REDiaries: Highest Shiva temple in the world...Tungnath, Uttarakhand

The Tungnath temple is located at 3680mts above sea level, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is the highest Shiva temple in the world and Panch Kedar in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. The peak of Tungnath is origination of three springs forming Akashkamini.

Tungnath is reached through dense rhododendron forest and meadows which add a scenic beauty to trek. Hence, Tungnath is also known as Mini Switzerland of India. 1 km of steep trek lead to Chandrashila(Moon Rock) at an altitude of 4000mts above sea level.

Best months to visit Tungnath can be May, June, July and October. This is the time when you will see lush green meadows. During winters temple remains closed and there is snow all over. Many trekkers visit during December and January to enjoy snow.

Chopta can be reached by Ukhimat and Gopeshawar from Rishikesh. From Chopta Tungnath Temple is 3kms trekway. Nearest airport is at Jolly Grant, Dehradun and railhead is at Rishikesh.

I started my journey from Srinagar Garhwal, a small town on a foothills of Himlayas. Chopta is 74kms from Srinagar Garhwal and is well connected by roads with plenty of public transport.

Need to be cautious while riding as road is full of algae in summers and while in winters covered with thin layer of ice.

Peaceful roads


One of the most memorable moment of a journey for me when I spotted a fox crossing the road.

Chopta offers you a great view of meadow and Himalayan range including Nanda Devi, Trishul and Chaukhamba. I was not lucky though as Himalayan range was covered with clouds.

Trek way to Tungnath temple starts from Chopta and one can opt for mule ride till temple.But I preferred to be on foot to explore more closely lush green meadow.

Trek way to Tungnath.

Small huts are made on a way to Tungnath where traveler can take a short break and enjoy the view.

Uncertain weather.

Trek way to Tungnath temple is full of scenic landscape and is a paradise for photographers.

Time for a break.

In winters there is no accommodation in Tungnath temple which you will find open. Whereas in summers lots of options are available for night stay in small huts in Chopta and Tungnath. They charge around Rs. 200/night. These huts are run by locals for 6 months till the time temple is not closed and is a major source of their income. They provide you food, warm bedding and hot water as well.