What is tungnath?
Tungnath: A Sacred Himalayan Abode
Tungnath , nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, is the highest Shiva temple in the world and one of the Panch Kedar temples. It is situated at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 ft) and forms a significant part of the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Hindu%20pilgrimage">Hindu pilgrimage</a> circuit.
Key Aspects:
- Location: High up in the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Garhwal%20Himalayas">Garhwal Himalayas</a> of Uttarakhand.
- Deity: Dedicated to Lord Shiva. Specifically, it's believed that Shiva's arms are worshipped here.
- Panch Kedar: A part of the sacred <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Panch%20Kedar">Panch Kedar</a> pilgrimage, which includes Kedarnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar.
- Trekking: The trek to Tungnath is relatively easy and a popular destination for <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/trekking">trekking</a> enthusiasts. It is a 3 km trek from Chopta.
- Chopta: Tungnath is often accessed via <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Chopta">Chopta</a>, a picturesque base camp known as the "Mini Switzerland" of Uttarakhand.
- Chandrashila Peak: A further 1 km trek from Tungnath takes you to <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Chandrashila%20Peak">Chandrashila Peak</a>, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks.
- Architecture: The temple architecture is simple, resembling other temples in the Kedar valley.
- Closing Season: The temple remains closed during the winter months (November to April) due to heavy snowfall. The idol of Lord Shiva is then brought down to Mukhimath village for worship.