Panch Prayag
Panch Prayag (पंच प्रयाग) is a pilgrimage circuit of five sacred confluences (prayag) in Uttarakhand, India.
Overview
The Panch Prayag refers to five sacred river confluences in the Garhwal Himalayas where the Alaknanda River meets other rivers. The five prayags are: Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag, and Vishnuprayag. Each confluence is considered highly sacred for ritual bathing and is believed to cleanse sins.
History and Legend
According to Hindu mythology, the Alaknanda River originates from the feet of Lord Vishnu at Badrinath. The river flows through these five confluences before becoming the Ganges at Devprayag. Each prayag is associated with various myths and legends. Devprayag is where the Alaknanda meets the Bhagirathi to form the Ganges, while Rudraprayag is where the Mandakini joins.
Architecture and Features
Each prayag features a ghat (riverfront steps) for ritual bathing and small temples dedicated to various deities. Devprayag has a temple of Raghunathji, Rudraprayag has a temple of Rudra (Shiva), and Vishnuprayag has a temple of Vishnu. The confluences are marked by distinct water colors where rivers merge.
Modern Status
The Panch Prayag is an important part of the Uttarakhand pilgrimage circuit. All five prayags are accessible by road, though some require short walks. The circuit is particularly popular during the Kumbh Mela at Haridwar and the annual Char Dham Yatraa](/entry/yatra) season.
Verification Notes
- Panch Prayag documented as five sacred confluences in Uttarakhand.
- Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).