Tungnath Mahadev Temple
The highest Shiva Temple in the world
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TEMPLE
Facts to Remember
Starting Point
Chopta, Rudraprayag Dist., Uttarakhand
Duration
1 Day Darshan
Difficulty
Easy - Moderate
Max. Altitude
Approx. 12,073 ft
Best time to travel
May - June, Sep - Nov
Total Distance
Approx. 195 km from Haridwar
ABOUT THE TEMPLE
Introducing the Divine
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Chopta in Uttarakhand, Tungnath Mahadev Temple in Chopta, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. At an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), Tungnath stands as one of the highest Shiva temples in the world.
The temple generally opens to the public during the month of May (traditionally it is supposed to open two days after the grand opening of Kedarnath temple). The temple closes for winter around the occasion of Diwali and there is a big procession which takes Lord Shiva to its winter home of Makkumath.
Its spiritual significance, rich history, and awe-inspiring views make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Join us on a journey of discovery as we unravel the mysteries of Tungnath Temple and delve into its rich tapestry of history, mythology, and architectural splendour.
ORIGINS AND LEGENDS
Unraveling the Mythology
Tungnath temple is said to have been constructed more than a millennium ago. It is a part of the Panch Kedar, a group of five sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.
The five Panch Kedar temples symbolise an era of the epic Mahabharata and the tale of the search for Lord Shiva by Pandavas.
The Legend of Tungnath
According to ancient texts, after the epic war of Kurukshetra, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings to atone for their part in the death and violence caused by the civil war.
Lord Shiva was gravely affected by the death and destruction at the Kurukshetra war and wanted to avoid the Pandavas. Hence, he took the disguise of 'Nandi' Bull and hid in the Garhwal Himalayas - present-day Uttarakhand.
In the end, the Pandavas travelled from Kashi (Varanasi) to the Garhwal Himalayan hills. The second Pandava brother, Bhima, saw a bull close to the location of modern-day Guptkashi (“Gupt = hidden, Kashi = another name of Shiva” — the name derived from the hiding act of Shiva). Bhima eventually recognised the bull as Shiva and caught him. In a bid to run free, Shiva disappeared into the ground in the form of a bull but later reappeared in five different locations - also known as the Panch Kedar Temples.
Then Pandavas built the famous Panch Kedar temples to honour and worship Lord Shiva. It is further believed that the Pandavas gained heaven by following the celestial path known as the Mahapanth, also known as Swargarohini, after they meditated for salvation at Kedarnath.
Here's the list of 'The Five Forms of Shiva and the respective Panch Kedar Temples' dedicated to them:
At Kedarnath, the bull-shaped Shiva's hump became visible.
Tungnath is famous for the arms of Shiva.
The face of Shiva is worshipped at Rudranath.
Madhyamaheshwar is known for the navel and stomach of Lord Shiva.
Kalpeshwar is dedicated to the hair of Shiva.
ARCHITECTURE AND RITUALS OF THE TEMPLE
Enchanting Moments
Architecture of Tungnath Mahadev Temple
Tungnath Temple is primarily constructed of stone and wood. The three temples of Panch Kedar - Tungnath, Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar look very similar and are built in the traditional Garhwali style of architecture.
The temple of Tungnath is made up of stone walls and a weather-resistant stone slab roof. The dome features a wooden stage with sixteen openings (4 openings on each side). The temple's exterior and interior walls are decorated with traditional coloured paintings that narrate their historical tales. There is a revered Shiva lingam in the sanctum, and there are other shrines dedicated to different deities all around the main shrine.
Ambience and Views
The Tungnath Chandrashila Temple trek is one of the most rewarding & fulfilling treks in Uttarakhand. It offers panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and lush valleys of the Himalayas. Chandrashila Summit which is almost 1.5 km uphill from the Tungnath temple offers a chance to witness the snow-clad peaks of Nanda Devi, Panch Chuli, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba and Neelkanth along with the majestic views of Garhwal valley. The ridge which houses Tungnath also acts as a divide between the divine Kedar and Badri Valley.
LOCATION, VIEWS AND AMBIENCE
Where faith meets Majesty
Chopta is a beautiful and picturesque hill station (also a wildlife reserve) located in the district of Rudraprayag, Garhwal region, Uttarakhand. Chopta serves as a base camp for Tungnath Temple and the trek to the temple starts from the market.
Other nearby attractions include Deoria Tal, a serene Himalayan lake located in the Sari village, just a few kilometres from Chopta. Gopeshwar, Kedarnath, Rudraprayag, Kartik Swami Temple, Ukhimath and Makkumath are a few other must-see places near Chopta Tungnath Temple.
HOW TO REACH & CLIMATE CONDITIONS
Undertaking the journey of Discovery
How to Reach Tungnath Temple
You can reach Tungnath Temple after a trek of approximately 3-4 kilometres from the Chopta market. The trek is moderately easy during the summer season but a guide may be necessary due to heavy snow.
Chopta is just 30 km from Ukhimath, which also serves as a last stop for all public transport buses and taxis. Ukhimath is very well-connected with all the major cities in Uttarakhand like Dehradun, Haridwar & Rishikesh.
You can easily get a direct bus to Ukhimath from Haridwar or Dehradun but the public transport options between Chopta and Ukhimath are infrequent and expensive. Alternatively, visitors can hire taxis to directly reach Chopta, from where they can embark on the trek to the temple.
The nearest airport is Dehradun Airport and the nearest ISBT is Rishikesh or Haridwar.
Weather Conditions at Tungnath Chopta
The climate around Tungnath Temple is mild and pleasant in the summer months, making it an ideal time to visit the temple. But keep in mind it is also the busiest time of the year.
In contrast, the winter months (November to February) bring cold temperatures and occasional snowfall to the region, transforming the region into a winter heartland.
However, the temple only remains open from May to November.
TEMPLE TRAVEL GUIDEBOOK
Detailed Information
Temple Distance
Approx. 3 Km moderate trek from Chopta market
Private Transport
You can directly reach Chopta Tungnath Temple by road through private transport via the following routes:
Dehradun - Rishikesh - Devprayag - Rudraprayag - Augustmuni - Ukhimath - Chopta - Tungnath Temple - Approx. 214 km
Dehradun – Tehri – Myali – Tilwara – Ukhimath – Chopta - Tungnath Temple - Approx. 279 Km
Delhi - Haridwar - Rishikesh - Devprayag - Rudraprayag - Augustmuni - Ukhimath - Chopta - Tungnath Temple - Approx. 471 km
Public Transport
Reach Haridwar or Rishikesh from Delhi or Dehradun (direct buses are available).
There are no direct buses to Chopta from Haridwar or Rishikesh.
But you can get a bus to Ukhimath, Gopeshwar or Guptkashi.
Avail a local shared transport or hire a local taxi towards Chopta.
Or you can directly hire a taxi for Chopta from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Delhi or Dehradun.
Important note: The frequency of direct public transport from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar to Ukhimath is moderately high. But transport options, frequency and availability between Ukhimath and Chopta are low and few.
By Road
The nearest Inter State Bus Station is in Haridwar and Bus Station/Depot is in Ukhimath.Distance between Chopta & Ukhimath: Approx. 30 Km
Distance between Chopta & Rudraprayag: Approx. 70 Km
Distance between Chopta & Srinagar: Approx. 101 Km
Distance between Chopta & Rishikesh: Approx. 216 Km
Distance between Chopta & Haridwar: Approx. 232 Km
Distance between Chopta & Dehradun: Approx. 255 Km
Distance between Chopta & Delhi: Approx. 468 Km
By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar.
By Flight: The nearest airport is Dehradun Airport. You can reach Haridwar or Rishikesh from the airport and take the above-mentioned options.
DID YOU KNOW THESE INTERESTING FACTS?
Tales of the Temple
Highest Shiva Temple: Tungnath stands as one of the highest Shiva temples in the world.
Panch Kedar Connection: Tungnath is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, where Shiva revealed himself in five forms.
Chandrashila Summit: Chandrashila Peak offers a unique 360-degree vantage point for mountain enthusiasts.
Winter Seat of Shiva: During winters, the symbolic image of Lord Shiva resides in Makkumath, 19 km away from Chopta.
In winter, Tungnath transforms into a snow-covered sanctuary, attracting intrepid trekkers.
Lord Rama and Lakshmana meditated at Chandrashila Peak, near Tungnath, after Rama killed Ravana.
Ravana is said to have performed penance to Shiva while staying at Tungnath.
TEMPLE ROUTE
Brief Itinerary
Day 0: Pick-up from Delhi
Day 1: Arrival in Chopta
Day 2: Tungnath Temple Trek & Darshan
Day 3: Departure to Delhi or Rishikesh (after Deoria Tal Trek)