Tungnath Temple – One of the Highest Shiva Temples in the World
Introduction
Imagine walking through a misty forest, climbing slowly on stone-paved trails decorated with red rhododendron flowers, and then arriving at a centuries-old temple standing tall at 12,073 ft. That is Tungnath Mahadev Temple, one of the highest Shiva temples in the world and a very sacred place for Hindus.
Tungnath is not just about faith. It is a place where mythology, nature, and adventure come together. The moment you hear the temple bells echoing against snow-covered peaks, you feel like the Himalayas themselves are chanting “Har Har Mahadev.”
History & Mythology of Tungnath
The word Tungnath means Lord of the Peaks. According to ancient legends, Tungnath is part of the famous Panch Kedar temples connected to the Pandavas from Mahabharata.
After the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas wanted forgiveness from Lord Shiva for killing their own relatives. Lord Shiva, avoiding them, disguised himself as a bull (Nandi). He dived into the earth at Kedarnath and reappeared in parts at five different places in the Garhwal Himalayas:
Hump: Kedarnath
Arms: Tungnath
Face: Rudranath
Navel & stomach: Madhyamaheshwar
Hair (jata): Kalpeshwar
Together, these shrines are called the Panch Kedar. Tungnath, being the highest among them, holds very special importance.
It is believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas themselves, and later Adi Shankaracharya rediscovered it. Even today, pilgrims climb up to Tungnath to seek blessings of Lord Shiva and find peace in the Himalayas.
Architecture of Tungnath Temple
Tungnath Temple may look small compared to the grand temples of the plains, but it carries an aura that feels timeless. Built in black stone, with a simple yet powerful design, it is believed to be more than 1000 years old.
Inside the sanctum lies the Shivling, symbolizing the arms of Lord Shiva. Around the main shrine, there are smaller temples dedicated to Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Rishi Vyas, and other deities. Despite its small size, the spiritual energy here feels larger than life.
👉 At 12,073 ft, Tungnath is the highest among the Panch Kedar temples and one of the highest Shiva temples in the entire world.
Tungnath Trek – The Journey to Divinity
Reaching Tungnath is a pilgrimage and a trek at the same time. The trek starts from Chopta, also known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.”
Trek Distance: 3.5 km one way
Duration: 2–3 hours (depending on fitness)
Level: Easy to moderate (great for beginners and families)
Altitude: 12,073 ft
The trail is well-paved with stones, surrounded by pine and rhododendron forests. In spring (April–May), the path glows with red rhododendron flowers. In winter (Dec–Feb), the same trail is covered in thick snow, making it a paradise for snow trekkers.
Weather at Tungnath
Summer (April–June): Pleasant, perfect for trekking & temple visit (10–20°C).
Monsoon (July–Sept): Heavy rain, landslides possible, not recommended.
Autumn (Oct–Nov): Cool weather, clear skies, best for Himalayan views.
Winter (Dec–March): Heavy snow, temple remains closed but trek route open.
During winters, the idol of Lord Shiva is shifted to Mukunath Temple in Ukhimath for worship.
Best Time to Visit Tungnath Temple
April to June: Best for devotees & trekkers.
September to November: Clear views of peaks and peaceful environment.
December to March: For snow lovers (temple closed but trek is open).
Festivals at Tungnath
Maha Shivratri: Celebrated with special pujas and chants.
Shravan Month: Devotees throng the temple during this holy period.
Opening Ceremony (April/May): Idol is brought from Ukhimath in a grand ritual.
Nearby Attractions
Chandrashila Peak (1.5 km from Tungnath): Famous for its sunrise and 360° Himalayan views.
Deoria Tal (20 km from Chopta): A crystal-clear lake reflecting snow peaks.
Ukhimath (25 km): Winter home of Lord Tungnath and Lord Kedarnath.
Rudraprayag (60 km): Sacred confluence of rivers Alaknanda & Mandakini.
How to Reach Tungnath
By Road: Drive till Chopta, then trek 3.5 km.
By Train: Nearest railway station – Haridwar (225 km).
By Air: Nearest airport – Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (210 km).
From Haridwar/Rishikesh: Around 7–8 hours drive to Chopta.
Stay Options Near Tungnath
Camps & homestays in Chopta (base village).
Hotels & guesthouses in Ukhimath or Sari.
Seasonal lodges/tea houses near the temple (open only in summer).
Food at Tungnath
There are no restaurants at the temple itself.
Small dhabas along serve tea, Maggi, parathas, and rice-dal.
In Chopta, homestays and dhabas serve simple vegetarian meals.
Carry dry fruits, water, and snacks for the trek.
Nearest Hospitals & Facilities
Primary health care in Ukhimath (25 km).
Bigger hospitals in Rudraprayag (60 km).
Carry medicines and first aid as medical facilities are very limited.
Travel Tips for Tungnath
Start trek early in the morning for best views.
Carry warm clothes even in summer (nights are cold).
Wear good trekking shoes (snow grip shoes in winter).
Mobile networks: Jio & BSNL work better.
Carry cash (no ATM near Chopta/Tungnath).
Respect local traditions & keep the trail clean.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why is Tungnath famous?
👉 It is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world and part of the Panch Kedar.
Q2. How long is the Tungnath trek?
👉 About 3.5 km from Chopta, takes 2–3 hours.
Q3. Can beginners do the Tungnath trek?
👉 Yes, it is easy to moderate and suitable for families.
Q4. When does Tungnath Temple remain closed?
👉 From November to March due to snow. Idol is shifted to Ukhimath.
Q5. Is Chandrashila worth visiting after Tungnath?
👉 Absolutely! It is just 1.5 km further and offers incredible sunrise views.
Conclusion
Tungnath Temple is not just a shrine; it’s a journey of faith and beauty. Whether you go there seeking blessings of Lord Shiva or to enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan views, the experience stays with you forever. Standing at this ancient temple, surrounded by silence and snow peaks, you realize why sages, devotees, and travelers have been climbing up to Tungnath for centuries — because here, the mountains themselves feel alive with divinity.
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