New Guide: Rishikesh to Tungnath, Distance Bus, Taxi Fare-2025-26

Rishikesh, the spiritual and adventure capital, serves as the perfect launchpad for deeper explorations into the Himalayas. One of the most sought-after journeys from here is the pilgrimage-cum-trek to Tungnath—home to the highest Shiva temple in the world.

This detailed, travel-friendly Rishikesh to Tungnath’s guide breaks down everything you need to know about navigating the challenging yet rewarding route, ensuring a seamless experience from the banks of the Ganga to the alpine meadows of Chopta and the sacred stones of Tungnath.

The Epic Journey: Rishikesh to Tungnath Distance

Tungnath, nestled at an altitude of 3,680 meters in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, is not directly accessible by road. The road journey ends at a scenic village called Chopta, which serves as the base camp for the trek.

Understanding the total Rishikesh to Chopta Tungnath distance is essential for planning your time and itinerary.

Distance Breakdown: Road vs. Trek

The final destination, Tungnath, sits atop a 3.5 km well-paved trail from Chopta. Most travelers combine this with the further 1.5 km ascent to the Chandrashila Summit (4,000m) for panoramic Himalayan views.

How to Reach Tungnath from Rishikesh: Transport Options

The journey is a full-day commitment, regardless of your chosen mode of transport. You must first cover the long road distance to Chopta.

1. Private Taxi (The Fastest and Most Comfortable Option)

For groups, families, or those prioritizing speed and comfort, hiring a dedicated taxi is the best way to travel.

• Mode: AC Sedan (Dzire, Etios) or SUV (Innova, Ertiga).
• Time: The fastest way, taking about 6.5 to 7.5 hours, including a stop at the mandatory checkpoint in Rudraprayag.
• Rishikesh to Tungnath Taxi Fare: The fare for a one-way trip typically starts from ₹6,000 to ₹7,500 for a Sedan and ₹8,500 to ₹10,000 for an SUV. Prices are calculated on a “per-day” basis, with the base fare covering the long distance. Always negotiate for a better price, especially for a multi-day round trip.
• Key Advantage: Direct, door-to-door service, allowing you to stop for scenic breaks (like the Ganga confluence at Devprayag) at your leisure.

2. Shared Taxi/Jeep (The Mid-Range Budget Option)

While direct shared taxis from Rishikesh to Chopta are rare, you can find shared transport that gets you most of the way.

• Route: Take a shared taxi from Rishikesh to Rudraprayag first. From Rudraprayag, hire another shared cab (often a Mahindra Maxx or similar jeep) going towards Ukhimath and then finally to Chopta.
• Cost: Much cheaper than a private taxi, but less comfortable and time-consuming.
• Time: The total journey time can easily stretch to 9-10 hours as you wait for the shared taxis to fill up at each stop.

3. Public Bus (The Budget Traveler’s Choice)

If budget is your primary concern, state transport buses (Uttarakhand Roadways) offer the cheapest way to travel, but require transfers.

• Rishikesh to Tungnath Bus: There are no direct buses from Rishikesh to Chopta.

Route:

• 1. Take an early morning bus from Rishikesh Bus Stand towards Rudraprayag or Ukhimath.
  2. From Ukhimath (the winter seat of Kedarnath), you must hire a local jeep or taxi for the remaining 30 km stretch to Chopta.
• Rishikesh to Tungnath Bus Fare: The fare from Rishikesh to Ukhimath is approximately ₹350 to ₹550 per person. The shared taxi from Ukhimath to Chopta will cost an additional ₹100 to ₹200 per person.
• Time: This is the longest route, taking 8-10 hours just for the road journey.

The Road Less Traveled: Route Details

The main route from Rishikesh to Chopta Tungnath distance follows National Highway 7 (NH 7) and is largely the same as the route for Kedarnath Yatra pilgrims up to Rudraprayag.

Key Milestones on the Journey:

1. Devprayag: Witness the spectacular Sangam (confluence) where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers meet to form the holy River Ganga. A mandatory photo stop.
2. Srinagar (Garhwal): A major town and important stop for food and fuel.
3. Rudraprayag: Here, the Mandakini River meets the Alaknanda. This is where the road bifurcates for Kedarnath and for the Tungnath/Badrinath regions. You will continue toward Ukhimath.
4. Ukhimath: The winter abode of Lord Kedarnath (Omkareshwar Temple). The road from here is increasingly mountainous and scenic.
5. Chopta: The roadhead and base camp for the trek.

Driving Note: The final stretch of the road, particularly from Ukhimath to Chopta, consists of steep, winding mountain roads. Self-driving is only recommended for those with experience driving in the Himalayas.

The Final Ascent: Chopta to Tungnath Trek

Upon reaching Chopta, the vehicular journey ends, and the trek begins. This easy-to-moderate trek is open for almost the entire year, except during heavy snow periods when the road to Chopta may be closed.

Essential Traveler Tips for Tungnath from Rishikesh

Planning your trip involves more than just figuring out how to reach Tungnath from Rishikesh:

• Best Time to Visit:
  • Summer (May – June): Pleasant weather, lush meadows.
  • Post-Monsoon (September – November): Clear skies, best views of the Himalayan peaks (Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi).
  • Winter (Dec – Feb): Heavy snowfall, requires proper gear and is inaccessible by road up to Chopta, requiring a longer trek.
• Accommodation: Chopta offers numerous options, from cozy guest houses to budget-friendly campsites, but book in advance, especially during peak season.
• Altitude: Tungnath is high (3,680m). Take the trek slowly, stay hydrated, and carry basic medicines for headache/nausea.
• Trek Essentials: Carry a rain jacket, warm layers (even in summer), good trekking shoes, a headlamp, and a water bottle.

Your journey from the spiritual energy of Rishikesh to the ancient, towering serenity of Tungnath is a true Uttarakhand experience—a blend of culture, adventure, and devotion that promises unforgettable Himalayan memories.

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