Planning to Take the Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek : Wonder What to Expect Beyond Chopta

Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek is a short yet thrilling trek in Uttarakhand. You need just 2-3 days for this magnificent winter trek in Uttarakhand. Trekking begins at Chopta village and covers the Tungnath temple trek, which is an easy trek. From Tungnath, you reach to the Chandrashila summit trek. This trek is a short yet steep trek route. Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek is an easy trek from Chopta.

When stressed, reach out to the mountains. Hear their whisper, listen to their stories. They will take you to places so stunning, your highest imagination cannot take you. Trekking is not just an adventurous trip to give you thrills or enjoyment. Trekking is a life-changing journey. It takes the stress away and returns you with new blood. It makes you realize whatever humans have achieved is nothing compared to nature’s marvels. Nature still is and will be the mightiest of us all.

One such thrilling trek is the spectacular and breathtaking Tungnath and Chandrashila trek. It is one of the beautiful treks in the majestic Himalayas. On the trail, you are welcomed by ancient temples while arcing Himalayan peaks. The trail offers more than just a climb. You feel the calm. You feel the existence of your being. You really feel valued. Let us take you on the trail of your life.

Introduction

The Tungnath and Chandrashila trek is magnificent. This is a spiritual trip which takes you to one of beautiful and ancient temple of Lord Shiva. Moreover, you pass through majestic trees and quiet summits on the trail. The trek starts from a tranquil village, Chopta. No wonder Chopta is also called the “Mini Switzerland of India.” From the quiet village, you ascend to the pine forests and alpine meadows. Soon, you will feel that clouds are drifting below your feet. No worries if you are naive; it is accessible. If you are a pro, it is unforgettable.

Beauty of the Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek

The Tungnath and Chandrashila trek is a journey of spirituality, and ancient history. The trek covers wilderness and transports you to highest peaks. You will visit the highest Shiva temple in the world on this trek. The grand Tungnath Temple is divine. You will walk pass the breathtaking Chandrashila Peaks. These summits will open up to the views of beautiful Nanda Devi. You will also see the Trishul peak, Kedar peak, and Chaukhamba summit.

Tungnath and Chandrashila trek is perfect if you have a long weekend in hand. You can explore the beauty of rhododendrons in spring or witness the snow I winters. Seasons transform the Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek trail. This trek starts from the Chopta village. Chopta is easily reachable from Rishikesh. Any long weekend is perfect for this trek.

Key Details of the Trek

Trekking starts at the village, Chopta. The village is at an altitude of 2,680 m or 8,790 ft. From Chopta, you climb to the Tungnath Temple. This path is for about 3.5 km. Overall you ascend for a 1000m more and reach at 3,680 m (12,073 ft). Next trek is steep and it continues for 1.5 km. Then you reach to the Chandrashila Summit. This is at 4,000 m (13,123 ft) altitude. While the distance between Tungnath and Chandrashila is short, the steep elevation makes it a thrilling and beautiful trek.

How to Reach Chopta?

Chopta is easily accessible from Rishikesh. You can visit through Delhi, Dehradun or Haridwar. It is ann easy trip through car, bus, or train from Delhi. A just 8–9 hours trip from Delhi will lead you to Chopta via Ukhimath. The journey itself is scenic with rivers, valleys, and mountain roads.

Best Season to Do the Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek

If you would like to see and mesmerize in the beauty of Rhododendrons bloom, visit in March or April. The forests turn into beautiful hues of scarlet, red, and pink. The route becomes a surreal path to heaven. To enjoy the peaks, visit in May or June when the summers are pleasant. Trekking in July to August or in early September should be avoided due to the Monsoon. The trails become slippery. Mid-September to October, the skies are sparkling clear. The season is also best for photography. From November to February, the route gets covered in a snowy blanket. You can choose the season as per your preference, yet September to October is the best season to trek on this route.

Itinerary for Chopta Chandrashila Trek

If you wonder what the day-wise Itinerary for the Chopta Chandrashila Trek is, here is a simple plan.

Day 1: You reach Chopta and settle in camps. You can opt for the guesthouses, too.
Day 2: Trek to Tungnath Temple, which is just 3.5 km. There you can explore, rest, or meditate. Later, you will trek for 1.5 km to reach the Chandrashila summit. After exploring nearby, you can descend to Chopta.
Day 3: Here, you can reserve a buffer day or explore nearby Deoria Tal.

Key Tourist Attractions

The attractions of the trek include:

• Tungnath Temple: This Lord Shiva temple is 1,000 years old and the highest in the world. It has beautiful stone carvings. The divine energy here is enthralling. Also, if you are a bird-lover, you can easily spot the Himalayan Monal here. This is also Uttarakhand’s state bird.
• Chandrashila Summit: Chandrashila Summit, or “Moon Rock,” leads you to beautiful peaks around.  Once you arrive here, you can view the Gangotri mountain range to your left.  To the right, you will witness the Chaukhamba summit. Just farther, there stand tall peaks of Mount Trishul and Mount Nanda Ghunti. Most thrilling of all is to witness the largest mountain, Mount Nanda Devi. So, nearly 20 famous peaks are around here. Major peaks are at a height of 7000 meters above sea level.
• You can enjoy a 360° view of the Himalayan Mountain ranges on this trek. Witnessing the sunrise here is magical.
• Deoriatal Lake: The most amazing and refreshing point on this trek is the Deoriatal Lake. This calm and enchanted lake is amid the thick forests of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Woods and Fauna: This is a breathtaking trail. You will cruise through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. It cradles this trail. Watching Himalayan Monal or musk deer grazing in meadows is exciting.
• Each climb feels like a step closer to the sky.

Read more: Chandrashila Peak

Trek Difficulty and Fitness Preparation

This mesmerizing trek is short, but the climb is steep. On the way, oxygen levels dip above 3,500 m. Before the trek, you need to have fitness preparation.

Fitness prep:

• Jog or brisk walk 3–4 km daily, 3 weeks before trek.
• Practice stair climbing.
• Light breathing exercises for stamina.
• With basic preparation, even first-timers can enjoy the trek.
• Important Gear & Items
• As the trek is steep. One needs to pack essential gear and things you will need. These may include:
• Sturdy and quality Trekking shoes
• Thermals
• Fleece, and down jacket
• Gloves
• Quality socks and cap
• Poncho or raincoat
• Walking stick (helpful on steep snow)
• Water bottle, energy bars, ORS
• Torch, power bank, sunglasses, sunscreen

ID proof

While on trek, it is good to travel light. However, it is prudent to never miss the essentials.

Accommodation & Camping Options in Chopta

Though the village, Chopta, is a quiet, sleeping village, it has some decent lodging and eateries. They are budget-friendly. However, during the peak season, it is safe you do an advance booking. In the busy season, you can opt to stay in Ukhimath and Sari villages if stays are sold out in Chopta, or you want to explore more. Camping is another option if you prefer tents.

Cost, Inclusions & Exclusions

Typical cost of the trek is INR 3,500– INR 6,500 for 2N/3D packages. This includes meals, guide, and permit on the way. It also provides accommodation in camps and homestays. Trekker has to bear the cost of travelling to the village, Chopta, personal gear, and any emergency expenses.

Inclusions:

• Meals during the trek
• Guide and permits
• Accommodation in camps or homestays
• Exclusions:
• Transport to Chopta
• Personal gear
• Emergency expenses
• It is good to always confirm every detail before booking.

Not to Miss Points

For this Tungnath and Chandrashila trek, it is good to carry all essentials you might need on the way. You should carry enough cash as ATMs are scarce. As network connectivity can be weak in some places, do inform your family before the trek. Nature gives you so much, and in return, you can respect her by not littering. Carry your plastics and garbage with you back to dispose of properly. Hydration is the key on the way. Since this trek is steep, you need keep regulated and slow pace.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Question 1. Where is Chopta?

Answer: Chopta is the village where the trek starts. 

Question 2. Can a beginner trek on Chandrashila trek?

Answer: Yes, with basic fitness and guidance, a beginner can take this trek. It is safe trek.

Question 3. Should we have a trained guide on the Tungnath and Chandrashila trek?

Answer: It is not mandatory; however, it is good to have a trained guide on those unknown trails.

Question 4. Is the trek from Tungnath and Chandrashila a snowy trail?

Answer: Yes, during December to March, snow can be seen.

Question 5. What is the distance of Chopta- Tungnath-Chandrashila trek?

Answer: The total distance of Chopta -Tungnath and Chandrashila trek is for around 5 km.

Read more about Chopta Chandrashila Trek Guide