Urgam, a quaint village nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is cradled within its namesake valley. Situated just 23 kilometers away from the sub-district headquarters and the cantonment town of Joshimath, this idyllic hamlet boasts of its unique charm.
The main highlight of Urgam is the renowned Kalpeshwar Temple, one of the five panch kedars and the most revered shrine in the valley. Unlike other Kedars that remain closed during winter due to heavy snowfall in their higher altitudes (Rudranath in Gopinath, Kedarnath, and Madhyamaheshwar in Onkareshwar, and Tunganath in Makkumath), Kalpeshwar remains accessible throughout the year, thanks to its excellent road connectivity, being only 2 kilometers away from the village.
The village has earned its reputation as a cherished destination for meditating sages. Legend has it that the sage Arghya performed intense austerities here and created the nymph, Urvashi. Furthermore, Rishi Durvasa is believed to have meditated under the wish-fulfilling tree, Kalpavriksha. From Urgam, one can embark on several enchanting treks to various locations, such as Rudranath via Dumamk and Panar, Chenap Valley, Ginni Glacier, Panpatia Glacier, Nandikund, and Madhmaheshwar via Bansinarayan, and Sona Shikhar.
The village treats visitors to not only vast terrace fields and immaculate orchards but also breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Hathi Parvat.
Throughout the year, the villagers celebrate major festivals with great enthusiasm, including Nandashtami Mela, Shivaratri, Shiva Parvati Vivah, and Bansi Narayan Mela. While agriculture, horticulture, and cattle rearing form the primary occupations of the villagers, the increasing popularity of Himalayan treks and religious tourism has provided additional avenues for income generation.
About the village
DAY 1:- RISHIKESH TO URGAM
We will convene in Rishikesh at a predetermined location to commence our journey. Our route will take us along the Rishikesh Badrinath highway, with the magnificent Ganga River flowing on our right, until we reach Devprayag. There, we will stop for breakfast and continue our course along the Alaknanda River. Passing through the towns of Srinagar, Gauchar, and Pipalkoti, we will traverse four significant Prayags of Uttarakhand: Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandaprayag.
Once we reach the Badrinath highway, there will be a road on the left leading to Urgam village, situated 12 kilometers from Helang, in the serene Alaknanda valley.
Upon arriving at the Home Stay in Urgam, you will receive a warm traditional welcome drink, and your accommodation will be assigned. After taking some rest, you can explore the area in the evening, visiting either the Bansi Narayan Temple or the Dhyan Badri Temple (one of the Panch Badri of Uttarakhand), both conveniently located within walking distance. We will return to the home stay for a delectable dinner and call it a day. Additionally, Urgam village provides an excellent opportunity for stargazing.
DAY 2:- A DAY IN URGAM
After enjoying an early morning tea, we will proceed to visit the Kalpeshwar Temple. On our way back, we will make a stop at a nearby waterfall, where we can indulge in meditation amidst the tranquil surroundings. It is considered auspicious to spot a snake within the temple premises. Following a refreshing bath in the waterfall, we will return to the Home Stay.
A hearty Pahaadi breakfast awaits us at the Home Stay, featuring local delicacies such as Mandua roti (a gluten-free flatbread made from local millets) and leafy vegetables, all complemented by a hot cup of tea. With our appetites satisfied, we will embark on a village tour, discovering the traditional mud-plastered houses with stone-covered roofs. The village's serene and remote nature provides an excellent opportunity to detox from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Immerse yourself in the authentic farming experience by assisting the locals with deweeding, ploughing, or harvesting, depending on the season of your visit. Additionally, we will explore the village's architecture and places of historical significance. Lunch will be served hot at the Home Stay. During the evening, feel free to wander around the village, engaging with the locals to learn about their culture and listening to the fascinating stories shared by the elder community members. Optionally, we can also visit the Bansi Narayan Temple. Upon returning to the Home Stay, you have the opportunity to assist your host in meal preparation or simply unwind and enjoy some leisurely time.
DAY 3:- URGAM TO RISHIKESH
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will say our farewells to the picturesque village and its welcoming residents. Then, we will board our vehicle and begin our journey back to Rishikesh. A lunch stop will be made along the way. As the day draws to a close, our tour will conclude upon reaching the bustling town of Rishikesh in the evening. From there, we will part ways, each of us heading to our individual destinations, all the while secretly longing to return to the embrace of the majestic Himalayas. To avoid any potential traffic-related delays, we recommend scheduling your next trip for after 7 p.m.
INCLUSIONS
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All meals during the stay. ( General nutritious meal )
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Accommodation in homestay.
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Local sightseeing and experience.
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Tour leader and support staff.
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Transport from Rishikesh to Urgam and back to Rishikesh.
EXCLUSIONS
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Meals during road transit i.e. meals during travel from Rishikesh to Urgam and vice versa.
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Any kind of medical insurance.
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Any personal expenses.
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Any expense not specified in inclusions.
TREK USP
