Chopta Chandrashila Tungnath Trek 2025 - A Complete Guide

 

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most loved Himalayan trails, known for its scenic diversity, easy-to-moderate difficulty, and 360-degree summit views. From dense forests and peaceful meadows to the spiritual Tungnath Temple and the famous Chandrashila Peak, this trek delivers a strong blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Its short duration and year-round availability make it a top travel choice for beginners, families, and weekend explorers.

Why the Chopta Chandrashila Trek is Popular

Chopta, often called the “Mini Switzerland of India,” attracts travellers with its alpine meadows and serene atmosphere. The trek becomes even more rewarding as it combines:

• Beginner-friendly trail

• Beautiful sunrise and summit views

• Opportunity to visit Tungnath Temple

• Snow-covered paths in winter

• Forest trails inside the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

The entire experience feels like a compact yet high-impact Himalayan journey.

Tungnath Temple - A Key Highlight of the Trek

A major attraction of this trail is the ancient Tungnath Temple, situated at an altitude of 12,073 ft. Known as the highest Shiva temple in the world, it offers a peaceful spiritual ambiance in the middle of the mountains. The route to Tungnath is scenic with stone pathways, oak trees, rhododendron forests, and panoramic valley views.

Chandrashila Peak - The Perfect Summit Viewpoint

The last stretch from Tungnath to Chandrashila Peak (12,100 ft) is slightly steep but short. Once you reach the summit, you witness a spectacular 360-degree view of major Himalayan peaks like:

• Nanda Devi

• Chaukhamba

• Trishul

• Kedarnath Peak

• Bandarpunch Range

Sunrise from Chandrashila is a standout experience and one of the top reasons people choose this trek.

Best Time to Visit Chopta Chandrashila Trek

The trek is open for most months of the year, and each season offers a unique setting.

Spring (March–April)

• Rhododendron flowers in full bloom

• Pleasant temperature

• Great vegetation views

Summer (May–June)

• Comfortable climate

• Clear trails

• Ideal for beginners and families

Autumn (October–November)

• Sharpest mountain visibility

• Golden colours across the valley

• Peak trekking season

Winter (December–February)

• Snow-covered routes

• Magical white landscapes

• Perfect for snow-trek lovers

Trek Difficulty and Distance

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is graded easy to moderate, making it ideal for first-time trekkers.

• Chopta to Tungnath: ~3.5 km

• Tungnath to Chandrashila: ~1.5 km

The path is well-marked with stone steps, forest trails, and ridge walks. Winter trekkers should carry microspikes due to snow.

Nature, Forests & Wildlife

The trek lies inside the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rich Himalayan biodiversity. Trekkers often spot:

• Himalayan Monal

• Musk deer

• Barking deer

• Rhododendron forests

• Oak and deodar trees

This natural ecosystem adds a deep sense of calm and freshness throughout the trek.

Weather & Temperature Insights

• Summer: 8°C–18°C

• Autumn: 5°C–15°C

• Winter: –5°C–8°C

• Spring: 6°C–16°C

Layering is essential, especially during early mornings and the summit climb.

How to Reach Chopta

Reaching Chopta is easy and well-connected.

By Road

Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta
(Approx. 6–7 hours from Rishikesh)

By Train

Nearest railway stations: Haridwar and Rishikesh

By Air

Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Accommodation Options in Chopta

Travellers can choose from:

• Homestays

• Guesthouses

• Campsites

• Mountain lodges

These stays offer simple yet comfortable rooms, warm meals, and basic trekking support.

What to Pack for the Trek

• Good trekking shoes

• Warm clothes and thermals

• Waterproof jacket

• Gloves and woollen socks

• Cap/beanie

• Headlamp

• Water bottle + energy bars

• Microspikes (for winter)

Who Should Do This Trek?

This trek is ideal for:

• First-time trekkers

• Weekend travellers

• Nature lovers

• Students and corporate groups

• Snow-trek seekers

• Photographers

The short duration and rewarding summit make it a perfect introductory Himalayan trek.

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is a complete mountain experience packed with scenic landscapes, forest beauty, spiritual touch, and a spectacular summit view. Its easy accessibility and beginner-friendly trail design make it one of the most appealing treks in Uttarakhand. Whether you want a quick weekend escape or a memorable Himalayan adventure, this trek checks every box.