Trekking in Chopta Tugnath: A Complete Guide to Best Trails, Tips & Packages
Leading to the world’s highest Shiva temple, Chopta-Tugnath trek is among the most scenic trails in Uttarakhand. Chopta trekking adds a spiritual touch to the Himalayan adventures. It is also one of the easiest treks for beginners, while its rich history and Himalayan charm make it equally rewarding for pilgrims and seasoned trekkers.
About Chopta and Tugnath
Chopta and Tugnath are located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Acting as a base camp for trek to the holy Tugnath Temple and Chandrashila, Chopta is located at an altitude of around 8,790 feet.
Surrounded by meadows, and oak and deodar forests, the trail from Chopta leads to a 1,000-year-old Tugnath Temple. The shrine is situated at a height of around 3,680 meters. It is believed that after the war, Pandavas wanted to seek Lord Shiva’s forgiveness. However, Lord Shiva, who wanted to avoid them, took a bull’s form and hid under the ground. Later, his body parts appeared at various locations.
It was Lord Shiva’s arms that appeared at the Tugnath Temple. The historic temple, along with Kedarnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar and Kalpeshwar, constitute the Panch Kedar circuit (a group of five holy Shiva temples).
How can I reach the Tugnath Temple?
First, you have to reach Chopta, from where you start the 3.5-km trek to the holy temple. Top travel agencies, like Musafir Baba, offer Chopta Tugnath packages from various cities in North India, including Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun.
For a vast majority, who doesn’t know, there is a city called Srinagar in Uttarakhand as well. From all the places we mentioned earlier, you travel to Srinagar Garhwal in Uttarakhand and then Ukhimath. You can take a shared jeep ride from Ukhimath to Chopta. This is where your real journey begins.
The 3.5-km trek from Chopta to the Tugnath Temple takes around two-three hours, depending on your pace and fitness level. Besides the views of the Himalayan range and forests, the trek is also dotted with a few resting places.
After paying obeisance at the Tugnath Temple, you can also trek further to the Chandrashila peak. The Tugnath- Chandrashila is slightly more difficult than the trek from Chopta, but is manageable for most trekkers. The extended trek rewards you with a panoramic view of snow-covered mountains.
Professionals and students can easily take up this weekend trek from Delhi and replace city’s noise with the nature’s calm and serenity to ease their mind.
Chopta Tugnath Trek Itinerary
A standard visit to Tugnath Temple required two to three days (starting from the day you arrive at Chopta). You should at least dedicate a day to the beautiful Chopta village. Check in to a homestay or set up the campsite and acclimatise to the altitude. Its forests and meadows also offer a peaceful setting for yoga and meditation.
Next day, you should begin the trek to the Tugnath Temple early in the morning. After completing the three-hour trek and visiting the ancient temple, carefully head to the Chandrashila Peak. You must return to Chopta by evening.
Next day, you can head back to Ukhimath or extend your stay to explore some nearby places. We particularly recommend the Deoriatal Lake. It is a beautiful glacial lake that is situated around 17 km from Chopta. It is especially a great site for photography enthusiasts.
What is the best time for Chopta trekking?
One can undertake this trek anytime in a year. Every season here has its own charm. During the summers (between March and June), you can spot all kinds of red, white and pink rhododendron flowers along the route which add to its hues. Hundreds of pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra also undertake this trek in the summers.
Natural environments along the Chopta Tugnath trek are at their peak during the monsoon. But trekking becomes comparatively difficult after late June till September as the region witnesses heavy rainfall. Travellers seeking snow-clad Himalayas should visit in the winters. The area starts witnessing heavy snowfall in December, and then goes on to don a white blanket till February.
What to include in your backpack for Chopta-Tugnath trek?
If you ever undertake a Himalayan trek in India independently or book a Chopta-Tugnath tour package, you should always be prepared for the region's unpredictable weather. But, first you should have all your documents in order. Keep your Aadhaar card or any other ID proof, and booking confirmation receipt if you are travelling with a group under our Chopta tour package. Besides, make sure you are carrying adequate cash in case of any emergency.
In terms of cloths, include full-sleeve t-shirts and track pants, sweaters and fleece jackets, comfortable waterproof shoes and at least three pair of woollen socks. If you are travelling in summers, remember to pack a hat and sunglasses for UV protection. On the other hand, winter travellers should also pack a woollen cap, muffler and lightweight gloves.
A walking stick is also helpful during the descent of the trek in Chopta. Power bank, torch with extra batteries and a first-aid kit also remain our forever trek essentials. Additionally, you should pack at least two litres of water, some snacks and packed food.
What are the accommodation options in Chopta?
Chopta is a small village where trekkers heading to Tugnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak stay overnight before beginning their trek the next day. If you have a tight budget, you opt for affordable guesthouses with simple rooms and basic amenities. Most of these family-run guesthouses provide meals at minimal additional charges.
Teahouses with dormitory-style rooms and shared washrooms can be another good option for solo travellers. If you are visiting in the summer or autumn, you can also camp near the meadows. Local operators and tour agencies include camping in their trek packages, which includes transportation, stay, food and local guides.
Why Chopta-Tugnath Trek deserves a spot on Your Bucket List?
Chopta trekking offers a perfect balance of nature and spiritual energy. Its meadows, oak forests and lake are a perfect treat for nature lovers. While the 3.5-km route to the Tugnath Temple lands it among easy treks for beginners, the steep climb and rocky terrains en route to Chandrashila completes the feat for adventure enthusiasts. Families looking for a nature trek in Uttarakhand can also undertake this journey with people of all age groups.
