Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
Experience bliss at the Highest Shiva Temple
Starting From ₹ 6500/-
- 4.8/5 Rating
- 1000+ Trekkers
- Certified Guides
- 24/7 Support
Max Elevation
3980 Meters
Distance
16 Kms
Duration
2 Nights / 3 Days
Easy To Moderate
May–October
Best Month
Throughout The Year
Group Size
20
Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek - Overview
If there’s one trek in Uttarakhand that ticks every box — spirituality, adventure, scenic beauty, and accessibility — it’s the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek. Tucked inside the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary in the Rudraprayag district, Chopta sits quietly at 2,680 metres above sea level, often called the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’ by those lucky enough to stumble upon it.
The trail takes you through ancient oak and deodar forests, across meadows carpeted with rhododendrons in spring, and up to one of the most sacred Shiva temples on earth — Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world at 3,470 m. Push a little further and you reach Chandrashila Peak (3,980 m), where a 360-degree panorama of the Garhwal Himalayas unfolds like a painting you never want to leave.
Deoriatal
Deoriatal is 3 km from Sari and Mastura village on the Chopta-Ukhimath road. It is a pristine lake with a mythological significance dating back to the Pandavas. The dreamlike lake is surrounded by a lush green meadow and the Himalayas in the backdrop. The reflection of Mount Chaukhamba in the emerald colored lake makes it a treat for trekkers at an elevation of 2,438 meters.
Tungnath
Tungnath is visited by many Shiva devotees as this is the highest Shiva temple in the world. It is the third Temple of Panch Kedar circuit with Kedarnath and Madmaheshwar on the left and Rudranath and Kalpeshwar on the right. Tungnath translated as 'lord of the peaks' is perched at an altitude of 3,470 meters. The summit point of this trek offers an astonishing view of prominent Himalayan peaks including Chaukhamba, Bandarpunch, Nilkantha, Tirsuli, Nanda Devi, Kedar Dome, and many more. Chopta village is surrounded by oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests which are home to rare Himalayan flora and fauna.
Why the Chandrashila Trek Belongs on Your Bucket List
Among the many treks in Uttarakhand, the Chandrashila Trek stands out for its rare mix of spirituality, accessibility, and panoramic Himalayan views. The trail passes through Tungnath Temple, the world’s highest Shiva temple and a sacred part of the Panch Kedar circuit, giving the trek a deeply spiritual atmosphere. From the Chandrashila Summit, trekkers can witness spectacular views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Kedarnath, and Bandarpunch from a single viewpoint. The nearby Deoriatal is famous for its sunrise reflections of Chaukhamba, making it a favorite among photographers. What also makes this trek special is that it suits both beginners and experienced trekkers, while remaining open throughout the year — from rhododendron-filled spring trails to snow-covered winter landscapes.
Note: Tungnath Temple is closed in the winter season; though the trek is undertaken throughout the year.
Chopta is 450 kilometers from the capital Delhi and a must visit hill station for all. This place is a delight for adventure lovers, a spiritual habitat for explorers, and a paradise for nature lovers.
Chopta Tungnath Difficulty — What to Honestly Expect
One of the most searched questions before booking this trek is: ‘What is the Chopta Tungnath difficulty level?’ Here’s a candid, section-by-section breakdown so you can prepare accordingly.
Overall Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek is rated Easy to Moderate. The trail is well-defined throughout, paved with stones in several sections, and has no technical climbing or glacier crossings. That said, the altitude gain is real, and the climb from Chopta to Chandrashila summit involves continuous ascent over ~5 km — which can feel demanding if you’re not reasonably fit.
Section 1: Sari to Deoriatal (3 km, +600 m ascent)
A moderately steep uphill trail through dense forest. Expect 1.5–2 hours of effort. The path is clear and well-worn. Difficulty: Moderate.
Section 2: Chopta to Tungnath Temple (3.5–4 km, +790 m ascent)
This is the main attraction. The trail is paved for most of its length and gains elevation steadily. The final 500 m gets noticeably steeper. Most people take 2–3 hours at a comfortable pace. Difficulty: Moderate.
Section 3: Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit (1.5 km, +510 m ascent)
A short but punchy climb. The stone steps give way to a natural trail, and you’ll feel the thin air at ~3,980 m. Most trekkers reach the summit in 45–60 minutes from Tungnath. Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.
Fitness Requirements
You don’t need to be an athlete. But you should be able to walk 8–10 km comfortably and climb stairs for 30–40 minutes without stopping. Two weeks of brisk 45-minute daily walks before the trek makes a significant difference.
The Four Jewels of This Trek
The Chandrashila Trek combines sacred temples, alpine meadows, Himalayan panoramas, and mythological sites, offering one of Uttarakhand’s most scenic and spiritually enriching trekking experiences.
Deoriatal — The Mirror Lake
Deoriatal sits at 2,438 metres, just 3 km above Sari village. It’s a sacred lake surrounded by ringal bamboo and rhododendron forests, with the kind of stillness that makes you forget your phone exists. The morning reflection of Mount Chaukhamba (6,995 m) in the emerald water is one of those images that stays with you. Mythologically, this lake appears in the Mahabharata — the Pandavas are said to have rested here, and Yudhishthira is believed to have had a divine encounter at its banks.
Chopta — The Silent Meadow
Chopta itself, sitting at 2,680 m, is a long meadow flanked by oak, deodar, and rhododendron forest. It’s the base for the Tungnath trek and a place where people often just linger — watching the sunset paint the Himalayan peaks, sipping tea at a small dhaba, and breathing air that doesn’t feel like it belongs to the same world as city life. Often called the ‘Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand’, Chopta is 450 km from Delhi and an easy gateway from Rishikesh.
Tungnath Temple — Lord of the Peaks
The name Tungnath translates to ‘Lord of the Peaks’, which tells you everything. Perched at 3,470 m, Tungnath is the third temple of the Panch Kedar circuit (alongside Kedarnath, Madmaheshwar, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar) and is believed to be over a thousand years old. According to legend, it was built by the Pandavas after the Mahabharata war at the place where Lord Shiva’s arms appeared. The temple opens every year in April/May after the winter closure.
The view from Tungnath’s courtyard — Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Bandarpunch, Nilkantha — is already extraordinary. The summit takes it further.
Chandrashila Summit — The Moon Rock
Chandrashila means ‘Moon Rock’ — a name that feels earned when you see the moonrise from here in winter. The summit at 3,980 m is the highest point of this trek and the culmination of everything. On a clear day, you can see Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath peak, Bandarpunch, and the Gangotri group. There’s a small temple at the top dedicated to Lord Shiva. The sunrise view from Chandrashila is often described as one of the finest in the entire Garhwal region.
Quick Facts
Everything you need to know before starting the trek.
Base Camp
Sari Village
Pickup
Natraj Chowk, Rishikesh
Nearest Railway Station
Rishikesh
Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant Airport
Temperature
Summers: 25° Max / 10° Min · Winters: 18° Max / -5° Min
Mobile Network
Sari/Chopta: Jio/Airtel/VI available. During trek no networks available.
Electricity
Chopta is the last point with electricity. Note: Electricity is intermittent and can be absent for most of the day during winter/late summer (when monsoon starts).
Last ATM
Ukhimath / Rudraprayag, on the way to Chopta. Note: ATMs in hilly regions are often non-functioning.
Detailed Itinerary
Click below to download the full detailed itinerary as PDF.
Day 1: Rishikesh to Sari Village (Base Camp)
Embark on your adventure from Rishikesh to Sari Village, the base camp for the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek. The journey takes you through the heart of Uttarakhand — passing through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath — transitioning from the bustling spiritual life of Rishikesh into the tranquil and majestic settings of the Himalayas. As you travel, the landscape gradually shifts, offering glimpses of rural mountain life and the natural beauty that characterizes this region. Reach Sari village by evening. Overnight stay in homestay/hotel.
- 🛣️ Distance: 200 km (Drive) ·
- ⏱️ Time: 7–8 hrs from Kathgodam
Day 2: Sari → Deoriatal → Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila Summit
Early morning trek from Sari to Deoriatal lake (3 km uphill) — a pristine emerald lake offering breathtaking reflections of Mount Chaukhamba. After spending time at the lake, descend back to Sari and drive to Chopta (approx 35 km). From Chopta, begin the steep but rewarding 3.5 km trek to Tungnath — the world’s highest Shiva temple at 3,470 m. Continue another 1.5 km ascent to Chandrashila summit (3,980 m) for jaw-dropping 360° views of Chaukhamba, Bandarpunch, Nilkantha, Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Kedar Dome. Descend back to Chopta. Overnight in camp/hotel.
- 🥾 Trek: ~12 km · 🛣️ Drive: ~35 km ·
- ⏱️ Time: 8–10 Hours
- 📍 Max Alt: 3,980 m
Day 3: Chopta to Rishikesh
After breakfast, depart from Chopta for the return journey to Rishikesh. This marks the end of your trekking adventure as you retrace the route back through the scenic landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas. The drive back offers a final opportunity to reflect on the experiences and vistas of the past days. Expected arrival in Rishikesh by evening (approx 7:00–8:00 PM). Trek concludes with unforgettable memories.
- 🛣️ Distance: 200 km (Drive)
- ⏱️ Time: 8–9 Hours
Things to Carry
A well-packed bag makes for a smooth trek. Here’s our recommended checklist.
- Basic Gears
- Backpack
- Trekking Shoes
- Trekking Pole
- LED Torch
- One Water Bottle (one litre)
- Lunch Box
- Basic Medications (or prescribed if any)
- Clothes
- Trekking Jacket
- Warm Layers
- Two trek pants
- Full sleeve dry-fit T-shirts
- Thermals (1 pair)
- Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 50/70)
- Lip Balm (SPF 30)
- Synthetic hand gloves
- Woolen Cap
- Three pairs of Socks
- Raincoat/Poncho is a must
- Others & Documents
- Daypack (Recommended) for summit Day
- Plastic cover (for wet clothes in winters and rainy season)
- Original government photo ID (Passport / Aadhaar / Driving License / Voter ID)
- Photocopy of the same ID
Best Time for the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
One of the best things about this trek is that it runs throughout the year — just with very different flavours depending on the season.
March to June — Spring Bloom (Best for First-Timers)
The rhododendron forests are in full fire — brilliant reds and pinks cascading down the hillsides. The weather is mild, trails are clear, and the Himalayan views are crisp after winter. April and May are the sweet spot. Late May to June brings warmer days and some pre-monsoon cloud, but remains beautiful. This is the most popular period and the best time for the Chandrashila trek if you want the full visual experience.
July to August — Monsoon (Not Recommended)
The valley turns a lush, deep green — undeniably beautiful. But rain means slippery trails, landslide risk on the road, leeches in the forest, and often clouded mountain views. Unless you’re an experienced trekker who doesn’t mind the uncertainty, it’s best to avoid July–August.
September to November — Autumn Clarity (Best for Peak Views)
Post-monsoon skies are crystal clear and the air is crisp and cold. The Himalayan peaks appear closer than they should. October is arguably the finest month on the entire Chopta Tungnath trail. Forests are golden, crowds are moderate, and the full panorama from Chandrashila is at its sharpest. Highly recommended.
December to February — Winter Snow Trek
If you’ve done summer treks and want something more challenging and ethereally beautiful, the Chopta Tungnath winter snow trek delivers. The trail is blanketed in white, temperatures plunge to -5°C to -15°C, and the entire landscape becomes monochrome and magical. Note that Tungnath Temple is closed (deity shifted to Mukkumath), and you’ll need microspikes, proper layering, and a guide. Suitable for trekkers with some prior experience.
| Season | Months | Highlights | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Mar – Jun | Rhododendrons, mild weather | First-timers, families |
| 🌧 Monsoon | Jul – Aug | Lush green, risky roads | Not recommended |
| 🍂 Autumn | Sep – Nov | Crystal clear views | Best panoramic views |
| ❄️ Winter | Dec – Feb | Snow trail, magical skies | Experienced trekkers |
Inclusion & Exclusion
Complete cost breakdown — know exactly what’s covered in your Chopta Chandrashila trek package.
Inclusions
- Transport support from Rishikesh to Rishikesh.
- All vegetarian meals starting from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day.
- Hotel accommodation in Sari/Chopta in triple sharing for first and last day.
- Triple sharing Tent accommodation throughout the trek.
- Professional guide, cook and support staff.
- Rent for camping equipment.
- Clean sleeping bags and mats.
- Good quality ¾ or 4 season 'A' shaped or dome tents.
- Kitchen tents, common tents, toilet tents.
- Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (non-Indian passport holders: additional charge).
- Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment (NOT personal luggage).
- All applicable taxes.
Exclusions
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above.
- Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions.
- Accommodation in Dehradun.
- Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, road blocks etc.
- Porter/mule charges to carry personal luggage – Can be arranged at an additional cost of INR 500 per day (1 soft bag per person < 12 kg).
Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Packages
All our Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek packages are designed to give you a seamless, worry-free Himalayan experience from the moment you step into our vehicle at Rishikesh to when you return. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s covered.
Package Pricing
Standard Package | ₹6,500/- per person (group of 6+) |
Small Group / Couple | ₹7,500/- per person (group of 2–5) |
Private / Custom Trek | On request — contact us for quote |
Advance to Book | 30% advance to confirm your slot |
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel, reduce, or amend a guaranteed reservation, please do so by 12 noon, 15 days prior to arrival to avoid cancellation charges. Any cancellation made within 15 days of arrival will be 100% non-refundable. Bookings made under non-cancellable or non-amendable packages or rates cannot be canceled or amended, and the full amount of the advance paid will be treated as the cancellation fee. The same terms apply if guests do not show up.
For all bookings other than non-cancellable ones, if the guest does not show up, the complete booking will be non-refundable. If the guest chooses to check out early, one night’s room rate, including taxes, will be charged. No cancellations will be accepted over the phone or via WhatsApp message. Please reply to the email confirmation you received at the time of booking to request a cancellation.
No refunds will be provided in case of problems arising due to government orders, harsh weather conditions, protests, landslides, or other unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, we usually have a backup plan ready and will proceed with that. Sometimes, we may have to cancel activities mentioned in the itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.
If a trek is called off at the last moment due to natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances (such as rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strikes, or bandhs), participants will be provided with a travel voucher for the same amount. This voucher can be used within 365 days of the issuance date for any package of equal value, subject to availability.
If a trek or trip has to be aborted midway due to natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances, no refund will be provided. Mountainiax will not bear any extra expenses due to such natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances.
Refund Policy
The following refund shall be payable to the user in case of valid cancellation as per the guidelines:
Note: The above-mentioned refunds are subjected to deductions for any expenses that may have been incurred for hotel booking or transport etc. Refunds are applicable on the total cost and not on the advance amount.
Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Gallery
A glimpse of the beauty that awaits you on the trail.
FAQ's
What is the difficulty level of Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?
The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is rated Easy to Moderate, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trail involves gradual ascents and descents, with a few short steep sections between Tungnath and Chandrashila summit.
What is the best time for Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?
The trek can be undertaken throughout the year. The best months are March to June (spring with rhododendron bloom) and September to November (clear Himalayan views). December to February offers a magical snow trek experience, while July–August (monsoon) is best avoided due to landslides.
What does 'Tungnath' mean?
‘Tungnath’ literally translates to ‘Lord of the Peaks’. It is the highest Shiva temple in the world at 3,470 meters and is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit.
Is electricity available during the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?
Electricity is available only at Sari and Chopta. Beyond that, there will be no electricity during the trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila. Carry power banks or solar chargers for your devices.
Is mobile network available during the trek?
Mobile network (Jio, Airtel, VI) is available till Chopta. Beyond Chopta — at Tungnath temple and Chandrashila summit — connectivity is non-existent. This will be a perfect opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
At Sari and Chopta, we offer stays in homestays/hotels providing a glimpse into the local culture. During the trek, accommodation is provided in tents at designated campsites on triple sharing basis.
Is the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek suitable for children?
Yes, children can do the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek, but it depends on their age and fitness level. The trek is classified as easy to moderate. It’s recommended that children should be at least 8–10 years old, physically active, and able to handle long walks and the cold conditions at higher altitudes. Proper preparation and guidance are essential to ensure their safety and comfort during the trek.
Where can I store my extra luggage during the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?
You can store your extra luggage at the base camp hotel/homestay in Sari or Chopta. Many guesthouses and trek organizers offer secure storage facilities, allowing you to leave behind any non-essential items and carry only the necessary gear during the trek.
Is the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek suitable for someone with no prior trekking experience?
Yes, as a beginner, you can absolutely join the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek with Mountainiax! This trek is considered easy to moderate and is one of the best options for first-time trekkers. Our team ensures proper guidance, acclimatization, and safety measures throughout the journey. We also help you prepare with fitness tips and gear recommendations before the trek, making it accessible and enjoyable for beginners.
When does Chopta Tungnath valley turn into full bloom of flowers?
The Chopta valley comes into full bloom during the spring months, typically from late March to early June, when red and pink rhododendrons cover the entire valley. During monsoon (July–August), the valley turns lush green with wildflowers, creating a stunning landscape against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Is Tungnath Temple open all year?
No, Tungnath Temple is closed during winters (typically November to April) when the deity is moved to Mukkumath village. However, the trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila summit can still be done throughout the year — it becomes a beautiful snow trek in winter.
Ready to Trek Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila?
Whether you’re a first-time trekker standing at Natraj Chowk in Rishikesh wondering what you’ve got yourself into, or a seasoned hill-goer coming back for a winter snow trail — the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek has something to offer every single time.
It’s a trek where you walk through forests that smell like cedar and rhododendron, reach a temple that’s been standing for a thousand years, and summit a peak that shows you the full Himalayan amphitheatre in one unbroken sweep. It’s accessible, affordable, and genuinely extraordinary.
Starting from ₹6,500/- per person, with departures throughout the year, certified guides, and a team that’s been doing this for years — booking with Mountainiax means your mountain days are in good hands.
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