Tungnath Temple, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, is one of the most revered Shiva temples in India. At an elevation of approximately 3,680 meters, it holds the distinction of being the highest Shiva temple in the world. This temple, part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, is not only a spiritual haven but also an attraction for adventure seekers and nature lovers due to its serene environment and breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas.

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In this article, we will explore the detailed history of Tungnath Temple, how to reach there from New Delhi, accommodation options, the best time to visit, and some additional travel tips.

The History of Tungnath Temple

Tungnath, meaning “Lord of the Peaks,” is steeped in ancient history and is intricately connected to the legends of the Mahabharata. According to Hindu mythology, after the great Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought penance for the sin of killing their kin. To seek forgiveness and absolution, they wanted to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings, but the mighty god was displeased with the carnage and decided to evade them.

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Lord Shiva disguised himself as a bull (Nandi) and fled to the Himalayas. When the Pandavas followed him, he disappeared into the ground. Different parts of Shiva’s body are said to have appeared in five locations, forming the Panch Kedar temples. Tungnath is believed to be the spot where Shiva’s arms emerged, while other body parts appeared in Kedarnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.

The temple is estimated to be more than 1,000 years old and is said to have been built by the Pandavas themselves. The architectural style of the temple is traditional North Indian, with a small but intricately designed sanctum dedicated to Lord Shiva. While the temple is relatively small compared to other famous shrines in India, its spiritual significance and the surrounding landscape make it an extraordinary pilgrimage site.

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How to Reach Tungnath from New Delhi

Reaching Tungnath from New Delhi is an adventure in itself, involving a mix of road travel and trekking.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. By Road: The journey from New Delhi to Tungnath is about 450 kilometers. The first part of the journey involves reaching Chopta, the base from where the trek to Tungnath begins. You can drive your own vehicle or hire a taxi. Public buses and shared taxis are also available from major towns like Haridwar and Rishikesh.
   • Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh: You can take a bus or train to Haridwar (approximately 230 km from Delhi). Haridwar and Rishikesh are well-connected to Delhi via trains and buses.
   • Haridwar/Rishikesh to Chopta: From Rishikesh or Haridwar, taxis or buses can be hired to reach Chopta, which is about 200 km away. The route passes through scenic towns like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath. The roads are generally well-maintained, but can be narrow and winding as you ascend higher into the mountains.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Tungnath is Rishikesh. From Delhi, several trains run daily to Haridwar and Rishikesh. Once at Rishikesh, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Chopta.
3. By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 226 km from Chopta. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Chopta. Flights to Dehradun are available from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
4. Trek from Chopta: After reaching Chopta, the only way to reach Tungnath is by trekking. The trek is about 4 km long and takes 2-3 hours depending on your pace. The route is well-paved and passes through scenic meadows, rhododendron forests, and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. While the trek is considered moderate, it’s advisable to wear sturdy shoes and carry water, especially for first-time trekkers.Many trekkers also extend their hike to Chandrashila, located 1.5 km ahead of Tungnath. The Chandrashila summit offers 360-degree views of snow-capped peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.

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Places to Stay

Tungnath itself doesn’t have accommodation options, as it is a sacred spot with limited infrastructure. Most visitors opt to stay in Chopta or nearby areas.

Here are some accommodation options:

1. Budget Hotels and Guesthouses in Chopta: Chopta offers basic guesthouses and budget hotels. These provide simple rooms with minimal amenities, but the hospitality is warm and the surroundings make up for the lack of luxury. Some of the popular options include:
   • Magpie Eco Resort
   • Chopta Meadows Heritage Camps
   • Mayadeep Resort Prices for these range from INR 800 to INR 2,500 per night depending on the season and availability.
2. Camping: If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, you can camp in Chopta. Several local operators offer camping facilities, which allow you to experience the beauty of the region under the stars. Tents, sleeping bags, and meals are usually included in the package.
3. Stay in Ukhimath: If you prefer to stay in a more developed area, Ukhimath is about 30 km away from Chopta and offers more accommodation choices. Ukhimath also holds religious significance as the winter abode of Lord Kedarnath and Tungnath when these temples are closed during winter.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tungnath is during the summer and post-monsoon seasons.

1. Summer (April to June): The weather is pleasant during these months, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The snow starts melting, making the trek easier. This is the peak season for visitors.
2. Monsoon (July to September): While the region becomes lush and green, heavy rainfall can cause landslides and make the trek slippery and dangerous. It’s advisable to avoid visiting during this time.
3. Post-monsoon (September to November): After the monsoon, the weather remains cool and crisp, and the skies are clear, offering spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks. This is an ideal time for trekking.
4. Winter (December to March): The temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, and the deities are moved to Ukhimath. However, adventure enthusiasts sometimes trek up to Tungnath for snow trekking. It’s a challenging but rewarding experience for those who enjoy winter sports and snow-laden landscapes.

Travel Tips for Tungnath

• Fitness: Although the Tungnath trek is considered moderate, the altitude can affect some individuals. It’s essential to acclimatize yourself and take regular breaks during the trek.
• Carry Warm Clothes: Even during the summer, the temperature can drop significantly, especially during the night. Layering is recommended to stay warm.
• Essentials: Carry a small backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and basic medical supplies. Make sure you have good-quality trekking shoes.
• Respect the Environment: Tungnath is a protected area. Ensure that you don’t litter, disturb wildlife, or damage the surroundings. Carry your waste back to Chopta for proper disposal.

Final Words

Tungnath Temple is a unique blend of spirituality, adventure, and nature’s beauty. Whether you’re a devotee seeking blessings from Lord Shiva or a nature lover looking to explore the serene landscape of the Himalayas, Tungnath has something to offer everyone. The journey from New Delhi to Tungnath is filled with scenic beauty, spiritual significance, and a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. So, plan your trip to Tungnath and immerse yourself in its divine aura and breathtaking surroundings.