Chopta Trek Itinerary: Step-by-Step Guide to Tungnath and Chandrashila

Published on November 09, 2025

The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek feels like walking through a living postcard, where forests hum softly and peaks glow like silver candles. This journey is perfect for travelers booking a Chopta Tour Package or planning an adventure-filled chopta tour package from Delhi. The trail begins in the quiet meadows of Chopta, rises gently toward Tungnath the highest Shiva temple in the world and finally leads you to Chandrashila, a summit known for sunrise views that can reset your entire mood. With simple routes, rich scenery, and a mix of spirituality and thrill, this trek is loved by beginners and seasoned hikers alike. This route gives you steady climbs, calm rest spots, and a summit reward that feels like touching the sky.

How to Reach Chopta from Major Cities

By Dehradun
From Dehradun, Chopta sits like a quiet green hideout tucked about 200 kilometers away. You can take a bus or hire a cab toward Rudraprayag or Ukhimath and then continue straight to Chopta. The road curves through pine forests and mountain streams, making the journey feel like the warm-up lap for the chopta Tungnath Trek.

By Rishikesh
If you're starting from Rishikesh, the route to Chopta follows the holy river and then climbs into peaceful hill country. Shared jeeps and buses run toward Srinagar and Rudraprayag, from where Chopta is just a scenic drive away. Many trekkers choose this route because it’s smooth, budget-friendly, and perfect before beginning the climb to Tungnath and Chandrashila.

By Delhi
Travelers planning the chopta chandrashila trek from delhi often choose an overnight bus or cab to reach Rishikesh or Haridwar first. From there, the road to Chopta unfolds like a mountain story waiting to be explored. The Delhi route is popular among weekend hikers because it connects quickly and offers a comfortable transition from city lights to alpine silence.

Day-Wise Plan – Chopta Tour Itinerary with TourMyHoliday

DAY 0: Delhi to Rishikesh to Sari Village

Journey Start Time: Depart from Akshardham Metro Station at 10:00 PM.
Begin your overnight journey towards Sari Village via Rishikesh.

DAY 1: Devprayag Sangam and Deoriatal

Stop at Devprayag: Witness the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers during the journey.
Arrival at Sari Village: Check in to your homestay and freshen up.
Trek to Deoriatal: Start your trek (2 . 5 km, approx. 1.5-2 hours).
Enjoy Deoriatal: Relax and take in the serene views of the lake.
Return to Sari Village: Enjoy a lively bonfire and DJ night, followed by a delicious dinner.

DAY 2: Sari Village to Tungnath & Chandrashila

Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your homestay.
Drive to Chopta: About 1 hour from Sari Village.
Trek to Tungnath Temple: 3.5 km trek.
Chandrashila Summit: An additional 1.5 km from Tungnath.
Return to Chopta/Sari: After completing your treks, head back for an overnight stay Sari at village.

DAY 3: Sari Village to Delhi

Breakfast: Have an early breakfast at your Stay.
Early Morning Departure: Leave Sari village early in the morning.
Visit Dhari Devi Temple: Stop on your way back.
Return to Delhi: A long drive of approximately 10-12 hours.

chopta tour package from delhi

Best Time to Start Your Trek

The mountains around Chopta wake up slowly, so early morning is your best friend here. Most trekkers begin the climb between 4:30 AM and 6:00 AM, when the forest is calm, the sky is clear, and the light feels like it’s guiding every step. This timing works perfectly whether you’re doing the classic chopta tungnath trek, the tougher Chopta Chandrashila Trek from Delhi, or following a planned chopta tungnath chandrashila trek itinerary.

Starting early helps you avoid mid-day heat, slippery patches, and sudden clouds that often roll in after noon. It also gives you a front-row seat to sunrise views that feel almost unreal from Chandrashila. For most travelers, the best time to visit Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila is during spring and autumn, when the trails are open, the weather is steady, and the mountains shine in full color.

Beginning your trek early doesn’t just save time. It opens the door to a quieter, safer, and more magical journey through the hills.

Exploring the Sacred Tungnath Temple

Reaching Tungnath feels like stepping into an ancient story carved out of stone and wind. This temple sits high above the tree line, quiet yet powerful, as if the mountains themselves are guarding it. Whether you begin the chopta tungnath trek from delhi or arrive directly from Chopta, the trail to this shrine carries a special kind of stillness. Every turn feels like a soft reminder that you’re walking through one of the highest Shiva temples in the world.

The tungnath temple trek is short but steep, rising through meadows packed with color in summer and wrapped in snow in winter. Travelers who continue onward during the chandrashila summit trek often stop here to rest, pray, or simply breathe in the crisp air. The stone walls, small bells, and distant peaks create a moment you don’t forget easily.

Visiting Tungnath isn’t just about reaching a landmark. It’s about feeling the quiet pulse of the Himalayas, touching a place where nature and faith meet, and carrying that peace with you as the trail leads higher toward Chandrashila.

Trek from Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit

The climb from Tungnath to Chandrashila feels like the trail suddenly grows wings. After finishing the peaceful tungnath trek, the path rises sharply toward an open ridge where the wind sounds like it’s carrying stories from a thousand peaks. This final stretch of the chandrashila trek is short, crisp, and full of drama, with each step lifting you closer to a 360-degree view that hikers talk about for years.

The terrain changes fast here. Meadows shrink, rocks take over, and the air gets thinner but fresher. If you’re doing the popular tungnath chandrashila trek from delhi, this is the moment your entire journey leads to. The summit greets you with a panorama that looks like the Himalayas have unfolded themselves just for you. Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath stand tall like a ring of giants watching over the valley.

Reaching Chandrashila isn’t only about touching the top. It’s the feeling of watching the sky burn gold at sunrise, the silence wrapping around you like a warm shawl, and the sense that you’ve stepped into the heart of the mountains. This final trek from Tungnath turns a great journey into an unforgettable one.

Trek from Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit

The terrain changes fast here. Meadows shrink, rocks take over, and the air gets thinner but fresher. If you’re doing the popular Tungnath Chandrashila Trek From Delhi, this is the moment your entire journey leads to. The summit greets you with a panorama that looks like the Himalayas have unfolded themselves just for you. Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath stand tall like a ring of giants watching over the valley.

Sunrise Views from Chandrashila: What to Expect

Watching the sunrise from Chandrashila feels like standing at the edge of a giant doorway where the sky lifts its curtain right in front of you. After completing the chopta chandrashila trek from delhi or even the more demanding chandrashila summit trek, you reach a peak where silence rules and the air tastes sharp and cold.

As the first light spreads across the valley, the mountains begin to glow like they’re waking up in slow motion. The horizon turns from deep blue to soft orange, and soon the famous peaks — Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Trishul — start shining as if someone polished them overnight. The whole scene feels like a quiet celebration between the sky and the Himalayas.

Up on Chandrashila, your breath mixes with the morning wind, and time moves a little slower. The sunrise here isn’t just a moment to admire. It feels like a reward the mountains give only to those who dared to climb in the dark. It’s the kind of view that stays with you long after you’ve stepped off the summit.

What to Expect

A sharp, cold breeze that wakes you up faster than any alarm during the chopta chandrashila trek from delhi.
A sky that shifts from deep midnight blue to faint gold within minutes.
The first sunrays hitting Chaukhamba like a spotlight on a giant crystal.
A 360-degree view that feels like the Himalayas are opening their arms.
Colors spreading across the valley like someone is painting the world in warm strokes.
The peaks of Kedarnath, Trishul, and Nanda Devi glowing one by one as the light reaches them.
Complete silence, broken only by the soft crunch of snow or stones beneath boots.
A moment during the chandrashila summit trek where the whole sky looks like it’s catching fire.
A feeling of standing above the clouds, watching the world wake up far below.
A quiet, powerful sense of achievement that stays with you long after you climb down.

Where to Stay and Eat in Chopta

Chopta keeps things simple, warm, and close to nature. Most stays here feel like tiny mountain hideouts tucked between forests and rolling meadows. You’ll find cozy camps, wooden homestays, and small lodges where the mornings smell like pine and fresh air. Rooms aren’t fancy, but they carry that peaceful hill-station charm that travelers secretly hope for.

If you want a quiet night under a sky full of stars, camps near the meadows are perfect. For a softer bed and hot water after a long trek, homestays around Sari, Baniya Kund, and Chopta market work well. Many places offer basic heating, warm blankets, and views that look like postcards.

Food in Chopta is simple but comforting. Think hot aloo parathas, steaming maggi, rajma-chawal, and chai that tastes sweeter in the cold. Small dhabas line the road, serving quick meals made fresh, often with a smile and a story. Don’t expect big menus, but the warmth of the food makes up for it.

Staying and eating in Chopta isn’t about luxury. It’s about feeling close to the mountains, filling your stomach with something warm, and letting the quiet of the Himalayas settle into your day.

Essential Gear Checklist for the Trek

Packing for Chopta, Tungnath, and Chandrashila is like preparing for a friendly duel with the mountains. The trail is beautiful, but it expects you to come ready. Here’s a simple, clear checklist to keep your journey smooth and safe:

Trekking Shoes
Wear sturdy, high-grip shoes. Slippery mud, loose stones, and snow patches don’t forgive casual footwear.
Warm Clothing Layers
Carry thermals, fleece, a windproof jacket, and a waterproof outer layer. The weather shifts fast, especially near Tungnath and Chandrashila.
Gloves and Woolen Cap
Keep your fingers and ears safe from icy winds at higher altitudes.
Raincoat or Poncho
Sudden showers and mist are common, even outside monsoon season.
Backpack (40–50L)
Light, strong, and comfortable for carrying essentials without tiring you out.
Trekking Poles
Super helpful during steep climbs and even more during the descent.
Headlamp or Torch
Needed for early-morning starts toward the summit.
Water Bottle (1–2 liters)
Stay hydrated, even if the cool weather hides your thirst.
Energy Snacks
Carry dry fruits, energy bars, or chocolates for quick boosts on steep sections.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses
The mountain sun hits harder than it looks.
First-Aid Kit
Include band-aids, pain relievers, crepe bandage, and personal medicines.
Power Bank
Mobile networks fade, but your phone should stay alive for photos and navigation.
ID Proof
Needed at stays and checkpoints.

Packing these essentials keeps you ready for every twist the trail throws at you, letting you focus on the views instead of the worries.

chopta tour package

Fitness and Preparation Tips

Getting ready for the Chopta, Tungnath, and Chandrashila trails isn’t about building superhero strength. It’s about tuning your body so it can walk steady, breathe easy, and enjoy every step the mountains offer. Here’s a simple prep guide to help you move with confidence:

Start with Daily Walks
Aim for 3 to 5 km each day. The trail feels friendlier when your legs already know the rhythm.
Add Stair Climbing
Tungnath has steep sections, so practice by climbing stairs for 10 to 15 minutes. It builds leg power without needing a gym.
Focus on Breathing Exercises
Slow, deep breathing helps your lungs adjust to higher altitudes. A few minutes of pranayama works wonders.
Build Core Strength
Simple planks, light squats, and leg raises help you stay stable on uneven paths.
Practice Carrying a Backpack
Walk with a small load so your shoulders and back get used to the weight you’ll carry on the trek.
Stay Hydrated Before the Trip
Good hydration keeps altitude fatigue away. Drink water regularly in the days leading up to the trek.
Avoid Heavy Junk Food
Stick to light, balanced meals. Your body climbs better when it isn’t busy fighting bloating or fatigue.
Do Short Weekend Hikes if Possible
Even one or two small hikes prepare your mind and muscles for long walking days.
Rest Well Before the Trek
Sleep is underrated. Arrive fresh so you don’t feel drained on day one.
Know Your Pace
Walk slow, steady, and with breaks. Treks aren’t races. They’re journeys meant to be enjoyed, not rushed.

With the right preparation, the trail feels less like a challenge and more like a conversation with the mountains.

Weather Considerations Along the Route

The Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila trail changes its mood like a mountain storyteller, shifting from soft sunshine to chilly winds within minutes. Knowing what to expect helps you walk with ease instead of worry.

Cold Mornings, Even in Summer
Early hours often feel sharp and icy. Layers are your best friends when starting before sunrise.
Sudden Cloud Cover
The sky may look clear at Chopta, but higher sections near Tungnath can wrap themselves in fog without warning. Always keep a jacket and stay close to marked paths.
Windy Ridge Near Chandrashila
As you climb toward the summit, the breeze becomes stronger and colder. Grip your cap, tighten your jacket, and move slow on exposed stretches.
Snow in Winter Months
From December to February, expect snow-covered steps, frozen patches, and slick rocks. Trekking poles and good shoes matter a lot here.
Sunny Yet Cold Afternoons
The sun often shines bright, but the air carries a chill. Sunscreen protects your skin, while a light jacket keeps the wind away.
Quick Temperature Drops After Sunset
The moment the sun dips behind the peaks, the cold rushes in fast. Plan to reach Chopta before evening so you avoid walking in freezing dark.
Possible Rain in Monsoon and Post-Monsoon
Trails get muddy and slippery from July to early September. Ponchos help, but be extra cautious on stone steps.

The weather along this route is part of the journey. When you’re ready for its surprises, the trail feels safer, smoother, and a lot more enjoyable.

Permits, Costs, and Local Guidelines

The Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila trail keeps things simple, but a little information goes a long way in keeping your journey smooth and respectful of the mountains.

No Major Permits Required
You don’t need special trekking permits for Tungnath or Chandrashila. Basic entry fees apply in forest zones, usually collected at starting points like Sari or Baniya Kund.
Forest Entry Charges
A small fee is charged per person and sometimes for cameras. These funds support trail maintenance and forest protection.
Guide Charges
Hiring a local guide is affordable and helpful, especially in winter or in heavy fog. Rates vary by season, but local guides are well-trained and know safe routes.
Stay and Food Costs
Camps, homestays, and lodges offer budget to mid-range options. Prices shift slightly during peak months, but Chopta stays are generally pocket-friendly.
Transport Costs
Shared jeeps and private cabs operate from places like Rishikesh, Ukhimath, and Rudraprayag. If you’re coming with a group, sharing a vehicle keeps it cheaper.
Respect Local Customs
Tungnath is a sacred temple, so maintain silence, dress modestly, and avoid stepping into restricted areas around the shrine.
No Littering Rules
Chopta is part of a protected forest region. Carry your trash with you and avoid plastic wherever possible.
Stay on Marked Trails
Trails may look open, but stepping off-path can harm the fragile alpine environment and put you at risk.
Avoid Loud Music
Wildlife zones demand peace. Keep music low or enjoy the natural soundscape instead.
Support Local Businesses
Buy snacks, tea, or handmade items from local stalls. It helps the community that keeps the trek alive and beautiful.

Following these simple rules ensures you travel responsibly, protect the environment, and enjoy the trek without any trouble.

Final Tips for a Smooth Chopta Trek Experience

Walking through the forests and meadows of Chopta feels like moving inside a giant storybook, but a few smart habits can turn your journey into an even smoother adventure. Whether you’re starting the chopta tungnath trek from delhi, climbing the steep stones of the Tungnath Temple Trek, or pushing toward the final ridge of the chandrashila trek, these tips help you travel with confidence and calm.

Start early, even before the world wakes up. The trails are clearer, the views are sharper, and the winds are gentler. Keep your pace steady on the tungnath trek, especially on the steep sections where the path narrows. Drink small sips of water often, even if the cold hides your thirst.

Carry light layers instead of bulky jackets. The weather near Tungnath and Chandrashila loves to shift moods, and quick layering helps you stay warm without feeling loaded down. Always check the sky before moving higher; fog can roll in fast, making the trail tricky.

Stay with marked paths. Shortcuts may look tempting, but they often lead to loose stones, hidden drops, or fragile slopes. Respect the mountains and they’ll guide you safely.

Most importantly, listen to your body. Take breaks when your breath feels heavy, enjoy the silence when the wind settles, and let the views remind you why you climbed in the first place. With the right rhythm and mindset, the Chopta journey becomes less about reaching the top and more about savoring every step along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the best time to visit Chopta for snow trekking?
The best time to visit Chopta for winter trekking is December to February, when Chopta experiences heavy snowfall, creating ideal conditions for the Chopta Chandrashila Trek from Delhi.
How difficult is the Chopta Tungnath Trek for beginners?
The Tungnath trek is rated easy to moderate, with well-defined trails. Beginners can comfortably complete it, especially when part of a Chopta tour package with guides.
Can I do the Chandrashila trek in winter if I’m a first-time trekker?
Yes! The Chandrashila trek is beginner-friendly if you have proper winter gear and follow a Tungnath-Chandrashila trek itinerary with an experienced guide.
How long does a typical winter trek in Chopta last?
Most winter itineraries last 2 nights and 3 days, covering the Tungnath temple trek, the Chandrashila summit trek, and scenic Chopta meadows.
What should I pack for a winter trek in Chopta?
Essentials include thermal wear, waterproof jackets, woolen gloves, trekking boots, microspikes or crampons, sunglasses, sunscreen, and warm snacks — all recommended in a Chopta tour package from Delhi.
How do I reach Chopta from Delhi safely in winter?
The most common route is Delhi → Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta. Using a Chopta tour package from Delhi ensures safe travel, road updates, and guidance on snow conditions.
Are accommodations available during winter in Chopta?
Yes! Most winter stays are cozy cottages or homestays, often included in Chopta tour packages. Hot water, meals, and trekking assistance make winter stays comfortable for beginners.
Do I need a guide for the Tungnath-Chandrashila trek?
While experienced trekkers can go solo, guides are highly recommended in winter. They ensure safety on icy trails and help beginners complete the Tungnath-Chandrashila trek comfortably.
What is the cost of a Chopta winter trek package from Delhi?
Budget-friendly packages start around ₹6,500–9,500 per person, while premium packages with private transport and stays can go up to ₹12,000–18,000. Packages cover travel, stay, meals, and guides.
Is trekking safe during heavy snowfall in Chopta?
Winter trekking is safe with proper gear and guides. However, extreme snowfall may temporarily block roads or trails. Chopta tour packages from Delhi often adjust itineraries for safety while ensuring you enjoy Chopta snowfall fully.