Tungnath – Trek to the Highest Shiva Temple & Beyond
At an altitude of over 3,600 meters, Tungnath Temple is believed to be the highest Shiva shrine in the world.
The trek to Tungnath, starting from the meadows of Chopta, is short but dramatic—rolling bugyals, rhododendron forests,
and open skies that suddenly reveal snow peaks. For many, the journey is as magical as the destination itself.
With Tusk Travel’s Tungnath tours, you don’t just climb a trail—you follow centuries of pilgrims,
find moments of silence, and finish with Himalayan views you’ll carry for life.
Why Visit Tungnath?
Tungnath is not only about faith but also about the experience of standing close to the sky.
The temple is small, stone-built, and incredibly serene—especially at sunrise or evening aarti.
Beyond spirituality, it’s the gateway to the Chandrashila Peak trek, which opens up a 360-degree panorama
of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, and Chaukhamba. Few Himalayan hikes offer such reward for such a manageable effort.
Places & Experiences Around Tungnath
Tungnath Temple: Ancient Shiva shrine, part of the Panch Kedar circuit.
Chandrashila Peak: A 1.5 km climb from Tungnath; unmatched sunrise and panoramic Himalayan views.
Chopta Meadows: Base point with alpine bugyals, birdwatching, and camping options.
Deoria Tal: A crystal lake surrounded by forests and peaks, perfect for overnight camping.
Best Time to Visit
April–June: Rhododendrons in bloom, comfortable trek weather.
Sept–Nov: Clear skies, crisp air, and best Himalayan visibility.
Dec–March: Snow season; temple usually closes, but trekking up to Chopta is magical for snow walks.
How to Reach
By Train: Haridwar and Rishikesh are the nearest railheads (200–250 km). Road journey continues via Rudraprayag.
By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun (~220 km).
By Road: Chopta is accessible from Rishikesh, Ukhimath, and Rudraprayag. We arrange comfortable cabs with experienced drivers.
Why Travel with Tusk Travel?
We make the Tungnath trek seamless: pickup from Haridwar/Rishikesh, clean stays in Chopta,
knowledgeable guides, and safe trekking support. Whether you want camping under the stars,
simple dhaba meals, or extensions to Kedarnath and Badrinath, our Tungnath tour packages
ensure both comfort and authenticity.
Ready for the journey? Join us for a Tungnath trek that balances devotion, adventure, and Himalayan calm.
The best months are April–June and September–November. Summers bring flowers and mild weather, while autumn offers crystal-clear Himalayan views.
In winter, snow covers the trails, and the temple remains closed, but Chopta is still accessible for snow treks.
The Tungnath trek is considered easy to moderate. The distance from Chopta to the temple is about 3.5 km,
with a steady uphill climb. Most reasonably fit travelers can complete it in 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace.
Absolutely. The additional 1.5 km climb from Tungnath to Chandrashila peak rewards you with sweeping views of
Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, and Trishul. Sunrise here is unforgettable and well worth the extra effort.
Most travelers stay in Chopta, which has campsites, guesthouses, and eco-lodges.
In season, a few basic dharamshalas and lodges are available closer to Tungnath temple. We book stays that combine comfort with accessibility.
Wear sturdy trekking shoes, layered clothing, and carry a light daypack with water, snacks, a rain jacket, and sun protection.
In colder months, pack warm thermals, gloves, and a beanie as temperatures can drop sharply.
Yes, Tungnath is among the safer Himalayan treks. The trail is well-paved and clearly marked.
Families with kids and beginners can manage it with breaks. Guides help with pacing, and we ensure safe, comfortable arrangements.
