This Tungnath Temple Travel Guide gives pilgrims and trekkers everything they need for a smooth visit. Tungnath stands at 3,680 metres above Chopta in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. Moreover, it holds the title of the highest Shiva temple in the world. Start with our Chopta Travel Guide for the wider trip plan.
Why Tungnath Matters
Tungnath forms the third temple of the Panch Kedar circuit. The other four shrines include Kedarnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Rudranath and Kalpeshwar. In addition, the temple sits on the ridge that divides the Mandakini and Alaknanda valleys. As a result, the views from the courtyard feel enormous.
Interestingly, Maithani Brahmins from Makkumath village serve as priests here. This local tradition makes Tungnath different from several other Kedar shrines. For the full backstory, read our guide to Tungnath Temple History, Mythology & Travel Guide.
How to Reach Tungnath Temple
First, travel to Chopta by road via Rishikesh, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath. Next, walk the paved trail of about 3.5 km from Chopta to the temple. Benches appear along the way, so you can rest often. Most fit walkers reach the shrine in two to three hours.
For a step-by-step route, see our Chopta to Tungnath Trek Distance, Route & Difficulty guide.
Temple Season and Winter Seat
The temple usually opens around late April or early May and closes around Diwali. The temple committee announces the exact dates each year. After closing, priests carry the symbolic deity to Markandeshwar Temple in Makkumath. There, daily worship continues through winter. Our Makkumath Travel Guide explains how to visit.
Darshan Tips
- Start early, because clouds often build up by afternoon.
- Dress modestly and remove footwear before entering the shrine.
- Carry warm layers, since wind feels cold even in summer.
- Keep cash for offerings, as digital payments may not work up high.
Combine Tungnath with Chandrashila
Most visitors continue 1.5 km beyond the temple to Chandrashila summit. The steep climb rewards you with a wide Himalayan panorama. Therefore, plan a full morning for both. Our Tungnath and Chandrashila Two-Day Itinerary shows how to pace it. Explore more spiritual journeys on WanderlustTrail.
Temple Etiquette for Visitors
Tungnath remains an active place of worship, so respectful behaviour matters. First, keep your voice low inside the temple complex. Next, follow the priests’ instructions during rituals and avoid photography where signs prohibit it. Also, carry all plastic and wrappers back to Chopta, because the fragile meadows lie inside the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Finally, give way to elderly pilgrims on the narrow sections of the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Tungnath Temple located?
Tungnath Temple stands at 3,680 metres in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It sits on a ridge above Chopta, dividing the Mandakini and Alaknanda valleys. Visitors reach it on foot via a paved trail of about 3.5 km from Chopta.
Is Tungnath the highest Shiva temple in the world?
Yes, Tungnath holds the title of the highest Shiva temple in the world at 3,680 metres. It also ranks as the highest of the five Panch Kedar temples. Pilgrims and trekkers from across India visit it every season when the doors open.
When does Tungnath Temple open?
Tungnath usually opens around late April or early May and closes around Diwali in October or November. The temple committee announces exact dates every year. Therefore, check the latest announcement before you finalise your travel plans for darshan at the shrine.
Who performs the rituals at Tungnath?
Maithani Brahmins from Makkumath village perform the rituals at Tungnath. This tradition connects the temple closely with the local community. In winter, the same priests move with the symbolic deity to Markandeshwar Temple in Makkumath and continue daily worship there.
How long does it take to reach Tungnath?
Most fit walkers reach Tungnath in two to three hours from Chopta. Beginners and older visitors may need longer, so start early. The paved path includes benches, which makes regular rest easy. The return walk usually takes less time.
Can I visit Tungnath in winter?
You can trek to Tungnath in winter, but the temple doors stay closed. Snow usually covers the trail, so the climb feels much harder. For darshan, visit Markandeshwar Temple in Makkumath, where priests keep the symbolic deity during winter.
Is there an entry fee for Tungnath Temple?
Travellers generally do not report an entry fee for darshan at Tungnath Temple. However, carry cash for offerings, snacks and small purchases along the trail. Digital payments can fail at high altitude, so a little cash keeps your visit stress-free.