Tungnath Mahadev Temple
Chopta: The Highest Shiva Shrine in the World (12,073 ft)
Highest of the Panch Kedar
Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
3.5 KM from Chopta
Perched atop the Chandrashila ridge, **Tungnath Temple** is a thousand-year-old architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is the highest Shiva temple on Earth and one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for devotees. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, and Trishul, Tungnath offers a spiritual experience that blends deep devotion with breathtaking Himalayan wilderness.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Presiding Deity | Lord Shiva (Worshipped as the arms of the Lord) |
| Architecture | Ancient North Indian Nagara Style |
| Mythological Origin | Built by the Pandavas after the Mahabharata War |
| Current Status | Open for 2026 Pilgrimage Season |
The Legend of the Panch Kedar
Following the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva for the sins of fratricide. Shiva, wishing to avoid them, took the form of a bull and hid in Guptkashi. When discovered, he dived into the ground and reappeared in five different parts. His arms (Bahu) emerged at Tungnath, making it a critical site in the *Panch Kedar* circuit.
Architecture and High-Altitude Setting
Constructed of dark black granite, the temple follows the classic **Nagara style**. The structure is characterized by a tall stone spire (*Shikhara*) topped with an ornate wooden roof. Despite its extreme exposure to Himalayan weather, the stone masonry has remained intact for over a millennium.
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The Chandrashila Summit: Located 1.5 km above the temple, this peak offers a 360-degree view of the Greater Himalayas. -
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Nandi Sculpture: A stone Nandi sits outside the temple entrance, facing the sanctum against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Location: Chopta to Tungnath Trek
Logistics & Stays
Base Camp: Chopta (The Switzerland of India).
Connectivity: 200 KM from Rishikesh via Ukhimath.
Stay: Eco-camps and cottages in Chopta are available for 2026 bookings.
Contact & Support
Official Body: BKTC (Badri-Kedar Temple Committee).
Emergency: Rudraprayag District Administration (+91-1364-233300).
Dress: Heavy woolens required even in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the oxygen level at Tungnath Temple?
The oxygen level is roughly 30% lower than at sea level. Visitors are advised to trek slowly and carry portable oxygen cylinders if they have respiratory issues.
Can we see Mount Everest from Tungnath/Chandrashila?
While you cannot see Everest, you get arguably