If you are searching for a Himalayan trek that perfectly balances spirituality, adventure, accessibility, and raw natural beauty, the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek is arguably the best all-rounder in Uttarakhand. In 2026, this trail continues to dominate search trends because it offers something that very few short treks can match—a sacred pilgrimage to the world’s highest Shiva temple (Tungnath), a thrilling summit climb to Chandrashila Peak, and a serene alpine lake experience at Deoria Tal, all within a compact, beginner-friendly itinerary.
Unlike high-altitude expeditions that demand weeks of preparation, this trek is accessible to first-timers, families, solo travelers, and even senior citizens with basic fitness. Whether you are chasing 360-degree Himalayan panoramas, planning a winter snow trek, or seeking a weekend spiritual getaway, this guide covers everything you need to plan your journey in 2026.
Ready to book? Explore our curated packages:
Trek Overview & Key Highlights {#trek-overview}
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Name | Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek |
| Location | Rudraprayag District, Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand |
| Base Village | Chopta (8,790 ft) / Sari Village (for Deoria Tal) |
| Highest Point | Chandrashila Summit (13,123 ft / 4,000 m) |
| Trek Distance | ~13 km (Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila round trip); ~33 km total with Deoria Tal |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Trek Duration | 3 Days (Chopta only) / 5 Days (with Deoria Tal) |
| Nearest Railway | Rishikesh / Haridwar |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun |
Top Highlights You Cannot Miss
- Tungnath Temple (12,073 ft) — The highest Shiva temple on Earth and one of the revered Panch Kedar shrines. According to mythology, the Pandavas built this temple after the Mahabharata war, and it was later rediscovered by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
- Chandrashila Summit (13,123 ft) — A steep but rewarding 1.5 km climb from Tungnath that opens up to a 360-degree panoramic view of over 25 Himalayan peaks including Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Dome, Neelkanth, and Bandarpoonch. The sunrise from here is legendary.
- Deoria Tal (7,998 ft) — A pristine alpine lake near Sari village, famous for the mirror-like reflection of the Chaukhamba massif on its still waters at sunrise.
- Rohini Bugyal — A hidden alpine meadow connecting Deoria Tal to Chopta, blanketed with rhododendrons in spring and offering complete solitude away from the main trail.
- Himalayan Biodiversity — The trail falls within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, giving you chances to spot the Himalayan Monal (Uttarakhand’s state bird), musk deer, and rare high-altitude flora.
Best Time to Visit in 2026 {#best-time}
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek is a year-round destination, but your experience will vary dramatically depending on the season. Here is a month-by-month breakdown to help you decide:
| Season | Months | Temperature | Experience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March–April | 5°C to 15°C | Rhododendron forests in full bloom (red, pink, white); patches of snow on upper slopes | Photographers, first-timers, nature lovers |
| Summer | May–June | 8°C to 20°C | Pleasant weather, fully accessible trails, lush green meadows | Families, camping enthusiasts, pilgrims |
| Monsoon | July–August | 10°C to 18°C | Lush landscapes but slippery trails, leeches, and cloud-covered peaks | Offbeat travelers (not recommended for beginners) |
| Autumn | Sept–Nov | 0°C to 15°C | Post-monsoon clarity — best mountain visibility of the year; dry trails | Peak chasers, photographers, serious trekkers |
| Winter | Dec–Feb | -5°C to 10°C | Full snow trek; magical white landscapes; temple closed but trek route open | Snow lovers, adventure seekers |
Our 2026 Recommendation
- For first-timers & families: March–June or September–November
- For snow trekking: January–February (check weather advisories)
- For rhododendrons: Late March to mid-April
Detailed Route & Altitude Profile {#route-profile}
Understanding the altitude progression is critical for acclimatization and safety. The trek follows a gradual ascent, which is why it remains beginner-friendly despite touching 13,000+ feet.
Altitude Chart
| Location | Altitude (Feet) | Altitude (Meters) | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rishikesh | 1,150 ft | 350 m | Pickup Point |
| Sari Village | 6,600 ft | 2,012 m | Deoria Tal Trek Base |
| Deoria Tal | 7,998 ft | 2,438 m | Lake & Camping |
| Chopta / Baniyakund | 8,790 ft | 2,680 m | Main Trek Base Camp |
| Tungnath Temple | 12,073 ft | 3,680 m | Highest Shiva Temple |
| Chandrashila Summit | 13,123 ft | 4,000 m | Summit & 360° Views |
Elevation Gain Breakdown
| Route Segment | Distance | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Sari → Deoria Tal | 2.5 km (trek) | +1,400 ft |
| Deoria Tal → Chopta (via Rohini Bugyal) | 14 km (trek) | +800 ft |
| Chopta → Tungnath Temple | 3.5 km (trek) | +3,283 ft |
| Tungnath → Chandrashila Summit | 1.5 km (trek) | +1,050 ft |
Elevation Gain Breakdown
| Route Segment | Distance | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Sari → Deoria Tal | 2.5 km (trek) | +1,400 ft |
| Deoria Tal → Chopta (via Rohini Bugyal) | 14 km (trek) | +800 ft |
| Chopta → Tungnath Temple | 3.5 km (trek) | +3,283 ft |
| Tungnath → Chandrashila Summit | 1.5 km (trek) | +1,050 ft |
Trail Description
| Route Segment | Distance | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Sari → Deoria Tal | 2.5 km (trek) | +1,400 ft |
| Deoria Tal → Chopta (via Rohini Bugyal) | 14 km (trek) | +800 ft |
| Chopta → Tungnath Temple | 3.5 km (trek) | +3,283 ft |
| Tungnath → Chandrashila Summit | 1.5 km (trek) | +1,050 ft |
Complete Day-Wise Itinerary {#itinerary}
Option A: 3-Day Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek (Express)
Ideal for: Weekend travelers, beginners, pilgrims, and those short on time.
Day 1: Rishikesh → Chopta (Drive: 210 km / 7–8 hrs)
- 6:00 AM: Pickup from Rishikesh/Haridwar
- Drive via Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath
- En route: Witness the confluence of Alaknanda & Bhagirathi at Devprayag
- 3:00–4:00 PM: Arrive at Chopta / Baniyakund
- Check into Swiss camps or guesthouse
- Evening: Explore Chopta meadows, acclimatization walk
- Dinner and overnight stay
Day 2: Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Chopta (Trek: 10 km / 6–7 hrs)
- 4:00 AM: Early wake-up call
- 5:00 AM: Start trek from Chopta (carry packed breakfast)
- 7:30–8:00 AM: Reach Tungnath Temple — explore and rest
- 8:30 AM: Begin ascent to Chandrashila Summit
- 9:30 AM: Summit Chandrashila — witness the magical sunrise over the Himalayas
- 10:30 AM: Begin descent
- 1:00–2:00 PM: Back at Chopta base camp
- Lunch, rest, and evening bonfire
- Overnight stay at Chopta
Day 3: Chopta → Rishikesh (Drive: 210 km / 7–8 hrs)
- 7:00 AM: Breakfast
- 8:00 AM: Depart for Rishikesh
- 4:00–5:00 PM: Arrive at Rishikesh
- Trip concludes
Book this package: Chopta Tungnath Trek 3D/2N
Option B: 5-Day Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek (Complete Circuit)
Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, trekkers seeking a complete Himalayan experience.
Day 1: Rishikesh → Sari Village → Deoria Tal (Drive: 190 km / 6–7 hrs + Trek: 2.5 km / 1–2 hrs)
- 6:00 AM: Pickup from Rishikesh
- Drive along the Ganga, Alaknanda, and Mandakini rivers
- 1:00 PM: Reach Sari Village — lunch at a local homestay
- 2:30 PM: Begin trek to Deoria Tal
- 4:00 PM: Arrive at Deoria Tal — set up camp
- Evening: Sunset views and reflection photography of Chaukhamba
- Dinner and overnight camping at Deoria Tal
Day 2: Deoria Tal → Rohini Bugyal → Chopta (Trek: 14 km / 5–6 hrs)
- 6:00 AM: Sunrise at Deoria Tal (do not miss the reflections!)
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast and begin trek
- Trek through dense rhododendron and oak forests
- Cross Rohini Bugyal — a serene alpine meadow
- 2:00–3:00 PM: Reach Chopta / Baniyakund
- Evening: Relax at base camp, enjoy mountain views
- Overnight stay at Chopta
Day 3: Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Chopta (Trek: 10 km / 6–7 hrs)
- 4:00 AM: Wake up, light breakfast
- 5:00 AM: Begin summit trek
- 7:30 AM: Reach Tungnath Temple
- 9:00 AM: Summit Chandrashila Peak — 360° Himalayan views
- 10:30 AM: Descend to Tungnath, then back to Chopta
- Afternoon: Rest and explore Chopta meadows
- Overnight stay at Chopta
Day 4: Chopta → Sari → Rishikesh (Drive: 200 km / 7–8 hrs)
- Leisurely breakfast
- Optional: Short nature walk around Chopta
- 9:00 AM: Drive back via Ukhimath and Rudraprayag
- 5:00–6:00 PM: Arrive at Rishikesh
Day 5: Buffer / Rishikesh Exploration (Optional)
- For Delhi departure packages, this day includes return Volvo journey
- Optional: River rafting, Laxman Jhula, or local sightseeing in Rishikesh
Book this package: Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek 5D/4N | Chopta Chandrashila Trek
How to Reach Chopta / Sari Village {#how-to-reach}
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (21 km from Rishikesh)
- From the airport, take a taxi/bus to Rishikesh or Haridwar
By Train
- Nearest Railway Stations: Haridwar / Rishikesh
- Both are well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities
- Overnight trains from Delhi (like Nanda Devi Express, Dehradun Shatabdi) are popular options
By Road (The Final Leg)
From Rishikesh/Haridwar, you have two main routes:
- Leisurely breakfast
- Optional: Short nature walk around Chopta
- 9:00 AM: Drive back via Ukhimath and Rudraprayag
- 5:00–6:00 PM: Arrive at Rishikesh
| Route | Path | Road Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Route 1 (Via Rudraprayag) | Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Sari/Chopta | Good; most commonly used |
| Route 2 (Via Gopeshwar) | Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Gopeshwar → Mandal → Chopta |
- Rishikesh to Chopta: ~210 km (7–8 hours)
- Rishikesh to Sari Village: ~190 km (6–7 hours)
- Ukhimath to Sari: 12–13 km (shared jeeps available)
- Ukhimath to Chopta: ~30 km (shared jeeps/taxis available)
Pro Tip: There is no direct bus to Chopta. Most travelers break the journey at Rudraprayag or Ukhimath. Booking a guided package with transport included eliminates this hassle entirely.
Budget Breakdown: DIY vs. Guided Package {#budget}
One of the most searched queries about this trek is the cost. Here is a transparent breakdown for 2026.
DIY (Self-Planned) Budget Per Person
| Expense Category | Approximate Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Transport (Rishikesh ↔ Chopta, shared/private) | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
| Accommodation (Camps/Guesthouse, 2–3 nights) | ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 |
| Meals (Breakfast, Dinner, Packed Lunch) | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 |
| Forest Entry / Permits | ₹150 – ₹300 |
| Local Guide (optional but recommended) | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 |
| Equipment Rental (poles, microspikes in winter) | ₹300 – ₹800 |
| Miscellaneous (snacks, tips, emergency) | ₹500 – ₹1,000 |
| Total DIY Budget | ₹5,000 – ₹13,000 |
Guided Package with Trektonic Adventures
| Package | Duration | Price (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Chopta Tungnath Trek (Rishikesh to Rishikesh) | 3D/2N | Starting at ₹5,999 + GST |
| Chopta Chandrashila Trek (Rishikesh to Rishikesh) | 3D/2N | Starting at ₹5,999 + GST |
| Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila + Deoria Tal | 5D/4N | Starting at ₹9,999 + GST |
| Delhi to Delhi Package | 5D/4N | Starting at ₹7,999 + GST |
What Our Packages Include:
- ✅ All ground transport (Rishikesh/Delhi pickup and drop)
- ✅ Accommodation (Swiss tents / guesthouses)
- ✅ All vegetarian meals (Breakfast, Dinner, Packed Lunch)
- ✅ IMF-certified trek leader & local guide
- ✅ Forest permits & entry fees
- ✅ Safety equipment (first aid, oximeter, emergency oxygen)
- ✅ Trekking pole rental (on select packages)
Group Discounts: 4+ people — ₹500 off per person | Early Bird (30 days advance) — ₹300 off
From Rishikesh/Haridwar, you have two main routes:
Travel Tips, Safety & Responsible Trekking {#travel-tips}
Acclimatization & Altitude Safety
- The summit is at 13,123 ft. While the trek is beginner-friendly, altitude can affect some people.
- Spend a night at Chopta (8,790 ft) before attempting the summit.
- Stay hydrated — drink small sips frequently.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking at least 48 hours before the trek.
- Inform your trek leader immediately if you experience headache, dizziness, or nausea.
Trail Safety
- The trail from Chopta to Tungnath is well-marked, but the Chandrashila section can be slippery in snow.
- Start early (by 5:00 AM) to reach the summit for sunrise and avoid afternoon weather changes.
- Do not trek in the dark without a guide.
- Mobile network is patchy — Jio and BSNL work best at select spots.
Temple Etiquette
- Dress modestly when visiting Tungnath Temple.
- Remove shoes before entering the inner sanctum.
- Photography may be restricted inside the sanctum.
- Do not carry meat, alcohol, or leather products near the temple premises.
Leave No Trace
- Carry all plastic waste back with you.
- Use reusable water bottles; avoid single-use plastic.
- Do not feed wild animals or play loud music.
- Stay on designated trails to protect fragile alpine meadows.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) {#faqs}
Is the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is graded Easy to Moderate. The well-paved trail, gradual ascent, and short daily distances make it one of the best beginner treks in the Indian Himalayas. Basic fitness (ability to walk 5–6 km comfortably) is sufficient.
Can I do this trek in winter?
Absolutely. Winter (December–February) transforms the trail into a magical snow trek. The Tungnath Temple is closed during this period, but the trek route remains open till the temple premises and Chandrashila. Proper winter gear (thermals, down jacket, microspikes) is essential.
What is the total trekking distance?
- Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Chopta: ~10–13 km round trip
- Sari → Deoria Tal: 2.5 km one way
- Deoria Tal → Chopta (via Rohini Bugyal): ~14 km
- Total circuit distance: ~30–33 km over 5 days
Is a guide necessary?
For the Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila section, the trail is well-marked, and experienced trekkers can manage independently. However, for the Deoria Tal to Chopta route via Rohini Bugyal, a local guide is strongly recommended as the forest trails can be confusing. For safety, permits, and logistics, a guided package is always advisable.
What peaks are visible from Chandrashila Summit?
On a clear day, you can see Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Dome, Neelkanth, Bandarpoonch, Nanda Ghunti, and several other Garhwal Himalayan peaks.
Are there washroom facilities on the trail?
Basic toilet facilities are available at Tungnath Temple and near Chopta base. On the Deoria Tal trail and Rohini Bugyal, facilities are minimal. Carry toilet paper and a small trowel for emergencies.
Can children and senior citizens do this trek?
Yes, children above 8–10 years and fit senior citizens regularly complete this trek. The key is to walk slowly, take breaks, and acclimatize properly.
Final Thoughts: Why Book Your 2026 Trek with Trektonic Adventures?
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek is more than just a trail—it is a journey through ancient mythology, pristine forests, and some of the finest summit views in Uttarakhand. Whether you are a solo traveler looking for your first Himalayan experience, a family planning a summer escape, or a group of friends chasing a winter snow adventure, this trek delivers on every front.
At Trektonic Adventures, we take care of every detail—safe transport, hygienic meals, comfortable stays, certified guides, and 24/7 support—so you can focus on what truly matters: the mountains.
Ready to Trek?
Have questions? WhatsApp us or drop an email. Let’s make your 2026 Himalayan adventure unforgettable!
