Tungnath Temple (via Chopta) Guide
Tungnath: Reach for the Gods in the Himalayas Guide
Nestled high in the Garhwal Himalayas, Tungnath Temple is the highest Shiva temple in the world, beckoning pilgrims and trekkers alike. This ancient shrine, perched at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The journey to Tungnath is as rewarding as the destination itself, winding through lush meadows and rhododendron forests. Prepare to be mesmerized by the spiritual aura and natural beauty that envelop this sacred place. Tungnath is believed to be over 1,000 years old and is one of the Panch Kedar temples, a group of five Shiva temples in the Uttarakhand region. Legend has it that the Pandavas, seeking atonement for their sins after the Kurukshetra war, built these temples. Tungnath is said to be where the arm of Lord Shiva appeared. The temple's architecture is simple yet elegant, constructed in the traditional North Indian style. The idol of Lord Shiva is worshipped here as one of his five forms. The primary activity for tourists is the trek to Tungnath from Chopta, a picturesque village that serves as the base camp. The trek is approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) and is considered moderate in difficulty. Along the way, you'll encounter stunning landscapes, including the Bugyal meadows. From Tungnath, you can also trek another kilometer to Chandrashila peak for even more spectacular views, especially at sunrise. While Tungnath itself doesn't have specific culinary traditions, Chopta offers basic food stalls and small restaurants serving Indian cuisine, including vegetarian options. Expect simple, hearty meals perfect for refueling after your trek.
Transportation
The most common way to reach Tungnath is via Chopta. First, you need to reach Rishikesh or Haridwar, major transportation hubs in Uttarakhand. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Chopta. Buses are available from Rishikesh and Haridwar to Ukhimath, from where you can find shared taxis or jeeps to Chopta. The road to Chopta is generally well-maintained, but be prepared for winding mountain roads. From Chopta, the trek to Tungnath begins.