Tunganath : The highest Shiva Temple in the World

Tripoto
17th Feb 2023
Day 1

Tunganath Temple at an altitude of 13,000 ft above sea level, is 200 kms from Rishikesh in district Rudraprayag in the state of Uttarakhand (India). Till Chopta there is a motorable road and to reach Tunganath Temple one has to trek 4 kms uphill, the way initially is dotted with beautiful pink rhododendron flowering trees.
We undertook the trek in early March and there was snow enroute as well as around the centuries old sacred temple.
The temple closes around mid November and opens in April/May. Tunganath Temple is among the 'Panch Kedar' (the 5 Lord Shiva Temples) and is the 'highest Lord Shiva Temple in the world'.
Beautiful Himalayan panorama can be seen from the hilltop. If you trek a kilometre further then you reach 'Chandrashila' a beautiful spot with 180 degree views of the captivating Himalayan snow clad skyline.
Many trekkers & photography enthusiasts undertake the trek from Chopta to Tunganath and Chandrashila at 2-3 am in the night so that they reach the temple at sunrise for magnificent views of the sunrise over Himalayas.
There are lovely resorts available to stay in Chopta & Duggalbitta area which are in the range of Rs.2000 - Rs.5000 per person (inclusive of food). Chopta has the biggest grasslands in the Himalayas known as 'bugyals'. The Dayara Bugyal is the most famous.
Whenever you undertake trek, always have good footwear, essential medicines, sunscreen SPF 50+, chocolates, waterproof jacket. Polarized sunglasses, etc.
Its a lovely trek which you will love it. Do not forget to carry your DSLR or your good smartphone.

The sacred Tunganath Temple

Photo of Tunganath : The highest Shiva Temple in the World by YASHWANT DHWAJ SHAH

Trek to Tunganath Temple

Photo of Tunganath : The highest Shiva Temple in the World by YASHWANT DHWAJ SHAH

View of the snow clad peaks of the Himalayas from Tunganath Temple

Photo of Tunganath : The highest Shiva Temple in the World by YASHWANT DHWAJ SHAH

Trekking route

Photo of Tunganath : The highest Shiva Temple in the World by YASHWANT DHWAJ SHAH

Duggalbitta area of Chopta with lovely tents for stay

Photo of Tunganath : The highest Shiva Temple in the World by YASHWANT DHWAJ SHAH

Atop the hill

Photo of Tunganath : The highest Shiva Temple in the World by YASHWANT DHWAJ SHAH