Chopta Chandrashila Trek – The Complete Himalayan Adventure Guide
Nestled in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarakhand, the Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of India’s most rewarding and accessible Himalayan treks. Often called the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Chopta serves as the gateway to two iconic destinations — the sacred Tungnath Temple (world’s highest Shiva temple at 12,073 ft) and the majestic Chandrashila Summit (13,123 ft), offering a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan giants including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedar Dome.
Whether you are a first-time trekker, a spiritual seeker, a photography enthusiast, or a family looking for a safe mountain getaway, this trek delivers an unforgettable blend of adventure, mythology, and natural beauty all within a compact 3 to 5-day itinerary.
Why Choose Chopta Chandrashila Trek?
1. World’s Highest Shiva Temple – Tungnath
Tungnath is one of the revered Panch Kedar temples, believed to have been built by the Pandavas after the Mahabharata war. At 3,680 meters (12,073 ft), it holds the distinction of being the highest Shiva temple in the world. The ancient stone architecture, surrounded by snow-clad peaks, creates a divine atmosphere that touches every visitor’s soul.
2. 360° Himalayan Panorama from Chandrashila Summit
The final ascent to Chandrashila Peak (3,960 m / 13,123 ft) is steep but incredibly rewarding. From the summit, you witness an unobstructed 360-degree view of over 25 Himalayan peaks. The sunrise from Chandrashila is legendary — as the first golden rays hit Nanda Devi and Trishul, the sky transforms into a canvas of orange, pink, and gold.
3. Perfect for Beginners & Families
Unlike high-altitude treks that demand extreme fitness, the Chopta Chandrashila trek is graded Easy to Moderate. The trail is well-paved with stone steps, clearly marked, and doesn’t require technical climbing skills. Families with children, senior citizens, and solo travelers regularly complete this trek comfortably.
4. Year-Round Trekking Destination
- Spring (March–June): Rhododendron forests bloom in vibrant red and pink
- Summer: Pleasant weather with clear mountain views
- Autumn (September–November): Crystal-clear visibility, best for photography
- Winter (December–February): Snow-covered trails, perfect for snow trekking
5. Rich Biodiversity & Bird Watching
The trail passes through dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep your eyes peeled for the Himalayan Monal (Uttarakhand’s state bird), musk deer, and rare mountain flora.
Chopta Chandrashila Trek Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information | |
|---|---|---|
| Trek Duration | 3 Days / 2 Nights (Standard) or 5 Days / 4 Nights (with Deoriatal) | |
| Trek Distance | ~10 km round trip (Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Chopta) | |
| Maximum Altitude | 13,123 ft (Chandrashila Summit) | |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate | |
| Starting Point | Chopta (8,790 ft) / Baniyakund | |
| Pickup Points | Rishikesh / Haridwar / Delhi | |
| Best Time | March–June & September–November (All year for experienced trekkers) | |
| Temperature | Summer: 8°C to 20°C | Winter: -5°C to 10°C |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (21 km from Rishikesh) | |
| Nearest Railway | Rishikesh / Haridwar | |
| Region | Rudraprayag, Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand |
Extended Itinerary – 5 Days / 4 Nights (With Deoriatal Lake)
For trekkers wanting a more immersive Himalayan experience, we recommend adding Deoriatal Lake a pristine alpine lake reflecting the Chaukhamba peaks.
| Day | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Delhi/Rishikesh → Sari Village | Drive + Trek to Deoriatal (2,438 m) |
| Day 2 | Deoriatal → Rohini Bugyal → Baniyakund | 8 km trek through rhododendron forests |
| Day 3 | Baniyakund → Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila | Summit day |
| Day 4 | Chopta → Sari → Rishikesh | Drive back |
| Day 5 | Buffer/Exploration Day | Optional Rishikesh sightseeing |
Chopta Chandrashila Trek Cost & Package Options
Trektonic Adventures offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Choose the package that suits you:
Package 1: Chopta Chandrashila 3D/2N (Rishikesh to Rishikesh)
| Inclusions | Price |
|---|---|
| Transport (Rishikesh–Chopta–Rishikesh) | ₹5,999 per person |
| Accommodation (Swiss tents/Guest house) | + 5% GST |
| All meals (Veg) — Breakfast, Dinner, Packed Lunch | |
| Certified Trek Leader & Local Guide | |
| Forest Permits & Entry Fees | |
| Safety Equipment (First Aid, Oximeter) | |
| Group Discount: 4+ people — ₹500 off per person |
Chopta Chandrashila 3D/2N (Delhi to Delhi)
| Inclusions | Price |
|---|---|
| Volvo/Tempo Traveler from Delhi | ₹7,999 per person |
| All inclusions from Package 1 | + 5% GST |
| Early Bird Offer: Book 30 days advance — ₹300 off |
Package 3: Chopta Chandrashila + Deoriatal 5D/4N
| Inclusions | Price |
|---|---|
| Complete 5-day itinerary | ₹9,999 per person |
| All transport, stay, meals, permits, guides | + 5% GST |
| Free: Trekking pole rental |
Best Time to Visit Chopta Chandrashila Trek
| Season | Months | Weather | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March–April | 5°C to 15°C | Best for rhododendron blooms — entire trail turns red & pink |
| Summer | May–June | 8°C to 20°C | Pleasant weather, clear views, ideal for families |
| Monsoon | July–August | 10°C to 18°C | Lush green but slippery trails — not recommended |
| Autumn | September–November | 0°C to 15°C | Best visibility, post-monsoon clarity, photographer’s paradise |
| Winter | December–February | -5°C to 10°C | Snow trekking, magical white landscapes, challenging but beautiful |
💡 Pro Tip: For the best balance of good weather and clear views, March–June and September–November are ideal. For snow lovers, January–February offers the most magical experience.
Why Book Chopta Chandrashila Trek with Trektonic Adventures?
🏔️ Local Expertise: Based in Dehradun, we know these mountains like the back of our hand
🏔️ Best Price Guarantee: No hidden costs, transparent pricing
🏔️ Small Groups: Personalized attention, not crowded batches
🏔️ Experienced Guides: Certified, local, and passionate about the Himalayas
🏔️ Quality Equipment: High-grade tents, sleeping bags, and safety gear
🏔️ Flexible Itineraries: Customize as per your needs
🏔️ 24/7 Support: We’re with you from booking to return
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
