Tungnath Trekking Guide: Everything You Need to Know for a Successful Journey

Tungnath, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is one of the most renowned trekking and pilgrimage destinations in the country. Part of the Chopta Tungnath Trek, this high-altitude region in the Garhwal Himalayas is famous for its spiritual significance, stunning views of the Himalayan range, and thrilling trekking routes. Whether you’re looking to explore nature, undertake an adventurous trek, or seek a spiritual retreat, Tungnath offers the perfect experience.

In this travel guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about Tungnath, including the best time to visit, the top activities to do, trekking routes, and the various travel packages available for every kind of traveler.

Why Tungnath?

The Himalayas with its rich flora and fauna is a treat to the sore eyes. Even though I’ve been to treks before, this was one of the longest treks especially through a section of a wildlife sanctuary.

From the Rhododendron forests on the route that gives a crimson glow to the rustic lands to the pure white snow that crumbles with your touch, it is one unforgettable experience. It is also an easy climb, and hence an ideal trekking spot along with family and friends.

Introduction to Tungnath and Chopta

Tungnath is part of the Chopta region, often referred to as “Mini Switzerland” due to its lush meadows, towering mountains, and serene atmosphere. At an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), Tungnath Temple is one of the highest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, making it an important pilgrimage site for devotees. The trek to Tungnath is not just a spiritual journey, but also an adventure, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Meru.

The Chopta Tungnath Trek is a popular route among trekkers and nature lovers. The trek offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas, dense forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude lakes. Chandrashila Peak, situated at 4,000 meters, is the highest point of this trek and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Himalayan range.

Trekking in Chopta – An Overview

The Chopta Tungnath Trek is often considered one of the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand. Starting from Chopta, this trek passes through dense oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The trek can be customized according to the difficulty level, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

Best Trekking Packages

If you’re planning a trek to Chopta, the Best Trekking Packages cater to a range of options. Whether you’re looking for a Chopta Trekking Tour Package that includes transportation, accommodation, and a guide, or prefer a more rustic experience like Chopta Camping Packages, there’s something for everyone. Packages often include a visit to the Tungnath Temple Trek and Chandrashila Summit Trek, making it a comprehensive experience of trekking, spirituality, and adventure.

Top Trekking Routes in Tungnath

Tungnath Temple Trek

The Tungnath Temple Trek is a moderate trek, which takes you to one of the highest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located at an altitude of 3,680 meters, this trek is a pilgrimage for many who visit to seek blessings and experience the natural beauty. The trek can be done by travelers of all fitness levels, and the panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks are a major highlight.

Starting from Chopta, the Tungnath Temple is about a 3.5 km trek that takes approximately 2–3 hours to complete. Once you reach the temple, you can explore the surroundings and meditate, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere at the highest point of your trek.

Chandrashila Summit Trek

A 1 km trek from Tungnath Temple leads you to Chandrashila Peak, the highest point of the trek at 4,000 meters. The Chandrashila Trek is considered more challenging due to the steep ascent, but it offers the best views of the Himalayan range. From here, trekkers can enjoy 360-degree views of some of the most beautiful peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.

Deoriatal Trek

Another popular route in the Chopta region is the Deoriatal Trek, which is slightly easier and offers stunning views of the Himalayan range and the Deoriatal Lake. The Deoriatal Camping Packages often combine this trek with the Chopta Tungnath Trek, allowing you to enjoy camping by the lake and explore the beautiful surrounding meadows.

Tungnath Trek Itinerary

A typical Chopta Trek Itinerary for the Chopta Tungnath Trek spans 4–5 days, depending on the pace of the trek and the number of stops along the way. Here’s a sample itinerary for those looking to make the most of their trip:

Day 1: Arrival in Chopta

Arrive at Chopta either via car or jeep from Haridwar (200 km away). The journey offers scenic views of the hills, and you can check into your campsite or hotel upon arrival. You can take a short walk around Chopta in the evening and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Day 2: Chopta to Tungnath Temple

The second day is dedicated to trekking from Chopta to Tungnath Temple (3.5 km). This is a moderate trek, and the day will be spent exploring the temple and enjoying the views. You can camp at the temple or descend back to Chopta for the night.

Day 3: Tungnath to Chandrashila Peak

On the third day, trek from Tungnath to Chandrashila Peak (1 km) for a panoramic view of the Himalayan range. You can spend some time here before heading back to Chopta. This trek takes a total of 4–5 hours.

Day 4: Optional Deoriatal Trek or Return

If time permits, you can extend your trip by visiting Deoriatal Lake (3-4 hours trek from Chopta). You can either camp overnight at Deoriatal or head back to Chopta. From Chopta, you can take a car or jeep back to Haridwar.

Best Time to Visit Chopta

The best time to visit Chopta Tungnath Trek depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for:

Spring and Summer (March to June)

Spring and early summer are ideal for trekking as the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. This is also the time when the meadows are lush green, and the views are clear. The best time for Adventure Tours in Chopta is during this season, especially for those who want to enjoy the treks at a comfortable temperature.

Monsoon (July to September)

While the monsoon season brings lush greenery, it also makes the trekking trails slippery and difficult. Therefore, it’s best to avoid trekking during this time.

Autumn (October to November)

Autumn is one of the best times for the Chopta Tungnath Trek as the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The Himalayan Treks are at their best during this time, offering clear views of the mountain ranges.

Winter (December to February)

If you’re looking for a snow-covered adventure, the Chopta Winter Trek offers the chance to experience the beauty of snow-capped peaks and challenging winter conditions. Temperatures can drop as low as -15°C, so be prepared for snow trekking and the beauty of a pristine winter landscape.

Packages for Every Type of Traveler

Depending on your preferences, there are a variety of Chopta Tour Package that cater to different types of travelers:

Budget Chopta Packages

For those traveling on a budget, Budget Chopta Packages offer affordable trekking options. These packages usually include basic accommodation, transportation, and a guide, ensuring a hassle-free trekking experience.

Chopta Group Tours

If you’re planning to trek with a group of friends or family, Chopta Group Tours offer a great way to explore Chopta together. These tours are often more cost-effective and provide the opportunity to meet other trekkers.

Corporate Chopta Packages

For corporate groups looking for team-building experiences, Corporate Chopta Packages are an ideal choice. These packages often include activities like camping, trekking, and team challenges, making them perfect for off-site corporate retreats.

Chopta Camping Packages

Chopta Camping Packages allow you to experience the wilderness of Chopta up close. Whether you’re camping near Tungnath Temple or Deoriatal Lake, these packages provide a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Chopta.

Chopta Trekking Packages from Delhi

For those traveling from Delhi, there are several Chopta Trekking Packages from Delhi that include transportation, accommodation, and trekking arrangements, making the journey hassle-free.

Adventure and Activities in Chopta

Chopta is a treasure trove of activities for adventure lovers. Some of the activities you can enjoy here include:

Birdwatching: Chopta is home to various species of birds, including the Monal and the Musk Deer, making it a great destination for bird watchers.

Trekking: Apart from the Tungnath Temple Trek and Chandrashila Summit Trek, there are several other trails to explore in the Chopta region.

Snow Trekking and Skiing: In the winter months, snow trekking and snow skiing become popular activities in Chopta.

Rock Climbing and Rappelling: For thrill-seekers, rock climbing and rappelling are exciting ways to engage with the rugged terrain.

 Trekking Itinerary

 Day 1 involves driving to the base point Sari. It takes less than half a day, and this is where convenient accommodation will be arranged for the night.

On day 2, the trek to the Deoria Tal can be started, and it takes just about 40 minutes to reach. Deoria Tal is the common camping site, not just for the adventurous trekkers but also for those who are looking for a peaceful get-away in Uttarakhand. I wasn’t even able to realize the day passing by while I sat by the lake watching the undisturbed reflection of the Chaukhamba mountains from here.

From here, reaching Chopta takes a longer duration due to the increasing steepness and altitude. Through the uneven terrains of the pine forests, it takes about 8-10 hours to reach the destination. By the end of the third day, the idea itself of getting to see the snow-capped peak the next day got me restless. I kept counting the hours and hoping the day starts sooner so I could pick up my rucksack and trek to the spectacle.

The 4th day marks a 5-hour trek to the moderately easy gradient of ascent. The 5-hour duration is the common span for regular trekkers, it can vary for a beginner. At an elevation of 12000 feet, this is one of the most important flag points in Uttarakhand. And, trekking in Uttarakhand is incomplete without covering all

Tungnath witnesses a good share of a crowd including tourists and localities because of the Tungnath temple. The highest Shiva temple in the world, this humble abode of worship is an exceptional meditational spot. Radiating with an energy like no other, it’s not the usual feel of sitting cross-legged on a lush meadow. Instead, it’s the chilling breeze, that often gets harsh but still carries a sense of serenity within it. Just sitting here on the rocks in the silence of the snowy mountains, is refreshing.

One of the other reasons that make this peak even more special is the view from up there. Unlike the usual 360° view of the valley in the form of minuscule specks, you could see all the major mountain peaks of Western and Eastern Uttarakhand like they’re up close!

Best Time to Visit

Each season shows an entirely different shade of Tungnath, so it’s mostly up to you regarding when you’d love to trek up to the summit. I’d highly suggest a visit during the months of summer when the temperature goes up to a solid 16 degrees. Not too cold and not too warm.

In May the main deity here, Lord Tungnath is taken from Mukumath to the temple, and it’s a tradition that still lives up to its glory. Since one of the main attractions here is the Tungnath temple, this point of the month becomes even more favorable. This is also the time when it’s easier than usual to trek up to Chandrashila.

For the risk-takers, monsoons are a challenging trek. The trekking instructor who had assisted the group including me kept narrating about how it’s the most dangerous yet the most rewarding deed to trek during a good downpour. Trekking during winters is a surreal experience with the fresh snow paving your way to the top.

The only inconvenience that may occur during winters is the search for the perfect stay. Since this is the time the tourists flock in to watch the majestic snow-covered Chandrashila, almost all accommodations run out of rooms. The early bird gets the worm.

What to not miss out around Tungnath

Part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, the trek up to Tunganath would be a paradise to nature lovers. Tungnath is the perfect spot for spectating high-altitude Himalayan birds. These exotic species are hard to spot around, and quite a catch once you’re able to identify them.

From the Koklass pheasants to the Himalayan monal and Nesting pied thrush. He named it all and told us about interesting facts about each. Yet another interesting bird we encountered en route was the Snow Patridge, which is usually only spotted during winters.

The highest shrine of Lord Shiva is undoubtedly one of the main reasons why a lot of them visit the peak. Perched on the ridges of Chandranath Parvat, the temple divides the two glistening streams of Alaknanda and Mandakini.

At a height of above 12073 feet from sea level, this temple is third in a row of the Panch Kedar (five Kedar) – Kedarnath, Rudranath, Tungnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Kalpeshwar. It dates back to more than 1000 years and has several historical and mythological references to it.

One of the infamous legends revolving around the formation of the temple is associated with the Pandavas and the Kauravas. After the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas were seeking salvation for having killed their cousins and committing the sins of Brahmanahatya and Gothrahatya.

Lord Shiva who was disappointed by the war, disguised himself away from the Pandavas, like a bull in the Garhwali region. The long search conducted by the brothers, lead them to destroy the disguise and dismantling bits of it at five different places.

This is how the formation of the five Shiva temples in the snow-clad mountains is believed to have occurred. Tungnath, out of the five, is said to have risen from the arms of the bull disguise. The numerous versions of this story go around like verses of the same poem.

Unlike other temples I have been to, Tungnath looked grand in its simplicity. Except for the month when Lord Shiva is brought to the temple. There isn’t much festivity or adornments to the temple. A minimal form of Garhwali architecture with the shrines of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Nandi, and a few other gods. From here, the Chandrashila peak is merely at an altitude of 500 ft.

Things to keep in mind

• There aren’t many halts en route to Tungnath, so make sure you have all essentials packed with you.
• Avoid trekking at night. Even though it’s a safe route, there are chances of taking the wrong direction within the forests.
• Carry plenty of water along and make sure you remain hydrated while ascending.
• Do not carry heavy snacks for the trek as you might feel sick as the altitude increases. Carry light food such as biscuits, nuts, nutritional bars, or glucose.
• Do not compromise on proper trekking gear.
• Wear warm and light clothes and carry a raincoat just in case there’s unexpected rainfall.
• Waterproof shoes are the best for trekking up the snow sieved mountains.
• If you’re going solo, make sure you have a first aid kit along with you. In groups, the trekking instructors usually have such essentials packed along with them. You could carry along a personal healthcare kit as well.
• There aren’t many ATM’s or charging points after Chopta. So keep a considerable amount of cash and a power bank in hand.
• Photography is allowed around Tungnath, but not within the temple premises.

Faq’s For Chopta Trekking Guide

Is trek to Tungnath difficult?‘

How difficult is Chopta Tungnath Trek? It is a beginner-level trek hence difficulty level is easy to moderate. When does it snow in Chopta Tungnath? From December to March, you will find heavy snow in Chopta and this is a good time for snow adventures.

How much time is required for Tungnath trek?

 The Chopta Tungnath Trek takes around 4 to 5 days to complete. 3. Difficulty level: It’s a moderate difficulty trek, suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers.

Is oxygen less in Tungnath?

This is high altitude region where oxygen is low and night can be very cold.

Which is the toughest trek of Shiva?

It is a 32 km (from one side) trek from base village Jaon to the Shrikhand top which is approximately 18,570 ft above the sea level.

Is Tungnath higher than Kedarnath?

These five temples are Kedarnath which lies at an altitude of 3583m, Tungnath which lies at a distance of 3680m, Rudranath which lies at an altitude of 2286m, Madhyamaheshwar which lies at a distance of 3490m and Kalpeshwar which lies at an elevation of 2200m. These temple are visited in this order of importance only.

What is the cost of Tungnath trek?

Starting at just ₹4900 per person from Haridwar and ₹6500 per person from Delhi, this package is designed for both beginner and seasoned trekkers. The journey lasts for 5 days and 4 nights from Delhi, or 3 days and 2 nights if you choose to start from Haridwar.

Which is the best month for Tungnath trek?

April to November is the best time to visit Tungnath. During summers the town is in full bloom, and the air is fresh and crisp. The peaks are covered with a lush green cover of pine deodar and rhododendrons. During monsoon, the place becomes prone to landslides, so it is recommended to be avoided.

What is the cost of pony ride in Tungnath?

There are also horse and pony rides available from Chopta to Tungnath temple at a cost of ₹700 to ₹800.

How many kilometers is Tungnath Trek?

The trek begins at Chopta, a small village located at an altitude of 2680 metres. The trek to Tungnath is about 4 km long and takes 3-4 hours to complete. The trail is easy to navigate and takes trekkers through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests.

Which is higher Amarnath or Tungnath?

Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, rests at 3,680 meters in Uttarakhand.

Is Tungnath safe for kids?

Chopta, well known as the Mini Switzerland of India and Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple and one among the Panch Kedarnath temples. It is one of the best place to visit with your family and specially with kids as trekking from Chopta to tungnath is of 3.5 kms.

At what altitude is there no oxygen?

An elevation of about 20,000 feet above sea level is the maximum height at which sufficient oxygen exists in the air to sustain us. By comparison, the summit of Mount Everest (the Earth’s highest mountain) lies at 29,141 feet.

Which trek is difficult, Kedarnath or Tungnath?

Perched at an elevation of 3,583 meters, the Kedarnath Temple is a religious beacon and a vacation spot of huge magnitude for Hindu devotees. The experience of Kedarnath includes a difficult trek through gorgeous landscapes, the place pilgrims navigate rugged terrains and steep ascents.

Is Chopta and Tungnath same?

Chopta village is the base for the two most popular treks, The Chandrashila and Chopta Tungnath trek. Tungnath, one of the major pilgrimages in Uttarakhand, is also the highest temple of Lord Shiva in the world. Furthermore, Chandrashila is the highest point of Chopta, with an altitude of 12,100 feet (3690 m).

Can we go to Tungnath Temple by car?

Tungnath can be approached from Kund-Gopeshwar road up to Chopta about 212 km from Rishikesh via the Chamoli-Gopeshwar-Chopta route. Buses and taxi service are easily available along the route. From Chopta, you have to take the short 3 km trek route to reach the Tungnath temple.

Is Amarnath higher than Tungnath?

We were at Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in India. ‘Tung matlab uncha, nath maney Shiv. Amarnath is higher, but it’s a cave, not a temple’, explained Baba. His actual name was Mahant Naga Baba Mukesh Giri, but at Tungnath, he was simply Kidik Bam.