Zelda Tears of the Kingdom: Best order to complete dungeons

The best order to tackle Regional Phenomena, dungeons, and temples in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom gives players more freedom than almost any other game in recent memory – even Elden Ring doesn’t let players flex and explore everything to this extent. It’s amazing for the feeling of exploration and freedom, but a bit awkward if you’re looking to beeline the main story.

To be clear: you shouldn’t beeline the main story. You’ll have less fun that way, frankly. But if you’re eager to actually take down all of the enemies, complete all of the dungeons, and you want to do it in a reasonable order, you’ll find the order you need in this guide.

Dungeons and Temples in Tears of the Kingdom can be difficult, especially if you attempt them too early. Follow our order below and you should have minimal issues – just make sure to complete Shrines to increase your health and stamina for a better chance of completing these easily. We will also be mentioning a secret temple in this guide, so only read below the four main temples if you’re prepared for a potential spoiler.

For more Zelda guides and tips, like how to find and activate all Skyview Towers, or an explanation of all Zonai Devices, make sure to read our full Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom walkthrough.

Best Regional Phenomena and Temple/Dungeon order – Zelda TOTK

Rito Village, Wind Temple – Zelda TOTK

After getting the Paraglider from Lookout Landing, it’ll be hinted that your first target when tackling Regional Phenomena will be Rito Village. Rito Village is to the Northwest, and there you can also find the Wind Temple by teaming up with Tulin and completing the Tulin of Rito Village quest.

Gerudo Town, Lightning Temple – Zelda TOTK

Gerudo Town is in the Southwest, and is covered by the Sand Shroud. You’ll also find it difficult to get into the shelter beneath Gerudo Town. Still though, Paraglide your way towards Gerudo Town from a Skyview Tower and simply charge through the Sand Shroud until you manage to make it into town. Explore hard enough and you’ll find your way into the shelter, along with Riju. Complete the Riju of Gerudo Town quest and you’ll find your way into the Lightning Temple.

Goron City, Fire Temple – Zelda TOTK

Beneath Death Mountain lies the Ancient City of Gorondia, also known as the Fire Temple. Death Mountain and Goron City lie to the Northeast of Lookout Landing, and Death Mountain is visible from almost anywhere in the game world. Once you arrive in Goron City, make sure to invest in some fire-proof armor and undertake the Yunobo of Goron City quest to lead to the Fire Temple.

Zora’s Domain, Water Temple – Zelda TOTK

Zora’s Domain was often the first place to visit in Breath of the Wild, but we’re leaving it until last of the main temples in Tears of the Kingdom. If you have fewer than eight hearts and some good armor, you’ll likely find enemies in this area can defeat you with a single shot. Scary stuff. Still though, it’s a great place to find powerful weapons. Complete the Sidon of the Zora quest to find the Water Temple.

Dragonhead Island, Spirit Temple – Zelda TOTK

This is the secret temple, and it lurks in the Depths – but to access it and start this quest properly, you need to begin on Dragonhead Island, the structure that lurks inside of the stormcloud in the Faron Sky. We won’t spoil exactly what happens here, but it’s best you get the Shrine Sensor Purah Pad upgrade before you take on this dangerous island.

Crisis at Hyrule Castle – Zelda TOTK

Once the four main temples are done and you return to Lookout Landing, you will spot Zelda seemingly returning to Hyrule Castle in the distance. You can use the Skyview Tower to get air and then beeline towards the castle entrance. Of course, you can attempt this at any time, we just don’t recommend it until you’re truly prepared.