metres and on the bank of river Mandakini, this is the place were Rishi Agastya meditated for years. A temple by the name of Agasteshwar Mahadev is dedicated to sage Agastya and this temple is also of archaeological significance; figures of Gods and Goddess have been carved out on stones. On the occasion of Baisakhi a large fair is held and many devotees come here to worship and pay their homage to God.
Guptkashi: Guptkashi has a great importance quite like that of Kashi. The ancient Vishwanath temple, Ardhnareshwar temple and Manikarnik Kund, where Ganga River and Yamuna River are believed to meet, are the main places of attraction in Guptkashi. Guptkashi is situated at an elevation of 1319 metres.
Son Prayag: At an elevation of 1829 metres and on the main Kedarnath route, Son Prayag lies at the confluence of river Basuki and river Mandakini. The holy site of Son Prayag is of immense religious significance. It is said that a mere touch of the holy water of Son Prayag helps one to attain the "Baikunth Dham". Kedarnath is at a distance of 19 kms from Son Prayag. Triyuginarayan, another sacred place, is located at a distance of 14 kms from here.
Khirsu: The snow covered mountains of Khirsu offers a panoramic view of the central Himalayas and attracts a large number of tourists. From here one can get a clear view of many named and unnamed peaks. Located 19 kms away from Pauri at an altitude of 1700 metres, Khirsu is a peaceful spot, free from pollution. The tranquility of the adjoining thick Oak and Deodar forests is broken only by chirping of birds. The ancient temple of Ghandiyal Devta in the vicinity is well worth a visit.
Deoria Tal: It is situated about 2 kms from Sari village. This lake has captivating surroundings with forests all around. The reflection of the mighty Chaukhamba peak in the lake creates a beautiful effect.
Chopta: Chopta is one of the most picturesque places in the entire Garhwal region. It provides a breathtaking view of the Himalayan ranges and surrounding areas.
Sandhi Sarovar: A small lake from where Yudhishthira is believed to have departed to heaven is known as Gandhi Sarovar.
Vasuki Tal: Vasuki tal is 8 kms from Kedarnath, at a height of 4135 metres. The lake is surrounded by high mountains and offers an excellent view of the Chaukhamba peak.
Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: It is located in the northern part of the district and covers an area of 966 sq kms. The area is unique in diverse flora and fauna.
Tourism in Rudraprayag District offers a pleasurable experience to the visitors as all its tourist spots are worth exploring.