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Tungnath
Location
Rudraprayag district in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state, India.
Distance
National Capital Delhi: 450 km State Capital Dehradun: 252 km
Altitude
3,680 meters (12,073 feet) above sea level.
Best Season To Visit
May to June and September to November
Facts About Tungnath
Tungnath is a sacred temple town and a popular trekking destination located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It is renowned for housing the highest Shiva temple in the world, the Tungnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The trek to Tungnath starts from the town of Chopta, which is also known as the "Mini Switzerland" of Uttarakhand due to its picturesque beauty. The total trekking distance from Chopta to Tungnath is around 3.5 kilometers (approximately 2.2 miles), and it usually takes around 2-3 hours to complete.
The trail takes you through dense forests of rhododendron and oak trees, offering mesmerizing views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After reaching the Tungnath Temple, trekkers can continue further to Chandrashila, which is another 1.5 kilometers from Tungnath and stands at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). Chandrashila offers stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedar Peak.
Tungnath is not only a spiritual destination but also a great place for meditation and experiencing the serenity of the Himalayan region. The temple and the surrounding area are open to visitors during the summer months, generally from May to November, when the weather is favorable for trekking. It is an enriching experience to visit Tungnath and witness the beauty of nature and spirituality coming together in the lap of the Himalayas.
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Tungnath :- Famous Visiting Places
1. Tungnath Temple
Tungnath Temple is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world, situated at an elevation of approximately 3,680 meters. It is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance. Pilgrims and trekkers visit Tungnath to seek blessings and experience the serene ambiance amidst the majestic Himalayas.
2. Chandrashila Peak
Chandrashila Peak is located at an elevation of about 4,000 meters, is the summit point of the Tungnath trek. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. The peak is a popular spot for trekking and provides a rewarding experience with its stunning vistas.
3. Deoria Tal
Deoria Tal is located at an elevation of around 2,438 meters, is a picturesque lake situated near the starting point of the Tungnath trek. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and the reflection of the surrounding peaks. It is a serene spot for camping and relaxation, offering beautiful views of the Himalayas.
4. Chopta
Chopta is often referred to as the 'Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand', is a charming hill station located at an altitude of about 2,600 meters. It serves as the base for the Tungnath trek and is known for its lush meadows, dense forests, and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Chopta is a popular destination for trekking, camping, and nature walks.
5. Madhyamaheshwar
Madhyamaheshwar is part of the Panch Kedar circuit, is another significant pilgrimage site located in the Garhwal region. Although it is a separate trek, it is often included in the itinerary for those visiting Tungnath due to its religious importance and scenic beauty. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated at an elevation of about 3,289 meters.
6. Kedarnath
Kedarnath is a prominent pilgrimage site and one of the Panch Kedar temples, is located at an elevation of approximately 3,583 meters. Although it is not directly connected to Tungnath, it is often visited in conjunction with Tungnath due to its spiritual significance. Kedarnath offers stunning views of the Kedarnath Range and is an important destination for devotees.
7. Themed Cafes and Local Markets
In the vicinity of Chopta and along the trek route, visitors can find small cafes and local markets offering traditional Kumaoni food and souvenirs. These places provide a glimpse into the local culture and offer a chance to enjoy traditional dishes and shop for handicrafts.
How to Reach
By Road
Reaching Tungnath involves a combination of road travel and trekking. Here's a general guide on how to reach Tungnath: From Rudraprayag: Rudraprayag serves as a major town and is well-connected by road to other parts of Uttarakhand. From Rudraprayag, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Chopta, which is around 60 kilometers (37 miles) away. From Chopta: Chopta serves as the base camp for the Tungnath trek. From here, you'll need to trek approximately 3.5 kilometers (about 2.2 miles) to reach Tungnath Temple. The trek is moderate in difficulty and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Tungnath is the Rishikesh Railway Station, which is approximately 215 kilometers (134 miles) away. From Rishikesh, you can take a taxi or bus to Rudraprayag and then proceed to Chopta.
By Air
The nearest airport to Tungnath is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 239 kilometers (149 miles) away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Rudraprayag, and then proceed to Chopta, the base camp for the Tungnath trek. It's advisable to check weather conditions and road accessibility before planning your trip, especially during the monsoon and winter seasons when the region may experience heavy rainfall and snowfall, respectively. Additionally, it's recommended to carry sufficient water, snacks, and warm clothing during the trek.
Climate & Weather
summer
Summer (April to June): Tungnath experiences a cool summer, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The weather is ideal for trekking to the Tungnath temple, one of the highest Shiva temples in the world. The clear skies offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the temple.
monsoon
Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall, with temperatures between 8°C and 15°C. The region becomes lush and green, but the rains can make the trekking trails slippery and challenging. Landslides are also common in this season.
autumn
Autumn (October to November): Autumn is cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. The postmonsoon season offers clear skies and fresh air, making it an ideal time for trekking. The landscape is vibrant, and the temple area is serene.
winter
Winter (December to February): Winters in Tungnath are harsh, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. The temple is covered in snow, and the trek becomes challenging due to the extreme cold. The temple is usually closed during this season, but adventurous trekkers can still visit the snowcovered region.
Hotels Around Tungnath
In the immediate vicinity of Tungnath, you won't find hotels or accommodation options due to its remote location and rugged terrain. However, nearby towns like Chopta, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath offer various lodging options ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Here are some suggestions:
1. Chopta: Chopta is the base camp for the Tungnath trek and offers a few guesthouses and campsites for trekkers and travelers. Options include tents, basic guesthouses, and small hotels providing essential amenities.
2. Rudraprayag: Rudraprayag is a larger town with more lodging options. You can find mid-range hotels and guesthouses offering comfortable stays along with basic amenities.
3. Ukhimath: Ukhimath, located at the base of Tungnath, also provides accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. It's a convenient place to stay before or after visiting Tungnath.
When planning your stay, it's advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. Additionally, consider factors like proximity to your desired trekking route and amenities provided by the accommodation.: