Attraction Guide: Tungnath Temple, Ukhimath, India

Tungnath Temple Guide

Tungnath Temple: Abode of Lord Shiva in the Himalayas Guide

Welcome to Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. This sacred shrine, perched at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayan range. The journey to Tungnath is a spiritual and visual feast, attracting pilgrims and trekkers alike. Prepare to be mesmerized by the serene beauty and the divine aura that surrounds this ancient temple. Legend has it that Tungnath Temple is one of the Panch Kedar temples, believed to have been built by the Pandavas to atone for their sins after the Kurukshetra war. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, specifically his arm (Bahu). The architecture is simple yet elegant, reflecting the traditional style of Uttarakhand temples. The main deity is a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva, and smaller shrines dedicated to other deities surround the main temple. The temple is believed to be over 1000 years old. The primary activity for tourists is trekking to the temple. The trek starts from Chopta, a picturesque village known as the "Mini Switzerland" of Uttarakhand. The trek is approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) and is considered moderate in difficulty. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and rhododendron forests. Once at the temple, you can offer prayers, soak in the spiritual atmosphere, and capture the breathtaking scenery. For the more adventurous, a further trek of about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) leads to Chandrashila peak, offering even more spectacular views. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the temple itself, you can find simple vegetarian meals and snacks in Chopta and nearby villages.