Tungnath Temple Chopta - the sun is setting over a snowy mountain
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Tungnath Temple Chopta

4.8
·11k reviews·Rudraprayag, India

World's highest Shiva temple, a spiritual trek through stunning Himalayan landscapes to divine peace.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

March-April

Blooming Buransh flowers

CrowdMedium
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Tungnath Temple Chopta - the sun is setting over a snowy mountain

Tungnath Temple Chopta

Best Time

March-April

Blooming Buransh flowers

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

World's highest Shiva temple, a spiritual trek through stunning Himalayan landscapes to divine peace.

4.8
(11k reviews)

"The tranquility, fresh mountain air, and panoramic sunrise make it a must-visit destination."

Vertical photo
TIP

Sunrise at Chandrashila

Start trek by 3 AM for an unforgettable sunrise view from Chandrashila summit. :sunrise_clock:

Trekker's Footwear

Wear sturdy trekking shoes for a comfortable and safe journey on the mountain trails. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple

Summit of Tungnath Peak

World's highest Shiva temple, offering divine peace amidst breathtaking Himalayan vistas.

Chandrashila Summit

Chandrashila Summit

2 km beyond Tungnath Temple

Panoramic 360° views of the Himalayas, especially stunning at sunrise.

Chopta Meadows

Chopta Meadows

En route to Tungnath

Lush green meadows and serene landscapes, perfect for a peaceful nature walk.

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Planning Your Visit

Trek Timing is Key

The Tungnath Temple trek is best enjoyed during specific seasons. Visit from March to April for blooming Buransh flowers or January-February for a magical snow-covered experience. The temple itself is closed from November to April, but the trek is still accessible for nature lovers.

Reaching Chopta & Guides

From Delhi, consider trains or buses to reach Chopta. For the trek, local advice is invaluable. Look for genuine guides or groups to enhance your experience and safety on this high-altitude adventure.

Best Times

When
March-April
Why
Blooming Buransh flowers
Crowd
Medium
When
January-February
Why
Magical snow-covered trails
Crowd
Medium
When
May-October
Why
Temple open, clear views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Pathways to Tungnath Temple

Sunrise at Chandrashila

Start trek by 3 AM for an unforgettable sunrise view from Chandrashila summit. :sunrise_clock:

Trekker's Footwear

Wear sturdy trekking shoes for a comfortable and safe journey on the mountain trails. :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

Need advice regarding chopta tungnath trek

Temple Closure

Tungnath Temple is closed Nov-Apr. Enjoy the trek and scenery, but no temple darshan. :closed_umbrella:

Hydration is Key

Carry enough water to stay hydrated during the trek, especially at higher altitudes. :droplet:

Tips

from all over the internet

Sunrise at Chandrashila

Start trek by 3 AM for an unforgettable sunrise view from Chandrashila summit. :sunrise_clock:

Trekker's Footwear

Wear sturdy trekking shoes for a comfortable and safe journey on the mountain trails. :athletic_shoe:

Temple Closure

Tungnath Temple is closed Nov-Apr. Enjoy the trek and scenery, but no temple darshan. :closed_umbrella:

Hydration is Key

Carry enough water to stay hydrated during the trek, especially at higher altitudes. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spiritual serenity and breathtaking Himalayan views from Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila summit. The moderate trek is a highlight, offering a rewarding experience for nature and adventure lovers. However, the temple's seasonal closure and unpredictable mountain weather are points of consideration.

"Easy trek of 4km. It took me 2 hours to reach the temple and one hour to get down. Chandrashila is further 2km trek from the temple. Where you will get 360° view of mountains. Its a good trek for all weather. If you like snow trek visit the place in Jan & Feb to have experience of snow covered trails. If you like flowers and colorful trek, this trek is full of Buransh flower in Mar and Apr. But the temple is closed from Nov to Apr. So during this period you can only enjoy trek and surroundings.
While from May to Oct the temple is open and you can visit the temple. But wont get any good views like snow and flowers. So it depends on your purpose and choice.
I visited this place twice. Once in Mar end and second time in Oct starting this year. Sharing pics for reference of both the season. For Chandrashila view, I would suggest to start the trek in night or early morning around 3am to see sunrise from Chandrashila. Or plan your trek to reach Chandrashila before 2 pm in the afternoon. Because after 2pm weather changes in mountains and there will be clouds and you won't be able to get any view as they are thick clouds and wont be clear after 2pm."

Pragya Patel

"Amazing trekking and we did at night under full moon day and had a full divine experience. Spotted a Nilgai and it will take 2-3 hours to trek . When you reached the top level you will get the darshan of Lord Shiv who is sitting at world highest temple"

Krish S

"The Chopta trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush meadows, and a serene atmosphere. The route to Tungnath Temple, the world’s highest Shiva temple, is both spiritual and scenic. The tranquility, fresh mountain air, and panoramic sunrise make it a must-visit destination for nature and adventure lovers."

AMIT D J

What People Like

Divine spiritual experience
Panoramic Himalayan views
Rewarding moderate trek

What People Dislike

Temple closed in winter
Sudden weather changes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Delhi, you can take a train or bus to Rishikesh or Haridwar, then a bus or taxi to Chopta. The trek to Tungnath Temple starts from Chopta. Some travelers opt for overnight buses to reach the base. Reddit

Buses and shared taxis are common options to reach Chopta from major towns like Rishikesh or Dehradun. Hiring a private taxi offers more flexibility but is more expensive. Reddit

No, Tungnath Temple is only accessible by trekking. The trek starts from Chopta, which is motorable. Reddit

Direct buses are rare. You'll likely need to travel to a major hub like Rishikesh or Haridwar first and then find onward transport to Chopta. Reddit

The nearest major railway stations are Rishikesh and Haridwar. From there, you can continue your journey to Chopta by road. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entry fee to visit Tungnath Temple itself. However, you might encounter nominal charges for parking or facilities at the base. Reddit

Tungnath Temple is typically open from May to October. It remains closed during the winter months (November to April) due to heavy snowfall. Reddit

No advance booking is required for the trek to Tungnath Temple. You can start your trek from Chopta anytime during the temple's open season. Reddit

The temple is closed during winter (Nov-Apr). While the trek route might be accessible for experienced trekkers, the temple premises are shut. Reddit

Generally, no specific permits are required for the Tungnath trek. However, it's always good to check local regulations before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The trek from Chopta to Tungnath Temple typically takes 2-3 hours one way, depending on your pace. The trek to Chandrashila is an additional 1-2 hours. Reddit

The trek is considered moderate. It's a well-defined path, but the altitude can make it challenging for some. Proper acclimatization is recommended. Reddit

Tungnath Temple is situated at an altitude of approximately 12,073 feet (3,670 meters) above sea level. Reddit

Chandrashila offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas, including peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedar. Reddit

Yes, local guides are available at Chopta. Hiring a guide is recommended, especially if you are trekking for the first time or during challenging weather conditions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire trek offers stunning photo opportunities. Key spots include the meadows, the temple itself, and especially the panoramic views from Chandrashila summit. Reddit

For sunrise, aim to reach Chandrashila by 3 AM. For sunset, try to be there before 2 PM as weather can change rapidly. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A telephoto lens can capture distant peaks. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. Reddit

Drone usage might be restricted in sensitive areas or near religious sites. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

Morning light is soft and ideal for landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details. Evening light offers warm tones. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Tungnath trek can be a rewarding experience for families, but it requires careful planning. The 4-5 km trek to the temple is moderate, but the altitude can be a factor for younger children. Consider carrying them for parts of the trek or taking frequent breaks. Ensure children are well-hydrated and dressed in layers. The stunning natural beauty and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the temple can be very inspiring for kids. Reddit

For families, visiting during the warmer months (May-October) is advisable. While the temple is closed in winter, the surrounding Chopta region offers beautiful meadows that can be explored. If planning to trek to Chandrashila, assess your children's stamina and the weather conditions carefully. The views are spectacular, but the additional climb might be strenuous for very young children. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

Tungnath is a popular destination for solo travelers seeking spiritual solace and adventure. The well-trodden path to the temple offers a sense of security. However, it's always wise to inform someone about your travel plans and stay connected. Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience and provide valuable insights into the region's culture and history. Reddit

Solo travelers often find the tranquility of the mountains and the spiritual ambiance of Tungnath deeply rejuvenating. The trek provides ample opportunities for introspection and connecting with nature. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and carry essentials like water, snacks, and appropriate clothing. The journey to Chandrashila summit is particularly rewarding for solo adventurers seeking unparalleled views. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiritual Significance of Tungnath

Tungnath Temple is revered as the highest Shiva temple in the world, nestled at an altitude of 12,073 feet. It is one of the Panch Kedar temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Legend states that Lord Rama meditated here after defeating Ravana. The temple's ancient architecture and serene ambiance contribute to its profound spiritual aura, drawing devotees seeking peace and divine blessings. The journey to Tungnath is often described as a pilgrimage, a path to spiritual solace amidst the majestic Himalayas. Reddit

The temple's location is not just spiritually significant but also offers an unparalleled connection with nature. The surrounding landscape is dotted with ancient trees and offers a sense of profound tranquility. Many visitors report feeling a deep sense of calm and rejuvenation after their visit, attributing it to both the spiritual energy of the temple and the pristine natural environment. Reddit

Trekking to Tungnath and Chandrashila

The trek to Tungnath Temple from Chopta is a moderate 4-5 km trail, typically taking 2-3 hours. The path is well-maintained and winds through beautiful forests and meadows, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. For those seeking even more spectacular views, the trek continues for another 2 km to the Chandrashila summit. This extension offers a challenging but incredibly worthwhile climb. Reddit

Reaching Chandrashila before sunrise is a highly recommended experience. Starting the trek around 3 AM allows you to witness the sun painting the Himalayan peaks in a myriad of colors. The 360-degree panoramic view from Chandrashila is often described as breathtaking, providing an unobstructed vista of some of the highest mountains in India. However, it's crucial to plan your timing, as weather can change rapidly, with clouds often rolling in by early afternoon. Reddit