Tungnath Temple is a Hindu shrine located in Uttarakhand, India, at an elevation of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), making it the world’s highest Shiva temple. It is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage, a circuit of five Shiva temples, and is typically visited third after Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar. The temple offers panoramic views of Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
Kedarnath, another significant Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated at 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a component of the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage to four sacred sites in Uttarakhand. According to Hindu tradition, the Kedarnath Temple was constructed by the Pandavas, characters from the Mahabharata epic.
Both Tungnath and Kedarnath are important pilgrimage destinations for Hindus, attracting numerous devotees annually.
Historical significance of Tungnath Temple
The Legend of Lord Shiva and the Pandavas
It is believed that after the great Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to atone for their sins of killing their own kin in the war. However, Lord Shiva was not ready to forgive them and took the form of a bull to avoid them. The Pandavas chased him and finally found him at Tungnath, where the bull’s body parts were scattered. The hump of the bull appeared at Kedarnath, the arms at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the belly at Madhyamaheshwar, and the hair at Kalpeshwar.
Religious Significance and Scriptural References
Therefore, Tungnath is considered to be a sacred site where Lord Shiva’s arms are worshipped. The temple is also mentioned in various Hindu scriptures and texts, including the Skanda Purana. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya, a great Hindu philosopher and theologian, visited Tungnath and established a tradition of worship at the temple.
Architecture and Atmosphere
The architecture of the temple reflects the ancient North Indian style and is made of stone slabs and wood. The sanctum sanctorum houses a black stone idol of Lord Shiva, along with idols of Parvati and Nandi. The temple holds immense religious significance for devotees and offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere amidst the majestic Himalayas.
Distance between Tungnath Temple and Kedarnath
The distance between Tungnath Temple and Kedarnath is approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) by road. However, due to the mountainous terrain and lack of direct road connectivity, reaching Tungnath from Kedarnath requires a combination of road travel and trekking. The two temples are located in close proximity to each other in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, making it convenient for pilgrims to visit both sites during their religious journey.
The route from Kedarnath to Tungnath involves traveling through picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and steep mountain trails. The journey offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and glistening rivers, providing a truly immersive experience in nature’s beauty. Pilgrims can also witness the unique flora and fauna of the region while traversing through this scenic route.
Modes of transportation to reach Tungnath Temple from Kedarnath
There are several modes of transportation available to reach Tungnath Temple from Kedarnath, each offering a different experience and level of convenience. The most common mode of transportation is by road, which involves hiring a taxi or taking a shared jeep from Kedarnath to Chopta, a small town located at the base of Tungnath. From Chopta, pilgrims can either trek or hire a local vehicle to reach Tungnath Temple.
Another option is to undertake a trek from Kedarnath to Tungnath, which allows pilgrims to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region while also experiencing the spiritual journey on foot. The trekking route passes through dense forests, meadows, and small villages, providing an opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, there are also options for cycling or motorbiking from Kedarnath to Tungnath.
This mode of transportation allows pilgrims to cover the distance at their own pace while enjoying the thrill of riding through challenging terrains and scenic landscapes.
Trekking options for reaching Tungnath Temple from Kedarnath
Trekking is one of the most popular and rewarding ways to reach Tungnath Temple from Kedarnath. The trekking route offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and allows pilgrims to connect with nature while on their spiritual journey. There are several trekking options available for pilgrims with varying levels of difficulty and duration.
One of the most common trekking routes is from Kedarnath to Tungnath via Chopta. This trek covers a distance of approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) and takes around 2-3 days to complete. The route passes through dense forests, meadows, and small villages, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Pilgrims can also witness diverse flora and fauna along the way, making it a truly enriching experience. Another trekking option is from Gaurikund to Tungnath via Chopta. Gaurikund is the starting point for the trek to Kedarnath and offers an alternative route for pilgrims who wish to visit Tungnath as well.
This trek covers a distance of approximately 40 kilometers (24.8 miles) and takes around 3-4 days to complete. The route passes through scenic landscapes and offers opportunities for camping amidst nature’s beauty. For those seeking a more challenging trekking experience, there is also an option to undertake the Chandrashila trek, which includes a visit to Tungnath Temple.
This trek covers a distance of approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from Chopta to Tungnath and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks from Chandrashila summit.
Accommodation options near Tungnath Temple
Chopta: The Base Camp for Tungnath
Chopta serves as the ideal base camp for visiting Tungnath Temple, offering a range of accommodation facilities to suit different needs and budgets. Pilgrims can choose from budget-friendly guesthouses with basic amenities or opt for more comfortable homestays that provide a glimpse into the local way of life.
Camping near Tungnath Temple
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, camping near Tungnath Temple is a great option. Several campsites are available in Chopta, providing tents and camping facilities amidst picturesque surroundings. Camping allows pilgrims to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty while experiencing a sense of tranquility and solitude.
Accommodation Options in Nearby Towns
In addition to Chopta, nearby towns such as Ukhimath and Rudraprayag also offer a range of accommodation options for pilgrims visiting Tungnath Temple. These towns provide comfortable lodging facilities with modern amenities such as hot water, electricity, and internet connectivity, making them an attractive option for those seeking a more comfortable stay.
Tips for visiting Tungnath Temple from Kedarnath
Visiting Tungnath Temple from Kedarnath requires careful planning and preparation due to the high altitude and challenging terrain. Here are some tips for pilgrims visiting Tungnath from Kedarnath: 1. Acclimatize: Due to the high altitude of both Kedarnath and Tungnath, it is important for pilgrims to acclimatize themselves before undertaking any physical activity such as trekking or climbing stairs at the temples.
2. Pack essentials: Pilgrims should pack essential items such as warm clothing, sturdy footwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, first-aid kit, water bottle, and snacks for their visit to Tungnath. 3.
Stay hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated at high altitudes to prevent altitude sickness. Pilgrims should carry an adequate supply of water or hydration fluids during their visit. 4.
Respect local customs: Pilgrims should respect local customs and traditions while visiting Tungnath Temple and adhere to any dress code or behavior guidelines. 5. Seek guidance: Pilgrims should seek guidance from local tour operators or guides for trekking routes, weather conditions, and any other relevant information before visiting Tungnath from Kedarnath.
6. Plan for weather: The weather in the Himalayan region can be unpredictable, so pilgrims should be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions and carry appropriate gear such as raincoats or umbrellas. By following these tips and being mindful of their surroundings, pilgrims can have a safe and fulfilling experience while visiting Tungnath Temple from Kedarnath.
If you are planning a visit to the Tungnath temple, you may also be interested in exploring the nearby Kedarnath temple. The distance between the two temples is approximately 3.5 kilometers and can be covered by trekking. For more information on places to visit near Kedarnath, you can check out this article for some helpful insights.
FAQs
What is the distance between Tungnath temple and Kedarnath?
The distance between Tungnath temple and Kedarnath is approximately 16 kilometers.
How can I travel from Kedarnath to Tungnath temple?
One can travel from Kedarnath to Tungnath temple by road or by trekking. There are also options for hiring a local taxi or taking a shared jeep.
How long does it take to travel from Kedarnath to Tungnath temple?
The travel time from Kedarnath to Tungnath temple can vary depending on the mode of transportation. By road, it can take around 1-2 hours, while trekking can take around 5-6 hours.
Are there any accommodations near Tungnath temple?
There are limited accommodations near Tungnath temple, including guesthouses and small hotels. It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
What is the best time to visit Tungnath temple from Kedarnath?
The best time to visit Tungnath temple from Kedarnath is during the summer months of May to June and the autumn months of September to October. The weather is pleasant and the trekking conditions are favorable during these times.