Chopta Chandrashila Trek: A Complete Guide

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand, offering a blend of scenic beauty, spiritual experiences, and thrilling adventure. This trek takes you to the Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, and further to Chandrashila Peak, which provides panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan ranges. Suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike, this trek is accessible throughout the year, with winter (December to February) being particularly captivating for snow enthusiasts.

Key Highlights

1. Tungnath Temple: Situated at 12,073 feet, this 1,000-year-old temple is a spiritual gem.

2. Chandrashila Summit: Located at 13,123 feet, the summit offers 360° views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath.

3. Picturesque Meadows: Lush green in summer and snow-covered in winter, the meadows of Chopta are a treat for nature lovers.

4. Diverse Flora and Fauna: Trek through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, home to rare Himalayan wildlife like monals and musk deer.

Trek Details

• Duration: 4-5 Days

• Grade: Easy to Moderate (ideal for beginners)

• Altitude: Maximum height of 13,123 feet (4,000 meters)

• Trail Length: Approximately 10-15 km round trip

• Best Time to Visit:

  • Winter (December to February): Snow trekking and frozen landscapes.

  • Spring (March to April): Rhododendron blooms.

  • Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and vibrant colors.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chopta

• Drive from Rishikesh/Haridwar to Chopta (7-8 hours).

• Overnight stay in camps or guesthouses.

Day 2: Trek to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak (8-10 km)

• Start early from Chopta.

• Ascend 3.5 km to Tungnath Temple through well-paved trails.

• After visiting the temple, trek an additional 1.5 km to Chandrashila Peak for stunning views.

• Descend to Chopta and stay overnight.

Day 3: Departure

• Explore the Chopta meadows and enjoy birdwatching before heading back.

How to Reach

1. By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, is the nearest airport (226 km from Chopta).

2. By Train: Haridwar or Rishikesh are the nearest railway stations.

3. By Road: Chopta is well-connected by road to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. Regular buses and taxis are available.

Accommodation Options

• Camping: At Chopta and nearby locations.

• Guesthouses and Homestays: Available in Chopta and nearby villages like Sari and Ukhimath.

Things to Carry

• Warm clothing, thermals, and waterproof jackets for winter.

• Trekking shoes with good grip.

• Trekking poles, headlamp, and sunglasses.

• Reusable water bottles, snacks, and energy bars.

• Personal first-aid kit and necessary medications.

Tips for Trekkers

1. Acclimatize properly and maintain a steady pace to avoid altitude sickness.

2. Winter trekkers should prepare for sub-zero temperatures.

3. Carry enough water and stay hydrated during the trek.

4. Keep the trails clean—avoid littering.

5. Start the trek early to enjoy ample daylight.

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is an unforgettable journey combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and Himalayan grandeur. Whether you're trekking under the blooming rhododendrons or walking on snow-covered trails, this adventure is bound to leave lasting memories.