The Chopta Tungnath Trek is one of the most accessible and spiritually significant Himalayan treks in India. Located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, this trek leads to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, and further to Chandrashila Peak, offering panoramic views of some of the tallest Himalayan mountains.
Often called the “Mini Switzerland of India”, Chopta is a year-round destination that appeals equally to trekkers, pilgrims, photographers, and first-time mountain travelers. The trek is short, scenic, and achievable, yet deeply rewarding - making it one of the most popular Himalayan treks for beginners.
Chopta Tungnath Trek Overview
Region: Uttarakhand (Garhwal Himalayas)
Trek Duration: 2–4 days
Maximum Altitude:
Tungnath: ~12,073 ft
Chandrashila Peak: ~13,000 ft
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Base Location: Chopta
Best For: Beginners, weekend trekkers, pilgrims, photographers
The trek lies within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounded by dense forests and alpine meadows.
Why Chopta Tungnath Trek Is So Popular
The popularity of the Chopta Tungnath trek comes from its unique combination of spirituality, scenery, and accessibility.
Home to Tungnath Temple, one of the Panch Kedar temples
Short trek with high-altitude rewards
Stunning views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath peaks
Suitable for beginners and families (season-dependent)
Can be done in all seasons with different experiences
Unlike long Himalayan treks, Chopta offers a complete mountain experience in a short time frame.
Mythological & Spiritual Significance of Tungnath
Tungnath Temple is part of the Panch Kedar, a group of five temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to mythology, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings, but he avoided them and appeared in different forms across the Garhwal Himalayas.
At Tungnath, Lord Shiva’s arms are worshipped. The temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and remains accessible even when snow covers the region.
This spiritual heritage adds a profound cultural depth to the trek.
Chopta Tungnath Trek Route & Trail Description
The trek starts from Chopta, a small hill station surrounded by alpine meadows and forests.
Route Flow:
Rishikesh / Haridwar → Chopta (road journey)
Chopta → Tungnath Temple (trek)
Tungnath → Chandrashila Peak (optional extension)
Return via the same route
Trail Experience:
Well-marked stone-paved path up to Tungnath
Gradual ascent with resting points
Snow-covered trail in winter
Open ridge walk to Chandrashila
The trail is beginner-friendly but becomes steeper near Chandrashila.
Detailed Chopta Tungnath Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Rishikesh / Haridwar to Chopta
A scenic drive through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath. You’ll witness river confluences, terraced farms, and Himalayan landscapes. Overnight stay at Chopta.
Day 2: Chopta to Tungnath, Trek to Chandrashila (Optional)
Begin early morning trek from Chopta to Tungnath Temple (approx. 3.5 km). After temple visit, continue to Chandrashila Peak (1.5 km ascent). Enjoy panoramic views before descending back to Chopta.
Day 3: Chopta to Rishikesh / Haridwar
Return journey concludes the trek.
Extended itineraries may include Deoria Tal or Ukhimath.
Best Time to Visit Chopta Tungnath Trek
Spring & Summer (March to June)
Pleasant weather
Clear mountain views
Rhododendron forests in bloom
Monsoon (July to August)
Lush greenery
Slippery trails
Risk of landslides (travel cautiously)
Autumn (September to November)
Crisp weather
Excellent visibility
Ideal for photography
Winter (December to February)
Heavy snowfall
Trek becomes snow trek
Requires proper gear and experience
Best months: April–June and September–October
Chopta Tungnath Trek Difficulty Level
The trek is classified as easy to moderate.
Chopta to Tungnath: Easy to moderate
Tungnath to Chandrashila: Moderate (steep final ascent)
The altitude gain is gradual, making it suitable for first-time trekkers with basic fitness.
Altitude, Acclimatisation & Health
Though the trek reaches over 12,000 ft:
Most people acclimatise well
Slow pace and hydration help
Avoid rushing to Chandrashila if feeling uncomfortable
Altitude sickness is uncommon but possible.
Fitness Preparation for Chopta Tungnath Trek
Minimal preparation required:
Brisk walking or jogging for 2–3 weeks
Stair climbing practice
Light backpack training
Basic fitness is sufficient for most trekkers.
What to Pack for Chopta Tungnath Trek
Clothing
Thermal layers
Fleece or insulated jacket
Waterproof jacket
Trek pants
Woollen cap & gloves
Trekking Essentials
Good trekking shoes
Daypack
Trekking pole (optional)
Other Essentials
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Personal medicines
Headlamp
Water bottle
Accommodation Options in Chopta
Campsites
Budget guesthouses
Eco-lodges
Facilities are basic but comfortable. Electricity may be limited in winter.
Food & Water Availability
Simple vegetarian meals
Tea stalls near Tungnath (seasonal)
Carry snacks and energy bars
It’s advisable to carry refillable bottles.
Wildlife, Flora & Scenic Highlights
Being part of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary:
Musk deer (rare sightings)
Himalayan monal (state bird of Uttarakhand)
Rhododendron and alpine flora
Scenic highlights include:
Chaukhamba massif
Trishul range
Snow-clad Himalayan ridges
Chopta Tungnath in Winter (Snow Trek Experience)
Winter transforms Chopta into a snow paradise:
Deep snow-covered trails
Frozen meadows
Clear skies
However:
Temple may be inaccessible
Snow trekking experience required
Proper gear is mandatory
Safety Tips & Responsible Trekking
Start early to avoid weather changes
Follow marked trails
Avoid plastic usage
Respect temple customs
Trekking responsibly helps preserve the fragile ecosystem.
Chopta Tungnath Trek Cost & Packages
Costs vary based on:
Duration
Season
Accommodation type
Inclusions
Most packages include:
Stay
Meals
Local transfers
Guide support
Chopta Tungnath vs Other Popular Treks
Trek | Duration | Difficulty | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
Chopta Tungnath | 2–3 Days | Easy–Moderate | 13,000 ft |
Nag Tibba | 2 Days | Easy–Moderate | 9,915 ft |
Har Ki Dun | 6–7 Days | Moderate | 11,675 ft |
Chopta stands out for short duration + spiritual significance.
Who You Should Choose the Chopta Tungnath Trek
Beginners & first-time trekkers
Spiritual travelers
Weekend adventure seekers
Photographers
Final Thoughts on Chopta Tungnath Trek
The Chopta Tungnath Trek is a perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking. It blends spirituality, scenic beauty, and accessibility into a short yet fulfilling journey. Whether you trek to seek adventure, peace, or panoramic views, Chopta Tungnath offers an experience that stays with you long after you return.
