Tungnath Trek
Duration
3D / 2N
Difficulty
Easy
Elevation
13,123 ft
Total trek
8 km
Base Camp
Chopta
Pickup
Riskhikesh
Overview
The Tungnath Trek is one of the most scenic and spiritually enriching treks in Uttarakhand, offering a perfect blend of Himalayan adventure and cultural significance. Located inside the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary in the Rudraprayag district, Tungnath is home to the world’s highest Shiva temple at 12,073 ft (3,680 m) and is one of the sacred Panch Kedar temples, attracting trekkers and pilgrims throughout the year.
The Tungnath Trek distance is approximately 16 km (round trip) and is usually completed in 2 to 3 days. The journey begins from Chopta, popularly known as the Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand, located at an altitude of 7,900 ft. The trail gradually ascends through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, expansive alpine meadows, and panoramic Himalayan landscapes before reaching Tungnath Temple and continuing further to the spectacular Chandrashila Summit at 13,123 ft (4,000 m).
The best time to do Tungnath Trek is from April to June, when the trail is covered in blooming rhododendrons and the weather offers excellent mountain visibility. Another ideal season is October to November, known for clear skies and golden Himalayan landscapes. For snow lovers, December to March transforms the route into a beautiful Tungnath snow trek, offering a more adventurous experience.
The Tungnath Trek difficulty level is considered Easy to Moderate, making it suitable for beginners, families, solo travellers, and first-time Himalayan trekkers. The short trekking distance, gradual ascent, and well-defined route make it one of the most accessible high-altitude treks in Uttarakhand.
With excellent road connectivity, Chopta is located around 190 km from Rishikesh and 220 km from Dehradun, making the Chopta Tungnath Trek one of the most popular weekend treks from Delhi and North India for travellers looking to experience both Himalayan beauty and the spiritual atmosphere of the ancient Tungnath Temple.
What to Expect
- Walk through dense rhododendron forests that burst into colour every April and May
- Visit the world's highest Shiva temple at 12,073 ft, one of the sacred Panch Kedar shrines
- Reach Chandrashila summit at 13,123 ft for a 360° view of Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, and Chaukhamba
- Trek through wide open alpine meadows with unobstructed Himalayan views
- Snow-covered trails from December to March for a true winter experience
- Spot monal pheasants and Himalayan wildlife inside the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
- One of the shortest high-altitude treks in Uttarakhand, perfect for a weekend getaway
Itinerary
Day 1: Rishikesh to Chopta
- Drive: 190 km
- Duration: 6-7 hrs
- Arrival Point: Chopta (7,900 ft)
- Your Tungnath Trek begins with an early morning departure from Rishikesh, driving through the scenic Garhwal Himalayas.
- Pass through beautiful mountain towns including Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath, enjoying river views, valleys, and traditional Himalayan landscapes along the route.
- Arrive at Chopta by afternoon, the base camp for the popular Chopta Tungnath Trek.
- Freshen up and spend time relaxing in the peaceful mountain surroundings.
- Acclimatise to the altitude while enjoying fresh mountain air and panoramic views before the main trekking day.
- End the day surrounded by the beauty and tranquillity of the Himalayas before an overnight stay at Chopta.
Day 2: Chopta to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Summit, back to Chopta
- Trek Distance: 8 km
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs
- Summit Altitude: 13,123 ft
- Begin the highlight of your Tungnath Trek itinerary with an early morning start from Chopta.
- Trek through beautiful trails covered with dense rhododendron forests, oak trees, and alpine meadows, making this one of the most scenic Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand.
- Complete the famous Chopta to Tungnath Trek while enjoying uninterrupted views of the surrounding peaks.
Reach Tungnath Temple (12,073 ft), known as the world’s highest Shiva temple and one of the sacred Panch Kedar shrines. - Spend some quiet moments at the temple and experience the spiritual atmosphere at high altitude.
- Continue with a short 20–30 minute climb to Chandrashila Summit (13,123 ft), the most rewarding viewpoint of the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek.
- Witness breathtaking 360° Himalayan views featuring Nanda Devi, Kedarnath Peak, Chaukhamba, Bandarpunch, and the Gangotri range.
- Descend back to Chopta by evening and relax after completing the memorable Tungnath Temple Trek experience.
Day 3: Chopta to Rishikesh
- Drive: 190 km
- Duration: 6-7 hrs
- Drop-off: Rishikesh
- Wake up to crisp mountain views and begin the return journey from Chopta after breakfast.
- Drive back through the scenic Garhwal region, passing through Ukhimath and Rudraprayag once again.
- Enjoy the final glimpses of the Himalayan valleys and rivers along the route.
- Reach Rishikesh by late afternoon with unforgettable memories of the Tungnath Trek, Chandrashila Summit, alpine meadows, and the spiritual experience of visiting the highest Shiva temple in the world.
Package Details
Included
- Transport (Rishikesh to Rishikesh)
- Acommodation in Alpine camps
- Sleeping bags & mats
- All meals during trek
- Trek leader & support staff
- Forest permit & entry fees
Excluded
- Personal trekking gear
- Meals during transit
- Porter or mule
- Any personal expenses
Photos
How to Reach
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Dehradun and offers regular flights from major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
By Train
Dehradun Railway Station is well connected to major cities across India through regular train services, making it a convenient option for trekkers traveling from different parts of the country.
By Car
Dehradun enjoys excellent road connectivity with Delhi and nearby cities. You can drive to Dehradun, hire a taxi, or travel by regular state-run and private buses. Frequent bus services operate between Delhi and Dehradun, making road travel one of the most convenient ways to reach the starting point of the Nag Tibba Trek.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Tungnath Trek?
The best time for Tungnath Trek is April to June for blooming rhododendron forests and clear Himalayan views, and October to November for crisp skies and golden landscapes. December to March brings heavy snowfall, making it a popular winter snow trek for those seeking a more adventurous experience.
How difficult is Tungnath Trek?
Tungnath Trek is graded Easy to Moderate. The trail is well-defined, the altitude gain is gradual, and the total trekking distance is short, making it suitable for beginners, families, and first-time trekkers. Basic fitness is all you need to complete this trek comfortably.
How long is the Tungnath Trek?
The Tungnath Trek distance is approximately 8 km from Chopta to the Chandrashila summit and back, typically completed in 5 to 6 hours. The full trip from Rishikesh is best done over 3 days and 2 nights including travel.
What is the height of Tungnath and Chandrashila?
Is Tungnath Trek open in winter?
How do I reach Chopta for Tungnath Trek?
What is the Tungnath Trek package price?
Our Tungnath Trek package starts at just Rs. 5,499 per person, making it one of the most affordable weekend trek experiences in Uttarakhand. The package covers accommodation, all meals, an experienced trek leader, forest permits, and transfers from Rishikesh and back, so you can enjoy the trek without worrying about logistics.
What should I pack for Tungnath Trek?
Can beginners do Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek?
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