Perched at a breathtaking altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the Tungnath Temple is a marvel of ancient architecture and spiritual endurance. As the second stop on the sacred Pancha Kedar circuit, it is not only a deeply revered pilgrimage but also a premier destination for Himalayan trekkers.
The Legend of Lord Shiva’s Arms
According to the Mahabharata, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva to absolve them of the sins of killing their kin. Avoiding them, Shiva took the form of a bull (Nandi) and dove into the ground at Guptkashi. His body parts reappeared at five different locations (the Pancha Kedar). Tungnath is the exact sacred spot where his arms (Bahu) emerged.
The Trek from Chopta (The Mini Switzerland of India)
Unlike the grueling multi-day treks of other Himalayan shrines, Tungnath is highly accessible.
- The Basecamp: The trek begins at Chopta, a stunning meadow region often called the “Mini Switzerland of India.”
- The Distance: It is a steep but well-paved 3.5 km trek from Chopta to the temple.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Most pilgrims and trekkers can complete the ascent in 2 to 3 hours.
- Pro-Tip: From the temple, a further 1.5 km steep hike takes you to Chandrashila Peak (4,000 meters), offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayas, including Nanda Devi and Trishul.
Best Time to Visit & Timings
Like Kedarnath, the Tungnath temple is governed by the harsh Himalayan winter.
- Opening Months: The temple opens around April/May (depending on Akshaya Tritiya) and closes in November.
- Winter Shift: During the winter, the symbolic idol of Lord Shiva is moved to the Markandeshwar Temple in the nearby village of Makkumath for worship.
- Daily Darshan: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM (during the summer season).
How to Reach Chopta (The Starting Point)
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (approx. 200 km).
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh or Haridwar (approx. 200 km).
- By Road: Chopta is well connected by road from Rishikesh, via Devprayag, Srinagar, and Ukhimath. You can hire a shared jeep or private taxi from Rishikesh to reach Chopta in about 7 to 8 hours.
- Planning your basecamp? Check current hotel and luxury camp availability in Chopta on MakeMyTrip here
Continue your sacred journey: Tungnath is the second shrine of the Pancha Kedar Pilgrimage and a vital part of the Himalayan Shiva circuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The 3.5 km path from Chopta is clearly marked, well-paved with stones, and heavily trafficked during the summer. You cannot get lost.
Yes, for elderly pilgrims or those unable to climb the steep incline, ponies and Kandi (basket) services are available at the Chopta basecamp for a fixed fee.
There are a few very basic, shared stone huts and dhabas near the temple for trekkers wanting to catch the sunrise at Chandrashila, but most pilgrims prefer to stay in the comfortable camps and guesthouses down in Chopta.