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Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple is one of the most revered shrines in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, it is the highest Shiva temple in the world, perched at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas. The name “Tungnath” literally means “Lord of the Peaks”.

ॐ नमः शिवाय
ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्।
उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय माऽमृतात्॥

― Tungnath Temple

The name “Tungnath” literally means “Lord of the Peaks”.

Mythological Significance & History

Tungnath Temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and has strong connections to the Mahabharata. According to legend, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva to absolve themselves of the sin of killing their kin. Shiva, avoiding them, disguised himself as a bull and disappeared into the ground. His body is said to have reappeared at five different places, collectively known as the Panch Kedar. Tungnath is where the arms of Lord Shiva appeared. The temple was later built by the Pandavas to honor Lord Shiva.

Significance of the Temple

One of the Panch Kedar Shrines: It holds immense spiritual significance as one of the five Kedars.
Highest Shiva Temple: At such a high elevation, it is a unique blend of spirituality and nature.
Spiritual Trek: Pilgrims undertake a sacred trek to reach the temple, symbolizing devotion and endurance.
Connection with Nature: Located near Chopta, it offers panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks.

Architecture of the Temple

Tungnath Temple is built in North Indian Himalayan style, using stone slabs. Despite extreme weather conditions, the temple structure has remained intact for centuries. The sanctum sanctorum houses a Shiva lingam made of black stone. The temple complex includes smaller shrines dedicated to other deities like Parvati and Vyas.

How to Reach to Temple

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 220 km away.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 200 km from the base (Chopta).

By Road: Drive or take a bus to Chopta, the base point.

Trek: From Chopta, it’s a 3.5 km trek to the temple. The trail is scenic and moderately easy, suitable for most trekkers.

Temple Timings

  • Morning Temple Opening & Closing Timing

    6:00 AM to 12:00 PM

  • Evening Temple Opening & Closing Timing

    3:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Temple Location

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