Shivling is a peak in the Gangotri group of mountains near the snout of the Gangotri Glacier. As the name suggests the Shivling peak resembles Lord Shiva and is also called `Mahdev ka Linga`. Its amazing form is often compared to that of "Matterhorn peak". In fact, the early European visitors used to call it "Matterhorn Peak" due to its similarity in appearance to that Alpine peak.

It is considered as one of the most beautiful peaks in all Garhwal. Though the peak is not of great elevation, it is dramatically rocky and difficult to climb. This fact makes it a famed prize for adventure lovers. It was first scaled on June 3, in the year 1974 by a team from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, led by Hukam Singh. Since then around ten other routes have been discovered to the summit which used all major ridges and most major faces of the mountain.

Location of Shivling Peak
It lies in the state of Uttarakhand and is a part of the Himalayan mountain ranges, which lies in the Garhwal region. It is located at a distance of six kilometres in the south of the Hindu pilgrimage destination, Gaumukh which is the source of the Bhagirathi River. This lofty magnificent peak is located at an altitude of 6,543 meters above mean sea level.

Attractions of Shivling Peak
Shivling is well guarded from all sides by rocky terrain except on the west side where the slope is moderate enough for the accumulation of snow. It forms the western gateway for the lower Gangotri Glacier, which is just opposite the Bhagirathi peak.

When seen from Gaumukh, Shivling appears as a single pyramid but it is actually a mountain with twin summit. The northeast pinnacle is slightly higher than the southwest pinnacle. The region between Gaumukh and Shivling lies on Tapovan meadow, which is a famous pilgrimage destination.

Connectivity of Shivling Peak
This holy Shivling peak attracts thousands of devotees, enthusiastic trekkers and photographers every year and therefore it has a good system of communication. Shivling peak can be accessed through Chaturangi Vamak route. The nearest airport is at Jollygrant and the nearest railway station is at Rishikesh.