Rudraprayag: One among the ‘Panch Kedar’ of Uttarakhand, the third Kedar ‘Tungnath’ has witnessed a record number of pilgrim’s footfall this year. Over 1.4 lakh pilgrims have visited this shrine since the portals of the temple opened this season. This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is said to be the highest Shiva temple in the world being located at an altitude of 3,680 meters.
This place offers an enchanting view of nature with fulfilment of their spiritual desires of visitors. This temple is reached via 3.6 km from Chopta near Ukhimath in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. The attraction of Tungnath temple is not only about the spiritual aspect only, but the lush green meadows, dense forests and panoramic view of snow-capped peaks also enhance the natural beauty of this place which easily attracts the tourists.
Over 1.4 pilgrims visited this Shiva temple this year
The number of devotees visiting the Tungnath temple has been steadily increasing over the past few years. This year, a record 1,40,322 pilgrims have visited Lord Tungnath, surpassing last year’s record of 1,36,430 visitors for the entire season. This growing number has significantly boosted the temple committee’s income. One major factor contributing to this increase is the attractive trekking route to Tungnath which offers mesmerising natural beauty of green meadows along with spiritual tranquility.
Boosted employment generation for locals
The influx of devotees to Tungnath Yatra has not only boosted the temple committee’s income but has also brought prosperity to local businessmen associated with the Yatra. The increased income for shops, lodges, and restaurants has created new employment opportunities for local residents. This year’s figures show that Tungnath Yatra has become the biggest yatra so far. With the portals of Tungnath set to close on November 4, the number of pilgrims is expected to rise even further.
After Kedarnath deluge and during Covid, the pilgrim’s footfall declined
Following the Kedarnath disaster in 2013, there was a significant decline in the number of pilgrims visiting Tungnath. Between 2014 and 2020, the annual number of pilgrims ranged from 5,000 to 17,000. The COVID-19 pandemic further reduced the numbers to just 4,513 in 2020 and 5,486 in 2021. However, the situation has improved significantly over the last two years. In 2023, 28,198 pilgrims visited Tungnath. This year, up until October 13, a record 1,40,322 pilgrims have visited, the highest number to date.
Publicity can boost potential
Aside from Kedarnath, there’s a gradual rise in pilgrims visiting the Panch Kedars, including Madhyamaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar. Ajendra Ajay, President of the Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC), believes that with widespread publicity and improved basic facilities, the number of pilgrims can increase even further. He emphasized that promoting these religious sites will not only enhance their significance but also create employment opportunities for local residents.
