Tungnath is one of those mystical places that entice both pilgrims and adventure enthusiasts. The highest Shiva temple in the world, Tungnath reaches 3,680 meters above sea level in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. It has strong ties to Hindu mythology and is a part of the Panch Kedar temples.
For travelers starting from Delhi, getting to Tungnath is a blend of road travel, scenic wonder, and some trek. Booking in advance will ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience. In this piece, we aim to make transparent all that you should know concerning the Delhi to Tungnath distance, travel time, route options, and handy tips.
Delhi to Tungnath Distance: A Quick Overview
Complete driving length from Delhi to Tungnath would be approximately 450 to 500 kilometers depending upon the drive taken and where the last destination is, just before starting the trek. The last motorable village leading to Tungnath is Chopta and that is approximately 3.5 to 4 kilometers in the downhill region below the temple at Tungnath. The balance has to be done by walking on a medium treking path through the route in Chopta.
To give you a snapshot:
- Road travel: Delhi to Chopta approximately 450–500 km
- Chopta to Tungnath by trek: 3.5–4 km
- Total travel duration: 14–18 hours with rest breaks and trek
- The difference in elevation between Delhi and Tungnath is around 200 meters to 3,680 meters.
How to Reach Tungnath from Delhi: Route Options
From Delhi, there are three main ways to get to Tungnath: by car, by train and road trip, or by plane and taxi ride. It all depends on your budget, traveling style, and time.
By Road: The most favored mode, particularly for those who enjoy driving in the hills. It provides maximum flexibility to explore stopovers.
By Train: Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh can be reached by train and then proceed by cab or shared means to Chopta.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. Cab there and proceed to Chopta. This is quicker but expensive.
All the routes involve a drive on scenic hill roads and valleys. Regardless of the mode you choose, the final stretch is always going to be the trek from Chopta to Tungnath.
Travel Time from Delhi to Tungnath by Road, Train, and Air
Travel time depends on the route you follow and the time spent at the stopovers.
- By road (direct car or cab): 14 to 16 hours depending on rest stops and traffic
- By train + taxi: 6 to 7 hours train from Haridwar, and another 8 to 9 hours road journey from Chopta
- By air + taxi: 1 hour air to Dehradun and an 8 to 9 hour road journey
Mountain roads beyond Rudraprayag may be slow due to reason of S-curves as well as traffic jams in peak seasons.
Best Route for a Road Trip from Delhi to Tungnath
Most widely taken by road path is:
Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta
This road is smooth drive up to Rishikesh and turns to become hilly and winding after post-Devprayag. Roads are generally good, temporary congestion due to monsoon-season landslips.”.
It is wise to start early in the morning from Delhi so as to avoid traffic and ride through daylight in the hills.
Delhi to Tungnath Distance via Chopta: Trekking Details
From Chopta, only via a trekking route of around 3.5 to 4 kilometers, can one get to the temple. The road is well sign-posted and neatly laid down for the most part. Being short and owing to the altitude as well as climbing involved, it’s not an easy ride but of a moderate nature.
What to watch out for on the hike:
- Altitude: From 2,680 m (Chopta) to 3,680 m (Tungnath)
- Time taken: 2 to 3 hours, depending on your health and pace
- Suitable for: Most individuals with average fitness, including kids and seniors with assistance
- Surface: Paved, forest trail with clear Himalayan summit view
You can also hike another 1.5 kilometers to Chandrashila Peak from Tungnath for a view of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath peaks.
Public Transport vs Private Travel: What’s Better for Tungnath?
Private and public travel are both available, but both have their pros and cons.
Private Vehicle:
- Provides you with total flexibility and freedom of movement
- You can take your own path and see nearby attractions
- Ideal for groups and families
Public Transport:
- Affordable, but time-consuming
- Buses up to Rudraprayag or Ukhimath are available
- You can take a shared jeep or taxi from there to Chopta
If travelling individually or on a shoestring budget, public transport is feasible, though for convenience and ease, a private car or cab is preferable.
Ideal Time to Travel from Delhi to Tungnath
Timing your trip right is crucial for both safety and enjoyment.
Best time to visit:
- April to June: Cool weather, clear skies, snow-free trekking trail
- September to November: Post-monsoon greenery and good visibility
Avoid:
- Monsoon (July–August): Frequent landslides, slippery paths, and travel delays
- Winter (December–March): Heavy snowfall; temple is closed during this period
Chopta and the surrounding area often receive snow during winter, making the roads inaccessible.
Must-Visit Stops on the Way from Delhi to Tungnath
There are several beautiful and culturally rich spots along the journey that are worth stopping at:
- Haridwar: A holy town on the Ganges, great for an overnight halt
- Rishikesh: Known for yoga, cafes, and the Ganga Aarti
- Devprayag: The junction of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, which forms the Ganga
- Rudraprayag: Another sacred town, often used as a base for reaching Kedarnath
- Ukhimath: Winter seat of Lord Kedarnath
These stopovers help break the journey into manageable parts and add to the spiritual and scenic experience.
Essential Travel Tips for Your Delhi to Tungnath Journey
- Set out early: Especially if driving to ensure that you reach Chopta in daylight.
- Carry warm gear: Even in summer, Tungnath may be chilly.
- Trekking shoes: Uneven sections on the route require good grip.
- Take snacks and water: Especially for the trek since stalls are few.
- Take a small first aid kit: Long drive time and high altitude can be tiring.
- Book stay in advance: Chopta gets crowded during peak season.
- Do not leave plastic litter: Help maintain the natural surroundings of the area to be pretty.
Conclusion
The road from Delhi to Tungnath may look far on the map, but the journey is worthwhile. At every kilometer, you inch closer to the tranquility of the mountains, the cleanliness of nature, and the spirituality of one of India’s most sacred shrines. As a first-time visitor or a seasoned visitor to Uttarakhand, this trip will stay in your mind forever.
Also Read: Jatoli Shiv Mandir Solan: The Tallest Shiv Temple in Asia
FAQ’s
What is the total distance between Delhi and Tungnath?
The distance is around 450–500 km by road from Delhi to Chopta, followed by a 3.5 to 4 km hike to reach Tungnath temple. This brings you from the plain of Delhi to the scenic heights of the Garhwal Himalayas.
How long does it take to come to Tungnath from Delhi?
It usually takes 14 to 18 hours, depending on the route, breaks, and traffic. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath adds 1.5 to 2 hours more. If you’re planning to enjoy the trip, consider a night halt at Rudraprayag or Ukhimath.
Is the road from Delhi to Chopta safe?
Yes, it’s largely safe, but from Rishikesh, the roads get hilly. It’s best to drive cautiously, particularly in monsoon and winter. Take good care of your car and avoid driving in the hills at night.
When is the best time to visit Tungnath?
April to June and September to early November are ideal, with good weather and pleasant trekking conditions. These months see the region bloom with alpine flowers as well, and offer stunning Himalayan vistas.
Is it possible to travel on public transport from Delhi to Tungnath?
Yes. Buses and trains reach Haridwar or Rishikesh. From there, you can reach Chopta on shared taxis. The trek starts after that. Although the public transport is cost-effective, it may involve changes several times and be time-consuming.
Is Tungnath trek suitable for beginners?
Yes. The 3.5 km path is manageable with minimal fitness. The gradient is not steep, and the landscape view makes it worthwhile. It’s one of the easiest walks to a temple at such a high altitude (above 3,600 meters).
Are there places to stay around Tungnath?
Yes, you’ll find budget hotels, guesthouses, and campsites in and around Chopta, the base for the Tungnath trek. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in peak seasons like May and October.
Does Tungnath receive snowfall?
Yes, heavy snowfall occurs from December to February. The temple is usually closed during this time due to extreme weather. However, the region attracts snow lovers and trekkers for winter trekking up to Chopta or Deoriatal.
Is Tungnath open all year round?
No, the temple is shut during winters (usually from November to March) and reopens in spring season annually. During the shut-down period, the deity is worshipped at Mukkumath village, near Chopta.
Can I reach Chopta by my own vehicle?
Yes, one can drive up to Chopta. Make sure your vehicle is good for hilly roads, especially in winter or rainy months. There is parking available at Chopta, and you start the trek from there to Tungnath.
