Chopta to Tungnath: Trek to One of the Highest Shiva Temples

Published on April 21, 2025

The Chopta-Tungnath trek is one of the most beautiful and rewarding short treks in Uttarakhand. Known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Chopta is the starting point for two famous trails: the classic Chopta-Tungnath trek that leads to the world’s highest Shiva temple at 3,680 meters, and the slightly longer Chopta Chandrashila Trek that continues to the 4,000-meter Chandrashila summit for breathtaking 360° views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, and Chaukhamba.

This easy-to-moderate 5–7 km (one-way) trail passes through dense rhododendron and oak forests, open bugyals (meadows), and colorful flowers in spring. The 1,000-year-old Tungnath Temple, third of the sacred Panch Kedar temples, gives the journey a special spiritual touch that draws both devotees and adventure lovers.

Ideal for beginners, families, and weekend getaways from Delhi (around 400 km), the entire Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila trek can be completed comfortably in 2-3 days. Thanks to affordable and well-organized Chopta Tour Packages available throughout the year, more and more people are discovering this perfect mix of nature, adventure, and peace, and Himalayan beauty in every season.

Tungnath: The Highest Shiva Temple in the World

At 3,680 meters (12,073 ft), Tungnath proudly holds the title of the highest Shiva temple in the world and the highest of the five Panch Kedar temples. Built over 1,000 years ago in the North-Indian Nagara style, this ancient stone shrine stands peacefully amid towering Himalayan peaks, where silence feels sacred and the air carries centuries of devotion. The Tungnath Temple trek is not just a physical journey — it is a pilgrimage that blends adventure with spirituality.

Legend says that after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva for their sins. Shiva, unwilling to forgive easily, disappeared into the form of a bull. When the Pandavas finally caught him at this very spot in the Garhwal Himalayas, the hump of the bull emerged here — hence Tungnath (Lord of the Peaks) came into existence. The arms appeared at Tungnath’s sister temple Madmaheshwar, making it the third Kedar in the revered Panch Kedar circuit.

Key highlights that make Tungnath Temple trek truly special:

• Ancient stone architecture with intricate carvings, still intact despite harsh weather for centuries
• Only Panch Kedar temple that remains open for a longer period; usually May/June to October/November
• Stunning location surrounded by meadows and 360° views of snow peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedar Dome
• Short but scenic trail (just 3.5–4 km from Chopta, suitable for beginners and families
• Magical sunrise & sunset views when you combine it with nearby Chandrashila Peak

Every year thousands of devotees and trekkers walk the gentle uphill path to seek blessings and witness the raw beauty of the Himalayas. Whether you come for faith, photography, or pure adventure, the Tungnath Temple trek leaves everyone with a sense of peace and wonder that stays long after the journey ends.

Why Tungnath is the Third Kedar in the Panch Kedar Circuit

The Panch Kedar legend begins at the end of the Mahabharata war. Guilty over the bloodshed, the Pandavas wanted Lord Shiva’s forgiveness. Shiva, still angry, turned himself into a bull and vanished into the earth at Guptakashi. When the Pandavas tracked him down, the bull began to sink into the ground. Bhima grabbed its hump, but the body broke into five parts that emerged at five different places in Garhwal — thus creating the five sacred Kedars.

Each part of Shiva’s bull form is worshipped at a separate temple:

• The hump appeared at Kedarnath — the first and most important Kedar.
• The arms surfaced at Tungnath — making it the third Kedar.
• The face emerged at Rudranath — the second Kedar.
• The navel and stomach rose at Madmaheshwar — the fourth Kedar.
• The hair (jata) appeared at Kalpeshwar — the fifth and final Kedar.

Because the arms symbolise strength and protection, Tungnath is called the place where Shiva offers power and refuge to devotees. Among all five, it sits at the highest altitude and is the only one built in classic stone Nagara style that has survived more than a thousand years.

Pilgrims who complete the full Panch Kedar yatra believe that visiting these five shrines in the correct order washes away even the heaviest sins. That is why, even though the trek is short and gentle, thousands walk up every season — not just for the views, but to touch the divine arms of Lord Shiva and feel forgiven.

Chopta – India’s Very Own Mini Switzerland

Tucked at 2,680 meters in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, Chopta is a tiny, untouched, and breathtakingly green. Rolling alpine meadows (locally called bugyals), dense forests of rhododendron, oak and deodar, and constant views of snow-covered peaks make it look exactly like scenes from Switzerland — but without crowds, entry tickets, or overpriced coffee. That’s why locals and travellers started calling it “Mini Switzerland of India” years ago, and the name stuck.

What truly sets Chopta apart:

• Year-round greenery: Unlike most hill stations that turn brown in winter, Chopta stays emerald even under snow.
• Zero concrete chaos: No big hotels, no noisy markets — just a handful of camps, small Maggi points and homestays keep it peaceful.
• 360° Himalayan panorama: Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedar Peak and Panchachuli stay in sight almost every clear day.
• Incredible biodiversity: Red and pink rhododendrons in spring, monal and musk deer sightings, and over 200 bird species recorded.
• Perfect base camp: Starting point for Tungnath-Chandrashila, Deoria Tal, Kartik Swami and Bisuri Tal treks.

In recent years, well-planned Chopta tour packages have made it super easy for families, solo travellers and corporate groups to experience this beauty without any hassle. Most packages include Delhi or Haridwar pickup, stay in Swiss tents or cozy wooden cottages, all meals, guided trek to Tungnath & Chandrashila, bonfire, and stargazing sessions — all at surprisingly affordable rates.

Whether you visit in snowy January, flower-filled April-May, monsoon-green July-August, or golden autumn October-November, Chopta feels like a secret slice of Europe hidden in the Himalayas — quiet, clean, and impossibly pretty.

Best Time to Do the Tungnath Trek (Season-wise Breakdown)

The Chopta-Tungnath trek is open almost round the year except for the peak winter months when heavy snow closes the temple. Each season paints the landscape differently, so the “best” time depends on what experience you want. Here’s a clear season-wise guide to help you plan your Chopta Tungnath trek from Delhi or Chopta Chandrashila trek from Delhi (both routes are the same, just 400–450 km / 12–14 hours drive).

• April to June (Summer & Spring – Most Popular) Temperature: 5°C to 20°C daytime, 0°C to 10°C night Rhododendrons bloom in red and pink, meadows turn bright green, and weather is pleasant. Perfect for first-timers, families, and photographers. Clear views of peaks almost every day. Ideal window for weekend Chopta Chandrashila trek from Delhi because roads are fully open and days are long.
• July to September (Monsoon) Temperature: 8°C to 18°C Heavy rain makes the trail slippery and leeches appear, but the meadows become impossibly lush and waterfalls are in full flow. Fewer crowds, lower prices on Chopta tour packages. Only recommended for experienced trekkers who don’t mind rain gear and occasional road blocks.
• October to November (Autumn – Best Views) Temperature: 0°C to 15°C daytime, -5°C to 5°C night Crystal-clear skies, golden grasslands, and zero haze — this is when you get postcard-perfect 360° views from Chandrashila. Many travellers call this the absolute best period for Chopta Tungnath trek from Delhi.
• December to March (Winter & Snow) Temperature: -10°C to 5°C, heavy snow after mid-December Temple closes around Diwali and reopens in April/May. Trek turns into a proper snow trek (crampons/gaiters needed). Only the first 1–2 km is doable for most tourists; reaching Tungnath/Chandrashila requires guides and gear. Magical for snow lovers, but not for beginners.

Quick recommendation chart:

• First-timers & families → April–June Clearest Himalayan views → October–November Snow experience → January–February (with proper winter guidance) Budget & solitude → September or early October

Book your Chopta Tungnath trek from Delhi or Chopta Chandrashila Trek from Delhi keeping these months in mind, and you’ll come back with memories (and photos) that last a lifetime.

How to Reach Chopta (By Road, Train, Bus & Flight)

Chopta is roughly 400–450 km from Delhi and 200–220 km from Rishikesh/Haridwar, making it a perfect long-weekend destination. Here are all the practical ways to reach in 2025:

By Road (Most Common & Flexible)

• Self-drive/Private taxi: Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Roorkee → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta (12–14 hrs). Road condition is excellent till Rudraprayag; last 30 km from Ukhimath is narrow but well-paved.
• Chopta Tour Package from Delhi: The easiest option. Most packages include AC Innova/Tempo Traveller pickup from Delhi/NCR, night journey on Friday, reaching Chopta Saturday morning and drop back Monday morning. Price starts ₹5,999–₹8,999 per person (2025 rates).

By Overnight Bus

• Deluxe Volvo/AC sleeper buses daily from ISBT Kashmere Gate & Anand Vihar (Delhi) to Rudraprayag/Srinagar/Ukhimath (₹900–₹1,800).
• From Ukhimath/Rudrapayag take shared jeep or local bus to Chopta (₹80–₹150, 1–1.5 hrs, frequent till 3 pm). Pro tip: Book 8 pm bus from Delhi → reach Ukhimath by 7–8 am → freshen up at hotel → straight to Chopta.

By Train + Road

Best trains from Delhi to Haridwar/Dehradun/Rishikesh:

• 12017 Dehradun Shatabdi (6:45 am arrival)
• 12401 Kota-Dehradun AC Express
• 19565 Uttaranchal Express From station take prepaid taxi or shared cab to Chopta (₹4,500–₹6,000 one way for 4 people).

By Flight

Nearest airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun (230 km). Daily flights from Delhi (1 hr). From airport: Pre-booked taxi ₹4,500–₹5,500 or airport bus till Rishikesh → shared cab onwards.

Quick comparison (Delhi to Chopta)

• Fastest → Flight + taxi (7–8 hrs total)
• Cheapest → Overnight bus + shared jeep (₹1,200–₹2,000 round trip)
• Most comfortable → Chopta tour package from Delhi (door-to-door, zero planning)

Whichever way you choose, the moment you cross Dugalbita and see the first glimpse of snow peaks, the long journey suddenly feels totally worth it!

Trek Permits and Entry Fees (Latest Update)

As of December 2025, the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila trek remains one of Uttarakhand's most accessible high-altitude adventures, with minimal formalities for permits and fees. Located in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, the trail doesn't require any special trekking permits for Indian citizens, making it ideal for spontaneous trips like a Chopta Tungnath trek from Delhi or Chopta Chandrashila trek from Delhi. Foreign nationals may need basic registration at local forest checkposts, but this is rare and handled on-site. The focus is on a small environmental conservation fee to support the sanctuary's upkeep—think of it as your contribution to preserving the rhododendron forests and Himalayan monals you'll spot along the way.

The Tungnath Temple itself is free to enter year-round (when open), emphasizing its spiritual openness over commercial barriers. However, expect to pay a nominal forest entry fee at the checkpost about 100 meters from Chopta's trailhead—this slip is valid for 3 days and covers the entire route up to Chandrashila. Fees are cash-only, so carry small notes. During peak season (May–November), lines can form, but it's quick. Winter treks (December–April) skip this as the temple closes, but sanctuary access might still apply for snow hikes.

Key details on permits and fees for 2025:

• Forest Entry Permit: Issued at Chopta checkpost; valid 3 days for Tungnath-Chandrashila trail. No advance booking needed.
  • Children under 5: Free
  • Students/Children (5–18 years): ₹38
  • Adults (18+): ₹150
  • Seniors/Students (above 18 with ID): ₹75
  • Foreigners: ₹600
• Tungnath Temple Entry: Completely free—no darshan or puja charges. Donations optional at the hundi. Temple timings: 6 AM–7 PM (May–November).
• Chandrashila Peak Access: Included in the forest permit; no extra fee. Just an additional 1 km steep climb from Tungnath.
• Special Notes for Organized Trips: If you're on a Chopta Chandrashila trek from Delhi package, operators like Trek .
• Winter Updates (Dec 2025–Apr 2026): Temple closed (reopens ~May 2, 2026, per Badri Kedar Temple Committee), but trek to Chandrashila possible with guide. Forest fee waived for snow treks, but check weather—recent December snows have made it magical yet slippery.

This hassle-free setup keeps the focus on the trek's magic: 5 km of meadows, ancient stones, and peak panoramas. Plan ahead, pay on arrival, and let the mountains do the rest!

History, Legend & Spiritual Importance of Tungnath Temple

The Tungnath Temple, standing at 3,680 metres, is more than a thousand years old and widely accepted as the highest Shiva shrine on earth. Historians trace its construction to the late 8th or early 9th century AD, built in the classic North Indian Nagara style with massive interlocking stone slabs—no mortar was used, which is why it has survived earthquakes and heavy snow for over twelve centuries. Local tradition says Adi Shankaracharya rediscovered and renovated the Panch Kedar temples in the 8th century, and he personally installed the present swayambhu (self-manifested) linga inside Tungnath.

The core legend is tied to the Mahabharata. After the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas were haunted by the sin of killing their own kin. They sought Lord Shiva’s darshan to be forgiven, but Shiva kept avoiding them. Finally, at Guptakashi, he took the form of a bull and dived into the ground. When Bhima caught the hump, the bull’s body split into five parts that appeared at five different locations. The arms emerged here at Tungnath (meaning “Lord of the Peaks”), making it the third Kedar. Devotees believe that touching or praying to these divine arms grants strength, protection and instant relief from guilt and sorrow.

Spiritually, Tungnath is unique because:

• It is the only Panch Kedar temple where the priests are from South India (Rawal community from Karnataka), a tradition started by Adi Shankaracharya.
• The idol of Shiva is swayambhu and slightly tilted—legend says it is still moving towards the summit; when it reaches Chandrashila, Kaliyuga will end.
• Many sadhus meditate in nearby caves; some claim the temple bells ring on their own during storms.

For modern pilgrims and trekkers doing the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek from Delhi, the journey ends with a powerful feeling: the physical climb mirrors the inner search for forgiveness and peace that the Pandavas once made. Standing silently in front of the ancient black-stone shrine, surrounded by silent snow peaks, most people feel the same thing—whatever burden they carried from the city suddenly feels lighter.

Is Tungnath Trek Suitable for Beginners, Kids & Senior Citizens?

Yes — the Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila trek is one of the most beginner-, kid- and senior-friendly high-altitude treks in the entire Himalayas. Here’s an honest breakdown (2025 updated):

For Complete Beginners

• Distance: Only 4–5 km one way from Chopta to Tungnath (another 1–1.5 km to Chandrashila).
• Gradient: Well-defined stone-paved + dirt trail, never too steep (average 300–400 m height gain per hour).
• Time: 2–3.5 hours up at leisurely pace, 1.5–2 hours down.
• Facilities: Maggi points, tea stalls and resting benches every 1 km. Ponies & porters available throughout the season (₹800–1,500 round trip). Verdict: Perfect first Himalayan trek. Thousands of college students and office-goers do it every weekend from Delhi without any prior experience.

For Children (6 years and above)

• Hundreds of families bring kids every season. Children aged 8–14 finish it easily.
• 6–8 year olds can walk or ride ponies (small ponies ₹1,000–1,200).
• No technical sections, no narrow ridges, no river crossings — very safe.
• Parents usually prefer April–June or Oct–Nov when weather is pleasant and days are long. Real feedback: “My 9-year-old walked the whole way and reached Chandrashila for sunrise — best family trip ever.”

For Senior Citizens (60–75 years)

• Fit and active seniors in their 60s and early 70s complete it comfortably on foot.
• Seniors 70+ or with knee issues take ponies till Tungnath temple (ponies cannot go to Chandrashila).
• Altitude gain is gradual (2,700 m at Chopta → 3,680 m at Tungnath), so acute mountain sickness is rare if you stay hydrated and don’t rush.
• Many senior groups from Delhi book Chopta tour packages that include mules, walking sticks, oxygen cans and experienced guides.

Quick Suitability Checklist

Category	Walk on foot	Pony option	Recommended months
Beginners	Yes	Yes	Apr–Jun, Oct–Nov
Kids (6–14 yrs)	Yes	Yes	Apr–Jun, Oct–Nov
Seniors (60–70 yrs)	Mostly yes	Yes	Apr–May, Oct–Nov
Seniors (70+ or knee issues)	Temple only	Yes	Same

Bottom line: If you can climb 12–15 floors of stairs without getting completely out of breath, you can easily do Tungnath on foot. For everyone else, ponies and helpful locals make it possible. It truly is a trek where the entire family — from 6 to 76 — can reach a 3,680 m Shiva temple together.

Chandrashila Summit: 360° Views of Nanda Devi, Trishul & Chaukhamba

Just 1.5 km and 45–70 minutes above Tungnath temple lies the small rocky dome of Chandrashila (Moon Rock) at 4,000 metres — the grand finale of every Chopta trek. The moment you step onto the summit, the entire Garhwal Himalaya explodes into view in a jaw-dropping 360° panorama that many call the single best viewpoint accessible to beginners in Uttarakhand.

From the tiny temple atop Chandrashila, the horizon is filled with India’s most famous peaks standing in a perfect semicircle:

• East: Nanda Devi (7,816 m) – India’s second-highest mountain, glowing golden at sunrise
• Northeast: Nanda Ghunti, Trishul (7,120 m) three spears piercing the sky
• North: Chaukhamba massif (7,138 m) – four majestic summits looking close enough to touch
• West: Kedar Dome, Meru, Sumeru, Mandani, Janhukut and the Gangotri range on clear days
• South: Rolling green bugyals of Chopta and distant plains of Haridwar

Why Chandrashila summit trek feels so special:

• Short final push: Steep but well-marked rocky steps; even kids and seniors reach with basic fitness
• Sunrise magic: Most people start at 3–4 am from Chopta or sleep at Tungnath to catch the first rays hitting Nanda Devi — an experience that regularly goes viral on Instagram
• Winter wonderland: December–March turns it into a snow dome; microspikes recommended, views become even more dramatic under fresh snow
• Meditation spot: Ancient sadhus used this summit for tapasya; you’ll still find small stone shelters and a sense of absolute silence
• Zero crowd on weekdays: Unlike Triund or Kedarkantha, Chandrashila still feels peaceful outside weekends

The Chandrashila trek itself is only 5–6 km one-way from Chopta (including Tungnath), yet it delivers views that rival multi-day high-altitude expeditions. That’s why weekend warriors from Delhi now treat the Chandrashila summit trek as the perfect “big mountain” experience without needing a week off or hardcore training.

Stand here for ten minutes, spin slowly once, and you’ll understand why every trekker says the same thing: “The extra 1 km was totally worth it.”

Safety Tips & How to Avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

The Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila trek is statistically one of the safest in the Himalayas, but altitude jumps from 2,700 m (Chopta) to 4,000 m (Chandrashila) in just 5–6 hours. While serious AMS cases are rare, headache, nausea or breathlessness can spoil the trip if ignored. Follow these practical rules and you’ll stay 100 % safe.

General Safety Guidelines

• Never trek alone in winter or monsoon; always have at least one companion and inform your homestay/camp owner about your plan.
• Carry a fully charged phone + power bank; Airtel/Jio work till Tungnath, BSNL till Chandrashila.
• Download offline maps (Maps.me or AllTrails) — mobile network can vanish above the temple.
• Keep ₹500–1000 in small change for pony/porter emergency or sudden tea bills.
• No alcohol or smoking 24 hours before and during the trek — it worsens dehydration and AMS risk.

How to Prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

• Arrive in Chopta one day early or at least one night early — sleep at 2,700 m before going higher (most Delhi weekend groups skip this and feel mild headache).
• Drink 4–5 litres of water daily from Chopta onwards; add electoral or glucose to fight dehydration.
• Walk slowly (“baba speed”) — take 10–15 steps → pause → breathe. Reach Tungnath in 3–3.5 hrs instead of racing in 90 minutes.
• Eat light but frequent: carry dry fruits, chocolates, biscuits. Avoid heavy oily meals.
• Medication (only if needed):
  • Diamox 125 mg twice daily starting 24 hrs before leaving Delhi (consult doctor first).
  • Paracetamol + Avomine for headache/nausea.
  • Small portable oxygen cans (₹600–700) available in Chopta shops — useful for seniors.
• Golden rule: If headache + vomiting + extreme tiredness hits, descend immediately. Symptoms usually disappear within 30–60 minutes of going down.

Follow these simple steps and 99.9 % of people — including kids and 70+ seniors — finish the trek smiling, with zero issues. Safe travels and happy summit!

Food & Water Availability on the Trail

One of the biggest advantages of the Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila trek is that you never go hungry or thirsty — the trail is dotted with small stalls and dhabas almost the entire way, making it perfect even for solo travellers or weekend Chopta Chandrashila Trek groups who don’t want to carry heavy loads.

Here’s the exact breakdown :

• Chopta base (starting point): Multiple camps, GMVN rest house and 7–8 Maggi points open from 6 AM to 8 PM. Full meals (roti-sabzi, rajma-chawal, paratha) ₹100–180, packed lunch ₹150.
• First 1 km: 2–3 tea stalls selling hot lemon tea, Maggi, biscuits, chocolates, boiled eggs & cold drinks.
• Midway (2–2.5 km mark): Biggest cluster of 4–5 permanent wooden dhabas. Menu: Maggi, omelette, chowmein, soup, thukpa, pakoras, tea/coffee, energy bars. Hot ginger-lemon-honey is everyone’s favourite here.
• Just 200 m below Tungnath temple: Last proper dhaba (summer only) with seating inside. Same menu + fresh parathas.
• Tungnath temple premises: Temple trust runs a free community kitchen (simple dal-chawal-sabzi once a day for pilgrims). Plus 2 private stalls selling tea, Maggi, snacks and packed namkeen.
• Chandrashila summit: No stall (too windy), so carry your own chocolate or biscuits for the final 1 km.

Water situation:

• Natural spring water taps every 500–700 m — crystal clear and safe to drink directly drink (locals drink it daily).
• Refill stations at every dhaba (free or ₹10–20 for bottled if you want sealed).
• Most Chandrashila trek from Delhi packages provide 2 litres packed water per person per day + unlimited tea at camps.

Pro tip: Carry one reusable 1-litre bottle — you’ll refill it 4–5 times for free and save plastic. In winter (Dec–Mar) lower stalls may close, so carry extra snacks from Chopta, but tea is still available near the temple.

Bottom line: You can literally trek with just a small day-pack, wallet and phone — food and water are never more than 20–30 minutes away!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many days are enough to explore Chopta?
   Most travellers find that 3–4 days gives a good balance — enough time for the main treks, sightseeing, and a relaxed pace.

2. When is the best time to visit Chopta?
   The months April–June (spring/summer) and September–November (autumn) are ideal for trekking, clear skies, and pleasant weather.

3. Does Chopta get snowfall and when?
   Yes — during winter (December–February) Chopta often receives snow, transforming the meadows and hills into a snowy landscape.

4. Is Chopta safe to visit?
   Generally yes. Local communities are welcoming and the area is peaceful — but during heavy snow or winter treks, proper gear and caution are recommended.

5. How do I reach Chopta? What’s the nearest airport or railway station?
   The nearest airport is at Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) and nearest railway heads are Rishikesh Railway Station / Haridwar Railway Station. From there, you travel by road via towns like Rudraprayag or Ukhimath.

6. Is trekking possible in winter after snowfall?
   It is possible, but trails become snowy and slippery — use proper snow gear (boots, trekking poles) and, ideally, local guidance.

7. Which treks are popular around Chopta?
   Main treks: Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak; along with options like Deoria Tal — suitable for different levels of trekkers.

8. What kind of accommodation is available in Chopta?
   Options include basic camps or tents, guesthouses, small hotels, or homestays — comfortable enough for trekkers and budget travellers.

9. Are there risks due to weather or road conditions?
   In monsoon (heavy rain) or heavy snowfall, roads/trails may get slippery or blocked. It’s best to check weather/road updates before travelling.

10. Is Chopta suitable for first-time or family travellers?
    Yes — many treks are moderate, and with good planning and weather awareness, Chopta works well even for beginners, couples, or small families.