In the beautiful state of Uttarakhand, Tungnath Temple is India’s highest Shiva temple. It stands as one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s not only an ancient architecture but also a place of deep spiritual significance.
To help you explore the history, significance, and best time to visit Tungnath, Holiday Park Chopta has composed a comprehensive travel guide. This will surely assist you in planning your Tungnath Trek. So, let’s dive into it!
The Highest Temple of Lord Shiva – Tungnath
Tungnath, a name given to the Lord of the Peak, is next in rank to the Tritiya Kedar among the most sacred Panch Kedars. At this holy place, believers pay homage to the divine by worshipping Lord Shiva’s arm. The Tungnath Temple rests at a height of 3680 m (12,074 ft) in a peaceful grove in Chopta in the Rudraprayag District of Uttarakhand, claiming to be the highest Shiva Temple in the world.
The ancient temple is considered to have been built by Pandavas over 1,000 years ago during their quest for a boon from Lord Shiva. Temple stones engage the attention of both the pilgrims and trek enthusiasts. This beautiful trek from Chopta to Tungnath enchants every trekker and pilgrim alike with dazzling views of Himalayan peaks, making it an amazing combination of adventure and divinity.

History of Tungnath Temple
The Tungnath Temple has old roots dating back to Hindu mythology, especially to the Mahabharata. One legend tells how the Pandavas, after the war in Kurukshetra, prayed to Lord Shiva for forgiveness for their sins. Lord Shiva though would not forgive them so easily and transformed himself into a bull hiding in the Garhwal Himalayas. When the Pandavas tracked him down, Shiva’s body parts appeared to have surfaced at various locations, emerging as the Panch Kedar temples. Thus, Tungnath represents one of Shiva’s arms, while his hump appeared at Kedarnath, his face showed up at Rudranath, his belly was at Madhmaheshwar, and his hair was at Kalpeshwar. This divine bond has installed Tungnath as one of the all-time great Shivji pilgrimage sites.
Significance of Tungnath Temple
Tungnath Temple holds profound spiritual significance for Hindu devotees, particularly for followers of Lord Shiva. Here are some of the key aspects that make Tungnath Temple special:
- World’s Third-Highest Shiva Temple: Tungnath stands as the third-highest Shiva temple in the world. This height combines with its stunning mountain surroundings and adds to the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
- Part of Panch Kedar: Tungnath is one of the five temples that constitute the Panch Kedar pilgrimage. It is a journey that takes pilgrims through the revered temples associated with the Pandavas and Lord Shiva. The other temples in this yatra are Madhyamaheshwar, Rudranath, Kalpeshwar, and Kedarnath.
- Spiritual Adventure: The Tungnath Trek is an integral part of the spiritual adventure. Pilgrims undertake a challenging trek to reach the temple, which is believed to test their devotion and determination.
- Mesmerizing Views: The panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Chaukhamba, Kedar Dome, and Nanda Devi, from Tungnath, are nothing short of spectacular. The Tungnath Mandir offers an ideal spot for meditation and reflection amidst this natural majesty.

Best Time To Visit Tungnath
Choosing the best time to visit Tungnath is crucial for an enriching experience. Here, you will get the idea to choose the best season for the Chopta Tungnath Trek.
- Summer (May to June): This is the ideal time for Tungnath yatra. The weather is pleasant, and the trekking route is mostly free from snow, allowing for safe and comfortable access to the temple.
- Monsoon (July to September): While the monsoon season brings lush greenery to the region, heavy rainfall can make the trekking route slippery and challenging. It’s advisable to exercise caution during this time.
- Autumn (October to November): This is another excellent and the best time to visit Tungnath. The tungnath weather is clear, and the surroundings are bathed in golden hues. It’s an ideal time for both pilgrimage and photography.
- Winter (December to April): Tungnath is usually inaccessible during the winter months due to heavy snowfall. The temple is closed, and the trekking route is dangerous. It’s best to plan your Trek to Tungnath during the warmer months.

Trekking to Tungnath Temple
The Tungnath Temple is reached by a 3.5 km trek from Chopta, which is referred to as “Mini Switzerland of India.” Fairly moderately difficult, this trek is most suitable for beginner and amateur trekkers alike. The trek is well-trodden and goes through picturesque meadows, rhododendron forests, and the edge of the Himalayas with all its beauty. While rolling up the green slopes, one gets breathtaking views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks. Through this trek, Chandrashila Peak rises to 4,000m, with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
Nearby Attractions
Chandrashila Peak lies 1.5 km ahead of Tungnath, offering stunning views at sunrise and sunset. Another beautiful site to check out is Deoria Tal, a stunning lake encompassed by dense forests that appear on clear days as the Chaukhamba peaks. Chopta itself is a paradise for nature lovers, with its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity. If you seek adventure, the Madhmaheshwar Temple and Kalimath Temple are two other highly revered places nearby that will transfer the aura of spirituality to this beautiful region.
Read More – Chopta Trekking Tips: Your Ultimate Guide To Chopta Chandrashila Trek
Conclusion
Tungnath Temple is not just a place of worship; it’s a journey that combines spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a holy pilgrim or a nature enthusiast, Tungnath offers an opportunity to connect with the divine and experience the beauty of the Himalayas. Additionally, Camping in Chopta Tungnath, enhances this experience. The serene landscapes and starry nights in Chopta provide a perfect camping spot for trekkers. So, choose the best time to visit Tungnath, plan your camping in Chopta, and start your spiritual exploration that you’ll cherish forever.
Wait…! Do you know your Tungnath trek will be incomplete without camping in Chopta? So, here, enter the Holiday Park Chopta with its cheap Chopta Camping Packages. Just give us a ring at 91-9758444450 or drop an email at info@holidayparkchopta.com to book your spot at Chopta Camp Stay.