Introduction:
Located at an altitude of 12,160 feet (3706 meters) above sea level, Tungnath temple is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world. Located very close to Kedarnath Temple( one of the most famous jyotirlingas in India) in Uttarakhand is among the panch kedar in India. It is believed that an arm or bull appeared at this place after lord Shiva's incarnation bull disappeared from Kedarnath and spit into five parts which appeared at different places and are now well known as Panch Kedar. It is also the most famous as it is the easiest and most accessible among all the panch Kedar. Most of the pilgrims coming to Kedarnath Yatra visit this place to take the blessing of lord shiva and witness the beauty of the world's highest Shiva temple. Nowadays it's trending among youngsters and adventure enthusiasts as a trekking destination and bird-watching spots. It's lush green Bugyals allure nature lovers.
Tungnath Temple and Its Mystique
As per holy scriptures and folklore, it is believed that this temple was built by Pandavas and was later reconstructed by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th Century. There are many stories attached to its construction but the most famous one is that when Pandavas started searching for lord Shiva to atone for their sin of killing their near and dear one on the battle of Kurukshetra. First, they visited Kasi, but lord shiva hid himself in a place well known as Guptkashi. Later when Pandavas reached Guptkashi he again moved to Kedar Village on top of the Himalayan peak. But when Pandavas reached Kedar, he disguised them as a bull. But Bhima identified him and hold him by his Hump, then that bull divided into five parts which appeared at five different places. These five places are now known as Panch Kedar. One of those panch Kedar is Tungnath where Hand appeared. Then Pandavas worshipped all the five parts of lord Shiva and constructed a temple around it. Later on Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century in Nagara Style of Architecture.
Location of Tungnath Temple:-
Tungnath Temple is located at an altitude of 12,160 feet above sea level in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand state in India. It is just 31 km away from Kedarnath temple ( one of the most famous jyotirlingas in India). The literal meaning of Tungnath is lord of peaks and it forms the most famous valleys of India i.e. Mandakini and Alaknanda.
Another Tourist spot that can be visited around Tungnath Temple:-
Located in the lap of the Himalayas, Tungnath temple is a famous tourist spot in India equally popular among devotees, adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers and bird watchers. But not only Tungnath temple but this place is blessed with numerous other tourist destinations which can be included in your bucket list when you plan to visit this place. Here is a list of a few most beautiful and famous places near Tungnath temple.
Chopta:- Well known as the "Mini Switzerland of India", Chopta a picturesque hamlet located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand is the starting point of Tungnath trek. In addition to being a pilgrimage point, Chopta is also famous for in unbeatable beauty and famous tourist destination since the British era. Surrounded by deodar and pine forest this place is an amazing tourist destination one should check. The best time to visit this place is in the winter season.
Chandrashila:- Chandrashila or "Moon Rock" is the summit peak of Chandranath Parvat is located just 1 km ahead of Tungnath Temple and is most famous for its panoramic 360-degree view of snow-capped mighty Himalayas. There are many legends associated with this peak. As per the most famous legend, it is believed that lord Rama meditated at this point after killing Ravana. As per another legend, it is believed that the moon had sent time here in penance.
Kedarnath:- One among the 12 jyotirlingas in India is Kedarnath Temple. Those who visit Tungnah are to visit Kedarnath temple also. In most of the cases company providing the Kedarnath tour package includes a visit to Chopta, Tungnat and Chandrashila in the same package. Located at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is equally famous among devotees and adventure lovers. This temple is located in Kedar village on the bank of the Mandakini River and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains from all three sides. The panoramic view from Kedarnath temple and divine power attracts millions of travellers every year. Kedarnath yatra costs around Rs 9500 per person for a complete trip from Haridwar to Haridwar. You can include a visit to Tungnath Temple, Dhari Devi TempleF, Triyuginarayan Temple and Chopta in your Kedarnath tour package.
Badrinath:- One among the Chota Char Dham yatra, Do Dham yatra and main Char Dham yatra, Badrinath temple is known as the temple of Satyuga. This temple is dedicated to lord Vishnu and is just 147 km away from Tungnath temple. It is one of the most divine temples, tucked with amazing natural beauty. You can also add this temple to your bucket list if you are planning to visit Badrinath temple this season.
Dhari Devi Temple:- Located in the middle of the Alaknanda river between Srinagar and Rudraprayag, Dhari Devi Temple or "Goddessess of Streams" also famous as the protector of Char Dham temples in Uttarakhand. The beautiful architecture and amazing location of this temple make it worth visiting and seeking the blessing of goddess Dhari. This temple is on the way to Kedarnath and Badrinath temples and is a must-to-do temple for those who are coming to Char Dham yatra Do Dham yatra or Kedarnath yatra.
Mana Village:- Do you know the first village of India is also very close to this Tungnath temple? It is just 144 km away from Tungnath temple, this isolated hamlet is very famous among tourists. This village is just 26 km away from the Indian border. This village is culturally connected to Badrinath temple and Buddhist culture can also be experienced in this region.