Chopta Tungnath Trek

Tungnath Temple is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world, which is also known for its scenic and adventurous trek. Every year, numerous trekkers and Shiva devotees undertake the Chopta to Tungnath trek, which is filled with breathtaking views, natural beauty and religious significance.
 

The distance of Tungnath Mandir from Rishikesh is around 205 km, which also includes a trekking distance of 3.5 km. The base camp of the Tungnath Trek and the last motorable point is Chopta village. In this Tungnath Chopta Trek Guide, you will get to know, like its route info, fitness level, packing list, challenges, safety tips, crowd level, and real experience.
 

Tungnath Trek: A quick itinerary

Journey Begins From: Rishikesh

The Journey to the popular Chopta to Tungnath Trek typically starts from Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World. However, it may vary depending on your starting location. Rishikesh is well connected to major cities by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, which is 16 km from Rishikesh, and you can easily access it by road.
 

The Tungnath Trek starting point is Chopta, which is 202 km from Rishikesh. The normal time to reach Chopta from Rishikesh is around 7 to 8 hours. However, the time may vary depending on the traffic and weather conditions.
 

How to reach Chopta for the Tungnath Trek?

Well, Chopta can be reached by bus, shared taxi, bike, or by hiring a cab. Direct buses from Rishikesh Bus Stand are available up to Ukhimath, from where you can take a shared taxi up to Chopta. Alternatively, you can travel to Sari Village, located around 14 km from Ukhimath and from Sari Village, Chopta is just 22 km. Many trekkers stay here to adapt to the conditions before starting the trek the next day.
 

Chopta Tungnath Trek: Key details

Trail to Tungnath Mahadev Temple

The trail to Tung nath Mandir, the highest Shiva Temple in the world, begins from Chopta. The entry fee for the Chopta Tungnath trek is Rs 200/- per person, which is charged by the forest department.
 

The Tungnath Trek trail is known for its stunning and captivating landscape views. If you are doing this trek from February to April, the path is surrounded by blooming Rhododendrons, while during the post-monsoon season, the lush green meadows and floating clouds create a magical setting.
 

Tungnath Trek Distance and Difficulty

The Tungnath Temple Trek distance from Chopta is around 3.5 km. The trek is categorised as moderate and is suitable for beginners. Since the Tungnath Temple height above sea level is around 12,000 feet, mental and physical fitness is necessary.
 

Trek Duration

Chopta Tungnath trek typically takes 3 to 4 hours, which may vary depending on the individual fitness level and weather conditions.
 

Refreshment point

Along the trail, you will find some small food stalls, where you can rest and regain your breath by taking a sip of tea and some light snacks to recharge your body and mind.
 

The Summit: Reaching Tungnath

After climbing a relentless trail of 3.5 km with multiple halts, you finally reached the sacred Tungnath Temple. Upon reaching the point, a deep sense of spiritual calmness and peace can be felt over you. All the pain and fatigue will disappear after seeking the blessings of Tungnath Mahadev, the third Panch Kedar. After completing the prayer, you can admire the surrounding nature, snow-clad Himalayan peaks, which feel nothing less than heaven.
 

Tungnath to Chandrashila Trek

If you have enough strength and stamina, you can consider extending this Tungnath trek to Chandrashila. The distance of the Tungnath Chandrashila trek is around 2 km, which is more steeper, and definitely tests your endurance.
 

Back to Base Camp

It's up to you whether you choose to stay overnight in Chopta or the Sari village base camp. The next morning, take a taxi or bus from Ukhimath back to Rishikesh, cherishing the memorable moment of the trek as you scroll through the beautiful Tungnath photos in your gallery.
 

Challenges

• While trekking to Tungnath, visitors may encounter several challenges:-
  • Weather: The Weather conditions at Tungnath change frequently, which may hinder your trek
  • Rain: It becomes difficult to trek during rain as the path doesn't offer any shelter, except for a few tea shops.
  • Snowfall: During snowfall, the temperature drops significantly, and it becomes difficult to navigate.

Crowd

Being a popular trekking destination, the trail sees a huge crowd. Chopta, the base camp of the Tungnath trek, becomes overcrowded, particularly during the summer season (the ideal season for trekking). During these peak times, it is hard to find parking and accommodation. Along the trail, you will encounter many people heading to or returning from the temple.
 

What to pack for the Tungnath trek?

• To enjoy the journey, you must keep some essential items in your backpack, like: -
  • Waterproof jackets.
  • Trekking Shoes (waterproof)
  • Woollen Socks.
  • Walking Stick.
  • Raincoat.
  • Waterproof backpack.
  • Rain cover for gadgets.
  • Power bank.
  • An extra pair of batteries.
  • Oxygen canister (if you feel uneasy at high altitudes)
  • Water Bottle.
  • Health Snacks.
  • Medical Kit.
  • Micro Spikes (snowfall)
  • Emergency light.
  • Whistle (for emergency)

Real Experience

During our Tungnath Trek, we faced some general challenges: -

All's Well That Ends Well: After reaching Tungnath, the third Kedar of the Panch Kedar, we forgot all the difficulties we faced during the journey. The panoramic view of the surroundings will blow your mind.
 

What is the best time to do the Tungnath Trek?

The best time to embark on the journey to Chopta Tungnath Trek is from April to June and from September to November.
 

Tungnath Trek Route Map

Many people usually ask one question! How to reach Tungnath? Visitors can reach Tungnath Mandir by taxi, bus or cabs by following the route map given below.
 

Dehradun (Haridwar) → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Tilwara → Agastmuni → Chandrapuri → Ukhimath → Sari Village → Chopta
 

Note: Distance up to Ukhimath can be travelled by direct bus or shared taxi from Rishikesh, Haridwar and Dehradun.

Note: From Ukhimath, you can take a shared taxi service to reach Chopta village.
 

Accommodation

You can book your stays either at Sari Village or Chopta, which is the starting point of the Tungnath trek. Both sites are equipped with a number of homestays, cottages, tents, resorts, guesthouses, etc. Accommodation can be booked online, subject to availability or by phone, usually with an advance payment.

Important Tips for Trekkers

• If you are travelling in a group, booking a cab is an ideal choice; otherwise, opt for a bus or shared taxi.
• Arrive early at the Rishikesh bus stand to secure a seat.
• Book your accommodation in advance, either at Sari village or Chopta.
• To adapt your body to the weather and altitude, it is advisable to stay overnight at Sari.
• Entry tickets can be purchased from the Forest Department Check post at Chopta.
• Always check the weather forecast before starting the trek.
• Avoid visiting during the monsoon season, as heavy rains cause landslides and roadblocks.
• Begin your trek early in the morning, to avoid heat and crowds.
• Carry essential items for the journey, especially personal medicines, toiletries, hand sanitiser, lip balm, and mosquito repellent.
• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen to protect your skin.
• Drink water during the trek to keep your body hydrated.
• Carry sufficient cash as the network in the area is limited, and ATMs are also unavailable.
• Mules are available for offloading luggage.
• The nearest fuel station is available at Ukhimath. Ensure you have enough fuel for the journey.

Nearby Attraction

• You can also visit some popular places near Tungnath Temple, which are: -
  • Chopta.
  • Baniya Kund.
  • Deoria Tal.
  • Rohini Bugyal.

How To Reach Tungnath

Tungnath Temple can be reached by visiting its base point, Chopta and then undertaking a trek of 3.5 km.

By Road: Chopta is around 202 km from Rishikesh and can be reached by road using a bus, shared taxi, cabs, or a bike. Buses and shared taxis are available from Rishikesh.
 

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Yog Nagari Rishikesh Railway Station, around 203 km from Chopta. From there, you can take a shared taxi (Mahindra Maxx, Tata Sumo, Bolero, etc), and buses from its nearby taxi and bus stand.
 

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, around 221 km from Chopta. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus or shared taxi to Rishikesh.
 

Helpline Number

In case of any emergency, trekkers must contact the Forest Department or dial 112.