Haridwar to Tungnath Distance: A Simple Guide to the World’s Highest Shiva Temple

Are you planning to visit the beautiful Tungnath Temple? It is the highest Shiva temple in the whole world! Many people start their journey from Haridwar, which is known as the “Gateway to the Gods.” In this guide, we will tell you exactly how far it is and the best way to get there so you can have a smooth trip.

Tungnath is not just a temple; it is a place of peace, high mountains, and fresh air. Whether you are traveling with friends or family, knowing the distance and the route is the first step to a great adventure.

Haridwar to Tungnath: Distance At a Glance

If you are in a hurry, here is a quick table to help you understand the journey.

Road Distance: Haridwar to Chopta

Before you start walking, you have to drive. The first part of your journey is getting to a tiny, beautiful village called Chopta. Chopta is the “base camp,” which means it is the place where the road ends and your trek begins.

The road distance from Haridwar to Chopta is about 190 to 210 kilometers.

On a flat highway, a car could finish this distance in 3 or 4 hours. But in the mountains, things are different! The roads are like a snake—they have many twists and turns. Because the roads are curvy and go up high, you have to drive slowly and carefully. This is why it usually takes about 8 to 9 hours to reach Chopta from Haridwar.

Pro Tip for Travelers: It is always best to start your journey from Haridwar very early in the morning (around 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM). This way, you can reach Chopta before it gets dark and enjoy the sunset!

The Trek Distance: Chopta to Tungnath & Chandrashila

Once you reach Chopta, the road journey ends, and your walking adventure begins! To reach the Tungnath temple, you have to walk on a paved path. This is called a “trek.”

The trekking distance from Chopta to Tungnath is 3.5 kilometers.

How long does the trek take?

For most people, it takes about 2 to 3 hours to walk up. If you are walking with children or elders, it might take a little longer. The path is well-made with stones, and there are many spots to sit and rest while looking at the snowy mountains.

Want to go higher? (Chandrashila Peak)

If you still have some energy after visiting the temple, you can walk another 1.5 kilometers further up to reach Chandrashila Peak.

• Total Trek (Up & Down): About 10 kilometers.
• Difficulty: It is considered an “easy to moderate” trek. This means if you can walk in a park for an hour, you can likely do this trek!

Smart Traveler Note: Because you are going very high up (over 12,000 feet), the air gets thinner. Take small steps and don’t run. If you feel tired, take a deep breath and enjoy the view!

Haridwar to Tungnath Route Map & Major Stops

The road from Haridwar to Tungnath is one of the most beautiful drives in India. You will drive alongside the holy Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. Along the way, you will pass through several famous towns. These places are great for taking a break, eating delicious local food, and taking photos.

Here are the main stops on your route:

• Haridwar: Your starting point.
• Rishikesh (25 km): The “Yoga Capital of the World.” This is where the hills begin.
• Devprayag (70 km from Rishikesh): A very special place where two rivers, Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, meet to become the Ganga.
• Srinagar (35 km from Devprayag): A big town where you can find good hospitals, markets, and mechanics if you need them.
• Rudraprayag (33 km from Srinagar): Another beautiful meeting point of two rivers (Alaknanda and Mandakini). From here, the road splits—one goes to Badrinath and the other goes toward Tungnath.
• Ukhimath (45 km from Rudraprayag): This is a quiet mountain town. In the winter, the idols from Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar stay here.
• Chopta (28 km from Ukhimath): Your final destination by road!

Where should you eat? Most travelers stop at Srinagar or Rudraprayag for lunch. These towns have many small “Dhabas” that serve fresh Parathas and hot Chai, which taste amazing in the cool mountain air.

How to Reach Tungnath from Haridwar: Transport Options

There are many ways to reach the base of the trek. Depending on your budget and how much adventure you want, you can choose one of these three options:

By Private Taxi or Car (Most Comfortable)

If you are traveling with family or a group of friends, hiring a taxi is the best choice. You can book a taxi from the Haridwar Railway Station or near the bus stand.

• Cost: A round trip (Haridwar to Chopta and back) usually costs between ₹8,000 and ₹12,000 depending on the type of car (like a Swift Dzire or an Innova).
• Travel Time: About 7 to 8 hours.
• Benefit: You can stop whenever you see a beautiful waterfall or a great view!

By Public Bus (Most Affordable)

This is the cheapest way to travel, but there is no direct bus from Haridwar all the way to Chopta. Here is how you do it:

• Step 1: Catch an early morning bus from Haridwar to Rudraprayag or Ukhimath.
• Step 2: From Ukhimath, you can take a shared jeep or a local “Magic” van to reach Chopta.
• Cost: The whole trip will cost you less than ₹500 to ₹700.
• Important: Most buses leave Haridwar very early, between 4:00 AM and 8:00 AM.

By Bike (The Most Adventurous)

Many young travelers love to rent a bike from Haridwar or Rishikesh. The roads are curvy and fun to ride, but you must be a good driver.

• Safety Tip: Always wear a helmet and carry a raincoat. Mountain weather can change in just 5 minutes!
• Fuel: Make sure to fill your tank in Rudraprayag, as there are very few petrol pumps after that.

The Best Time to Visit Tungnath

Since Tungnath is very high in the mountains, the weather changes a lot throughout the year. To have the best experience, you should plan your trip according to what you want to see—green meadows or white snow.

Summer (April to June) – Best for Families

This is the most popular time to visit. The weather is pleasant, and the flowers are blooming.

• Day Temperature: 15°C to 25°C (Cool and nice).
• Night Temperature: 5°C to 10°C (You will still need a jacket!).
• Highlight: The trekking path is clear, and the views of the Himalayan peaks are very sharp.

Monsoon (July to September) – Greenery & Clouds

During the rainy season, the mountains turn a bright, velvet green.

• The Good: The valley looks like a fairy tale.
• The Bad: Roads can be slippery, and sometimes there are landslides. Always check the weather forecast before leaving Haridwar.

Winter (October to March) – For Snow Lovers

If you want to see a “White Tungnath,” this is your time. However, it is very cold!

• Note: The main temple usually closes in November for the winter and reopens in April/May.
• The Trek: You can still trek to see the temple from the outside and play in the snow, but you will need very good shoes and heavy woolens.

Travel Tips Only Experts Know

When you travel to high places like Tungnath, there are some things you won’t find in a normal guidebook. Here are some “expert secrets” to help you travel like a pro:

• Cash is King: There are no ATMs in Chopta or on the trekking path. The last place to find a working ATM is usually in Ukhimath or Rudraprayag. Make sure to carry enough cash for your food, stay, and taxi.
• Phone Signal: Don’t expect to watch YouTube videos in Chopta! The mobile network is very weak. BSNL and Jio sometimes work, but it is best to finish your important calls before you leave Ukhimath.
• Save Your Battery: Did you know that phone batteries die much faster in the cold? Keep your phone inside your jacket pocket close to your body to keep it warm. Also, bring a power bank because electricity can be limited in mountain camps.
• Water and Health: Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Walking at high altitudes can make you feel dizzy (this is called altitude sickness). Drinking water and taking small breaks will keep you feeling energetic.
• The “Plastic-Free” Rule: Tungnath is a very holy and clean place. Please do not throw chocolate wrappers or plastic bottles on the trail. Carry a small bag in your backpack to keep your trash until you find a bin.

Best 3-Day Itinerary from Haridwar

Most travelers find that 3 days is the perfect amount of time to visit Tungnath without feeling too tired. Here is a simple plan you can follow:

Day 1: The Long Drive to the Mountains

• Morning (6:00 AM): Start your journey from Haridwar early.
• Afternoon: Stop at Devprayag to see the two rivers meet. Have a nice lunch in Srinagar or Rudraprayag.
• Evening: Reach Chopta (or a nearby place called Baniyakund). Check into your camp or hotel, have a hot dinner, and look at the stars.

Day 2: The Big Trek (Tungnath & Chandrashila)

• Morning (7:00 AM): Eat a healthy breakfast and start your trek from Chopta.
• Mid-day: Reach the Tungnath Temple. Ring the bells and enjoy the peaceful feeling.
• Afternoon: If you feel strong, walk another 1.5 km to Chandrashila Peak for a 360-degree view of the snowy peaks.
• Evening: Walk back down to Chopta. Your legs might be a little tired, so enjoy some hot tea and rest.

Day 3: Goodbye to the Hills

• Morning: Enjoy the last sunrise in the mountains and have breakfast.
• Journey Back: Start your drive back toward Haridwar.
• Evening: Reach Haridwar by 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM, just in time to see the beautiful Ganga Aarti if you like.

Where to Stay: Chopta vs. Tungnath

Choosing the right place to sleep is important so you can wake up fresh for your adventure. Most people stay in Chopta or Baniyakund (which is just 4 km before Chopta) because they have more options.

Here are the three types of stay you can choose from:

Swiss Tents and Camps (The Most Popular)

Chopta is famous for its “Swiss Camps.” These are big tents that have real beds and even attached bathrooms inside!

• Experience: It feels like you are sleeping in the middle of a forest. At night, you can sit by a bonfire and see millions of stars.
• Cost: Around ₹1,500 to ₹3,500 per night including dinner and breakfast.

Homestays and Hotels

If you don’t like tents, you can stay in a homestay or a small hotel.

• Homestays: These are great because you stay with a local family and eat home-cooked food. It’s the best way to learn about the local culture.
• Hotels: Places like The Bunker House or Snow Pod offer more comfortable rooms with better walls to keep the cold out.
• Cost: ₹1,000 to ₹4,000 depending on the comfort.

Staying Near the Temple (For Early Risers)

There are a few very basic guesthouses right next to the Tungnath Temple.

• Warning: These are very simple—sometimes just a room with a bed and a shared toilet. There is usually no electricity or hot water.
• Why stay here? If you want to see the sunrise from the temple or Chandrashila Peak without walking in the dark, this is the place.

Important Tip: Since Chopta is in a protected forest area, most places use solar power. This means you might only have lights for a few hours at night. Remember to charge your cameras and phones before you reach your stay!

Conclusion: Is the Journey Worth It?

The journey from Haridwar to Tungnath is more than just a trip; it is an experience that stays in your heart forever. Even though the drive is long and the trek can make your legs a bit tired, the feeling of standing at the world’s highest Shiva temple is magical.

Looking at the massive, snow-covered Himalayan peaks while hearing the temple bells ring in the wind is something everyone should experience at least once. Whether you are coming for the spiritual peace or the thrill of the climb, the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand” (Chopta) and the holy heights of Tungnath will not disappoint you.

Pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an adventure you will talk about for years!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some of the most common questions people ask when planning their trip from Haridwar to Tungnath.

1. What is the total distance from Haridwar to Tungnath Temple?

 The total distance is about 210 kilometers. This includes roughly 206 km of driving from Haridwar to Chopta and a 3.5 km trek from Chopta to the temple.

2. Can I reach Tungnath from Haridwar in just one day?

 It is possible but very tiring. You would have to leave Haridwar at 4:00 AM, drive for 8-9 hours, and then trek for 3 hours. It is much better to stay overnight in Chopta and do the trek the next morning.

3. Is there a direct bus from Haridwar to Chopta? 

No, there is no direct bus. You must take a bus to Rudraprayag or Ukhimath first. From there, you can easily find a shared jeep or local taxi to take you to Chopta.

4. How much does a taxi cost from Haridwar to Tungnath? 

A round-trip taxi (for 3 days) usually costs between ₹8,000 and ₹12,000. This price covers the driver’s stay and fuel. Always talk to the driver and fix the price before you start.

5. Is the Tungnath trek difficult for children or senior citizens?

 The trek is considered easy to moderate. The path is made of stone and is not very steep. Most children and healthy seniors can do it easily if they take plenty of breaks and walk slowly.

6. What is the best time to see snow in Tungnath? 

If you want to see lots of snow, visit between January and March. However, be prepared for very cold weather and check if the roads are open, as heavy snow can sometimes block them.