Chopta (Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand, hill station)
Published on September 10, 2025
Chopta Tungnath - The Hidden Gem of Uttarakhand
Welcome to Chopta Uttarakhand, a pristine region of alpine meadows (bugyals) and evergreen forests nestled within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary in India. It serves as a popular base for exhilarating Himalayan treks to Tungnath temple, the third of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage sites, located just 3.5 km away. The journey continues to the magnificent Chandrashila summit, a breathtaking 1.5 km climb beyond the temple.
Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,608 to 2,709 m, Chopta offers panoramic views of iconic Himalayan peaks such as Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Chaukhamba. The landscape, richly forested with pine, deodar, and vibrant rhododendron forests, provides a safe habitat for diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive musk deer and rare birds, making it a dream destination for Uttarakhand tourism.
Location & Access If you're wondering how to reach Chopta Tungnath, you'll find it's well-connected by motorable roads, making it an ideal choice for an offbeat places in Uttarakhand adventure. Here's a quick look at the distances:
- ~45 km from Ukhimath
- ~162 km from Rishikesh
- ~450 km from Delhi
Popular routes to Chopta include those via Rudraprayag, Kund, and Ukhimath, or through Gopeshwar and Guptkashi. A Chopta Tungnath trek from Delhi is a popular option for those seeking a weekend getaway.
Activities & Attractions Chopta is a treasure trove for outdoor lovers, offering a variety of activities for your Himalayan adventure:
- Trekking routes: The Chopta Chandrashila trek is a highlight, along with the scenic Deoria Tal trek and other circuit trails. This destination is a perfect option for trekking for beginners in Uttarakhand.
- Adventure offerings: For the more adventurous, there are opportunities for Chopta camping, Chopta snow trek experiences, rock climbing, rappelling, and survival skills training.
- Photography and birdwatching: The sanctuary is a perfect spot for birdwatching, where you can spot elusive species like monal birds, the musk deer Chopta, and pikas in their natural habitat.
Trekking Highlights The Chopta Tungnath trek is the main event and is considered to have a moderate Chopta trek difficulty.
- Chopta to Chandrashila Trek: A typical 3–5 day Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek itinerary starts at Kund (~1,350 m), passes through Deoria Tal, Chopta, and Tungnath Temple, then ascends to the Chandrashila peak (~4,000 m). The steep but rewarding final stretch (~1 km from Tungnath) offers stunning Himalayan panoramas.
- Tungnath Temple: Positioned at about 3,680 m, it is one of the world’s highest Shiva temples in the world. The trail is well-paved with benches and scenic views, making the 5 km ascent from Chopta manageable in 4–5 hours.
Other Points of Interest This Chopta travel guide wouldn't be complete without mentioning a few other key attractions.
- Photographic Highlights: From vantage points across Chopta and Chandrashila, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular Chaukhamba peak view and sightings of 41 other Himalayan peaks from Chandrashila, including Meru, Sumeru, Bandarpunch, and Nanda Devi.
- Additional Treks: Beyond the main trail, visit the tranquil Deoria Tal (~2,350 m), Atrimuni Falls, and the expansive Chopta Bugyal (meadows) situated around 2,849 m.
Climate & Best Time to Visit Knowing the best time to visit Chopta is crucial for your trip planning.
- March to May: Delightfully cool (10 °C to 30 °C), ideal for trekking in Uttarakhand and sightseeing. The Chopta weather in May is particularly pleasant.
- November to March (Winter): Snowfall transforms Chopta into a beautiful winter wonderland. Temperatures range from -15 °C to 15 °C. The Chopta winter trek is a popular choice, though snow can reach depths of 4–7 ft by January, sometimes obstructing routes. An alternate access during heavy snow is via the Deoria Tal trek (~10–12 km) starting from Saari Village.
Destinations Near Chopta Your adventure doesn't have to end in Chopta. The region is surrounded by other captivating destinations worth exploring:
- Ukhimath: Known as the winter seat of the Kedarnath temple, Ukhimath is a culturally rich town with a stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
- Sari Village: The base for the Deoria Tal trek, this quaint village offers a glimpse into local Garhwali life.
- Gopeshwar: This town is famous for the ancient Gopinath Temple and is a crucial stop on the pilgrimage circuit.
- Kalimath: One of the Shakti Peeths, this sacred spot is a major pilgrimage center with a tranquil atmosphere.
- Madhyamaheshwar: As part of the Panch Kedar, the trek to Madhyamaheshwar is a more challenging but equally rewarding spiritual journey.
Chopta Tungnath: The Ultimate Guide to Uttarakhand's Hidden Gem
Introduction Welcome to Chopta Uttarakhand, a pristine region of alpine meadows (bugyals) and evergreen forests nestled within the breathtaking Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary in India. Often called the "Mini Switzerland of India" for its serene beauty, Chopta is the perfect base for your next Himalayan adventure. This region is your gateway to the iconic Chopta Tungnath trek, an experience that combines spiritual pilgrimage with exhilarating Himalayan treks.
From an altitude of over 2,600 meters, this serene spot in the Rudraprayag district offers panoramic views of legendary peaks like Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Nanda Devi. The landscape, rich with deodar, pine, and vibrant rhododendron forests, is a haven for diverse wildlife and a dream for anyone passionate about trekking in Uttarakhand.
Location & Access If you're wondering how to reach Chopta Tungnath, you'll find it's well-connected by motorable roads, making it an ideal choice for an offbeat places in Uttarakhand adventure. Here's a quick look at the distances:
- ~45 km from Ukhimath
- ~162 km from Rishikesh
- ~450 km from Delhi
Popular routes to Chopta include those via Rudraprayag, Kund, and Ukhimath, or through Gopeshwar and Guptkashi. A Chopta Tungnath trek from Delhi is a popular option for those seeking a weekend getaway.
Activities & Attractions Chopta is a treasure trove for outdoor lovers, offering a variety of activities for your Himalayan adventure:
- Trekking routes: The Chopta Chandrashila trek is a highlight, along with the scenic Deoria Tal trek and other circuit trails. This destination is a perfect option for trekking for beginners in Uttarakhand.
- Adventure offerings: For the more adventurous, there are opportunities for Chopta camping, Chopta snow trek experiences, rock climbing, rappelling, and survival skills training.
- Photography and birdwatching: The sanctuary is a perfect spot for birdwatching, where you can spot elusive species like monal birds, the musk deer Chota, and pikas in their natural habitat.
Trekking Highlights The Chopta Tungnath trek is the main event and is considered to have a moderate Chopta trek difficulty.
- Chopta to Chandrashila Trek: A typical 3–5 day Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek itinerary starts at Kund (~1,350 m), passes through Deoria Tal, Chopta, and Tungnath Temple, then ascends to the Chandrashila peak (~4,000 m). The steep but rewarding final stretch (~1 km from Tungnath) offers stunning Himalayan panoramas.
- Tungnath Temple: Positioned at about 3,680 m, it is one of the world’s highest Shiva temples in the world. The trail is well-paved with benches and scenic views, making the 5 km ascent from Chopta manageable in 4–5 hours.
FAQs about the Chopta Tungnath Trek
Q1: What is the best time to visit Chopta?
The best time to visit depends on your preference. For pleasant weather and clear trails, plan your trip between March and May. For a magical snow experience, visit from November to March for the Chopta winter trek, though be prepared for very cold temperatures and potential road closures.
Q2: How difficult is the Chopta Tungnath trek?
The Chopta trek difficulty is considered moderate. The trail to Tungnath is well-maintained and can be completed by beginners. The final climb to the Chandrashila summit is steeper but is short and can be done by anyone with a decent fitness level.
Q3: Is the Chopta Chandrashila trek safe for solo travelers?
Yes, the trek is generally safe. The trail is well-defined, and many other trekkers and guides are present. However, for a safer experience, especially for beginners or during winter, it's recommended to hire a local guide or join a reputable Chopta tour package.
Q4: Can I find accommodation in Chopta?
Yes, there are several accommodation options available, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays to comfortable camps. Chopta camping is a very popular choice among trekkers.
Q5: What should I pack for the trek?
Given the high altitude, it's essential to pack warm clothing, even in summer. Sturdy trekking shoes, rain gear (especially for the monsoon season), a first-aid kit, and essential medicines are a must. For a Chopta winter trek, pack layers, thermal wear, and waterproof boots.