Tungnath Temple Uttarakhand Blog History Highest Shiva Temple Trekking Routes & Spiritual Guide
Prabhuling jiroli
The Tungnath Temple, perched at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 ft) in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is the highest Shiva temple in the world and one of the revered Panch Kedar shrines. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and meadows, this temple offers a divine blend of adventure and spirituality.
🏛️ Historical Significance of Tungnath Temple
✨ Early to Medieval Period
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The temple's origins are associated with the Mahabharata era.
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Legend says the Pandavas built this temple to atone for the sin of killing their relatives in the Kurukshetra war.
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Tungnath represents the arms of Lord Shiva, one of the five parts of the deity worshipped across Panch Kedar.
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Its construction style reflects North Indian stone architecture, believed to be over 1,000 years old.
🙏 Religious & Cultural Significance
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Considered the third Kedar in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit.
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Worshiped as Lord Shiva in his arm form.
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The priest here is a local Brahmin from Makkumath, unlike other Panch Kedar temples where South Indian priests serve.
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Temple remains closed during winter, and worship shifts to Makkumath village.
🚗 How to Reach Tungnath Temple
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Road | Reach Chopta from Rishikesh (200 km) or Haridwar (225 km) via Rudraprayag. Buses/taxis available. |
| By Train | Nearest station: Haridwar Railway Station (225 km). |
| By Air | Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (220 km). |
🥾 Trekking to Tungnath Temple
| From | Distance | Trek Duration | Route Highlights |
| Chopta | 3.5 km | 2 – 3 hours | Paved uphill trail with scenic alpine views |
| Chandrashila (optional extension) | +1.5 km | 1 hour (from Tungnath) | View of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba |
🧘 Tip: The trail is moderate and beginner-friendly but involves steep ascents and high altitudes. Acclimatization is advised.
🧭 Temple Visit & Timings
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Open: April/May to October/November (dates vary with weather)
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Closed: During heavy snowfall (winter months)
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Darshan Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (subject to daylight)
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Best Time for Trek/Darshan: May to June, and September to October
📸 Architecture Highlights
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Built with grey granite stones, compact yet elegant
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Small sanctum housing the Shiva lingam
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No electricity, basic lamps used in rituals
🌄 Why You Must Visit Tungnath Temple
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🕉️ Highest Shiva temple in the world
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🏞️ Mesmerizing trek through pine forests and meadows
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🙏 One of the sacred Panch Kedar pilgrimage sites
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🌄 Sunrise view from Chandrashila is unforgettable
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❄️ Enjoy snow trek and scenic winter trails (off-season)
⛅ Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
| May – June | Best weather for trekking and darshan |
| July – August | Rainy, landslide-prone, not recommended |
| September – Nov | Post-monsoon clarity, ideal for Chandrashila peak |
| Winter (Dec – Mar) | Temple closed, but snow trek to base is possible |
🧳 What to Carry
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Trekking shoes, walking stick, layered woolen clothes
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Water bottle, snacks, flashlight
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Sunglasses, sunscreen, rain jacket (depending on season)
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ID proof for check posts or registration
✅ Do’s and ❌ Don’ts
✅ Do:
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Start trek early in the day
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Keep hydrated and acclimatize at Chopta
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Book homestays/lodges in Chopta in advance
❌ Don’t:
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Don’t overpack; carry only essentials
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Don’t litter the trails – follow eco-friendly practices
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Don’t skip warm-up if you're not used to altitude
Nearby Attractions
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🗻 Chandrashila Peak – Summit point with 270° Himalayan view
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🌲 Deoria Tal – Crystal-clear high-altitude lake
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🏞️ Ukhimath – Winter seat of Kedarnath and Tungnath deities
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🌳 Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary – For nature lovers
📅 Quick Info Table
| Detail | Info |
| Location | Tungnath, Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand |
| Deity | Lord Shiva (Arm form – Panch Kedar) |
| Best Season | May to June, September to October |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Nearest Base Camp | Chopta (3.5 km trek) |
| Nearest Station | Haridwar (225 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant, Dehradun (220 km) |
📸 Final Thoughts
The Tungnath Temple is not just a pilgrimage – it's a soul-elevating journey into the heart of the Himalayas. With its ancient roots, sacred energy, and breathtaking views, it remains a must-visit for trekkers, yogis, and Shiva devotees alike.
🚀 Experience divinity above the clouds – trek to Tungnath, the crown of Shiva’s Himalayas!