TUNGNATH
Tungnath is the highest Shiva
temple in the world and is one of the five and the highest Panch Kedar temples
located in the mountain ranges of Uttarakhand. Located at an altitude of 3,680 m
(12,073 ft), and just below the peak of Chandrashila, The temple is believed to
be 1000 years old and is the second in the pecking
order of the Panch Kedars.It has a rich legend linked to the Pandavas, heroes of
theMahabharata epic.
Other than being a religious destination, Tungnath is also a well known trekking
destination. The 4 km trek starts from Chopta (2,926 m), the nearest place on
the NH 58. Chopta is 63 km from Rudraprayag towards Karnaprayag and is reached
from Rishikesh via Devprayag, Srinagar and Rudraprayag.
The route to Tungnath is only 4 km from Chopta that can be covered in
approximately 3–4 hours (depending on one's physical ability). Trek is a
moderate (and sometimes steep) climb, the path is stone paved with benches
provided en route at intervals to rest and enjoy the beautiful views of the
Chowkhamba, Nanda Devi, Neelkanth and Kedarnath peaks. We undertook this
trekking to the shrine in summer months (end April or early May to October) and
the temple was snow bound and unapproachable. During this period even Chopta,
the nearest road head remains deserted. Ahead to Tungnath is the Chandrashila
peak. It offers 270 degree views of the Himalayan range and is located 2 KMs
further upwards from Tungnath temple.
The place is extremely rich in Flora and Fauna and you can find lots of species
of birds around Chopta and Tungnath region.
SPIRITUAL PLACES | ||||