Perched high in the Garhwal Himalayas, Tungnath Temple – Highest Shiva Shrine in the World, stands as a symbol of devotion and serenity. Located in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, this ancient temple sits at an astounding altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 ft), making it the highest Lord Shiva temple on Earth. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or an adventure lover, the Tungnath Temple trek offers a perfect blend of devotion, breath-taking views, and Himalayan tranquillity. About Tungnath Temple Tungnath, meaning “Lord of the Peaks,” is one of the Panch Kedar temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to mythology, it was built by the Pandavas to seek Lord Shiva’s forgiveness after the Kurukshetra war. The temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and is renowned for its ancient stone architecture, spiritual aura, and stunning mountain backdrop — including Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Kedarnath peaks. Mythological Significance As per legend, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings to absolve their sins. Lord Shiva, disguised as a bull, disappeared into the earth to avoid them.His body parts are believed to have appeared in five locations across Uttarakhand, forming the Panch Kedar circuit: Thus, Tungnath holds immense religious importance as the second temple in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage. Tungnath Temple Trek – A Short and Thrilling Journey The Tungnath Temple trek is one of the most accessible Himalayan treks. The 4–5 km trail begins from Chopta, often called the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.” Trek Details Category Details Starting Point Chopta (2,680 m) Trek Distance 4–5 km Trek Duration 2–3 hours (one way) Difficulty Level Easy to Moderate Best Time to Visit April – November What You’ll See on the Trek Tip: Sunrise from Chandrashila is one of the most mesmerizing sights in Uttarakhand. Best Time to Visit Tungnath Temple The temple remains open from April/May to November, depending on weather and snow conditions. Season Temperature Experience Summer (Apr–Jun) 10°C–25°C Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking Monsoon (Jul–Sep) 8°C–18°C Lush greenery but slippery trails Autumn (Oct–Nov) 5°C–20°C Clear skies, best for photography Winter (Dec–Mar) Below 0°C Temple closed, covered in snow Note: During winter, the deity is shifted to Mukunath, a lower-altitude temple in the valley. How to Reach Tungnath Temple By Air By Road By Train Spiritual Experience at the Highest Lord Shiva Temple The peaceful atmosphere of Tungnath, surrounded by snow-clad peaks and whispering winds, makes it more than just a pilgrimage — it’s a journey inward. The mantras, temple bells, and panoramic silence create an aura of divine energy rarely found elsewhere. Travel Tips for Tungnath Temple Trek Why Visit Tungnath Temple Travel Tips for Tungnath Temple Trek Nearby Attractions Around Tungnath Temple Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. Where is Tungnath Temple located? Tungnath Temple is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, near Chopta, at an altitude of 3,680 meters. 2. What makes Tungnath the highest Lord Shiva temple? At 3,680 meters above sea level, Tungnath is the world’s highest Shiva temple, part of the sacred Panch Kedar circuit. 3. How difficult is the Tungnath Temple trek? The trek is easy to moderate, covering 4–5 km from Chopta and taking about 2–3 hours. 4. When does Tungnath Temple open and close? It opens around April/May and closes by November, depending on snowfall. 5. Can I visit Tungnath during winter? The temple remains closed in winter due to snow, but you can visit Mukunath Temple, where the deity is worshipped during this period. Explore Tungnath Temple Comfortably with Clans Stays Clans Stays offers a seamless travel experience for those visiting Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva shrine in the world. With expert local guides and comfortable stays in Chopta, they ensure a safe and memorable trek to this sacred destination. Every detail from transport to accommodation is carefully managed for a stress-free journey. Choose Clans Stays to experience the divine beauty of Tungnath with comfort and authenticity.