Tungnath Yatra Guide: Route, Stay, Darshan, and Tips

Category: Yatra Guide | Updated: September 2025

The Tungnath Yatra is a sacred journey to the world’s highest Shiva temple, located at an altitude of 3,680 meters in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Tungnath is also one of the Panch Kedar temples, making it an important pilgrimage for devotees and trekkers alike. This guide covers registration, route details, accommodation, darshan timings, and essential travel tips.

How to Register for Tungnath Yatra

• Registration for Char Dham and Panch Kedar Yatras is usually required. Visit the official Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra portal for details.
• Pilgrims must carry a valid ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, Voter ID, etc.).
• You can register online or at Yatra counters in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other major towns.

How to Reach Tungnath

• By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 220 km away. From there, take a taxi or bus to Chopta.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, 205 km from Chopta.
• By Road: Chopta, the base point for the Tungnath trek, is well connected by road from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Rudraprayag.

Trek & Route Options

• Chopta → Tungnath: A 3.5 km trek from Chopta through rhododendron forests and scenic meadows. The trail is stone-paved and considered moderate.
• Tungnath → Chandrashila Peak: Many devotees extend their trek another 1.5 km to Chandrashila Peak (4,000 m) for panoramic Himalayan views.
• Best Time for Trek: May–June and September–October. Avoid monsoon due to landslides and slippery trails.

Where to Stay

• Chopta Base Camp: GMVN guest houses, budget hotels, homestays, and campsites are available.
• On Route: Small tea stalls and resting points provide snacks and shelter.
• Near Tungnath Temple: Limited dharamshalas and tents are available for pilgrims. Overnight stay is usually recommended at Chopta.

Darshan Timings & Tips

• The Tungnath Temple opens in May (Akshaya Tritiya) and closes in October/November (Diwali) due to heavy snowfall.
• Carry warm clothes, trekking shoes, raincoat, water bottle, and basic medicines.
• Start your trek early in the morning for clear views and safe return before dark.
• Respect the sanctity of the temple – maintain silence and cleanliness.
• Elderly devotees can hire ponies from Chopta if unable to trek.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How difficult is the Tungnath trek?
It’s a short trek (3.5 km) but involves steep sections. Moderate fitness is recommended.

2. Can I visit Tungnath in winter?
The temple remains closed in winter. The idol of Lord Shiva is shifted to Mukkumath village, where worship continues.

3. What is the best time to visit Tungnath?
The best time is May–June (spring/summer) and September–October (autumn), when weather is clear and comfortable.

👉 For latest updates, visit the official Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra portal or contact local travel operators.