Everything You Need To Know About Tungnath Trek
Tungnath Trek is well-known among Char Dham Yatra travelers. The trek is not that tough and is the way to the highest Shiva temple in the world.
Travelers from every part of India visit this untouched natural beauty and ambiance. It also provides plenty of adventure options. Trekking in the Garhwal Himalaya and fully exploring it adds to this journey. After a tough hike, the beautiful pathways and gorgeous views are a treat for the hikers.
For the year 2026, the Tungnath Temple Kapat opening date is 22nd April 2026, marking the beginning of the pilgrimage season.
About Tungnath Temple
Tungnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be over 1000 years old. According to mythology, it is the place where Lord Shiva’s arms appeared after the Mahabharata war, making it a sacred site for devotees.
At an altitude of around 3680 meters, Tungnath stands as the highest Shiva Temple in the world. The peaceful environment, snowy peaks and spiritual energy make it a unique destination for pilgrims and nature lovers alike.
Tungnath Trek Overview
The Tungnath trek starts from Chopta, a beautiful hill station often called the “Mini Switzerland of India.” The trek is short but steep and offers stunning views throughout the journey.
Key Highlights:
- Starting Point: Chopta
- Destination: Tungnath Temple
- Distance: Approximately 3.5 to 4 km (one way)
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Trek Duration: 2 to 3 Hours
The trail is well-paved with stone steps and surrounded by lush green forests of rhododendron, oak and deodar trees.
Chandrashika Peak – The Real Highlight
After reaching Tungnath Temple, trekkers can continue to Chandrashila Peak, which is located about 1.5 to 2 km further.
Why Chandrashila is Special:
- Offers 360-degree Himalayan views
- Visible peaks include Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba and Kedarnath range
- Famous for sunrise views over snow-capped mountains
Trek Extension:
- Tungnath to Chandrashila: Steep climb
- Total Altitude: Approximately 400 meters
This extension is highly recommended for adventure lovers and photographers.
Tungnath Temple Kapat Opening Date 2026
The Tungnath Temple opens every year in summer after remaining closed for nearly 6 months due to snow.
- Opening Date: 22nd April 2026
After this date, the temple remains open till October-November, depending on weather conditions.
Best Time For Tungnath Trek
The best time for the Tungnath hike is during May month. The summer weather works best for hikers. Moreover, it is the time when they transport the deity of Lord Tungnath from Mukumath to Tungnath.
To make the adventure more thrilling, you can also go trekking between January and March.
In the Mountains, the temperature averages 16 degrees during the summer. Hence this weather is relatively comfortable. It is advisable to carry light woolen to remain warm since the weather may turn chilly at night.
Hiking the Tungnath trek during the monsoon is more difficult. Because there are high chances of landslides and road closures due to heavy rainfall. The monsoon season makes the climb to Chopta challenging.
Trekkers can take in the snow-covered mountains and paths during the winter Tungnath trip. Chopta is at its most beautiful in the winter, but there aren’t many places to stay. Once the snow begins to fall in December, the Tungnath hike may become more challenging.
History Of Tungnath Temple
Tungnath temple is the highest shrine of Lord Shiva in the entire world. Located on the Chandranath Parvat, the tranquil Tungnath shrine is one of a kind. This holy temple is at the summit of the mountain crest, separating the Alaknanda River from the Mandakini River.
The peak of Tungnath is the reason for developing the three springs. It is also responsible for the Akashkamini River’s formation.
Unquestionably, it is worthwhile to visit this more-than-a-thousand-year-old temple. Tungnath temple is 3,680 meters above sea level. It is the highest of the five temples devoted to Lord Shiva in the Panch Kedar group, yet getting it is not difficult.
Among the five Kedar (Panch Kedar), Tungnath is the third Kedar (Tritiya Kedar). Tungnath temple is well-known for its magnificent structure and beautiful layout.
Arjuna, the third Pandava brother, set the temple’s foundation. The temple is in the North Indian architectural style.
According to a tale, Lord Rama used meditation to lift the Brahmahatya curse placed upon him for defeating Ravana. There is a stunning primary idol of Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati. Moreover, there are a dozen additional God shrines surrounding this shrine.
How To Reach Tungnath
The distance between Chopta and Tungnath is around 4 kilometers. Hence, the hikers must first travel to Chopta before beginning the Tungnath trek. The starting point for the Tungnath trek is Chopta. Chopta is a town in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand at an elevation of 2600 meters.
Adored with snow meadows during the winter, Chopta to Tungnath trek is breathtaking. The Tungnath trek path is filled with conifers, mists, and snow, which adds to the journey’s excitement and makes it a necessary walk.
You must first travel 225 kilometers from Haridwar to Chopta by road or train. Another option for travel is by plane. The Jolly Grant Airport is 260 kilometers away from Chopta. This is the closest airport. Take a public bus to Chopta from this city that is often serviced after that.
There are two or three ways to get to Tungnath from Chopta. But the one indicated is probably the most effective. You must travel to Sari, which is eight hours away from Haridwar. You can also make plans to stop at this charming base camp. Because there are several available campsites, homestays, and guest houses.
Accommodation Options Near Tungnath Temple
There are no hotels or stay optiosn at Tungnath Temple itself due to its high altitude and protected area. Most visitors stay at nearby places like Chopta, Duggalbitta and Ukhimath. Chopta offers dharamshalas, basic camps, dormitories and homestays, which are closest to the trek starting point.
It is better to book in advance during peak season (April to June and September to October) as rooms get full quickly.
FAQs:
- Where to stay when visiting the Tungnath Temple?
You can stay either at Rudraprayag or in Ukhimath, depending on your Char Dham route. Tungnath temple is approx 70 km from Rudraprayag and 26 km from Ukhimath. YatraDham has the best and most affordable accommodations in Rudraprayag and Ukhimath.
- What is the opening date of Tungnath Temple this year?
In 2026, the opening date of the Tungnath Temple is 22nd April. April to June is the ideal time to visit Tungnath Temple. The best time to visit the Tungnath Temple is right now. Wintertime snowfall renders the location inaccessible to the worshippers. While the weather is lovely and there will be no rain, you might also think about coming here in August.
- How long is the Tungnath trek?
The Chopta Tungnath Trek is a short, 3.5-kilometer walk with a gentle ascent. This easy trek brings you to Tungnath at an amazing elevation of 3500 meters! The Chopta Tungnath Trek is doable for novices in good physical condition.
- Where to stay during Char dham yatra with family?
There are many good hotels, dharamshala, and ashrams ideal for families at various char dham yatra locations. YatraDham.Org works dedicatedly to promote the best accommodations for Char Dham Yatris. We have plenty of options suitable for every family, budget, and need. Check out our Char Dham Accommodations here.
