Tungnath : The Highest Shiva Temple

Kajal, 3 weeks ago, 6 min read, 22 Views

Overview

Tungnath is situated near the charming hill station of Chopta and very pleasant to visit because of the beautiful landscapes around it. Tungnath is the highest Lord Shiva temple in the world and it is located at an elevation of 3680 m above sea level.

One can hardly believe the Himalayan view from the meadows of this temple! In its true colours, the splendor of nature can be seen here at its best; additionally, it forms part of Panch Kedar – the five famous Shrines dedicated to his formlessness in the mountains of Uttarakhand.

One highly recommended destination for anyone visiting Chopta is the abode of Lord Shiva situated at Tungnath. In general, the pilgrimage to Tungnath is conducted as part of the Panch Kedar trekking covering all five temples along a 170 km journey (road cum trek length) commencing from Rishikesh in the order of Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheswar, and Kalpeshwar.

The legend of Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple’s mythology is rooted in the Mahabharata. According to legend, the Pandavas seek atonement for their crimes after defeating the Kauravas in the Mahabharata war. Rishi Vyas proposed that the Pandavas petition Lord Shiva for pardon.

Pandavas searched for Lord Shiva in various directions. Lord Shiva was persuaded that the Pandavas were responsible for slaying their cousins, the Kauravas. As a result, he disguised himself as a bull and hid underground in Guptakashi to avoid the Pandavas.

Later, when Lord Shiva assumed his true form, his bodily parts were discovered in five different locations. The Pandavas built five temples in honour of Lord Shiva in these locations, known as the Panch Kedar.

Each temple is related with a bodily component of the bull (Lord Shiva’s body) unearthed nearby. According to the scriptures, Lord Shiva’s (bahu) hands were seen in Tungnath Temple.

For this reason, the Pandavas built the Tungnath Temple to satisfy Lord Shiva.

You also like Kalpeshwar Mahadev Temple

History of Tungnath Mahadev:

Tungnath Temple has ancient origins. The Pandavas are said to have erected the temple during the Mahabharata period, according to Hindu mythology. According to mythology, during the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas seek Lord Shiva’s blessings to atone for their transgressions. Lord Shiva, disguised as a bull, attempted to evade them but eventually gave in. The temple is thought to have been built on the site where the bull’s hump is claimed to have appeared.

Architecture and design:

The temple was created in the North Indian architectural style, with sloping roofs of wood and stone. A hallowed inner sanctum in the temple, fostered with a Siva Lingam, is believed to be swayambhu (self-manifested). Around this sanctuary runs a boundary of snow blankets and rich grasslands, both enhancing its attractiveness. The route to the temple is on steep slope and is described as very arduous. From the tip of the mountain one gets a bird’s eye view of the great Himalayan ranges

Importance and significance

In the opinion of Hindus who think that when they visit it they are free from their sins and that they are closer to Lord Shiva, the temple is considered to be a critical pilgrimage site for them. It is believed that the temple serves as the entrance to Panch Kedar which consists of five temples where each one is dedicated to Lord Shiva; Kedarnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshvar.

Tungnath Temple is well known to human beings who love nature and are lovers of adventures, besides having the religious aspect associated with it. Going there is an adventure in itself since you get soaked in the beautiful sights of Himalayan ranges and the valleys beyond. The temple is also a favorite spot for birdwatchers that see various species of birds found in this part of the Himalayas.

When is the best time to visit Tungnath Trek?

The temple is usually open throughout April until November, when the best times of the year to go there are May, June and from September until November. This happens because it snows so much in the area where this temple is located that it has to be closed during winter. It’s advised to check current weather situations as well as Tungnath trek package just before you decide on going on trip for your ease only.

Accommodation & Facilities

There are numerous guest houses and lodges in Chopta, the closest town to Tungnath Temple. The journey to the destination is short from other major towns within the Indian state and its environs including the Northern region. Despite this, basic services are provided at the sanctuary like toilets and potable water even though tourists are advised to come along with their own things including warm clothing.

Activities to do in Tungnath

Tungnath isn’t just a tourist destination. However, it provides tourists with the most mesmerizing spiritual and adventurous experiences. It is one of the ancient sanctuaries nestled in the magnificent backdrop that rivals a picture postcard scene.

Pilgrimage- Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple among the five Panch Kedar shrines, and Hindus revere it deeply. Pilgrims on the Char Dham yatra frequently visit Tungnath to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.

Trekking- The tour to Tungnath starts from Chopta. This simple gradient tour leads you to the stunning magnificence of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Bird watching- The region surrounding Tungnath, particularly Chopta, is home to a variety of unique birds. You can see wild goats, Monal, Pika Mouse, and, if you’re lucky, musk deer. The months of February through April are perfect for bird watching.

Nature- Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the adjacent Sari and Chopta villages, Deoria Tal, and the stunning Chandrashila top, which provide a captivating view and dreamlike isolation.

Sari and Chopta are two tranquil villages in Uttarakhand with hidden secrets. The beauty of the sunrise seen over Sari and Chopta is really something you won’t forget quickly. These villages look like paradise when the sun shines on the snow-capped peaks painting them shades of red and orange morning.

Deoria Tal, an emerald water body nestled among the massive Chaukhamba peaks, is a glittering treasure that captivates visitors with its sheer beauty.

Chandrashila top provides a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Garhwal Himalayas. Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghanti, Trishul, Dunagiri, Kamet, Thyalasagar, Chaukhambha, Kedar peak, and many more Gangotri peaks captivate you with their majestic panoramas from the summit.

Tungnath Chandrashila trek lies in Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. The tour takes three days and covers a number of beautiful destinations in Uttarakhand like Chopta, Deoriyatal, Tungnath temple of Shiva and the lengthiest peak Chandrashila (4000m). It is a small hill resort town with grasslands and evergreen woods as well as opportunities for trekking as well tenting. Moreover, it is famous for its beautiful sunsets.

How to get to Tungnath?

By Air

By Train

By Road

The closest airfield to Chopta is in Dehradun, and it’s called Jolly Grant Airport. The trip from there to Panger hamlet which is near Chopta is about 220 km and may take up to 9 hours by car.

From Chopta, the centers of Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh are estimated to be roughly 204, 184, and 162 kilometers far which makes Tungnath reachable by rail.

There are state or private buses which make connections between major cities in India and Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar or Rishikesh. Being 204, 184 and 162 kilometers away from Chopta, it is Dehradun, Haridwar and Rishikesh respectively.

Conclusion

The Tungnath Temple is far more than a pilgrimage site; it symbolizes the high culture of India. Those searching for peace and excitement should visit its serene setting amidst well-known places rich in nature. This holy place speaks to the soul and majesty of the Himalayas in general and India in particular thus it must be visited by everyone following this track.

Related FAQs

How long does the Tungnath Trek last?

Tungnath Trek is only 5 kilometers from Chopta. It may be finished in 4 to 5 hours, with several breaks in between. A large portion of the time required is determined by the trekker’s physical and mental endurance. The Tungnath trek path is the shortest among the Panch Kedar treks.

What is the level of difficulty of the Tungnath Trek?

The trek to Tungnath Temple takes you over 12,000 feet above sea level. It is touted as a reasonably easy walk. The hike passes through dense forests and broad meadows, providing stunning views of the snow-covered Himalayas.

What is unique about Tungnath?

Tungnath Temple in Rudraprayag District is known as the world’s highest Shiva temple, the Tungnath height is 3680 meters. It belongs to the Panch Kedars, which are at least a thousand years old.

Are the Tungnath and Chandrashila Treks the same?

The Tungnath temple is at the top of the Chandrashila Peak which is located 1.5 kilometers away. As we move higher up to the beautiful meadows of the Chandrashila Peak, the path becomes narrower and turns into a trek route made of mainly ascend. It’s the mountain’s last pick.

How ancient is Tungnath Temple?

Tungnath is an extremely important temple in the history and religion. It is believed to be about 1000 years old. The Pandavas erected this shrine during their exile of years and is among five holiest lord Shiva temples called the Panch Kedar.