Dehradun to Tungnath Distance

The Dehradun to Tungnath distance by road is approximately 243 to 246 km, which takes around 7 to 9 hours depending on your mode of transport, road conditions, and stops along the way. Tungnath sits at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand and holds the distinction of being the highest Shiva temple in the world. Since the temple is not directly accessible by vehicle, travelers drive or take a bus to Chopta first and then complete the final 3.5 km trek on foot to reach the temple.

Whether you are planning a spiritual pilgrimage, a Himalayan trek, or a scenic road trip, this guide covers every detail you need for a smooth journey from Dehradun to Tungnath, including route options, transport modes, travel time, taxi fares, bus information, and practical travel tips.

At YatraKey, we help travellers plan comfortable and memorable trips across Uttarakhand, including Chopta-Tungnath packages tailored to your schedule and budget. Call +91 9870808108 for complete tour information.

Distance From Dehradun to Tungnath at a Glance

Dehradun to Tungnath Route Information

The most commonly taken road route from Dehradun to Tungnath passes through some of the most scenic towns in the Garhwal Himalayas. Here is the complete route breakdown:

Dehradun → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar (Garhwal) → Rudraprayag → Agastyamuni → Ukhimath → Chopta → Tungnath (Trek)

Key Stops Along the Dehradun to Tungnath Route

Rishikesh (45 km from Dehradun): The yoga capital of India serves as the first major stop. You can have breakfast here, visit the ghats, and fuel up before the mountain roads begin. The drive from Dehradun to Rishikesh takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Devprayag (110 km from Dehradun): This is the sacred confluence where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers meet to form the Ganga. A quick stop here is well worth it.

Srinagar, Garhwal (155 km from Dehradun): Not to be confused with Srinagar in Kashmir, this is a notable town in the Garhwal region and a good lunch break point on the route.

Rudraprayag (175 km from Dehradun): Another holy confluence town where the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers meet. The town is also an important junction for routes to Kedarnath.

Ukhimath (210 km from Dehradun): A small but spiritually significant town. Tungnath’s deity idol is shifted here during winter months.

Chopta (220 to 247 km from Dehradun): This is the base camp for the Tungnath trek. Often called the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Chopta sits at around 2,680 meters and offers breathtaking meadows and pine forests. Your vehicle stops here, and the rest of the journey is on foot.

Tungnath Temple (3.5 km trek from Chopta): The stone-paved trail from Chopta to Tungnath takes 1.5 to 2 hours to climb and passes through rhododendron forests, open bugyals (meadows), and offers panoramic Himalayan views including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks.

Dehradun to Tungnath by Car

Traveling from Dehradun to Tungnath by car is the most popular and comfortable option for families, groups, and independent travelers.

• Distance: 243 to 246 km (Dehradun to Chopta)
• Travel Time: 7.5 to 8.5 hours (depending on stops and traffic)
• Road Type: NH7 up to Rishikesh, then state highways through mountain terrain
• Road Condition: Good from Dehradun to Rudraprayag; winding and narrow beyond that toward Ukhimath and Chopta

Driving your own vehicle gives you the freedom to stop at scenic spots like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and the Dhari Devi Temple along the way. Keep in mind that after Rudraprayag, the roads become more challenging with sharp turns and occasional single-lane stretches, so experienced drivers and hill-capable vehicles are recommended.

It is also advisable to begin the drive early morning, ideally by 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM from Dehradun, to reach Chopta by afternoon with enough time to complete the trek and return before dark.

Dehradun to Tungnath by Taxi

Hiring a taxi from Dehradun to Tungnath (Chopta) is the most convenient option if you want a stress-free, door-to-door journey without worrying about driving on mountain roads yourself.

Taxi Fare from Dehradun to Tungnath (Approximate)

Fares are approximate and may vary based on the season, fuel prices, and specific taxi operator. Contact YatraKey for the best current taxi rates and car rental packages.

Taxis are readily available from Dehradun Railway Station, ISBT Dehradun, and Jolly Grant Airport. Booking in advance is strongly recommended during peak season (May to June and September to October), as vehicles fill up quickly.

YatraKey offers reliable car rental services in Uttarakhand with experienced hill drivers who know the Chopta route well. Call +91 9870808108 for booking.

Dehradun to Tungnath by Bus

Travelling from Dehradun to Tungnath by bus requires taking a combination of bus routes, as no direct bus operates between Dehradun and Chopta (the Tungnath base).

Step-by-Step Bus Route

Step 1: Dehradun to Rishikesh

• Board a bus from Dehradun ISBT or take a shared jeep to Rishikesh.
• Distance: 45 km | Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
• Buses and shared jeeps are frequent throughout the day.

Step 2: Rishikesh to Ukhimath

• From Rishikesh ISBT, take a state-run Uttarakhand Roadways bus or a shared jeep toward Ukhimath.
• Distance: ~190 km | Duration: 6 to 7 hours
• Buses pass through Devprayag, Srinagar, and Rudraprayag.

Step 3: Ukhimath to Chopta

• From Ukhimath, take a local taxi or shared jeep to Chopta.
• Distance: ~20 km | Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Step 4: Chopta to Tungnath

• Trek 3.5 km on foot from Chopta to the Tungnath Temple.
• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Total Travel Time by Bus: 10 to 12 hours (not counting trek time)

While bus travel is the most budget-friendly option, it involves multiple transfers and significant waiting time. For a more comfortable and efficient journey, especially for families or pilgrims, a private taxi or a guided tour package from YatraKey is a far better choice.

Dehradun to Chopta Tungnath Trek Distance

The Dehradun to Chopta Tungnath trek distance is best understood as two distinct segments:

Segment 1 (By Road): Dehradun to Chopta — approximately 220 to 247 km by road, taking 7 to 9 hours.

Segment 2 (On Foot): Chopta to Tungnath — a 3.5 km moderate trek, taking 1.5 to 2 hours to ascend.

About the Chopta to Tungnath Trek

The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is one of the most accessible Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand, suitable for beginners, families, and senior citizens with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail is well-defined, stone-paved in sections, and clearly marked throughout.

• Trailhead: Chopta village (2,680 meters / 8,790 feet)
• Destination: Tungnath Temple (3,680 meters / 12,073 feet)
• Distance: 3.5 km (one way)
• Elevation Gain: ~1,000 meters
• Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Trek Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours (ascent), 1 to 1.5 hours (descent)

From the temple, trekkers can continue for another 1.5 km to reach Chandrashila Peak at 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), which offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan range including Kedarnath, Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. This extension makes the total trek around 5 km from Chopta, or roughly 4 to 5 hours including rest.

Mussoorie to Chopta Distance

Many travellers coming from or stopping at Mussoorie also want to know the Mussoorie to Chopta distance before planning their Tungnath trip.

• Mussoorie to Chopta Distance: Approximately 208 to 281 km by road (varies by route)
• Travel Time: 7 to 9 hours

The route from Mussoorie typically goes through Dehradun and then follows the standard Rishikesh-Rudraprayag-Ukhimath highway to Chopta. If you are already in Mussoorie, it makes sense to first descend to Dehradun or Rishikesh before heading toward Chopta.

Alternatively, some travelers take the Tehri route (Mussoorie → Chamba → Tehri → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Chopta), which is scenic but adds to total travel time depending on road conditions.

Distance Between Dehradun and Tungnath: Quick Reference

Here is a summary of key distances to help you plan your trip:

• Dehradun to Tungnath (via Chopta): ~243 to 246 km by road
• Dehradun to Chopta: ~220 to 247 km by road
• Dehradun to Rishikesh: ~45 km
• Rishikesh to Chopta: ~200 km
• Haridwar to Chopta: ~183 km
• Rudraprayag to Chopta: ~62 km
• Ukhimath to Chopta: ~20 km
• Chopta to Tungnath Temple: 3.5 km (trek)
• Tungnath to Chandrashila Peak: 1.5 km (trek)

Best Time to Travel from Dehradun to Tungnath

Choosing the right season is as important as knowing the distance when planning your Tungnath trip.

April to June: The temple reopens around late April or early May (Vaishakh Panchami). Rhododendrons bloom along the trail, and the skies are clear. This is one of the most beautiful times to visit.

July to August (Monsoon): The route remains open but involves some risk due to landslides and slippery roads in the hills. Trekking is possible but requires caution.

September to November: Post-monsoon is considered the best season overall. The skies are clear, views of the Himalayan peaks are spectacular, and the temperatures are comfortable.

December to March (Winter): The Tungnath Temple closes, usually in the first week of November. Heavy snowfall makes the Chopta road largely inaccessible, though adventure trekkers sometimes visit Chopta for a snow experience.

What to Pack for the Dehradun to Tungnath Journey

Preparing the right gear makes your journey significantly more enjoyable:

• Warm clothing: Even in summer, temperatures at Tungnath drop sharply. Carry a fleece jacket and a windproof outer layer.
• Trekking shoes: High-ankle shoes with good grip are essential for the Chopta to Tungnath trail.
• Rain gear: A compact poncho or rain jacket is useful during monsoon months.
• Water and snacks: Limited stalls are available on the trail. Carry at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water and energy snacks.
• Basic medicines: Altitude sickness can affect some travelers at Tungnath’s elevation. Carry basic medication and consult your doctor if you have a history of respiratory issues.
• Power bank: Phone signal is weak in Chopta; having a charged power bank is practical.
• Valid ID proof: Required for registration at some eco-sensitive entry points in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.

Accommodation Near Tungnath

Chopta is the primary base for anyone visiting Tungnath, and it offers a range of basic but comfortable stays:

• Guesthouses and lodges: Several budget guesthouses are available in Chopta. Book in advance during May-June and October.
• Tented camps: Many operators set up eco-camps in and around Chopta, offering a unique stay under the Himalayan sky.
• Dharamshalas: Near the Tungnath Temple itself, a few basic dharamshalas are available for pilgrims, though facilities are minimal.

For a comfortable stay package covering travel, accommodation, and guided trekking from Dehradun, explore YatraKey’s Uttarakhand tour packages.

Why Tungnath is Worth the Journey from Dehradun

Tungnath is more than just a pilgrimage site. Here is why this destination attracts thousands of travelers each year:

Spiritual Significance: Tungnath is one of the Panch Kedar temples, where the arms of Lord Shiva are believed to have appeared. It holds deep reverence in Hindu tradition and draws pilgrims from across India.

Trekking Appeal: The trail from Chopta to Tungnath is perfect for first-time trekkers. It offers the thrill of a Himalayan trek without the extreme demands of high-altitude expeditions.

Scenic Views: The meadows around Chopta and the summit at Chandrashila offer some of the finest views of major Himalayan peaks, a sight that makes every kilometer of the drive from Dehradun worthwhile.

Wildlife and Flora: The route falls within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, home to Himalayan monal (the state bird of Uttarakhand), barking deer, and rich alpine vegetation.

Accessible from Dehradun: Given that Dehradun has an airport and multiple rail connections, it serves as the ideal starting point for a Tungnath trip.

Plan Your Dehradun to Tungnath Trip with YatraKey

YatraKey is a trusted local travel agency based in Haridwar with years of experience organizing tours across Uttarakhand. We specialize in:

• Custom Dehradun to Chopta Tungnath packages for families, solo travelers, and groups
• Car rentals with experienced hill drivers familiar with the Rudraprayag-Ukhimath-Chopta route
• Do Dham Yatra packages that combine Kedarnath and Badrinath with a Tungnath sidetrip
• Complete Uttarakhand pilgrimage itineraries covering Char Dham, Tungnath, and more

Whether you need just a taxi from Dehradun to Chopta or a fully planned multi-day tour, our team handles every detail so you can focus entirely on the experience.

Book Your Tungnath Trip with YatraKey | View Tour Packages | Car Rental

Frequently Asked Questions about Dehradun to Tungnath Distance and Routes

What is the total Dehradun to Tungnath Distance?

The road distance from Dehradun to Tungnath (Chopta) is approximately 243 to 246 km. From Chopta, you need to trek 3.5 km on foot to reach the Tungnath Temple. So the combined distance is around 246 km by road plus 3.5 km on foot.

How long does it take to travel from Dehradun to Tungnath?

By car or taxi, the road journey from Dehradun to Chopta takes 7 to 8.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath takes another 1.5 to 2 hours. Total travel time is approximately 9 to 11 hours including the trek.

Is there a direct bus from Dehradun to Chopta?

No direct bus operates between Dehradun and Chopta. Travelers need to take a bus from Dehradun to Rishikesh, then connect to a bus or jeep going toward Ukhimath, and finally hire a local taxi or jeep from Ukhimath to Chopta.

What is the Dehradun to Tungnath taxi fare?

Taxi fares from Dehradun to Chopta (Tungnath base) range from approximately Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 5,000 for a sedan and Rs. 6,500 to Rs. 8,000 for an SUV on a one-way trip. Round-trip fares are higher and include driver accommodation. Contact YatraKey for current and verified taxi rates.

What is the Mussoorie to Chopta distance?

The Mussoorie to Chopta distance is approximately 208 to 281 km by road, depending on the route taken. Travel time is 7 to 9 hours. The most common route goes via Dehradun and then takes the Rishikesh-Rudraprayag highway toward Ukhimath and Chopta.

Is the Chopta to Tungnath trek suitable for beginners?

Yes. The 3.5 km trek from Chopta to Tungnath is rated easy to moderate and is suitable for beginners, families, and senior citizens with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail is well-marked and stone-paved in many sections.

When does the Tungnath Temple open and close?

Tungnath Temple generally opens in late April or early May (around Vaishakh Panchami) and closes in the first week of November. The temple remains shut during winter due to heavy snowfall. The idol is then moved to Makkumath Temple for winter worship.

Can I visit Tungnath from Dehradun in a single day?

Technically possible but not recommended. The drive alone is 7 to 8 hours one way. Attempting a same-day return would mean rushing through the trek and driving back on mountain roads after dark, which is risky. A minimum 2-night trip is advised for a comfortable experience.

What is the Dehradun to Tungnath Chopta distance via Rishikesh?

Going via Rishikesh, the total distance from Dehradun to Chopta is approximately 220 to 247 km. Rishikesh itself is 45 km from Dehradun, and from Rishikesh to Chopta the distance is approximately 190 to 200 km.

What is the altitude of Tungnath Temple?

Tungnath Temple is located at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet) above sea level, making it the highest Shiva temple in the world and a key part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit.

Planning your Dehradun to Tungnath trip? Let YatraKey take care of everything from transport and accommodation to a fully guided trekking experience. Reach out to our team today and get a customized itinerary crafted specifically for you.