Overview of Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand, offering a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and breathtaking mountain views. Nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, this trek takes you through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and ancient pilgrimage routes leading to Tungnath Temple — the highest Shiva temple in the world.
Starting from Chopta at 8,500 feet, trekkers gradually ascend towards Tungnath Temple at 12,073 feet, and further continue to the majestic Chandrashila Peak at 13,123 feet. Unlike many long Himalayan expeditions, the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek provides stunning Himalayan views within a short trekking distance, making it ideal for first-time trekkers, families, solo travelers, and spiritual seekers.
Throughout the journey, you will witness magnificent views of Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Dome, Bandarpoonch, and several other snow-covered peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Looking for a shorter version of this trek? Check out our dedicated Chopta Tungnath Trek package for a compact spiritual and adventure experience.
Why Choose the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is ideal for travelers seeking a short Himalayan adventure without compromising on scenic beauty. Here are the top reasons why thousands of trekkers choose this trail every year:
🛕 Visit Tungnath Temple – Highest Shiva Temple in the World
One of the biggest attractions of this trek is the sacred Tungnath Temple, which is part of the famous Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit. The temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and holds immense religious significance among devotees of Lord Shiva.
🌄 Experience the Chandrashila Summit Trek
The final climb to Chandrashila Peak rewards trekkers with a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the Garhwal Himalayas. Sunrise from Chandrashila is considered one of the most beautiful mountain experiences in India.
👨👩👧 Perfect Trek for Beginners
The Chopta Tungnath Trek is categorized as an easy to moderate trek, making it suitable for beginners, families, solo travelers, and first-time trekkers. Basic fitness and stamina are sufficient to complete the trek comfortably.
🌸 Explore Beautiful Forests and Meadows
The trekking route passes through dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. During spring, the trail transforms into a colorful landscape filled with blooming rhododendron flowers, making it one of the most scenic treks in Uttarakhand.
🏔️ Stunning Himalayan Peak Views
Enjoy uninterrupted views of Chaukhamba Peak, Nanda Devi Peak, Trishul Peak, Kedar Dome, Bandarpoonch Peak, and Nanda Ghunti Peak — a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
🐦 Rich Himalayan Wildlife & Bird Watching
The forests around Chopta are home to diverse Himalayan wildlife and bird species. Birdwatchers often visit the region to spot the colorful Himalayan Monal, the official state bird of Uttarakhand.
Love winter treks? Explore our Kedarkantha Winter Trek — another beginner-friendly snow trek in Uttarakhand with mesmerizing summit views.
Trek Distance & Altitude Chart
| Location | Altitude (ft) | Distance from Previous Point |
|---|---|---|
| Chopta Base | 8,500 ft | — (Trek Start Point) |
| Tungnath Temple | 12,073 ft | 5 km (Trek) |
| Chandrashila Peak | 13,123 ft | 1.5 km (Trek) |
Total Trek Distance (Round Trip): Approximately 13 km
The gradual altitude gain makes this trek comfortable for beginners while still offering the thrill of high-altitude trekking.
Best Time to Visit Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is a year-round destination in Uttarakhand, with every season offering a unique trekking experience. Whether you want to witness blooming rhododendron forests, lush green meadows, crystal-clear Himalayan views, or snow-covered trails, there is always a perfect time to plan your trek.
🌸 Spring (March to May) – Best for Rhododendrons
Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons to experience the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. The entire trekking trail comes alive with blooming rhododendron flowers, creating a colorful landscape of red, pink, and purple shades.
- Temperature: 10°C to 20°C (Daytime)
- Highlights: Blooming rhododendron forests, pleasant weather, clear views of Chaukhamba and Nanda Devi
- Best For: Beginners, families, photographers
☀️ Summer (May to June) – Best for Comfortable Trekking
Summer offers a refreshing escape with cool mountain weather and fresh Himalayan air. The trekking route remains fully accessible, and the clear skies provide breathtaking views.
- Temperature: 15°C to 25°C (Daytime)
- Highlights: Pleasant climate, green meadows, stunning mountain views, best for camping
- Best For: Families, beginner trekkers, camping enthusiasts
🌧️ Monsoon (July to August) – Best for Lush Greenery
The monsoon transforms Chopta into a lush green paradise. Forests become vibrant, waterfalls flow at full strength, and the surrounding landscapes look exceptionally fresh.
- Temperature: 12°C to 20°C (Daytime)
- Highlights: Lush green forests, fewer tourists, mist-covered landscapes
- Best For: Nature lovers, photographers (carry waterproof gear)
🍂 Autumn (September to November) – Best Overall Season
Autumn is widely considered the best time for the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. After the monsoon rains, the atmosphere becomes exceptionally clear, offering some of the most spectacular Himalayan views of the year.
- Temperature: 8°C to 18°C (Daytime)
- Highlights: Crystal-clear Himalayan views, dry and safe trails, excellent sunrise views from Chandrashila
- Best For: Photographers, adventure enthusiasts, peak visibility seekers
❄️ Winter (December to February) – Best for Snow Trek
Winter transforms the trek into one of the most beautiful snow treks in Uttarakhand. The entire region becomes covered in fresh snow, creating a magical Himalayan landscape.
- Temperature: -5°C to 10°C
- Highlights: Snow-covered forests, frozen trails, winter photography, less crowded
- Note: Tungnath Temple remains closed (Nov–Apr), but the trek remains open.
- Best For: Snow lovers, adventure seekers
Winter trek lover? Don’t miss our Kedarkantha Winter Trek — the most popular winter trek in Uttarakhand with guaranteed snow!
✅ Which is the Best Season?
March to June and September to November are considered the ideal months for the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. For snow lovers, December to February offers an unforgettable winter trekking experience.
Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Package Cost
Our Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Package is designed to offer maximum value with complete transparency. Below is a detailed breakdown of what is included and excluded in the package cost.
✅ Cost Includes
- Accommodation: Guesthouse or camp stay at Chopta (twin/triple sharing)
- Meals: All vegetarian meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, dinner)
- Guide & Trek Leader: Experienced and certified trekking guide
- Permits: All forest entry fees and required permits
- Safety Equipment: Basic first aid kit and safety gear
- Trek Briefing: Mandatory orientation and safety briefing
❌ Cost Excludes
- Personal Trekking Gear: Trekking shoes, jackets, backpack, etc.
- Travel to Base: Cost of reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh from your city
- Personal Expenses: Snacks, bottled water, tips, etc.
- Insurance: Travel insurance and emergency evacuation charges
- Porter/Mule Charges: For extra luggage (available on request at additional cost)
💰 Package Pricing
Contact us for the latest Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek package cost and early bird discounts for 2026!
We offer competitive pricing with no hidden charges. Group discounts available for 6+ trekkers.
Budget-friendly option available: Check our Chopta Tungnath Trek package for a more affordable 2-3 day itinerary.
What You Will See During the Trek
🌲 Rhododendron and Oak Forests
The trail passes through dense Himalayan forests filled with oak, pine, and rhododendron trees. During spring, these forests become one of the most beautiful attractions of the trek.
🏞️ Scenic Chopta Meadows
Known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand,” Chopta is famous for its rolling green meadows surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks.
🛕 Ancient Tungnath Temple
The sacred Tungnath Temple stands as one of the most significant religious landmarks in the Himalayas and attracts pilgrims from across India.
⛰️ Chandrashila Summit
The Chandrashila Summit Trek offers panoramic views of famous Himalayan peaks including Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpoonch, and Nanda Ghunti.
🦅 Himalayan Wildlife and Birds
Trekkers may spot the Himalayan Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand, along with several species of Himalayan birds and wildlife.
Must-Read Information (Network, ATM, Weather)
📱 Mobile Network
- Jio and BSNL work best in the region, but connectivity remains patchy
- No Wi-Fi available during the trek — enjoy the digital detox!
🏧 ATM
- Last reliable ATM is at Ukhimath
- Carry sufficient cash — card payments are not accepted in remote areas
🌡️ Weather Summary
Table
| Season | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Summer | 10°C – 20°C |
| Winter | -5°C – 10°C |
🛕 Temple Status
- Tungnath Temple is closed in winter (November – April)
- However, the trek remains open throughout the year
- Trekkers can still reach the temple area and continue to Chandrashila
🍛 Local Food
Authentic mountain flavors that keep you energized
Simple Garhwali meals — dal, roti, sabzi, rice
Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Highlights
- The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is one of the most scenic and rewarding treks in Uttarakhand. From ancient temples and snow-capped Himalayan peaks to lush forests and breathtaking sunrise views, this trek offers an unforgettable mountain experience for trekkers, photographers, pilgrims, and nature lovers.
- Tungnath Temple – The Highest Shiva Temple in the World One of the biggest attractions of the Chopta Tungnath Trek is the sacred Tungnath Temple, situated at an altitude of approximately 12,073 feet. It is the highest Shiva temple in the world and an important part of the revered Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit. The temple's ancient architecture, spiritual atmosphere, and stunning Himalayan backdrop make it a must-visit destination for devotees and trekkers alike.
- Chandrashila Peak – Spectacular Himalayan Sunrise Point The highlight of the Chandrashila Summit Trek is reaching Chandrashila Peak at an altitude of around 13,123 feet. From the summit, trekkers can witness breathtaking 360-degree views of the Garhwal Himalayas. Sunrise from Chandrashila is considered one of the most beautiful mountain experiences in India, offering panoramic views of Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Dome, and Bandarpoonch peaks.
- Beautiful Rhododendron Forests and Alpine Meadows The trekking route passes through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron trees. During spring, the trail becomes a vibrant landscape covered with blooming rhododendron flowers. The lush green meadows of Chopta, often called the "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand," provide stunning scenery throughout the trek.
- Stunning Views of Himalayan Peaks The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek offers uninterrupted views of some of the most famous peaks in the Indian Himalayas. Trekkers can enjoy spectacular views of: Chaukhamba Peak Nanda Devi Peak Trishul Peak Kedar Dome Bandarpoonch Peak Nanda Ghunti Peak These panoramic mountain vistas make the trek a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
- Rich Himalayan Wildlife and Bird Watching The forests around Chopta are home to diverse Himalayan wildlife and bird species. Birdwatchers often visit the region to spot the colorful Himalayan Monal, the official state bird of Uttarakhand. Other bird species, including Himalayan griffons, eagles, and pheasants, can also be seen along the trekking route.
- Beginner-Friendly Himalayan Trek One of the reasons why the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Package is so popular is its accessibility for beginners. The trail is well-defined, the trekking distance is manageable, and the elevation gain is gradual compared to many other Himalayan treks. This makes it an ideal choice for first-time trekkers, families, students, and solo travelers.
- Perfect Blend of Adventure and Spirituality Unlike many trekking destinations, the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek combines adventure with spirituality. Trekkers not only experience beautiful landscapes and mountain trails but also get the opportunity to visit the sacred Tungnath Temple and connect with the rich cultural heritage of the Himalayas.
