Shri Tungnath Temple – The Highest Shiva Temple in the World: A Pilgrimage of Spirit and Adventure 

Shri Tungnath Temple

Perched at a breathtaking 3680 meters (12073 feet) in the Great Garwah Himalayan Range, Shri Tungnath Temple is not only a spiritual wonder but also marvels at human endeavor along with the splendor of nature. Also known as the highest Shiva temple of all, Tungnath is jaw-dropping both physically and spiritually.

The temple serves as the third site in the sacred Panch Kedar pilgrimage along with being a primary attraction for adventurers. In this piece, everything from its mystical history and astonishing treks to practical traveling tips will be discussed.

The legends surrounding the Tungnath Temple are intricately woven along the magnificent tale of the Mahabharatha along with Hindu myths. In the simplest of forms, it tells us that at Kurukshetra, the Pandavas, in order to bless themselves with enough power to wipe out their relatives, first went to Shiva.

Sensing the implosion of souls unto him, and angered, Shiva took various forms at different parts of the Himalayas. To outsmart the Pandavas, Shiva turned himself into a bull and submerged himself in five different places, only exposing parts of his body. The five places are called Kedars or Shiva temples.

In weighing all the options, It is assumed the Shiva placed in Kedarnath became his first and the lower springs located in his arms (Bahnu) allow him to capture garrisoning soldiers making the surrounding area of his shrine into an abyss.

Adi Shankaracharya, a critical figure in the reincarnation of Hinduism in the Lok Sabha region, is accredited with rediscovering the temple which is said to have been lost hundreds of years ago. It is believed the temple was lost to time and Shankaracharya rediscovered it centuries after the temple was built.

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After Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar, this arched adored structure serves as a part of the Kedar Panch circuit. The devotees claim that mere pilgrimage here is able to purify one’s soul and grant wishes. The temple is associated with the Jyotirlinga and, similarly, it is also treated with Abishek, holy water bathing, Aarti, and fire offerings along with a few Janda prayers that echo through the Himalayas.

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From Rishikesh, the distance is about 223 km, both of which are located in the Uttarakhand region of India. The location is surrounded by the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and Tungnath (the ‘Mini’ Switzerland of India) is a short distance of 3.5km North of Chopta.

How to Get There

From Delhi:

• By car through NH58, it is possible to get there in 910 hours.
• There are also shuttle bus services available which connect at Haridwar and Rishikesh.
• The closest train station is Haridwar Railway Station, from there you can grab a bus or taxi to Chopta.
• The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, from there a taxi can be grabbed to go to your destination.

From Chandigarh:

• Reachable through NH 44 and 58 to Chopta in 1213 hours (minus traffic times).

From Rishikesh:

Book a shared jeep or private vehicle to Chopta (approximately 67 hours).

You can find jeeps at the Rishikesh bus station, or you can arrange for one directly from your hotel.

Upon reaching Chopta, the base camp for Tungnath, the last segment of the trip includes an enjoyable trek.

The Trek from Chopta

From Chopta, Tungnath is 3.5 kilometers away, while the other 4.5 kilometers to the temple are 4 sharp turns, a mud road that makes it moderately difficult. It goes parallel to the wooden cabin where food can be purchased and is adjacent to a well. To reach there a small trek is needed. There’s a chance horse riding is available.

Distance: 3.5 km (one way).

Duration: 3-4 hours (ascend); 2-3 hours (descend).

Difficulty Level

The hike from Chopta to Tungnath is certainly achievable, particularly considering the physical fitness of the trekker. Missing the cut-off time can be a hurdle for first-timers as calories at a higher altitude are extremely different from the surroundings. Make sure to rest properly before you hike to prepare yourself for the elevating landscapes.

Scenic Highlights:

Picturesque views featuring soaring Himalayan ranges splattered with snow are the backbone of the calm streams gushing through the greenery That can be enjoyed any season. It features blooming rhododendrons during the spring season that can be viewed between March to May. And a red carpet of fauna which can be enjoyed till December and February, forming the ranger’s border.

Pro Tip – Make sure you start the trek earlier to avoid running into clouds wearing Tungnath later in the afternoon. While also avoiding decreased visibility in foothills. Porters and horses can be hired at a fee of 800 to 1500 rupees.

Best Time to visit

Summer (April-June)

With the pleasant weather and clear skies, now is the best time to visit Tungnath. It is ideal for trekking with temperatures ranging between 10°c to 20°c.

Monsoon (July-September)

Undoubtedly, plug in the parameters somewhere Lofton to the property’s foot. At the time of the best Mittel season, proper mid-level weather plays fit around 10 and excel 20 degrees, being put on great conditions whilst trekking. Then plug in August to September, and nice weather comes in while the biological life of the flora literally blooms into perfection. Near ashtama.

Winter (October-March)

As the season of winter approaches from October until March, Tungnath gets transformed into a snow-capped location which makes it look like a palace for snow lovers. Unfortunately, there can be times when the heavy snow can restrict access to the temple which is why it is advised to plan a little earlier and come equipped with the right kinds of clothing and tools.

Nearby Attractions

1. Chandrashila Peak (4,000 M): A life-changing experience is waiting for you when you reach the top of the 4,000 m peak and witness the sunrise over the Himalayas.
2. Deoria tal (2,438 M): A calm and peaceful lake with the sparkling reflection of Chaukhamba during dawn. The reservoir is situated 30 km from Chopta and is 2 km away from Sari Village.
3. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary: If you are interested in spotting Himalayan wildlife, then you can take a route towards Chopta.
4. Kedarnath Temple: It is one of the temples that are included in the Panch Kedar circuit. You can reach there by traveling through Gaurikund.
5. Madhyamaheshwar Temple: One more in the list of panch sites and is further distant, but it sure is an interesting place to visit if time allows.

Where to Stay and Eat

There are some reasonable motels and boarding houses available in Ukhimath which is roughly 20 kilometers away from Chopta. You will be able to find guesthouses and campsites in Chopta, with the popular choices being GMVN Tourist Rest House and Jungle Camps.

Food: There is a selection of local Garhwali food that one can enjoy such as dal rajma, aloo ke gutke, and mandua ki roti. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks for the hike.

Travel Tips

Avoid getting too hot and cold by layering your clothing which will allow you to adjust based on the temperature. Be sure to pack trekking shoes, warm clothing, and sunscreen.

2. Permits: You are free to visit Tungnath without any special permits, but make sure to comply with the rules of the Forest Department.
3. EcoFriendly Practices: Do not dispose of any waste; use refillable water bottles and bags. Appreciate the local customs and wildlife.
4. Health Precautions: Properly adapt to the new environment to ensure you do not suffer from altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and watch your pace during the hike.

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