Tungnath Temple: Highest Shiva Temple in the World

Unlike a typical temple that can be reached directly by road, Tungnath requires visitors to walk through the high-altitude landscape above Chopta. The route also forms part of the popular Tungnath–Chandrashila trekking experience, making the destination attractive to both pilgrims and mountain travellers.

Travel Note: This is a research-based travel guide prepared using official tourism and temple information. It is not presented as a first-hand travel experience by the author.

Tungnath Temple at a Glance

Detail	Information
Location	Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand
Nearest Base	Chopta
Altitude	Around 3,680 metres
Dedicated To	Lord Shiva
Panch Kedar	Third Kedar
Trek Distance	Around 4 km from Chopta
Trek Difficulty	Moderate
Nearby Attraction	Chandrashila
Region	Garhwal Himalayas
Famous For	Highest Shiva temple in the world

What Is Tungnath Temple?

Tungnath is an ancient Shiva temple located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. It is one of the five Panch Kedar temples, a group of highly revered Shiva shrines associated with the Himalayan pilgrimage tradition.

According to Uttarakhand Tourism, Tungnath is the third of the Panch Kedar temples, and the arms of Lord Shiva are believed to have appeared here. The temple stands at approximately 3,677 metres, while the Panch Kedar circuit page gives an altitude of around 3,680 metres.

The temple's remote high-altitude location is one of the reasons Tungnath has become both an important pilgrimage destination and a popular trekking destination.

Why Is Tungnath Called the Highest Shiva Temple in the World?

Tungnath is widely recognised as the highest Shiva temple in the world.

The temple stands at approximately 3,680 metres above sea level, significantly higher than most major Shiva temples in India. Uttarakhand Tourism specifically describes Tungnath as the highest Shiva temple in the world.

Its elevation is not the only thing that makes Tungnath special. The temple is also one of the five Panch Kedar shrines and is traditionally associated with the arms of Lord Shiva.

This combination of religious significance, Himalayan altitude and trekking access makes Tungnath different from conventional pilgrimage destinations.

Where Is Tungnath Temple Located?

Tungnath Temple is located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, above Chopta in the Garhwal Himalayas.

Chopta is the main access point for the Tungnath trek. Uttarakhand Tourism describes Chopta as a high-altitude destination surrounded by meadows, forests and Himalayan peaks, and identifies Tungnath as the temple located above Chopta.

If you are planning to stay in the area, our detailed Chopta Uttarakhand travel guide covers accommodation areas, seasons, nearby attractions and trekking information.

What Is the Panch Kedar Connection of Tungnath?

Tungnath is the third temple in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit.

The five Panch Kedar temples are:

1. Kedarnath
2. Madhyamaheshwar
3. Tungnath
4. Rudranath
5. Kalpeshwar

Traditional Hindu belief connects these temples with the Pandavas and Lord Shiva. According to the legend, the Pandavas searched for Shiva after the Kurukshetra war. Shiva is believed to have appeared in different forms at the five locations.

At Tungnath, the arms of Lord Shiva are traditionally worshipped. Uttarakhand Tourism explicitly identifies Tungnath as the third Panch Kedar and associates it with Shiva's arms.

If you're researching the broader Shiva pilgrimage circuit, you can also read our Kedarnath Temple travel guide.

Tungnath Temple Trek From Chopta

The Tungnath trek begins from Chopta and follows a mountain trail towards the temple.

Uttarakhand Tourism describes the trek as approximately 4 km from Chopta and grades it as moderate. The trail climbs steadily through the Himalayan landscape before reaching the temple.

The actual walking time depends on fitness, weather, altitude, trail conditions and the number of breaks taken.

Tungnath Trek Route

The basic route is:

Chopta → Tungnath Temple → Chandrashila

The first section takes you from Chopta to Tungnath. Travellers who want to continue can climb further towards Chandrashila.

The trail is relatively short compared with many Himalayan treks, but the elevation makes it more physically demanding than an ordinary hill walk.

How Long Is the Tungnath Trek?

The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is approximately 4 km one way, according to Uttarakhand Tourism. The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee describes the route from Chopta as approximately 3 km, so published distances vary slightly depending on the point used to measure the trail.

For practical planning, travellers can consider it roughly a 3–4 km uphill trek one way.

Is Tungnath Trek Difficult?

The Tungnath trek is generally considered moderate, but altitude makes it more demanding than the distance alone suggests.

The biggest factors are:

• Continuous uphill walking
• High altitude
• Cold and rapidly changing weather
• Snow and ice during winter
• Reduced oxygen at elevation
• Steeper sections near the upper trail

Uttarakhand Tourism classifies the Chopta–Tungnath route as a moderate trek.

First-time trekkers should maintain a steady pace rather than trying to complete the climb quickly.

Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek

One of the most popular ways to experience the area is to combine Tungnath with Chandrashila.

After reaching Tungnath, the trail continues upward towards Chandrashila. Uttarakhand Tourism lists the broader Baniya Kund–Tungnath–Chandrashila route as a trekking experience with Himalayan views.

Chandrashila is particularly known for its panoramic mountain views. On clear days, trekkers can see prominent Himalayan peaks from the summit area.

Best Time to Visit Tungnath Temple

The best time depends on what you want from the trip.

April to June

Spring and early summer are popular for trekking. The weather is generally more comfortable, and the landscape around Chopta becomes greener.

July to September

The monsoon brings lush greenery but also creates additional travel challenges. Rain can make mountain roads and trails slippery, while landslides can affect road travel in Uttarakhand.

October to November

Autumn can provide clearer mountain views and crisp weather. It is an attractive period for trekking and photography, subject to current weather and temple conditions.

December to March

Winter brings snow to Chopta and the Tungnath region. Snow trekking can be beautiful but requires significantly more preparation and appropriate equipment.

Uttarakhand Tourism describes Chopta as an all-year destination but notes its seasonal transformation, including snow-covered winter conditions.

Always check the current temple opening status and local weather conditions before travelling, especially outside the main pilgrimage season.

How to Reach Tungnath Temple

Tungnath cannot be reached directly by car.

The journey has two major parts:

Road journey → Chopta → Trek to Tungnath

By Road

Chopta is connected by mountain roads through the Rudraprayag–Ukhimath–Chopta region.

The exact driving route depends on where you start your journey.

From Chopta, the final section to Tungnath has to be completed on foot.

The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee lists the Kund–Gopeshwar–Chopta road route and identifies Chopta as the road-accessible point before the trek.

By Train

Rishikesh is one of the main railway access points used for journeys towards the Garhwal region.

From Rishikesh, travellers need to continue by road towards Chopta.

By Air

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest major airport generally used to access this part of Uttarakhand.

From the airport, the journey continues by road.

What to Carry for the Tungnath Trek

Even though the trail is relatively short, Tungnath's altitude means that preparation matters.

Essential Items

• Comfortable trekking shoes with good grip
• Warm layers
• Waterproof jacket or rain protection
• Water bottle
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal medicines
• Basic first-aid supplies
• Energy snacks
• Power bank
• Identification documents
• Cash

During Winter

If you're visiting during snow conditions, additional equipment may be required depending on the trail condition, including suitable winter footwear and trekking poles.

Always check the current local conditions before starting the trek.

Tungnath Trek Tips for First-Time Visitors

Start Early

An early start gives you more daylight and reduces the chance of being caught on the trail after weather conditions change.

Walk Slowly

Altitude can affect people differently. A steady pace with regular breaks is better than rushing uphill.

Check the Weather

Mountain weather can change quickly. Check the forecast before beginning the trek.

Keep Yourself Hydrated

Carry sufficient water and drink regularly during the climb.

Dress in Layers

Temperatures can change considerably between Chopta and the temple.

Don't Ignore Altitude Symptoms

If you experience unusual breathlessness, severe headache, dizziness or other concerning symptoms, stop and seek appropriate local assistance rather than pushing towards the summit.

Respect the Temple

Tungnath is an active religious site. Follow temple rules, maintain cleanliness and respect local customs.

What Makes Tungnath Temple Unique?

1. It Is One of the Panch Kedar Temples

Tungnath is the third Panch Kedar shrine and has an important place in the Shiva pilgrimage tradition.

2. It Is at a Remarkable Altitude

At around 3,680 metres, Tungnath is among the world's highest Shiva temples and is officially described by Uttarakhand Tourism as the highest Shiva temple in the world.

3. The Journey Requires a Trek

Unlike road-accessible temples, Tungnath requires visitors to walk from Chopta.

4. It Connects Pilgrimage With Himalayan Trekking

The same route can be extended towards Chandrashila, making the destination attractive to both pilgrims and trekkers.

5. It Sits Above Chopta's Alpine Landscape

The surrounding landscape includes meadows, forests and views of Himalayan peaks. Uttarakhand Tourism describes Chopta as a trekking and birdwatching destination surrounded by revered Shiva temples.

Places to Visit Near Tungnath

Chopta

Chopta is the main base for the Tungnath trek and is known for its meadows, forests and Himalayan scenery.

Chandrashila

Located above Tungnath, Chandrashila is one of the most popular summit viewpoints in the region.

Deoriatal

Deoriatal is a scenic high-altitude lake accessed from Sari village. It is known for reflections of surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Ukhimath

Ukhimath is an important religious destination and a useful base for exploring the surrounding Himalayan region.

Tungnath Temple Travel Checklist

Before leaving for the trek, make sure you have:

• Checked the current weather

• Confirmed the temple's current opening status

• Arranged transport to Chopta

• Packed proper trekking shoes

• Carried warm and waterproof layers

• Packed sufficient water and snacks

• Carried personal medicines

• Started early enough for a safe return

• Checked current road and trail conditions

  Final Thoughts

  Tungnath Temple is more than a high-altitude trekking destination. It is one of Uttarakhand's most significant Shiva shrines and the third temple of the Panch Kedar circuit.

  At around 3,680 metres, the temple combines spiritual importance with the raw beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek from Chopta adds a physical dimension to the pilgrimage, while the continuation towards Chandrashila offers an opportunity to experience the surrounding mountain landscape from a higher viewpoint.

  For travellers planning the journey, the most important priorities are simple: check current temple and weather conditions, prepare properly for altitude, start the trek early and respect the religious and natural environment.

  About the Author Karan Deep writes research-based travel and destination content for Himalayas Digital, covering India's places, culture, heritage and travel experiences.