The principal Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila route is commonly described as a moderate trek, with the final ascent to Chandrashila being steeper and potentially more challenging in snow.
Overview
A beautiful Himalayan journey through alpine meadows, ancient temples and spectacular mountain viewpoints, the Chopta–Tungnath Trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most rewarding short trekking adventures.
Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, the route takes you through the lush landscapes of Chopta to Tungnath Temple, traditionally revered as the world’s highest Shiva temple, and onward to Chandrashila Summit, famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including Chaukhamba and Nanda Devi on clear days.
The journey combines spiritual heritage, forest trails, rhododendron landscapes, mountain photography and rewarding high-altitude walking. It is ideal for beginners with reasonable fitness, families accustomed to hiking and experienced trekkers seeking a shorter Himalayan escape.
Trek at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Duration | 5 Days / 4 Nights |
| Maximum Altitude | Approx. 4,000 m / 13,123 ft |
| Trekking Distance | Approx. 15–20 km, including summit return |
| Region | Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand |
| Difficulty | Easy–Moderate to Moderate |
| Starting Point | Chopta |
| Ending Point | Chopta |
| Total Ascent | Approx. 1,200–1,400 m cumulative |
| Total Descent | Approx. 1,200–1,400 m cumulative |
| Temperature | Approx. −5°C to 20°C, season-dependent |
| Highest Point | Chandrashila Summit |
| Major Attraction | Tungnath Temple |
| Landscape | Alpine Meadows, Oak & Rhododendron Forests, Himalayan Ridges |
| Best Season | April–June & September–November |
| Optional Extension | Deoriatal Lake |
Highlights
- 🛕 Tungnath Temple: Visit the sacred Panch Kedar shrine of Lord Shiva.
- 🏔️ Chandrashila Summit: Enjoy breathtaking Himalayan panoramas.
- 🌄 Himalayan Peaks: Views of Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi and Trishul.
- 🌲 Rhododendron Forests: Walk through forests and alpine meadows.
- 🚙 Scenic Mountain Drive: Explore the beautiful Garhwal valleys.
- 🌅 Summit Sunrise: Experience magical early-morning mountain views.
- 🌿 Chopta Meadows: Relax amid peaceful mountain landscapes.
- 💧 Deoriatal Lake Extension: Discover a scenic lake with mountain reflections.
- 📸 Photography: Capture stunning Himalayan scenery and temple architecture.
- 🥾 Short Himalayan Escape: Combine spirituality, nature and adventure.
Itinerary
Road journey · Overnight in Rishikesh
Arrive in Rishikesh and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy the evening along the Ganga, meet the trekking team and receive a briefing on the upcoming journey. Prepare your equipment for the mountain drive.
Mountain drive · Approximately 7–9 hours
Drive through Devprayag, Rudraprayag and the scenic Garhwal mountain valleys towards Chopta. Enjoy views of forested slopes, traditional villages and distant Himalayan peaks. Check into a guesthouse or campsite and take a short acclimatization walk around the meadows.
Approximately 7 km return · 4–6 hours
Begin the trek along the established mountain trail through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. Reach Tungnath Temple, one of the sacred Panch Kedar shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend time appreciating the temple's architecture and surrounding mountain scenery before descending to Chopta for the night.
Approximately 9–10 km return · 6–8 hours
Start early for the ascent towards Chandrashila Summit via Tungnath. The final section is steep and can be snowy or icy in winter. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul and other Himalayan peaks when visibility permits. Descend carefully to Chopta and relax after the day's adventure.
Road journey · Departure
After breakfast, begin the return journey towards Rishikesh or Delhi. Depending on departure timings, you may stop at scenic viewpoints or local settlements along the route. Conclude the trip with memorable experiences of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Add 1–2 days for Deoriatal
Extend the journey with a visit to Deoriatal, a beautiful high-altitude lake reached by trekking from Sari village. On clear days, the lake offers striking reflections of the Chaukhamba massif. This extension adds a rewarding nature and photography experience to the Chopta itinerary.
