The Tungnath Temple is not only the highest Shiva temple in the world, but it is a marvel that not only attracts devotees from different regions of the world, but also people who wish to see the majestic and mythical allure of the temple. Uttarakhand can be considered one of the pious lands with numerous temples, and the Tungnath Temple, located on the Chandranath Mountain, is one of the panch Kedar temples present in the region.
If you are making a visit to all the temples of the Panch Kedars, then Tungnath is the third temple where you need to offer your prayers. Situated at a height of 3680 metres above sea level, this temple is considered to have a history that dates back 1000 years. Now, to visit this temple properly, you need to have all the basic information related to the same, and this guide will make sure that you can complete your visit without any troubles.
History of the Tungnath Temple
The Panch Kedar, a group of five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, are present in the Garhwal of Uttarakhand, and the Tungnath is the third temple in this circuit. According to the history of the temple, it was constructed by the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra war came to an end to atone for the sin of killing their relatives in the war. Even though the temple is the highest of the Panch Kedars, the trek to the temple is one of the easiest that people have to complete.
Getting to the Tungnath Temple – Your Trekking Guide
It is not very difficult for you to complete the trek to Tungnath Temple, and if you are not sure how to start your trek, these instructions are your guide.
- Base Camp – The trek to the Tungnath temple begins in a small town called Chopta, which is also referred to as the ‘Switzerland of India’ owing to the stunning views and green meadows present there.
- The Trek – You only need to walk a distance of 3.5 – 4 km from Chopta to Tungnath, and the best part is that the entire path is well-laid with stones, making it easier for trekkers to reach the Tungnath Temple. Even if you face difficulties, the trek will not take more than 3-4 hours to complete.
- Summer (April–June): Pleasant weather and clear skies, ideal for trekking.
- Autumn (September–November): Crisp mountain air with golden hues in the meadows.
- Winter (December–March): The temple is closed due to heavy snowfall, but the snow-covered landscapes attract trekkers who enjoy winter trails.
Accommodation and Facilities
You won’t find luxury hotels near Tungnath, but guesthouses and budget lodges are available at Chopta and nearby villages. During peak trekking season, tents and camps are also popular among travelers. Carry warm clothing, trekking shoes, and basic medicines since facilities are limited at high altitudes.
Nearby Attractions
- Chopta Meadows: Perfect for camping and birdwatching.
- Deoria Tal Lake: A crystal-clear lake reflecting Chaukhamba peaks, about 2 km trek from Sari village.
- Rudraprayag: Confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, en route to Chopta.
- Ukshimath: Winter seat of Lord Kedarnath and an important pilgrimage stop.
Travel Tips
- Start your trek early in the morning for clear skies and better views.
- Carry enough water and energy snacks since shops are limited along the trail.
- The temple remains closed in winter, and the deity is moved to Makkumath village.
Mobile connectivity is weak, so inform family in advance.
Visiting Tungnath Temple is more than just a trek—it’s a spiritual and soul-stirring journey through the Himalayas. Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveler chasing mountain views, this temple is bound to leave you enchanted. For more such unexplored travel guides and destination tips, you can explore triphippies.com.
