This Chopta Tungnath trek is one of the easiest treks in the Himalayan region and is taken up by a number of people looking to have a spiritual and adventurous journey. From here you will be able to gaze at the surrounding snow-capped peaks of Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, Neelkanth, Kedar dome etc. the trekking journey will take you through some of the most thriving collection of biodiversity here and will be one of the most beautiful treks of your life. The main components of this trek are reaching the two prominent spots of Chandrashila and Tungnath temple. The trekking journey will take you on an undulating journey on the paved roads which will make your journey extremely serene and peaceful.
If you are planning on making this fun filled trekking expedition then here is a complete guide for you that will prove to be extremely handy:
How to Reach:
Getting to Chopta is a very easy task since it is well connected with the sacred town of Haridwar. No matter where you are coming from you will be require to first reach Haridwar which is connected through various networks of roadways i.e. NH 58 and railways. There are several buses running from nearby big and small towns that connect to Haridwar on a daily basis. From Here on you will be following the given map to reach Chopta, Tungnath and Chandrashila:
Haridwar –Sari village – Deoria Tal – Chopta – Tungnath / Chandrashila peak
Here is a Distance Chart:
- Haridwar – Sari village: 221 km / 8 hours (drive)
- Sari Village – Deoria Tal: 4.2 km / 2 hours (trek)
- Deoria Tal – Chopta: 58 km / 3.5 hours (drive)
- Chopta – Tungnath / Chandrashila: 77 km (5 km trek to the temple)
Base Camp
The base camp for the Tungnath / Chandrashila trek is Chopta which is well known for its untouched beauty and is nestled on an elevation of 2,600 metres above sea level. From this point on the Tungnath temple is located on a steep route up the Chandrashila peak near which the temple is located. The trekking journey is covered in lush greenery, high altitude flora and a breath taking magnificent beauty which makes the trip totally worth it. Apart from the Chandrashila / Tungnath trek you can also explore the hidden jewels of Chopta. The difficulty level from here to the temple and peak is easy and if not, then you can also hire mules / dolis etc.
Best Season for the Trek
Trekking for Tungnath / Chandrashila experiences ideal weather for travelling throughout the year. However if you want to be absolutely sure about the trip then you can visit it during the summer months of March to May. The weather here is clear, the ambience is cool and makes your stay here extremely peaceful and safe. The best time to travel with your family. If you don’t have time during the summer months then you can also explore this place during the time just after the monsoon months of July and September, the surroundings will be clearer and the sky will be extremely clear and picturesque. During the winter months you can experience the joys of trekking on snow and feeling the crisp Himalayan winter which will be a unique experience in itself.
Local Experience
The village experience in Chopta is one of the most exhilarating and rejuvenating time that you spend here. the people here are extremely helpful, friendly and cheerful. They respect nature and you should too during the trip and remember not to pollute anywhere you go. You should maintain the sanctity of their beliefs and traditions and remember not to offend them in any manner. The locally available Pahadi cuisines here are also delectable and lip smacking which you should at least try once. You will be waking to the scenic views of the surroundings and peaceful ambience which will make each day here extremely memorable.
Permits Requirement
The camping is done on the Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary zone and hence permits from the forest department is required which can be obtained online. You will also be required to pay the entry fees at certain checkpoints that you will encounter en route along with the obligatory forest camping charges in the entire trekking region. All these permits and charges are included in the tour package for Chopta so that you won’t have to go through the hassles of completing the paperwork on your own. Remember to check the status of all the permits prior to booking.
Medical Advice
Here are a few important numbers which you should save and use in case of medical emergencies in Chopta:
- Uttarakhand help line –0135 – 2710334, 0135 – 2710335, 0135 – 2710233;
- Surya Medical Emergency Helpline: 18001805558, 18004190282;
- Army Medical Emergency Numbers – 18001805558, 18004190282, 8009833388
- Remember that the closest city to the trekking route is Haridwar.
Before any of your trekking journey you should pack a separate pouch of first aid kit which you must carry under any circumstances. If you are not careful on the hills you will be experiencing some harsh medical conditions. The first aid should include: Dettol, bandages, cotton, band aids, antiseptic cream, pain killer, insect repellents etc. people have also experienced acute mountain sickness during their trekking to Chandrashila which involves headaches, insomnia, lung related problems etc. it is advised for you to first consult your doctor before taking on this high altitude journey and get yourself some necessary medication in case you are suffering from heart or respiratory problems.
Trekking Essentials to Carry:
- A good pair of trekking shoes and boots
- Thick pair of comfortable woollen socks
- For your visit to Deoria Tal – waterproof shoes (since you will be crossing a river)
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Woollen cap to keep your head safe
- Thick and heavy woollen jacket
- A pair of reflectors to protect your eyes
- A backpack containing: first aid kit, water bottle, sunscreen etc
Tourist Attraction Highlights
Haridwar (185 km)
This is one of the most popular religious centre in India and is known for its Ganga Aarti and ancient temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses like Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi Temple, Har ki Pauri etc. It is also close to several adventure sports activities like rafting and camping etc. people also come here to do meditation, yoga and learn about Ayurveda.
- Read Also: Top 10 Tourist Places in Uttarakhand
Deoria Tal (58 km)
It is one of the most prominent tourist attraction around Chopta and is well know for its pristine high altitude lake with the backdrop of the snow-capped Chaukhamba peaks. People come here to visit the Ganesh temple which is believed to be the birth place of lord Ganesh. This is also the point which makes accessibility to Tungnath and Chopta possible.
Chopta
You will be staying in Chopta since this will serve as your base camp for trekking to not only Chandrashila and Tungnath but to other places as well. The climate here is extremely pleasing and comfortable allowing you to have a peaceful trip. You will be gazing at the breath takingly mesmerising views of the surrounding snow clad peaks of Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba etc.
Tungnath Temple
Dedicated to Shivji this ancient temple is famed for being the world’s highest temple for Shiva. It is also a significant part of the Panch Kedar temples of Uttarakhand. The trip to the peak is undertaken by a throng of devotees on a daily basis. There are millions of temples in India but this temple is unique due to its magnificently picturesque location and the fun journey that comes with it.
- Read also: Top 10 Temples in Uttarakhand
Brief Itinerary for Chopta / Chandrashila / Tungnath trek
The journey will be of 5 days and you will be following the given route:
Day 1 – arrival at Haridwar
Day 2 – Haridwar – Sari Village – trek to Deoria Tal
Day 3 –Deoria Tal – Chopta
Day 4 – Chopta – Tungnath / Chandrashila – Chopta
Day 5 –Chopta – Haridwar
Trekking Tips
- Before the trek it is vital for you to go out and indulge in at least half n hour of exercise which will keep you fit throughout the journey and you will not get tired and enjoy the most.
- While buying your trekking shoes remember to get a pair which is half a number more than the one you normally use. This is done since if the shoes are snug, then it will cause blisters in your foot. You will also be wearing woollen socks that will avoid these blisters and that is another reason as to why you should get yourself a pair of shoes a little bigger than yours.
- Remember that this is a hill trekking expedition where the weather conditions are unpredictable so it will be wise of you to carry along a waterproof bag for all your electronics and even a raincoat to protect you from the harsh rains here. to avoid this you can also go during the summer season.
- Do not attempt to walk faster than your normal walking pace since it will end up tiring you and loss of breath which will make the journey very difficult and uncomfortable.
- If you are carrying a windcheater remember to only wear it during a long halt and not while walking since it will make you feel suffocated and uncomfortable. Your body needs to regulate the sweat without any hinderance.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where should I stay during my visit to Chopta?
There are several hotels, lodges and other accommodation facilities available that provide budget stay options. You can also go for the tented accommodation or even a camping experience to add some fun element to your travel experience.
- When is the Best Time to Go for Chandrashila Peak?
The most appropriate and the best time to complete the trek to the peak is during the month of March. You will be able to savour some of the most stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan snow capped mountain peaks. This is also a good option for experiencing a winter snow trekking journey.
- Are There Guides Available for the Trekking?
There are several guides and helpers available to take you on this journey. They are mostly available in Chopta at a reasonable rate will help you in making this trip to the top of Chandrashila and Tungnath.