Tungnath – the kingdom of Lord Shiva

Tungnath, at 12,073 above mean sea level, is the world's highest built temple dedicated to Shiva, discounting perhaps the Amarnath Cave shrine near Srinagar, Kashmir, which is situated at an altitude of 12,756 feet. Tungnath is second in importance among the five mountain shrines collectively known as the Panch Kedar. The temple opens for worship after winter snows melt in June and remains open until late October when snowfall cuts off access to the temple. At this time the deity is moved ceremoniously to the Ukhimath, thousands of feet below. Besides its majestic location against a backdrop of cliffs, peaks and snow-clad mountains, Tungnath is also popular with trekkers, who make it a point to witness the sunrise from Chandrashila, a nearby peak at 13,123 feet. To reach Tungnath from Delhi, drive or take an overnight train/ bus to Rishikesh (236 km) and drive/ take a bus to Ukhimath (170 km/ 6 hours). Halt overnight and catch the morning bus for Chopta (17 km/ 1 hour), a roadhead at 9,500 feet. Tungnath is a 4-km trek from here. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun (258 km).

Text and photos by Yahoo India Travel Editor BIJOY VENUGOPAL

Gallery View:Tungnath – the kingdom of Lord Shiva
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  1. Tungnath Temple Uttarakhand
  2. Tungnath Temple
  3. Tungnath Temple
  4. Ukhimath
  5. Ukhimath
  6. Ukhimath Waterfall
  7. The road to Gopeshwar
  8. Shack in Chopta
  9. Bhotia dog in Chopta
  10. The trail to Tungnath
  11. Pathway on the mountain
  12. Deodar trees
  13. Temple bells, Tungnath
  14. Tea shop on the trail
  15. Milestone, Tungnath
  16. Never run out of gas
  17. Main street, Tungnath
  18. Ruined huts, Tungnath
  19. Shops near Tungnath
  20. Tungnath - Priest
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