Panch Kedar Yatra – Tungnath Mahadev – Temperature | Best time to visit

October 16, 2021

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Tungnath Mahadev Temple – the Highest Shiva Temple

Tungnath Mahadev – the second of the five Kedars, is high up in the Himalayas. The temple is at an altitude of 3680 meters (12,073 ft) above sea level.

After the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas wanted to atone for their part in the killing of gurus, teachers, cousins, and others. Rishi Vyas, the writer of the Mahabharata advised them to seek pardon from Mahadev.

Mahadev was not very happy with the Pandavas at that time and was avoiding them. He took the form of a bull and was hiding in Guptkashi when the Pandavas found him. When they tried to catch him, the Bull disintegrated into five parts. Which landed in different places.

The Pandavas prayed to Mahadev for forgiveness. And built five temples in those places, which are now known as ‘Panch Kedar’.

Mahadev’s arms (Bahu) landed in Tungnath.

The temple is made of stone and has an ‘Ashtadhatu’ idol of Mahadev. At the forefront, there is an idol of Nandi, Mahadev’s beloved bull facing Mahadev.

Atop the temple is a wooden stage with 16 openings. Inside the temple, there are images of the Pandavas and the remaining Panch Kedars. Next to the temple are various shrines dedicated to Rishi Vyas, Bhairav, and Ganeshji.

Tungnath Trek

The 4 km trek to Tungnath begins from Chopta which is 45 km from Guptkashi. Although, this is the easiest of all the Panch Kedar treks. Chopta is one of the most picturesque villages in the Himalayas. Thus short trek to Tungnath from there is an enchanting experience. Chandrashila peak at an altitude of 4130 meters (13550 feet) is a short distance from Tungnath.

Best Time to visit Tungnath Temple

The best time to visit Tungnath Temple is from April to November. As the weather is pleasant during this time. Tungnath temple is closed during winters due to heavy snowfall. During monsoons, it is better to avoid the visit here due to the possible risk of landslides.