Tungnath – The Highest Shiva Temple in the World
Tungnath is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand on Chandranath parvat at a height of 3680 meters above sea level. It is the highest temple of Lord Shiva in the world. Tungnath is one of the sacred Panch Kedar.
Mythology and History about Tungnath
The mythological background of Tungnath Temple relates to the epic Mahabharata. Vyas Rishi told the Pandavas they killed their own brothers in the war of Mahabharata and they were guilty of doing this, Rishi told their sins would be expiated only if Lord Shiva pardoned them. Pandavas began in search of Lord Shiva in Kashi but Shiva ignored them and went in the Himalayas.
Pandavas went behind Shiva in the Himalayas, to escape from Pandavas Shiva took the form of a Bull and took refuge underground. The places where the parts of the Bull(Nandi) have appeared are now renowned Shiva Temples, and these temples are known as sacred Panch Kedars. Tungnath temple is the place where the hands(bahu) of the Bull(Nandi) were seen.
How to Reach Tungnath?
Tungnath is a 3 Km mid-level trek which starts from Chopta valley from the main market of Chopta. There is a big temple gate which is clearly visible and you can start your trekking to Tungnath. Once you reached Tungnath another 1.5 Km trek from Tungnath takes you to the Chandrashila summit which offers a beautiful view of snow-covered Himalayan ranges including Chaukhanba, Nanda Devi and Trishul.
Accommodation in Tungnath?
There are plenty of resorts and hotels in Chopta where you can stay as tungnath temple area is not suitable and permitted for construction so you have to trek down to Chopta and there you will find a stay and food facility.
For what Tungnath is famous for?
Tungnath is famous for Shiva Temple, Panch Kedar, Bugyals, and Trekking.
Tungnath is recommended as a destination for Solo, Family and Kids, Couples, Friend groups and all.
Tungnath is famous for the following activities: Panch Kedar, Pilgrimage, Trekking, Shiva Temples, Winter Trek winter destination, Adventure, and Beauty of Nature.
Tungnath Overview
- Temperature: 10 (Max) and -4 (Min) in March
- Location: Rudraprayag, Garhwal
- Stay (Recommended): 1 Day
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh (211 Km)
- Nearest Airport: Jollygrant Airport, Dehradun (225 Km)
- Famous for: Shiva Temple, Trekking, Panch Kedar, Meadows
- Best times to visit: April, May, June, September, October and November