Tungnath Temple: Highest Shiva Temple in the World

Out of all the Shiva Temples in the world, Tungnath Temple is the highest temple which is situated in the Rudraprayag District of Uttarakhand. It is situated at a height of 3,680 metres.

Tungnath Temple is located near the mesmerizing hill station of Chopta. Tungnath Temple comes second in the order of the Panch Kedar and is directly linked with the Pandavas.

Tungnath Temple is believed to be established over 1000 years ago and is believed to be constructed by the Pandavas after Kurukshetra.

Tungnath Temple is made up of stones and includes a wooden stage at the highest dome, which has sixteen openings. This temple is constructed according to the North Indian Hindu Architecture style. The chamber includes “ashtadhatu” which is composed of eight metals, idols of saint Vyas and Kala Bhairav, and the followers of Lord Shiva.

Religious Significance of Tungnath Temple

According to Hindu Mythology, Tungnath Temple was constructed by the Pandavas after the end of the Kurukshetra war. It is believed that they constructed this temple to please Lord Shiva, as he was angry after all the destruction caused by the Kurukshetra war.

The word Tungnath is derived from ‘Tung’, meaning arms and ‘Nath’ symbolizing Lord Shiva. According to the Temple history, sage Vyas Rishi advised the Pandavas that their sins will only be forgiven if they will worship Lord Shiva and make him happy.

However, lord Shiva took the form of a bull to hide from them. When Pandavas found Lord Shiva, his body parts were rematerialized at five different locations and “Tungnath” is the place where Lord Shiva hands were found.

How To Reach Tungnath Temple

By Air:

Jolly Grant Airport is 190km away from Chopta. You can easily find taxis outside the Airport.

By Train:

The nearest Railway station to Chopta is located in Rishikesh. The distance between Rishikesh and Chopta is 180 km.

By Road:

Chopta is located on NH07. You can easily find buses and taxis from nearby cities. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath can be covered in 2 to 3 hours.

Things to Know Before Visiting Tungnath Temple

Opening and Closing of the Temple

Tungnath Temple is opened around April or May when the Char Dhams of Uttarakhand is opened. It is closed during the winter season and the image of the deity is moved to Mukunath which is 19 km away from Tungnath

Best Time to Visit Tungnath Temple

The best season is during summer as you will be able to find pleasant weather during this time of the season.

Trekking near Tungnath Temple

Out of all the Panch Kedar trek routes, the Tungnath trek is among the shorter ones at just 3.5 km from Chopta. You will find amazing views and dense forest on this route.

Distance of Tungnath Temple from Nearby Cities:

You can enjoy various places while visiting the Tungnath Temple, which includes Chandrashila and Tungnath Himalayan Trekking and Camping, Chopta Trek, beautiful flora and fauna around the Tungnath Trek, Hemkund Himalayan Trek and Camping.