Places to Visit in Kedarnath and Tungnath

Published on September 23, 2025 | Updated on September 08, 2026

A Kedarnath–Tungnath journey offers much more than two temples. The surrounding region includes Himalayan summits, sacred shrines, alpine lakes and important pilgrimage stops that can be added naturally to the route.

If you are planning both destinations together, these are the best places to visit near Kedarnath and Tungnath without making the itinerary unnecessarily rushed.

1. Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath Temple is the spiritual centre of the region and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, reaching the shrine requires a mountain journey followed by the trek from the Gaurikund side.

Apart from temple darshan, the surrounding valley and high Himalayan setting make Kedarnath an important destination for both pilgrims and mountain travellers.

For route and itinerary planning, read the Kedarnath Tungnath Travel Guide.

2. Bhairavnath Temple

Located above the main Kedarnath shrine, Bhairavnath Temple is an important religious stop for pilgrims visiting Kedarnath.

The short uphill route also provides wider views of the Kedarnath Valley and surrounding mountains. It is worth adding when weather and physical condition allow.

3. Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple is one of the five Panch Kedar shrines and is closely associated with Chopta.

The official Uttarakhand Tourism trekking itinerary places Tungnath at approximately 3 km from Chopta, followed by a further climb towards Chandrashila.

The Tungnath route combines:

• Himalayan trekking

• Shiva pilgrimage

• Rhododendron and mountain landscapes

• Views towards major Garhwal peaks

Travellers should check current temple and trail accessibility before departure.

4. Chandrashila Peak

Chandrashila lies above Tungnath and is one of the best-known viewpoints in the Chopta region.

Travellers continuing beyond Tungnath can reach the summit when weather, fitness and trail conditions are suitable.

Chandrashila is particularly popular for:

✅ Sunrise views
✅ Himalayan panoramas
✅ Trekking
✅ Photography
✅ Views of peaks including Chaukhamba and surrounding ranges

The climb becomes steeper beyond Tungnath, so allow additional time rather than treating it as a quick extension.

5. Deoria Tal

Deoria Tal is one of the most scenic natural attractions that can be combined with the Chopta–Tungnath circuit.

The lake is approached from the Sari Village side and is known for its peaceful forest environment and Himalayan reflections during clear weather.

If lakes are a priority, read our dedicated Lakes Near Kedarnath & Tungnath guide, which also covers Vasuki Tal and Gandhi Sarovar.

6.Gaurikund

Gaurikund is an important access point for the Kedarnath journey and traditionally serves as the starting area for the trek towards the shrine.

Most travellers pass through the Sonprayag–Gaurikund section before beginning their Kedarnath ascent.

Rather than treating Gaurikund as a major sightseeing destination, consider it an important logistical and spiritual stop on the pilgrimage route.

7. Ukhimath

Ukhimath is an important religious town in Rudraprayag district and is closely connected with the Kedarnath pilgrimage tradition.

During the winter closure of Kedarnath, worship associated with Lord Kedarnath continues at the winter seat in Ukhimath.

The town also works well as a route stop for travellers moving between the Kedarnath side and Chopta–Tungnath region.

8. Chopta

Chopta serves as the primary base for the Tungnath and Chandrashila trek.

Its surrounding meadows, forests and Himalayan views make it worth spending some time here rather than using it only as a trekking starting point.

Chopta is particularly suitable for:

• Nature walks

• Photography

• Birdwatching

• Trek preparation

• Mountain stays

• Relaxed sightseeing

Best Places to Visit at a Glance

Place	Best For
Kedarnath Temple	Pilgrimage & Himalayan scenery
Bhairavnath Temple	Spiritual visit & valley views
Tungnath Temple	Pilgrimage & trekking
Chandrashila	Himalayan panoramas & trekking
Deoria Tal	Lake views & nature
Gaurikund	Kedarnath trek access
Ukhimath	Religious significance
Chopta	Nature & Tungnath base

How to Plan These Places Together

Trying to cover every attraction in one or two days can make the journey exhausting.

A more practical sequence is:

Kedarnath → Guptkashi/Ukhimath → Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Deoria Tal

Travellers primarily interested in the complete route can explore the Kedarnath Chopta Tour Package.

Season and weather significantly affect accessibility in this Himalayan region. Before fixing dates, check our Best Time to Visit Kedarnath and Tungnath.

For official destination and tourism information, travellers can also refer to Uttarakhand Tourism.

FAQs

1. What are the best places to visit near Kedarnath and Tungnath?

Popular places include Kedarnath Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila, Deoria Tal, Chopta, Ukhimath and Gaurikund.

2. Can Kedarnath and Tungnath be visited in one trip?

Yes. Both destinations can be combined, but sufficient time should be allowed for the Kedarnath trek, road transfers and the Tungnath trek.

3. What can I visit near Tungnath?

Chandrashila, Chopta and Deoria Tal are among the most useful additions to a Tungnath itinerary.

4. What can I visit near Kedarnath Temple?

Bhairavnath Temple is one of the most important nearby religious stops. Travellers planning longer trekking extensions can also explore the wider Kedarnath region.

5. How many days are needed for Kedarnath and Tungnath sightseeing?

Around 5–6 days is practical for many travellers when Kedarnath, Chopta, Tungnath and nearby attractions are combined.

6. Is Chandrashila worth visiting after Tungnath?

Yes, if weather, trail conditions and fitness permit. Chandrashila provides broader Himalayan views but involves an additional uphill trek beyond Tungnath.