Tungareshwar Temple Travel Guide

This guide provides detailed information for planning a trip to Tungareshwar Temple, including transportation options, trekking routes, and nearby attractions.

Getting There

• By Train:
  • Take a local train and get off at Vasai station.
  • Alternatively, alight at Nalasopara station. It might be less crowded to board from there, especially on holidays.
• From Vasai Station:
  • Take a bus from Vasai East to Tungareshwar. Buses are frequently available.
  • Auto-rickshaws are also an option, costing around ₹50 per person.
• Bus Route within Tungareshwar:
  • From Vasai East bus stand, take a bus towards Virar phata and alight at Sativli.
  • From Sativli, walk towards the destination. Buses used to go further, but services are currently stopped due to road conditions.
• Alternative Drop-off Points:
  • Tunga Phata or Bapa Sitaram Temple are other possible drop-off points if traveling by auto-rickshaw.

The Trek to the Temple

• Starting Point:
  • From Sativli, walk along the road, crossing a bridge to reach the Tungareshwar Temple main gate.
• Private Vehicles:
  • Private vehicles (cars or bikes) can be taken further inside, but note that the road condition is poor.
• Walking Distance:
  • From the main gate or bus drop-off point (Sativli), it is approximately 2-3 kilometers walk to the temple.
• River Crossings:
  • There are multiple water crossings along the trek.
  • You can either walk through the water or use the provided bridges.
  • During the monsoon season, be cautious as the water level can be high.
• Alternative Transport After Second Water Crossing:
  • After the second water crossing, shared jeeps or auto-rickshaws are available for around ₹50 per person to reach closer to the temple.

Important Considerations

• Monsoon Season:
  • Carry an umbrella or raincoat due to frequent rains in Mumbai.
  • Be cautious of slippery paths during the trek.
• River Crossing Safety:
  • Exercise caution while crossing the water streams, especially during the monsoon season.
• Parking:
  • Designated parking spots are available. Avoid parking haphazardly.
• Monkeys:
  • Be aware of monkeys along the route. Secure any food items as they may try to snatch them.

Attractions at Tungareshwar

• Main Temple:
  • Visit the main Tungareshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Other Temples:
  • Explore other temples within the complex, including those dedicated to Hanumanji, Khodiyar Mata, Jag Mata, and Kal Bhairav.
• Khodiyar Mata Temple:
  • Located to the right of the main temple, accessible via stairs.
• Gaumukh:
  • Visit the Gaumukh, a natural water outlet, located further uphill.
• Waterfalls:
  • Enjoy the waterfalls near the Khodiyar Mata temple or further uphill
  • The waterfall behind the main temple is also a popular spot.
• Bhandara (Community Kitchen):
  • During the month of Shravan (Sawan), a Bhandara (community kitchen) is organized on Sundays and Mondays, offering free meals.

Historical Significance

• Tungareshwar is believed to be the place where Lord Parashurama killed a demon named Tunga.
• It is said that Lord Parashurama meditated here.
• Near the temple is Sopara, believed to be where Adi Shankaracharya meditated, now known as Nalasopara.

Tips for Enjoying the Trek

• Take breaks during the trek to avoid exhaustion.
• Enjoy the scenic views and natural beauty along the route.
• Capture memories by taking photos of the surroundings.
• There are snack stalls and shops along the trekking path where you can purchase refreshments.