Tungnath Temple – The World’s Highest Shiva Temple in Uttarakhan
Tungnath Temple, located in Chopta, Uttarakhand, is a sacred Hindu shrine and the highest Shiva temple in the world. At an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,106 feet), this temple draws both devotees and trekkers. It’s not just a pilgrimage site — it’s a unique mix of spirituality and natural beauty.
Tungnath is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage, making it highly important in Hinduism. The name “Tungnath” means “Lord of the Peaks.” This holy site opens during summer and closes in winter due to heavy snowfall.
Its surroundings offer stunning views and peaceful vibes. These make it perfect for reflection and relaxation. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, the temple blends history, spirituality, and adventure.
The trek to Tungnath is short yet fulfilling. Whether you are a pilgrim or nature lover, this place has something for everyone. To make your journey even more memorable, book your stay at Chaukhamba Camp Stay — the top-rated campsite near the temple.
Where is Tungnath Temple Located?
Tungnath lies in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It sits in the heart of Chopta, often called the “Mini Switzerland of India.”
The temple stands at an altitude of 3,680 meters. It is surrounded by meadows and forests, and offers views of peaks like Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. Chopta is the base village for the trek to Tungnath. From there, a 3.5 km trail leads to the temple.
Chopta is well connected by road to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath. You can reach it by car or shared taxi from these towns. The trail to the temple passes through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests.
This location is also part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, so you might see rare birds and animals during the trek. The peaceful environment and natural beauty add to the temple’s charm.
The trek is moderate and suitable for beginners. Many families and solo travelers visit each year. You’ll find it to be the perfect mix of ease and excitement.
To rest before or after your trek, consider staying at Chaukhamba Camp Stay. It’s just minutes away from the trail and offers cozy tents, warm food, and beautiful mountain views.
Why is Tungnath Temple Famous?
Tungnath Temple holds a special place for many reasons. It’s the highest Shiva temple in the world, which attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. It is also one of the Panch Kedar temples.
According to legend, the Pandavas from the Mahabharata built this temple. They came here to seek forgiveness for their sins. Lord Shiva appeared to them in parts, and his arms are believed to have surfaced at Tungnath.
The temple’s peaceful location and mythological roots give it deep spiritual value. It also has a unique stone architecture that blends perfectly with its Himalayan backdrop.
Pilgrims believe that praying here brings peace and blessings. Many also say that wishes made here come true. It’s not only about religion — the beauty of the place makes it perfect for quiet reflection.
Travelers, nature lovers, and photographers visit it for different reasons. Some come for the hike, others for the stories, and many for both.
The calm and clean environment is a break from busy city life. Even the trek to reach the temple is part of the charm.
Make your trip more special by staying at Chaukhamba Camp Stay. It’s the best place to relax after your trek, with food, bonfires, and a local experience.
History and Mythology of Tungnath Temple
Tungnath Temple is linked to ancient stories. According to the Mahabharata, the Pandavas came to the Himalayas to ask Lord Shiva for forgiveness.
To avoid them, Shiva took the form of a bull and disappeared into the earth. His body parts later appeared in five different places, now known as the Panch Kedar temples.
His arms were found at Tungnath. The Pandavas then built this temple at that spot. This story makes the temple not just holy, but also a part of living history.
The temple is over 1,000 years old. It was built during the Katyuri dynasty and has been a place of worship ever since.
Unlike the other Panch Kedar temples, Tungnath is served by local priests from Makkumath. During winter, when snow covers the temple, the idol is moved to Makkumath for continued worship.
This tradition keeps the spiritual energy of the temple alive all year. Locals play a big role in preserving these customs.
Visitors often say they feel a strong sense of peace and connection here. The mix of history, legend, and nature makes Tungnath a truly magical place.
For a peaceful stay nearby, choose Chaukhamba Camp Stay. It’s perfect for guests who want comfort, views, and easy access to the temple trail.
Distances to Tungnath Temple from Major Cities
o reach Tungnath, you first need to get to Chopta. Here’s how far Chopta is from popular cities:
Chopta to Tungnath Temple: 3.5 km (trek)
Rishikesh to Chopta: 200 km
Haridwar to Chopta: 225 km
Delhi to Chopta: 450 km
You can travel by train or bus to Haridwar or Rishikesh. From there, taxis or shared cabs take you to Chopta.
The road journey is scenic but involves mountain driving. Hiring a local driver is a safe and smart option.
Once in Chopta, the trek to the temple begins. The path is stone-paved and well-marked. It takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on your speed.
If you feel adventurous, you can continue the trek to Chandrashila Peak. It’s just 1.5 km ahead of Tungnath and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.
Chopta has many places to stay, but Chaukhamba Camp Stay stands out. It’s close to the trekking point and offers great hospitality.
Book early during peak seasons to get the best experience and avoid last-minute hassles.
Best Time to Visit & Seasonal Highlights
The ideal time to visit Tungnath Temple is from April to November. During this time, the weather is good and the temple stays open.
In summer (April to June), the weather is pleasant. You’ll see rhododendrons and green meadows. The skies are usually clear, giving great views of the mountains.
Monsoon (July to September) brings fresh greenery, but also rain and slippery trails. It’s best to check weather forecasts before planning a trip during this time.
Autumn (October to November) is perfect for photographers. The air is crisp, and the trees turn golden. It’s less crowded too.
From mid-November, the temple closes due to snow. The idol is moved to Makkumath, where rituals continue until spring.
In winter, Chopta becomes a snow-covered wonderland. Though the temple is closed, many trekkers visit for the snowy trails and scenic views.
Festivals like Maha Shivratri and the Shravan month attract more visitors. These times add to the spiritual feel of the trip.
For the best trip, plan early and book your stay at Chaukhamba Camp Stay. Enjoy warm food, starry nights, and mountain views — all close to the temple.
If you’d like to dive deeper into the history, mythology, and significance of Tungnath Temple, you can visit its official Wikipedia page for more detailed insights
