Tungnath – Worlds Highest Shiva Temple

The world’s highest Lord Shiva temple, Tungnath Mahadev Temple, is located in Chandranath Parvat Chopta in the Rudraprayag region of Uttarakhand State and is around 3600 meters above sea level. Regarded as a temple that is over ten thousand years old, Tungnath Temple is ranked third (Tritya) among the Panch Kedars Temples in Uttarakhand. A meadow envelops the temple, offering a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, including Chukhamba, Trishul Parvat, Panchchuli Peak, Nanda Devi, and others.

The third of the Pandava brothers, Arjuna, laid the foundation for this temple. Around the temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to different gods. Tungnath Temple was constructed in the North Indian architectural style. Numerous legends surround this location, one of which being the story of Lord Ram using meditation to break free from Brahmahatya’s punishment for defeating the Demon Ravana.

History

The traditions state that following the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas set out on a quest to find Lord Shiva, after Vyas Rishi informed them that they were responsible for the deaths of their own brothers during the war and that their crimes would only be absolved if Lord Shiva pardoned them. But because Lord Shiva was upset about all the fatalities, he wished to prevent them. As a result, he changed into a bull and vanished beneath the earth, scattering his body parts everywhere. His navels and stomach were seen at Madhyamaheshwar, his head at Rudranath, his hump at Kedarnath, his bahu at Tungnath, and his jata at Kalpeshwar. The Pandavas constructed a temple here to honor and appease Lord Shiva. The word ‘Nath’ in the temple’s name represents Lord Shiva, while ‘Tung’ means arms.

Opening and Closing Dates

The Badri Kedar Temple Committee determines the date of Baisakhi when the Char Dhams of Uttrakhand open in April or May, coinciding with Vaisakh Panchmi. This is when the Tungnath Temple opens. Following Diwali, the temple closes for the winter. During this time, the priests relocate the deity’s “Doly” to Mukumath Temple, which is 19 km from Tungnath.

Opening Dates: 14th May 2024

Closing Dates: November 2024

Tungnath Temple Trek

Starting from Chopta market, the moderate approx 4 kilometer trek to Tungnath takes place. The Tungnath Trek, which takes three to four hours, offers breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks and meadows. Because of the severe snowfall in the winter, the Tungnath Trek might be difficult. Therefore, you should pack hiking boots, a warm winter jacket, water, sunscreen, and any prescription medications.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The summer months of May through June and the fall months of September through November are the ideal times to visit Tungnath Mahadev Temple. The temperature fluctuates between 10°C and 30°C during these lovely months.

The area receives a lot of snowfall from December to February during the winter, and because of the severe weather, the temple is closed. On the other hand, you can schedule your trip for the winter if you’re hoping for an exciting snowy experience. Be aware of the state of the roads and the weather if you intend to travel during the monsoon season.

ATTRACTIONS

HOW TO REACH

By Flight

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport near Tungnath Mahadev Temple, located 220 kilometers away.

By Train

Rishikesh Railway Station is the closest railway station near Tungnath Mahadev Temple, located 206 miles away.

By Road

Rudraprayag, the closest bus stop to the Tungnath Mahadev Temple, is 70 miles away.

From Rudraprayag, ukimath, or Agastmuni to Chopta, shared taxis are offered.

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