Chopta Chandrashila Trek – Weekend Hike to Peaks & Sunrise

Chopta Chandrashila Trek – Weekend Hike to Peaks & Sunrise

Published on June 20, 2025

Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of the most rewarding weekend treks you can experience in the Indian Himalayas. Starting from the quiet village of Chopta in Uttarakhand, the trail takes you through dense forests, peaceful meadows, and finally to the sacred Tungnath Temple—one of the highest Shiva shrines in the world. For those who continue upward, the summit of Chandrashila offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of snow-covered Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.

What makes this trek special is that it blends nature, spirituality, and adventure—all in just a couple of days. It’s ideal for beginners, couples, and anyone looking to escape city life without needing long leaves or heavy planning. The cool mountain air, peaceful surroundings, and golden sunrise from the summit create memories that stay with you long after the trek is over. Whether solo or with friends, this trail is an experience worth every step.

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2 Nights 3 Days Chopta Chandrashila Trek Itinerary – Full Travel Plan

Day 0: Delhi to Rishikesh to Sari Village

  • Departure: Start your journey from Botanical Garden Metro Station at 10:00 PM.
  • Overnight Journey: Travel overnight towards Sari Village via Rishikesh.
  • Stop at Devprayag: Witness the mesmerizing confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers along the way.

Day 1: Sari Village to Deoriatal

  • Arrival at Sari Village: Check into your homestay and take some time to freshen up.
  • Trek to Deoriatal: Begin your trek to Deoriatal (2.5 km, approximately 1.5–2 hours).
  • Enjoy Deoriatal: Soak in the serene beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscapes.
  • Return to Sari Village: Head back to Sari Village and enjoy a peaceful evening.

Day 2: Sari Village to Tungnath & Chandrashila

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your homestay.
  • Drive to Chopta: A scenic drive of about 1 hour from Sari Village.
  • Trek to Tungnath Temple: Embark on a 3.5 km trek to the sacred Tungnath Temple.
  • Summit Chandrashila: Extend your trek by 1.5 km to reach the breathtaking Chandrashila summit.
  • Return to Chopta/Sari: After the trek, return to Chopta or Sari for an overnight stay at the campsite.

Day 3: Chopta to Delhi

  • Breakfast: Enjoy an early breakfast at your campsite in Chopta.
  • Departure: Begin your journey back to Delhi in the early morning.
  • Visit Dhari Devi Temple: Stop by the revered Dhari Devi Temple en route.
  • Arrival in Delhi: A long drive of approximately 10–12 hours marks the end of your adventure.

Inclusion

  • One Night Accommodation In Sari Village.

  • One Night Accommodation In Chopta/Sari Village.

  • 4 Meals Will Be Provided Throughtout The Trip.

  • AC Transportation.

  • Guide While trekking.

  • Experienced Trip Captain Throught The Trip.

Exclusion

  • 5% GST

  • Extra Drinks, Food, Tea and Snacks.

  • Tickets for any sightseeing or extra activity outside the camp area.

  • Travel Insurance and other benefits.

  • Anything which is not mentioned in inclusions.

  • Cost escalation due to any unforeseen reason like weather, road condition landslide etc.

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Why Choose the Chopta Chandrashila Trek for Your Next Weekend Trip?

If you're looking for a refreshing break from city chaos without taking too many days off, the Chopta Chandrashila trek is one of the best weekend options. Located in Uttarakhand, this short yet scenic trail offers the perfect mix of adventure, peace, and natural beauty—all packed into just two to three days.

What makes this trek truly special is that it doesn’t require expert trekking skills or long itineraries. Whether you’re a first-time hiker, a couple planning a quiet escape, or a group of friends chasing mountain sunrises, the chandrashila trek delivers an unforgettable Himalayan experience with minimal fuss.

Here’s why this trek stands out as a top weekend pick:

  • Short Duration, Big Rewards:
    The trek can be completed in just 2 nights and 3 days, including travel from Delhi or nearby cities.

  • Beginner-Friendly Trail:
    A well-marked path and moderate incline make it ideal even for those who’ve never trekked before.

  • Stunning Sunrise Views:
    The view from Chandrashila peak at dawn is one of the best in the Garhwal Himalayas, offering a panoramic look at Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath peaks.

  • Spiritual Significance:
    On the way up, you’ll visit Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, adding a peaceful, spiritual dimension to the journey.

  • Great for Quick Planning:
    Many weekend tour packages are available, covering stay, meals, guide, and transport—making it easy to just pack and go.

  • Natural Beauty All Around:
    The trail passes through alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and open ridgelines with endless mountain views.

The Chopta Chandrashila trek isn’t just about reaching the summit—it’s about reconnecting with nature in a short time. It’s a simple, affordable, and refreshing trip that stays with you long after you return. If you’ve been craving mountains but can’t take long leaves, this is your perfect escape.

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Chopta to Chandrashila – Complete Trekking Route & Distance

The Chopta Chandrashila trek is short, scenic, and surprisingly rewarding. It begins from the peaceful meadows of Chopta, often called the base camp of the trek, and gradually winds its way up to the Chandrashila summit through Tungnath—the highest Shiva temple in the world.

The total trekking distance is around 5 kilometers one way, with an elevation gain of nearly 1,300 feet from Chopta to Chandrashila. Despite the climb, this route is ideal for beginners due to its well-defined trail and short length.

Route Breakdown – Chopta to Chandrashila

  • Starting Point: Chopta (approx. 2,600 meters / 8,500 ft)
    The trek starts here, surrounded by pine and rhododendron forests. The path is stone-paved in many sections and gradually ascends through forested terrain.

  • Mid-Point: Tungnath Temple (3.5 km from Chopta at 3,680 meters / 12,073 ft)
    This is the main stop before the summit. It’s a perfect place to catch your breath, explore the ancient temple, and take in the views. The incline here becomes more noticeable but remains manageable with regular breaks.

  • Final Stretch: Tungnath to Chandrashila (1.5 km further, summit at 4,000 meters / 13,123 ft)
    This is the steepest part of the trek. The trail turns rocky and open, with panoramic views opening up on both sides. In winter, this stretch is often snow-covered and can be slippery, so extra care is needed.

What to Expect on the Trail

  • Beautiful forest walk in the beginning, followed by alpine meadows

  • Stone-paved path up to Tungnath, natural rocky trail toward Chandrashila

  • Chances to spot Himalayan birds and even musk deer in early mornings

  • The chandrashila summit trek offers a 360-degree view of major Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath

The chandrashila trek might be short in distance, but it delivers big on views and satisfaction. For anyone looking to experience the Himalayas without a long expedition, this trail from Chopta to Chandrashila is the perfect choice—balanced, beautiful, and totally worth the effort.

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Tungnath Temple on the Way – Spiritual Stop Before the Summit

If there’s one thing that makes the Chopta Tungnath trek truly unique, it’s the presence of the ancient Tungnath Temple—the highest Shiva temple in the world, sitting at an altitude of around 3,680 meters. As you walk through the dense rhododendron and oak forests on your way up from Chopta, the sudden appearance of the temple feels both mystical and peaceful. It’s not just a rest stop on the way to the summit—it’s a spiritual experience.

Tungnath is one of the five Panch Kedar temples in Uttarakhand and holds great religious importance. According to mythology, this is where the arms of Lord Shiva appeared when he went into hiding after the Kurukshetra war. Pilgrims and trekkers alike stop here to seek blessings before climbing to Chandrashila.

Why Tungnath is a Must-Visit on the Trek:

  • Ancient Spiritual Vibe:
    Over 1,000 years old, the temple has been a site of worship long before trekking here became popular.

  • Accessible for All:
    Even those who may not continue to Chandrashila often complete just the Tungnath temple trek for its manageable incline and religious value.

  • Scenic Rest Point:
    After the 3.5 km climb from Chopta, the temple offers open views of snow-covered peaks and lush green valleys.

  • Perfect for Photography and Peace:
    The setting is serene—ideal for a quiet moment, a quick snack, or simply to enjoy the crisp mountain air.

For travelers coming on the chopta tungnath trek from Delhi, reaching Tungnath feels like stepping into another world. There’s no traffic, no noise—just cold stone steps, fluttering prayer flags, and mountain silence.

Many chopta tungnath trek packages include a guided visit to the temple, and often time it in a way that you can attend the simple yet deeply moving aarti held here in the mornings.

Whether you're religious or simply curious, a stop at Tungnath adds soul to the trek. It turns your hike into something more meaningful—where each step feels like a quiet prayer in the lap of the Himalayas.

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Sunrise from Chandrashila Peak – What to Expect at the Top

There’s a reason most people begin the final stretch of the chandrashila summit trek well before dawn. It’s not just about finishing the climb—it’s about catching that one magical moment when the sun rises behind the mighty Himalayan peaks and lights up the entire sky. If you’ve never seen a Himalayan sunrise before, this will stay with you for life.

After crossing Tungnath Temple, the final 1.5 km to Chandrashila is steeper and more exposed. The trail is rocky, and in winter, often covered with snow. But every step feels worth it as the sky slowly begins to change color—deep blue to orange, and then golden. Most trekkers aim to reach the top of the chandrashila trek by 5:30–6:00 AM, depending on the season.

What Makes the Sunrise Special

  • Panoramic Himalayan View:
    From the summit, you get a 360-degree view of the Garhwal and Kumaon ranges. Peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath glow orange as the first light hits.

  • Peaceful and Pure:
    The air is crisp, the silence is calming, and the sense of achievement after the climb adds to the emotion of the moment.

  • Spiritual Energy:
    Locals believe that standing atop Chandrashila (which means “Moon Rock”) brings mental clarity and inner peace. Many visitors spend a few minutes in quiet reflection.

  • Photography Heaven:
    For nature lovers and photographers, this is the perfect time to capture the mountains at their best. Even a basic phone camera can take frame-worthy shots in this light.

Reaching the chandrashila summit trek in time for sunrise does require effort—an early start in the cold, a bit of physical push—but it rewards you with something no city morning ever could. The view is wide, wild, and full of awe. For many, it becomes the highlight of the entire trek.

If you’re planning the chandrashila trek, do yourself a favor—wake up early, climb slowly, and reach the top before the sun breaks over the horizon. You’ll forget the tiredness, but you’ll always remember that sky.

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Chopta Chandrashila Trek from Delhi – Travel & Route Guide

If you're planning the Chopta Chandrashila trek from Delhi, you’ve picked one of the most convenient Himalayan getaways for a long weekend. Just 450 km from the capital, this journey offers forest trails, peaceful stays, and stunning sunrise views—all without needing a week off. The route may be a bit long, but it’s smooth and scenic once you leave the city chaos behind.

There are multiple ways to reach Chopta, depending on your comfort, time, and budget. Whether you're going solo, with friends, or booking a chopta tour package from delhi, here’s how you can plan your route:

By Road – The Most Flexible Option

  • Distance: Around 450–465 km

  • Duration: 12 to 14 hours by car or shared taxi

  • Route: Delhi → Meerut → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta

  • Roads are mostly in good condition. If you’re traveling with a group, hiring a private cab or tempo traveler is ideal. Overnight journey works well for weekend plans.

By Train – Budget-Friendly Option

  • Nearest Railway Stations: Haridwar (225 km from Chopta) or Rishikesh (200 km)

  • Take an overnight train from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh. From there, hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Chopta.

  • Not the fastest route but perfect for backpackers doing the tungnath chandrashila trek from delhi on a budget.

By Air – Quickest Start, Longer End Drive

  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (220 km from Chopta)

  • Fly from Delhi to Dehradun, then take a cab to Chopta. Ideal if you want to skip road fatigue from Delhi but don’t mind a mountain drive afterward.

Most travelers doing the chandrashila trek from delhi prefer night journeys to save time and begin trekking early the next morning. If you book a chopta chandrashila trek from delhi package, it usually includes transport, meals, stay, and a guide—taking care of all the logistics.

No matter which way you go, the road to Chopta is as beautiful as the destination itself.

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Stay Options in Chopta – Camping, Homestays & Guesthouses

When planning a trip to the beautiful meadows of Chopta, one of the first things to consider is your stay. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking for something more comfortable, Chopta has options that fit every traveler’s style—from tents pitched under the stars to cozy wooden cottages surrounded by forests.

Most chopta tour packages include accommodation, and depending on the season and your preferences, you can choose between campsites, local homestays, or basic guesthouses.

Camping in Chopta – A Raw Himalayan Experience

Camping is by far the most popular choice for trekkers. Camps are usually set up in open meadows or near forest clearings with views of the surrounding peaks.

  • Tents are clean, weatherproof, and come with sleeping bags or mattresses.

  • Most campsites offer shared toilets, common dining areas, and evening bonfires.

  • Meals are typically included—freshly cooked local food served hot.

  • A great way to feel close to nature, especially under a starry sky.

Camping is included in many chopta tour package from delhi plans, making it hassle-free for weekend travelers.

Homestays – Comfort with a Local Touch

For travelers who prefer walls over canvas, homestays in nearby villages like Baniyakund or Dugalbitta offer a warm and authentic experience.

  • Run by local families, these homes provide basic rooms with beds, blankets, and clean bathrooms.

  • Meals are simple, homemade, and full of local flavors.

  • You also get a chance to interact with the hosts and learn about mountain life.

This is a good fit for families or couples booking a chopta tour package who want comfort without missing out on culture.

Guesthouses – Budget Rooms with Essentials

Guesthouses offer basic lodging facilities, usually near the Chopta market area.

  • Ideal for solo travelers or those arriving without prior bookings.

  • Expect standard rooms, attached bathrooms, and food on request.

  • Fewer frills, but clean and practical.

Whether you're choosing a peaceful tent or a warm room, the hospitality in Chopta is humble but heartfelt. Most chopta tour packages give you a mix of local comfort and scenic beauty, making sure your stay feels just right.

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Ideal Time to Do the Chopta Chandrashila Trek – Month-wise Guide

Planning your chandrashila trek at the right time can completely change your experience. From clear skies and mountain views to snow-covered trails, every season offers something unique. Since it’s a short trek, open for most of the year, picking the right month depends on what kind of adventure you’re after—lush greenery, golden sunrises, or snowy silence.

Below is a month-wise guide to help you choose the perfect time for your chandrashila summit trek.

March to May – Spring and Early Summer (Best Time)

  • Weather: Pleasant days, chilly mornings and evenings

  • Highlights: Rhododendrons in full bloom, snow patches still visible near Chandrashila

  • Crowd: Moderate, popular with casual trekkers and weekend travelers

  • Why go now: Great mix of clear views and comfortable weather—ideal for beginners

June to Mid-July – Start of Monsoon (Less Recommended)

  • Weather: Warm but with chances of rainfall and slippery trails

  • Highlights: Lush greenery, but fog can block views

  • Crowd: Fewer trekkers due to unpredictable weather

  • Tip: Only go if you’re experienced and well-prepared for rain

Mid-July to August – Peak Monsoon (Off-Season)

  • Weather: Wet, muddy, and frequent landslides

  • Highlights: Dense forests, but poor trail conditions

  • Crowd: Very low

  • Off-season note: Most camps and tour services remain closed; not ideal for the chandrashila trek

September to November – Post-Monsoon to Pre-Winter (Highly Recommended)

  • Weather: Crisp air, clear skies, stunning sunrise views

  • Highlights: 360° visibility from Chandrashila, perfect photography conditions

  • Crowd: Slightly high in October, but manageable

  • Why go now: The most stable and scenic time for the chandrashila summit trek

December to February – Winter Wonderland (Snow Trekking)

  • Weather: Freezing cold, heavy snowfall above Tungnath

  • Highlights: Snow trails, white-washed peaks, magical sunrise

  • Crowd: Moderate, especially around Christmas/New Year

  • Tip: Only go if you’re fit and equipped for snow trekking—trail may close temporarily during heavy snow

No matter the month, the chandrashila trek promises beauty and peace. Choose your time based on what you want to experience—and prepare accordingly.

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What to Pack for the Chopta Chandrashila Trek – Essentials You’ll Need

Whether you're going solo or booking a Chopta tour package, packing right for the Chandrashila trek can make all the difference. The weather in Chopta can change quickly—from sunny mornings to freezing nights—and being underprepared can ruin your experience. Since it's a short trek, there's no need to overpack, but you do need to be smart about what you carry.

Here’s a complete checklist to help you get ready.

Clothing & Layers

  • Thermal innerwear (top and bottom) – especially in winter

  • Full-sleeve t-shirts – quick-dry material is ideal

  • Fleece or down jacket – lightweight but warm

  • Windcheater or waterproof shell – useful if rain or snow is expected

  • Trekking pants – avoid jeans, go for quick-dry fabric

  • Woolen cap and gloves – the early morning climb to Chandrashila is cold

  • Extra pair of warm socks – cold feet can ruin your comfort

 Footwear & Accessories

  • Good trekking shoes – ankle support and strong grip is a must

  • Slippers or sandals – for use at the campsite or homestay

  • Sunglasses & sunscreen – UV rays are stronger at high altitudes

  • Woolen muffler or neck gaiter – protects against cold wind

Backpack Essentials

  • Day backpack (20–30L) – enough for water, snacks, jacket, and camera

  • Reusable water bottle – stay hydrated during the trek

  • Power bank – mobile networks are weak, but a charged phone is useful

  • Flashlight or headlamp – early sunrise treks start in the dark

  • Snacks like dry fruits, energy bars, glucose – for quick energy on the trail

Personal Items

  • Basic medicines – fever, cold, headache, acidity, and pain relief

  • Band-aids, muscle spray – in case of minor injuries

  • Toiletries and tissues – camps may not have full bathroom setups

  • ID proof & some cash – no ATMs in Chopta

Even if you’re taking a Chopta tour package, always carry your own essentials. The Chandrashila trek is not long, but the altitude and weather demand a bit of planning. Travel light—but wisely—and your trek will be as smooth as the Himalayan breeze.

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Explore the Himalayan Ecosystem on the Chopta Chandrashila Trek

The Chopta Chandrashila trek isn’t just a walk to a scenic viewpoint—it’s a journey through one of the richest and most peaceful natural environments in Uttarakhand. From dense forests and alpine meadows to rare birds and Himalayan mammals, this route offers a chance to truly connect with the wild.

What makes this trek extra special is the diversity packed into such a short distance. In just a few kilometers, the landscape shifts from lush green woodland to open sky-high ridges. Nature shows its full range here.

Forests and Meadows – A Green Paradise

  • Rhododendron blooms (March to May) paint the trail in red and pink shades.

  • Oak and deodar trees form a canopy along much of the early trail.

  • Bugyals (high-altitude meadows) near Chopta open up to wide grassy stretches, great for camping and photography.

  • During spring and early summer, wildflowers grow in abundance, carpeting the ground in vibrant colors.

Birdwatcher’s Heaven

Chopta is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its bird diversity. If you’re patient and quiet, you might spot:

  • Himalayan Monal – the state bird of Uttarakhand, with its bright, iridescent feathers

  • Himalayan Griffon, Hill Partridge, and Lammergeier

  • Several species of woodpeckers, thrushes, and finches

Bird enthusiasts from across India visit this region during the early summer months just for the chance to spot these rare creatures in the wild.

Wildlife Encounters

While sightings are rare due to human activity, the forests are home to:

  • Musk deer, barking deer, and Himalayan foxes

  • Occasionally, signs of leopards have been seen deeper inside the forest zone, although they stay far from trekking paths

Always stay on the marked trail and avoid littering to protect this delicate ecosystem.

Whether you're walking silently through the woods or watching the sunrise from Chandrashila, the Chopta Chandrashila trek introduces you to a side of nature that feels untouched and real. It's a perfect mix of beauty and biodiversity—a true Himalayan escape.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Chopta 

1. What is included in a typical Chopta tour package?
Most Chopta tour packages include transportation, accommodation, meals, guided treks to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila, and basic camping gear if required.

2. How difficult is the Chopta Tungnath trek?
It’s a moderate trek suitable for beginners with basic fitness. The trail is well-marked and scenic.

3. What is the best time to visit Chopta and Tungnath?
March to June and September to November are ideal. Snow lovers prefer December to February.

4. Is the Chandrashila trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Chopta Chandrashila trek is beginner-friendly and often chosen by first-time trekkers and families.

5. How long is the Chopta Tungnath trek?
The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is around 3.5 km one way, and an additional 1.5 km to Chandrashila summit.

6. What’s the altitude of Tungnath and Chandrashila?
Tungnath Temple sits at 3,680 meters, while Chandrashila summit is at 4,000 meters above sea level.

7. Are there Chopta tour packages from Delhi or Haridwar?
Yes, you can book a Chopta tour package from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun with flexible pricing options.

8. What is the average Chopta tour package price?
The price typically ranges from ₹5,500 to ₹9,000 per person, depending on the duration, group size, and inclusions.

9. Is Tungnath temple open throughout the year?
No, Tungnath Temple remains open from April/May to October/November and closes during winter due to heavy snowfall.

10. What kind of wildlife can I see in Chopta?
Chopta is rich in biodiversity—expect to see monals, musk deer, langurs, and a variety of Himalayan birds and flora.

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