Each year, as winter approaches, the sacred valleys of Chopta echo with the divine chants of Tungnath Doli Yatra, a farewell filled with devotion and tradition. The 2025 closing of the Tungnath Temple, the world’s highest Shiva shrine, is expected to take place in late October. This grand ritual marks the seasonal journey of Lord Tungnath’s idol from the snow‑bound temple to Makkumath, where winter worship continues until the next summer.
Pilgrims and travelers come from all over India to witness this emotional event. The idol is carried in a beautifully decorated doli (palanquin), accompanied by priests, local devotees, music, and the sound of conch shells. The air is filled with prayers, bells, and the scent of incense. The experience is not just religious—it is also a glimpse into the deep culture of Uttarakhand’s mountain villages. For many travelers, joining the yatra as part of a chopta tungnath trek package becomes a journey of both faith and discovery.
Those planning a visit can easily choose a chopta tour package from Delhi or book customized chopta tour packages that include stays, meals, and local guidance. Along the way, visitors can also enjoy the famous chandrashila summit trek, known for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayan peaks. The combination of spiritual devotion and natural beauty makes this event one of the highlights of any Chopta Tour Package.
The Tungnath Temple trek during this time is a perfect blend of peace, culture, and Himalayan scenery. Whether you attend for devotion or adventure, the chopta tungnath tour and Doli Yatra 2025 promise moments that stay in your heart long after the journey ends.
Significance of Tungnath Temple in Hindu Mythology
Tungnath Temple, believed to be over a thousand years old, holds a sacred place in Hindu mythology as part of the Panch Kedar. According to the legends, this temple marks the spot where Lord Shiva’s arms appeared after he transformed into a bull to avoid the Pandavas. The temple’s height of 12,073 ft makes it the highest Shiva temple in the world, and it glows with divine spiritual energy.
Pilgrims and trekkers visiting through the chopta tungnath trek package find peace amid snow-covered peaks and green meadows. Tungnath is not only a site of worship but also a symbol of the deep connection between nature and devotion. The surrounding region, known as Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand, forms part of various chopta tour packages that combine adventure, serenity, and spirituality.
Why It’s Special:
- Belongs to the sacred Panch Kedar temples.
- Offers panoramic Himalayan views during the chandrashila summit trek.
- A key stop in the chopta tungnath tour that blends religion with trekking adventure.
For devotees arriving from the plains, the chopta tour package from Delhi provides an ideal route to experience this heavenly shrine in peace and comfort before winter closure.
When Does the Tungnath Doli Yatra Take Place in 2025?
The Tungnath Doli Yatra 2025, marking the closing ceremony of the world’s highest Shiva temple, is expected to take place around early November 2025. The official closing date of the Tungnath Temple is scheduled for 6 November 2025, after which the idol of Lord Tungnath is carried down in the Doli Yatra to Makkumath village for winter worship. This event is accompanied by religious rituals and a festive procession as the temple gates are closed for the winter season.
The temple remains open for pilgrims from 2 May 2025 until this closing day, with the Doli Yatra symbolizing the spiritual farewell and seasonal shift of worship from the high Himalayan shrine to a lower-altitude village in the cold months.
For travelers interested in witnessing this sacred yatra, planning a visit between late October and early November is ideal. Many choose chopta tungnath trek packages or chopta tour packages from Delhi during this period to combine the spiritual experience with scenic Himalayan trekking, including the famous chandrashila summit trek and the tungnath temple trek.
In summary:
- Tungnath Temple closing date: 6 November 2025
- Doli Yatra date: Around early November 2025 (immediately after the closing)
- Temple reopens: 2 May 2025 (starting new pilgrimage season)
This closing ceremony is a key event that blends faith, culture, and natural beauty, making it a unique highlight of any chopta trekking tour package.
The Spiritual Meaning Behind the Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony of Tungnath Temple holds deep spiritual meaning tied to Hindu beliefs and natural cycles. Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, remains open only for six months each year—from early May to early November. During this time, devotees come to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings through challenging yet rewarding trekking, such as the chopta tungnath trek and chandrashila summit trek.
The closing marks the end of the pilgrimage season as winter approaches the high Himalayas. It is believed that Lord Shiva temporarily leaves the temple’s high-altitude abode to reside in a lower village called Makkumath, where the idol is worshipped throughout the winter. This seasonal movement symbolizes nature’s cycle of rest and renewal, reflecting the balance between physical and spiritual realms.
The ceremony begins with priests performing Vedic rituals and chanting mantras to invoke divine protection and blessings. The idol of Lord Tungnath is carefully placed in a decorated palanquin (Doli) and carried down the mountain amid devotional hymns, folk songs, and traditional dances performed by local villagers. This heartfelt event fosters a sense of community and shared faith between pilgrims and locals alike.
For pilgrims and travelers, witnessing the Doli Yatra during a chopta tour package is a profound spiritual experience. It highlights themes of surrender, devotion, and the eternal connection between humans and the divine. The closing ceremony is not just a formal event but a celebration of faith’s continuity, despite the temple doors being physically closed until the next spring season.
In essence, the Tungnath closing ceremony honors the harmony of nature, the spiritual significance of Lord Shiva’s presence, and the enduring devotion of those who undertake the tungnath temple trek and related pilgrimages each year.
How the Sacred Doli Journey Begins from Tungnath
After the final aarti, the Tungnath Doli Yatra begins its journey towards Makkumath, which is the winter seat of Lord Tungnath. The decorated Doli is placed on the shoulders of priests and devotees, who walk down chanting prayers. The route is vibrant with local participation, traditional music, and offerings from villagers.
Trekkers often join the path as they descend through the chopta tungnath trek route, blending faith with adventure. Local guides and organizers offering chopta tour packages arrange these cultural experiences for visitors.
Doli Yatra Path:
- Starts from Tungnath Temple
- Passes through Chopta and Duggalbitta
- Ends at Makkumath Village for winter worship
The Doli’s descent is an emotional sight where believers walk in unity, holding the belief that divine energy travels with them. Many who come for the chopta tungnath tour describe this journey as soul-touching.
Route of the Tungnath Doli Yatra: From Temple to Makkumath
The route from Tungnath to Makkumath follows serene Himalayan trails lined with alpine forests and rhododendron trees. The path, though steep in sections, carries both devotion and scenic beauty. The total distance is roughly 12–14 km, and it can be covered comfortably in a day’s walk by devotees and porters.
This divine trail is a highlight for trekkers taking the chopta chandrashila trek or chopta tungnath trek package, offering cultural insight along with natural charm. Makkumath, located at a lower altitude, becomes the temporary seat of worship for Lord Tungnath during winter months.
Route Details:
- Tungnath Temple → Chopta → Dugalbitta → Makkumath
- Ideal for travelers arriving through chopta tour package from Delhi
- Offers opportunities to experience Garhwali songs and local rituals
Walking this route during the yatra connects travelers to the deep traditions of Uttarakhand, making it one of the most memorable parts of any chopta trekking tour package.
Rituals and Aartis Performed During the Closing Ceremony
During the Tungnath Temple closing ceremony, the entire temple complex fills with divine energy. Priests dressed in traditional attire perform special pujas and aartis throughout the day. The idol of Lord Tungnath is bathed in holy water, decorated with fresh flowers, and seated in a beautifully carved palanquin for the Doli Yatra. Bells ring continuously as devotees chant “Om Namah Shivaya,” creating an unforgettable spiritual atmosphere in the calm Himalayas.
Travelers booking a chopta tour package or chopta tungnath trek package during October can experience this special ritual closely. The air is filled with devotion and fragrance from lamps, flowers, and incense sticks. Tour organizers offering chopta trekking tour packages usually include these temple visits and ceremonies in their itineraries.
Highlights for Visitors:
- Evening Maha Aarti performed before moving the idol.
- Ritual sealing of the temple doors with sacred threads.
- Cultural songs sung by villagers to honor Lord Shiva.
For those completing the chandrashila summit trek, witnessing this ancient ritual adds deeper meaning to the journey, blending physical exploration with devotion.
Devotee Participation and Local Cultural Traditions
The Tungnath Doli Yatra is not just a temple event; it’s a heartfelt community festival. Locals from nearby villages, including Chopta and Makkumath, join the yatra carrying offerings, lamps, and conch shells. Many wear traditional Garhwali clothes and perform folk dances along the route. Tourists joining through the chopta tour package from Delhi often find themselves welcomed warmly by locals to experience the rich culture of Uttarakhand.
Each step of the chopta tungnath tour during this ceremony reflects unity and celebration of faith. Trekkers and devotees walk together chanting hymns and singing bhajans dedicated to Lord Tungnath. The journey shows how spiritual emotion connects people beyond religion and region.
Cultural Highlights:
- Garhwali folk songs fill the valley during the Doli procession.
- Local women offer prasad and dance joyfully in devotion.
- The Doli rests at designated halts where villagers perform prayers.
Joining this annual tradition through a chopta tungnath trek package allows visitors to be part of a living heritage that has continued for centuries.
Legends Connected to Lord Tungnath and Panch Kedar
According to sacred texts, the Tungnath Temple represents the arms of Lord Shiva from the Panch Kedar legend. It is said that after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Shiva for the battle’s destruction. Shiva, avoiding them, took the form of a bull and disappeared into the earth at different places. Each spot where his body parts reappeared became one of the five Panch Kedar temples — Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.
This timeless story inspires thousands to take the tungnath temple trek as a journey of inner peace and surrender. Many pilgrims club their visit with the chandrashila summit trek to seek blessings and witness stunning views of Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks.
Key Mythological Insights:
- Tungnath stands for Shiva’s bahu (arms).
- Associated with Pandavas’ penance and divine forgiveness.
- Integral part of the chopta tungnath tour and Panch Kedar route.
For those coming through chopta tour packages, learning these legends transforms the trip into both a cultural and spiritual exploration.
Travel Guide: How to Witness the Doli Yatra in 2025
To witness the Tungnath Doli Yatra 2025, travelers should plan their trip between October 20–30, depending on the announced date of temple closure. The nearest accessible town is Chopta, well connected by road from Delhi, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. Many explorers choose the chopta tour package from Delhi for convenience and guided arrangements.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Delhi → Rishikesh → Ukhimath → Chopta (approx. 450 km)
- By Train: Nearest railhead: Haridwar or Rishikesh.
- By Trek: Tungnath is a moderate 3.5 km walk from Chopta; the chopta tungnath trek suits both beginners and spiritual travelers.
Accommodation is easily available in Chopta through chopta tour packages including camping, lodges, and homestays. Combining the event with the chandrashila summit trek adds scenic charm after the ceremony.
Traveler’s Tip:
Keep warm clothes and start early morning to witness the entire procession peacefully. Joining an organized chopta trekking tour package ensures safety, comfort, and uninterrupted participation in the spiritual ritual.
Post-Ceremony Significance and Reopening in Summer 2026
Once the Tungnath Temple doors close and the Doli reaches Makkumath, Lord Shiva’s worship continues there for the next six months. Devotees believe that divine energy stays alive, simply relocated during winter. The higher temple area of Chopta becomes covered in snow, turning into a peaceful landscape perfect for short winter walks and photo trips under various chopta tour packages.
In May 2026, the Doli will return from Makkumath to Tungnath in a joyous reopening ceremony marking Lord Shiva’s arrival back to His Himalayan abode. This event attracts both pilgrims and trekkers who join seasonal packages like chopta chandrashila trek from Delhi or chopta tungnath tour.
What to Experience Next Season:
- Summer treks under clear skies with wildflowers blooming.
- Opportunities for chandrashila summit trek once snow melts.
- Worship at re‑opened Tungnath shrine under guided Chopta Trekking Tour Packages.
The circle of faith that begins with the Doli Yatra closes beautifully with the reopening, reminding every visitor that the spirit of devotion at Tungnath continues unbroken through every season.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When is the Tungnath Doli Yatra 2025 scheduled?
The Tungnath Doli Yatra closing ceremony is expected in late October 2025, usually around the first week of November, before heavy winter snowfall closes the temple for six months.
What is the significance of the Doli Yatra at Tungnath Temple?
The Doli Yatra marks the seasonal farewell of the idol of Lord Tungnath as it is carried down to Makkumath village to be worshipped during winter when the temple is closed.
How can I witness the Doli Yatra?
Travelers can book a chopta tungnath trek package or chopta tour package from Delhi, which often includes timings and guided participation in the procession from Tungnath to Makkumath.
What is the trekking distance from Chopta to Tungnath Temple?
The trek is about 3.5 kilometers, considered moderate, and passes through beautiful meadows and rhododendron forests. It’s part of most chopta tungnath tour itineraries.
When does Tungnath Temple reopen in 2026?
The temple typically reopens in early May, around May 2, during spring, when the Doli returns from Makkumath to Tungnath.
Are there accommodation facilities near Tungnath during the Doli Yatra?
Yes, Chopta offers guesthouses, campsites, and lodges suitable for visitors booking chopta tour packages, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Is the Doli Yatra suitable for novice trekkers?
Yes, the approach trek from Chopta is moderate and well-marked, making the tungnath temple trek accessible for beginners too.
What are some cultural activities during the Doli Yatra?
The Doli Yatra features local Garhwali folk songs, prayers, and traditional dances by villagers along the route, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.
Can the Doli Yatra be combined with the Chandrashila Summit Trek?
Yes, many choose combined packages like chopta chandrashila trek and chopta tungnath trek package to enjoy spiritual and scenic Himalayan experiences.
What are the best months to visit Tungnath Temple and attend the Doli Yatra?
The recommended visiting months are September to early November for the Doli Yatra and May to June for summer trekking.
Is there any entry fee for visiting Tungnath Temple?
No entry fee is required; pilgrims can visit during temple open months as part of chopta trekking tour package arrangements.
How can I reach Chopta from Delhi to begin the Tungnath trek?
Travelers typically reach Rishikesh by train or flight, then proceed by road to Chopta via Haridwar and Ukhimath. Many chopta tour packages from Delhi facilitate this route with comfortable transport.