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.
Popular Pilgrimage Routes in Uttarakhand
The majestic state of Uttarakhand, often called Devbhūmi (Land of the Gods), unfolds a rich tapestry of spiritual routes and sacred sites. In this blog we dive into the Famous Pilgrimage Circuits of Uttarakhand and the many pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand that draw thousands of devotees each year. From river-confluences to Himalayan shrines, each circuit offers a unique blend of faith, nature and cultural heritage. What is a “Pilgrimage Circuit”? A pilgrimage circuit is a connected route of sacred spots that devotees travel through often sequentially to complete a spiritual journey. In Uttarakhand you’ll encounter routes that combine: These circuits boost religious tourism and also help preserve the cultural and environmental fabric of the region. Major Pilgrimage Circuits in Uttarakhand Chota Char Dham Yatra (Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath) This is perhaps the most famous pilgrimage circuit of Uttarakhand — a sacred journey through the Himalayas that covers four divine temples dedicated to major deities of Hinduism. The Four Holy Shrines Why It’s Special Route, Distances & Travel Time Route Distance Travel Time Notes Haridwar → Barkot (Yamunotri Base) 220 km 7–8 hrs Scenic route via Dehradun or Mussoorie. Barkot → Yamunotri (via Janki Chatti) 36 km drive + 6 km trek 3–4 hrs Trek or hire pony. Barkot → Uttarkashi (Gangotri Base) 82 km 3–4 hrs Beautiful mountain roads. Uttarkashi → Gangotri Temple 100 km 4–5 hrs Along the Bhagirathi River. Gangotri → Guptkashi (Kedarnath Base) 290 km 10–12 hrs Long journey; overnight halt suggested. Guptkashi → Kedarnath 30 km drive + 18 km trek 1 day Helicopter available from Phata. Kedarnath → Badrinath 230 km 8–9 hrs Drive via Joshimath. Badrinath → Haridwar 300 km 9–10 hrs Return to plains. Total Duration:10–12 days by road, or 2–4 days by helicopter. Tips for Travellers Panch Kedar (Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, Kalpeshwar) The Panch Kedar circuit is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought Shiva’s forgiveness. The Lord disguised himself as a bull and his body parts appeared at five different sites — forming the five Kedars. The Five Temples Temple Location Elevation Distance (Approx.) Key Feature Kedarnath Rudraprayag 3,583 m 223 km from Rishikesh Hump of Shiva’s bull form. Tungnath Rudraprayag 3,680 m 208 km from Rishikesh Highest Shiva temple in the world. Rudranath Chamoli 2,286 m 228 km from Rishikesh Face of Lord Shiva. Madhyamaheshwar Rudraprayag 3,497 m 195 km from Rishikesh Navel of Shiva. Kalpeshwar Chamoli 2,200 m 240 km from Rishikesh Locks (Jata) of Shiva. Why Its Special Total Duration:10–14 days for full circuit by road and trek. Tips for Travellers Panch Badri (Badrinath, Adi Badri, Vriddha Badri, Bhavishya Badri, Yogdhyan Badri) The Panch Badri circuit honours Lord Vishnu in five forms across the Alaknanda Valley. The Five Sacred Badri Temples Temple Location Elevation Distance (Approx.) Importance Badrinath Chamoli 3,133 m 295 km from Rishikesh Main Vishnu shrine. Adi Badri Karnaprayag 1,380 m 195 km from Rishikesh Ancient Gupta-period temple. Vriddha Badri Joshimath 1,380 m 240 km from Rishikesh Vishnu’s old age form. Bhavishya Badri Tapovan 2,744 m 274 km from Rishikesh Said to become future Badrinath. Yogdhyan Badri Pandukeshwar 1,920 m 270 km from Rishikesh Where King Pandu meditated. Why It’s Special Total Duration:5–7 days by road. Tips for Travellers Sapta Badri (Extended Vishnu Circuit) The Sapta Badri (Seven Badri) expands the Panch Badri route by adding Ardha Badri and Dhyan Badri, forming a deeper spiritual trail. Duration: 7–9 days, including local stays. Highlights: Nanda Devi & Jageshwar Temples These are among the most revered individual pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand outside the main circuits. Nanda Devi Temple (Almora) Jageshwar Dham (Near Almora) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What are the main pilgrimage circuits of Uttarakhand?The major ones are Chota Char Dham, Panch Kedar, Panch Badri, and Sapta Badri circuits. 2. How long does it take to complete the Char Dham Yatra?Around 10–12 days by road or 2–4 days by helicopter. 3. Which is the best time to visit these pilgrimage sites?From April to October, except during monsoon. 4. Are these circuits suitable for elderly travellers?Yes, with helicopter options and private transport, all major temples are accessible. 5. How can I plan a comfortable pilgrimage tour?You can book customized itineraries via Clans Stays for safe and hassle-free travel. Why Choose Clans Stays for Your Uttarakhand Pilgrimage Clans Stays ensures a seamless and comfortable experience for every pilgrim exploring the Famous Pilgrimage Circuits of Uttarakhand. With private transport, verified stays, and expert local guidance, your journey remains safe, organized, and stress-free. From personalized itineraries to helicopter packages, Clans Stays takes care of every detail — so you can focus on your spiritual connection, not travel worries.
