About Chopta–Tungnath Trek
The Chopta–Tungnath trek is one of the most scenic and spiritually significant short treks in Uttarakhand. Chopta, often called the “Mini Switzerland of India,” lies in the Rudraprayag district at an altitude of 8,790 ft. The trek leads to Tungnath Temple (12,073 ft), the highest Shiva temple in the world, and continues further up to Chandrashila Peak (13,123 ft), offering panoramic Himalayan views.
Trek Duration & Distance
Trek Distance: 5 km (Chopta to Tungnath), +1.5 km to Chandrashila
Trek Duration: 2–3 days (short trek)
Trek Difficulty: Easy to moderate; suitable for beginners
Tungnath Highlights
- Tungnath Temple: Highest Shiva temple in the world.
- Chandrashila Peak: Breathtaking sunrise views.
- Scenic alpine meadows and rhododendron forests.
- Rich birdlife, including the Himalayan Monal (state bird of Uttarakhand).
- Easy accessibility, beginner-friendly trek.
Day-Wise chopta tungnath trek Itinerary
- Drive via Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath.
- Stay in Chopta (guesthouse/tents)
- Option to camp or return to Chopta.
- Trek distance: 5 km (3–4 hours).
- Visit the ancient Tungnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
- Early morning trek (1.5 km, steep climb).
- Sunrise view with 360° Himalayan panorama – Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Bandarpoonch.
- Descend back to Chopta and return journey.
Includes/Excludes Tungnath
Cost Includes Tungnath
- Accommodation (guesthouse/camp).
- Meals during trek (veg).
- Guide and trek leader.
- Permits and forest entry fees.
- Basic safety equipment (first aid).
Cost Excludes Tungnath
- Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, backpack).
- Travel cost to/from Haridwar or Rishikesh.
- Personal expenses (snacks, bottled water, tips).
- Insurance and emergency evacuation.
- Porter/mule charges for extra luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, inside Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Nearest railway station: Haridwar/Rishikesh.
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun.
- From Rishikesh, 200 km drive via Ukhimath to Chopta.
2–3 days (short trek).
Easy to moderate; beginners can do it with basic fitness.
6.5 km total (5 km to Tungnath + 1.5 km to Chandrashila).
Yes, one of the best beginner-friendly treks in Uttarakhand.
- Spring (March–May): Rhododendrons in bloom.
- Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear mountain views.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow trek experience.
- Tungnath: Highest Shiva temple in the world.
- Chandrashila: Sunrise and 360° Himalayan views.
- Scenic meadows and forests.
Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Bandarpoonch.
At guesthouses in Chopta.
Map chopta
What Should You Pack?
Clothes: Warm layers, thermals, padded jacket, gloves, woolen cap, socks.
Shoes: Trekking shoes with good grip.
Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, trekking pole, headlamp.
Other Essentials: Raincoat, toiletries, personal medicines, ID proof.
Safety Tips
- Stay on the marked trail; avoid shortcuts.
- Carry water to stay hydrated.
- In winter, trails can be slippery—use proper trekking shoes.
- Start early for Chandrashila sunrise to return before noon.
- Follow your guide’s instructions.
How to Reach Chopta–Tungnath Trek
Step 1: Reach Haridwar or Rishikesh (Base City)
By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 220 km from Chopta).
By Train: Haridwar and Rishikesh railway stations are well connected to Delhi and other major cities.
By Bus/Car: Overnight buses and taxis are available from Delhi → Rishikesh/Haridwar (distance ~240 km, 6–7 hrs).
Step 2: Rishikesh/Haridwar → Chopta (Trek Start Point)
Distance: 200–225 km
Travel Time: 7–8 hours by road
Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta
Transport Options:
Shared jeeps/taxis from Rishikesh/Haridwar
Private cabs
Self-drive car/bike
Step 3: Start the Trek
Trek begins from Chopta Market area or nearby lodges.
From Chopta, trek 5 km to Tungnath Temple and then 1.5 km further to Chandrashila Peak.
In short: Delhi → Rishikesh/Haridwar → Chopta (by road) → Start Trek
Fitness & Preparation Guide
The trek is short but steep in sections.
Practice jogging/walking 3–4 km daily for stamina.
Stair climbing helps prepare for the ascent to Chandrashila.
Basic fitness is enough for most beginners.
Safety Tips
Stay on the marked trail; avoid shortcuts.
Carry water to stay hydrated.
In winter, trails can be slippery—use proper trekking shoes.
Start early for Chandrashila sunrise to return before noon.
Follow your guide’s instructions.
Must-Read Information
Mobile Network: Jio and BSNL work best but patchy.
ATM: Last reliable ATM at Ukhimath. Carry cash.
Weather:
Summer: 10°C–20°C
Winter: -5°C–10°C
Temple Status: Tungnath Temple is closed in winter (Nov–Apr), but trek remains open.
Local Food: Simple Garhwali meals (dal, roti, sabzi, rice).
Chopta–Tungnath Trek – Sample Food Menu
Breakfast: Paratha with curd/pickle OR poha/upma with tea/coffee
Packed Lunch (during trek): Roti–sabzi, boiled potato/egg, fruit
Evening Snacks: Tea/coffee with biscuits, pakora, or Maggi
Dinner: Rice, roti, dal, seasonal vegetable curry, soup, and dessert (like kheer/halwa)
Meals are simple, hot, and vegetarian, made to give energy at high altitude
