Region
Uttarakhand
Trek Grade
Moderate
Trek Distance
approx. 25 km
Highest Altitude
~3,690 m
Overview
The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of the most scenic short treks in Uttarakhand, offering breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedar Dome. The trail passes through lush meadows, dense rhododendron and oak forests, and leads to Tungnath Temple (the highest Shiva temple in the world), before reaching the Chandrashila Summit at 3,690 m. It is considered a perfect trek for beginners and nature lovers, combining spirituality, culture, and adventure in just a few days.
Short Itinerary – (4D/3N)
Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh/Haridwar to Chopta (approx. 200 km / 7–8 hrs). Overnight stay in guesthouse/camps.
Day 2: Trek from Chopta to Tungnath Temple (3.5 km), then to Chandrashila Summit (1.5 km). Return to Chopta.
Day 3: Local exploration in Chopta meadows or visit nearby Deoria Tal Lake.
Day 4: Drive back from Chopta to Rishikesh/Haridwar.
Detailed Itinerary
Start early morning from Haridwar/Rishikesh and drive through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath along the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. Enjoy stunning mountain roads, river valleys, and small Himalayan settlements en route. Arrive at Chopta (2,680 m) by evening, a beautiful meadow also known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.” Check-in at your campsite/guesthouse, rest, and prepare for the trek ahead.
Begin your trek early morning from Chopta. The trail ascends gradually through forests and meadows before reaching Tungnath Temple (3.5 km), the highest Shiva temple in the world. After offering prayers, continue the steep climb to the Chandrashila Summit (1.5 km). From the top, witness breathtaking 360° views of Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath Dome. Descend back to Chopta for overnight stay.
After breakfast, drive to Sari village (about 20 km) and trek to Deoria Tal Lake (2.5 km), a serene alpine lake known for its reflections of Chaukhamba peaks. Spend some time exploring and enjoying the natural beauty before descending back to Sari and returning to Chopta. Relax for the evening in your campsite/guesthouse.
After breakfast, drive back via the same scenic route. Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh by evening with beautiful memories of the trek and spiritual Himalayan journey.
After breakfast, start the drive back to Dehradun or Rishikesh, passing through small Himalayan towns and scenic valleys. Reach by evening. Overnight stay in hotel or proceed for onward travel.
After breakfast, conclude the trek. Depart for your onward journey with unforgettable memories of the Kedarkantha snow trek.
Inclusions – Everything We Take Care Of
- Accommodation in guesthouses and tents at Base Camp (triple/quad sharing)
- All vegetarian meals during trek days (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Transportation (if arranged)
- Qualified trek leader and support staff (including cook and helpers)
- Trekking permits and park entry fees, if applicable
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen support
Exclusions – What’s Not Included?
- Travel to/from Dehradun or Rishikesh (starting point)
- Meals during transit and snacks/beverages not mentioned
- Personal expenses: tips, phone calls, laundry, etc.
- Porter or mule charges for personal luggage
- Travel insurance, evacuation, or medical expenses
- Any items not mentioned in inclusions
FAQs – We’ve Got All Your Questions Covered!
Network is patchy in Chopta and mostly unavailable during the trek. BSNL and Jio work at some spots.
Basic fitness is sufficient. Regular walking/jogging for a few weeks before the trek is recommended.
In summer, daytime temperatures are pleasant (12–18°C) but nights can drop to 0–5°C. In winter, temperatures can fall below freezing (-5 to -10°C).
March to June (spring-summer) for clear skies and flowers, and September to December (autumn-winter) for snow and crisp mountain views.
Yes, it is an easy-to-moderate trek and perfect for beginners, families, and even first-time trekkers.
2 sep to 30 sep
Trek Details
- Trek Distance: ~10–15 km (round trek to Chandrashila)
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Highest Altitude: 3,690 m (Chandrashila Summit)
- Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate
- Best Season: March–June, September–December
Trek Highlights
- Summit climb to Chandrashila Peak (3,690 m) with panoramic 360° views
- Visit to Tungnath Temple – the highest Shiva temple in the world
- Breathtaking vistas of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, and Bandarpunch ranges
- Alpine meadows, rhododendron & oak forests, and rich birdlife
- Optional exploration of Deoria Tal Lake, famous for its mirror-like reflections of Himalayan peaks
- Perfect for beginners and weekend trekkers with a mix of nature, culture, and spirituality
Route & Region
- Route: Rishikesh/Haridwar → Chopta → Tungnath Temple → Chandrashila Summit → Chopta → Deoria Tal (optional) → Rishikesh/Haridwar
- Region: Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand (Garhwal Himalayas)