Best Time to Visit Tungnath Temple – Full Travel Guide, Weather and Tips

Tungnath Temple, nestled high in the Himalayan ranges of Uttarakhand, is not just a religious site — it’s a spiritual destination, an adventure trek, and a serene escape rolled into one. Recognized as the world’s highest Shiva temple, Tungnath attracts pilgrims, trekkers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

But one of the most important aspects of planning a trip to this sacred site is knowing the best time to visit Tungnath Temple.

Best Time to Visit Tungnath Temple

In this complete travel guide, we’ll take you through:

When is the Best Time to Visit Tungnath Temple?

Best Months: April to November

The temple opens in April or early May (on Akshaya Tritiya) and closes around Diwali in October or early November.
The most pleasant and safest time to visit is May to June, and September to October.

🚫Temple remains closed from November to April due to heavy snowfall. The idol of Lord Shiva is shifted to Ukhimath for worship during this period.

Season-Wise Travel Guide to Tungnath Temple

Summer (April – June)

Weather: 10°C – 25°C
Why visit: Comfortable trek, blooming rhododendrons, open temple, ideal for families.
Experience: Best time for spiritual travelers and first-time trekkers.
What to carry: Light winterwear, trekking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen.

Monsoon (July – September)

Weather: 7°C – 18°C with rain
Why avoid: Landslides, slippery trekking trail, limited visibility.
Experience: Adventurous but risky. Not suitable for family trips.
What to carry: Raincoat, quick-dry clothes, waterproof trekking shoes.

Autumn (October – Early November)

Weather: 5°C – 15°C
Why visit: Clear skies, low crowd, post-monsoon freshness.
Experience: Tranquil trekking and peaceful Darshan. Temple closes post-Diwali.
What to carry: Warm jackets, gloves, woolen cap.

Winter (Mid-November – March)

Weather: -5°C to -15°C
Status: Temple closed due to snow.
Experience: Snow trekking possible till Chopta or Tungnath base. No Darshan at temple.
Alternative: Visit Ukhimath Temple (where deity is worshipped in winter).

Tungnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates (2025 – Tentative)

Opening Date: 3rd May 2025 (Akshaya Tritiya)
Closing Date: 26th October 2025 (After Diwali)

(Note: Dates may vary each year based on the lunar calendar.)

How to Reach Tungnath Temple

Nearest Railway Station:

Rishikesh (215 km) or Haridwar (225 km)

Nearest Airport:

Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (220 km)

By Road:

Reach Chopta via Rudraprayag or Ukhimath
Then start the 3.5 km trek from Chopta to Tungnath

Tungnath Trek Details

Starting Point: Chopta
Trek Distance: 3.5 km (one way)
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 2–3 hours
Trail Features: Paved stone path, steep inclines, panoramic views

Bonus Tip: Add an extra 1.5 km uphill trek to reach Chandrashila Peak (4,000+ m) for stunning sunrise views.

Where to Stay Near Tungnath

Chopta: Budget lodges, eco-huts, tents
Ukhimath: Homestays and guesthouses
Camping: Available with local permissions

Book in advance during May–June due to high footfall.

What to Pack for Tungnath Yatra

Item	Purpose
Warm clothes	Even in May, nights are chilly
Trekking shoes	Steep and rocky paths
Power bank & torch	Frequent power cuts
Personal meds	Basic altitude sickness relief
Raincoat/Umbrella	For unexpected showers
Energy bars/water	No shops after Chopta

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary for Tungnath Temple Trip

Day 1: Arrival in Chopta

Arrive from Rishikesh or Haridwar via Ukhimath
Check-in at Chopta
Acclimatize and enjoy sunset views

Day 2: Trek to Tungnath & Chandrashila

Early morning start (6–7 AM)
Trek to Tungnath Temple (3.5 km)
Optional trek to Chandrashila (1.5 km more)
Return to Chopta by evening
Dinner and rest

Day 3: Return Journey

Breakfast at Chopta
Travel back to Rishikesh/Haridwar/Dehradun

Other Attractions Near Tungnath

Place	Distance from Chopta	Description
Chandrashila	1.5 km from Tungnath	Himalayan summit, sunrise point
Deoria Tal	45 km	Alpine lake with Chaukhamba reflection
Ukhimath	29 km	Winter seat of Lord Tungnath
Madhyamaheshwar	80 km	Another Panch Kedar temple

Importance of Tungnath Temple

Third temple in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit
Said to be built by the Pandavas
Dedicated to Lord Shiva’s arms
Spiritual elevation + natural tranquility

Travel Tips to Keep in Mind

Start your trek early to avoid heat and crowd.
Carry enough water as there are no water points on the way.
Avoid loud music — respect the spiritual atmosphere.
Dispose of waste responsibly.
Stay for the evening aarti if possible — divine experience!

FAQs – Best Time to Visit Tungnath Temple

Is May a good time to visit Tungnath?

Yes, May is an excellent time to visit Tungnath. The temple reopens in early May, the weather is pleasant, and the trekking path is clear. It’s the beginning of the pilgrimage season and ideal for first-time visitors and spiritual travelers.

Can we visit Tungnath Temple in winter?

No, the temple is closed from November to April due to heavy snowfall. However, the deity is worshipped in Ukhimath during this time. Snow trekking is possible up to Chopta, but access to the temple is restricted in winter.

What is the best month for the Chandrashila trek?

May and October are the best months for the Chandrashila trek. The skies are clear, and the views of the Himalayan peaks are stunning. The trail is safe, weather is stable, and the experience is peaceful during these months.

Is the Tungnath trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Tungnath trek is beginner-friendly. It’s only 3.5 km from Chopta and takes around 2–3 hours. The trail is mostly paved but steep in some parts. With basic fitness and proper shoes, anyone can complete it comfortably.

Can senior citizens visit Tungnath Temple?

Yes, senior citizens can visit Tungnath if they are in good health. The trek is short but moderately steep. Resting along the way helps. During peak season, ponies or palanquins are sometimes available from Chopta to assist elderly visitors.

Final Thoughts

If you want a peaceful, spiritual, and scenic Himalayan escape, Tungnath is the perfect destination. But planning your visit during the right time will make all the difference in your experience.

✨ So what’s the best time to visit Tungnath Temple?

For a divine pilgrimage and comfortable trek → Visit in May–June
For clear mountain views and peaceful experience → Visit in October
Avoid monsoon and winter unless you’re a seasoned traveler

Whether you’re going for the blessings of Lord Shiva, the thrill of the trek, or the panoramic Himalayan views — Tungnath will reward you with peace and purpose.