This Tungnath Trek Complete Guide helps you plan a safe and rewarding climb to the highest Shiva temple in the world. Tungnath sits at 3,680 metres above Chopta in Uttarakhand. Moreover, it forms the third temple of the Panch Kedar circuit. First, read our Chopta Travel Guide for travel and stay basics.
Trek at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Starting point | Chopta (about 2,608 m) |
| Temple altitude | 3,680 m |
| Distance to temple | About 3.5 km one way |
| Chandrashila extension | 1.5 km more, around 4,000 m |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate |
| Winter seat of deity | Markandeshwar Temple, Makkumath |
The Route from Chopta
The trail starts right at Chopta and follows a paved stone path. Benches appear at intervals, so you can rest whenever needed. At first, the path winds through oak and rhododendron forest. Then, it opens onto wide meadows with Himalayan views.
The climb stays steady throughout. However, the thinner air makes it feel harder than the distance suggests. Walk at a slow, even pace and take short breaks. Most fit trekkers reach the temple in two to three hours.
Tungnath Temple and Its Story
According to legend, Lord Shiva disappeared into the earth as a bull to avoid the Pandavas. His arms then appeared at Tungnath. Tradition also credits Adi Shankaracharya with reviving the shrine in the 8th century. Interestingly, local Maithani Brahmins from Makkumath serve as the temple priests.
Continue to Chandrashila
From the temple, a steeper 1.5 km trail leads to Chandrashila summit. The path turns rocky, so watch your footing. At the top, you get a 360-degree view of peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath and Chaukhamba. Many trekkers climb before dawn to see sunrise.
When to Do the Trek
The temple usually opens around late April or early May and closes around Diwali. The temple committee announces exact dates every year. In winter, you can still trek, but snow covers the trail and the doors stay closed. Check our guide to the best time to visit Chopta before you fix dates.
What to Pack
- Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip
- Warm layers, a windproof jacket, gloves and a cap
- Water bottle, energy snacks and a small first-aid kit
- Torch or headlamp for early starts
- Rain cover for your bag
Safety Tips
First, rest in Chopta after the long drive before you start. Second, drink water regularly and avoid rushing. Also, start early, because clouds often roll in by afternoon. Finally, turn back if you feel dizzy or unwell. For more ideas, see the best things to do in Chopta and explore more treks on WanderlustTrail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Tungnath trek from Chopta?
The Tungnath trek covers about 3.5 km one way from Chopta on a paved stone path. With the Chandrashila extension, the total distance reaches about 5 km one way. Most trekkers complete the full round trip in five to six hours.
Is the Tungnath trek difficult?
The trek feels easy to moderate for most healthy people. The path stays paved, but the climb remains steady and the air grows thinner. Walk slowly, take regular breaks and drink water. Beginners and older travellers usually manage well at a gentle pace.
Why is Tungnath famous?
Tungnath ranks as the highest Shiva temple in the world at 3,680 metres. It also forms the third temple of the Panch Kedar circuit. Legend says Lord Shiva’s arms appeared here, which makes the shrine deeply important for pilgrims across India.
Can I do the Tungnath trek in winter?
Yes, experienced trekkers often do the route in winter, but snow makes it much harder. The temple doors stay closed, so no darshan happens at the top. Hire a local guide, wear waterproof shoes and check weather forecasts before starting the climb.
Where does the Tungnath deity stay in winter?
In winter, priests move the symbolic deity to Markandeshwar Temple in Makkumath village. Daily worship continues there until the temple reopens in spring. Makkumath lies near Duggalbitta, below the Chopta road, so winter visitors can reach it easily by car.
Do I need a guide for the Tungnath trek?
In spring, summer and autumn, the clear paved trail usually makes a guide optional. However, a local guide adds value in winter, in bad weather or on the Chandrashila section. Guides also share stories about the temple and help with early-morning starts.
What is the best time to start the trek?
Start early in the morning for the clearest views and calmer weather. Clouds often build up by afternoon and hide the peaks. If you want sunrise at Chandrashila, leave Chopta before dawn with a headlamp, warm layers and a trekking partner.