Is Monsoon Good for Chopta Tungnath Trek? Find Out Now
Published on August 04, 2025
Chopta Tungnath Trek is a truly beautiful and popular adventure in Uttarakhand. It's famous for its stunning green meadows, old temples, and amazing views of the Himalayas. This trek draws people who love nature and adventure all year long. However, when the monsoon season arrives, many people aren't sure if it's a good time to go.
This article will tell you all you need to know about hiking to Chopta Tungnath during the rainy season. We'll cover what the weather is like, the difficulties you might face, the unique beauty of the path, and some useful tips for anyone thinking about making the trip at this time.
Suggested 3-Day Monsoon Itinerary for Chopta Tungnath Trek
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.
Exploring the Chopta Tungnath Trek
The Chopta Tungnath trek is a wonderful trip that takes you to a beautiful and holy place in Uttarakhand. The journey starts in Chopta, a small town in the Rudraprayag area. People often call it the "Mini Switzerland of India" because of its lovely green fields and amazing views. From Chopta, the walk to Tungnath is about 3.5 kilometers long.
Tungnath is a very special place because it has the highest Shiva temple in the world. It is also one of the five important temples called Panch Kedar, which makes it a very holy place to visit. After you reach Tungnath, you can walk a little farther to get to the top of Chandrashila. From there, you get to see a full, 360-degree view of huge mountains like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. It's an incredible sight that you won't forget.
Here are some of the best parts of this trek:
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Beautiful Scenery: You'll see gorgeous green fields in Chopta and then amazing snowy mountains from the top.
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A Holy Place: You get to visit the highest Shiva temple in the world, which is a very important spot for many people.
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Easy to Do: The walk from Chopta to Tungnath isn't too long or hard, so many different kinds of people can do it.
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Amazing Views: The top of Chandrashila gives you a breathtaking view of some of the most famous mountains in the Himalayas.
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Special Feelings: This trek is a great mix of enjoying nature and feeling a sense of peace and calm, making it a very special trip.
Why You Should Trek to Chopta Tungnath in the Monsoon ?
Trekking to Chopta Tungnath during the monsoon season offers a truly unique and beautiful experience. It's a time when the mountains are at their most vibrant, and the trails are less crowded, making for a more peaceful and personal adventure.
The Amazing Greenery One of the best things about a monsoon trek is the incredible natural beauty. The rain makes the forests look thick and fresh, and the open meadows glow with a bright, lively green color. All sorts of flowers bloom, turning the landscape into a colorful wonderland. It's the perfect time for anyone who loves nature or wants to take amazing photos. The air feels clean and crisp, and the entire area seems to be bursting with life.
Quiet Trails and Peaceful Moments If you want to escape from busy city life, the monsoon is the perfect time for a Chopta tour package. There are far fewer people on the trails compared to the summer months. This means you can enjoy the quiet, natural beauty and feel a deeper connection to the mountains. The walk to Tungnath Temple feels more spiritual and calm without the usual crowds. You can take your time, soak in the surroundings, and truly enjoy the journey without any rush.
A Magical, Misty World The rain clouds and mist create a special, dreamy atmosphere. If you love the feeling of walking in a light drizzle with fog all around, then the monsoon will be a magical experience for you. The clouds often float low, giving the feeling that you are walking among them. This unique setting makes the Chandrashila trek feel like an adventure through a hidden, mystical world.
More Affordable Trip Since the monsoon is considered the off-season for trekking, many hotels and guesthouses offer discounts. This means you can find great deals on places to stay and other services, making your trip to Chopta more budget-friendly.
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Lush Green Beauty: The rain transforms the whole landscape into a stunning, vibrant green paradise, full of fresh flowers.
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Fewer People: Enjoy the trails and holy places in peace, away from big crowds.
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Misty Vibe: The cool, foggy weather creates a magical and special feeling.
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Cheaper Stays: Get better prices on hotels and guesthouses since it's the off-season.
What to Watch Out for on a Monsoon Trek to Chopta ?
While trekking to Chopta Tungnath in the rainy season is beautiful, there are some things you need to be careful about. Knowing these ahead of time will help you have a safer and better trip.
Slippery Paths The biggest challenge is that the walking paths get very slick and muddy from the rain. The stone trail on the Tungnath Temple trek can become slippery when wet. This makes it a bit harder to walk, especially on the hills. You need to walk slowly and carefully to avoid falling. Make sure you have good hiking shoes with strong grip.
Roadblocks and Delays Heavy rains in the mountains can cause landslides. These can block the roads to Chopta, which might mean your trip gets delayed or even canceled. It’s always smart to check the weather and what the roads are like before you leave. This helps you be ready for any changes.
Hidden Mountain Views The main reason many people do the Chandrashila summit trek is to see the amazing views of the big mountain peaks. But during the monsoon, clouds and fog often cover the mountains. You might not get to see a clear view of famous peaks like Nanda Devi or Chaukhamba. If seeing these clear views is the most important part of your trip, you might be a little sad.
Leeches on the Trail In some wet, green areas, you might find leeches on the path. They are not dangerous, but they can be a bit annoying. Wearing long pants and bringing something like salt or a bug spray can help keep them away. It's a small problem that you can easily handle if you are ready for it.
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Slippery Trails: The paths can be muddy and slick, so you need to be careful and wear good shoes.
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Road Problems: Landslides can block roads, which might change your travel plans.
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No Clear Views: Clouds and fog might hide the big mountain peaks.
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Leeches: In some wet spots, you might find leeches, so it's good to be prepared.
Essential Tips for a Monsoon Trek to Chopta
Going on a Chopta Tungnath trek during the monsoon can be an incredible adventure, but being prepared is key. The right gear and a smart plan will help you stay safe and comfortable, no matter what the weather does. Following these tips will ensure you have a wonderful and memorable experience.
Plan for the Weather The most important thing to do is to always check the weather forecast before you start your trip. Avoid trekking if heavy rain or storms are expected, as this can make the trails unsafe. Once you’re there, be sure to have the right rain gear. This means a good waterproof jacket and pants, along with a cover for your backpack. It's also a smart idea to keep your phone, money, and any important documents inside smaller waterproof bags within your main pack.
Wear the Right Gear Having the right shoes is crucial for a successful and safe hike. You should wear high-ankle trekking shoes with a strong grip. The high ankle gives your feet support on uneven, rocky paths, while the strong grip prevents you from slipping on the wet and muddy trail. Your shoes should also be waterproof to keep your feet dry and warm.
Trek Smart and Stay Flexible It is best to begin your hike early in the morning. Rain usually gets heavier in the afternoon, so starting early gives you a chance to finish a good portion of the trail before the rain gets strong. This is especially true for the final stretch of the Chopta Chandrashila trek. It’s also wise to keep a "buffer day" in your travel plan. This extra day is a lifesaver if bad weather causes delays or blocks the roads, so you don't feel rushed or have to turn back.
Be Prepared for Anything. When choosing a place to stay, pick a safe and trusted guesthouse or camp that is well-equipped for the rainy season. A sturdy building with good drainage is always a good choice. If you can, get travel insurance that covers cancellations or emergencies. This gives you peace of mind, knowing you're covered in case your plans change due to the weather.
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Check the Weather: Regularly review the forecast and avoid trekking on days with heavy rain.
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Carry Rain Gear: Pack a waterproof jacket, a rain cover for your bag, and waterproof pouches for your valuables.
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Wear Proper Footwear: Use high-ankle, waterproof shoes with a strong grip to stay steady on wet trails.
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Start Your Trek Early: Begin hiking in the morning to finish before the heaviest afternoon rain.
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Stay in Safe Places: Choose reliable homestays or camps that are prepared for the monsoon.
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Keep a Buffer Day: Add at least one extra day to your trip for unexpected delays or road closures.
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Get Travel Insurance: Consider getting insurance to cover any changes to your plans due to bad weather.
A Look at Chopta's Natural World in the Rainy Season
The monsoon transforms Chopta into a lush, green wonderland, making it a perfect time for a chopta tour package focused on nature. This region, which is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, is home to a rich variety of plants and animals that become especially active during the rainy season. The air is fresh and filled with the scent of damp earth and blooming flowers, offering a sensory experience you won't get at any other time of year.
The forests and meadows are teeming with life. The green cover is at its most vibrant, and you'll see many types of wildflowers blooming on the slopes. This is also a great time to spot birds, as the misty weather brings many species out. The entire landscape feels alive, with water flowing everywhere, from small streams to new waterfalls. It’s a chance to see the Himalayas not just for their big mountains, but for their delicate and rich natural life.
Here's what you can expect to see on your trip:
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Flora (Plants):
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Wildflowers: The meadows, or "Bugyals," are covered in a colorful carpet of wildflowers that only bloom in the monsoon.
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Mosses and Ferns: The constant moisture allows for beautiful, vibrant mosses and many types of ferns to grow on rocks and tree trunks.
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Rhododendron Trees: While their big flowers bloom in spring, the leaves of these trees look incredibly fresh and green when washed by the rain.
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Fauna (Animals):
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Himalayan Monal: This beautiful, colorful pheasant is the state bird of Uttarakhand. While they can be shy, they are often seen foraging in the clearings.
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Other Birds: Chopta is a birdwatcher's paradise, and during the monsoon, you might spot other species like the Himalayan Griffon, a type of vulture, and various thrushes.
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Butterflies and Insects: The blooming flowers attract many different kinds of butterflies and other small insects, adding more color and life to the trails.
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Accommodation Options During Monsoon in Chopta
Chopta offers a range of simple and cozy places to stay during the monsoon. Since it's the off-season, you'll find that many of the large camping sites close down. However, guesthouses and homestays remain open and are a great option. These places are usually run by local families, offering a warm, welcoming feel and home-cooked meals that give you a taste of the local culture.
Don't expect big luxury hotels with lots of features. The accommodations in Chopta are more basic, focusing on comfort and safety from the rain. Many places, like guesthouses and homestays, are built with sturdy materials and have attached bathrooms, which is very important during the wet season. You might also find some concrete-based cottage stays that are designed to handle the monsoon weather, providing a safe and dry place to rest after a day of trekking. Because fewer people visit in the monsoon, you can often get these rooms at a better price.
Here are the main types of places you can stay in Chopta during the monsoon:
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Homestays: These are a popular choice. They are run by local families and offer a clean, warm room and homemade food. It's a great way to experience the local lifestyle.
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Guesthouses: Similar to homestays, guesthouses provide basic but comfortable rooms. They are a reliable option for a dry place to stay with simple meals.
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Eco-Friendly Camps/Cottages: Some camps offer more permanent, weather-resistant cottages or sturdy tents with a solid base. These are good for a mix of a camping feel with more comfort and safety from the rain.
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Hotels in nearby villages: If you want more options, you can stay in nearby villages like Ukhimath or Duggalbitta, which are just a short drive from Chopta. These places sometimes have more amenities and are a good alternative if you want more comfort.
How to Reach Chopta for Tungnath Trek During Monsoon ?
Reaching Chopta from Delhi for a monsoon trek requires careful planning, but it's a journey that sets the stage for a beautiful adventure. The distance is about 450 km, and the trip by road can take anywhere from 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. While the drive is long, it's the most common way to get there. Many travelers choose a chopta tour package from delhi because it takes away the stress of planning and driving.
The most common route takes you through Haridwar and Rishikesh, then continues on towards Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and finally Ukhimath before reaching Chopta. During the monsoon, this route can be affected by rain, which might lead to temporary road closures or delays. It's crucial to check for road updates before you start your chopta tungnath trek from delhi and have a flexible plan.
Here are the main ways to travel from Delhi:
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By Car/Taxi: This is the most flexible option. You can hire a private taxi or drive your own car. A private taxi is a great choice if you're not used to driving on mountain roads in the rain. Most chopta chandrashila trek from delhi packages include transport, which is a great way to travel with a group and have a hassle-free journey.
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By Bus: This is the most budget-friendly option. You can take an overnight bus from Delhi to Rishikesh or Haridwar. From there, you'll need to hire a shared or private taxi to Chopta. Be aware that bus services might be less frequent and can be delayed by bad weather.
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By Train: You can take a train from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh, which are the nearest major railway stations. From there, you will have to find a taxi or bus to continue your journey to Chopta.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to start your journey early in the day to avoid the heaviest rain and potential roadblocks that often occur in the afternoon.
Final Thoughts – Monsoon Trek to Chopta: Worth It or Not?
Ultimately, the decision to trek to Chopta during the monsoon depends on what you're looking for in your adventure.
It's definitely worth it if:
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You love nature and want to see the mountains at their most vibrant, with lush green meadows and blooming wildflowers.
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You are a photographer looking for magical, misty landscapes and unique views that are different from any other season.
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You want a peaceful, quiet trek away from the usual crowds.
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You are prepared for rain, slippery trails, and have a flexible schedule.
It might not be the best choice if:
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Your main goal is to get clear, panoramic views of the big Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. The mountains are often hidden by clouds during the monsoon.
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You have a very strict timeline and cannot afford any delays caused by potential road closures.
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You are a first-time trekker who wants a completely easy and risk-free experience.
In conclusion, a monsoon trek to Chopta is a special and rewarding journey for the right kind of traveler. With proper planning, the right gear, and a flexible attitude, you will be treated to a magical, beautiful, and unforgettable experience that few others get to see.
If you want to read a beginner's guide for the Chopta Tungnath trek, check out our blog here.
Frequently asked questions
1. Is it safe to trek to Chopta Tungnath during the monsoon?
Yes, it's generally safe if you're prepared, but expect slippery trails and sudden rains. Always check weather updates and carry proper gear.
2. What are the main challenges of trekking in monsoon?
Muddy paths, leeches, landslides, and limited visibility are common. Waterproof shoes and rain gear are a must.
3. Will the Tungnath temple be open during monsoon?
Yes, the temple remains open from April to November, including monsoon months, unless weather conditions are extreme.
4. Can beginners do the Chopta Tungnath trek in rainy season?
Yes, beginners can do it, but only if they are physically fit and take caution. A guide is recommended.
5. What should I pack for a monsoon trek to Chopta?
Raincoat, waterproof trekking shoes, warm layers, quick-dry clothes, flashlight, and basic first-aid are essential.
6. Will I get views of the Himalayas during monsoon?
Clouds may block views, but after rain, you might catch clear skies and stunning landscapes. Early mornings are best for visibility.
7. Are hotels and camps available in Chopta during monsoon?
Yes, but fewer in number. Some camps shut due to heavy rain, so it’s better to book in advance.
8. What’s the road condition like from Delhi to Chopta in monsoon?
The roads are motorable but can be affected by landslides near Rudraprayag or Ukhimath. Drive with caution or hire a local driver.
9. Is the Chandrashila Summit trek doable in monsoon?
It depends on weather. Trails can get risky after heavy rain. Ask locals or forest officials before starting.
10. Do tour packages cover the Chopta trek during monsoon?
Yes, many tour operators offer Chopta tour packages in monsoon, but they may include weather-related disclaimers or flexible plans.