Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Chopta, Uttarakhand, Tungnath Temple stands as the highest Shiva temple in the world. Situated at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), this sacred site is part of the revered Panch Kedar temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, Tungnath attracts both pilgrims and trekking enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of spirituality and adventure. In this guide, we will explore everything about Tungnath, including its history, trek details, best time to visit, and nearby attractions.
Mythological and Historical Significance
Tungnath Temple holds a prominent place in Hindu mythology. According to legend, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings for atonement. Shiva, avoiding them, transformed into a bull (Nandi) and disappeared into the ground. His body parts later appeared at five different locations, now known as the Panch Kedar temples:
- Kedarnath (hump)
- Tungnath (arms)
- Rudranath (face)
- Madhyamaheshwar (stomach)
- Kalpeshwar (hair)
Believed to be over 1,000 years old, Tungnath Temple is a revered pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of devotees every year.
The Tungnath Trek: Distance, Difficulty, and Route
Trekking Route
- Starting Point: Chopta
- Trek Distance: 3.5 km (2.1 miles)
- Duration: 2-3 hours (one way)
- Trek Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highest Altitude: 3,680 meters (12,073 feet)
The well-paved trail to Tungnath passes through lush green meadows, dense rhododendron forests, and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. En route, trekkers can enjoy panoramic sights of peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath.
Chandrashila Summit: A Must-Visit Extension
For adventure lovers, the trek doesn’t have to stop at Tungnath. Chandrashila Peak, located 1.5 km ahead, is at an altitude of 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). This extra trek takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour from Tungnath and offers a 360-degree view of the Himalayas.
Why Visit Chandrashila?
- Breathtaking sunrise and sunset views
- Mythological significance: Believed to be where Lord Rama meditated
- Birdwatching opportunities: Spot the Himalayan Monal, Uttarakhand’s state bird
Temple Timings and Best Time to Visit
Temple Timings
- Opens: April to November (Exact dates vary due to weather conditions)
- Daily Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Aarti Timings: Morning & Evening
- Winter: The temple remains closed from November to April, and the deity is shifted to Makkumath Village.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (April – June): Pleasant weather, clear skies, ideal for trekking
- Monsoon (July – August): Risk of landslides, trekking not recommended
- Autumn (September – November): Best season, vibrant landscapes, and clear views
- Winter (December – March): Temple closed, but Chopta becomes a snow trekking destination
How to Reach Tungnath?
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (225 km away)
- From Dehradun, hire a cab or take a bus to Chopta.
By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh (209 km) and Haridwar (225 km)
- Take a bus or taxi from Rishikesh/Haridwar to Chopta
By Road
- Chopta is well-connected by roads from major cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.
- Route: Rishikesh – Devprayag – Rudraprayag – Ukhimath – Chopta
- Transport Options: Private taxis, state-run buses, and shared jeeps are available.
Accommodation Options in Chopta
Chopta offers budget-friendly accommodation options, including guesthouses, homestays, and campsites. Some recommended stays are:
- Mayadeep Resort
- Chopta Meadows Camp
- Magpie Jungle Camp
Tip: Due to limited lodging, book your stay in advance, especially in peak season.
Essential Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes with a good grip.
- Carry sufficient water and some energy snacks.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change unexpectedly.
- Start early in the morning to complete the trek in daylight.
- Respect the local culture and environment by avoiding littering.
- Check the weather forecast before planning your trip.
Nearby Attractions
1. Deoria Tal
- A serene lake at 2,438 meters, known for its reflection of Chaukhamba peaks.
- Trek Distance: 2.5 km from Sari Village
2. Madhyamaheshwar Temple
- Another Panch Kedar temple, located at 3,497 meters.
- Trek Distance: 16 km from Ransi Village
3. Kedarnath Temple
- One of the most important Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
- Distance from Chopta: 90 km
Conclusion
A trip to Tungnath Temple in Chopta is an unforgettable experience, blending spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a devotee seeking divine blessings, a trekker chasing panoramic views, or a nature lover exploring Himalayan flora and fauna, this destination has something for everyone.
Plan your trip wisely, embrace the beauty of the Himalayas, and create lifelong memories in this sacred abode of Lord Shiva.
