World’s Highest Shiva Temple in Uttarakhand Struggles with Water Leakage Issues

Tungnath temple, the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at an altitude of 3,680 metres in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, is facing serious structural problems including water leakage, subsidence and foundation collapse which are aggravated during monsoon season. Ongoing heavy rains have accelerated the damage, raising concerns over the stability and safety of the ancient temple for devotees and tourists.

Locals believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas of Mahabharat after the Kurukshetra War.

In response, the Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee, chaired by Ajendra Ajay, has approached the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to consider possible restoration options. Both organisations sent teams of experts to inspect the site in September. After assessing the situation, they recommended measures to the temple committee to protect the temple from further damage.

“The temple is facing serious issues like subsidence, weakening foundation, and shifting wall slates, which have caused water leakage, especially during the rainy season,” Ajay added. To guarantee the safety of the temple, the committee has also asked the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) for assistance.

Manoj Saxena, superintendent archaeologist at ASI, said TOI, “While the temple is not officially protected by ASI, our team visited the site and gave our recommendations. Now it is up to the temple committee and the Uttarakhand govt to take the necessary actions.”

The matter was also raised by Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj, who stated, that “Given the temple’s water leakage and structural problems, the govt is prioritising its repair to ensure the structure remains safe for all visitors.”