World highest Shiva temple in tunganath Uttarakhand

Why Visit Tungnath Temple?

• Spiritual Significance: Believed to be over 1,000 years old, it is where Lord Shiva’s arm is worshipped.
• Stunning Views: Offers panoramic vistas of the Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, and Chaukhamba.
• Adventure & Trekking: The trek to Tungnath is moderately challenging and provides breathtaking scenery along the way.
• Peaceful Ambiance: An ideal spot for meditation, spirituality, and connecting with nature.

Key Details for Tourists

Location

• District: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
• Altitude: 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) above sea level

How to Reach Tungnath

1.   By Air:

o   Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (220 km)

o   From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Chopta, the base for the Tungnath trek.

2.   By Train:

o   Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar (225 km)

o   From Haridwar, buses and taxis are available to Chopta.

3.   By Road:

o   Chopta is well-connected via motorable roads to major Uttarakhand towns like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.

o   From Chopta, it’s a 3.5 km trek to the temple.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (April to June): Pleasant weather, clear views, and blooming rhododendrons.
• Autumn (September to November): Ideal for trekking with clear skies and cool weather.
• Avoid Monsoon (July to August): The region experiences heavy rainfall, making the trek slippery and prone to landslides.
• Winter (December to March): Tungnath remains snow-covered, and the temple is inaccessible. However, trekkers visit for snow trekking up to Chopta.

Temple Timings

• Opens: April/May (Exact date depends on Akshaya Tritiya)
• Closes: October/November (After Diwali)
• Daily Hours: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM

The Trek to Tungnath

• Starting Point: Chopta (nicknamed the "Mini Switzerland of India")
• Distance: 3.5 km one way
• Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Highlights: Lush meadows, oak and deodar forests, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Chandrashila Peak

• An additional 1.5 km trek from Tungnath leads to Chandrashila Peak (4,000 meters), offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the Himalayan ranges.

Cultural and Religious Etiquette

• Remove shoes before entering the temple.
• Dress modestly and respect the sanctity of the site.
• Participate in rituals and prayers if you wish, or simply observe respectfully.

Nearby Attractions

• Chopta Meadow: A serene camping spot surrounded by alpine beauty.
• Deoria Tal: A high-altitude lake offering mesmerizing reflections of Chaukhamba peaks (around 20 km from Chopta).
• Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: Perfect for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.

Tips for Tourists

1.   Prepare for the Trek: Wear comfortable trekking shoes and carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.

2.   Weather Readiness: Bring warm clothes, as the weather can change quickly, even in summer.

3.   Local Guides: Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience.

4.   Photography: The trek and the temple provide stunning photo opportunities, so carry your camera or smartphone.

5.   Stay Options:

o   Chopta: Offers basic guesthouses, eco-lodges, and campsites.

o   Rudraprayag: Has more comfortable hotels for those preferring better amenities.

6.   Sustainable Travel: Avoid littering and respect the environment. Carry your waste back to proper disposal points.