View From Chandrashila Peak

Published on November 05, 2024

Chandrashila Trek – Summit of the Moon Rock

At an altitude of about 4,000 meters (13,123 ft) in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas, Chandrashila — meaning “Moon Rock” — is one of the most rewarding summit treks in India. Known for its 360-degree views of the mighty Himalayan peaks, the trek offers a blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and adventure that attracts both seasoned trekkers and beginners.

Location and Approach

Chandrashila is located above Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, in the Rudraprayag district. The base point for the trek is the small hill station of Chopta, often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India."

From Chopta:

• Tungnath Trek: ~3.5 km uphill path

• Chandrashila Summit Trek: ~1.5 km further from Tungnath

Though the distance from Chopta to Chandrashila is just about 5 km one way, the steep gradients and high-altitude conditions make it a moderate to challenging climb.

Trek Route

The Chandrashila trek is usually done in two parts:

1. Chopta to Tungnath Temple – A stone-paved path through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows.

2. Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit – A steeper, rockier trail that requires careful footing, especially in snow.

Elevation Gain:

• Chopta (2,680 m) → Tungnath (3,680 m) → Chandrashila (4,000 m)

 

Difficulty Level

The trek is rated easy to moderate in summer but can become difficult in winter due to snow and ice.

• Summer/Fall: Suitable for beginners with basic fitness.

• Winter/Spring: Requires trekking gear, layered clothing, and possibly microspikes for grip.

The short distance often misleads people into underestimating it — the high altitude and steep incline demand steady pacing and acclimatization.

Best Time to Visit

Chandrashila offers different experiences depending on the season:

• Spring (March–April) – Lush meadows and rhododendrons in full bloom, mild weather, clear skies.

• Summer (May–June) – Pleasant trekking conditions, cool mornings and evenings, open trails.

• Autumn (Sept–Nov) – Best for crystal-clear mountain views, post-monsoon freshness.

• Winter (Dec–Feb) – Snow-covered trail and summit; challenging but magical. Tungnath Temple remains closed, but the trail is accessible for experienced trekkers.

Panoramic Himalayan Views

From the Chandrashila summit, you get a 360-degree view of some of the tallest Himalayan peaks:

• Nanda Devi (7,816 m) – India’s second-highest peak

• Trishul (7,120 m)

• Chaukhamba (7,138 m) – The “Four Pillars” peak, dominant on the horizon

• Kedar Dome and other peaks around Kedarnath

On a clear day, the sight is unforgettable — sunrise from here is especially famous, with golden light bathing the snowy peaks.

Spiritual & Mythological Connection

Chandrashila is not just a trekking summit — it’s steeped in legends:

• Rama’s Meditation: As per Hindu belief, Lord Rama meditated here after defeating Ravana to atone for his sins.

• Moon Rock Legend: The name Chandrashila (“Moon Rock”) is linked to the belief that the moon god, Chandra, once meditated here for years.

• Tungnath Link: Since the trail passes through Tungnath, many devotees combine the spiritual journey with the summit trek.

Wildlife and Flora

The trek cuts through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, home to:

• Himalayan monal (Uttarakhand’s state bird)

• Musk deer

• Pikas and mountain foxes

In spring, the rhododendron forests are painted in shades of pink and red. Alpine flowers bloom near the summit during summer.

 

Trekking Essentials

While it’s a relatively short trek, Chandrashila demands preparation:

• Clothing: Layered warm wear, gloves, windproof jacket, and sturdy trekking shoes.

• Gear: Walking stick, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle.

• Winter Add-ons: Microspikes, gaiters, and insulated gloves.

• Fitness: Cardiovascular endurance and leg strength help in steep climbs.

Accommodation & Food

Most trekkers stay in Chopta or nearby villages like Duggalbitta and Baniyakund. Options include:

• Budget guesthouses

• Tents and campsites

• Simple homestays

Small dhabas along the trek route serve tea, Maggi, parathas, and other basic meals.

Permits and Regulations

As Chandrashila falls within a protected forest area, certain rules apply:

• No littering — carry all waste back.

• Avoid loud music and disturbances to wildlife.

• Forest entry permits may be needed if accessing via sanctuary gates (check locally)

 

Sunrise at Chandrashila

Starting in the dark hours before dawn, the air at Chopta is crisp and still, broken only by the crunch of boots on the frosted path. The trek begins under a sky strewn with stars, and as you climb, the silence is almost meditative. The faint outline of peaks emerges in the dim light, hinting at the grand spectacle to come.

By the time you pass Tungnath and make the final push to Chandrashila, the eastern horizon begins to glow in shades of deep purple and amber. The temperature is biting, but the anticipation warms you. And then, as the sun edges over the horizon, the Himalayas come alive — Chaukhamba bathed in molten gold, Trishul catching the first blush of day, and Nanda Devi rising like a queen in the distance.

The play of light is slow and mesmerizing — shadows retreat across the valleys, snowfields sparkle, and the sky transitions into a brilliant blue. Standing here, with the world spread out at your feet and the sun igniting the peaks, it feels less like watching a sunrise and more like witnessing the Himalayas breathe awake.

Sunset at Chandrashila

While sunrise is the most talked-about, sunset from Chandrashila is equally unforgettable, especially for those who choose to descend late or camp nearby. As afternoon light softens, the peaks take on a warm, honeyed glow. The air turns cooler, and the valleys below sink into soft shadows.

The sun begins its slow descent behind distant ridges, painting the snow-capped summits in shades of burnished gold, fiery orange, and rose pink. Clouds, if present, catch the light and flare up in dramatic colors before fading into dusky purples.

The silence deepens, broken only by the occasional wind sweeping across the ridge. It’s a moment of stillness and reflection — the kind of scene that makes you pause, forget the climb, and simply absorb the grandeur of nature’s farewell for the day.

Safety Tips

• Ascend slowly to avoid altitude sickness.

• Stay hydrated, but avoid overexertion.

• In winter, always check snow and weather conditions before starting.

• If trekking in snow, hire a local guide for safety.

Why Chandrashila is Special

Unlike long Himalayan treks that take days, Chandrashila offers instant access to alpine scenery and summit views within a day’s effort. The combination of:

• Easy access from Chopta

• Rich mythology

• All-season beauty

• Unmatched Himalayan panoramas

…makes it one of the most beloved treks for both spiritual seekers and adventure lovers.