Chopta Tungnath Trek – Peaceful Path to Chandrashila Peak
Published on June 21, 2025
Chopta Tungnath Trek is one of the most peaceful and rewarding short treks in the Indian Himalayas, perfect for beginners, families, and nature lovers. Starting from the scenic meadows of Chopta, this trail takes you through dense forests, past ancient temples, and up to the majestic Chandrashila summit. It’s not just a trek—it’s a soulful walk through nature, culture, and spirituality.
Along the way, trekkers visit Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple, before continuing to Chandrashila for panoramic sunrise views of the Garhwal Himalayas. The route is manageable, making it an ideal choice for those new to high-altitude trekking or seeking a quick escape from city life. The fresh air, forest silence, and sweeping mountain views make the Chopta Tungnath Trek a truly enriching experience. Whether you're trekking solo or with loved ones, the journey leaves you refreshed and deeply connected to the mountains.
Chopta Tungnath Trek Itinerary – Day-Wise Route & Schedule
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
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One Night Accommodation In Sari Village.
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One Night Accommodation In Chopta/Sari Village.
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4 Meals Will Be Provided Throughtout The Trip.
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AC Transportation.
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Guide While trekking.
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Experienced Trip Captain Throught The Trip.
Exclusion
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5% GST
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Extra Drinks, Food, Tea and Snacks.
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Tickets for any sightseeing or extra activity outside the camp area.
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Travel Insurance and other benefits.
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Anything which is not mentioned in inclusions.
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Cost escalation due to any unforeseen reason like weather, road condition landslide etc.
Chopta Tungnath Trek Overview – Route, Distance & Difficulty
The Chopta Tungnath Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Uttarakhand, and for good reason. With breathtaking views, a spiritual destination, and beginner-friendly terrain, it strikes the perfect balance between adventure and accessibility. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or someone looking for a peaceful Himalayan trail, this trek offers a truly memorable experience.
The trail starts from Chopta, often called the “basecamp” for the trek. From here, the route leads to the ancient Tungnath Temple, and further up to the Chandrashila summit. Along the way, you walk through alpine meadows, dense rhododendron forests, and stone-paved paths lined with snow (in winter) or greenery (in spring/summer).
Trek Route & Distance
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Starting Point: Chopta (Altitude ~2,600 meters)
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Trek to Tungnath Temple: 3.5 km (one way)
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Trek to Chandrashila Summit (optional): Additional 1.5 km from Tungnath
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Total Distance (round trip): ~10 km (Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Chopta)
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Time Required: 4–6 hours round trip, depending on pace and stops
This route is well-marked, with gradual ascents that make it easy for first-timers and even families with children.
Trek Difficulty Level
The Tungnath Temple trek is considered easy to moderate, depending on the season:
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Easy in Spring/Summer (March–June): Clear trails, pleasant weather
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Moderate in Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow-covered paths and lower temperatures make it more physically demanding
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No technical climbing or gear is required, making it ideal for those trying their first Himalayan trek
Why This Trek is Beginner-Friendly
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Short distance and low altitude gain
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Availability of food stalls and resting points along the trail
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Scenic beauty that keeps the journey engaging
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Chance to visit Tungnath Temple, the world’s highest Shiva temple
Whether you're booking a Chopta Tungnath trek on your own or part of a package, this trek delivers spiritual peace, natural beauty, and a gentle introduction to Himalayan trekking.
Why the Chopta Tungnath Trek is Perfect for Beginners & Families
The Chopta Tungnath Trek is widely regarded as one of the best beginner-friendly treks in the Indian Himalayas. With a short distance, gentle trails, and rewarding views, it’s the ideal choice for first-time trekkers, families with kids, or even senior citizens who want to experience the mountains without pushing their limits.
Located in the scenic Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, this trek takes you from the peaceful village of Chopta to Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple, and optionally further to the Chandrashila summit. What makes this trek special is its simplicity—it doesn’t demand any technical skills or high endurance, just a basic level of fitness and a love for nature.
What Makes It Beginner-Friendly?
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Short Distance: Only 3.5 km one way to Tungnath and 1.5 km extra to Chandrashila
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Well-Maintained Trail: Stone-paved paths with gradual inclines and proper markers
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Low Risk: No river crossings, no technical climbing, and low altitude challenges
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Availability of Amenities: Tea stalls and rest spots are available along the trail
Why It’s Great for Families
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Safe for Children & Seniors: No sharp climbs or dangerous patches
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Spiritual Stop at Tungnath Temple: Adds a meaningful experience to the journey
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Stunning Views Without Long Hours: Families can enjoy mountain views without a multi-day trek
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Flexibility: You can return after Tungnath or continue to Chandrashila if everyone is comfortable
Perfect for a First Himalayan Experience
For those trying their first Himalayan trek, the Chopta Tungnath Trek offers everything in a manageable format—forest walks, temple visits, and optional summit views. It gives you the feel of a high-altitude trail without the physical intensity of more advanced treks like Kedarkantha or Valley of Flowers.
If you're looking for an easy Himalayan trek that offers beauty, peace, and a shared experience for all age groups, the Chopta Tungnath Trek is exactly where you should begin. It’s short, scenic, and surprisingly fulfilling.
Tungnath Temple Trek – Spiritual Pause Before Chandrashila
There’s something deeply moving about reaching Tungnath. As you ascend through quiet forests and open meadows, the path suddenly opens up to reveal a small stone temple, standing strong against the mountain wind. The setting is raw, simple—and unforgettable.
Unlike loud tourist spots or crowded pilgrimages, the Tungnath Temple trek offers space to slow down. You feel the shift as you approach it: less talking, more stillness. The clang of temple bells, the smell of burning incense, and the sight of snow in the distance—it all creates an atmosphere that stays with you long after the trek ends.
A Place to Pause, Reflect & Feel
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This isn’t just a rest stop—it’s a moment of grounding
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Trekkers often find themselves sitting on temple steps, simply watching the clouds drift
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Even if you’re not religious, the quiet energy here makes you pause
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It’s where the climb becomes less about reaching the top and more about being present
Emotion Over Elevation
Most Himalayan treks are measured by height or difficulty—but this stretch is different. The Tungnath Temple trek shifts the focus from physical effort to internal stillness. Even first-time trekkers or families who aren’t aiming for Chandrashila often make this their final stop, satisfied not by the summit, but by the moment.
For Travelers from Delhi & Beyond
If you're planning the Chopta Tungnath trek from Delhi, this point often becomes the soul of the journey. After long hours on the road, winding mountain drives, and chilly air, standing in front of this quiet temple feels like arriving somewhere that truly matters—not just on a map, but inside you.
You don’t need to be a seasoned trekker to enjoy this. You don’t even need to go all the way to Chandrashila. Reaching Tungnath is enough to understand why so many return to Chopta—not for the adventure, but for the peace.
This isn’t the halfway mark. For many, it’s the emotional summit.
Chandrashila Peak Trek – Sunrise Views Over the Himalayas
The Chandrashila trek is often described as a journey that rewards in ways few treks can. The name Chandrashila means “Moon Rock,” and once you stand at the summit, it’s easy to understand why it feels otherworldly. Towering at around 4,000 meters, Chandrashila summit offers a 360-degree view of the Garhwal Himalayas, including legendary peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath Dome, and Chaukhamba.
What makes the chandrashila summit trek so unique is not just its accessibility but the moment that happens right before dawn. As the sky slowly turns from deep blue to golden orange, and the mountains begin to glow with the first touch of sunlight, you feel still. Cold wind on your face, a wide silence all around, and the entire Himalayan skyline opening in front of you—this is the real magic of Chandrashila.
Why the Chandrashila Trek Stands Out
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Unmatched sunrise views across the Himalayan range
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A spiritual, almost meditative atmosphere at the top
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Great for photography, reflection, and connection with nature
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A short trek with a big emotional and visual payoff
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Part of the broader Chopta Chandrashila trek, yet its own destination
For Travelers Coming from Delhi or Plains
The chandrashila trek from Delhi has become a favorite among weekend adventure seekers, not just because of its convenience, but because it feels like stepping into a different world. No phone signal, no distractions—just you and the mountains.
Even if you’re not a seasoned trekker, the Chopta Chandrashila trek from Delhi offers a rare chance to feel accomplished without being overwhelmed. Many who reach Chandrashila say it’s not about ticking off another summit, but about seeing something that changes your perspective.
If there’s one place in Uttarakhand where nature speaks in silence and light, it’s here. The Chandrashila trek may be short, but the feeling at the summit is something you’ll carry for a lifetime.
Best Time to Do the Chopta Tungnath Trek – Month-by-Month Guide
The Chopta Tungnath Trek is open for most of the year, but the experience changes dramatically with the seasons. Whether you prefer snow, lush green forests, or clear skies for sunrise views, knowing the best time to visit Chopta can help you plan the trek that suits your travel style.
Each season brings a unique charm. Summer offers pleasant weather, monsoon paints the trail in green, and winter turns the landscape into a snow-covered wonder. Here’s a detailed month-by-month breakdown so you can choose your ideal Chopta Tungnath trek season.
March to May – Spring & Early Summer (Best for Comfort & Views)
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Weather: Clear skies, pleasant days (10°C to 20°C), cool nights
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Trail Condition: Dry and easy to walk
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Ideal For: Families, beginners, photographers
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Highlights: Rhododendron blooms, Himalayan views, full trail access
Best time to visit Chopta if you want a balanced mix of comfort, greenery, and scenery.
June to August – Monsoon (Lush but Risky)
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Weather: Rainy, misty, trails can get slippery
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Trail Condition: Muddy, occasional landslides on roads
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Ideal For: Offbeat travelers, nature enthusiasts
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Highlights: Lush green landscapes, fewer crowds
Trekking is possible but not recommended unless you're experienced and okay with wet gear.
September to November – Post-Monsoon & Autumn (Best Views)
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Weather: Clear skies, crisp air (5°C to 15°C)
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Trail Condition: Excellent visibility, dry and safe
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Ideal For: All trekkers, couples, solo travelers
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Highlights: Bright mountain views, peaceful trails
One of the best windows for the Chopta Tungnath trek with perfect weather and low crowd pressure.
December to February – Winter (For Snow Lovers)
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Weather: Snowfall, cold temperatures (-5°C to 10°C)
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Trail Condition: Snow-covered, moderate to tough
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Ideal For: Experienced trekkers, snow trekkers
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Highlights: Snow-laden forests, magical white trails
Best time to visit Chopta if you're looking for a snow trek—but do check trail access, as roads can close during heavy snowfall.
No matter when you go, the Chopta Tungnath trek offers a memorable experience. Just match the season to your comfort level and adventure vibe!
How to Reach Chopta – Travel Routes from Delhi & Nearby Cities
Planning the Chopta Tungnath trek from Delhi or any other nearby city? Knowing your travel route makes the journey smoother, especially since Chopta is a remote yet well-connected destination in Uttarakhand. Whether you're booking a Chopta tour package or traveling independently, the region is accessible via road, rail, and limited public transport—with breathtaking mountain views guaranteed along the way.
If you're coming from Delhi, the route takes around 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and stops. The journey is scenic but long, so many opt for Chopta tour packages from Delhi that include travel, stay, and trek coordination.
By Road – The Most Flexible Option
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Delhi to Chopta Distance: ~450 km
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Route: Delhi → Meerut → Haridwar → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta
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Travel Time: 12–14 hours
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Ideal for: Road trip lovers, groups, or those taking a Chopta tour package by private vehicle
Roads are in decent condition, but the last stretch after Ukhimath is narrow and winding. Hiring a local driver is recommended.
By Train – Nearest Railhead at Haridwar or Rishikesh
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From Delhi: Take a train to Haridwar or Rishikesh
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From Station to Chopta: 7–8 hours by taxi or local transport
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Perfect for travelers booking budget Chopta tour packages with partial road travel
Tip: Start early in the morning from Haridwar to reach Chopta before sunset.
By Air – Nearest Airport is Jolly Grant (Dehradun)
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Flight to Dehradun: Then drive ~7–8 hours to Chopta
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Suitable for those flying in from metros or adding Chopta to a larger Uttarakhand itinerary
Many travelers prefer a pre-arranged Chopta tour package from Delhi to avoid navigating public transport in the hills. These packages usually offer hotel pickup, guided treks, and stays in camps or homestays—making it hassle-free, especially for first-time visitors.
No matter how you travel, the road to Chopta promises incredible mountain views, peaceful valleys, and a fresh start to your Himalayan adventure.
Stay Options for the Chopta Tungnath Trek – Camps, Homestays & Hotels
When planning the Chopta Tungnath trek, choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking for a quiet camp under the stars, a cozy homestay with local food, or a basic hotel with all the essentials, Chopta offers a variety of stay options that suit different comfort levels and budgets.
The region has no luxury resorts—but that’s what makes it special. The charm of Chopta lies in its raw, natural setting and peaceful silence. Most accommodations are located in or around villages like Chopta, Duggalbitta, Baniyakund, and Ukhimath, which are close to the trek’s starting point.
Chopta Camps – For Adventure & Views
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Perfect for trekkers who want to sleep close to nature
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Tents usually include mattresses, blankets, and basic toilet facilities
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Some camps offer bonfire evenings and hot meals
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Great option for clear sky stargazing and chilly Himalayan nights
Popular among groups and backpackers who want to feel the wild vibe of Chopta.
Homestays – Warmth, Local Food & Stories
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Run by local families in nearby villages like Baniyakund and Duggalbitta
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Offer authentic Garhwali meals and personal hospitality
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Basic but clean rooms, often with attached bathrooms
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Helps support local tourism and gives cultural exposure
Best option for those looking for a budget stay in Chopta with a more grounded, community feel.
Chopta Hotels – Comfortable Yet Simple
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Few small hotels or lodges are available in the Chopta region
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Provide beds, running water, and hot meals (usually vegetarian)
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Suitable for families and older travelers who prefer more structure
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Often part of pre-booked Chopta Tungnath trek packages
Don't expect luxury, but most hotels deliver the basics reliably—especially during peak seasons.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a family group, or a solo traveler, the Chopta hotels, camps, and homestays offer exactly what you need: warmth, simplicity, and a close connection to nature. Booking early during peak months (March–June, Sept–Nov) is recommended, as places fill up fast.
Chopta might be remote—but its hospitality is always close at heart.
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.