The Panch Prayag refers to five sacred confluences in Uttarakhand where different rivers merge before forming the holy River Ganga. These five Prayags — Vishnuprayag, Nandaprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag — hold immense spiritual significance for devotees. It is believed that taking a dip in the waters at these confluences purifies the soul, washes away sins, and brings peace. Each Prayag beautifully represents the harmony between nature and faith, symbolizing unity, devotion, and liberation from worldly attachments (moksha). Vishnuprayag – Where the Holy Rivers First Meet Vishnuprayag is the first confluence among the five holy Prayags of Uttarakhand. Here, the Alaknanda River, flowing from the Satopanth Glacier near Mana village, meets the Dhauliganga River, which originates near the Niti Pass close to the Indo-Tibet border. Bathing is not permitted due to the strong water currents, but pilgrims visit to offer prayers and witness this divine union of rivers. Vishnuprayag marks the starting point of the Panch Prayag Yatra and lies on the road to Badrinath Dham. Location: Religious History & Beliefs:According to legend, Sage Narada meditated here to please Lord Vishnu. The Lord appeared and blessed this confluence with divine energy. The ancient Vishnu Temple, built by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, stands near the confluence. Devotees believe that a holy dip here purifies the soul, removes sins, and grants peace and protection. Vishnuprayag beautifully symbolizes the union of divine power and natural beauty. What to See Near Vishnuprayag: Nandaprayag – The Place of Peace and Devotion Nandaprayag is the second confluence among the Panch Prayag. It is where the Alaknanda River, flowing from Satopanth Glacier near Badrinath, merges with the Nandakini River, originating from the Nandaghunti Glacier near Trishul Peak. This peaceful site is known for its calm surroundings and spiritual purity. Bathing is allowed here, and it is believed that a dip in these sacred waters cleanses sins and brings peace to the soul. Nandaprayag lies on the Badrinath Highway, making it a key stop on the Yatra. Location: Religious History & Beliefs:According to belief, King Nanda, the foster father of Lord Krishna, performed a yagna (holy ritual) here to please Lord Vishnu. The confluence was named after him, and devotees believe that bathing here brings harmony, happiness, and divine grace. What to See Near Nandaprayag: Karnaprayag – The Land of Strength and Faith Karnaprayag is the third sacred confluence where the Alaknanda River, descending from Satopanth Glacier, meets the Pindar River, originating from the Pindari Glacier in the Kumaon region. Surrounded by lush valleys and mountain slopes, it radiates serenity and devotion. Bathing is permitted, and devotees believe a dip here brings strength, courage, and spiritual purification. Location: Religious History & Beliefs:According to Hindu mythology, Karna, the great warrior from the Mahabharata, meditated here to please the Sun God (Surya). The Sun God granted him the Kavach (armor) and Kundal (earrings), making him invincible. Hence, the place was named Karnaprayag, symbolizing bravery, sacrifice, and devotion. Praying here is believed to remove negativity and instill inner strength. What to See Near Karnaprayag: Rudraprayag – The Meeting Point Blessed by Lord Shiva Rudraprayag is the fourth confluence of the Panch Prayag and marks the meeting of the Alaknanda River from Satopanth Glacier and the Mandakini River from the Chorabari Glacier near Kedarnath. Named after Lord Shiva (Rudra), this place is filled with divine energy. The merging rivers create a spectacular and peaceful sight that fills the air with spiritual vibrations. Location: Religious History & Beliefs:As per legend, Lord Shiva appeared here as Rudra to bless Sage Narada, who meditated to learn music. It is also believed that Goddess Parvati performed penance here to win Shiva’s heart. Rudraprayag symbolizes spiritual awakening and transformation. A dip in the holy waters is said to remove sins and grant inner peace. What to See Near Rudraprayag: Devprayag – Where the Ganga Begins Her Sacred Journey Devprayag is the fifth and final confluence of the Panch Prayag. Here, the Alaknanda River from Satopanth Glacier meets the Bhagirathi River from Gaumukh Glacier near Gangotri. Their union marks the birth of the holy River Ganga. Surrounded by steep hills and ancient temples, Devprayag is one of the most sacred spots in the Himalayas. Location: Religious History & Beliefs:According to mythology, King Bhagirath performed penance here to bring the River Ganga down from heaven to purify his ancestors’ souls. The Ganga is believed to have first touched Earth at Devprayag, making it her spiritual birthplace. The town is also named after Sage Devasharma, who attained enlightenment here. Taking a dip at the confluence is said to wash away sins and grant moksha (liberation). What to See Near Devprayag: Devprayag marks the sacred beginning of the Ganga’s journey, symbolizing divine unity and eternal life. How to Reach Panch Prayag: By Air, Rail & Road By Air: By Rail: By Road: Recommended Travel Route: Rishikesh → Joshimath via Panch Prayag Route Distance Time Highlight Rishikesh → Devprayag 90 km 3 hrs Birthplace of River Ganga Devprayag → Rudraprayag 70 km 3 hrs Blessed by Lord Shiva Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag 35 km 1.5 hrs Associated with Karna Karnaprayag → Nandaprayag 20 km 1 hr Symbol of Peace Nandaprayag → Vishnuprayag 75 km 3 hrs Blessed by Lord Vishnu Vishnuprayag → Joshimath 12 km 30 mins Base for Auli & Badrinath Total Distance: 302 kmTotal Drive Time: 13 hours (excluding stops and traffic) Best Time to Visit & Seasonal Insights Summer (April – June): Monsoon (July – August): Autumn (September – November): Winter (December – March): Top Stopovers, Food Points & Viewpoints Along the Route Rishikesh → Devprayag (90 km / 3 hrs) Devprayag → Rudraprayag (70 km / 3 hrs) Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag (35 km / 1.5 hrs) Karnaprayag → Nandaprayag (20 km / 1 hr) Nandaprayag → Vishnuprayag (75 km / 3 hrs) Vishnuprayag → Joshimath (12 km / 30 mins) Why Choose Clan Stays for Your Panch Prayag Trip Clan Stays ensures a comfortable, safe, and seamless journey through all five Prayags. 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