Tungnath by Bus: Budget Travel Tips & Routes

Q: Can I book buses online for Tungnath?

Yes, you can book buses up to Rishikesh via UTC (Uttarakhand Transport) at https://www.utconline.uk.gov.in/ or using their mobile app. Beyond Rishikesh, tickets must be purchased offline.

Q: Are there direct buses from Delhi to Chopta?

No, there are no direct buses from Delhi to Chopta. You need to travel to Rishikesh first and then take a bus or shared taxi to Ukhimath and Chopta.

Q: How do I return from Tungnath?

To return from Tungnath, take a shared taxi from Chopta to Ukhimath, then follow the same bus route back via Rudraprayag and Rishikesh.

Visiting Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple, is an experience like no other. But getting there without a private vehicle can seem tricky. Is it possible to reach Tungnath by bus? Absolutely! And not only is it budget-friendly, but it also adds an element of adventure to your journey.

This insider’s guide will help you travel to Tungnath using only public transport, without confusion or extra expenses.

Why Choose Public Transport for Tungnath?

Cost-effective: Buses and shared taxis are far cheaper than private cabs.
Local experience: Ride with locals, soak in Himalayan culture, and enjoy scenic routes.
Sustainable travel: Lower carbon footprint compared to personal vehicles.

In this guide, you’ll find:

✔️ Best bus routes to reach Tungnath from major cities

✔️ Cost breakdown: Bus fares, shared taxis & hidden charges

✔️ Smart travel hacks for a hassle-free journey

✔️ Trusted government bus booking link 📲

✔️ Affordable homestays run by Uttarakhand government 🏡

✔️ Pro tips for an unforgettable Tungnath trek experience

How to Reach Tungnath by Bus 🚍

Snow-capped mountain peaks under a clear blue sky, with a winding path on a dark hill in the foreground. Peaceful and majestic scene.

Step 1: Reach Rishikesh or Haridwar

Your first goal is to reach Rishikesh or Haridwar, the key transit hubs for buses heading into the Garhwal Himalayas.

✅ From Delhi: Take an overnight Volvo or an Uttarakhand Transport bus (₹500-₹800, 6-7 hours).

✅ From Dehradun: Direct government and private buses (₹200-₹400, 2-3 hours).

✅ From Chandigarh: Bus to Haridwar (₹500-₹900, 5-6 hours), then continue to Rishikesh.

🚀 Pro Tip: Take a bus that reaches Rishikesh before 5 AM to catch early morning buses to Rudraprayag.

📌 Official Bus Booking Link: Uttarakhand Transport Corporation(Book government buses online & check real-time schedules!)

Step 2: Rishikesh to Rudraprayag (Scenic Route)

From Rishikesh ISBT, take a government or private bus to Rudraprayag (₹350-₹500, 6-7 hours).

🚌 Bus Frequency: Every 1-2 hours between 4 AM - 12 PM

🌄 Best Side to Sit: Left side for breathtaking valley & river views!

Must-See En Route:

Devprayag – Where the Bhagirathi & Alaknanda rivers meet to form the Ganga.
Srinagar (Garhwal) – A historic town with local eateries & stunning riverbanks.

Step 3: Rudraprayag to Ukhimath – Entering the Kedarnath Valley

🚐 Travel Options:✅ Shared Jeep (₹100-₹150, 1.5 hours) – Faster & more flexible.

✅ Local Bus (₹80-₹120, 2 hours) – Cheaper, but limited frequency.

📌 Stay in Government-Approved Homestays!

🏡 Book affordable, local homestays via: Uttarakhand Government Homestays

Step 4: Ukhimath to Chopta – The Final Stretch

🚖 Best Option:

✅ Shared taxis (₹150-₹250 per person) leave when full.

✅ If no taxi is available, take a bus to Chopta Road Junction and hitch a ride.

⚠️ Bus Warning: No direct buses to Chopta, so taxis are the best bet.

🚶‍♂️ For Adventurers: Trek from Ukhimath to Chopta (20 km, 5-6 hours) for an offbeat experience.

Step 5: The Final Trek to Tungnath

From Chopta, trek 3.5 km uphill to Tungnath.

⏳ Trek Duration: 3-4 hours❄️ Best Time to Visit: March-June & September-November💰 Entry Fee: None, but ₹50 eco-tax (for conservation)

💡 Pro Hack: Start before sunrise for a golden sunrise view at Tungnath.

Travel Hacks & Smart Tips 🎒

✅ Avoid Peak Seasons: May-June & September-October are crowded & expensive. Travel in March-April or November for a peaceful experience.

✅ Pack Light, But Carry Layers: Buses have limited space. A small backpack with warm clothes, rain gear & snacks is ideal.

✅ Save Local Taxi Numbers: Many remote areas have no online taxi booking. Ask for driver contacts at Ukhimath/Rudraprayag in advance.

✅ Carry a Reusable Bottle: No natural water sources on the Tungnath trek except for local stalls.

Cost Breakdown: How Much Will This Trip Cost? 💰

Expense	Approx Cost (INR)
Delhi to Rishikesh Bus	₹500 - ₹800
Rishikesh to Rudraprayag Bus	₹350 - ₹500
Rudraprayag to Ukhimath Taxi	₹100 - ₹150
Ukhimath to Chopta Taxi	₹150 - ₹250
Eco-tax at Tungnath	₹50
Food & Snacks (2 Days)	₹500 - ₹1000
Stay at Chopta (Budget)	₹500 - ₹1000
Total (One Way)	₹1,800 - ₹3,000

🚀 Super Budget Hack: Take only government buses and travel in groups to split taxi fares.

Final Thoughts: Is Tungnath by Bus Worth It?

Absolutely! The journey is not just about reaching Tungnath but about experiencing the real Himalayan adventure—local travel, budget-friendly routes, and breathtaking landscapes.

💭 “Travel isn’t about reaching a place; it’s about embracing the journey.” Keep this in mind as you navigate your way to Tungnath, one bus ride at a time.

FAQs: Your Final Travel Checklist

❓ Can I book buses online for Tungnath?

✅ Yes, up to Rishikesh via UTC: Book Here

❓ Are there direct buses from Delhi to Chopta?

❌ No, you must break the journey at Rishikesh & Ukhimath.

❓ How do I return from Tungnath?

Take a shared taxi from Chopta to Ukhimath, then follow the same bus route back.

Would you take the bus to Tungnath for an offbeat experience? Share your thoughts below! 🚍💙

Tungnath by Bus: Budget Routes, Travel Hacks & Must-Know Tips!