Tungnath
Tungnath Temple is one of the highest Shiva temples globally and the highest among the Panch Kedar temples, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an altitude of 3,680 meters, it is steeped in legend, particularly its connection to the Pandavas of the Mahabharata epic who are said to have built it to atone for their sins.
Key Facts
- ›It is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world.
- ›It is the highest of the five Panch Kedar temples.
- ›The temple is believed to be 1000 years old.
- ›Legend links its construction to the Pandavas seeking to atone for sins committed during the Mahabharata war.
- ›The temple is closed for about six months during winter due to heavy snowfall.
- ›It is located just below the peak of Chandrashila.
Shiva
One of the Highest Shiva Temples In the World, Highest of the Panch Kedar Temples, Religious Pilgrimage Site, Associated With Legends of the Pandavas
Pandavas
Mandakini River, Alaknanda River
About Tungnath
Tungnath Temple
Tungnath Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its exceptional altitude and its status as the highest among the Panch Kedar temples. Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, it stands at an elevation of 3,680 meters (12,073 ft), nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape just below the Chandrashila peak. The literal meaning of Tungnath is 'Lord of the peaks,' a fitting description for its majestic setting.
Legend and Mythology
The temple is deeply entwined with the epic Mahabharata and the legendary Pandava brothers. According to folklore, after the devastating Kurukshetra War, the Pandavas sought to atone for their sins, including the killing of their cousins and Brahmins. They embarked on a pilgrimage to the Himalayas to seek Lord Shiva's blessings. It is believed that Shiva, initially displeased, transformed into a bull and hid in the Garhwal region. When the Pandavas, particularly Bhima, discovered him, the divine bull disappeared into the ground, reappearing in five distinct parts across the region: the hump at Kedarnath, the arms at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the navel at Madhyamaheshwar, and the hair at Kalpeshwar. The Pandavas subsequently built temples at these five locations to worship Shiva and were eventually freed from their sins. Legend also suggests that Lord Rama meditated near the Chandrashila peak close to Tungnath.
Architectural and Religious Significance
Constructed in the North-Indian Himalayan 'Katyuri' architectural style, Tungnath shares a similar appearance with the Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar temples. The temple is considered to be approximately 1000 years old. A unique aspect of Tungnath's worship tradition is that its priest is a local Brahmin from Makkumath village, unlike the other Kedar temples where priests are traditionally from South India, a practice initiated by Adi Shankara. During the harsh winter months, from November to March, the temple is closed due to heavy snowfall, and the symbolic image of Shiva along with the priests is moved to the Markandeshwar Temple in Makkumath village for continued worship.
Geography and Access
Tungnath is strategically situated at the ridge dividing the waters of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers. The temple itself lies about 2 km below the Chandrashila Peak, offering panoramic views of prominent Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Panch Chuli, and Kedarnath. The trek to Tungnath is a popular pilgrimage and trekking route, often undertaken as part of the Panch Kedar circuit. The shortest and most common access is via a 5 km trek from Chopta, a village accessible by road. The path is stone-paved and offers a steep but rewarding climb through scenic alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, making it a significant destination for both religious devotees and nature enthusiasts.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legend behind the Tungnath Temple?
According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas built the Panch Kedar temples, including Tungnath, to seek forgiveness for the sins of fratricide and killing Brahmins during the Mahabharata war. Lord Shiva, initially avoiding them, is believed to have reappeared in five parts, with the arms appearing at Tungnath.
Where is Tungnath Temple located?
Tungnath Temple is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, situated at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 ft) on the Mandakini and Alaknanda river valleys, just below the peak of Chandrashila.
What is the significance of Tungnath being one of the Panch Kedar temples?
As the highest of the Panch Kedar temples, Tungnath holds significant religious importance. The legend states that the Pandavas built these five temples to appease Lord Shiva and were subsequently freed from their sins.
Who are the priests at Tungnath Temple?
Unlike other Kedar temples where priests are from South India, the priest at Tungnath Temple is traditionally a local Brahmin from Makkumath village. The Maithani Brahmins of Makkumath Village are said to officiate as priests.
When is the best time to visit Tungnath Temple?
The best time to visit Tungnath Temple is from April to September. The temple remains closed for approximately six months during winter due to heavy snowfall, making it inaccessible.
What is the trekking route to Tungnath Temple?
The shortest trek to Tungnath begins from Chopta, which is the nearest place on NH 58 accessible by road. The 5 km (3.1 mi) trek from Chopta is a steep climb and can be covered in about 4-5 hours, offering scenic views.
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