Tungnath Temple is the highest Shiva temple in the world, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. At an altitude of about 3,690 meters, it is part of the famous Panch Kedar temples and holds immense spiritual and historical importance. Every year, thousands of devotees and trekkers visit Tungnath to seek blessings and enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan views.
Table of Contents
History and Significance of Tungnath Temple
Mythological Connection: According to legends, the Pandavas built Tungnath temple to atone for their sins after the Kurukshetra war.
Panch Kedar: Tungnath is the third temple in the Panch Kedar circuit, after Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar.
Architecture: The temple is built in North Indian style with stone walls and a small sanctum.
Deity: Lord Shiva is worshipped here as the “Lord of the Peaks.”
Tungnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates
Opening Date: Late April or early May (on Akshaya Tritiya).
Closing Date: Around Diwali or Bhai Dooj in October–November.
Winter Worship: During winter, the idol of Lord Shiva is shifted to Makkumath village, where rituals continue.
Tungnath Temple Timings
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 6:00 AM |
| Morning Arti | 6:00 AM |
| Darshan Hours | 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Evening Arti | 6:30 PM |
| Temple Closes | 7:00 PM |
Morning aarti is peaceful and spiritually uplifting.
Evening aarti is performed with lamps and chants, creating a divine atmosphere.
Morning arti is considered highly auspicious.
Afternoon closure allows priests to perform special rituals.
Evening arti is a serene experience with lamps and hymns.
Suggest: Haridwar to Tungnath Taxi
Chopta Tungnath Trek - Journey to the Highest Shiva Temple
Start Point: Chopta, known as “Mini Switzerland of India.”
Distance: 3.5 km trek to Tungnath temple.
Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for beginners with basic fitness.
Duration: 2–3 hours depending on pace.
Extension: 1.5 km further trek to Chandrashila peak, offering panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath peaks.
Best Time to Visit Tungnath Temple
Summer (May–June): Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking.
Autumn (Sept–Oct): Clear skies, best for photography.
Monsoon (July–Aug): Risk of landslides, avoid if possible.
Winter (Nov–Apr): Temple closed, heavy snowfall covers the region.
Suggest Read: Kedarnath Temple
Accommodation Near Tungnath Temple
Chopta: Guesthouses, lodges, and camps available.
Ukhimath: GMVN rest houses and hotels.
Camping: Popular among trekkers near Chopta meadows.
Advance Booking: Recommended during peak season.
Festivals and Rituals at Tungnath Temple
Maha Shivratri: Special poojas and celebrations.
Shravan Month: Devotees visit for holy rituals.
Daily Arti: Morning and evening, with chants and offerings.
How to Reach Tungnath Temple
- Air: Nearest airport Jolly Grant, Dehradun.
- By Train: Rishikesh railway station is the closest.
- By Road: Reach Chopta via Ukhimath or Rudraprayag (you can also hire a Haridwar taxi service to reach Chopta), then trek to Tungnath.
Suggest Read: Char Dham Opening & Closing Date
Travel Tips for Devotees and Trekkers
Fitness: Prepare for a moderate trek; carry energy snacks and water.
Clothing: Warm clothes, rain gear, trekking shoes.
Essentials: Torch, medicines, ID proof.
Altitude Precaution: Acclimatize properly to avoid fatigue.
Local Guides: Available at Chopta for assistance.
Nearby Attractions
Chandrashila Peak: 1.5 km trek from Tungnath, famous for sunrise views.
Deoria Tal: A beautiful lake near Sari village, reflecting Himalayan peaks.
Chopta Meadows: Lush green landscapes, perfect for camping.
Other Panch Kedar Temples: Kedarnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, Kalpeshwar.
Suggest Read: How to Reach Kedarnath Temple
FAQs For Tungnath Temple
Q: Is Tungnath the highest Shiva temple?
Ans. Yes, at 3,690 meters, it is the highest Shiva temple in the world.
Q: How long is the trek?
Ans. About 3.5 km from Chopta, plus 1.5 km to Chandrashila.
Q: When does the temple close?
Ans. Around Diwali or Bhai Dooj in late October or November.
Q: Can I visit in winter?
Ans. The temple is closed, but Chopta and Chandrashila remain accessible for trekking.
Conclusion
The Tungnath temple is not just a place of worship but also a destination for adventure and peace. Its unique location, rich mythology, and breathtaking surroundings make it a must‑visit for both devotees and trekkers. Plan your journey according to the temple timings, opening and closing dates, and prepare well for the trek.
Sachin Kumar works as a travel content writer with SRG Holidays Pvt. Ltd. a leading company in India’s tourism and pilgrimage services. With years of experience, he creates clear and engaging travel guides that help pilgrims and travelers across the country find reliable information for their journeys.
