History & Legend
Origin: Ancient Vedic Era
Legends
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During the Mahabharata era, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva to atone for the sins of fratricide. Shiva, avoiding them, took the form of a bull. When Bhima caught the bull, it disappeared into the ground.
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The arms (bahu) of the bull reappeared here at Tungnath.
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It is also believed that Ravana performed penance here to please Lord Shiva.
Adi Shankaracharya's Role: The temple was discovered and the worship tradition was established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
Spiritual Significance
Tungnath is worshiped as the "Arms" (Bahu) of Lord Shiva. It is the third (Tritiya) Kedar in the Panch Kedar circuit.
- Meditating here is believed to grant inner peace and liberation.
- The nearby Chandrashila peak is where Lord Rama is said to have meditated after defeating Ravana.
Opening Dates 2026
Opening Date
May 2026 (Tentative)
Closing Date
November 2026 (Tentative)
Weather & Best Time
Weather Insights
Best Season: Best: Apr-Jun, Sep-Nov
Temperature: Summer: 10-20°C | Winter: -5 to 5°C
Crowd Levels
Peak Rush
May-June (Yatra Peak) & Weekends
Peaceful Time
September-October
How to Reach & The Trek
By Road
- Rishikesh -> Rudraprayag -> Ukhimath -> Chopta
Scenic drive along the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. (210 km)
- Dehradun -> Mussoorie -> Tehri -> Mala -> Chopta
Alternative route via Tehri Dam. (240 km)
The Trek
Recommended 2-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Chopta
- Reach Chopta from Rishikesh (7-8 hrs)
- Check into campsite
- Acclimatize
- Sunset at meadow
Trek to Summit
- Start trek at 4:00 AM
- Reach Tungnath (6:00 AM)
- Summit Chandrashila (7:00 AM)
- Descend & Depart
Panch Kedar
The Panch Kedar are five holy shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Garhwal Himalayas. They are Kedarnath (Hump), Tungnath (Arms), Rudranath (Face), Madhyamaheshwar (Navel/Belly), and Kalpeshwar (Hair). Completing this circuit is believed to absolve one of all sins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is the Tungnath trek difficult?
No, it is considered the easiest of the Panch Kedar treks. The 3.5 km path is well-paved and suitable for beginners and families.
Q. Can we visit Tungnath in winter?
The temple closes in winter (Nov-Apr), but the trek usually remains open up to a certain point depending on snow. The idol is moved to Makkumath.
Q. How long does the trek take?
It typically takes 2-3 hours to climb up and 1.5 hours to descend.
Q. Is there mobile network?
Network is decent at Chopta (Jio/Airtel) but becomes patchy or unavailable as you trek up.
Q. Do I need a permit?
Usually, no special permit is required for Tungnath, but checking at the forest check post in Chopta is recommended.
"This guide is curated using inputs from local Chopta guides and verified against 2025-26 Temple Committee updates."
Verified: Feb 2026