Chopta Tungnath Trek: A Perfect Blend of Adventure and Spirituality
Published on April 23, 2025
Chopta Tour Package: Why This Himalayan Gem Deserves Your Attention
Chopta tour package offerings are on the rise—and for all the right reasons. Located in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, Chopta is more than a destination; it’s a poetic pause from life’s constant rush. Whether you're a trekker, pilgrim, nature lover, or digital detoxer, Chopta ticks all boxes.
Often called the "Mini Switzerland of India," it charms visitors with lush forests, pristine lakes, spiritual spots, and sweeping Himalayan views. The peaceful atmosphere, birdsong mornings, and dreamy sunrises make it a healing sanctuary. It’s also the starting point for two of the most famous Himalayan treks in India — Tungnath trek and chandrashila summit trek.
Chopta Tour Packages: How to Plan Your Trip
Chopta tour packages cater to various travel styles. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, solo spiritual retreat, or an adventure-packed weekend with friends, there’s a package tailored for you. Tour operators usually customize your itinerary to cover must-visit locations, manage permissions, and even arrange local guides.
What a Typical Package Includes:
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Transport from Delhi (private/shared vehicle)
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Meals (usually breakfast and dinner)
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Accommodation (campsites, homestays, guesthouses)
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Trek guide for tungnath chopta trek
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Excursions to deoriatal lake, dhari devi, sari village, and ukhimath
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Bonfire and cultural activities (seasonal)
Some packages also include travel insurance and oxygen support during winter treks, especially for elderly tourists or first-time high-altitude trekkers.
Chopta Chandrashila Trek from Delhi: Getting There
Chopta chandrashila trek from Delhi starts with a journey through scenic hill roads and historic river confluences. You can reach Chopta by train or road. The most popular route begins with an overnight Volvo from Delhi to Rishikesh or Haridwar.
Recommended Route:
Delhi → Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta
From Rishikesh, you can take a cab or shared taxi to Chopta. Though the road winds along steep valleys, it offers spellbinding views of rivers and forested hills. Expect pitstops at dhabas serving hot parathas and chai—perfect fuel for your mountain road trip!
Chopta Tungnath Trek: A Journey to the Highest Shiva Temple
Chopta tungnath trek is a pilgrimage and a scenic escape rolled into one. Starting at 2,680 meters in Chopta, this trek ascends to 3,680 meters where Tungnath Temple sits—the highest Shiva temple in the world. The trek is accessible almost year-round, but spring and autumn offer the best weather.
Highlights:
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Surreal meadows with rhododendron bloom (March–April)
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Prayer flags fluttering against a clear Himalayan sky
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Spiritual vibes with local sadhus and chants
Tungnath is also one of the Panch Kedar temples, adding mythological significance to your trek.
Chandrashila Summit Trek: Where the Sky Feels Close
Chandrashila summit trek continues for 1.5 km beyond Tungnath. Though steeper and more challenging, it rewards you with one of the most divine sunrise spots in all of Uttarakhand. From the summit (about 4,000 meters), you can see peaks like Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Nanda Devi.
Pro Tips:
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Start the hike before sunrise for golden hour photography.
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Carry layers even in summer; the winds are bone-chilling.
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Take breaks; altitude gain is sharp but manageable.
At the top, meditate or simply sit in silence—this is where many travelers say they feel truly connected to nature and divinity.
Deoriatal Lake: A Detour to Reflection and Silence
Deoriatal lake lies at 2.3 km uphill from sari village, and is often the first stop in a chopta tour package from delhi. The lake reflects the Chaukhamba peaks like a mirror, especially at dawn and dusk.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It:
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Camping under the stars by the lake
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Birdwatching opportunities
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Quiet trail through rhododendron forests
Sari village, the trek’s base, is a lovely hamlet with stone-paved paths and locals offering tea and snacks. It’s a perfect place to start your acclimatization.
Dhari Devi and Ukhimath: Spiritual Anchors of the Region
Dhari Devi temple is located on the banks of the Alaknanda river and is often included in chopta tour packages. It is considered the guardian deity of Uttarakhand and holds a unique place in the state’s spiritual landscape.
Why Visit:
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Mythological significance linked to the Kedarnath region
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Calm riverfront setting
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Stunning views at sunrise and sunset
Ukhimath, on the other hand, becomes the winter abode for Lord Kedarnath. The Omkareshwar Temple here houses the deity during winter, and many pilgrims come here when Kedarnath is closed.
Accommodation in Chopta
Lodging in Chopta is cozy, not luxurious. Most visitors prefer camping or budget lodges. These options are included in most chopta tour packages:
Types of Stays:
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Eco-Camps with bonfires
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Homestays in Sari village
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Guesthouses in Ukhimath
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Adventure tents in Chopta meadow
Book in advance during April–June and September–November to avoid last-minute rush.
Flora and Fauna of Chopta – Nature’s Own Sanctuary
Chopta chandrashila trek runs through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, a biosphere reserve known for its biodiversity.
Flora:
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Oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests
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Alpine wildflowers like Brahma Kamal
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Medicinal plants like Kutki and Jatamansi
Fauna:
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Himalayan Monal (Uttarakhand’s state bird)
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Foxes, barking deer, and Himalayan black bears
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Rare sightings of snow leopards and musk deer in higher altitudes
Carry a small guidebook or bird-watching app to identify species as you trek.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary – Chopta Tour from Delhi
Day 1: Delhi to Sari Village – Deoriatal Lake
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Depart late night from Delhi
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Reach Rishikesh early morning
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Drive to Sari village (6–7 hours)
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Trek to Deoriatal lake, overnight camping
Day 2: Sari – Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila
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Early breakfast
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Drive to Chopta base
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Begin chopta tungnath trek, continue to chandrashila summit trek
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Return to camp/homestay for overnight stay
Day 3: Chopta – Ukhimath – Dhari Devi – Delhi
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Visit Ukhimath and Dhari Devi temple
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Lunch en route
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Drive back to Rishikesh/Haridwar
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Overnight journey to Delhi
What to Eat in Chopta
The food in Chopta is simple, nutritious, and locally sourced. Most accommodations serve vegetarian meals due to religious customs.
Must-Try Local Dishes:
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Aloo ke Gutke: Spicy potato stir-fry with mustard seeds
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Mandua Roti: Millet flatbread
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Jhangora Kheer: Sweet porridge made with barnyard millet
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Buransh Juice: Refreshing drink made from rhododendron flowers
Tip: Carry snacks for the trek—energy bars, nuts, or trail mix.
Why Choose a Chopta Tour Package from Delhi?
Perks of Pre-Planned Packages:
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No hassle with transport and logistics
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Expert guides who understand the terrain
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Customizable itineraries with flexible stays
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Cost-effective for groups and families
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Inclusive of all permits and meals
These packages let you focus on soaking up the experience instead of worrying about where to go next.
Final Thoughts: Let Chopta Change You
The chopta tungnath trek from delhi isn't just a trip; it's an inner transformation. As you walk through ancient trails, listen to temple bells, and gaze at the starry sky over deoriatal lake, you start shedding your worldly worries.
Whether you're on a quest for adrenaline, peace, or divine connection, Chopta delivers beyond expectations. So pick your chopta tour package, lace up your boots, and step into one of Uttarakhand’s most soulful escapes.
< FAQs >
What is Chopta famous for?
Chopta is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, including lush meadows, dense forests of pine and deodar, and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. It's also the base camp for the Tungnath and Chandrashila treks.
Where is Chopta located?
Chopta is a small hill station located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It falls within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
What is the best time to visit Chopta?
The best time to visit Chopta is generally from March to June (pleasant weather, clear skies) and September to November (post-monsoon greenery, crisp air). Monsoon season (July-August) can bring heavy rainfall, and winter (December-February) experiences heavy snowfall, making some areas inaccessible.
How do I reach Chopta?
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (around 200 km away), and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (around 220 km away). From both these points, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chopta. The last major town before Chopta is Ukhimath.
What types of accommodation are available in Chopta?
Accommodation options in Chopta are primarily guesthouses, homestays, and campsites. Luxury hotels are not common in Chopta itself, but you might find better options in nearby towns like Ukhimath or Sari.
What is typically included in a Chopta tour package?
A typical package usually includes accommodation, meals (breakfast and dinner), transportation from a designated point (like Haridwar or Rishikesh), sightseeing as per the itinerary (Tungnath, Chandrashila), and sometimes the services of a guide.
What is usually not included in a Chopta tour package?
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs), lunch, entry fees to any attractions (if applicable), travel insurance, and any activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary are usually not included.
Can I customize a Chopta tour package?
Yes, most tour operators offer the flexibility to customize the package based on your interests, duration, and budget. You can often add or remove destinations or activities.
What is the duration of a typical Chopta tour package?
The duration can vary, but most packages range from 2 to 4 days, depending on the number of places covered (e.g., just Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila or including nearby areas).
What is the cost of a Chopta tour package?
The cost depends on several factors, including the duration, type of accommodation, mode of transport, inclusions, and the number of people traveling. Budget packages can start from a few thousand rupees per person, while more comfortable or longer packages will cost more.
Are the Tungnath and Chandrashila treks included in most Chopta tour packages?
Yes, these are the main attractions and are usually included in most Chopta tour packages. The trek to Tungnath is relatively easy (around 3.5 km), and the trek from Tungnath to Chandrashila peak (another 1.5 km) is a bit steeper.
What is the difficulty level of the treks?
The Tungnath trek is considered easy to moderate. The stretch from Tungnath to Chandrashila is moderate due to the ascent and altitude. Good physical fitness is recommended.
Do I need any special permits for trekking in Chopta?
Currently, no specific permits are required for the Tungnath and Chandrashila treks for Indian nationals. However, it's always advisable to check the latest regulations before your trip. Foreign nationals might need permits for certain areas within Uttarakhand.
What should I pack for a Chopta trek?
Essentials include warm layers of clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, a waterproof jacket, a first-aid kit, a water bottle, snacks, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and personal medications. If you're camping, you'll need additional gear like a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping mat.
Are there any safety precautions I should be aware of during the trek?
Stay hydrated, trek at a comfortable pace, listen to your guide's instructions, be aware of weather changes, and avoid trekking alone, especially if you are a beginner. Carry identification and emergency contact information.
What kind of food will be available during the tour?
Basic Indian vegetarian food is generally available at guesthouses and eateries in Chopta and along the trek routes. Non-vegetarian options might be limited.
What about mobile network connectivity in Chopta?
Mobile network connectivity can be patchy in Chopta and along the trek routes. BSNL often has better coverage compared to other networks in remote areas of Uttarakhand.
Are ATMs available in Chopta?
ATMs are not readily available in Chopta. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash from Rishikesh or Ukhimath to cover your expenses.
What if there is a medical emergency?
Basic medical facilities might be available in Ukhimath. For serious medical emergencies, you would need to travel to larger towns like Rudraprayag or Srinagar. It's essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Is Chopta suitable for families with children and senior citizens?
While Chopta's natural beauty can be enjoyed by all, the treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila might be challenging for young children and senior citizens due to the altitude and terrain. However, shorter walks and enjoying the scenic views from Chopta itself are possible. It's best to discuss your specific needs and the fitness levels of your group with the tour operator.