Tungnath Chandrashila Trek 2026 A Journey to the World's Highest Shiva Temple & Beyond
The Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is one of the most rewarding short Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand, offering a rare combination of spiritual pilgrimage, breathtaking summit views, and beginner-friendly trails. Starting from the scenic meadows of Chopta—often called the “Mini Switzerland of India”—this trek takes you to Tungnath Temple (12,073 ft), the highest Shiva temple in the world, and further to the majestic Chandrashila Summit (13,123 ft) for a panoramic 360-degree view of the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayas.
Whether you are a first-time trekker seeking your maiden Himalayan adventure, a devotee on the sacred Panch Kedar circuit, or a photographer chasing the golden sunrise over Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba, the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek delivers an experience that stays etched in your memory forever.
🎯 Quick Fact: From Chandrashila Top, you can see peaks from both the Gangotri range (Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, Mandani) and the Kumaon range (Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti)—a view unmatched by most other Indian treks.
Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Location | Rudraprayag District, Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand |
| Starting Point | Chopta (8,500 ft / 2,680 m) |
| Highest Point | Chandrashila Summit (13,123 ft / 4,000 m) |
| Tungnath Temple Altitude | 12,073 ft (3,680 m) |
| Trek Distance | ~13 km round trip (Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Chopta) |
| Trek Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | 3 Days / 2 Nights (from Rishikesh/Dehradun) |
| Best Time | March–June & September–November |
| Winter Trek | December–February (Snow Trek) |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun |
| Nearest Railway Station | Haridwar / Rishikesh |
| Base Camp | Chopta / Baniyakund |
Why the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is Special
Tungnath Temple – The Highest Shiva Temple on Earth
Tungnath is not just a trekking destination; it is one of the five sacred Panch Kedar shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. At 3,680 meters, it holds the record as the highest Shiva temple in the world. According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas built this temple after the Mahabharata war while seeking forgiveness from Lord Shiva, who had taken the form of a bull. His arms (bahus) are believed to have appeared at this spot. The temple was later rediscovered by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
🔗 Related: Planning a shorter version? Check out our Chopta Tungnath Trek package.
Chandrashila Summit – Sunrise Above the Clouds
The final 1.5 km ascent from Tungnath to Chandrashila Peak is steep but incredibly rewarding. At 4,000 meters, the summit offers one of the finest 360-degree panoramic views in the Indian Himalayas. On a clear morning, witness the sun rising directly behind Mt. Nanda Devi (7,817 m)—India’s second-highest peak—while the first golden rays illuminate Chaukhamba, Trishul, Kedar Dome, Bandarpoonch, and Neelkanth.
Legend says Lord Rama meditated at Chandrashila after defeating Ravana, adding deep spiritual significance to this summit.
Rhododendron Forests & Alpine Meadows
The trail winds through dense forests of oak, pine, and deodar, bursting with red and pink rhododendron flowers during spring (March–April). The meadows of Chopta and Baniyakund are rolling green bugyals that justify the region’s nickname—“Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.”
Himalayan Wildlife & Birdwatching
Keep your eyes peeled for the Himalayan Monal—Uttarakhand’s state bird and one of the most colorful pheasants in the world. The region also falls near the Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary, home to rare Himalayan fauna.
Perfect Beginner Himalayan Trek
Unlike technical high-altitude expeditions, the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek features a well-defined stone-paved trail with gradual ascents. This makes it ideal for beginners, families with children, solo travelers, and senior citizens with basic fitness. It is often rated among the best easy treks in Uttarakhand that still offer high-altitude thrills.
🔗 Related: Compare packages from the best travel agencies for Chopta Tungnath Trek.
Best Time to Visit Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
Spring (March to May) – The Rhododendron Season
- Temperature: 10°C to 20°C
- Highlights: Blooming rhododendron forests, pleasant weather, clear mountain views
- Best For: Beginners, photographers, nature lovers
- Snow: Patches visible on higher slopes
Summer (May to June) – Escape the Plains Heat
- Temperature: 15°C to 25°C
- Highlights: Lush green meadows, fully accessible trails, comfortable camping
- Best For: Families, camping enthusiasts, first-time trekkers
Autumn (September to November) – Crystal Clear Views
- Temperature: 8°C to 18°C
- Highlights:Post-monsoon clarity offers the best visibility of the year; dry trails
- Best For: Photographers, peak chasers, serious trekkers
- Pro Tip: This is arguably the best season for Chandrashila summit sunrise photography
Winter (December to February) – The Snow Trek Experience
- Temperature: -5°C to 10°C
- Highlights: Fresh snow blankets the entire trail; magical winter landscapes
- Note: Tungnath Temple remains closed, but the trek route stays open till the temple area
- Best For: Snow lovers, adventure seekers, winter trekking enthusiasts
- Difficulty: Moderate due to snow and ice; proper trekking gear essential
🔗 Related: Looking for the complete experience? Explore our Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Package.
Tungnath Temple Opening Dates 2026
For pilgrims planning the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek in 2026, here are the important temple dates:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 22 April 2026 (Wednesday) |
| Expected Closing | Early November 2026 (Tentative) |
| Winter Closure | November to April |
The temple closes during heavy snowfall months. However, trekkers can still attempt the Chandrashila winter trek during closure as the trail remains accessible.
Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Altitude Profile
Understanding the altitude progression is crucial for preventing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS):
| Location | Altitude (ft) | Altitude (m) | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dehradun | 2,100 ft | 640 m | — |
| Chopta (Base) | 8,790 ft | 2,680 m | +6,690 ft |
| Tungnath Temple | 12,073 ft | 3,680 m | +3,283 ft |
| Chandrashila Summit | 13,123 ft | 4,000 m | +1,050 ft |
Total Elevation Gain: ~11,000 ft from Dehradun to Chandrashila
Altitude Sickness Prevention Tips
- Walk at a slow, steady pace—do not rush
- Stay hydrated—drink 3–4 liters of water daily
- Avoid alcohol and smoking 48 hours before and during the trek
- Eat light, carbohydrate-rich meals
- Inform your trek leader immediately if you experience headache, dizziness, or nausea
- Spending a night at Chopta before the summit day helps your body acclimatize
What to Pack for Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
Essential Trekking Gear
- Backpack (50–60L) with rain cover + Daypack (20L) for summit
- Trekking shoes with ankle support, good grip, and waterproofing
- 2 pairs quick-dry trek pants + 3–4 full-sleeve dry-fit t-shirts
- Thermal innerwear (top & bottom)
- Fleece jacket / Down jacket (depending on season)
- Waterproof rain jacket & poncho
- Woolen cap, sun cap, balaclava
- Warm waterproof gloves
- 3–4 pairs woolen socks + cotton socks
- Sunglasses (UV protection) + Sunscreen (SPF 50+) + lip balm
Important Accessories
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottle (1L) + hydration bag
- Trekking pole (highly recommended for Chandrashila ascent)
- Power bank (batteries drain faster in cold)
- Personal medical kit + ORS packets
- Original ID proof + 2 photocopies
Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Package Cost
| Expense | Approximate Cost (Per Person) |
|---|---|
| Transport (Dehradun ↔ Chopta) | ₹1,200 – ₹2,500 |
| Accommodation (Camps/Guesthouse) | ₹800 – ₹2,500/night |
| Meals & Refreshments | ₹500 – ₹1,000/day |
| Local Transport & Misc | ₹500 – ₹1,000 |
| Total Estimated Budget | ₹3,000 – ₹6,500 |
Why Book with Trektonic Adventures?
At Trektonic Adventures, our Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Package starts from just ₹5,999 per person, including:
✅ Pick-up & drop from Rishikesh/Dehradun
✅ All transportation in comfortable vehicles
✅ 2 nights accommodation in Swiss Camps / Deluxe Camps
✅ Nutritious vegetarian meals (Breakfast, Dinner, Packed Lunch)
✅ Experienced certified trek leaders & local guides
✅ First aid kit & safety equipment
✅ All necessary permits
✅ Group photography assistance
🔗 Book Now:Check availability and book your Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Package here.
Places to Visit Near Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
Deoriatal Lake (2,438 m)
A serene alpine lake just 2.5 km from Sari village. On a still morning, it perfectly reflects the mighty Chaukhamba peaks. According to legend, the Pandavas were questioned by a Yaksha here. Ideal for camping and photography.
Ukhimath (30 km from Chopta)
The winter seat of Lord Kedarnath. Visit the ancient Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple and experience the spiritual culture of the region.
Kartik Swami Temple (3,050 m)
A 3 km trek through pine forests leads to this temple dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, offering peaceful surroundings and wide mountain views.
H3: Baniyakund
A beautiful meadow and sunset viewpoint near Chopta, perfect for relaxing and soaking in Himalayan tranquillity.
Why Choose Trektonic Adventures for Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?
| Feature | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Expert Local Guides | Certified trek leaders with deep knowledge of the Garhwal Himalayas |
| Small Group Sizes | Personalized attention and better safety |
| Quality Accommodation | Swiss Camps with comfortable bedding and clean washrooms |
| Hygienic Meals | Fresh vegetarian food prepared with mountain hygiene standards |
| Safety First | First aid, emergency protocols, and oxygen support |
| Responsible Tourism | Leave No Trace principles; support for local communities |
| Best Price Guarantee | Packages starting at ₹5,999 with no hidden costs |
| All-Inclusive | Transport, stay, meals, permits, and guide fees included |
Highlights of Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
- 🌸 Rhododendron Forests – Dense red & pink forests during spring
- 🏕️ Chopta Meadows – Known as "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand"
- ⛰️ Tungnath Temple – Ancient stone temple, highest Shiva shrine globally
- 🌄 Chandrashila Sunrise – Golden sunrise over 360° Himalayan panorama
- 🦅 Himalayan Monal – Spot the state bird of Uttarakhand
- 🏔️ Snow-Capped Peaks – Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedar Dome, Bandarpoonch
