The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most scenic and rewarding Himalayan adventures, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure. Often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Chopta is known for its rolling alpine meadows, dense rhododendron and deodar forests, and stunning panoramic views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks.
One of the biggest highlights of this trek is the visit to Tungnath Temple, the world’s highest Shiva temple, followed by an exhilarating climb to the Chandrashila Summit. From the summit, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking sunrise views and a spectacular panorama of iconic Himalayan ranges, making every step of the journey worthwhile.
Suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers, the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek offers a memorable experience over a short duration, making it an ideal choice for weekend getaways and first-time Himalayan adventures.
At Trekmount, we ensure your journey is well-planned, safe, and enjoyable with experienced trek leaders, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the Himalayas.
Duration: 3–4 Days
Maximum Altitude: 13,123 ft (3,999 m) – Chandrashila Summit
Trek Distance: Approximately 10–12 km
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Starting Point: Chopta
Ending Point: Chopta
Best Time to Visit: March to June & December to February
Recommended Age: 8+ Years
Region: Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand
Trek Type: Round Trip
Trail Type: Forest trail and stone-paved path
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Network Connectivity: Limited (BSNL and Jio work in some areas)
Accommodation: Guesthouse/Camps (depending on package)
ATM Availability: Last reliable ATM at Ukhimath
Highlights: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Summit, Himalayan sunrise, lush meadows, rhododendron forests.
With Trekmount, every aspect of your Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is carefully planned—from experienced trek leaders and comfortable stays to well-organized logistics—ensuring a safe, hassle-free, and memorable trekking experience.
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is perfect for those looking to experience the Himalayas without committing to a long or difficult expedition. Here are a few reasons why this trek is a favorite among trekkers:
Visit Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world.
Trek to Chandrashila Summit for breathtaking sunrise and panoramic Himalayan views.
Suitable for beginners, families, and experienced trekkers alike.
Walk through beautiful forests of rhododendron, oak, and deodar.
Enjoy stunning views of Himalayan peaks like Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath.
Experience the perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and nature.
Witness different landscapes in every season, from lush green meadows in summer to snow-covered trails in winter.
Ideal for a short weekend getaway with a rewarding trekking experience.
With Trekmount, you can enjoy a well-organized trek led by experienced guides, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and memorable journey from start to finish.
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek best time depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. This trek can be enjoyed almost throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique charm. From lush green meadows and blooming rhododendron forests in spring to snow-covered trails during winter, the landscape changes dramatically with the seasons. Whether you’re seeking pleasant weather, breathtaking mountain views, or a snowy Himalayan adventure, there’s an ideal time for every trekker.
Spring and early summer are among the most popular months for the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. The weather remains pleasant, making the trek comfortable for beginners and families. During this season, the forests come alive with blooming rhododendrons, while the surrounding Himalayan peaks remain visible against clear blue skies.
Pleasant daytime temperatures
Blooming rhododendron and alpine vegetation
Lush green meadows and forests
Clear views of Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath peaks
Ideal weather for beginners and first-time trekkers
Best season for camping and photography
After the monsoon, Chopta transforms into a peaceful trekking destination with fresh greenery and crystal-clear mountain views. The weather becomes stable, humidity decreases, and the trails are less crowded, making it an excellent time for those who enjoy quieter Himalayan experiences.
Crystal-clear Himalayan views
Fresh landscapes after the monsoon
Pleasant trekking conditions
Less crowded trails
Excellent visibility for photography
Comfortable daytime temperatures
Winter turns the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek into a magical snow adventure. Thick layers of snow blanket the forests and trails, creating one of the most scenic winter trekking experiences in Uttarakhand. While the trek becomes more challenging, it rewards trekkers with breathtaking snow-covered landscapes.
Snow-covered trekking trails
Spectacular winter scenery
Peaceful surroundings with fewer visitors
Ideal for snow lovers and adventure seekers
Stunning sunrise views from Chandrashila Summit
Perfect for experiencing the Himalayas in winter
The monsoon season, typically from July to August, brings heavy rainfall to the region. During this period, trekking trails can become slippery, visibility may be reduced, and the risk of landslides increases. While the forests appear lush and vibrant, trekking is generally not recommended due to safety concerns.
Every season offers a different perspective of the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. Spring showcases colorful forests and pleasant weather, post-monsoon provides crystal-clear mountain views, and winter transforms the trail into a snowy paradise. Choosing the right season depends on whether you want blooming landscapes, comfortable trekking conditions, or an unforgettable snow trek.
At Trekmount, we carefully organize our Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek departures during the most favorable seasons to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience. Our experienced trek leaders continuously monitor weather conditions and trail accessibility so that you can explore the Himalayas with confidence, regardless of the season you choose.
Reaching the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is convenient, with good connectivity by air, rail, and road. The trek begins from Chopta, a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand known as the gateway to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Summit. Most trekkers travel via Rishikesh or Haridwar before continuing their scenic journey into the Garhwal Himalayas.
Jolly Grant Airport is well connected to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. From the airport, you can hire a private taxi or take a shared cab to reach Chopta via Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath.
Haridwar and Rishikesh have regular train connectivity with Delhi and several other major cities. From either railway station, travelers can continue to Chopta by bus, shared taxi, or private cab.
The most popular route to Chopta is:
Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta
The drive to Chopta is a memorable part of the journey, passing through winding mountain roads, river valleys, charming villages, and the beautiful confluences of Uttarakhand. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of forests and Himalayan landscapes before reaching the serene meadows of Chopta.
The trek to Tungnath Temple begins directly from Chopta. The well-paved trail gradually ascends through forests and open meadows before reaching the temple. From Tungnath, trekkers continue for about 1.5 km to the Chandrashila Summit, which rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges.
Planning a Himalayan trek can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. Trekmount provides complete pre-trek assistance, including reporting details, route guidance, transportation advice, and expert support. Our experienced team ensures you have all the information needed for a smooth, safe, and hassle-free journey from your arrival in Uttarakhand until the successful completion of your Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek.
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek passes through the beautiful Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the richest biodiversity zones in the Garhwal Himalayas. The trail is surrounded by dense forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude vegetation, making it a paradise for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Every season brings a new charm, from blooming rhododendrons in spring to snow-covered landscapes in winter.
The trekking trail is lined with a rich variety of Himalayan trees, shrubs, and alpine plants. During spring, the forests come alive with vibrant blossoms, creating a spectacular trekking experience.
Trekkers can find:
In March and April, the blooming rhododendron flowers add brilliant shades of red and pink to the surrounding forests, making this one of the most scenic seasons to visit Chopta.
The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several Himalayan animal and bird species, although wildlife sightings depend on the season and are relatively rare.
Some of the wildlife found in the region includes:
Birdwatchers may spot several Himalayan birds, including:
The combination of lush forests, alpine meadows, diverse wildlife, and spectacular Himalayan scenery makes the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek one of the most rewarding nature treks in Uttarakhand. At Trekmount, we encourage responsible trekking practices that help protect the region’s fragile ecosystem while allowing trekkers to experience its incredible natural beauty.
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek difficulty is generally considered easy to moderate, making it one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners. The trail is well-defined and mostly stone-paved up to Tungnath Temple, with a slightly steeper climb from Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit. Although the trek is short, the high altitude and gradual ascent require a reasonable level of fitness.
Whether you’re a first-time trekker, a family looking for a weekend adventure, or an experienced hiker seeking panoramic Himalayan views, this trek offers a rewarding experience without requiring any technical trekking skills.
During the trek, you will experience:
Well-marked stone-paved trekking trails
Gradual ascent through dense forests and alpine meadows
Moderate climbs with breathtaking mountain views
A short but steep section from Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit
High-altitude trekking conditions above 13,000 ft
Snow-covered trails during the winter season
While the trek is manageable for most people, winter departures can be more challenging due to snow and icy trails. Trekkers should walk at a steady pace and stay well-hydrated to adjust comfortably to the altitude.
Although this trek is beginner-friendly, preparing a few weeks in advance will make your journey more enjoyable and comfortable.
Fitness Tips:
Walk or jog 4–5 km daily
Build stamina with regular cardio exercises
Practice climbing stairs to strengthen your legs
Include cycling or brisk walking in your routine
Perform stretching exercises to improve flexibility
Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet before the trek
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is suitable for:
Beginners with basic fitness
Families with children above 8 years of age
Solo travelers
Nature and photography enthusiasts
Pilgrims visiting Tungnath Temple
Experienced trekkers looking for a short Himalayan adventure
With Trekmount, you’ll be accompanied by experienced trek leaders who ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Our team provides complete guidance, maintains a comfortable pace for the group, and offers support throughout the journey, making the trek suitable for both first-time and seasoned trekkers.
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most popular Himalayan adventures, combining breathtaking mountain views, spiritual significance, lush forests, and an exciting summit climb. Whether you’re a beginner, a nature lover, or a pilgrim, this trek offers an unforgettable experience in every season.
🛕 Visit Tungnath Temple – The highest Shiva temple in the world and one of the sacred Panch Kedar shrines.
🏔️ Summit Chandrashila Peak – Reach an altitude of 13,123 ft and enjoy spectacular 360° views of the Himalayas.
🌅 Witness a Magical Sunrise – Watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate peaks like Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, and Bandarpoonch.
🌲 Trek Through Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary – Walk amidst dense oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests rich in Himalayan biodiversity.
🌼 Explore Chopta – Experience the beauty of the “Mini Switzerland of India” with its lush meadows and pristine landscapes.
❄️ Enjoy a Snow Trek in Winter – Experience snow-covered trails and breathtaking winter scenery from December to February.
🚶 Perfect for Beginners – A short, well-defined trekking trail suitable for first-time trekkers, families, and solo travelers.
📸 Photography Paradise – Capture stunning Himalayan landscapes, alpine meadows, forests, temples, and unforgettable sunrise views.
🌿 Experience Nature & Spirituality Together – A unique trek that beautifully combines adventure with the spiritual aura of Tungnath Temple.
🎒 Ideal Weekend Himalayan Getaway – Complete this rewarding trek in just 3–4 days without requiring prior trekking experience.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is how the landscape transforms with every season. Spring fills the forests with blooming rhododendrons, summer offers pleasant weather and crystal-clear mountain views, while winter turns the trail into a breathtaking snow-covered wonderland. This perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty makes it one of the most rewarding short treks in the Indian Himalayas.
With Trekmount, every detail of your journey is carefully planned—from experienced trek leaders and comfortable accommodations to seamless logistics and on-ground support—ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and memorable Himalayan trekking experience.
Drive Distance: 220 km
Drive Duration: 7–8 Hours
Altitude: Approx. 8,790 ft
Your journey begins from Rishikesh, the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. As you drive towards Chopta, you’ll pass through picturesque towns including Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath. The route offers breathtaking views of river valleys, dense forests, mountain villages, and the majestic Himalayan landscape.
After reaching Chopta by evening, check in to your campsite or guesthouse. Surrounded by peaceful meadows and forests, spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the next day’s trek.
Overnight Stay: Chopta
Trek Distance: Approximately 10–12 km (Round Trip)
Trek Duration: 6–7 Hours
Maximum Altitude: 13,123 ft
After an early breakfast, begin your trek from Chopta towards Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world and one of the sacred Panch Kedar shrines. The well-paved trail gradually climbs through beautiful alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and scenic mountain slopes.
After seeking blessings at the temple, continue your trek to Chandrashila Summit. The final ascent is steeper but rewards you with spectacular 360-degree views of Himalayan giants like Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, and Bandarpoonch.
Spend some time at the summit enjoying the breathtaking scenery before descending back to Chopta.
Overnight Stay: Chopta
Optional Trek Distance: 2.5 km (One Way)
Drive Distance: Approximately 220 km
Drive Duration: 7–8 Hours
After breakfast, those interested can visit the beautiful Deoria Tal, a serene mountain lake famous for its crystal-clear reflections of the Chaukhamba massif. Surrounded by dense forests, the lake offers a peaceful atmosphere and excellent photography opportunities.
After exploring the lake, begin your drive back towards Rishikesh through the scenic Garhwal Himalayas, carrying unforgettable memories of your Himalayan adventure.
Overnight Stay: Not Applicable
Reach Rishikesh after a memorable Himalayan journey, marking the end of your Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek with Trekmount.
We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of ancient temples, panoramic Himalayan views, lush forests, and the incredible experience of standing atop Chandrashila Summit. We look forward to welcoming you on your next Himalayan adventure.
End of Trek
When you book the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek with Trekmount, we take care of all the essential arrangements to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable trekking experience. Our experienced team handles the planning and on-ground logistics, allowing you to focus on exploring the beauty of the Himalayas.
What’s Included?
Comfortable accommodation in camps or guesthouses (as per the itinerary)
Nutritious vegetarian meals during the trekking period
Experienced trek leader and support staff
Basic trekking support throughout the journey
Forest entry permits and applicable trekking fees
First aid kit and basic medical assistance
Pre-trek guidance and travel assistance from the Trekmount team
On-ground coordination and trek management
With Trekmount, every aspect of your trek is carefully planned to provide a smooth, safe, and memorable Himalayan adventure.
While the trek package includes all major services, a few personal and optional expenses are not covered and must be borne by the trekkers.
What’s Not Included?
Travel expenses to and from Rishikesh
Personal expenses such as snacks, beverages, shopping, and phone calls
Travel and medical insurance
Porter, pony, or mule charges (if required)
Any emergency evacuation expenses
Additional accommodation or transportation due to weather conditions, roadblocks, or unforeseen delays
Personal trekking gear and equipment
Anything not specifically mentioned under the Inclusions
Trekkers are advised to carry sufficient cash for personal expenses and any unforeseen situations, as ATM facilities and digital payment options may be limited in remote mountain regions.
A comfortable stay and wholesome meals are essential for an enjoyable trekking experience. During the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek, trekkers stay in clean camps or guesthouses surrounded by the serene Himalayan landscape. After a day of trekking, these accommodations provide the perfect place to relax and recharge.
Comfortable camps or guesthouses (as per the itinerary)
Twin or triple-sharing accommodation (subject to availability)
Clean bedding and blankets
Basic washroom facilities
Peaceful surroundings with beautiful mountain views
Trekkers are served freshly prepared vegetarian meals to keep them energized throughout the journey. The meals are simple, hygienic, and nutritious, making them ideal for trekking in the Himalayas.
Meals generally include:
Healthy breakfast
Freshly prepared lunch
Evening tea with snacks
Nutritious dinner
Special attention is given to food quality, hygiene, and balanced nutrition to ensure trekkers remain healthy and energized during the trek.
Safety is our highest priority during the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. Trekmount follows well-planned safety procedures and provides experienced guidance throughout the journey to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Experienced and certified trek leaders
Trained local guides familiar with the trekking route
Comprehensive first aid and basic medical kits
Emergency assistance whenever required
Continuous weather and trail condition monitoring
Safety briefings before the trek
Well-planned itinerary with adequate rest and hydration breaks
Our team is always prepared to handle changing mountain conditions and provide prompt assistance, allowing trekkers to enjoy the journey with confidence.
Carrying the right gear makes your trekking experience safer and more comfortable. Since weather conditions in the Himalayas can change quickly, it is important to pack wisely for every season.
Warm jacket or fleece
Thermal innerwear (recommended during winter)
Quick-dry trekking t-shirts
Trekking pants
Woollen cap or beanie
Gloves
Extra pairs of socks
Rain jacket or poncho (during monsoon and post-monsoon)
Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip
Comfortable backpack (30–40 litres)
Trekking pole (optional but recommended)
Headlamp or torch
Reusable water bottle
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Sunglasses with UV protection
Personal medicines
Lip balm and moisturizer
Toiletries
Power bank
Valid government ID proof
Camera or smartphone for photography
Trekmount shares a detailed packing checklist with all participants before departure, ensuring every trekker is well-prepared for a safe, comfortable, and memorable Himalayan adventure.
Yes, the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners. The trail is well-defined, the trekking distance is relatively short, and no prior trekking experience is required. A basic level of fitness is enough to comfortably complete the trek.
The best time to visit is March to June for pleasant weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views. If you want to experience snow trekking, December to February is the ideal season. September to November is also a great time for crystal-clear Himalayan views.
Yes. Snow is usually available from late December to February, depending on weather conditions. During this period, the trail transforms into a beautiful snow-covered landscape, making it a popular winter trekking destination.
The climb from Tungnath Temple to Chandrashila Summit is moderately steep but short, covering approximately 1.5 km. Most beginners can complete it comfortably with a steady pace and basic fitness
No. Tungnath Temple remains open during the summer months, generally from April or May until October or November, depending on the annual temple schedule. During winter, the temple closes due to heavy snowfall, and the deity is moved to Makku Math for worship.
Mobile connectivity is limited in Chopta. Jio and BSNL generally offer the best coverage in the region, but the signal may be weak or unavailable on certain parts of the trekking route.
Yes. Many trekkers complete the trek over a 2-day weekend, especially when traveling from nearby cities. However, a 3–4 day itinerary is recommended for a more relaxed experience and to explore nearby attractions like Deoria Tal.
Yes. The trek is considered safe for beginners and experienced trekkers alike when undertaken with proper preparation and an experienced trekking organization like Trekmount. Following your trek leader’s instructions and checking weather conditions before the trek are essential for a safe experience.
The highest point of the trek is Chandrashila Summit, which stands at an altitude of approximately 13,123 ft (3,999 m). From the summit, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks.
Carry warm clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, a backpack, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves, a woollen cap, personal medicines, and a rain jacket (during the monsoon or post-monsoon season). If trekking in winter, thermal wear and additional warm layers are highly recommended.
Yes, certain forest entry permits or local fees may be applicable depending on the route and current regulations. When you book with Trekmount, we assist with the necessary permits and ensure all required formalities are taken care of for a hassle-free trekking experience.
Apart from Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Summit, trekkers can explore nearby attractions such as Deoria Tal, Ukhimath, Sari Village, and the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. These destinations offer stunning Himalayan views, peaceful surroundings, and excellent opportunities for photography and nature walks.
