Panch Prayag refers to the five sacred river confluences on the Alaknanda River in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India, All these confluences hold great religious and spiritual significance in Hinduism. Here are the five Prayags, listed in order from the source of the Alaknanda to its confluence with the Bhagirathi at Devprayag to form River Ganga.
Vishnuprayag – Confluence: Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers.
Significance: Named after Lord Vishnu, who is believed to have appeared here. A Vishnu temple is situated near the confluence.
Location: Near Joshimath.
Nandaprayag – Confluence: Alaknanda and Nandakini rivers.
Significance: Named after King Nanda, who performed yagnas (rituals) here.
Location: Between Chamoli and Karnaprayag.
Karnaprayag – Confluence: Alaknanda and Pindar rivers.
Significance: Associated with Karna from the Mahabharata, who is believed to have meditated here. A temple dedicated to Karna stands at the confluence.
Location: On the way to Badrinath.
Rudraprayag – Confluence: Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
Significance: Named after Lord Shiva, who is said to have appeared here in the form of Rudra. The Rudranath Temple is a key attraction.
Location: En route to Kedarnath.
Devprayag – Confluence: Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers.
Significance: Marks the beginning of the sacred Ganga River. It is a prominent pilgrimage site with temples, including the Raghunathji Temple.
Location: Near Rishikesh.
Spiritual Importance – Panch Prayag is part of the larger Char Dham Yatra, which includes visits to Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Pilgrims believe bathing in these confluences purifies the soul and helps achieve moksha (liberation).The journey through these spots offers not only religious fulfillment but also breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscapes.