Himalayan Sunrise at Kunjapuri Temple

If you're looking for a truly special morning in Rishikesh, the Kunjapuri Temple sunrise trek is highly recommended.

Kunjapuri Temple is located about 28km from Rishikesh, at the summit of a hill approximately 1,650m above sea level. Behind the temple rise the Himalayas, and in front you can look down on Rishikesh and the Ganges River.

The itinerary involves an early morning drive close to the summit, followed by a walk down village paths once the sun is up. It's a great fit for travelers who enjoy walking and want to cherish the morning scenery of a destination.

Witnessing the Himalayan Sunrise from a 1,650m Temple

The tour begins in the early morning with a drive of about an hour from Rishikesh to Kunjapuri Temple. This temple, dedicated to the goddess Shakti, is considered highly sacred by locals.

As you wait for the sun at the viewpoint, you'll see the first rays of light touch the snow-capped peaks of Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Bandarpunch. Below you, the Ganga (Ganges) valley spreads out, making it a great time for photos.

However, mountain weather can change rapidly. On days with dense clouds or fog, the sun and snow-capped mountains might not be clearly visible.

Descent Trek Through Villages and Forests

After sunrise, you'll walk down the hill on foot. The route covers approximately 8-10km or about 9km of downhill trekking, depending on the tour.

The path winds through local villages, forests, and terraced fields. Walking amidst traditional homes and farms offers an intimate glimpse into the rural life of the Garhwal region.

The trek ends near a waterfall in the forest, and depending on the tour, you may stop at Neer Waterfall to rest or enjoy a swim.

Things to Know Before Your Kunjapuri Sunrise Trek

To catch the sunrise, departures are quite early, usually between 4:30 AM and 5:30 AM. You can choose tours that offer hotel pickups or depart from Ram Jhula or Tapovan, depending on your accommodation's location.

All tours are accompanied by an English-speaking guide. Whether breakfast and hiking poles are included varies by tour. Since you'll be walking a long way downhill, it's a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

Participation restrictions based on age, pregnancy, or fitness levels also differ between tours, so be sure to confirm before booking. If you wish to start your day with the sun rising over the Himalayas, head to Kunjapuri in Rishikesh.