Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
Tungnath Temple 2026: Guide to the Highest Shiva Temple
Highlights
- Highest Shiva temple in the world at 3,680 meters
- Part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
- Chance to spot the Himalayan Monal
- Steeped in mythology and the legend of the "Third Kedar"
- Breathtaking 360° Himalayan view from Chandrashila Summit
Tungnath Chandrashila Trek — Overview
Tungnath Temple is not just a place of worship—it is a marvel of human endurance and spiritual devotion. Holding the title of the highest Shiva temple in the world, it sits at a staggering altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) on the Chandranath Parvat. The region is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife…
Tungnath Chandrashila Trek — Complete Guide
Our mission has always been to ensure that no trekker steps into the Himalayas without the right perspective. A trek is not just a checklist of summits; it is a serious commitment to the outdoors. Having the right information is what separates a reckless climb from a soulful journey.
This section serves as your definitive manual for the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. We have distilled years of mountain experience and real-time feedback into this guide to give you a clear, honest picture of the trail.
We provide this depth of information because we want you to be more than just a visitor—we want you to be a prepared, responsible trekker who respects the mountains as much as we do.
Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Chopta Base Camp
- Journey: 212 km
Difficulty: Moderate — Suitable for fit beginners.
You will cover a total distance over 3 trekking days, gaining significant altitude. The terrain includes steep ascents and rocky paths. Weather can change rapidly at altitude — rain, snow, and mist are common. Our Trek Leaders monitor conditions and make safety decisions accordingly.
Altitude: You will reach 12,073 ft. At altitudes above 10,000 ft, the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness are real. Fitness helps, but even experienced trekkers can be affected.
Best months to visit:
The base camp is accessible by road from Rishikesh or Haridwar. Nearest railway station is Haridwar; nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. We arrange pickup from Rishikesh.
- Layered woollen clothing (thermal base + mid-layer + rain jacket)
- Trekking poles
- Good quality trekking shoes (waterproof)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Personal first aid kit and any prescription medicine
- Water bottle (2L minimum)
- Light snacks (nuts, dry fruits, energy bars)
Start training 6 weeks before the trek. Focus on:
- Cardio — 45 minutes of jogging/cycling, 5 days a week
- Stair climbing — builds leg and lung capacity
- Squats and lunges — strengthen knees for steep descents
- Weekend hikes — practice with a loaded backpack
Fitness Benchmark: Complete 5 km in under 40 minutes before the trek.
Your safety is our priority. We bring oxygen cylinders, high altitude medical kits, and certified Trek Leaders who are trained as Wilderness First Responders.
Complete Package from Haridwar/rishikesh To Haridwar/rishikesh, Accommodation: Tents/Guest House on Twin Sharing, Meals: Nutritious meals during the trek, Transport: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Chopta, Sari, and return, Certified high-altitude guide and support staff, Permits: Trekking permits, Safety equipment & first aid.
Personal gear and expenses, Meals during transit to and from Haridwar/Rishikesh, Comprehensive travel insurance (mandatory), Optional Services: Backpack Offloading charge ₹400, Single Tents occupancy on request, extra cost.
Detailed maps and GPS coordinates will be provided in your pre-trek briefing document.
Yes, with proper fitness preparation. The difficulty is rated Moderate.
- Himalayan Ibex offers both online and offline booking options.
- Payment: We require a 25% advance payment for booking treks. The remaining amount is to be paid in cash at the basecamp before the trek starts.
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