Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Overview
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most rewarding short Himalayan adventures, combining breathtaking mountain scenery, spiritual significance, dense forests, alpine meadows, and a thrilling summit climb. Whether you’re a first-time trekker, a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or a devotee of Lord Shiva, this trek offers an unforgettable experience in every season.
Starting from the picturesque meadows of Chopta (2,680 m), the trail gradually climbs through ancient forests of oak, rhododendron, and deodar before reaching Tungnath Temple (3,680 m)—the highest Shiva temple in the world and one of the sacred Panch Kedar shrines. From Tungnath, the trail continues to the Chandrashila Summit (4,000 m / 13,123 ft), where trekkers are rewarded with one of the finest 360-degree panoramic views in the Indian Himalayas.
From the summit, you can witness majestic Himalayan peaks including Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Dome, Neelkanth, Bandarpoonch, and several other snow-clad giants, making the sunrise from Chandrashila one of the most spectacular experiences in Uttarakhand.
One of the biggest highlights of this trek is its accessibility. Unlike high-altitude expeditions that require extensive preparation, the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. The well-defined trail, gradual ascent, and relatively short trekking distance make it an ideal weekend Himalayan getaway.
Every season transforms the trail into a completely different experience. During spring (March–April), vibrant rhododendron flowers paint the forests in shades of red and pink. Summer (May–June) offers pleasant weather, lush green meadows, and crystal-clear mountain views. Autumn (September–November) is perfect for photographers due to its clear skies and exceptional visibility. Winter (December–February) blankets the entire region in snow, turning the trek into a magical winter adventure.
Apart from its natural beauty, the trek also carries deep mythological importance. According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas built the Tungnath Temple while seeking forgiveness from Lord Shiva after the Mahabharata war. The spiritual atmosphere, ancient stone architecture, and peaceful surroundings make the journey meaningful for both trekkers and pilgrims.
At Trektonic Adventures, we ensure that your trekking experience is safe, comfortable, and memorable. Our experienced trek leaders, local guides, hygienic meals, quality accommodations, and well-planned itinerary allow you to enjoy the Himalayas without worrying about logistics.
Whether you are looking for your first Himalayan trek, an adventurous weekend escape, breathtaking Himalayan photography, or a spiritual journey to the world’s highest Shiva temple, the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek promises an experience that stays with you long after the trek is over.
Why Choose Our Chopta Tungnath Trek Package?
✅ Highest Shiva Temple – Visit Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple and part of the sacred Panch Kedar circuit
✅ 360° Himalayan Views – Witness sunrise from Chandrashila Peak with views of Nanda Devi, Trishul & Chaukhamba
✅ Beginner Friendly – Easy to moderate difficulty; suitable for first-timers, families, and solo travelers
✅ All-Inclusive Package – Transport, meals, accommodation, permits, guide & safety gear included
✅ Year-Round Destination – Best snow trek in winter; rhododendron blooms in spring; crystal clear views in autumn
✅ Expert Local Guides – IMF-certified trek leaders with 10+ years of experience
Best Time for Chopta Tungnath Trek
Spring (March to May)
- Rhododendron forests in full bloom (red, pink, purple)
- Pleasant weather: 10°C to 20°C
- Clear views of Himalayan peaks
- Best for: Beginners, photographers, nature lovers
Summer (May to June)
- Escape the plains heat; cool mountain weather
- Day temperature: 15°C to 25°C
- Fully accessible trails
- Best for: Families, camping enthusiasts
Monsoon (July to August)
- Lush green landscapes, misty mountains
- Fewer crowds; peaceful trails
- Caution: Slippery trails, limited visibility
- Best for: Nature lovers, offbeat travelers
Autumn (September to November)
- Post-monsoon clarity – best mountain visibility of the year
- Dry trails, comfortable trekking
- Temperature: 8°C to 18°C
- Best for: Photographers, peak hunters
Winter (December to February)
- Snow Trek Experience – Fresh snow, frozen trails
- Temperature: -5°C to 10°C
- Temple closed, but trek route open till temple area
- Best for: Snow lovers, adventure seekers
Chopta Tungnath Trek Distance & Altitude
| Location | Altitude | Distance from Previous |
|---|---|---|
| Haridwar | 1,000 ft | Starting Point |
| Chopta (Base) | 8,500 ft | 210 km drive |
| Tungnath Temple | 12,073 ft | 5 km trek |
| Chandrashila Peak | 13,123 ft | 1.5 km trek |
| Deoriatal Lake | 7,999 ft | 2.5 km trek (Sari) |
Total Trek Distance: 13 km (round trip including Chandrashila)
History of Tungnath Temple – Panch Kedar
The Mahabharata Connection
Tungnath is one of the Panch Kedar temples, built by the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra war. According to legend, Lord Shiva took the form of a bull to avoid the Pandavas. His body parts appeared at five different locations:
- Hump: Kedarnath
- Arms: Tungnath
- Face: Rudranath
- Navel: Madhyamaheshwar
- Hair: Kalpeshwa
The temple was later rediscovered by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. The name “Tungnath” means “Lord of the Peaks.”
Chandrashila – The Moon Rock
Legend says Lord Rama meditated at Chandrashila after defeating Ravana. Some texts also mention that Ravana performed penance here to please Lord Shiva.
What to Pack for Chopta Tungnath Trek
Essential Gear:
- Backpack (50-60L) with rain cover
- Daypack (20L) for summit day
- Trekking shoes with ankle support & grip
- 2 pairs quick-dry trek pants
- 3-4 full-sleeve dry-fit t-shirts
- Thermal innerwear (top & bottom)
- Fleece jacket / Down jacket
- Waterproof rain jacket & poncho
- Woolen cap, sun cap, balaclava
- Warm gloves (waterproof)
- 3-4 pairs woolen socks + cotton socks
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, moisturizer
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottle (1L) + hydration bag
- Trekking pole (optional but recommended)
- Personal medical kit + ORS
- Original ID proof + 2 photocopies
Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Cost & Budget
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is one of the most affordable Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand, making it an excellent choice for beginners, students, solo travellers, families, and weekend adventure seekers. Whether you’re planning the trek independently or booking a guided package, understanding the estimated expenses can help you plan your trip more effectively.
If you’re travelling on your own, your total budget will depend on your mode of transport, accommodation preferences, meals, and any additional expenses such as local sightseeing or equipment rental.
Estimated Budget for a Self-Planned Trek
| Expense | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Transportation (Dehradun/Haridwar to Chopta & Return) | ₹1,200 – ₹2,500 |
| Accommodation (Hotel/Camps) | ₹800 – ₹2,500 per night |
| Meals & Refreshments | ₹500 – ₹1,000 |
| Local Transport & Miscellaneous Expenses | ₹500 – ₹1,000 |
| Estimated Total Budget | ₹3,000 – ₹6,500 Per Person |
Note: The above costs are approximate and may vary depending on the travel season, accommodation type, transportation mode, and availability.
Why Choose a Trek Package?
Planning everything yourself can take time and may increase overall costs. Choosing a professionally organized trek package ensures a hassle-free experience while allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey.
At Trektonic Adventures, our Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Package starts from just ₹5,500 per person, offering excellent value for money.
Our Trek Package Includes
- Comfortable accommodation in camps or hotels
- Nutritious vegetarian meals as per the itinerary
- Experienced Trek Leader and Local Guide
- All ground transportation (as per package inclusions)
- Basic first-aid support
- Trek coordination and trip management
With transparent pricing, experienced staff, and carefully planned logistics, Trektonic Adventures offers a safe, comfortable, and memorable trekking experience without the stress of arranging everything on your own.
Whether you’re travelling solo or with friends and family, booking a guided package is often the most convenient and cost-effective way to experience the beauty of Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Summit.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
At Trektonic Adventures, we understand that unexpected situations may affect your travel plans. Our cancellation policy is designed to be transparent and fair while helping us manage bookings, transportation, accommodation, permits, and other trek arrangements.
Please read the following policy carefully before confirming your booking.
Cancellation Charges
The applicable cancellation charges are based on the number of days before the trek departure date.
| Cancellation Before Departure | Cancellation Charges | Refund Eligibility |
|---|
| 30 Days or More | ₹1,500 per person (Processing Fee) | Remaining Amount Refundable |
| 21–29 Days | 25% of Trek Cost | Balance Refundable |
| 15–20 Days | 50% of Trek Cost | Balance Refundable |
| 8–14 Days | 75% of Trek Cost | Balance Refundable |
| Within 7 Days | 100% of Trek Cost | No Refund |
| No Show / Trek Started | 100% Retention | No Refund |
Booking Transfer Option
If you are unable to join the trek, you may request to transfer your booking to another person.
- Transfer requests must be made at least 7 days before departure.
- The replacement participant must provide all required documents.
- Any additional permit, transportation, or administrative charges will be payable by the customer.
- Booking transfers are subject to availability and approval.
Trek Credit (Future Booking Option)
Instead of cancelling your booking, you may request a Trek Credit Voucher, subject to approval.
- Valid for 12 months from the original departure date.
- Can be used for any eligible Trektonic Adventures trek.
- Voucher is non-transferable unless approved by the company.
- Any price difference between the original and new trek package must be paid by the customer.
Cancellation Due to Weather or Natural Conditions
Safety is always our highest priority.
If a trek is cancelled, postponed, or modified due to:
- Heavy snowfall
- Landslides
- Floods
- Road blockages
- Government restrictions
- Forest Department orders
- Natural disasters
- Any other force majeure event
Trektonic Adventures will arrange the best possible alternative.
Please note:
- Refunds cannot be claimed for costs already incurred, including transportation, accommodation, permits, logistics, and local operational expenses.
- Any refundable amount, if applicable, will be processed after deducting actual operational costs.
- Alternate dates or trek credits may be offered based on availability.
Cancellation Due to Medical Emergency
If you are unable to participate because of a genuine medical emergency before the trek begins:
- Inform us immediately with valid medical documentation.
- Requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- Trek credit or partial adjustment may be considered at the discretion of Trektonic Adventures.
- Refunds are not guaranteed for last-minute medical cancellations.
During the Trek
No refund will be provided if a participant:
- Leaves the trek voluntarily.
- Is unable to continue due to insufficient fitness.
- Is advised to descend by the trek leader for safety reasons.
- Misses transportation or scheduled departures.
- Violates trek rules or safety instructions.
Unused services such as accommodation, meals, transport, or activities are non-refundable.
Refund Processing Time
Approved refunds are generally processed within 7–10 business days.
Refunds will be credited to the original payment method or bank account provided by the customer.
Payment gateway charges, bank charges, and transaction fees (if applicable) are non-refundable.
Important Notes
Cancellation requests must be submitted via email or WhatsApp from the registered contact details.
The effective cancellation date will be the date on which Trektonic Adventures receives your written request.
Refund calculations are based on the total trek package cost.
Promotional offers, discounted bookings, group departures, and customized packages may have separate cancellation terms.
Trektonic Adventures reserves the right to modify this policy without prior notice whenever operational requirements demand.
Need Help?
If you have any questions regarding cancellations, rescheduling, refunds, or booking modifications, please contact the Trektonic Adventures Support Team before your departure. Our team will be happy to assist you with the best available solution.
Highlights of Chopta Tungnath Trek
- 🌸 Rhododendron Forests – Dense red & pink forests during spring
- 🏕️ Chopta Meadows – Known as "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand"
- ⛰️ Tungnath Temple – Ancient stone temple, highest Shiva shrine globally
- 🌄 Chandrashila Sunrise – Golden sunrise over 360° Himalayan panorama
- 🦅 Himalayan Monal – Spot the state bird of Uttarakhand
- 🏔️ Snow-Capped Peaks – Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedar Dome, Bandarpoonch
