Chopta–Chandrashila Trek Overview
Location
• Situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Chopta is also known as the “Mini Switzerland of India.”
Altitude Profile
• Chopta (Base): ~8,790 ft (2,680 m)
• Tungnath Temple: ~12,073 ft (3,680 m)
• Chandrashila Summit: ~13,123 ft (4,000 m)
If you dream of witnessing the Himalayas in their purest form, the Chopta–Chandrashila trek is your gateway to paradise. Known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Chopta is a hidden gem tucked away in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas. The trail winds through enchanting oak and rhododendron forests, wide alpine meadows, and sacred shrines, leading you to the highest Shiva temple in the world – Tungnath.
The journey culminates at the Chandrashila summit (3,690 m), where a breathtaking 360° panorama of snow-clad peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Kedarnath awaits you. Whether it’s the vibrant rhododendron bloom in spring, the crisp skies of autumn, or the snow-draped wonderland in winter, every season paints Chopta in a new light.
Perfect for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike, this short yet rewarding trek combines adventure, spirituality, and unmatched Himalayan beauty. Wake up to golden sunrises above the peaks, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and create memories that will stay with you forever.
The Chopta–Chandrashila trek isn’t just a journey—it’s an experience of the soul.
Highlights of the Trek
1. Tungnath Temple – The Highest Shiva Temple in the World
o Part of the Panch Kedar.
o Strongly connected to the Mahabharata; Pandavas built this temple to
worship Lord Shiva.
2. Chandrashila Summit – The Crown of Chopta
o Known for a 360° view of Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi,
Chaukhamba, Trishul, Kedarnath, Bandarpunch, and Kedar Dome.
o Sunrise and sunset from Chandrashila are unforgettable experiences.
3. Year-Round Trekking Experience
o Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow-covered trails, frozen temple surroundings.
o Spring (March–April): Rhododendron forests in full bloom.
o Summer (May–June): Clear skies, pleasant weather, and alpine meadows.
o Autumn (Oct–Nov): Crisp mountain views, best visibility.
o Avoid Monsoon (July–Sept): Trails become slippery, prone to landslides.
4. Short & Beginner-Friendly
o A trek that gives the thrill of high-altitude summits without long expedition
days.
o Suitable for families, beginners, and weekend trekkers.
5. Wildlife and Nature
o Part of Kedarnath Sanctuary → Spotting Himalayan Monal (state bird),
musk deer, fox, and unique flora like rhododendron and alpine wildflowers.
Trek Difficulty & Details
• Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights (Ex-Delhi: 6 Days / 5 Nights)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Trek Distance: ~10 km (round trip Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → return)
• Trekking Hours/Day: 3–6 hrs
• Accommodation: Guesthouses & campsites in Chopta
