Chandrashila Peak Temple
Published on August 23, 2025
Chandrashila Trek – A Short Hike with Majestic Himalayan Views
High in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand lies Chandrashila, which translates to “Moon Rock.” Rising to an altitude of around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), this peak offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. Just 1.5 kilometers above Tungnath Temple—the highest Shiva temple in the world—Chandrashila is a favorite destination for pilgrims, trekkers, and nature lovers alike.
From the summit, you can see an awe-inspiring 360-degree vista of some of India’s tallest and most revered peaks: Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedar Dome glistening under the open sky. Whether you’re here to witness nature’s beauty, take photographs, or experience a spiritual moment of peace, Chandrashila has something for everyone.
A Journey That Starts in Chopta
The trek to Chandrashila begins at Chopta, a serene hill station often called the “Mini Switzerland of India” because of its lush meadows and postcard-perfect landscapes. The first stretch of the trek is a 3.5 km path to Tungnath Temple, which is known for its gentle gradient and easy accessibility, making it suitable even for beginners or families with children.
From Tungnath, the path continues for another 1.5 km to the Chandrashila summit. While this last section is steeper and requires more effort, it is relatively short and manageable with a steady pace and basic fitness. Many travelers say that the climb, though mildly challenging, is as rewarding as the summit itself.
A Trail Through Changing Seasons
One of the most beautiful aspects of the Chandrashila Trek is how different it looks with every season.
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Spring (April–June): The trail bursts into color as rhododendron flowers bloom in brilliant shades of red and pink. The weather is cool but pleasant, making it ideal for trekking.
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Autumn (September–November): The skies are crystal clear, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks appear especially sharp and magnificent.
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Winter (December–March): The entire route, from Chopta to Chandrashila, is blanketed in snow. This season attracts adventure seekers who enjoy snow trekking, though the climb requires warm gear and extra caution.
During the trek, you walk through peaceful forests of oak and pine, open alpine meadows, and high-altitude ridges. Along the way, small stalls sometimes appear in warmer months, offering hot tea and snacks to refresh trekkers. Every turn in the path opens up a new view—sometimes a rolling valley, sometimes a distant snowy peak glowing in sunlight.
The Magic of the Summit
Reaching Chandrashila’s summit feels like stepping into a dream. The wide-open views of the Himalayan range are so vast and clear that it almost feels like you’re floating above the world.
The sunrise at Chandrashila is particularly famous. Trekkers often start early in the morning or even at dawn to reach the top just as the first golden rays hit the snow-covered peaks. The mountains—Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath—light up in shades of pink, orange, and gold, creating a magical scene that stays etched in your memory.
Standing on the summit, you feel a sense of peace and stillness that is hard to describe. The cool winds, the endless horizon, and the silence broken only by nature make it a perfect spot to simply pause and take it all in.
A Place of Legends and Spiritual Energy
Chandrashila is not just a trekking destination—it is also a place of legends and deep spiritual significance. According to ancient beliefs, Lord Rama meditated here after defeating Ravana, seeking purification and peace. This connection to the Ramayana adds a divine aura to the summit, making it a sacred site for many pilgrims who visit Tungnath Temple just below.
This blend of mythology and natural beauty is what makes Chandrashila unique. It is not just a mountain peak—it’s a place where stories from the past meet the raw magnificence of the Himalayas.
Why Chandrashila Trek is So Popular
Despite its high altitude, the Chandrashila Trek is known for being short, accessible, and incredibly rewarding. You don’t need weeks of preparation or specialized equipment to reach here. Most travelers can complete the trek in a single day, though many choose to spend a night in Chopta to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and starlit skies.
The trek is also a favorite among photographers. Every season paints a different picture—whether it’s flowers in bloom, golden sunrises, or white snowfields. Birdwatchers also love the region, as it is home to many Himalayan species.
For pilgrims visiting Tungnath Temple, the climb to Chandrashila feels like a natural extension of their journey. After offering prayers to Lord Shiva, many choose to hike the final stretch to the summit as a way of seeking blessings amidst the untouched grandeur of the mountains.
Practical Tips for the Chandrashila Trek
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Duration: The entire trek (Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Chopta) can be completed in 6–7 hours at a relaxed pace.
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Fitness: Basic fitness is enough, but regular walking before the trip can make the climb easier.
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Clothing: Carry warm jackets even in summer. Temperatures can drop sharply at higher altitudes.
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Footwear: Good trekking shoes with a firm grip are recommended, especially for snow trekking in winter.
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Stay Options: Chopta has simple guesthouses, homestays, and campsites where you can spend the night before or after the trek.
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Respect Nature: Avoid littering, keep noise to a minimum, and maintain the purity of the place.
The Essence of Chandrashila
The Chandrashila Trek offers something rare—a Himalayan experience that combines stunning scenery, spiritual calm, and accessible adventure. Unlike long, grueling treks, this one is short yet gives you the reward of vast panoramic views, beautiful forest trails, and the feeling of standing on a sacred summit.
Whether you are visiting to test your stamina, to fill your camera with unforgettable frames, or to simply feel the mountain breeze while offering a silent prayer, Chandrashila leaves you with something precious: a sense of awe and contentment.
As you descend back to Chopta, tired but happy, you’ll find yourself looking back at the shining summit, already dreaming of returning someday. It’s the kind of place that stays not just in photographs but in your heart forever.