Chopta Chandrashila Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy
TREK DURATION
3 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
12,110 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
7 Km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
April to June and September to November
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun
Chopta Chandrashila Trek Overview:
Chopta Chandrashila Trek is known for its scenic beauty all season. It passes through some beautiful forests and affords excellent views of snow-clad peaks. The trek gives one the opportunity to visit the 1000-year-old Tungnath temple (12,073 feet), which is the highest shrine of Lord Shiva in the world. It is believed to have been built by Arjuna himself. According to legend, the arms of the bull form of Lord Shiva appeared in Tungnath. The Panch Kedar designated in the usual pecking order to be followed for pilgrimage for worship are the Kedarnath (3,583 m), the Tungnath(3,680 m ), Rudranath (2,286 m), Madmaheshwar (3,490 m) and Kalpeshwar (2,200 m).
One of the most beautiful attractions during the trek is Chandrashila Peak (12,110 Feet), famous for its breathtaking 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges. This peak is one of the few in Uttarakhand that can also be climbed during the winter months and makes the trail as one of best winter treks in Uttarakhand. Amazing view of Kedarnath Peak from the Top of the Chandrashila Peak.
History of Chopta Tungnath
Chopta Tungnath is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Historically and mythologically, it's considered a very significant temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the elevation of 3,680 m above sea level, it's the highest Shiva temple and one of the Panch-Kedar temples.
According to the mythological stories, when Pandavas went out in search of forgiveness of their sins after the war of Mahabharata, they were looking for Lord Shiva to forgive them but Lord Shiva was angry and he hid himself in the form of a bull (Nandi). Later the different parts of his body appeared in the different five places and these five places are known as the Panch Kedar. In Tungnath, Lord Shiva's arms appeared and Pandavas built a temple here. Tungnath temple is believed to be thousand years old and reflects the North-Indian architecture style. It is also believed that Lord Ram had meditated here.
The surrounding of Tungnath temple is very peaceful and full of positive aura. Every year, many devotees come here to worship Lord Shiva and get mental peace.
Highlights of Chopta Chandrashila Trek
Chopta Chandrashila Trek passes through alpine meadows, vibrant flower valleys, rhododendrons and oak forests and amazing wildlife. Here are highlights/campsites of the trek:
- Sari Village: Sari Village is a chosen basecamp for some itineraries, especially when Deoria Tal is included in the trekking journey. It is a peaceful village and you can view Kedarnath peaks from here.
- Deoria Tal: Deoria Tal is a high-altitude lake located in Rudraprayag district. It is surrounded by forests and Himalayan peaks. Many trekkers camp here at night for viewing the dazzling starry sky and its reflection in the lake.
- Chopta: Chopta is the primary campsite and highlighted spot for the Chandrashila Trek. Trekkers stay here for acclimatization. Chopta is surrounded by the alpine meadows and offers stunning sunrise and sunset views.
- Tungnath Vicinity: Due to being a sacred site, overnight camping is prohibited here but it offers a temporary halt to trekkers. The spiritual vibes here give mental peace and positivity.
- Chandrashila Summit: It is the highest point of the trek (4,000 m) and offers a 360° stunning view of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath and Chaukhamba.
Difficulty Level of the Chopta Chandrashila Trek
Chopta chandrashila trek is considered an easy to moderate level trek. It's also one of the shorter treks which takes 3 days to complete. Though it's a high-altitude trek (4,000 m) and passes through dense forests, snow-covered mountains and rocky patches but with proper acclimatization and fitness training, it can be easily done even by beginners.
The terrain includes slippery slopes and stone-paved paths. In snow and rain, it can create some challenges. From Tungnath to Chandrashila, you will face steepy climb. Trekkers must be fit with strong legs and cardiovascular health. Altitude gain is significant so take care of AMS. Trekkers can do it solo but joining a group is recommended.
Best Time to Visit Chopta Chandrashila Trek
The best time to do Chopta Chandrashila Trek is from early summer to post monsoon time.
- April to June: This time trails look beautiful as the arrival of spring makes flowers alive and vibrant. Blooming rhododendrons and clear view of Himalayan peaks make it an ideal time to do Chopta Chandrashila Trek. Temperature range is adaptable (10-20°C in daytime and around 5°C or below at night time). Beginners can trek this time as the chances of rain are low and trails are safe and accessible.
- September to November: After monsoon, the meadows are full of lush green. The temperature range is between 5°C–15°C in day time and goes 5°C to –5°C at night time. Occasional rain and snow can make trekking challenging but the view you get to see here during this time is unmatched. Perfect for photography lovers.
- December to February: Some trekkers also do winter trek to view the snowfall. However, the trails in winter are more challenging. Temperature range can also be below 0°C even in daytime.
How to reach the Chopta Chandrashila Trek
The Chopta chandrashila trek starts from the base camp Chopta, which is accessible by road from major cities of Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state like Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport), Rishikesh, Nainital, etc. After reaching Rishikesh or Dehradun, the trek route first leads to the Tungnath temple, located about 2 km from Chopta and is famous as the highest Shiva temple in the world. From Tungnath, the trail continues for about 1.5 km to reach the Chandrashila peak. This climb is steeper but rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul and Chaukhamba. The total trek distance is 7 km, which takes about 6-7 hours (the timing totally depends on the trekker's physical fitness).
Chopta Chandrashila Trek Route Map
For Chopta chandrashila trek, some trekkers choose Sari Village as basecamp especially when Deoria Tal is included, while some choose Chopta as basecamp.
- Reach Sari Village (basecamp, optional)
Altitude: Approx 2,000 m
Distance: Reachable by road (NH1) from Dehradun (226.4 km, 7 hrs) or Rishikesh (188.1 km, 6 hrs)
- Start trek from Sari Village to Deoria Tal (if included in itinerary)
Altitude: Approx 2,438 m
Distance: 2.5 km, 1-2 Hrs
- Deoria Tal to Chopta (Common Basecamp)
Altitude: Approx 2,680 m
Distance: 68.3 km, 2-3 Hrs
- Chopta to Tungnath
Altitude: Approx 3,680
Distance: 3.5 km, 3-4 hrs
- Tungnath to Chandrashila Peak
Altitude: Approx 3,690 m
Distance: 1.5 km, 1 hr
The Chopta Chandrashila Trek starts from the base camp Chopta, which is accessible by road from major cities of Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state like Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport), Rishikesh, Nainital, etc. After reaching Chopta from Rishikesh or Dehradun, the trek route first leads to the Tungnath temple, located about 2 km from Chopta, and is famous as the highest Shiva temple in the world. From Tungnath, the trail continues for about 1.5 km to reach the Chandrashila peak. This climb is steeper but rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul and Chaukhamba. The total trek distance is 7 km, which takes about 6-7 hours (the timing totally depends on the trekker's physical fitness).
Day 1: Dehradun to Chopta
Day 2: Chopta to Tungnath temple to Chandrashila and back to Chopta
Day 3: Chopta to Dehradun
In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your Chopta Chandrashila trekking experience. Whether you're a solo traveller, a group of friends, or a family, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made trekking program. This customized trek will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals, and any other premium facilities you may need during the trek. No other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a customized trek will enable you to fully enjoy the trek with your loved ones.
Day 1: Dehradun to Chopta
Drive: 205 km, 7-8 hrs
Altitude: 2,100 ft (640 m) – 8,556 ft (2,608 m)
Accommodation: Hotel/luxury Tents
Meals: Dinner
We start our drive from the Rishikesh/ Dehradun and through the towns of Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath to reach Chopta. This is a reserved forest and the nip in the air is easily felt due to the omnipresent oak trees. We pitch tents in Chopta and spent the night in the forest with hot dinner.
Day 2: Chopta to Tungnath temple to Chandrashila and back to Chopta
Trek: 8 km, 6 hrs
Altitude: 8,556 ft (2,608 m) – 12,073 ft (3,680 m) – 12,960 ft (3,950 m) – 8,556 ft (2,608 m)
Accommodation: Hotel/luxury Tents
Meals: Breakfast + Packed Lunch + Dinner
We start early today. From the picturesque environs of Chopta, we take the path through the arch leading up to the temple. Along the way, one may be able to spot a monal bird in the forest towards left. Himalayan Monal is the state bird of Uttrakhand. Tungnath is a short 2 km trek from Chopta. The temple is only visible in the last few hundred metres. It opens only in early summer and remains closed in winters. There are a few shops before the temple. We head up past the temple to the peak. According to a legend, Chandrashila is the place where Lord Rama meditated after defeating the demon-king Ravana. Another legend says that moon-god Chandra spent time here in penance. Stories apart, one gets to see a wide expanse of the most famous peaks of Garhwal from here. Soaking in the beautiful 360-degree views of the Himalayas we begin heading down to Chopta and reach by late afternoon.
Day 3: Chopta to Dehradun
Drive: 205 km, 7-8 hrs
Altitude: 8,556 ft (2,608 m) – 2,100 ft (640 m)
Meals: Breakfast
On this day, we can visit Omkareshwar temple in Ukhimath. It is the winter abode of the idols of Kedarnath and Madmaheshwar temples. The idols are brought here in palanquin when the Kedarnath temple closes in autumn. We drive back to Dehradun and reach by early evening.
Inclusion
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime, all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you, creating wonderful memories that will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region,n whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
- Transport support from Dehradun to Dehradun ( Pick-up location: Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station )
Pick-up Time: Around 7:30 am - Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek. - Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
- Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
Exclusions
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC. - Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 400 per bag per day.
- Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
- Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
Chopta is a hill station in Garhwal Himalayas Uttarakhand. It is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
Chandrashila is the summit above Tungnath Temple at 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) in Garhwal Himalayas Uttarakhand.
It offers 360° views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul and Chaukhamba.
It is a moderate but steepy trek. Beginners can do it with optimum fitness.
March-June and September-November.
Yes, but the trails are slippery and leech-infested.
Chopta → Tungnath (3.5 km) → Chandrashila (1.5 km) → Return to Chopta.
10 km round trip, taking 5-6 hours.
Yes, most people start early and return by evening.
Yes, early morning sunrise is stunning.
Tungnath Temple is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world, part of the Panch Kedar temples.
Yes, it is one of the shorter treks. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is approx 3.5 kilometers (2.1 miles) and from Tungnath to Chandrashila is about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) one way.
Yes, but camping near Tungnath is not allowed.
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