Chopta - Tungnath Trek
Uttarakhand
Duration
3D/2N
Grade
Easy
Max Altitude
13,100 ft.
Trekking Km
10 Kms
Chopta - Tungnath Trek Overview
- Trek Name: Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
- Location: Uttarakhand, India
- Days: 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Pickup & Drop: Rishikesh
- Base Camp: Chopta
- Adventure: Trekking
- vaMaximum Altitude: 13,123 ft (4,000 m)
- Trek Distance: 10 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Season: All Seasons
- Months: All Months
The Chopta Tungnath Trek is one of the most popular and rewarding short Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand, offering a perfect blend of spirituality, adventure, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Nestled in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, this trek takes you through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and deodar before reaching Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world at an altitude of 12,073 ft (3,680 m). From Tungnath, the trail continues to the iconic Chandrashila Summit (13,123 ft / 4,000 m), where trekkers are rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers, the Chopta Tungnath Trek is famous for its well-defined trails, vibrant alpine meadows, snow-covered landscapes in winter, and panoramic Himalayan vistas. Along the route, you’ll witness magnificent peaks such as Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath Peak, Trishul, Bandarpoonch, Kedar Dome, and Neelkanth. The trek is equally enchanting in every season—lush green forests and blooming rhododendrons in spring, pleasant weather during summer, crystal-clear mountain views in autumn, and magical snow-covered trails in winter. Best visited between March to June and September to December, the Chopta Tungnath Trek is an ideal destination for pilgrims, photographers, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts seeking one of the most scenic weekend treks in the Indian Himalayas.
Chopta - Tungnath Trek Itinerary
Day 1 – Drive From Rishikesh to Chopta
• Altitude: Rishikesh (372 m / 1,220 ft), Chopta (2,680 m / 8,790 ft)
• Altitude Gain: 2,308 m / 7,570 ft
• Drive Distance: 210 km | 8–9 hrs
• Enjoy a scenic drive through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath before reaching Chopta, popularly known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.”
Day 2 – Trek From Chopta to Tungnath and Chandrashila Summit, Drive to Rishikesh
• Altitude: Chopta (2,680 m / 8,790 ft), Tungnath Temple (3,680 m / 12,073 ft), Chandrashila Summit (4,000 m / 13,123 ft)
• Altitude Gain: 1,320 m / 4,333 ft
• Altitude Loss: 3,628 m / 11,903 ft
• Trek Distance: 10 km | 5–6 hrs (Round Trip)
• Drive Distance: 210 km | 8–9 hrs
• Trek to the world’s highest Shiva temple at Tungnath and continue to Chandrashila Summit for breathtaking Himalayan views before driving back to Rishikesh, concluding the trek.
Day 1 – Drive From Rishikesh to Joshimath
- Altitude: Rishikesh (372 m / 1,220 ft), Chopta (2,680 m / 8,790 ft)
- Altitude Gain: 2,308 m / 7,570 ft
- Drive Distance: 210 km | 8–9 hrs
Your Chopta Tungnath Trek begins from Rishikesh, the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. After an early morning departure, embark on a scenic drive through the winding mountain roads of Uttarakhand, following the sacred Alaknanda River and passing through picturesque valleys, charming hill towns, and dense forests. Throughout the journey, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of river gorges, terraced fields, and the majestic Himalayan landscape.
En route, witness the famous Devprayag, where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers merge to form the holy Ganga. Continue your drive through Rudraprayag, the sacred confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, before passing through Agastyamuni and Ukhimath, the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath. As the road climbs higher, the scenery becomes increasingly spectacular, with thick forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron leading you towards the serene meadows of Chopta.
By evening, arrive at Chopta, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.” Surrounded by lush forests and towering Himalayan peaks, Chopta is the base camp for the Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek. Check into your campsite or guest house, relax amidst the peaceful mountain surroundings, and prepare for the exciting summit trek the following day.
Highlights of the Day:
• Scenic drive through the Garhwal Himalayas from Rishikesh
• Visit the sacred confluence of Devprayag and Rudraprayag
• Pass through Agastyamuni and Ukhimath, the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath
• Enjoy breathtaking views of river valleys, forests, and Himalayan landscapes
• Arrive at Chopta, the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”
• Witness magnificent views of Chaukhamba, Kedarnath Peak, and surrounding Himalayan ranges
Meals Included: Dinner
Stay: Campsite/Guest House in Chopta
Day 2 – Drive to Poolna and Trek to Ghangaria
- Altitude: Chopta (2,680 m / 8,790 ft), Tungnath Temple (3,680 m / 12,073 ft), Chandrashila Summit (4,000 m / 13,123 ft)
- Altitude Gain: 1,320 m / 4,333 ft
- Altitude Loss: 1,320 m / 4,333 ft
- Trek Distance: 10 km | 5–6 hrs (Round Trip)
Begin your day before sunrise with a hot breakfast and set out on one of the most rewarding Himalayan day treks in Uttarakhand. The well-laid stone pathway gradually climbs through lush alpine meadows, dwarf rhododendron forests, and open mountain slopes, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Garhwal Himalayas throughout the journey. As you gain altitude, the fresh mountain air and ever-expanding panoramas make every step memorable.
After approximately 3.5 km, arrive at Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world and one of the sacred Panch Kedar shrines. Believed to be over 1,000 years old, the temple holds immense religious significance and offers a peaceful atmosphere amidst snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Spend time offering prayers, exploring the ancient stone architecture, and enjoying the spiritual ambiance before continuing towards Chandrashila.
From Tungnath, the trail ascends steeply for another 1.5 km to Chandrashila Summit, the highest point of the trek. The summit rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of some of the most iconic Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath Peak, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Bandarpoonch, Kedar Dome, Neelkanth, Kamet, and the Gangotri Range. Spend quality time soaking in the magnificent scenery, capturing unforgettable photographs, and enjoying the tranquil surroundings before descending along the same route back to Chopta.
Reach Chopta by evening and relax at your campsite or guest house, celebrating an unforgettable day in the Himalayas.
Highlights of the Day:
• Trek to Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple
• Visit one of the sacred Panch Kedar temples
• Summit Chandrashila Peak for spectacular 360-degree Himalayan views
• Witness Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath Peak, Trishul, Bandarpoonch, Kedar Dome, Neelkanth, Kamet, and the Gangotri Range
• Trek through alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and scenic mountain trails
• Return to Chopta for an overnight stay amidst the peaceful Himalayan landscape
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Stay: Campsite/Guest House in Chopta
Day 3 – Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and Back
- Altitude: Chopta (2,680 m / 8,790 ft), Sari Village (2,000 m / 6,560 ft), Deoria Tal (2,438 m / 7,999 ft), Rishikesh (372 m / 1,220 ft)
- Altitude Loss: 2,308 m / 7,570 ft
- Trek Distance: 5 km | 2–3 hrs (Round Trip)
- Drive Distance: 230 km | 8–9 hrs
After an early breakfast, check out from your accommodation in Chopta and drive to Sari Village, the starting point of the picturesque Deoria Tal Trek. From Sari, begin a short and pleasant uphill trek through dense forests of oak and rhododendron to reach the crystal-clear Deoria Tal Lake, one of Uttarakhand’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes. Surrounded by lush forests and majestic Himalayan peaks, the lake is renowned for its mirror-like reflection of the Chaukhamba Massif on clear days, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
Spend some time relaxing beside the tranquil lake, exploring the surrounding trails, and enjoying the peaceful Himalayan atmosphere before descending back to Sari Village. After completing the trek, begin your return drive to Rishikesh, passing through Ukhimath, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag. Along the way, witness the sacred confluences of the Mandakini, Alaknanda, and Bhagirathi rivers, along with picturesque mountain villages, terraced fields, and scenic valleys.
By evening, arrive in Rishikesh, marking the successful completion of your Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek with Deoria Tal. Return home with unforgettable memories of ancient temples, panoramic Himalayan views, pristine alpine meadows, and one of Uttarakhand’s most scenic trekking experiences.
Highlights of the Day:
• Trek to the beautiful Deoria Tal Lake from Sari Village
• Witness the spectacular reflection of Chaukhamba Peak in the lake (weather permitting)
• Explore one of Uttarakhand’s most scenic high-altitude lakes
• Scenic drive through Ukhimath, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag
• Enjoy beautiful views of the Garhwal Himalayas, river valleys, and traditional mountain villages
• Arrival in Rishikesh, concluding the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
Meals Included: Breakfast
Chopta - Tungnath Trek Cost Terms – Inclusions & Exclusions
• Accommodation in hotels/guest houses or alpine camps on a sharing basis in Chopta (as per the itinerary).
• All meals during the trek (usually from Day 1 dinner to Day 3 breakfast).
• Certified trek leader, experienced local guides, cooks, and support staff.
• Transportation between Rishikesh and Chopta (pickup & drop) by shared/private vehicle, including the Sari Village excursion for the Deoria Tal visit.
• Forest permits, entry fees, camping charges, and all necessary trekking permissions.
• Basic safety equipment including first-aid kit, oxygen cylinder, oximeter, and emergency medical support.
• Group safety equipment and technical gear (if required depending on weather and trail conditions).
• Assistance throughout the trek, including trek coordination and local support.
• Visit to Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Summit, and Deoria Tal Lake as per the itinerary.
• Any transportation cost to reach Rishikesh and the onward journey after the tour.
• Lunch on Day 1, lunch and dinner on Day 3, and any meals not specifically mentioned in the inclusions.
• Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, internet, snacks, bottled water, beverages, tips, and souvenirs.
• Travel insurance, medical insurance, emergency evacuation, hospitalization, and personal accident expenses.
• Personal trekking gear such as trekking shoes, trekking poles, backpacks, rainwear, jackets, gloves, gaiters, sunglasses, or any equipment not included in the package.
• Pony, porter, or mule charges for carrying personal luggage during the trek.
• Entry fees for cameras, video equipment, or optional sightseeing activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Expenses arising due to bad weather, roadblocks, landslides, natural calamities, flight/train delays, political disturbances, or any unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the organizer.
• Additional accommodation, transportation, or meals due to itinerary changes, early return, or trek extension requested by the participant.
• GST and any other applicable taxes, if not mentioned in the package cost.
• Anything not specifically mentioned under the Package Cost Inclusions section.
Chopta - Tungnath Trek Essentials – Complete Packing List
- 2–3 quick-dry T-shirts (preferably full-sleeve)
- 2 trekking pants (avoid jeans)
- 1 fleece jacket
- 1 down/padded jacket
- 1 thermal set (top and bottom)
- Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
- 4–5 pairs of socks (mix of woolen and synthetic)
- Warm cap/beanie and sun cap
- Waterproof gloves + fleece/wool gloves
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support
- Sandals/Crocs for campsite and river crossings
- Extra pair of comfortable camp footwear
- 50–60 L backpack with rain cover
- 15–20 L daypack (if using porter/offloading service)
- Trekking pole(s)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Dry bags or zip-lock bags for clothes/electronics
- Water bottles (2 L total capacity) or hydration bladder
- Power bank
- UV-protection sunglasses
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Lip balm
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes/toilet paper
- Toothbrush and basic toiletries
- Personal medicines and first-aid items
- ORS packets and energy bars/dry fruits
- Government photo ID
How To Reach Chopta - Tungnath Trek
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED)
• Distance from airport to Rishikesh: ~20–25 km | 45 minutes
• Regular flights operate from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities
• From airport, taxis and cabs are easily available to Rishikesh
• Nearest railway stations: Rishikesh Railway Station and Haridwar Junction
• Haridwar is better connected with major Indian cities
• From Haridwar to Rishikesh: ~25 km | 45–60 minutes by road
• Trains available from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Lucknow, and more
• Rishikesh is well connected via National Highways
• Delhi to Rishikesh: ~240 km | 6–7 hours
• Regular Volvo buses, government buses, and private taxis are available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate (Delhi)
• You can also drive or hire a private cab directly to Rishikesh
Chopta - Tungnath Trek FAQ's
What is the best time to do the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?
The best time for the trek is March to June for pleasant weather and blooming rhododendrons, and September to December for crystal-clear Himalayan views. Winter (December to February) is ideal for those who want to experience a snow trek.
How difficult is the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?
The trek is easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners, families, and experienced trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
How long is the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?
The trekking distance is approximately 15 km, including the round-trip trek to Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Summit, and Deoria Tal.
Is Tungnath Temple open throughout the year?
No. Tungnath Temple remains open from April/May to October/November, depending on weather conditions. During winter, the deity is shifted to Makkumath Village, and the temple remains closed due to heavy snowfall.
Can beginners climb Chandrashila Summit?
Yes. Chandrashila is considered one of the best summit treks for beginners. Although the final section is steeper than the rest of the trail, it is short and manageable for trekkers with basic fitness.
Which Himalayan peaks are visible from Chandrashila Summit?
On a clear day, the summit offers panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath Peak, Trishul, Bandarpoonch, Neelkanth, Kedar Dome, Kamet, and Nanda Ghunti.
Is Deoria Tal included in the Chopta Tungnath Trek itinerary?
Many trek operators include a visit to Deoria Tal as part of an extended 3-day itinerary. The lake is famous for its crystal-clear reflections of the Chaukhamba Massif and is one of Uttarakhand’s most photogenic destinations.
Can I experience snowfall on the Chopta Tungnath Trek?
Yes. Snowfall usually occurs between late December and February, turning the trail into one of Uttarakhand’s most popular winter trekking destinations.
Are mobile networks available in Chopta and Tungnath?
Mobile connectivity is available in Chopta, although the signal may be weak depending on the network provider. Connectivity becomes limited or unavailable near Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Summit, and parts of the trekking trail.
What makes the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek unique?
The trek combines spiritual significance, alpine trekking, panoramic Himalayan views, and a visit to Deoria Tal in a short itinerary. It is one of the few Himalayan treks where you can visit the world’s highest Shiva temple, summit Chandrashila Peak, and explore a pristine high-altitude lake in a single adventure.
₹6,499/-
₹5,499/-
Per Person
- Services Rishikesh to Rishikesh | Included Transport
- Complimentary cloakroom at base camp for safe storage.
- Pickup Location: Rishikesh
- Drop Location: Rishikesh Bus Station
- Pickup: 7:00 AM | Drop: 5:00–6:30 PM (traffic/river activity dependent)
- Keep a buffer day and arrive a day early to avoid delays due to traffic, weather, or local conditions.
- Booking Policy
- Cancellation Policy
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