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Tungnath

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Tungnath - Shiva Temple at Hightest Altitude

Tungnath peacefully adorned on the Chandranath Parvat is the highest Shiva temple in the world and the highest Panch Kedar temple of Uttarakhand . 

It is the third (Tritiya Kedar) in the pecking order of the Panch Kedars . Tungnath is perched at an elevation of 3, 680 metres above sea level and is considered to be more than 1,000 years old.

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Tungnath Temple Trek

This highest temple of Lord Shiva is an ironically easiest one to achieve. Tungnath Temple can be reached by a moderately easy trek of 3.5km commencing from Chopta (2700mts). The region receives heavy snowfall during winters making Tungnath temple tough to access. The altitude of Tungnath Temple is approx 3600 mts. 

Tungnath trek is well laid and doesn't necessarily require a guide except during peak winters when the area is covered with snow.

tungnath trek view

Why Visit Tungnath Temple?

Magnificent in its architecture and artistic structure, Tungnath Temple is considered to be more than 1000 years old . The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and few other idols of Goddess Parvati and other gods can be seen in the vicinity. This sacred temple was discovered by Adi Shankaracharya and now the priest of this temple is a local Brahmins of Makku village.

The symbolic image of Lord Shiva is moved to Mukunath during winters, situated 19kms away. The trek goes through rocky terrains, green meadows and rhododendron bushes showering us with visual vistas of nature. The invigorating views of the imposing Himalayas boosts with confidence in the heart of the trekkers. Several named and unnamed peaks of the Himalayan range are distinctly visible from Tungnath.

Tungnath Temple 2023 Opening and Closing Dates

The kapat of Tungnath temple were thrown open for the pilgrims on 26 April 2023.  .Hundreds of pilgrim attended the opening ceremony of Tungnath Temple. The kapat of Kedarnath Temple were also opened today.

Closing Date of Tungnath Temple 2023: Tungnath temple was closed for winters on 1 Nov 2023 . Closing date of Tungnath temple is announced on the occasion of Dussehra. Last year Tungnath Temple was closed on 7 November 2022. However, the trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila will be open in winters.

Closing date of Tungnath Dham is announced on the day of Vaijayadashmi/ Dusshera. In the winters the deity of Tungnath remains at its winter seat at Makkumath Temple .

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Tungnath Travel News

Snowfall was reported on Monday in regions such as Kedarnath Dham, including Madmaheshwar, Tungnath, Chandrashila, etc. Additionally, light snowfall was observed in tourist spots like Chopta, Dugalbitta and in Deoriatal. 

The phenomenon extended to Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham, Harshil Valley, and other high-altitude areas of Uttarkashi. Despite the snowfall, road movements remained unaffected at present.

All temples governed by the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, including the Badrinath and Kedarnath shrines, will observe closure at 4 pm on Saturday due to the lunar eclipse.

The Badrinath and Kedarnath temples are scheduled to reopen during the brahma muhurta after the morning purification puja on Sunday.

Other affiliated shrines affected by the closure include the Shri Narasingh Temple in Joshimath , Second Kedar Madmaheshwar , Third Kedar Tungnath , Shri Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath , and Yoga Badri .

Activities in Tungnath

Trekking   – The trek route to Tungnath commences at Chopta and involves easy to medium grade trekking. The enthralling treks take some through enchanting meadows, hushed hamlets, and conifers and oak forests. In winter, the trekking route is covered in snow. You can continue the trek to Chandrashila Summit as well.

Pilgrimage – Perched at a height of 3,600 meters, Tungnath shrine is one of the revered Panch Kedar  dedicated to Lord Shiva in Uttarakhand and large number of pilgrims visits the shrine. The shrine sleeps under a thick blanket of snow during winters. 

Bird Watching – You can see Monal and other birds easily around Tungnath. If lucky you can also spot musk deers in the region.     

Tungnath Travel Tips

  • If one is trekking to Tungnath, make sure you are physically fit. The trek route is relatively easily but running, cycling and swimming can all help improve cardiovascular stamina.
  • One can also find mules and porters for hire, especially during the peak season. 
  • Travelling in monsoons should be avoided as the hilly region in Uttarakhand has its fair share of incessant rainfall. Moreover, the region is prone to unexpected landslides and road blocks.
  • Being situated at a remote location, facilities like ATMs, petrol pumps are not available at Tungnath, not even at Chopta. One has to go all the way to Gopeshwar or Ukhimath to find these facilities.

Staying in Tungnath

Lately, some budget accommodations/lodges have opened up at Tungnath for tourists and pilgrims. These properties are mainly operated by local priests with limited amenities and services. They can be booked on arrival. 

Most of the tourists prefer staying at Chopta or Duggalbitta which has a handful of accommodation and Swiss Tent Camps. We recommend you to stay at Mayadeep Hotel in Chopta .

Tungnath Food Guide

Tungnath have two-three basic eateries which offers maggie, tea, dal, rice, seasonal vegetable to the trekkers and pilgrims. Non-vegetarian food and alcohol is strictly prohibited at Tungnath. 

Mythology about Tungnath

The mythological background of Tungnath Temple is associated with the epic Mahabharata. Vyas Rishi told the Pandavas that they were guilty of killing their own brothers in the war and their sins would be expiated only if Lord Shiva pardoned them. Pandavas began to search Lord Shiva in the Himalayas and Lord Shiva kept avoiding them because they were guilty.

In order to escape from the Pandavas, Lord Shiva disguised himself as a bull and took refuge underground. The places where the parts of the bull were found are now renowned Shiva temples. Tungnath Temple is the place where his hands (bahu) were supposedly seen.

Another 1.5 km steep trek take you to Chandrashila summit which offers a majestic view of snow clad Himalayan peaks including Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba. To know about how to reach Tungnath, refer to Chopta driving directions . Tungnath is a 3km mild trek which begins from Chopta

Latest 2023 News & Updates from Tungnath

Tungnath photo gallery.

Tungnath temple was closed for winter today. The

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Check out the Tungnath weather report for March

Tungnath Weather in March

The minimun and maximum temperature in March in Tungnath is -4 ° C and 10 ° C respectively. The weather is generally covered with snow in March and you would feel chilling cold throughout the day. Heavy Woolen clothes are recommended for Tungnath in March.

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tungnath trek view

What is Tungnath famous for?

Tungnath is famous among tourist as Shiva Temple, Panch Kedar, Trekking, Meadows, Trek, Trekking, Pilgrimage, Snow Trek.

Tungnath is recommended destination for Couples, Family and Kids, Foreigners, Groups, Solo.

Tungnath is popular destination for following activities/ interests - Adventure , Bird Watching , Camping , Char Dham Route , Hiking , Panch Kedar , Pilgrimage , Religious , Shiva Temples , Temples , Trekking , Weekend Getaway , Winter Treks .

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Tungnath highlights.

  • One of Panch Kedar Temples in Uttarakhand
  • Highest Temple of Lord Shiva
  • One of the best trek - Round The Year
  • Popular winter snow trek (Dec to Mar)
  • 3.5 Kms trekking from Chopta
  • 1.5 kms trek from Tungnath will lead you to the Summit of 4000 mts (Chandrashilla)

Uttarakhand Travel Update

Snowfall Update: You may find snow in these locations in Uttarakhand - Auli , Chopta , Sankri , Kedarkantha , Dayara Bugyal , Munsiyar , Harsil

Best Winter Snow treks in Uttarakhand : Kedarkantha Trek , Har ki Dun , Kuari Pass Trek , Chopta , Deoriatal , Brahmatal Trek .

Char Dham Closing Dates:  Gangotri , Yamunotri and Kedarnath dhams are closed now. Badrinath temple will be closed 19 Nov. Check out Char Dham Yatra tours : Char Dham News . Char Dham Registration is compulsory for visiting Char Dham Temples. Check Kedarnath Helicopter Ticket booking guide .

Traveling to Uttarakhand?  Check out Uttarakhand Covid Stats , Uttarakhand Travel Guidelines  and Uttarakhand Travel News

Char Dham Update:  Gangotri , Yamunotri , Kedarnath and Badrinath are open for pilgrims. Check out Char Dham Yatra tours : Char Dham News . Char Dham Registration is compulsory for visiting Char Dham Temples. Check Kedarnath Helicopter Ticket booking guide .

Last Updated: 06 Mar 2024

Tungnath overview

  • Temperature in Mar 10 /-4 °C
  • Best time to visit Tungnath Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov,
  • Located in Rudraprayag, Garhwal
  • Recommended stay 2 days
  • Railway Station Rishikesh, 211 kms
  • Nearest Airport Jolly Grant Airport, 225 kms
  • Famous for Shiva Temple, Panch Kedar, Trekking, Meadows, Trek, Trekking, Pilgrimage, Snow Trek

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Tale of 2 Backpackers

Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek Itinerary and details (FAQs answered)

Uttarakhand , Treks & hikes

Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

Last Updated on: Jul 16, 2023  

About this blog: We always wanted to visit the Panch Kedars and Tungnath was the first one we explored. Along with it, we also did Deoriatal Chandrashila trek. This blog will give you all the details about the trek, how to reach and other important tips and guides.

One of them is the highest of the Panch Kedars while the other has an interesting story surrounding it. I am talking about the Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek in Uttarakhand . While Tungnath is one of the Panch (five) Kedars , Deoriatal Chandrashila trek undoubtedly offers one of the best views of the Uttarakhand mountain ranges. From the Chandrashila summit, you get a stunning view of almost all the major summits of eastern and western Uttarakhand.

Did we tell you, that this is one of the easiest treks from where you can see all the ranges so close?

Tungnath Chandrashila trek

While the Tungnath Chandrashila trek starts from Chopta, a beautiful destination in Uttarakhand, the Deoriatal trek starts from Sari village. Both these treks are usually done together. We have already mentioned the importance of Tungnath of being one of the five Kedars. Deoriatal, on the other hand, is known for the lake at the backdrop of the mighty Himalayan ranges.

Know all about Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

The Himalayas is full of stories and myth. We love stories and so we look for them wherever we go. So we start of the article with a little background mythology and stories related to these three places –  Tungnath Deoriatal and Chandrashila. If you are fond of stories and mythology, keep on reading, or else jump to the next section.

Tungnath Chandrashila Deoriatal Trek Map

Hope this map helps you to understand the route.

Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek Map

The legend of Tungnath

What is so special about Tunganath? The fact, that it has the highest temple of Lord Shiva at a height of 3680m. Or the fact that it offers a completely stunning, mesmerizing panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges. It might also be the fascinating legend behind the Tungnath shrine. Whatever be it, we urge you to read about the story behind Tungnath. It will help you to understand and appreciate the place and the people who you might see on the way to Tungnath trek a tad bit better.

Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

The legend of Tunganath is very intimately related to the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Mahabharata tells the greatest political saga of all times where two families Pandavas and Kauravas fight against each other for the kingdom. After the 18 days war at Kurukshetra, the Pandavas won the battle after killing all their 100 Kaurava brothers and their relatives.

After winning the war, the Pandavas were grieved at this mass killing and were repentant of their action. After all, they were their brothers and relatives that they had killed in the war! So they went for Narada’s advice who asked them to ask for forgiveness from Lord Shiva. Only the master of the universe will be able to absolve them of their sins. On the other hand, Narada went and informed Lord Shiva that the Pandavas were seeking him for forgiveness.

cairns and sunrise from Chandrashila

Lord Shiva was convinced of the sins of the Pandavas and did not think appropriate to exonerate the Pandavas of their sins. Neither did he want to face the Pandavas. So he took the form of a bull and hid at Guptakashi, the underground heaven. Narada, in the meanwhile, informed the Pandavas of the whereabouts of Lord Shiva. The Pandavas went in search of the Lord. After a long search, the Pandavas met a Bull on their way. The Bull was disguised Lord Shiva and he tried to hide from them. Bhima, the strongest of the Pandava brothers chased the bull.

The bull later rematerialized at five different parts and these places later came to be known as Panch Kedars . Different parts of the bull rose at different locations – the hump at Kedarnath, the limbs at Tunganath, the navel and stomach surfaced at Madamaheshwar, the face at Rudranath and the hairs at Kalpeshwar. It is believed that the Pandavas had built temples at all the five locations and were finally freed of their sins. It is also believed that the front portion of the bull fell at Pashupatinath in Nepal.

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Tungnath Temple

The Tungnath Temple is a small temple built on the Chandranath Parbat in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Located just below the Chandrashila peak, it is said to be one of the highest temples of Lord Shiva at an altitude of 12073 feet or 3680m. The temple is built in the traditional north India architecture style. There are a number of shrines surrounding the temple and at the entrance, you will find an idol of Lord Ganesh.

Ganesh idol at Tungnath Temple

In the main sanctum, ashtadhatu (made of eight metals) idols of sage Vyas and Kaal Bhairav (demi-god) are placed. The temple also houses the images of the Pandavas and silver plaques of other four Kedar shrines. An idol of Adi Guru Shankaracharya is placed near the idol of Shiva. The temple remains closed during the winters and during that time the deity along with the temple priests are moved to Mukumath, 19 km from Tunganath. The journey dates of the deity from Mukumath to the temple and back is decided by the priests and is done with much reverence by the locals.

Stories and legend about Chandrashila or moon rock

Sunrise at Chandrashila

Chandrashilais the summit of the Chandranath Parbat on which the Tunganath Temple is situated. As we said earlier there is no dearth of stories in the Himalayan region. Legend has it that the Moon God Chandra spent time here in penance.

Did you know that Chandrashila literally means the moon rock?

Another legend says that Lord Rama meditated here at the Chandrashila summit after defeating the demon king Ravana. Whatever be the legend behind the place, Chandrashila peak offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges of Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi peaks, Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, Gangotri and Yamunotri peaks. The peak is at a height of about 12083 feet or 3683m. There is a temple dedicated to River Ganga at the summit.

Legend behind Deoriatal

Deoriatal Lake at evening

It seems that the Pandava brothers of Mahabharata not only fought to win at the battlefields, but they were also wanderers and trekkers. Deoriatal is also related to a mythological tale about the Pandavas. It is said that Yaksha (a demi-god) asked questions to the Pandavas before allowing them to drink water from the lake.

Also known as Devariya Tal , it is believed that this was the “ Indra Sarovar ” mentioned in the Puranas and the gods used to come here for taking a bath! Well, with the view of all the majestic peaks at the background, the place was surely meant to be for the gods!

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The most common itinerary for Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrasila Trek

We mostly get questions about the itinerary to take for TungnathDeoriatalChandrasila Trek. So we decided to share the most common itinerary for the Deoriatal, Tungnath and Chandrashila trek. This was also the route we took for the trek. For the TungnathDeoriatalChandrasilatrek, you have to reach Haridwar or Rishikesh first. So we will start the itinerary from there.

Day 1 | Haridwar/ Rishikesh – Ukhimath – Sari – Deoriatal

We started early from Rishikesh and took a bus from towards Ukhimath. It is about 7-8 hours from Rishikesh through the beautiful Devprayag and Rudraprayag. Sari is about 12km from Ukhimath. We did not get any shared vehicle from Ukhimath towards Sari and so hired a cab to the village.

We usually do not book our accommodations while travelling. We believe that that in India there is always a room available. After arriving at Sari, we looked around asking people for places to stay at Sari. We were shown the house of Mr Negi. We reached there and were welcomed by Mr and MrsNegi. Knowing that we did not have our lunch, Mrs Negi quickly went on to prepare something for us. While we waited for food, we talked with Negiji, a gentle person and a trekker himself. He suggested us to trek to Deoriatal that day itself and stay at the tent there. It was a great proposal and we happily agreed.

Entrance of Deoriatal trek

After having our lunch, we started our trek towards Deoriatal. Sari to Deoriatal is about 2.5-3km and it took us around 2 hours to reach Deoriatal. The trail is well marked and you do not need a guide for it. There were a number of tents and we were the only one there that day. We chose one and stayed there for the night.

Deoriatal is located at an altitude of 2438m surrounded by dense forests and having the snowcapped ranges at the backdrop. The reflection of the Chaukhamba range on the clear waters of the lake is simply a delight to see. I was so excited that I would see something like it after Tonglu in Sandakphu and Phalut trek .

Day 2 | Deoriatal – Chopta – Tungnath

Reflection of Chaukhamba on Deoriatal Lake

The next morning, we woke up in order to see the mesmerising view of the ranges on the waters of the Deoriatal Lake. It was a surreal feeling to see the view. Having seen the photographs before, we knew what it looked like. But watching it with our own eyes is a different experience altogether.

After having our breakfast, we trekked down to Sari village. There Negiji had arranged a car for us that would take us to Chopta. We reached Choptaby noon and had our lunch there. Chopta by itself is a very scenic place surrounded by forests of pine, deodar and rhododendrons, meadows and flattering vistas. Chopta is often known as the ‘ Switzerland of India ’, but I don’t think that a place should be named as such. I am sure Switzerland is beautiful, but Chopta is also amazing in its own right.

Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

The initial plan was to stay at Chopta for the night and trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila the next day. But we decided to do the Tungnath trek that day itself. After lunch, we started our trek towards Tungnath.

Tungnath is about 4km from Chopta. The trail is properly paved till Tungnath and there is no need to take any guide. The weather was a bit gloomy. Clouds hang low while we were on our way to Tungnath. We saw many people of different ages on their way to Tungnath or returning from there. Tungnath is one of the holy shrines of Lord Shiva and is visited by a lot of pilgrims. Though our reasons to trek to Tungnath was not religious, we enjoyed hiking through the beautiful trail.

It took us 2 hours to reach Tungnath . There are a number of shops with accommodation facilities below the temple premises. The facilities are very basic with dormitory beds and common toilets, but the people are very warm and welcoming. We decided to stop for the night at one such place. You can also stay at the temple guest room. But remember that the temple remains open for only a fixed time of the year, usually between May to October. Come November, there is a lot of snowfall at Tungnath and reaching Chandrashila becomes difficult.

Day 3 | Tungnath – Chandrashila – Tungnath – Chopta

view from Chandrashila peak, Uttrakhand

We started early in the morning at 4 AM. It was biting cold during that time. We had not anticipated such cold and had not brought jackets with us. I was literally trembling. Seeing me thus, the shop owner gave both of us two jackets. They were old and worn out but was enough to keep us warm. At first, we thought, he was renting us the jacket. When we offered him money for the jackets, but he flatly refused!

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Chandrashila is 1.5 km trek from Tungnath, but this stretch is a tough one. The inclination is almost about 75 degrees and in the biting cold, it became very difficult for us to trek to the summit. Thank god that we had Baba Narayangiri with us! He is sadhu we met at Tungnath. While we were shivering in cold even after wearing the sweater and jackets, he coolly walked with only a shawl. He guided us through the tricky areas and soon we were on the Chandrashila peak.

Sunrise at Chandrashila

It was not yet the time for sunrise and we waited with teeth clattering against each other for the sun to rise. As the sun rose and the first rays fell on the Chaukhamba peak, we simply stood looking at the beauty. For a moment we forgot everything about our camera and that we have to take pictures. We simply stood in awe at the magic of nature.  From Chandrashila, you can see Nanda Devi , the highest mountain located entirely in India. You can also get the majestic views of Chaukhamba, Trishul, Mt Nanda Ghunti, Mt Kamet, Mt Dunagiri, Kedar Dome, Kedarnath, Thalaysagar and the Gangotri ranges .

Sunrise over Chaukhamna range at Chandrashila trek

After the sunrise, we spent some moment at Chandrashila peak while Baba Narayangiri told us about his stories and his visits at the Kumbh Mela. Then we hiked down to Tungnath. We collected our luggage from there and further hiked down to Chopta. We stopped at Chopta for the night.

Day 4 | Chopta – Ukhimath – Haridwar

We started early from Chopta. We shared a car with a few other trekkers we met on the trek and came back to Haridwar .

trekking to Tungnath

This was our Deoriatal Tungnath Chandrashila trek itinerary . You can also do only Tungnath-Chandrashila trek or Deoriatal trek if you do not have enough time.

There is a route from Deoriatal to Tungnath via Rohini Bugyal. We had not taken that route. You can take it, but you would need a guide for it. Most of the commercial trekking companies also take that route. But also keep in mind that camping at RohiniBugyal is not allowed anymore.

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Best time for Deoriatal Trek & Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

Spring (march – april).

Like we always say, the best time to visit a place depends on what you like and want. The spring (March and April) is a great time to visit if you want to see the rhododendrons in bloom. Weather will also be pleasant with warm days and cold nights.

Summer (May – June)

May to June beginning is also a good time to visit. The snow melts and the weather remains pleasant. This is also the best time to do Tungnath and Chandrashila trek. It is only after March that the snow at Chandrashila starts melting and the trail becomes accessible. However, carry woollen clothes, as the nights can be quite cold.

Monsoon (Late June – August)

June to August is monsoon and should best be avoided as the area is prone to landslides.

meadows at Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

Autumn (September – October)

September is a great time to do the trek. Post monsoon, everything will be green, beautiful and fresh. The entire place looks great. The days will be pleasant while the night temperature can drop to 5 degrees.

Autumn arrives in October and brings with it clearer sky and better weather. This is also a good time for the TungnathChandrashila trek. Also, the Tungnath temple remains open till October. While the morning can be pleasant, but nights can be quite chilly. We had visited in October and the night time and early morning were quite chilly.

Tungnath Temple, Chopta

Winter (November – February)

During the winter months, the landscape becomes dull, November being the least favourable month. By December, winter sets in and you will see a blanket of white snow everywhere. The Deoriatal Lake will be half-frozen with snow all around. The temperature will be really low during this time. Also, you have to trek through the snow during this time.

Tungnath Temple will be closed and it is difficult to get accommodation there. You might have to return back to Ukhimath or Duggalbitta for night stay. The roads from Duggalbitta might be closed due to snow during this time. So be prepared to trek to Chopta from Duggalbitta or BaniyaKund. The snow trek to Tungnath is quite an adventure, but you should be careful about the weather and other conditions. Also, it is highly recommended to take a guide with you during the winter.

You might not be able to get to Chandrashila peak in the months of December to March.

Some facts and tips about Tungnath Chandrashila Deoriatal Trek – FAQs answered

Q. how to reach chopta.

Chopta is a small and beautiful settlement area surrounded by evergreen forests and meadows in Uttarakhand. It is a part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Chopta can be best said as the base camp for Tungnath trek.

If you search for Chopta in Google maps, you will come across Chopta near Rudraprayag. Well, there are actually two places named Chopta in the region. The Chopta near Rudraprayag is not the one you are looking for. This is a bigger village and so well marked in Google maps. This is the mistake we had done while looking for Chopta. The Chopta that we are talking about here is the one near Ukhimath.

There are a few routes to reach Chopta. But initially, you have to reach Haridwar or Rishikesh.

  • The nearest airport is at Dehradun. From Dehradun, you will get buses and cabs to Haridwar and Rishikesh.
  • The nearest railway station is at Haridwar, which is well connected with most of the major cities of India by train. You can take an overnight train from Delhi and reach Haridwar in the morning. Rishikesh is further 20 km from Haridwar.
  • From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you will get buses and shared vehicles to Ukhimath. We had taken a bus from Rishikesh to Ukhimath.
  • From Ukhimath, you will get shared jeeps to Chopta or can book a cab as well.
  • The second route is to reach Gopeswar from Haridwar/ Rishikesh and then further travel to Chopta.
  • If you are doing the Deoriatal trek first, then you have to come to Duggalbitta from Sari village and then reach Chopta.

meadow at Tungnath

Q. What can we do at Chopta?

There nothing much to be done at Chopta. The place is beautiful and you can spend your time amidst nature at Chopta. Visit the meadows and try to spot a few Himalayan monals.

Q. Where to stay at Chopta?

There are a few hotels, guesthouses and campsites with basic amenities at Chopta. Better and fancier options of stay are also available some distance ahead of Chota towards Gopeswar. Booking in advance is not really required. You will probably get a place to stay whenever you reach Chopta. You will get rooms from Rs 800 and can go as high as Rs 7000.

Q. Self-camping at Chopta

If you are bringing your own camping gears, then you can pitch your tents and stop for the night. We recommend you to pitch your tent nearby some Dhaba or existing campsite. Another good place to camp is on the meadows on the way to Tungnath. You might have to pay some money to the Dhaba owner to pitch your tent there.

Q. Where to stay at Tungnath?

You can stay at the temple guest house. Otherwise, the dhabas and eateries near the temple also provide basic accommodation. They are actually beds in a dormitory where you can stay for the night.

Q. How to reach Sari village?

You have to reach Sari village from Ukhimath. You will have to reach Ukhimath from Haridwar r Rishikesh by bus, shared jeeps or cabs. From Ukhimath, you have to book a car to Sari.

campsite at deoriatal

Q. Where to stay at Sari and Deoriatal?

There are a number of homestays at Sari now. When we had visited, there was only a couple of homestays, but we saw many others were being built.

There are campsites at Deoriatal for accommodation. If you do not want to stay at camps, then stay at a homestay in Sari village and do Deoriatal trekking the next day.

Q. Are there any other treks in the region?

You can do the Kartik Swami trek from Kanakchauri, 40 km from Rudraprayag.

Madmaheswar trek, another PanchKedar can also be done from Ukhimath.

Q. Are there ATMs at Chopta? Do I need to carry cash?

There are no ATMs at Chopta or Ukhimath even. The nearest ATM is perhaps at Kund, the place where you turn for Ukhimath. There is another ATM at Kedarnath Road and one at Chandrapuri. It is better to carry sufficient cash to these places.

Wondering what to carry for a Himalayan trek? Read about our guide on things to carry in a Himalayan trek .

Q. Where is the nearest petrol pump if I wish to drive?

The nearest petrol pump is at Kund, 7-8km before Ukhimath. It is better to get your tanks filled at Rudraprayag itself.

Q. Is electricity available at Chopta and Deoriatal?

No electricity is available at Chopta, Tungnath and Deoriatal. The guest houses and homestays have installed a solar panel and you can charge your mobile and camera batteries. But it is best to carry a power bank.

Q. What is the best season to see rhododendrons?

The spring usually between March and April is the best time to see rhododendrons. Nature, however, has her own rule, and no one can really predict that you will get the best bloom at the time.

sunrise over mountain ranges at Chandrashila trek

We hope that the above Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila itinerary will help you to plan a trip to these places. TungnathDeoriatalChandrashila is a fairly easy trek suited for beginners as well. Please let us know your thoughts about the same. If you have any questions, comment below or write to us. Please share this with your family, friends and anyone who wants to do a trip to Tungnath, Deoriatal and Chandrashila. Pin this for a later read!

Deoriatal trek guide

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Agni Amrita

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19 comments.

Chopta, tungnath, also known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand,” is a breathtakingly beautiful hill station located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan range, Chopta is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Hey , you have beautifully explained everything. I visited chopta around 6 times but weather never allowed me to track to chandrashila. Please point out difficulties in tungnath to chandrashila tract, specially in dark ( at around 4 am) and what precaution we must take.

Hello Dr Neeraj! Thank you for stopping by our blog. The trail from Tunganath to Chandrashila is quite steep. The trail is gravelly with loose stones. So you have to be quite careful while trekking up before sunrise.

Hi both, is the trek from chopta to tunganath temple feasible for elderly man who is 78 years old? My father plans to visit

Hello Chaitra! If your father is fit, then he can definitely trek upto Tunganath Temple. The trail to Chandrashila i stricky and i would not recommend that for him. If not, ponies are available.

You have mentioned Aizawl is the capital of Uttarakhand. It is capital of Mizoram not of Uttarakhand.

Thank you for pointing it our. Have corrected it now!

thanks for a super write up. please keep it up.

I just have one question. What about toilets? are they there in Deorital?

Thank you Sunder. Yes, there are toilet tents at Deoriatal.

can i do deoriatal chadrashila trek on my own with low budget . And if possible then please share the route and accommodations.

Yes, you can. For the route and other information, please read the blog.

if i want to witness sunrise at chandrashila, at what time in night should i start trekking from chopta? i am a beginner in trekking experience.

Hi Swatilekha! The trail from Tunganath to Chandrashila Peak is a bit steep. We had started at around 4.30 AM from Tunganath and reached the peak just before sunrise. So, you can probably start at around that time. It will take you about an hour to reach the peak. So ask about the time of sunrise and plan accordingly!

The post is really helpful and cleared so many doubts…very good post and work done by your team…added to this,I would like to know 1 thing can you suggest me any contact number for any guide or any local from there??and is it possible to stay at tunganath in February as we are planning for the same in feb 2020…

Thanks for sharing this amazing post.

Brilliant article. Have been planning a trip to Chandrashila for a long time, and the information you have provided shall be of immense help.

Thank you so much Raj! We are glad that the article helped you.

Thanks for a very informative and DIY guide

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Tungnath Trek – A Complete Guide

tungnath trek view

Table of Contents

Where is Tungnath?

Tungnath (3,680 metres, approximately) is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is the believed to be the Highest Shiva Temple in the world, and the Third Kedar to be visited, in case you are staying true to the sequence of the Panch Kedar circuit. The other four being Kedarnath , Madhmaheshwar , Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar .

tungnath trek view

What is the motorable route?

Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Ukimath – Chopta

The trek to Tungnath starts from Chopta .

This more than sorts it out in case you are driving your own vehicle or a self-drive vehicle.

And the road is more or less well-maintained except for a few patches that fall under the landslide zone.

tungnath trek view

 In case I want to opt for public transport?

  • Take a bus or shared taxi (Max) from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Rudraprayag
  • Take a bus or shared taxi (Max) from Rudraprayag to Ukimath
  • Take a bus or shared taxi (Max) from Ukimath to Chopta

Buses, both local and of Uttarakhand State Transport, and shared taxis start plying from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Rudraprayag and further as early as 4 am.

That being said, you should know that all the local buses take their own sweet time and multiple halts. If you opt for the Uttarakhand State Transport bus, it will drop you at Rudraprayag. After this, there is no other choice but to board a local bus or a shared taxi.

It should cost one person INR 700-800 , Haridwar to Haridwar.

tungnath trek view

How long is the trek? How is the trek route like? Do I need a guide?

Chopta to Tungnath – 4 km

Tungnath to Chandrashila – 1.5 km

From Chopta to Tungnath, it is gradual yet easy ascent. The path is paved and straight forward.

After Tungnath, the paved path ends and gives way to a broken trail. It is slightly steeper and a little more challenging.

If you start early, you can easily return to Chopta by the evening.

You don’t need a guide unless you are trekking in the harsh winter when the snow nearly covers the entire path, making it riskier to make way on your own.

tungnath trek view

Where to stay and how much will it cost?

There are quite a few roadside makeshift dhaba-styled structures that offer basic rooms, quilts, and simple but good food. Some of them are located a few kilometres before the temple gates, and some right alongside the temple gates in Chopta. There some lodges around the temple premises as well.  Their rates are, as of October 2017:

Chopta and Tungnath – INR 400 for 2 people

If budget is not a constraint, you can also go for luxury, semi-luxury camps, and a few small guest houses and resorts .

tungnath trek view

Get the Best View of the Himalaya from Chandrashila

Nowhere else on any trek do you get to see most of the prominent peaks of the Indian Himalaya, all at once: left, right and centre, and up, close and personal. And this is just while trekking from Chopta to Tungnath. Once you set foot on the summit of Chandrashila, a whole new world of the Himalaya opens up on the north-eastern skyline.

This is the gist of it. If you have any further queries, feel free to leave a comment below. I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. Stay safe, travel responsibly!

tungnath trek view

Photographer by day. Travel Writer by night. And a Copywriter in between.

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Nice article.thanks for sharing the post. really chopta is awesome destination for travelling.

Thank you for reading. 🙂

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What might be the rate now to stay around tungnath, just basic rooms (for a group of 14).

200-400 person.

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I really appreciate with you thnaks for sharin g information really love it

Glad you liked it.

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Do you have any contact number for the guest house maintained by the temple committee at Tungnath Mandir.. how can I book it.. pl reply.. 🙏

I don’t have a contact number. But you can find a room near the temple upon arrival. Or pitch a tent.

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Such an Insightful post 🙂 Keep growing !!

Thanks a lot. ✌

' src=

Very nice and clear

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Tusk Travel Blog

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Tungnath Temple: How to Reach, Best Time, and Trekking Tips

Tusk Travel Team

  • Updated on February 4, 2024
  • Uttarakhand

Chandrashila-Tunganath Trek Uttarakhand

One of the easiest treks of the Himalayan region is the Chopta Tungnath trek. The peaks of Nanda Devi Kedarnath and Neel Kanth are clear during this trek and make for a majestic site. The trek features a huge area that starts from Haridwar and ends at Chandra Sheila, with other areas falling on the way. The Tungnath Mahadev temple is one of the highest Shiva temples globally. The temple is nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand , which is just about Choptavalley. Tungnath is one of the most special places in ancient Hindu mythology and is covered with the famous Kedarnath yatra.

Furthermore, it is known for the gentle trek and, of course, the amazing views. In the past few years, it has emerged as a hub for several trekkers coming from different parts of the world.

In This Article:

Location of Tungnath Temple

The Tungnath Mahadev temple is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is located at an elevation of 3470 meters above sea level. It is one of the highest among the Panch Kedar.

The valley forms part of the Kedarnath wildlife century , and the temple has gained a lot of prominence in the past few years due to the famous Chopta Chandrashila trek . It is also one of the stoppages in the Chopta Chandra Sheila trek.

Tungnath Temple: Key Information

  • Location : 3.5 km from Chopta, Uttarakhand
  • Altitude : Approximately 3,600 meters
  • Accessibility : Trek required; guide recommended in winter

Visiting Seasons

  • Best Time to Visit : April to June; August
  • Winter Months : Access challenging due to heavy snowfall
  • Opening Date for 2024 : May 14
  • Closing Date for 2024 : To be announced

Journey to Tungnath

The trek experience.

  • Starts from Chopta, winding through lush meadows and dense forests
  • Offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks
  • Duration: Typically 2-3 hours trekking time
  • Difficulty: Moderate, with a challenging aspect in snowy conditions

Historical and Spiritual Context

  • Ancient Heritage : A thousand years old, discovered by Adi Shankaracharya
  • Deities : Dedicated to Lord Shiva, with idols of Goddess Parvati and other deities
  • Winter Ritual : The deity’s idol is moved to Mukunath during winter, marking a picturesque trek

Preparing for Your Visit

  • Check Latest Updates : Always confirm the current year’s opening and closing dates before planning your trip
  • Prepare for the Trek : Wear appropriate trekking gear and carry water and snacks
  • Weather Considerations : Pack layers for cold conditions, especially outside of the peak summer months

Why Visit Tungnath?

  • Spiritual Significance : One of the highest Shiva temples offers a unique spiritual experience
  • Natural Beauty : The trek routes are known for their scenic beauty, enveloping trekkers in the tranquility of nature
  • Cultural Experience : Witnessing the ancient rituals and understanding the temple’s history enriches the journey

How can you reach Tungnath Mahadev Temple?

Visiting the sacred Tungnath Mahadev Temple, located in the serene Himalayas, is a journey of both spirituality and adventure. While Chopta serves as the base camp for this trek, understanding the route to Chopta itself is crucial for planning your pilgrimage or trek to Tungnath. Here’s a simplified guide on how to reach Chopta, ensuring a smooth start to your journey towards one of the highest Shiva temples in the world.

Reaching Chopta: Your Starting Point

Chopta reaching by road.

  • Route from Delhi : Take the Delhi – Meerut – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Srinagar Garhwal – Rudraprayag Kund – Chopta route.
  • Public Transport : Buses to Rishikesh are available from Delhi’s Kashmiri Gate ISBT. From Rishikesh, catch an early morning bus to Ukhimath, and then a taxi to Chopta.
  • Shared Taxis : Alternatively, from Rishikesh, take a shared taxi to Rudraprayag or Srinagar, and then another taxi to Ukhimath, followed by one to Chopta.
  • Travel Tip : Start early to reach Chopta within daylight hours.
  • Nearest Airport : Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun Airport) is the closest, with connectivity to major cities. From there, hire a taxi to Rishikesh and proceed towards Chopta by road.
  • Nearest Railway Station : Rishikesh station is the closest, but with limited train connectivity. An alternative is traveling to Haridwar by train, then taking a bus to Ukhimath, and finally reaching Chopta by taxi.
  • Upcoming Connectivity : The Rishikesh – Karnaprayag rail project, expected to be completed by 2025, will make the journey to Chopta more accessible, with Rudraprayag station being the closest to Chopta and Kedarnath.
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  • 6 Days Kedarnath Itinerary From Delhi

Trekking to Tungnath from Chopta

Chopta to Tungnath Temple Trek

Once you reach Chopta, you can start trekking toward Tungnath. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is all about a gradual climb, and it will serve you amazing views of the Himalayas. The difficulty level is easy, and it is also recommended for first-time trekkers.

After a climb of around 1.5 kilometers from the base, you can get a view of the long and stretched grass fields. It is generally the first step for all the trekkers, and you can find people sitting on the grass field and also enjoying themselves. There are some food joints interestingly on the left and right sides of the trail where you can binge on Maggie and parathas.

It would be best if you filled your water bottles here. The point is also famous among visitors as some of the scenes of the movie Kedarnath were also shot here. The entire trek is completely well-maintained, and there are some benches on both sides. It will take at least three hours for you to complete the trek if you want to reach the temple from Chopta.

Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

Chopta Trek, Uttarakhand

Once you exit Tunganath after offering prayers, you can find a route towards the left that will help you visit Chandrashila. The length of the Tonga Nath Chandrshila trek is around 1.5 kilometers. But it is completely steep as compared to the trek of Tunganath. The last 100 meters are very steep that would lead you to the summit.

Best Time to Visit Tunganath Temple

For pilgrims.

  • Open Season : The temple welcomes visitors from mid-April to the end of October, coinciding with the warmer months and offering a conducive environment for darshan.
  • Temple Schedule : The opening and closing dates are determined by the Badri Kedar Temple Committee, typically closing in late October or November when the deity is ceremonially moved to Makkumath Temple for the winter.

For Trekkers

  • Year-Round Trekking : The trek to Tungnath is accessible most of the year, except during extreme weather conditions.
  • Avoiding Monsoons : June to July sees heavy rainfall, making trekking conditions difficult and the Chandrashila summit challenging to access.

Seasonal Considerations

Winters at tungnath.

  • Snow-Covered Paths : Winter brings heavy snowfall, blanketing the trek in snow and offering breathtaking Himalayan views. Trekking is possible but may require a guide for safety.
  • Preparation : Check local conditions before planning your trip. Carrying identity documentation is advised.

Summers and Spring

  • Peak Season : Summer sees an influx of visitors, especially with its proximity to Kedarnath. Spring brings the valley to life with vibrant flora.
  • Weather : The trek is easiest during these months, free from snow but not offering snowfall experiences.

Post-Monsoon

  • Ideal Trekking Conditions : Post-monsoon, the valley rejuvenates with lush greenery, offering pleasant temperatures for trekking.
  • Packing Tips : Even in mild weather, carrying layers like jackets and sweaters is recommended for the evenings.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Check Latest Updates : Before embarking on your journey, verify the current year’s opening dates and weather conditions.
  • Respect Nature : The trek to Tungnath is as spiritual as it is scenic. Maintain cleanliness and respect the natural surroundings.
  • Stay Prepared : Regardless of the season, being prepared with the right gear, sufficient water, and snacks is crucial for a comfortable trek.

Places you can visit near Tungnath

Chandrashila peak.

Chandrashila Peak Uttarakhand

This peak is located at a height of 3680 kilometers, and it is the summit of Tungnath temple. You can get a complete 360-degree view from Chandrashila. There are different mountain peaks available here, including mount Kedar Gangotri Sathappan and Chakuamba.

On either side, you can get a panoramic view of Harthi and Gora Parbat. It is one of the few places in India where you can see multiple peaks at the same time from a close distance. You should trek to this place early morning and enjoy the beautiful sunrise from Chandrashila.

  • Why Visit : Just above Tungnath, Chandrashila Summit offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Trisul, and Chaukhamba.
  • Best for : Trekking enthusiasts and photographers looking for majestic sunrise and sunset views.

Deoriatal Uttarakhand

It is nestled at a high-altitude mountain lake near Chopta, and the lake is surrounded by dense and lush green forests. The best part about the places is that you can get to see a reflection of the Himalayas.

Furthermore, you can take a trek to Deoriatal lake that starts from two different places. The first and more common starts from a village known as sari and which is a distance of 20 kilometers from Chopta.

  • Location : Situated at an altitude of 2,438 meters, Deoria Tal is a crystal-clear lake approximately 2-3 hours’ drive from Chopta.
  • Attractions : Reflecting the Chaukhamba Peak in its waters, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers camping sites for a serene getaway.
  • The Gateway : Often referred to as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, Chopta is the base camp for the trek to Tungnath and offers lush meadows and a starting point for the Chandrashila trek.
  • Activities : Ideal for bird watching, trekking, and camping under the star-lit sky.
  • Spiritual Site : Ukhimath serves as the winter home for the deity of Kedarnath and Tungnath during the colder months when the temples are closed.
  • Explore : It’s a serene place for those looking to explore the religious aspects and enjoy the tranquility of the region.

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Flora and Fauna : Home to a wide variety of wildlife including Himalayan monal, snow leopards, and musk deer.
  • Adventure : Offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and nature walks.

Madhyamaheshwar Temple

  • Pilgrimage Site : Another temple in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing the architectural beauty of ancient Indian temples.
  • Journey : The trek to Madhyamaheshwar is noted for its scenic beauty and spiritual ambiance.

Visiting Tungnath opens up a world of natural beauty and spiritual exploration. The nearby places offer a mix of adventurous treks, serene landscapes, and sacred sites, making your journey a holistic experience of the Himalayan charm and the rich cultural heritage of Uttarakhand.

This is what you need to know about trekking to Tungnath and the things you can do around it.

Find out more about Uttarakhand:

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  • Popular Shopping Places in Uttarakhand
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  • Top 10 Festivals Celebrated in Uttarakhand
  • Top Destinations in Uttarakhand to Experience Snowfall

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

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Vargis Khan

Tungnath Chandrashila Trek – A COMPLETE Travel Guide

In the last article, I provided a comprehensive travel guide on traveling to Chopta ; covering almost all the details that you needed to know before you go. Continuing in the same series, in this particular post, I will write in detail about the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek which is probably the biggest tourist attraction in Chopta.

In my opinion, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that this trek, combined with some camping experience, is what really puts Chopta on the tourist map. The majority of the people visiting here are either looking to trek up to Tungnath, Chandrashila, or Deoria Tal and then spend a night at a camp before heading home. Without the trek, even Chopta would be just another hill station like several others in Uttarakhand.

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Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

For a brief overview, the Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila trek is a 5.5 kilometers long trail that starts from Chopta and ends at the top of Chandrashila peak. The distance between Chopta to Tungnath is about 4 kilometers and 1.5 kilometers between Tungnath to Chandrashila.

  • Maximum Altitude: 13,123 feet
  • Total Trekking Distance: 11 km
  • Grade: Easy to Moderate
  • Ideal duration: 4 days; can also be covered in 5 & 6 days span

The trek is considered to be moderate in terms of difficulty and is among the most popular ones in all of Uttarakhand. It remains accessible throughout the year except for the months of January and February when the winter season buries the entire region under several feet of snow.

Also Read: Chopta – A Comprehensive Travel Guide & Itinerary

So what is it that makes this trek so special? The answer is that it is perfect for even an absolute beginner. It is neither too long nor too short. It is not too challenging to dishearten you, nor is it too easy to disinterest you. Combined with a night stay at a campsite, trekking to Tungnath really makes the trip to Chopta a wholesome experience.

You get to drive through beautiful valleys full of breath-taking vistas; walk to either the Tungnath temple or Chandrashila peak and get a taste of adventure, and then sit down with friends or family around a bonfire in the evening before crawling inside a tiny yet comfortable tent. What more to ask for really?

Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

About Chopta

Chopta is a small region of meadows and evergreen forest which is popular as the base for trekking to Tungnath and Chandrashila. It is located at an altitude of 2,680 meters (8,790 ft) and is surrounded by forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron. It is, in fact, popular as a tourist destination itself.

This entire region is part of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and Chopta is known to be rich in flora and fauna; including rare Himalayan species of monal bird, musk deer, and Pika Mouse.

About Tungnath Temple

Tungnath is one of the five ‘Panch Kedar’ temples dedicated to Lord Shiva; the other four being Madhyamaheshwar, Rudranath, Kalpeshwar with Kedarnath. At an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 ft), it is the highest of all the five temples but is also the easiest one to reach.

It is said that the temple is over 5,000 years old and third in the pecking order of the Panch Kedars; due to which it is also known as ‘ Tritiya Kedar ‘. There is a whole legend associated with these temples that I have further explained in the article.

About Chandrashila

Chandrashila is the summit of the Tungnath and is located 1.5 kilometers further up from the temple at a height of over 4,000 meters (13,120 ft). The literal meaning of the name is “Moon Rock” and there are several legends associated with it. According to one such legend, this is the place where Lord Rama meditated after defeating the demon-king Ravana.

Another legend, however, says that it was Ravana himself who did penance to Lord Shiva here. There is in fact also a peak here called “Ravanshila” where the demon king is said to have meditated. A third legend states that it was the moon god “Chandra” who spent time here in penance at the peak due to which it is known as Chandrashila.

The motorable road to Chopta, which further goes to Gopeshwar, will actually bring you right to the starting point of the trek. If you stayed at Dugabitta or Baniyakund, you can bring your vehicle to the start of the trail. There are also a few campsites near the starting point if you wanted to stay somewhere close.

The total distance from Chopta to Chandrashila and back will be about 11 kilometers in total and can eat up your entire day. Hence, an early start from Chopta is advised.

Chopta to Tungnath Trek

The entire trek from Chopta to Tungnath for a total of 4 kilometers is a cemented path. The trekking path to Chopta begins right on the road and is surrounded by many dhabas and guest houses.

tungnath trek view

There are a total of 11 scissor bends that you will walk on while climbing up the ascent. The walk is pleasant enough with magnificent views all around but can feel steep to a lot of people. You have no need to rush through. It takes about 2 hours for an average person to reach Tungnath and then another one hour to reach Chandrashila.

The climb down back to Chopta can easily be done in half of this time. So if you started early in the morning, you will have sufficient time to plenty of breaks and walk at a pace that suits you the best.

In my opinion, the entire trek from Chopta to Tungnath and to Chandrashila is fairly easy. You do not really need a guide for this trek unless you were visiting in peak winter. You will come across a meadow about an hour into the trek.

There are a few eating joints / dhabas here where you can take a break and eat. The trail will continue to zigzag and gain altitude. There are several points in between where you can sit and relax while enjoying the views around you.

You will reach Tungnath temple after climbing the 11 scissor bends. The temple remains closed in the winter season and you should find snow up here well into April. The peaks of Chandrashila and Ravanshila too will be visible from this point.

Around ten minutes before you reach Tungnath, there is a small detour that will take you towards Ravanshila if you wish to explore that too. You can get some amazing panoramic valley views from Ravanshila. If you are unsure about the location it is best to ask the locals at the temple.

Also Read: Deoria Tal – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary

Tungnath to Chandrashila Trek

Chandrashila peak is a trek of another 1.5 kilometers from the temple. This final climb will see you gaining altitude by almost 1,000 ft and is a bit steep. The path leading to the summit is from behind the temple complex. It is clearly marked and hard to miss. You will also notice the dormitories near the temple which remain open during summer. A lot of people stay at Tungnath for the night and then trek to Chandrashila in the morning to catch the sunrise view.

You will once again climb up a series of several scissor bends and arrive at top of the peak. The pace of the wind too will pick up here. From the top, you get a stunning 360-degree view of the mountains around like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedar dome. There is another temple at top of the summit.

The Mythology of Tungnath Temple

As per the legend, after the battle of ‘Mahabharata’, Pandavas were advised by Rishi Veda Vyas to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for killing their relatives in the battle. They were told by the Rishi that it was a sin that could only be pardoned by Lord Shiva himself. The Pandavas took the advice and went in search of Shiva who on the other hand was convinced of their sin. Thus, the Lord decided not to appear in front of the Pandavas and hid underground after taking the shape of a bull (Nandi).

Later, it is said that Shiva’s body rematerialized at five different locations, still in the form of a bull. These five locations are what are now known as ‘Panch Kedar’ Temples; built by the Pandavas themselves in order to seek Lord Shiva’s forgiveness and blessings.

Each of the temples is identified with a different part of Shiva’s body. Tungnath is identified as the place where ‘baahu’ (hands) were seen: hump was seen at Kedarnath; head appeared at Rudranath; his navel and stomach surfaced at Madhyamaheshwar and his jata (hair or locks) at Kalpeshwar.

Chopta is at an altitude of 2,680 meters (8793 ft). Elevation of Tungnath Temple is 3,680 meters (12,073 ft) and Chandrashila is at 4,000 meters (13,120 ft)

Best time for Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

This trek can be completed anytime between April to November but the best time is the months of April, May, and June. If you could not make it in either of these months then September and October are equally good. April will give you a chance to find some snow which will add a charm to the overall experience. May and June will have you traveling in very pleasant weather. September will present you with lush green vistas all around and October would have turned the valleys golden with the arrival of Autumn.

Also Read: Delhi to Deoria Tal – A Memorable Trip

Tungnath Chandrashila Trek in January and February

You can complete the trek in other months too but there will be a few disadvantages. It starts to snow here sometime in December and continues till March. During this time, completing this trek for an amateur trekker becomes a task impossible. There could be around 4 to 7 feet of snow which means that you will need to carry some serious trekking equipment like crampons/micro-spikes and an ice axe.

Tungnath Chandrashila Trek in March

If snow is on your mind and I mean a few feet of it then March will be a good time to go. But you must be well prepared for walking in knee-deep snow and should have a proper guide with you. The road to Chopta remains closed in March and you will only be able to reach Dugalbitta by your vehicle. So your trek will actually start from Dugalbitta itself and will add about another 10 to 12 kilometers to the day’s walk.

Tungnath Chandrashila Trek in April

Snow starts to melt towards late March and the Spring season starts in April. This is a great time if you want to find a little snow on the trek, especially around Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila top.

There will also be no option of staying at Tungnath in either Jan, Feb, March, or early April.

Tungnath Chandrashila Trek in May and June

These two months are the best time to complete the trek. Weather will be pleasant, snow will be gone, roads will be all open and accommodation will become available at both Chopta and Tungnath. Days will be clear and sunny and you will get stunning views of the peaks around.

Tungnath Chandrashila Trek in July and August

This is not a good time to be walking around here. The region gets heavy rainfall each year and it can rain anytime anywhere. Landslides become common and roads too can get closed. You do not want to get caught up on the trail in heavy rain and walk back completely drenched and cold. If the weather turned extreme, you may not even be able to get out of the hotel and start on the trek.

Also Read: Devprayag to Chopta – The Valleys of White

Tungnath Chandrashila in September and October

Views will be all green and mesmerizing in the month of September. Not just Chopta or the trek but the entire drive is a feast for eyes at this time. Monsoon would be gone but would have left plenty of greenery behind. In October, Autumn will arrive and everything that was green would turn Orange. This is another great time for visiting Chopta and Tungnath.

Tungnath Chandrashila in November and December

You can do this trek in November as well but this is not a good time in my opinion because vistas get very dull and dry. The accommodation at Tungnath too becomes unavailable in November. By Mid December, it can snow here anytime. The trek, temple and Chandrashila peak actually get snowfall weeks before Chopta. If you are planning a winter trek then best to wait for a couple of months more and visit in March. The months of November and December really have nothing to offer except for dry, cold and dull weather.

Now based on the information above,

  • Best time for Tungnath Trek: April, May, June, September, and October
  • Best time for Chandrashila Trek: May, June, September, and October

The reason why I removed April for Chandrashila because if there was a lot of snow, then you may not be able to reach all the way to the top.

How to reach Tungnath / Chandrashila

Chopta is where you will need to get in order to visit Tungnath and Chandrashila. The motorable road will, in fact, bring you right to the starting point of the trek. I have covered this topic in detail in the previous part of this post, How to plan a trip to Chopta . Please take a look at this article for very detailed information on how you can arrive at Chopta by either car, motorcycle, taxi or public transport.

Acute Mountain Sickness

Another thing to consider here would be Acute Mountain sickness. At Chandrashila, you will be standing at an elevation of slightly over 4000 meters. You must consider the fact that you may start to suffer from altitude sickness either at the peak or on the way. If it happens then you should immediately stop and climb down to a lower altitude.

Symptoms of altitude would be a little same as those of high fever. If you start to feel dizzy, found it difficult to breathe, fatigue, headaches, chest pain or feverish then do no continue on the trek. Return to Chopta immediately and you will feel better.

Also Read: Sari Village to Deoria Tal – An Awesome Trek

Accommodation Choices

Accommodation is available at Chopta, Dugalbitta, Baniyakund, Gopeshwar, and even at Tungnath. Depending on your itinerary, you can choose to stay at either of these places. Booking in advance is not really required. You can arrive in Chopta, find a place per your liking, and negotiate an on the spot deal.

What and Where to Eat

There are several dhabas and restaurants in Chopta and even at Tungnath temple as well. You will keep coming across tea stalls on a couple of places on the trek as well. My advice would be to carry some items to eat like biscuits or chocolates to munch on.

The important thing to remember would be that the dhabas and restaurants in Chopta charge a bit much even for the simplest of meals. They will not give you a menu listing down the prices but will just tell you verbally what is available. You will order a few basic dishes and then will get slammed with a huge bill with no choice but to pay. Before you order anything, please make sure that you check the prices of the items.

Tungnath Chandrashila Trek Itinerary

Last but not the least, let me also suggest an example of an itinerary that you can follow for this trip. For the sake of the itinerary below, I will assume Delhi as your starting point. If you were however even coming from a different place, then only the journey till Rishikesh may be different. The rest of the details will still apply.

Also Read: Deoria Tal to Rishikesh – Camping on White Sands

  • Delhi to Rudraprayag / Chopta – Day 1

Your first day of the journey will be a very long one so please ensure that you get an early start. It will easily take you about 12 to 13 hours to get to Chopta from Delhi. The drive from Delhi to Rishikesh is mostly smooth on the national highway. After Rishikesh, you will start climbing up the hills and the road will be a mix of good and bad.

Continue following the road via Devprayag, Srinagar till Rudraprayag. A few kilometers after Rudraprayag is the small town of Kund from where you will have to take the turn towards Ukhimath. Continue driving via Ukhimath, Dugalbitta, and Baniyakund to arrive at Chopta.

If you got late somewhere in between and it got dark then you can break your journey at Rudraprayag itself rather than continuing to Chopta.

Rudraprayag / Chopta to Tungnath to Chandrashila to Chopta – Day 2

You must get an early start on this day because you have a long trek ahead of you. Views too tend to be a little better in the first half of the day. In the latter half, clouds start to block the view and you will not be able to see all the mighty peaks around. Target to start the trek latest by 8 AM.

This should get you to the top of the peak by noon and give you ample time to return at an easy pace. You must carry adequate water and keep yourself hydrated. Getting back to Chopta via the same route will take you not more than 2 hours.

In our case, we got delayed in Delhi and took a very late start. Heavy traffic further delayed our progress and we reached Rudraprayag at about 10 PM where we stayed for the night. The next day, we started from Rudraprayag at 5 AM and reached Chopta at around 8.30 AM and started on the trek.

Chopta to Deoria Tal – Day 3

Reaching Deoria Tal is not a very long journey so you will have time for visiting other local places as well. Take a look at Tourist Attractions in and around Chopta for a list of some other old temples that you can visit here. Indulge in sightseeing in the first half of the day and come back to your hotel. Check out and be on your way to Sari Village after having lunch.

Locals in Sari are very helpful people and you can ask anyone for directions towards Deoria Tal trek. But I am assuming here that you would already have made arrangements for your stay at the camp by the lake.

These are not a pre-arranged thing and you must call and book in advance. Talk to your campsite owner and coordinate to trek up to the lake. It will take you about 2 hours to walk up to the lake and you will arrive in time to enjoy a great sunset view.

Please note that Deoria Tal is part of a wildlife sanctuary and Bonfire is not allowed here by the law. So do not light up any fires here on your own in the night.

  • Deoria Tal to Delhi – Day 4

Make sure you set up alarms and get up in time before sunrise. You simply cannot afford to miss sunrise at Deoria Tal. It is truly a sight to die for. Have breakfast and climb down to Sari Village from here you will follow the same route back to Delhi. If you have another day then you can make this a 5 days trip and stay in Rishikesh on Day 4.

There is a road from Srinagar that goes to Lansdowne which is another popular hill station. So an alternate way for this journey would be to come back to Lansdowne on Day 4 and return to Delhi on Day 5 via Meerut.

Also Read: Himalayas in Monsoon: Top Tips for a Safe Trip

Tungnath Itinerary

Another itinerary that you can follow is as mentioned below.

  • Rudraprayag / Chopta to Tungnath – Day 2
  • Tungnath to Chandrashila to Chopta To Deoria Tal – Day 3

Delhi to Tungnath Itinerary

Or a more relaxed version of this journey can be as below.

  • Delhi to Rishikesh – Day 1
  • Rishikesh to Chopta – Day 2
  • Chopta to Tungnath to Chandrashila to Chopta – Day 3
  • Chopta to Deoria Tal – Day 4
  • Deoria Tal to Lansdowne – Day 5
  • Lansdowne to Delhi – Day 6

Below is a list of some items that you would want to bring on this trip. Not for just the day of the trek but the overall trip for 4 to 5 days.

Clothes & Items to Bring

  • Full Sleeves Windproof Jacket / Down Jacket
  • Comfortable Trek Pants. Do not wear Jeans or tight trousers.
  • Full sleeves T-Shirts with collar
  • Good Trekking Shoes with a good grip so that you can manage slippery trails.
  • Sports Socks
  • Wear light and quick dry clothes; avoid jeans and other body-hugging clothes.
  • Bring a raincoat if visiting during Monsoon or at least carry a Poncho
  • Balaclava or woolen muffler/scarf
  • Water Bottle
  • Moisturizer
  • Toilet paper
  • Some basic medicines for cold, flu, headache, body ache (like Crocin, Combiflam, Dispirin)
  • Crepe Bandage (You may need it)
  • Cold Cream / Vaseline

Also Read: Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Deoria Tal Itinerary

  • I know I said that this trek can be done by beginners as well but a basic fitness level must be required. Ask yourself, can you walk 5 kilometers? If the answer is no that you complete this trek. You must be physically fit to walk and climb long distances.
  • During winters, the entire trek is covered with snow and it won’t be wrong to term it as “a bit dangerous”. You must not attempt it on your own in January, February or March. Hire a guide who can help you navigate the way.
  • There are no ATMs, Petrol Pumps, or Mechanics in Chopta. You will have to go to either Ukhimath, Rudraprayag for these or to Gopeshwar.
  • Carry sufficient water with you before commencing the trek and keep yourself hydrated. De-hydration on a trek can make you lose energy very quickly and intensify the effects of AMS.
  • If possible, carry two pairs of gloves for the trip. One woolen and the other one a water-resistant and windproof that you can put on while trekking.
  • In case you are carrying your Camera or Mobile phone with you, make sure you carry enough supply of plastic waterproof bags.
  • Never attempt to walk too fast as this can lead to fatigue. Remember, it is not a race. Walk at a pace that is convenient for you.
  • Eat lunch either near Tungnath temple or at the dhabas on the trail and start the walk back to Chopta.
  • Views of the peaks are generally clear till noon and after that, the snowy mountains may be obscured by clouds. Hence it is recommended to reach Chandrashila as early as possible for a clear view of the peaks of both the Kumaon and Garhwal ranges.

That mostly is all that you need to know about trekking to Tungnath and Chandrashila. Please note that all other information like how to get to Chopta, where to stay, where to eat, availability of basic facilities, route, road conditions, mobile network, etc have already been covered in the previous part of this article, How to Plan a Trip to Chopta that I will urge you to need.

I hope the information above on the Tungnath Chandrashila trek was of help. If you have any questions; or need any further details; please feel free to ask in the comments section below, or at our Community Forum , and I will be glad to answer.

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Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

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hi vargiskhan, Tungnath is a hidden gem in the Himalayas! The breathtaking views, serene atmosphere, and the ancient temple make it a must-visit for any nature and history enthusiast. Highly recommended!

Hi Rachana – I completely agree with your views

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dear Vargis first of all i want to thank you for your blog on spiti valley which help me to complete that ttrip so easily through public transport ! now iam planning for tunganath ! can i fix my tent on tunganath ? in the early april ? also is there public transport available on that time to chopta from haridwar or rishikesh ?

Hi Sudheeer – Yes you can pitch your ten and yes, there will be a daily bus available for Chopta from Haridwar, at least until Ukhimath.

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How to reach thunganath from badrinath?is Any direct bus available?

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Is there any public transport available to reach Chopra from rudrapryaga in month of October

You can easily get shared cabs.

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Thanks cor the detailed article. I’m planning to do this trek in early December and wanted to ask you if any permits are required for this trip. My partner is a Dutch national, will she require any special permits ?

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Unleash your spiritual power....

Tungnath & deoriatal trek.

Janurary to December

“Not all those who wander are lost.”

Via sari (4000 m), ₹6500+ 5% gst, haridwar to haridwar.

+ Rs. 2500 Transport from Haridwar

+ Rs. 1000 Backpack Offloading

Uttarakhand - 4 Days - 20 km

Up to 15% off in may-jun batches for a limited period ✨, batches: jan to december.

The Tungnath and Deoriatal Trek is a popular trekking route in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It offers a combination of natural beauty, panoramic views, and cultural significance. Here is a brief overview of the trek:

Trek Duration: The trek usually takes around 4-5 days to complete.

Trek Difficulty: The Tungnath and Deoriatal Trek is considered a moderate trek suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. However, it is important to be physically fit and have basic trekking experience.

Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple is an ancient and highly revered Hindu temple located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand , India. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), making it the highest Shiva temple in the world. Tungnath is one of the Panch Kedar temples, which are five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.

The temple holds great religious and mythological significance. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed to be the place where the arms of Lord Shiva emerged during the Pandava brothers' journey to seek forgiveness after the Kurukshetra war. The temple is also considered a part of the famous Kedarnath temple pilgrimage.

The trek to Tungnath Temple starts from Chopta, which is often called the "Mini Switzerland of India" due to its breathtaking beauty and scenic surroundings. The trek is relatively moderate in difficulty and takes around 3-4 hours to reach the temple from Chopta.

The path to Tungnath Temple is adorned with lush green meadows, rhododendron forests, and panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. Along with the main temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, there are also smaller shrines dedicated to deities like Ma Parvati, Vyas Gufa (cave), and Adi Shankaracharya.

Visitors to Tungnath Temple not only seek blessings but also admire the serene and spiritual atmosphere. The temple offers magnificent views of the snow-clad peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.

Tungnath Temple remains open during the summer months, usually from May to November, as heavy snowfall during the winter season makes it inaccessible. The temple attracts devotees, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts who wish to experience the divine presence and natural beauty of the Himalayas.

It is advisable to check weather conditions and plan the visit accordingly. Trekking with a local guide, carrying essential supplies, and respecting the temple's religious significance are important aspects of visiting Tungnath Temple.

Chandrashila Peak

Chandrashila Peak is a prominent summit located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an elevation of approximately 4,130 meters (13,550 feet), it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

The name "Chandrashila" translates to "Moon Rock" in Hindi, and it is believed to be the place where Lord Rama meditated after defeating the demon king Ravana in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. The peak holds immen se spiritual significance and is visited by devotees, trekkers, and nature lovers alike.

The most common way to reach Chandrashila Peak is by undertaking the Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek. Starting from Chopta, the trek takes you through picturesque meadows, dense forests, and rocky terrain. After visiting the Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, you continue trekking to reach Chandrashila Peak.

The trek from Tungnath to Chandrashila is relatively short but steep, requiring a moderate level of fitness. Upon reaching the summit, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, Bandarpunch, and others. The sunrise and sunset views from Chandrashila are particularly enchanting, casting a golden glow on the surrounding mountains.

Apart from its spiritual and scenic appeal, Chandrashila also offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The region is known for its diverse avian species, including the Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, and more. During the winter months, the area receives heavy snowfall, transforming it into a winter wonderland and attracting snow enthusiasts.

It is important to note that the trek to Chandrashila Peak is best undertaken during the summer and autumn months (May to November) when the weather is favorable and the trekking trails are accessible. It is advisable to be well-prepared with proper trekking gear, including sturdy footwear, warm clothing, and sufficient water and snacks.

Chandrashila Peak is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty, spiritual significance, and adventure. Whether you are seeking solace in nature, pursuing a spiritual journey, or indulging in outdoor activities, the summit offers a memorable experience amidst the grandeur of the Himalayas.

Deoria Tal 

Deoria Tal, also known as Devariya Tal, is a serene and picturesque lake located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,438 meters (7,999 feet), it is surrounded by dense forests and offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

The name "Deoria Tal" translates to "Lake of the Gods" in Hindi. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed to be the place where the Yaksha (nature spirit) questioned the Pandavas during their exile in the Mahabharata epic.

Deoria Tal is a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and trekkers. The trek to Deoria Tal usually starts from the village of Sari, which is accessible by road from Haridwar or Rishikesh. The trek is relatively easy and takes approximately 1-2 hours to reach the lake.

The trail to Deoria Tal winds through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and coniferous trees. Along the way, you can spot a variety of bird species and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the surroundings. As you reach the lake, you are greeted by its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks, including Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, and Bandarpunch.

Camping by the banks of Deoria Tal is a popular activity, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the area. The calm and serene atmosphere of the lake is perfect for meditation, yoga, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

Deoria Tal is accessible throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the summer and autumn months (April to November) when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. During winter, the lake is often covered in snow, creating a surreal landscape.

It is advisable to carry appropriate trekking gear, warm clothing, and camping equipment if you plan to stay overnight. Since there are limited accommodation options near the lake, camping is the preferred choice for experiencing the true essence of Deoria Tal.

Overall, Deoria Tal offers a peaceful retreat amidst natural beauty, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The combination of the scenic lake, surrounding forests, and magnificent views of the Himalayan peaks make it a must-visit destination in Uttarakhand.

Itinerary of Tungnath & Deoria Tal Trek

Here is a detailed itinerary for the Tungnat h and Deoria Tal Trek:

Day 1: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Sari Village (Drive) and Trek to Deoria Tal

On day 1 of the Tungnath and Deoria Tal Trek, you will start early in the morning from Haridwar or Rishikesh and embark on a scenic drive to Sari village. The drive takes approximately 7-8 hours, covering a distance of around 200 kilometers. Enjoy the picturesque views of the countryside and the Ganges River as you ascend into the Garhwal Himalayas.

Upon reaching Sari village, begin the trek to Deoria Tal, a beautiful lake situated at an altitude of around 2,438 meters (7,999 feet). The trek from Sari village to Deoria Tal takes around 1-2 hours, covering a distance of approximately 3 kilometers. The trail meanders through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and coniferous trees, offering glimpses of the surrounding peaks.

Arrive at Deoria Tal and be mesmerized by the tranquil atmosphere and the stunning reflection of the mountains in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. Set up camp by the lakeside and enjoy a peaceful evening amidst nature. Relax, take photographs, or indulge in some birdwatching around the lake. Dinner and overnight stay in tents near Deoria Tal.

Day 2: Deoria Tal to Chopta via Rohini Bugyal

On day 2 of the Tungnath and Deoria Tal Trek, you will wake up early to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over Deoria Tal. After breakfast, start your trek from Deoria Tal towards Chopta, which is approximately 1 4 kilometers away.

The initial part of the trek descends through the forest trail, offering glimpses of various bird species and lush greenery. As you descend further, you will reach the village of Baniyakund, where you can interact with the locals and get a glimpse of their lifestyle. From Baniyakund, the trail gradually ascends through a mix of forests and meadows, known as Rohini Bugyal. Rohini Bugyal is a vast expanse of meadows adorned with blooming flowers during the spring season, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Continue trekking towards Chopta, passing through serene meadows and enjoying the refreshing mountain air. Reach Chopta, a small scenic hamlet located at an altitude of approximately 2,680 meters (8,793 feet). Set up camp in Chopta and relax amidst the tranquil surroundings. Enjoy the evening views of the majestic Himalayan peaks and the peaceful atmosphere of Chopta.

Dinner and overnight stay in tents at Chopta.

Note: It is advisable to carry enough water and snacks for the trek. Stay hydrated and maintain a steady pace while trekking. Respect the environment and do not litter. Follow the instructions of your trek leader or guide for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Day 3: Chopta to Tungnath and Chandrashila Peak

on Day 3 of the Tungnath and Deoria Tal trek, you will start early in the morning after breakfast for an exciting day of trekking to Tungnath and Chandrashila Peak.  Begin the trek from Chopta towards Tungnath, which is approximately 3.5 kilometers away.  

The trail ascends gradually, passing through dense forests of rhododendron and oak trees. Reach Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, situated at an elevation of approximately 3,680 meters (12,073 feet). Take some time to explore the ancient temple and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.  

From Tungnath, continue the trek towards Chandrashila Peak, which is around 1.5 kilometers away. The trail becomes steeper as you ascend toward Chandrashila. Reach the summit of Chandrashila at an altitude of approximately 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and many others.

Spend some time at the summit, enjoying the serene surroundings and capturing memorable photographs. After taking in the magnificent views, begin the descent back to Chopta.  

Reach Chopta and relax at the campsite, savoring the accomplishment of trekking to Tungnath and Chandrashila Peak.

Dinner and overnight stay in tents at Chopta. Note: The trek to Chandrashila Peak involves a steep ascent, and the altitude may pose a challenge. It is important to stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and listen to your body. Carry necessary warm clothing, water, and snacks for the trek. Follow the instructions of your trek leader or guide for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Day 4: Chopta to Haridwar/Rishikesh

After breakfast, bid farewell to the serene surroundings of Chopta and board the vehicle waiting for you and embark on the drive back to Haridwar or Rishikesh. Enjoy the scenic journey as you descend from the mountains, passing through picturesque landscapes and quaint villages.

Reach Haridwar or Rishikesh by evening and check into your accommodation. Take a refreshing shower and relax after the trek. Spend the evening exploring the local markets, indulging in local cuisine, or simply relaxing by the banks of the Ganges River.

Overnight stay in Haridwar or Rishikesh.

Note: The drive from Chopta to Haridwar or Rishikesh takes approximately 7-8 hours. Plan your departure time accordingly to reach your destination before nightfall. Take breaks during the journey and stay hydrated. Reflect on the wonderful memories of the trek and cherish the beauty of the Himalayas.

Warm clothes

Toilet paper & wipes

Backpack (50-60l)

Water bottle

Fleece jackets and thermals

Hiking shoes

Led torch (with extra batteries)

Mosquito & insect repellent

Thermal inners

Included in the package

We promise our travellers to provide delicious, hygienic & nutritious meals during the trek  that includes morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening snacks & dinner ).

All f orest permits and camping charges .

Not included in the package

Transport to and from Sari/Chopta  – Walking The Himalayas will arrange shared taxis for trekkers. These shared taxis will pick you up from Haridwar Railway Station Airpot. Taxi from Haridwar to Chopta costs around Rs. 6000 - 8000 per taxi and Rs. 9000 - 11000 per tempo one way.

Food during transit to and from the base camp – Walking the Himalayas doesn't include meals purchased during the journey to Sari and Chopta.

Backpack offloading charges – If you wish to offload your backpack, there will be an additional charge of Rs. 2100 - 2500. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 - 10 kgs. Walking The Himalayas does not allow Suitcases/Strollers/Duffel bags during the trek, so if you are bringing these then you have to take care on your own. These charges can vary for last minute offloading in case you decide to offload your bag after reaching Sari (Rs.350 per day inclusive of taxes).

Personal expenses - Your trekking package doesn't include any kind of personal expenses. 

Cancellation

If your trek gets called off at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rains, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh etc.) we will not refund your money. Instead of money, Walking The Himalayas will issue a trek voucher for the full amount. You can easily redeem that voucher for the same amount for any of the treks available at the same price. 

In case you wish to cancel your trek please email us at [email protected]

Cancellation charges are based on the total trek fee, irrespective of the amount paid either full or partial.

The cancellation policy of Walking The Himalayas is based on the original booking time and the original start date of the trek.

If you cancel a trek before 30 days of trek start date and get a full refund after deduction of 1.99% payment processing fee.

If you cancel a trek before 15 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 20% of the total trek fee.

If you cancel a trek before 10 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 40% of the total trek fee.

If you cancel a trek before 5 days of the trek start date and get a refund after a deduction of 60% of the total trek fee.

The Trek fee is non-refundable if you cancel within 4 days before the trek start date.

Trek cancellation due to weather:

In case of an incomplete trek due to weather conditions, you can opt for the same trek again throughout your lifetime on all our fixed departures for the same trek.

This attempt only covers the trek fee and will not include any rentals or the transportation amount paid earlier.

This is non-transferable.

tungnath trek view

Varun Razora

This Place Is Just Like A Heaven On Earth Place Where U Can feel like Walking On Clouds heading To Highest Peak Chandrashila where U ll Feel Like Top Of The World. Witness Shiva's Highest Temple In the World Named Tungnath Ji. Must-Visit This Place Once In A Lifetime. U ll Feel Like More Energetic and Refreshed here with Spiritual Air And On the laps Of Our Mother Nature

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Satinder Gill

Very scenic and calm walk in the higher altitudes.

Once you reach the top, the Chandrashila Peak, you get mesmerising views of hilltops and clouds beneath you.

Must go once at least 

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Vineet Singhal

First time experiences are the most special ones, a little nervous, a little excited. That's what makes a journey memorable. For the people who say Tungnath trek is difficult neither life nor treks are difficult. You only need a good company to accomplish anything in life.

The Bum Who Travels

A Detailed Travel Guide for Chopta, Tungnath, Chandrashila Trek

While the internet is awash with travel blogs about popular trekking destinations, a careful perusal results in finding out that most of them are similar and may sometimes not have proper information. And I noticed the same for Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila trek.

After the many thankful emails and comments that I have received after the trekking guide to Kheerganga ,  I make this travel guide to Chopta, Tungnath and Chandrashila based on my recent trek in April 2017. The very nature of this beautiful and easy trek, distance and connectivity of Chopta make this an ideal weekend getaway from Delhi and can even be completed as a 3 day trip.

Updated in April 2018. 

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Chopta is a small tourist town located at 2600m and is also the last road head for the trek to Tungnath Temple & Chandrashila peak. The distances and nature of the trek make it a popular weekend holiday from Delhi and other parts of North India and hence this guide is an attempt to make it as easy as possible for prospective travellers.

How to reach Chopta?

Chopta is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand   and lies on the Ukhimath – Chamoli – Gopeshwar road. Distance of Chopta from Haridwar is 225 kms and the distance from Ukhimath to Chopta is around 29 kms . To simplify the reaching part, let me start from Delhi. Chopta is located at an altitude of approx. 2650m.

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Distance from Delhi to Haridwar  is 225 kms and has regular buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate & Anand Vihar ISBT. Time taken to cover the distance is usually 5-6 hours. There are three kinds of buses from Delhi to Haridwar; normal buses, Janrath buses (AC) and Volvo buses (AC). It is recommended to take a 10 pm or 10:30 pm bus so that you reach Haridwar bus stand at around 4 am in the morning.

Haridwar to Chopta : If you reach Haridwar at 4 or 5 in the morning, there may be quite a confusion with regards to buses for Kund at the bus stand. In the absence of a proper information channel, no one will deny about the availability of a bus, nor will anyone tell you where and how it goes from.

Based on my experience, a humble suggestion  – Do not waste time wandering here and there at the Haridwar bus stand. The earliest buses on the route to Chopta leave from GMOU bus stand (pronounced geemu), which is a 500m walk away from main Haridwar bus stand on the left side once you exit the gates. GMOU stands for Garhwal Mandal (Bus) Operators’ Association. GMOU bus stand is on the opposite side of the Railway Godown.

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Kund is the point at which the road bifurcates – A left from here goes to Guptkashi and Gaurikund (Kedarnath route) and the straight road goes to Ukhimath, from where Chopta is around 29 kms away. Hence I recommend reaching Kund in order to get to Chopta. 

There will be no direct buses for Kund or Ukhimath. So basically one needs to get into one of the below GMOU buses :

03:15 am – Joshimath (Get down at Rudraprayag) and change buses                                                                      05:00 am – Badrinath (Get down at Rudraprayag) and change buses                                                                  05:15 am – Gaurikund or Kedarnath (Get down at Kund) shared sumo                                                    07:45 am & 08:00 am – Joshimath & Badrinath (Rudraprayag) and change buses

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Route from Haridwar to Chopta

Haridwar – (24kms) Rishikesh – (70kms) Devprayag – (34kms) Srinagar – (33kms) Rudraprayag – (19kms) Agastyamuni – (10kms) Kund – (6kms) Ukhimath – (22kms) Duggalbitta – (7kms) Chopta.

Breakfast place in the bus is at a dhaba at 3 Dhara near Devprayag . Make sure to eat ample aloo paranthas, so that you can have food directly at Chopta after this. The distance from Haridwar to Kund is covered in the bus (300 Rs.) in approximately 7 hours. Once you reach Kund at around 12:30 pm, shared cabs (sumo) are available for Ukhimath (20 Rs.) and thereafter from Ukhimath to Chopta (50 Rs.) Depending on the luck with shared transport one should reach Chopta at 2 or 3 pm. Chopta is located on the Ukhimath to Gopeshwar route; Mandal village is around 24 kms from Chopta and is very scenic.

Once you are near Duggalbitta, accommodation options in the form of camps, tents and small homestays start appearing. If you are coming by public transport, the best idea is to get down right at Chopta (where there are trek stairs to Tungnath temple.) During summer season, Ukhimath to Gopeshwar buses ply on this road and it is possible to reach Chopta by bus as well. (According to locals buses run twice a day.) Shared taxis from Ukhimath to Chopta are many and run from morning till at least 5 in the evening. 

Read :  Top solo travel tips

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Planning the trek

It is most likely that one will reach Chopta by 2 to 3 pm (if the transport connection to and from Ukhimath works fine). Time taken to trek to Tungnath Temple from Chopta is usually 3 hours for an average person, and another one hour for Tungnath to Chandrashila. It can be classified as a fairly easy trek – on the difficulty level and can be ideal for a first time trekker.

Most people stay at Chopta, do a day hike to Tungnath and Chandrashila and come back the same day. It is possible to do it provided one leaves early, say by 7 am. It is best to reach Tungnath by 10, pay your respects at the temple and enjoy the scenery. Trek ahead to Chandrashila, come back by 1 pm. Eat lunch either near Tungnath temple or at the dhabas on the trail and start the walk back to Chopta. Remember that usually the time taken to go back is half of what you’d take while hiking up, so one can get back to Chopta in 2 hours from Chandrashila.

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Where to Stay in Chopta?

There are many simple guest houses and homestays to stay at Chopta, ranging from as little as 100/- per person to 500 Rupees for a four bed room with attached bathroom. While some are also named ‘hotels’, don’t expect any standard of luxury. Duggalbitta is around 5 kms before Chopta and there are also a few nicely located camping resorts on the side of the road (approx. 1500 Rs. per tent). The dhaba owners on the road also offer dormitory type services by charging approx. 100 per bed when tourists start filling in on weekends.

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One can also stay in tents near Chopta, just before the Tungnath temple starting trek point. Tents are laid out in green meadows and it can be a good idea to stay if one wants the camping experience. Depending on the season, weekend crowds and weather – it is easy to find accommodation in Chopta and nearby even if you haven’t booked in advance.

In the worst case scenario of accommodation here being full at Chopta, one can move 3 kms ahead on the Gopeshwar route for more staying options. There are 4-5 guest houses that have come up in an area called Bhulkan (It is on the road to Mandal.) I highly recommend this region to stay in peace away from the crowds. Try to reach as early as possible to make sure about finding a place to stay. If you have your own tent, you can pitch it in a safe place after asking the locals and paying them a fee.

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Best Timing for Views  : With regards to the best views on the Tungnath – Chandrashila trek, it is possible that after reaching Chopta by around 3 in the afternoon, you start trekking towards Tungnath. Within 45 minutes, the path reaches a lush green meadow flanked by a ring of snowy peaks with 3-4 stone dhabas. One can expect bare and basic accommodation at these dhabas for around 100-150 Rs. per person.

Scenario No. 2 : The extremely fit trekkers can reach Tungnath, where there are simple staying options in the form of rustic guest houses. The sunrise views from Chandrashila Top are known to be legendary. Staying at Tungnath can enable a person to reach Chandrashila Top before sunrise; otherwise it can become a tricky situation to start the trek from Chopta and expect to reach Chandrashila for sunrise!

Enroute : There are staying options in Ukhimath, Kund, Srinagar & Rudraprayag as well. I stayed in a cheap but nice hotel in Ukhimath that charged 500 Rupees.

If you are staying in Ukhimath, remember that Omkareshwar Temple is the winter home of Kedarnath Temple and also Madhyamaheshwar Temple. In simpler words, the deities of the temples are shifted to Ukhimath for the winter months. It is a colourful temple and is highly recommended to pay your respects if you are here.

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Trekking from Chopta to Tungnath 

The trekking path to Chopta begins right on the road and is surrounded by many dhabas and guest houses. The trekking trail is well marked and is properly paved till Tungnath. Trees welcome the visitor as soon as the trek begins, and an endless array of snow capped peaks can be seen on the left side. The entire trek from Chopta to Tungnath and to Chandrashila is fairly easy and does not require the services of a guide.

Gorgeous meadows appear around 45 minutes after the start of the trek and may make the best camping spot on the entire trail. There are 3-4 dhabas here that provide tea, coffee, food and packaged eatables. The dhabas also double up as basic shelters in the night. These dhabas may also prove useful in case of an emergency or accident when somehow needs help.

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The trail zigzags around this point and steadily climbs up gaining altitude. There are a few places where one can sit and enjoy the views of the snowy peaks on the trail. Lucky ones can also sight the state bird of Uttarakhand, colourful Monal  – on the slopes near Tungnath Temple.

The tree cover gives way as you climb over 3100m, around halfway on the way to Tungnath and it can get quite hot with the sun shining brightly. Make sure to have ample water with you for the trek. Especially for beginners, remember it is not a race and that everyone has their own pace, so just take it slow and steady, and enjoy the scenery on the trek.

The trekking distance between Chopta to Tungnath is 4 kms and usually takes around 2 and a half hours to cover. 

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Tungnath is the highest Shiva Temple in the world located at an altitude of 3680m and is one among the Panch Kedar Shrines. It is believed to be more than 1000 years old. The temple is closed during the winters and the deity is shifted to Mukku village. Tungnath temple opens its doors to pilgrims in the summer around the end of April and shuts down in November in winter.

Around ten minutes before you reach Tungnath, there is a small detour to a peak called Ravanshila . It is the place where the demon king Ravana meditated to please Lord Shiva. There are panoramic valley views from Ravanshila. If you are unsure about the location of Ravanshila, it is best to ask the locals or dhabawallahs near the temple.

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Trekking from Tungnath Temple to Chandrashila

The path to Chandrashila starts from Tungnath temple itself. It is clearly marked and cannot be missed. Distance of Chandrashila Peak Top from Tungnath is approx. 1.5 kms and even though its a steep climb, the distance can be easily covered in 1 hour. There is a small temple at Chandrashila and from the top one can savour grand 360 degree panoramic views of the Kumaon & Garhwal ranges.

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Behind the temple there is an endless valley view enhanced by snowy peaks. One can savour the sights for some time and listen to the wind that blows furiously here, with the sound of the bells it makes for a divine experience. Remember that the altitude of Chandrashila is 4000m and that one may feel effects of AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness). Keep water handy and in case of any discomfort, slowly trek back to Tungnath and have a black tea.

Views of the peaks are generally clear till noon and after that the snowy mountains may be obscured by clouds. Hence it is recommended to reach Chandrashila as early as possible for a clear view of the peaks of both Kumaon and Garhwal ranges. Names of the peaks that can be seen from Chandrashila Top are  Nanda Devi , Trishul, Chaukhamba, Nandaghunti, Thalaysagar, Dunagiri, Kamet, Kedar dome and a few more.

There are cairns made with rocks that are spread on Chandrashila Top and also shivlings as well. It makes for a nice environment for being in a meditative frame of mind.

Read :  Going on a vacation with your traveler boyfriend – Sounds awesome?

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Sunrise at Chandrashila

It is highly recommended that one reach Chandrashila just in time for sunrise which is a spectacular affair. The horizon is painted in shades of yellow and orange as the sun rises from behind the snowy peaks of Kumaon & Garhwal. For this one has to start the trek from Tungnath temple at around 4 am, in absolute darkness. It is essential to be well equipped with flashlights and cold gear if you are planning to do the same; Chandrashila Top at 4000m is bound to be cold at that hour. Needless to say, sure footedness is advised, even more so when its dark.

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According to a mythological legend, Chandrashila is the place where Lord Rama performed penance after killing Ravana.

Trekking back to Tungnath & Chopta

The downhill journey will be surprisingly easy as the time taken will be roughly around half the time taken to ascend. So one can come down from Chandrashila to Tungnath in hardly 20 minutes. If there is no hurry, then a leisurely walk back across the meadows from Tungnath to Chopta will take around an hour and a half.

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Option of Sari – Deoriatal (Devariyatal)

While coming from Ukhimath, there is a cut off for Sari village. Distance from Ukhimath to Sari village is 13 kms. The road to Sari bifurcates at a place ‘Hanumant Inn Resorts’; the straight road continues to Chopta and a left from here will bring you to the pretty Sari village. Sari village from left turn off point at Hanumant Inn resorts is only 3 kms. One can walk this distance; or wait for a shared taxi ride or a hitched ride on a bike. Locals of Sari village are really helpful and  stop for everyone even if they are on a bike. 

Sari village

From Sari village, there’s an easy 2.5 km trek to Deoriatal (2300m) that takes around 1 and a half hour. The trek path passes through the lovely village of Sari that has some charming old houses. It is a well marked trail and there is no possibility of losing your way. There are 4 dhabas at regular intervals on the steep trail and even though the distance from Sari village to Deoriatal lake is not much; it does take time due to the sharp ascent. Recommended to carry ample water otherwise you may need to buy from the dhabas. One can spot Tungnath temple and Chandrashila peak from the trail to Deoriatal just before reaching the third dhaba before the lake. Ask the dhabawallas to show the temple to you!

Sari Deoriatal

Deoriatal is a small lake amidst green meadows (Tal means lake). The main charm of this place is the reflections of the snowy peaks during sunrise. Accommodation in the form of Tents and Camps is available quite close to Deoriatal lake, charging around 600-800 per person including food. For budget travellers, there are a few dhabas near Deoriatal which also double up as basic sleeping spaces in the night (charge 100-200 per bed). I also spotted a pretty Forest Rest House on the other side of the lake but am not sure how can one book it. Would surely make for a great place to enjoy the sunset in solitude, near Deoriatal lake.

Deoriatal

Where to stay in Sari?

Sari has to rank as one of the prettiest villages that I’ve ever seen in Uttarakhand and there are numerous guest-houses, homestays and even hotels to stay. Most of the locals are involved in the tourism business; either by working as guides, or trekking operators for big agencies, or providing camping services in Deoriatal, or running a guest house and restaurant. Despite every second structure being a homestay, Sari does not feel like a commercialised village and the sight of rustic houses surrounded by gorgeous green fields will stay with you forever.

Most of these basic stays charge in the range of 400 to 800 per night for a room, including attached bathroom with a geyser. The homely restaurants serve delicious food in Sari. Remember to ask them for a thali instead of ordering a-la-carte. We ate at a place called Himanshu Guest House (hope I remember correctly) and he made a really excellent  chaunsa  dish; and charged us only 60 Rs. per person including chapati and rice.

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  • From Deoriatal, one can also directly trek to Chopta. The path involves crossing Rohini Bugyal (Bugyal means meadow). A guide is recommended for this part, because the trail may not be well marked. This trek from Deoriatal to Chopta, through Rohini Bugyal should take around 6 hours in total.
  • Stay in Deoriatal, trek back to Sari village in the morning and then go to Chopta by shared sumo or public transport. Distance of Chopta from Sari is 18 kms. Once you are in Chopta, the same path as mentioned earlier.  

If you are descending from Sari and are looking to reach Ukhimath; them a shortcut is to take the walking trail through Sari village that leads you to the main road near Mastura village. This walking path is 1 km of sharp descent but covers a distance of more than 8 kms if one were to go by road. This route is recommended for those who have no means of transport and are looking to reach Ukhimath. Shared taxis keep plying from Sari to Ukhimath the entire day at intervals.

The Legend of the Sites of Paanch Kedar

Shiva had taken the form of a bull when he went into the ground to escape the Pandavas. Kedarnath temple is dedicated to the hump of Lord Shiva and is the most famous Paanch Kedar Shrine. The other Paanch Kedar sites are; Tungnath, Madyamaheshwar, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar. At Tungnath temple, Lord Shiva’s arms are worshipped.

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Important Facts and Recommendations  :

Best time to go to Chopta and trek to Tungnath & Chandrashila is during the month of March/April/early May for seeing rhododendron blossoms. The entire landscape is bathed in a sea of pink flowers! The monsoon months from June to August are also said to be good for this trek, keeping in mind the weather forecast and conditions. September to November are supposed to be the best months to trek to Tungnath & Chandrashila for the clear views of the Himalayan mountain ranges. Views of the snowy peaks are clear during this time.

December to March can be a difficult time to reach Chopta due to snow on the roads. Technically the trek is still possible during the winter season but the dhabas and guest houses at Duggalbita and Chopta will be closed. Therefore, it is recommended to use the services of a trek operator or travel company if one if planning for a winter trek to Chopta Tungnath. Snow starts melting around February making it easier to trek from that time onwards.

Read :  Walking in the Snow from Jalori Pass to Shoja

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During winters, the road to Chopta may be closed due to snow near Duggalbitta itself and you may need to trek to reach Chopta. Hiring a guide is recommended if one is planning a snow trek to Chopta and Tungnath. Trekking to Chandrashila can be quite difficult in the winter months and is not recommended unless you are an experienced trekker. Better safe than sorry.

During rhododendron flowering season, it is recommended to buy rhododendron juice at any shop in Chopta/Ukhimath. There is no electricity in Chopta, but almost all guest houses have solar powered lights and even phones can be charged with the same. There are a number of shortcuts on the entire trek and one can take some of them on the way back from Tungnath to Chopta.

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Stunning views on the Deoriatal – Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila trek include unparalleled sights of the Chaukhambha massif with views of Neelkanth and other peaks.

It can get quite cold in Chopta, Tungnath and Chandrashila and the temperature can go down to less than 10 degrees celsius even in summers, therefore carrying heavy woollens is advised all through the year. Keep a comfortable headgear to stay warm from the cold winds that blow on the trek. Phone networks are not reliable on the entire stretch from Chopta to Tungnath to Chandrashila. Airtel had zero tower in Chopta while Vodafone had 1 dot and no internet. BSNL was being used by locals who said that the internet works fine on it in Chopta. It is better to make your important phone calls from Ukhimath itself.

Read :  Unexpected friendships at Prashar Lake

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Drinking water is available in plenty in Chopta as pipelines have been laid down by the government. There are no menus in the dhabas and eateries of Chopta and it is better to ask the prices of food before ordering to avoid an unpleasant situation. Remember to keep a lot of water with you on the trek and not empty it before you reach Tungnath. It is recommended to carry some candies with you, they help the throat to not get dry on uphill climbs. The dhaba guys near the start of the trek in Chopta have started charging insane amounts of money for breakfast (update : March 2018) and hence it is better to go to a restaurant which is reasonable.

There are 3-4 general stores in Chopta. It is recommended to carry a power bank to recharge your electronic devices. ATM’s on the route are available in Rudraprayag, Srinagar and Ukhimath, but it is advised to keep required cash with you. Try to carry as less weight as possible with you in the backpack, and leave the excess stuff at Chopta or the Guesthouse you are staying at.

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Basic idea of the costs from Delhi  (per person) : Janrath AC tickets from Delhi to Haridwar & back  – Rs. 800/-. GMOU Bus from Haridwar to Ukhimath & back – Rs. 600/-. Shared taxis Ukhimath to Sari/Chopta and back – Rs. 200/-. Stay at Sari/Chopta/Tungnath/Ukhimath – Rs. 250 per person per day. Food : 300 Rupees per person per day.

So for a 3 day trip, the expenses can be roughly worked out to around 2500-3500 Rupees per person.

Please ensure that as responsible travellers and trekkers you don’t litter the place, and try to keep it as clean as possible.

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Bus connections to come back from Chopta to Ukhimath and then back to Haridwar/Rishikesh

There is a solitary bus everyday from Gopeshwar to Ukhimath that goes through Chopta; its time of crossing Chopta is 2 pm. According to the locals, this bus service is erratic and it is better to go to Ukhimath by shared sumo. Shared taxis run all day from Chopta to Ukhimath and cost around 50 Rupees.

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From Ukhimath to Haridwar, the earliest bus is a GMOU service which leaves at 05:30 am and reaches Rishikesh at around 11:30 am and Haridwar at 12:30 pm. Most buses to Haridwar/Rishikesh/Dehradun leave from Ukhimath in the morning hours. The locals told me that the last bus for Haridwar is at around 1 or 2 in the afternoon.

Read :  Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, in Pictures

Slow and steady, always your best buddy 

Since most of you who read this are likely to be city dwellers; a sedentary lifestyle has left us in a not-so-fit position health-wise. Remember to keep it simple, take less weight on your back and progress slowly and steadily on the trek. Fall in love with nature and let your mind take a break from the busy everyday schedule. Make friends with unknown strangers and keep the trail and surroundings pristine.

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If I’ve left out any detail in this detailed travel guide to Chopta, please do let me know in the comments section. Always happy to hear feedback.

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222 thoughts on “a detailed travel guide for chopta, tungnath, chandrashila trek”.

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very interesting and amazing details you provide.

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Well crafted article

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Thanks Sarba.

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Thanks for the great article on travel guide! I found it to be very informative and well-written. I would definitely recommend this article to anyone interested in learning more about travel.

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Can you please tell me if it is ok if a child aged 5 years go on this trek. as you said, slow and steady, we will use this approach

Thanks a lot, Babita.

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Thanks for the informative article on travel guide! I read it to be very informative and well-written. I would definitely recommend this article to anyone interested in travel & trekking.

Thanks Raj for the appreciation. Glad you found it useful.

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Thanks for the appreciation.

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hi travelshoebum,

Such a great article about chopta tungnath from traveling to local food and places. Tungnath is a hidden gem in the Himalayas.. I remember the sunset I saw from the top in May 2019, I really can’t describe the feeling.

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Thanks for sharing this Detailed Travel Guide for Chopta, Tungnath, Chandrashila Trek. I am actually planning to explore this beatiful place in next weekend 🙂

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Your detailed travel guide for the Chopta, Tungnath, Chandrashila Trek is a goldmine of information, offering not just practical tips but also a vivid portrayal that inspires wanderers to embark on an enriching and unforgettable mountain journey.

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Tungnath: Trek To The Highest Temple Of Lord Shiva

How about a peek-a-boo to one of the oldest and highest Shiva temples in the world?

The thought itself brings such a surge of overwhelming emotions, isn't it?

Tungnath Temple has perched on the Chandrashila Parvat in the Tungnath mountain range, in the state of Uttarakhand. It sits atop an intimidating altitude of 12,073 feet .

Tungnath Temple is a heavenly abode that literally translates to “God of Mountain Before. Set amidst the most beautiful backdrop, it is not only the highest temple of Lord Shiva but also the highest of the PanchKedar temples.

We will discover more about this magnificent place of worship, first, let us quickly learn about the Panch Kedar temples .

These 5 temples (PanchKedar) are the holy places dedicated to Lord Shiva and therefore, held in high esteem by Hindus for pilgrimage.

The strict order that one should follow for a pilgrimage to these temples is Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.

Tungnath is the Tritiya Kedar (3rd) among the PanchKedars .

Starting point of Tungnath: Chopta

chopta uttarakhand

The beautiful meadow of Chopta is perched at an elevation of 8,556 ft in the lush evergreen forest area of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary . It is a small region that lays 29 km from Ukhimath. Chopta village, also famously known as the “ Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand ” is the unspoiled hamlet in the Uttarakhand Himalayas with the mesmerizing view of the majestic peaks such as Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Nanda Devi that leave you awestruck.

Chopta village is blessed with the nature all around it, be it the forest of pine, deodar, and rhododendron or the chirping of the rare bird species to the animals from the wildlife sanctuary. Chopta will leave you mesmerized with its beauty.

Isn't it ironic that the trek to the highest Shiva temple in the world is short and moderately easy? The trekking route starts at Panger village and journeys to Chopta, the base camp of the trek. This simple yet adventurous trek of 5 km (from Chopta to Tungnath) is dotted with a mixed terrain against the backdrop of distinct Himalayan peaks.

About Tungnath Temple

tungnath temple in winter

Tungnath temple, also known as Tunganth Mahadev is believed to be more than 1000 years old. It is said that the temple was discovered by Adi Shankaracharya . The temple is the abode of Lord Shiva and houses his beautiful idol. The idols of Goddess Parvati and many other Gods are also located in close proximity to this temple. Owning to harsh winters, the idol of Lord Shiva is moved to his nearby winter abode , Mukkumath Temple during the winter season.

The artistic architecture of Tungnath temple and its bewitching location attract hordes of tourists to this majestic abode of God.

Tungnath temple is best visited along with the Chopta-Chandrashila trek that also covers the high-altitude glacial lake called Deoria Tal.

Tungnath Summit: Chandrashila Peak

chandrashila summit

Chandrashila meaning the “moonrock” is the summit or the endpoint for the Tungnath Mahadev Trek . Chandrashila peak is at the alluring height of 13,000 ft above the sea level. Chandrashila has many legends associated with it. According to one legend, Lord Rama after defeating Ravana meditated at this peak. It is also believed that Lakshman, younger brother of Lord Rama meditated here at the Chandrashila Temple.

Another legend that makes Chandrashila peak such a unique destination is, Chandra, the god of the moon stayed here in self-abasement.

The trek route to Chopta Chandrashila trek journeys through lush meadows, quaint hamlets, and thickets of forests to reach the spellbinding temple. The trek moves further to Chandrashila Peak; it takes a steep hike of 1.5 km from Tungnath to reach Chandrashila peak.

The highlights are of the trek are Chopta village, Sari villages, Tungnath Temple, Chandarshila Peak, and Deoria Tal Lake.

While Chopta-Chandrashila trek can be an exciting all-year-round experience, it should be avoided in winters if you are not game for chilly weather. Also, the temple remains closed during the winter months.

Some quick facts about Tungnath-Chopta-Chandrashila trek

  • Region- Uttarakhand Himalayas, Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand
  • Elevation- 13,500 feet
  • Trek difficulty level- Easy
  • Trek distance- 15 km
  • Trek duration- 4 days
  • Start point- Panger Village
  • Best time to visit- Winter months of December, January, February, and March
  • ATM- Last ATM is at Ukhimath, 30 km before Chopta.
  • Market- The last market is also at Ukhimath, 30 km before Chopta. It is recommended that you carry essential items with you as you may not find everything that you are looking for in this marketplace.

The mythology around Tungnath Temple

tungnath temple

The mythology behind Tungnath Temple dates back to the times of Mahabharata. Legend has it that Pandavas after winning over Kauravas in the battle of Mahabharata seeks atonement of their sins. Rishi Vyas suggested Pandavas ask Lord Shiva for forgiveness.

Pandavas went in search of Lord Shiva in different directions. Lord Shiva was convinced of Pandavas' guilt of killing their cousins, Kauravas. Therefore, he avoided Pandavas by taking the form of a bull and hiding underground at Guptakashi.

Later, when Lord Shiva took his original form, His body parts were discovered in five different spots. Pandavas constructed five temples at these spots in honor of Lord Shiva, which are called the Panch Kedar.

Each temple is associated with the body part of the bull (Lord Shiva’s body) that was discovered there. According to scriptures, at Tungnath Temple, Lord Shiva's hands (bahu) were seen.

For this reason, Pandavas constructed Tungnath Temple to appease Lord Shiva .

How to reach Tungnath?

The best way to reach Tungnath by air is via Dehradun. Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Chopta, it lies in Dehradun. From the airport, it takes around 9 hours to cover the 220 km distance to reach Panger village, near Chopta.

Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh are the nearest railway heads to Tungnath, at an approximate distance of 204, 184, and 162 km from Chopta respectively. Major trains like Shatabdi, Jan Shatabdi, Doon Express, and Rajdhani ply between these cities and other major cities of India. From Dehradun, Haridwar, or Rishikesh, there are taxis or buses till Panger village, near Chopta from where the trek commences. One can get many taxis/cabs just outside the railway station.

Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh are well connected to major cities of India via State transport buses or private buses. Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh are at a distance of 204, 184, and 162 km from Chopta respectively. It takes approximately9 hours and 8 hours to reach Panger village from Dehradun and Haridwar respectively. From Rishikesh, it takes around 7 hours to reach Panger village.

Many taxis or cabs are also easily available that take you to Haridwar or Rishikesh from all the major cities of India.

The distance between Delhi and Chopta is 450 km. You can drive down in your own car or hire a taxi from Delhi to Panger village, it takes 10-12 hours.

Chopta has good motorable roads that connect it with all major towns in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state. Taxis/buses regularly ply between Chopta and Haridwar, Dehradun, Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath.

Weather and temperature at Tungnath

snow covered trail to tungnath temple

The weather from April to October (barring July and August) is very inviting with bearable temperatures. It offers the most comfortable and opulent framework for visiting Tungnath.

But the best time to undertake the Tungnath-Chandrashila-Chopta trek is in the winters when the area witnesses snowfall.

The major flipside is that due to heavy snowfall, the Tungnath temple is closed for 5 to 6 months during winter.

Let’s look in detail what each month has to offer.

Spring-Summer months of April to June

The spring and summer months are ideal to embark on Tungnath trek as the climate is refreshing and extremely pleasant. The average temperature of the place shuttles around 16 degrees Celsius. Rhododendrons in tones of red, pink, and white adorn Chopta village in April and May. The spring-summer months offer the perfect ambiance for trekking and the beauty of the terrain is at its pinnacle.

Fall months of September to November

This beautiful region of Uttarakhand blazes with a variety of fall colors in autumn months. The region bathes in the sparkling beauty of fresh greens from the monsoon months gone by. The freshness in the landscape is palpable.

Truly a photographic delight!

Winters months of December to March

The months of December, January, February, and early March impart a fairy tale look to the place. The pristine beauty of the region cannot be put into mere words.

There is no doubt that the winter trek to Tungnath Temple and ahead is a bit tricky because of the region witnesses abundant snowfall. The temperatures can range between 10 degrees in the daytime and drop to even minus 15 degrees in the night.

However, the beauty of the trek during winter time is ethereal. The crystal-clear skies and stark views of snow-capped Himalayas make your trek every bit worth it. The Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak are blanketed under thick sheaths of snow.

Things to do in Tungnath

camping-at tungnath-chandrashilla-trek

Tungnath is not an exclusive sightseeing locale. But it offers the most mesmerizing spiritual and adventurous experience to tourists. It is one of the ancient shrines snuggled amidst the picturesque backdrop that equals a picture postcard setting.

Pilgrimage- Out of the 5 PanchKedar shrines, Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple that holds deep reverence for Hindus. Pilgrims embarking on the Char Dham yatra usually visit Tungnath to seek blessings of Lord Shiva.

Trekking- The trekking route to Tungnath starts at Chopta . The trek of easy grade level takes you to the scintillating landscape of Garhwal Himalayas.

Birdwatching- The region in and around Tungnath, especially Chopta, is home to exotic species of birds. You can watch wild goat, Monal, Pika Mouse, and also musk deer, if lucky. The ideal months for bird watching are from February to April.

Enjoying nature- For nature lovers, the nearby Sari and Chopta villages, Deoria Tal, and spectacular Chandrashila summit offer a spellbinding vista and dreamy solitude.

The hushed hamlets of Sari and Chopta are the hidden gems of Uttarakhand. The sunrise view at Sari and Chopta is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. When the crimson rays of the sun paint the snow-laden mountains in hues of red and orange, the villages look paradisiacal.

Deoria Tal , the emerald water body set amidst the mammoth Chaukhamba peaks is a sparkling jewel that enamors tourists with its sheer beauty.

Chandrashila summit offers a spectacular 360 degrees view of the Garhwal Himalayas. Glimpses of Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghanti, Trishul, Dunagiri, Kamet, Thyalasagar, Chaukhambha, Kedar peak, and many Gangotri peaks mesmerize you with their imposing panorama from the top.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tungnath trek.

Tungnath trek is only 5 km from Chopta. It is easily completed in 4 to 5 hours with frequent rests in between. Much of the time taken depends upon the physical and mental endurance of the trekker. Tungnath trek route is the shortest as compared to the other PanchKedar routes.

Is Tungnath Safe?

Tunganath is one of the safest trekking routes of the Uttarakhand region. However, one should avoid undertaking the Tungnath trek in the months of July and August. The region receives rainfall and is prone to landslides and road blockages. Tungnath is touted as a winter trek for adventure seekers and nature lovers. But winter months should be avoided if you don't enjoy the cold weather. A point to note is that the wildlife in the Chopta region can be a little hostile. Therefore, tourists should not move around in the forest after dusk.

What is the difficulty level of Tungnath Trek?

The trek to Tungnath Temple takes you to an elevation of almost 12,000 feet above sea level. It is touted as a trek of moderately easy grade level. The trek journeys along with thick forests and expansive grasslands, and treats one with the breathtaking vista of snow drifted the Himalayas.

Is there snow in Tungnath trek?

In the winter months from December to early March, the temple of Tungnath is bedecked with a thick layer of snow. Snowfall is very common during this time of the year. The temperatures can go well below the freezing point. The air is crisp and the skies azure blue. If you are a winter buff who loves snow then winter is the season for you. It is recommended that you carry warm layered clothing to keep yourself comfortable. Trekking during these months is full of adventure but if you can take up the challenge then go for it.

In short, the Tungnath-Chandrashila peak trek is an upbeat mountain adventure soaked in spirituality and fun! This trek located in the heart of Uttarakhand makes for the most momentous excursions in the lap of nature. Just go for it!

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A Complete Guide for Chopta, Deoriatal, Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek

Peaks visible from Chandrashila

Deoriatal Chandrashila is one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand. Thousands of people visit Chopta and do this trek every year. Though the internet is brimmed with articles of this trek, still there is some information that is missing. I have done this trek more than 12 times, that’s why I decided to share all the required information based on my knowledge and experiences. Here is a detailed guide of Chopta, Deoriatal, Tungnath & Chandrashila trek.

Read my experience here: Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek – A Weekend Trek with grand views

About the places:

A small settlement near Ukhimath in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Mainly known for the views of Kedarnath massif, meadows and the beginning point of the trek to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak.

The temple is considered the highest Lord Shiva Temple in the world situated at an altitude of 3680 m. It is also one of the Panch Kedar temples in Uttarakhand. Apart from this, there are 4 other temples in Panch Kedar, named Rudranath, Kedarnath, Madhamaheshwar, & Kalpeshwar. The trek distance from Chopta to Tungnath is 3.5 km.

Tungnath Temple

Chandrashila

It is a high 4000 m trekkable peak situated just above the Tungnath temple. Also called the Moon Rock , the peak is known for panoramic views of snowcapped Himalayan ranges. Many remarkable peaks including Nanda Devi are visible from Chandrashila.

Temple at Chandrashila Peak

A scenic lake settled at 2400 m just above the Sari village which is around 20 km from Chopta. It is surrounded by lush greenery and snowcapped mountains. One can have much closer views of Chaukhamba and Kedarnath peaks from the lake.

View this post on Instagram The lake and the mountains have become my landscape, my real world. 🤗 #travelwriter #travel #instatravel #travelgram #passportready #travelblogger #wanderlust #ilovetravel #postcardsfromtheworld #traveltheworld #igtravel #igwriters #travelpics #worldcaptures #instagood #photooftheday #instadaily #wravelerforlife #travelphotography #wanderer #lakes #deoriatal #chopta #uttarkhanddiaries #uttarakhandheaven A post shared by Manu Khandelwal (@indian.backpacker) on Sep 22, 2017 at 8:20pm PDT

Deoriatal view during winter season

Possible Itineraries:

Itinerary 1.

Day 1: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Chopta Day 2: Tungnath and Chandrashila trek Day 3: Deoriatal Trek and return to Haridwar/Rishikesh

Itinerary 2

Day 1- Haridwar/Rishikesh to Sari village and trek to Deoriatal Day 2- Trek from Deoriatal to Chopta Day 3- Trek from Chopta to Tungnath & Chandrashila Day 4- Chopta to Haridwar and Rishikesh

  • These 2 itineraries are the most common. However, you can add/subtract the days as per your convenience.

Delhi – Ghaziabad – Meerut – Roorkee – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Shivpuri – Devprayag (Alaknanda-Bhagirathi Rivers confluence) – Srinagar – Rudraprayag (Alaknanda-Mandakini Rivers confluence) – Guptkashi – Ukhimath – Sari/Chopta

Alternate route:

Rudraprayag – Karnaprayag (confluence of Alaknanda & Pindar Rivers) – Chamoli – Gopeshwar – Chopta

  • Note- This route is long. If the first route is blocked/closed then you can take this route.

About the trail and terrain:

Sari village to deoriatal trek:.

The trek to Deoriatal starts right from the Sari village. The trail begins from the entry gate situated on the main road. Take the trail and start trekking on the paved rocky path. The trek distance is 2.3 km and it takes usually 2 hours to reach the lake. The initial trail is through the village, which passes through a temple situated there. The trail is well marked and paved all the way up to the lake. One can start seeing the shops situated 400-500 m before the lake. Continue on the trail bypassing all the shops and reach the lake. Chaukhamba massif will be visible in front of you.

Deoriatal and Chaukhamba view during november

Deoriatal to Chopta Trek:

The trek distance between Deoriatal and Chopta is 14 km and it starts from the lake itself. Pass the forest hut, watchtower and you will see a milestone showing the distance of Chopta. Continue on the same trail, through the forest and soon you will reach a dead-end from where you will have a bird’s eye view of Sari village. Take the left turn and climb up towards the Jhandi top. You will have a clear view of the Chandrashila peak from there. Continue on the trail going into the forest. After walking for around 2 km, there will be another steep stretch and then the forest will start again. The further trail will be a blend of ascent and descent. Then you will reach the meadows of Rohini Bugyal which is a perfect place to have lunch.

Cross all the meadows and the forest will still continue. You will reach a point where you will see a signboard hanging on a tree showing “Chopta 4 km”. Take the right turn from there and descend all the way down to the water stream. From there, take the trail going uphill. The trek distance is around 2 km from there. Soon, you will start seeing the road. The trek terminates at a road head and from there Chopta is 2 km. You can either get your vehicle or walk all the way to Chopta. Don’t forget to capture the sunset from there. It looks mesmerizing.

  • Note: The trail is not well marked so it’s better you take a local guide if you are a beginner.

Forest Trail from Deoriatal to Chopta

Chopta to Tungnath & Chandrashila Trek:

The trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila starts from the main road at Chopta. Take the paved trail and start climbing. The route is completely paved up to Tungnath temple which is 3.5 km from Chopta. After crossing the Tungnath Temple, the trail is not paved and is steep. Chandrashila peak is 1.5 km from the temple. Continue the steep trek on the zig-zag route. Enjoy the views from the peak. You will see many remarkable peaks from the summit of Chandrashila. Few of them are Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trisul, Mandani, Hathi, Ghori, etc.

Retrace the same route and trek down to Chopta.

  • Note: Start early morning by 3 am (summers)/5 am (winters)

Trekking trail to Tungnath Temple

Checkout another experience here: A Failed Trip Deoriatal Chopta

Difficulty level of the trek:

The trek is rated as Easy to Moderate. Trek to Deoriatal is easy. Deoriatal to Chopta is also easy but the long-distance can make you tired. Trek from Chopta to Tungnath is also easy as it’s well-paved and trek to Chandrashila is moderate due to its steepness. Highly recommended for beginners. However, this trek is suitable for all the trek lovers, be it a novice or experienced one.

Best Time to Visit:

The main attraction of Chopta, Deoriatal and Chandrashila are the views of Chaukhamba and Kedarnath peaks. According to that, the best time to visit Chopta and do the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek is March, April, October, and November. During this time, the weather remains also stable. Though the trek remains accessible throughout the year except for the monsoon season, the experience varies according to the time.

March, April & May-

The weather remains clear and the peaks are visible most of the time. The temperature remains bearable during day and night. One can find snow near Tungnath temple and the summit of Chandrashila. The trail remains full of rhododendron flowers as it’s the blooming season.

Rhodondendron view during spring season

December, January & February-

The peaks are clearly visible if the weather is not cloudy. The temperature drops below zero during the night and makes the place quite cold. Deoriatal, Chopta, & Chandrashila receive an ample amount of snow because of the high altitude. There are chances that the roads can get blocked and the trek might be called off. So do check the weather before planning.

Snow Trail of Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek

June, July, August & September-

The weather remains cloudy so peaks won’t be visible. High chances of rain are there and the trail gets slippery too. However, the place remains lush green.

Deoriatal during monsoon season

October and November-

Post monsoon season is also considered the best for most of the treks. The temperature remains bearable. The weather is also stable and the peaks remain visible. The beautiful state bird, Monal can also be seen during these months.

Monal bird seen on the way to Tungnath in november

Where to stay:

Since it has recently become popular in the last few years, there are no big hotels/resorts available.

Sari- Small hotels and guest houses are available.

Deoriatal- Camping is now banned at Deoriatal, near the lake. One can camp near the shops but you won’t find any big space.

Chopta- Small hotels and guest houses are available. Several campsites are available providing luxury Swiss camps.

  • Many people think that they can stay or pitch their camps at Tungnath temple or Chandrashila. Camping at Chandrashila is not possible as there is no space and it is too windy. You might find space near Tungnath temple but the place remains windy and gets too cold at night. Also, local authorities won’t allow, as the place is considered sacred.
  • If you are planning to visit during any long weekend then don’t forget to book your stay in advance otherwise you would face a problem with finding a stay.
View this post on Instagram Bursts of gold on lavender melting into saffron. It's the time of day when the sky looks like it has been spray-painted by a Graffiti artist. . . #travel #indianlandscapes #landscapes #sodelhi #natgeoyourshot #storiesofindia #poi #indiapictures #photographers_of_india #yourshot_india #natgeoindia #icalandscape #woi #himalayangeographic #tripwithjustwravel #wravelerforlife #mypixeldiary #oph #photographersteam #indianphotos #outlooktraveller #othalloffame #neverstop #cntgiveitashot #lonelyplanet #sunset #deoriatal #uttarakhand_beauty A post shared by Manu Khandelwal (@indian.backpacker) on Jan 29, 2019 at 4:52am PST

Where to eat:

Small restaurants/canteens are available at Sari, Deoriatal, Chopta and on the way to Tungnath. You won’t find any shop/canteen while on a trek from Deoriatal to Chopta. So keep a packed lunch and some eatables (chocolates, juices, snacks) with you.

Nearby places and treks:

Ukhimath- Ukhimath is a central destination for places like Madhamaheshwar, Tungnath, & Deoriatal. Omkareshwar temple, situated at Ukhimath, is also considered quite sacred. The main shrine of Kedarnath is also placed at Ukhimath during winters.

Gopeshwar Mahadev temple- This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is quite famous. Thousands of pilgrims visit here.

Kartikswami Temple- Another famous temple near Ukhimath. This temple also offers closer views of Chaukhamba massif. There is an easy trek of 3 km to the temple.

Auli- One of the most popular destinations in Uttarakhand, Auli is a ski destination and is known for panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. Many people add Auli in the itinerary while exploring Chopta. One can take the following route to reach Auli from Chopta. Chopta –  Gopeshawar – Chamoli –Joshimath – Auli. It takes around 4-5 hours.

Bisuri Tal- It’s a lake situated near Rohini Bugyal and offers gorgeous views of the surroundings. Trek to Bisuri Tal is almost a virgin trek and is mostly explored by locals. The trail to the lake bifurcates from the Rohini Bugyal while trekking from Deoriatal to Chopta. One has to cross the valley and climb the mountain up to Chitragufa and then to the lake.

Panch Kedar- Apart from Tungnath, there are four other temples which are known as Panch Kedar, Rudranath, Madhamaheshwar, Kedarnath, & Kalpeshawar.

Himalayan Peaks visible from Chandrashila

How to reach Chopta:

Uttarakhand has two airports, Jolly Grant (near Dehradun) and Pantnagar. Jolly Grant Airport is the preferable one to reach Chopta. One has to take a flight to Dehradun and then take a bus or taxi to reach Chopta/Sari. Flights to Dehradun are available from all metro cities.

If you don’t get a direct flight to Dehradun then you can fly to Delhi and take a bus/train to reach Haridwar/Rishikesh. Nanda Devi express is a good train to catch. Buses are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate. For Dehradun, I would recommend you take only a government bus not a private one as they are not much reliable. You can find UTC (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation) and UPSRTC (Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) buses from ISBT Kashmere gate. There are 3 types of buses that usually run on this route, such as Volvo (or super luxury), AC Janrath (or normal AC) and Ordinary/Roadways. The bus usually takes around 6 hours. You can take any bus departing between 10 PM to 11:30 PM.

The last railway station one can reach is Haridwar and from there one can take a bus or taxi to reach Chopta/Sari. Trains are available from all the major railway stations in India.

Bus- There is no direct bus to Chopta available, neither from Delhi nor from Haridwar/Rishikesh. From Rishikesh/Haridwar, one has to take a bus to Rudraprayag, then a shared taxi/bus to Ukhimath and another shared taxi to Chopta. Ordinary buses to Rudraprayag are also available from Delhi. Taxi- Direct taxi to Chopta/Sari can be hired from Delhi as well as Haridwar/Rishikesh. Shared taxis are available from Haridwar/Rishikesh bus stand. Own car- One can also take his own car and take the route mentioned above. If you are using Google maps then always put Tungnath as your destination. Don’t enter Chopta as it shows the wrong way.

ATMs and phone connectivity:

The last ATM one can find is at Ukhimath. All network signals along with the internet are available at Sari village and Deoriatal (sometimes dicey).

At Chopta, signals remain dicey most of the time. Sometimes Airtel and BSNL work.

If there is any information that is required and is not mentioned in the above blog then please let me know.

Happy Trails 🙂

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Manu Khandelwal

An engineer and a travel blogger. Loves trekking and doing bike road trips. Burger lover (want to try every burger in the world). Clinomaniac. Sports fanatic. Likes technology but not a technology addict.

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10 comments.

That’s very kind of you. You have shared each and every detail very nicely. It will be going to help many trekkers like me.

Glad you liked the post. Thanks for reading 🙂

how long does it take for the deoria taal trek thru the forest (14km). I am a first time trekker and planning to go there in October.

Deoriatal to Chopta trek takes around 8 hours. It can take more depending upon the speed

[…] Also read: A Complete Guide for Chopta, Deoriatal, Tungnath, and Chandrashila Trek […]

Hi, Manu. Your article is truly the ultimate guide to the Chopta trek. You have covered all the questions that one can possibly have while visiting Chopta in this article. This is truly one of the best articles on Chopta. After reading your article I am experiencing a sudden urge to visit Chopta. Thank you for sharing this article with us. It was a pleasure reading your article.

Thanks a lot. Glad you liked the blog 🙂

[…] Also Read: A Complete Guide to Chopta, Tungnath & Chandrashila […]

This article is relay good, I am running may Camp in Chopta for last 5 years I always recommend this blog to my guest, it’s great research thanks Manu.

That’s very kind of you. You have shared each and every detail very nicely. It will be going to help many trekkers like me

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About Chopta Tungnath Trek:

Chopta Tungnath trek is one of the highlights of the circuit where the trek route surpasses the  1000+years  old  SHIVA TEMPLE . Sharp ascent and steep climb lead you to tungnath temple at  12000fee t. Distance from chopta is  3-4 kms.

Tungnath temple is difficult to reach during the winter due to considerable snowfall in the area. The altitude of the tungnath temple is approx 3600meters.

tungnath shiva temple

In past years, Chopta becomes one of the famous treks of Uttarakhand or you can say the most visited trek in north India. Trekking in chopta is a craze among the young trekkers.

Chopta tungnath trek is short and quite easy trekking distance is  3.5-4km  and it’s covered in  3 to 4 hours  and its elevation is  3680metres from sea level . During the trek, you can enjoy the memorizing views of such beautiful temples as  Chaukamba ,  Kedarnath ,  Nilkanth ,  Nanda Devi,  and  Panchchuli .

Height of chopta tungnath trek:

  • After trekking for  5-4kms , you will reach  Tungnath temple  at the height of  3,680 meters from  sea level.

Trekking distance from Chopta to Tungnath

  • The trek distance from chopta to tungnath temple is  5- 4km  and a further 2km steep trek to the summit of Chandrashila.

What makes Tungnath hiking unique?

  • The trek is so  easy , and  suitable for every age group  and people as compared to other  Himalayan treks.
  • It is the most easily accessible hike among Uttarakhand’s peak treks.
  • The chopta tungnath trek offers you a complete  360-degree view  of mighty  Himalayan peaks .

Why we should trek to chopta once in our lifetime

  • Chopta’s breathtaking beauty
  • Multiple trekking options at chopta
  • Nature and wildlife of chopta
  • Camping option at chopta

tunganath shiva temple

Things to carry for Chopta–Tungnath Trek

The essentials to carry for Chopta- Tungnath trek are as follows:

  • Keep your essentials with you such as a wind-proof jacket, socks, and cap.
  • Good quality shoes are also necessary.
  • Wear the right kind of socks with waterproof linings.
  • Build proper leg strength and simple warm-ups.
  • Practice using your backpack and choose gently with adjustable/foldable straps while buying.
  • A water bottle for around 1 ltr for hydrating yourself regularly.
  • Carry one bag of dry snacks/food, from home, as there might be a less quantity of shops while on the trackway.
  • Keep your luggage as minimum as u can, that will save your energy.

Things to know before going for Chopta Tungnath Trek

There are several things to know before going for the Chopta-Tungnath  trek, which is as follows;

  • Climatic conditions at the high altitude differ from plains; do a deep study about your habitat changing behavior.
  • Basic medicine and a first aid kit.

Highlights Highlights of Chopta Tungnath Trek

  • Trek to one of the highest Shiva temples in the world and discover utmost tranquillity.
  • Capture a chance to explore unique villages, forest trails, massive maple, oak, and pine trees, crystal clear lakeside, and much more.
  • Hike to 13,000 ft. and admire breath-taking views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath Peak, Bandarpuch, and Chaukhamba Peaks.

  Quick facts about the Chopta Tungnath Trek:

  • Tungnath Trek Temperature:  Day: 7°C to 14°C and Night: -4°C to 5°C
  • Top Altitude : 11,154 ft.

SUMMARY TUNGNATH

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Chopta Tungnath Trek: Everything You Need To Know

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Of all the experiences that we have while vacationing away from our homes, there is hardly anything that can provide a better connection to nature than trekking. Every single year, millions of tourists travel to mesmerizing locations to experience the nature trails.

All of this surely makes you want to have an experience like that for your own, doesn’t it? Why waste any more time, then? The Chopta Tungnath Trek is here to provide the sheer joy and the adventure of trekking through some of the most magical lands in Uttarakhand. Don’t miss the chance, people! Now is the time to book tickets. Excited, aren’t you? Wait till you get to know all about this wonderful trekking experience that has got everyone from locals to international visitors all excited.

Overview Of Tungnath Trek

When you search about the easiest yet the most exhilarating treks near the region of the Himalayas, the first name that pops up is the Chopta Tungnath Trek .

Witness the sheer beauty of nature as you trek along the peaks of Nanda Devi, Panchchuli, Kedarnath, and Nilkanth as they are all clear during this particular trekking course.

All of that combined and you have got the masterpiece right in front of your eyes.

The Tungnath trek consists of a very large portion which starts right from the spiritual lands of Haridwar and makes a stop at Chandrashila. In the full duration of the course, you will come across a range of other very interesting sights and areas. So, for those who are looking for a trekking experience that is easy enough for the first timers and yet is one of the most fulfilling experiences ever, this is the one to go for.

Some of the main attractions that you will get to see in the trek are the Tungnath Temple and also the very famous Chandrashila Peak along with some other beautiful points. Climb all the way above the peak and enjoy a panoramic view of the entire valley that stands below the hills and the mountains. We assure you that this will be an experience worth remembering.

So, what are you waiting for? Go and book the tickets right now to have one of the best trekking experiences of your lives. 

This post will provide all the details that you might find necessary during your trekking time. Buckle up as we take you on an amazing adventure that you will never forget.

What’s Special About The Tungnath Trek?

The Tungnath trek is a traveller’s dream. This trek is all about the experience. The entire trek is centred around the travel to the Chandrashila Peak on the way to which you will be passing the beautiful Deoriatal Lake . Opening up to a wide range of mountain peaks all over, this trek makes you want to stop and take it all in.

The trekking duration in total is usually about five days where you will get to experience the beauty of nature and some exhilarating challenges. It provides a breathtaking view of the summit views as well as valleys of lush greenery. It doesn’t matter whether you are an amateur trekker or an experienced one, a bird watcher or just a chap who loves travelling, the Tungnath trek is something that doesn’t fail anyone.

Another plus point of this trek is how easy it is. For those who are new to the world of trekking, the Tungnath trek is a great way to start because of its easy grade. There aren’t any extreme environments, and the blend between the summer heat and the winter chill is perfectly seen in this experience.

The highest altitude on the trek would be at the Chandrashila peak which stands at about 13,100 Ft. Once you reach there, you will be mesmerized with what you can see. The entire region looks like a dream. Just the look of the mesmerizing valleys from the top is surely a sight to behold.

How To Reach Tungnath Trek

The best way to reach the Tungnath trek  base camp is through Haridwar, and it is very well connected to different locations through air, road, as well as rail. So, the following are some of the best  transport options to reach Tungnath.

Flights from Delhi are available for those who want to travel to the trekking location. The closest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport (in Dehradun) located just about 36 km away from Haridwar and about 20 km from Rishikesh. After reaching the airport, you can find taxis at the stand which will take you to Haridwar or Rishikesh. From there you can visit Chopta in a taxi or by bus.

The distance between  Rishikesh/Haridwar to Chopta is about 164-255 km . You might need to book flights early because it is a very popular trekking course and people from all over the world book flight tickets to have an experience of trekking here.

The Haridwar Junction Railway Station is the closest railway connection with New Delhi and Dehradun. It takes anywhere between 4 to 8 hours to reach Haridwar by railway from Delhi. 

The National Highway 58 is connected to Haridwar where numerous buses travel daily. Grab a seat on one of these buses and have the time of your life. If you plan to do a road trip, you will be lucky enough to see the main attractions on the way as well. There are direct buses available from Delhi to Haridwar as well.

It takes a further 5-7 hours to reach Chopta from either Haridwar or Rishikesh by road.

Information of Base Camp in Tungnath Trek

Nestled right in the midst of the shimmering mountains of Uttarakhand, you will find the Chopta region. This quaint yet beautiful hill station stands at the height of about 2600m in total.

The trek begins from the Tungnath Temple .

This temple is one of the most revered places for the people of this region. Additionally, the lands of Chopta are filled with the most mesmerizing collections of fauna and flora. You can stop and admire the scenery right here at the Tungnath Temple .

The location is priceless and an unspoiled one. Also, it is a non-commercial location and you will be able to find lesser crowded spots and beautiful meadows in the lands of Chopta. The trekking trails are filled with the most beautiful sceneries and that too all year long.

So, that is all that you need to know about the base camp of the Tungnath trek . Do you not agree that this all seems to be so amazing to behold? Well, be present for the trek in Tungnath, and it might blow your minds away.

Best Season To Visit Tungnath

Many travellers from far and wide travel to this trek in Tungnath so that they can have an ideal trekking experience. Although the destination is available for trekking throughout the year, there is still a time where the lands open up to the visitors in the most beautiful way.

We would recommend that if you want to see Tungnath at its peak glory, then visiting the location in between March and May would be ideal.

This is the time when you will find the most beautiful weather here along with the best of the views set for you. 

Information/Advice To Visit The Tungnath Trek

Is it your first time trekking in Tungnath ? Well, in that case, you need all the preparation tips that you can get.

Packing preparation

  • Prepare all the way from clothing to other protective items that you might need to survive in the chilly weather of the mountains.
  • Also, ensure that you always have a safe space for all the protective gear that you have so that you can use it in the time of need. Keeping the essentials safely is also very important.
  • Apart from that, choose great-quality footwear and other essentials that will be able to keep you warm.

Fitness preparation

  • You might also need to build up some leg strength from trekking so gym training or going on walks and runs on steeper inclines will help.
  • Replicate the trek when you practice to make sure that you don’t feel weak during the experience.
  • Also, practice trekking with some weight on your shoulder as you will be trekking with your backpack.
  • Buying a walking pole for additional support during the trek is optional.

Do not overpack as you’ll be carrying your bag throughout the trek.

Things to Carry

Although you will have all the essentials in your backpack, there are some other things that you might want to carry while going around trekking here. We are presenting you with some of the most important belongings that you must have during the trekking course.

  • Carry good quality trekking boots that will last longer during the trek
  • You need to get camp shoes for the river walks, and you might need one for your visit to Devariyatal
  • Carry a winter jacket along with you always for dealing properly with the cold weather
  • Trekking pants are also an essential component. You will need them when you are climbing up the peaks. No one likes to climb in stacked jeans right?
  • Take a woollen cap or scarf in case you find yourself fighting the cold weather.
  • A cap that protects you from the sun 
  • Having a pair of sunglasses and some sunscreen will also be very useful
  • Walking stick (optional)
  • Water bottles and water purification tablets
  • You also need to carry a Swiss Army knife with you all the time
  • Insect Repellent
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Bandages/gauze
  • A small pair of scissors
  • Thread and needle
  • Personal medication for any existing conditions
  • Antibiotics
  • Medication for cold, stomach ailments, and nausea

Medical Advice

As adventurous as the trekking experience is, some accidental damages can happen in the way. Being prepared is the only thing that you can do during situations like these.

First aid kits that are usually available with the guides that show you around. However, it would be a great idea if you carry one for yourself. Keep all the necessities as per the above list.

Although the trekking guides have the precautionary measures for tourists, it is best to be well informed. These also include the knowledge about CPR or emergency resuscitation. Most people who go for these long treks in the areas of high altitudes may suffer from some common sicknesses.

There is a very common form of altitude sickness which is called the Acute Mountain Sickness. The symptoms are pretty common, such as insomnia, headaches, lung problems, gastrointestinal problems, ataxia and a lot more. You need to consult a doctor immediately to know whether you will be able to travel further or not.

You will have to pay entry fees at some of the checkpoints, and the rates vary from one to another. There are some additional charges for forest camping as well. The rest of it is covered by your tour packages. You wouldn’t need additional permission to embark on your trekking journey here.

Attractions in Tungnath and Around

While you trek around the entire land of Chopta, there are many different attractions that you will find here. These attractions are always filled with people ranging from tourists to locals. So, let us have a look at some of the serene locations around the  Tungnath Trek .

Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar, India

Known to be a land of spirituality, this location is considered to be one of the most religious locations in Uttarakhand.

One of the important things to remember while you are in here is that the place doesn’t allow alcohol and non-vegetarian food items.

You will find numerous breathtaking points of interest in here. Some of the main ones include the Chandi Devi Temple, Har Ki Pauri, the Manasa Devi temple and so much more. The place is known to be one of the holiest locations that you will find in the country, second to Varanasi.

Also read: 8 places to truly explore spirituality in India

Home to the world’s highest Shiva Temple, this location has got an altitude of about 3680m in total. So, once you are high up there, you can enjoy the entire view of the area from above. Apart from all these beauties, Tungnath is known as one of the names of the Panch Kedar shrines that are in Uttarakhand.

You might have to trek if you want to get to the place, but once you do, you will be mesmerized by the sight of the beautiful trees of deodar, pine, rhododendron and so much more. Go camping with friends under the night sky, watch the stars, and trek all the way through the hamlet and meadows.

But whatever you do, make sure that you visit the Tungnath Temple once.

Deoria Tal Lake at sunrise, Himalayas, India

When you visit Deoria Tal, be prepared to be amazed by the breathtaking view of the beautiful lake. Situated just 3 km away from the Sari Village, this location is the perfect example of peace and tranquillity. You can get a full 360-degree view of the Himalayas from here.

However, the main attraction would have to be the village tour that you get here. Come along and interact with the people around here to know the culture in a better way.

Capturing the moments of life in the village with the camera will be a cherishing experience for sure. Plus, there are mythological stories surrounding the place that are worth a listen. The story about the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata being asked questions from the Yaksha depicts this place as the exact location.

The Deoria Tal is situated at an altitude of about 2300m and serves as the perfect point for a breathtaking view. Trek along the hills and embrace the village social life while you make campfires in the night with the locals.

Chandrashila

Sun sets on the Beautiful Chandrashila Temple in the Himalayas of India.

When we talk about Chandrashila, it is the summit of the entire mountain where Chopta and the Tungnath Temple is situated. Perched high above at an altitude of about 4000m, this is one of the most interesting locations for a full-on view of the Chopta lands.

Get a full view of the Himalayas from here along with other mountains such as Nanda Devi, Kedar, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.

If legends are to be believed, then Chandrashila is considered to be the location where Lord Rama went to meditate after his victory over Ravana. So, there are many stories and myths related to the location. Sit back for some time, and you might be able to listen to a few of these from  the locals. Make sure that you visit the temple once you are here.

This place is also known to be as winter Kedarnath. This is the place where Lord Shiva is residing when Kedarnath remains closed for the winters and hence the name. This place also offers a breath-taking panoramic view of the great Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of 1300m, this location might not be that high, but it surely provides an awesome experience of trekking to the people who visit the place. The scenic beauty and attractiveness of the place are what attracts the tourists the most. Here at Ukhimath, you will be able to enjoy the view while trekking, visit the very famous Ukhimat Temple and have the best time.

Where To Stay In Tungnath

You wouldn’t have to worry about accommodation while you are trekking because Tungnath has got some great Homestays and guest houses for the tourists. The price of the rooms ranges between INR 100 and INR 500 for a single room.

These might not be the special glam luxury that you are used to in case of the hotels. However, the hotels are very well-kept, and the staff everywhere is friendly as well. You can also retire in a camping resort that you might find nearby. Book early, to ensure that you don’t miss out on the good deals. When it comes to accommodation, Tungnath doesn’t disappoint.

Conclusion: Have A Great Trekking Time Here At Tungnath

For us, city dwellers, a quiet and peaceful trekking experience along the mountain trail is a must. So, now that you know so much about Tungnath trek aren’t you all excited for your first trekking experience there? Well, why wait and waste time, then? Go ahead and make a booking right now. Book tickets for your transport, get yourself a good hotel deal, pack your bags, and come on over to this magical land.  

Related reading:

A guide to Triund Trek, the best trek for first-timers Reasons to go trekking at least once in your life How to prepare yourself for Chadar trek The top 5 mountain trails in the world for Orophiles Trekking experience to Machu Picchu Hiking up the mountain of death Journey to the base camp of Mount Everest

Great informative content shared with us, really enjoyed reading this and felt quite motivated to visit many treks as possible, as I am a beginner I need to know are these treks available for beginners or will there be any problem during it and you already cleared my doubt regarding fitness, will work on it and then plan one trek.

Amazing post . I also visit here a year before and I would say it is one of the best places I have been . Thank you ♥️

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Tungnath Trek

Tungnath trek: a divine himalayan adventure.

The Trek is a truly divine Himalayan adventure. This ancient trail, known as the Tungnath Trek, leads trekkers to the renowned Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple globally. The Tungnath Trek is a celestial odyssey where spirituality meets adventure, an experience where the serene Himalayas and the sacred temple create an extraordinary tapestry of wonder.

Discovering the Divine Tungnath Temple

Tungnath temple: a spiritual marvel.

• Elevation and Importance: Perched at an altitude of 3,680 meters, the Tungnath Temple is a shrine to Lord Shiva and a place of pilgrimage that draws people in search of spiritual guidance. • Spiritual tranquility: You have a sense of spiritual tranquility as you make your way up to the temple. The Himalayan panoramas and holy aura create a mesmerizing atmosphere.

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• Gateway to Adventure: With cozy lodging options like Chopta Swiss Camp, Chopta becomes the perfect starting point for the Chopta Tungnath Trek. • Calm Retreat: Before and after your trip, you can reflect and unwind in Chopta’s calm environment, which enhances the overall experience.

Tungnath Trek - Where Adventure and Spirituality Collide

The Trek offers a perfect fusion of spirituality and adventure, allowing you to commune with God while surrounded by the magnificence of nature. This excursion promises a profound journey of the soul with Tungnath Temple as its focal point and the Himalayas as its backdrop. Start your Tungnath Trekking adventure today to explore the exceptional in the Himalayan mysticism.

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  • Tungnath Trek In 2024: Important Points To Remember Before You Embark On A Journey

20 Oct 2021

Located in Uttarakhand, the trails of Garhwal Himalayas boasts abundant emerald rivers, natural beauty, snow-capped peaks, green-cloaked hills and lush green forests. Needless to say, the Garhwal offers many trekking trails for beginners to experts. Tungnath trek is one of the easiest and exciting trekking routes which offers an incredible experience to the trekkers. The pristine natural beauty and aura of these mountains will definitely enchant everyone and also offers a surplus choice of adventure. Adding to this adventure is trekking in the Garhwal Himalaya and explore it to the fullest. The splendid trails and picturesque views come as a treat to the trekkers after a strenuous trek.

Best Time For Tungnath Trek

Best Time For Tungnath Trek

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The best time for Tungnath trek is when the temple is open in the month of May (summer) and the deity of Lord Tungnath is taken from Mukumath to Tungnath temple. You can also trek during the winters from Jan and March to make the journey more exciting.

The weather during the summers is quite pleasant in the Himalayas where the temperature remains 16 degrees on average. The weather might get chilly in the evenings, thus, carrying of light woolens is recommended to keep yourself warm.

Due to rainfall, trekking in monsoon becomes a little challenging here as there are chances of blockage of roads for a couple of hours because of landslides. It becomes difficult to trek to Chopta during the monsoons.

Tungnath trek in winter allows the trekkers to enjoy the snow blanket covering the trails and mountains. Chopta looks best during the winters but the accommodation options are restricted to a few. Tungnath trek in December can become more difficult as it starts to snow.

Must Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In Uttarakhand In December For A Refreshing Escape

About Tungnath Temple

About Tungnath Temple

The highest shrine of Lord Shiva in the world is Tungnath that rests peacefully on the Chandranath Parvat. Housed on the top of the mountain ridge, this sacred temple divides the water of the Alaknanda River and Mandakini River. The formation of Akashkamini River is mainly due to the formation of the 3 springs which in turn is because of the peak of Tungnath on this ridge.

Soaring up at an altitude of 3,680 meters from the sea level, this temple aged more than 1000 years is undoubtedly worth visiting. Although the highest temple of Lord Shiva (of the five Panch Kedar temples), it is easiest to reach. Tungnath is the third Kedar (Tritiya Kedar) of the five Kedar (Panch Kedar) and is known for its artistic structure and magnificent architecture.

Designed in North Indian Style of architecture, the foundation of this temple was laid by Arjuna, the third of the Pandava brothers. There is a tale associated with this temple that says Lord Rama performed a meditation to free himself from the curse of Brahmahatya for killing Ravana. You can find a beautiful main idol of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati and there are a dozen shrines of other Gods surrounding this shrine.

Suggested Read: 14 Things To Do In Uttarakhand For Adrenaline Rush & Soul-Stirring Thrills

Things To Do On Tungnath Trek

If you are wondering what all you can do on the trek apart from admiring the scenery, here are some experiences you should definitely strike off your bucket list.

Temple

On your trek to Tungnath, visiting the sacred temple of Tungnath to seek the blessings is a must. It is better not to take the Tungnath trek in December as the temple is generally closed during the winters due to heavy snowfall and the idol of Lord is moved to the Mukku Village. The doors to this temple are open for the pilgrims during the summers at the end of April and shut in November.

Suggested Read: 12 Places To Visit In Haldwani On Your Trip To This Gem In Uttarakhand

2. Bird watching

Bird watching

While on your way to Tungnath, you can treat your eyes with the views of spectacular exotic Himalayan birds. Tungnath is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and abode to the most beautiful bird of India – Himalayan Monal. Plus, if you are planning your trip in winter, you will get to see Snow Partridge from a close distance.

While in Chopta, you can see Koklass Pheasant and if moved a little down from Chopta, you can also see some rare finches and nesting Pied Thrush. You can stop near the Mandakini river and see the Yellow-rumped Honeyguide. Those visiting Tungnath in early summers are rewarded with multiple sightseeing of the Spot-winged Starling. The lucky ones can also find musk deer around this region.

Other main attractions found in this region are Kalij Pheasant, Upland Buzzard, Golden Eagle, Bearded Vulture (Lammergeier), Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Himalayan Owl, Spot-winged Rosefinch, European Goldfinch, Fire-capped Tit, Ashy Wood-Pigeon, Nepal Wren-Babbler, Spotted Laughingthrush, Variegated Laughingthrush, Pied Thrush, Long-billed Thrush and more.

Suggested Read: 19 Places To Visit In Uttarakhand This Winter

3. Sightseeing

Sightseeing

Please yourself by the clear and picturesque views of the majestic peaks, Himalayas, and vegetation. Chopta is surrounded by dense forest and in the early spring, many flowers bloom in the Rhododendron forest that gives it a red glow.

Suggested Read: 17 Best Cottages In Uttarakhand Ideal For Your Next Vacay In Mountains

How To Reach Tungnath Temple

How To Reach Tungnath Temple

The length of Tungnath trek from Chopta is about 4 km, therefore, the trekkers will have to first reach Chopta and then set off on the Tungnath trek. Situated at an altitude of 2600 meters in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Chopta is the start-off point for your Tungnath trek.

In winters Chopta is embellished with snow meadows which makes your Tungnath trek in winter mind-blowing. The route of Tungnath trek is adorned with coniferous, mists and snow, which makes the journey more thrilling and one heck of a trek that you must take.

Firstly, you will have to reach Haridwar via railway which is at a distance of 225km from Chopta. Traveling via flight is another option and the nearest airport to Chopta is the Jolly Grant Airport at a distance of 260km. Next, catch a public bus to Chopta that are widely serviced to and from this city.

There are around 2 to 3 routes to reach Tungnath via Chopta, the mentioned one can is the best one among all. Once you reach Haridwar, you will have to head to Sari which is an 8hour drive from Haridwar. It is a picturesque base camp with plenty of campsites, homestays, and guest houses so you can also plan to halt here.

Suggested Read: 5 Best Water Sports In Uttarakhand For A Perfect Adventurous Trip This Summer

Important Tips: Tungnath Trek

Important Tips: Tungnath Trek

Keep these tips handy if you are planning to trek to Tugnath. These pointers will only make your trip hassle-free and enjoyable.

  • There are no major halting points from Chopta to Tungnath, it is best to carry plenty of water, trekking boots, warm clothes, raincoats, sunscreen, first-aid kit and prescribed medicines from the doctor if any.
  • Carry light snacks to munch when required, for instance, glucose, chocolates, biscuits, nuts, etc.
  • Carry a walking stick for extra support and waterproof trekking shoes as there are chances of slipping on the snow.
  • Carry power banks and cash as there are no charging points and ATMs on the route
  • Photographs are not allowed inside the temple
  • You can find rooms for the halt in Chopta, and Sari and not on the route to temple from Chopta
  • Avoid trekking during the nights.

Further Read: Uttarakhand In June: Your Personal Guide For A Blissful Vacay In Summer

The adventure aficionado can enjoy the best of both trekking and sightseeing during their trip to Tungnath . This year-round adventure is right in the heart of Uttarakhand and the route of Tungnath trek allows you to embrace the adventure you have been craving for. Plan your trek and embark on this exciting journey.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tungnath Trek

Is Tungnath temple open?

Tungnath is the highest temple of the deity Lord Shiva and is usually shut during the winter and is open during the summer for visit.

How long is Tungnath Trek?

One of the moderate and easy treks, the tungnath trek is approximately 4km from Chopta and can be reached within 3-4 hours. To reach Tungnath from Haridwar will take up to 3-4 days.

Is there snowfall in Chopta?

During the month of January the region is covered in 4 to 7 feet thick snow and a few roads to Chopta are blocked in the winters. There is an alternative route to Chopta via Deoria Tal, which is 10–12km trek.

Is Chopta safe?

Chopta is completely safe and the locals are very humble and assure the safety of the tourists. But beware of the wildlife and do not to roam around the Jungle after sunset.

What is the height of Tungnath?

Tungnath peak is located at an altitude of 3680 m (12073 ft) below the Chandrashila peak.

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Your complete guide to Chopta-Tungnath Trek in Uttarakhand

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , UTTARANCHAL / Created : Oct 11, 2023, 08:01 IST

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The Chopta Tungnath Trek offers a beautiful blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance. With careful planning and preparation, you can have a memorable trekking experience in this picturesque region. The Tungnath Temple is … Read more

The Chopta Tungnath Trek offers a beautiful blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance. With careful planning and preparation, you can have a memorable trekking experience in this picturesque region. The Tungnath Temple is nestled in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand and is a moderately challenging trek renowned for its lush meadows, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also the hightest Shiva temple in the world! Read less

Your complete guide to Chopta-Tungnath Trek in Uttarakhand

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Your complete guide to Chopta-Tungnath Trek in Uttarakhand

The Chopta Tungnath Trek offers a beautiful blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance. With careful planning and preparation, you can have a memorable trekking experience in this picturesque ...

tungnath trek view

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></center></p><h2>Tungnath Trek Distance: A Complete Guide for Hikers</h2><p><center><img style=

Introduction to Tungnath Trek

Located amidst the grandeur of the mighty Himalayas, the Tungnath Trek presents an adventure filled with spiritual and natural wonders. Tungnath Temple, found in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, stands proudly as the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva across the globe. The specialness of this place comes from its links to ancient Hindu tales and its stunning spot. People who love exciting journeys come here from all corners of the world. They want to experience the holy atmosphere and overcome the exciting paths that make up this expedition.

Imagine being in the lap of the enormous Himalayas, feeling their majestic presence around you. The Tungnath Trek lets you experience just that – a spiritually uplifting journey and breathtakingly beautiful. It’s like a memorable adventure that offers a connection to your soul and a chance to be amazed by nature’s beauty. This incredible journey happens in the Rudraprayag district in Uttarakhand, India. Tungnath, a place known far and wide, is the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. You might wonder why this temple is so unique. Well, it’s not just a temple; it’s a place woven into ancient stories that make it meaningful and captivating.

But this isn’t just a place of stories; it’s also a place of action and excitement. The Tungnath Trek isn’t your ordinary stroll in the park. It’s a challenge, an adventure that attracts people who love the thrill of the unknown. People come here from different corners of the world to feel the divine energy and conquer the challenging and demanding trails that lead to the temple. The journey isn’t just about walking; it’s about overcoming obstacles and pushing your limits to reach a place that’s not just physically high but spiritually uplifting.

So, if you ever dream of a trek that’s more than just a walk, if you desire to be surrounded by mountains that touch the sky and want to feel the ancient stories in the air, then the Tungnath Trek is waiting for you. It’s a journey that combines the awe-inspiring nature with the serenity of spirituality, offering an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Tungnath Trek Distance

The Tungnath Trek is a journey that covers a distance of about  4.5  kilometres, approximately the same as  2.8  miles. This path takes you from where you start to the unique Tungnath temple that holds great significance. People who love trekking can pick different ways to get to this important place of worship. One way many people like to take starts from Chopta, a hill station resembling a storybook picture. Another way starts from Chandrashila, a place known for its views that show a vast and beautiful scene. Each route you walk gives you a different view of the land and its loveliness.

The time it takes to complete the trek depends on how you go and how quickly you walk. On average, it takes about 3 to 4 hours to finish walking to the Tungnath temple. It might tire your body as you go up and down, but the calm and peaceful feeling you get from the surroundings and the amazing sights you see are worth the effort.

So, imagine yourself walking on a path that’s not too long but long enough to make you feel like you’ve gone somewhere. This path takes you to a temple that’s important to many people. You can choose how you want to start your journey – maybe from a charming hill station or a place where you can see a beautiful view. It’s like creating your own adventure story, where you decide the path and the pace. And even though your body might sometimes feel tired, the happiness and beauty you experience along the way make it all worth it.

Tungnath Trek Distance

Difficulty Level and Preparations

The Tungnath Trek offers a moderate level of challenge because of the kind of land you walk on and how high you go. People who go on this trek need to find their way through paths with rocks, places that go up steeply, and sometimes weather that can change unexpectedly. To prepare for this exciting journey, it’s essential to work on how strong your body is and how much it can keep going. Doing exercises that make your heart beat faster, your legs more robust, and walking quickly can help make you strong enough.

Talking about the things you need to carry, a few things are essential. You need shoes that are tough and meant for trekking, clothes that don’t make you uncomfortable, a backpack to carry your stuff, and a bottle for water. It’s also a good idea to have a kit for first aid, something to protect your skin from the sun like sunscreen, and a hat to keep your head cool. Having these things with you ensures you stay safe and feel good while on your adventure.

Imagine walking on paths that sometimes have big rocks, going up on challenging places, and not always knowing what the weather will do. This trek might not be the easiest, but it’s not the hardest either. You just need to make your body ready for it. You can do this by doing exercises that make your heart stronger, your legs tougher, and your stamina better. And when you pack your bag, don’t forget things like strong shoes, comfy clothes, and stuff to keep you safe and comfortable like sunscreen and a first aid kit. It might seem like a lot, but these things are like your helpers on the journey to ensure you have a great time.

Highlights and Attractions along the Trek

Embarking on the Tungnath Trek is like opening a magical book filled with the most fantastic nature stories. As you walk along the path, you’ll see forests that look like they’re from a fairy tale, meadows that are so colorful they seem unreal, and mountains covered with soft, white snow. And oh, the views! One of the most unique places to look from is the Chandrashila Peak. When you get there, you’ll be able to see the mountains around you, and it’ll feel like you’re looking at a painting that goes on forever.

But this trek isn’t just about nature’s beauty; it’s also about the stories of people who have lived here for a long time. You might see little stone shrines that have been there for ages as you walk. These are like small, quiet places where people have come to pray for a long time. And then some villages look like they’re right out of a storybook. People still live in these villages, and they have a way of life that’s special and different. Seeing these villages can give you a peek into how life was a long time ago.

Imagine walking on a path surrounded by the most beautiful things you can imagine. There are forests with tall, green trees, fields with flowers of all colors, and mountains that wear snow blankets. And when you get to an elevated place, you’ll see the hills around you, like they’re saying hello. But as you walk, you might also see small spots where people have prayed for a long time, and villages where people live in a way different from what you know. It’s like being inside a story, where every step takes you to a new page of adventure and wonder.

Safety Measures and Guidelines

Staying safe is the most important thing when you go trekking. There are some rules that you should always follow to make sure you’re safe. First, it’s better to walk with others in a group. This way, if anything happens, you have people to help you. Also, bring lots of water and snacks with you. They keep you strong and full of energy. Even if you’re in a hurry, don’t take shortcuts. It’s safer to stay on the path that’s known.

Your body needs time to get used to it when you’re going up high places, like in the mountains. If you don’t give it time, you might feel sick because of the height. So, it’s essential to climb slowly. You should also drink water regularly and take breaks. This helps your body adjust to the changes in how high you are.

Just think of it like this: when you go on a trek, you must be like an intelligent explorer. You stick with your group, bring things to eat and drink, and don’t rush. When you’re going up high, you need to give your body time to get used to it. This means strolling, drinking water, and resting. It might seem like a lot, but it keeps you safe and lets you enjoy your adventure without worries.

Personal Experiences and Recommendations

Just think of it like this: when you go on a trek, you must be like an intelligent explorer. You stick with your group, bring things to eat and drink, and don’t rush. When you’re going up high, you need to give your body time to get used to it. This means walking slowly, drinking water, and resting. It might seem like a lot, but it keeps you safe and lets you enjoy your adventure without worries.

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, the Tungnath Trek offers a unique adventure that beautifully combines spirituality and the wonders of nature. This journey takes you to a place like no other – where the mountains stand tall and the air feels crisp and fresh. Even though the path can be challenging, it’s worth every step because of what you see.

The distance you walk might seem challenging, but it’s also a gift. Along the way, you’ll be greeted by views that make your heart skip a beat. Imagine looking at mountains covered in soft, white snow and valleys like a painting come to life. It’s like a dream that you never want to end. And as you walk, you might come across small spots that tell stories of people who have lived here for a long time. These stories are like little windows into their lives and ways of living.

To make sure you’re safe and happy on this journey, there are a few things to remember. Safety comes first, so it’s essential to be prepared. You should know how to stay safe in different situations. And before you start walking, make sure you have everything you need. Good shoes, clothes that keep you comfortable, and things to eat and drink are all important.

So, if you’re looking for a special adventure, the Tungnath Trek awaits you. It’s a journey that mixes the magic of nature with the feeling of being close to something higher than us. And when you’re done, you’ll have memories that will stay with you forever. So, get your things together, tie your shoelaces, and embark on this incredible journey to see the amazing things waiting for you.

What is the distance of the Tungnath Trek?

The Tungnath Trek is approximately 4.5  kilometres, approximately the same as  2.8  miles in distance one way.

Where does the Tungnath Trek start?

The Tungnath Trek usually starts from the village of Chopta, which is the base camp for the trek. Chopta is well-connected by road and serves as the starting point for various treks in the region.

How long does it take to complete the Tungnath Trek?

The trek to Tungnath Temple from Chopta typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level. It’s considered a moderate trek, and the duration can vary based on individual factors.

Is the Tungnath Trek difficult?

The Tungnath Trek is considered a moderate-level trek. While it’s not extremely difficult, it does involve ascending steep trails and navigating uneven terrain. Adequate fitness preparation and proper trekking gear are recommended.

Can beginners do the Tungnath Trek?

Yes, beginners with a reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to tackle moderate uphill trails can attempt the Tungnath Trek. It’s important to take breaks, stay hydrated, and listen to your body during the trek.

What is the best time to undertake the Tungnath Trek?

The best time to do the Tungnath Trek is during the months of May to June and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather and clear views. The trek is usually avoided during the monsoon (July to August) due to heavy rainfall.

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Tungnath – Chandrashilla – Chopta – Deoriatal – Most Common Itinerary

Dheeraj Sharma

Are you looking for a day by day detailed travel plan or itinerary for a trip to Tungnath – Chandrashilla – Deoriatal? Look no further and follow the most popular itinerary for these lovely places in Uttarakhand.

Nowadays Tungnath – Chopta – Chandrashilla circuit is becoming one of the favorite places for travelers who have already been to other familiar places in Gharwal, Uttarakhand.

Most Popular Itinerary for Tunganth, Chandrashilla, Deoriatal trek

Tungnath – Chandrashilla trek offers not only much-needed peace and tranquility in life from time to time but also offers magnificent views of the Chaukhamba range in Uttarakhand . The presence of Deoriatal in the vicinity also spices up the vacation offering complete solitude aside a lake.

In winters, you can even plan an adventurous snow trek to both Tungnath and Deoriatal. At times, Chandrashilla becomes unreachable due to the presence of too much snow ahead of Tungnath and the risk of having a fatal incident.

Let's quickly dive into the details:

Background on Tungnath – Chandrashilla – Chopta – Deoriatal

Tungnath temple, at an altitude of 3680 Mtrs, is considered to be the highest temple of Lord Shiva and is one of the Panch (Five) Kedars. You can reach it by trekking around 3.5 km from Chopta. Madhmaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpnath with Kedarnath forms the Panch Kedar, the five most important temples of Lord Shiva in Garhwal Himalayas .

Chandrashilla, at an altitude of 4000 Mtrs, is the highest point of the mountain on which Chopta is situated. It offers 270-degree views of the Chaukhamnba range. It lies 1.5 km further of Tungnath Temple which makes it a 5 km trek from Chopta.

That snow trek to Tungnath - Chandrashilla

Chopta is situated at an altitude of 2600 Mtrs in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is well known as a base point for the trek to Tungnath temple and further to the Chandrashilla peak. But, Chopta itself offers a beautiful snow meadow in winters locally called Chopta Bhugyal (Bhugyal meaning meadow).

Deoriatal lake, at an altitude of 2438 Mtrs, offers mesmerizing reflections of Chaukhamba range in its crystal clear water. One needs to drive about 12 km to Sari Village from Ukhimath, and from Sari Village, one can reach Deoria Tal by a trek route of 2 km.

All these places are among the list of offbeat places in Uttarakhand .

Ukhimath lies 31 km from Chopta, where the deity of Kedarnath is shifted in winters. There are locale temples of Usha and Anirudh, Shiva and Parvati which we will be visiting too.

Sari Village - Base of Deoriatal

Common Itinerary for Tungnath – Chandrashilla – Deoriatal

This five-day itinerary traverses through Rishikesh – Srinagar – Rudraprayag route and comes back the same way. You can opt to go from Chamoli route as well in case you are also planning to visit Auli .

However, beware, the route from Chamoli to Chopta remains closed in winter when heavy snowfall blocks the roads. This article covers both Tungnath – Chandrashilla as well as Deoriatal. Below is the most common itinerary for Tungnath – Chandrashilla, spanning over 5-6 days and making the most use of each of the days.

Day 0 | Delhi – Haridwar / Rishikesh

  • Leaven early evening, may early out from the office to reach Haridwar/Rishikesh by night
  • Rishikesh is about 35 odd km from Haridwar
  • About 200-225 km / 4-5 Hrs drive to Haridwar/Rishikesh
  • Overnight at Haridwar or Rishikesh, whichever suits your timings
  • There may be office hours traffic in the evening, so leave before office timings to avoid jams

Day 1 | Haridwar / Rishikesh – Ukimath – Sari Village – Deoriatal Lake

  • Sari to Deoriatal is about 2.5 Km trek and takes about 1-2 Hrs depending upon your speed
  • Sari Village is about 12 KMs from Ukimath takes about 20 minutes
  • About 220 KMs / 8 – 9 hrs drive to Sari Village
  • Bhagirathi River and Alaknanda River confluence at Devprayag (Confluence)
  • Mandakini River and Alaknanda River confluence at Rudraprayag (Confluence)
  • Panorama to capture between Srinagar & Rudraprayag of river Ganga (Alaknanda) bending in U-Shape near Khankra bend
  • A cup of tea at Syal Saur between Rudraprayag and Kund. Govt. refurbished the remains of GMVN rest house after the Kedarnath tragedy
  • Have your lunch at Srinagar
  • There are camps for an overnight stay at Deoriatal: Camps or Tents at Deoria Tal – A Review
  • Overnight at Deoriatal

Day 2 | Deoriatal Lake – Duggalbitta / Chopta

  • Take rest up to late afternoon at Deoriatal & rejoice the tranquility in the air
  • Capture the amazing reflections of Chaukhamba range in the morning in Deoriatal
  • Trek down to Sari village and start for Chopta. In winters, last stay options will be at Duggalbitta and rest will be closed ahead of it
  • In winters, even the road is closed ahead of Baniya Kund mostly and you have to start the trek from that point.
  • Overnight at Duggalbitta / Chopta

Travel Tip : You can check out my list of places to play in snow or snowfall in Uttarakhand which are near Delhi.

Day 3 | Duggalbitta / Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashilla – Chopta / Ukimath

  • Start the trek from Duggalbitta / Baniya Kund / Chopta towards Tunganath (3.5 KM of the trek) + Chandrashilla (1.5 KM trek)
  • Start your trek by 6 AM and carry plenty of water with you
  • Starting early helps you walk over firm snow, and you can maintain the speed. As the sun rises, snow melts and softens making walking over it difficult.
  • In winters, it is critical to take the guide with you. You can get in touch with two good local guides Bharat Puspwan: 09719875326, 09456108780, and Umeid (09411737835), maybe if you need they can be of much help with everything and you can directly get in touch without involving any travel agent. Both Bharat and Umeid are good people at heart and friendly company on a trek. Bharat is working as a guide for almost for more than 14 years.
  • You will not find electricity at Duggalbitta, Chopta, Tungnath, and Deoria Tal. If you think you will need electricity, then do confirm with the hotels or guest houses at these places if they have a generator or not. Mayadeep hotel at Duggalbitta may run the generator for you.
  • In winter; there is no accommodation at Chopta or Tungnath, which you will find open. When there is ample snow, even Duggalbitta is hard to reach.

Day 4 | Chopta / Ukimath – Rishikesh

  • Start the journey back to Rishikesh. In summers, you can take Gopeshwar – Chamoli route where you can visit Kanchula Korak Musk Deer sanctuary.
  • If coming via Ukimath – Kund, you can take a detour to Guptkashi to see Vishwanath temple, Ardhnareshwar temple, and Manikarnika Kund
  • About 8 Hrs drive to Rishikesh
  • Overnight at Rishikesh

Day 5 | Rishikesh – Delhi

  • Do some water sports at Rishikesh including rafting or drive over to Neelkanth Mahadev temple
  • Take the route from Rajaji National Park this time while exiting from Rishikesh to Haridwar to enjoy a serene drive
  • Or you can decide to spend a day in Mussoorie .
  • About 5 Hrs drive to Delhi

Magical reflections in Deoriatal

Other Tips and Important Distances

  • Syal Saur to Ukhimath is 17-18 KMs approx. Syal Saur comes first even before Kund when going towards Ukhimath from Delhi.
  • Kund is the bifurcation point where left turn goes to Guptkashi – Gauri Kund – Kedarnath and the straight or slightly right turn goes to Ukhimath – Sari Village – Chopta
  • Kund to Guptkashi is about 25 KMs. Further, 22 KMs is Gauri Kund, where the road ends. From Gauri Kund, a 14 KMs trek starts for Kedarnath.
  • Ukhimath to Sari Village is 13-14 KMs approx. You need to go straight from Ukhimath, and you will find a board on the right side stating directions to Deoria Tal. Here, you need to take a U-Turn towards left for Sari village – Deoria Tal. If you do not take the U-Turn and follow the road coming from Ukhimath, then you go towards Duggalbitta – Chopta.
  • Sari Village to Chopta is 32 KMs approx and Duggalbitta is 4 – 5 KMs before Chopta.
  • Overall Delhi to Syal Saur/Ukhimath/Sari Village/Duggalbitta/Chopta is almost alike, with an overall span of about 50 KMs. Hence, from any place, you can travel to Delhi in one day without much time difference.
  • We couldn’t find any signals of Phone on the trek to Tungnath and Chandrashilla. Nearby Chopta, the phone signals were present but with inferior connectivity. There is no issue of Phone connectivity on the entire route before Duggalbitta. We had BSNL , Airtel and Idea connections with us.
  • Although there are several ATMs on the route as well, and we used Chandrapuri ATM, which comes after Agustmuni and before Syal Saur. Chandrapuri ATM is the closest ATM because I guess there is no ATM present at Ukhimath.
  • Nearest Petrol Pump is at Kund about 7-8 KMs before Ukhimath. I will suggest that you top-up the fuel either at Srinagar or Rudra Prayag.
  • Do not forget to carry these must-have things for a trekking trip .

You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂

That sunset on the way to Deoriatal

I am sure the above itinerary, if not help you 100% with planning a trip to Tungnath – Chandrashilla – Chopta – Deoriatal but can certainly act as a starting point. It is a beginner trek in the Uttarakhand – Himalayas and I am sure you will completely enjoy going up there.

Have a travel question?? You can follow me on Instagram and subscribe to my YouTube channel to ask your travel questions in a direct message on Instagram or comment on my YouTube videos.

You can share your valuable thoughts or queries or doubts you may have in the comments section of the article or in the DwD Community | Itinerary Advice forum for Uttarakhand and we can discuss more your upcoming Travel Plans for Tungnath – Chandrashilla – Chopta – Deoriatal :).

Feel free to share this article with any friends or family whom you know are making such a trip to there places in winters.

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I am Dheeraj Sharma - a traveler, techie, and Himalayan lover. Since 2009, I have been helping thousands of travelers every year plan memorable & budget-friendly trips to the Himalayas - Smartly, Safely, and responsibly.

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Hi Dheeraj, hope you are doing good. Planning for a uttarkhand trip in end of april. Two couples and two kids (9 years and 2.5 years). Is it safe to plan a trip of Delhi-Chopta-Deorotal-Auli-Rishikesh-Delhi in 7 days? Main purpose of adding Auli is for playing in snow, will snow be surely present during end of april? Also heard of mules available for deorotal trek, is it a safe option to take? Is this option also available for Tughnath / Chandrashila trek? Thanks, Sekhar.

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Sekhar, I highly doubt that you will find any snow in Auli in April. Snow in Uttarakhand vanishes by end of March and only a few remains will be present around Chandrashilla. However, with high influx of tourists to these locations for past few years, I doubt even on Chandrashilla you will get snow.

Mules may be available, but Deoriatal is much less hectic than Chandrashilla one. You can get in touch with some guides referenced in the articles of guides of these places above and check with them if they can make mules available. I have personally not seen mules on this treks.

Thank you Dheeraj. Then i will skip auli as it doesñt seem to be worth the long distance. Now iam confused whether to go for uttarkhand or Himachal. I had already been to manali and thirthan valley. What would be your suggestion between kumaon region of uttarkhand vs narkanda and kinnaur for a family trip. We come all the way from Chennai, so snow is surely a special attraction. Sorry for out of thread question.

Hey Sekhar,

In case snow is for sure what you need, you can make a trip to Kinnaur valley for 7 days and expect snow to be there somewhat near Chitkul. Is it possible for your to extend the trip and include Spiti Valley? I mean can you spare 10 days? If not, I will highly recommend Kinnaur Valley including Kalpa, Sangla and chitkul stays.

Thanks for your suggestions. Will check your other thread on Spiti and come back with any questions. To start with, I may have max 9 days. Is it too hectic to do Kinnaur or Spiti with family and kids? in terms of both travel and remoteness?

Sekhar, I will suggest that you just stick with Kinnaur Valley only in that case: Kinnaur Valley – Most Common Itinerary

Thanks Dheeraj. I hope kinnaur is enjoyable with family and kids. I will catch up on the other forum for any further details. Really appreciate your super quick response..

Yes Shekhar, everyone will enjoy a lot Kinnaur is a very beautiful place.

Glad to know that. Again thanks for your valuable insight Dheeraj..

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I am planning for deoria tal-chopta-tungnath-chandrashilla trek with my friends on new year long weekend from 29Dec-2 Jan. Will I be able to find snow at that time . If not, can u suggest me some place where I can find snow on new year.

Manmeet, most likely you will be able to find snow in Chopta during that time of the year. In general it snows but weather have been playing funny things in the last couple of years 😀

You can also read the series: Snowfall Near Delhi | 7 Places to Visit in Himachal

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Hi Dheeraj,

Very nice to see your article. We are 16 people team and planning this trek in March 2018 first week. Can you please brief us about the climate and conditions over there in March month.

Do we have any contact number of there local Guide.

Thanks & regards, Rajesh

Contact number of local guides is already mentioned in the article above or travel guides linked to it. You can, of course, find snow in MArch and conditions will be snow trek to Tunganath top

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Thanks a lot Dheeraj, Very informative and to the point article. very well written. I think I can do this in 3 days in hand with following iternary based on your guidance:- Day 1- Reaching Rishikesh and directly to Chopta, Stay at Chopta Day 2- Early morning trek to Tungnath-Chandershila, Trek back and stay at Chopta again Day 3- Drive to Sari village- Trek to Deorital- Stay at Deorital Day 4- Back journey from Sari to Haridwar to my place

Pls guide me if this is ok. Pls also tell me what are the stay options at Chopta and Deorital as I have to travel solo. And also do I need any guide for these treks? I think, if routes are marked and trek is frequented by villagers and travellers, I may nt need guide. Kindly guide as I have to set out for the journey tomorow morning Thank you and regards Bindiya

Replied you in the forum post.

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Hello Dheeraj

We have seven days 4th June to 11th June How can we explore this places in 7 days.. plz make a 7 days itinerary for us for the same route..

You can refer the article above for a common itinerary for Chopta – Deoriatal – Tunganath. Spend easy time around Chopta, do spend a day at Deoriatal and trek further to Bedmi Bhugyal. You can also add hike to Kartik Swami temple too.

thanks dheeraj 🙂 can u plz compile a list of places near chopta. we are not interested to spend day at rishikesh. as already told u having seven days in hand.

list of day 0 (4th june we start at night 9 pm. will drive whole night) to day 7 (11th june back to delhi)

need a proper itineray from day 1 to day 6 forthe same chopta deriotal route

There isn’t much near Chopta.

Day 1: Reach Deoriatal and crash for the night Day 2: Spend the day at Deoriatal, resting peacefully, may be walks around Day 3: Get down to Chopta and rest for the day Day 4: Do the Tunganath – Chandrashilla trek Day 5: Do the Kartik Swami trek and go over to Khirsu Day 6: Stay at Khirsu Day 7: Return home

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Hi Dheeraj , Great article . I am planning to go there by the starting of jan . Can u tell me the accomodation over there i mean we have to carry tents or we can get tents there , if we have to arrange then from where should i . Thankz

Himanshu, where are you planing? Tunganath? or Deoriatal? IN case you planning to visit Deoriatal, you should be able to get camps running over there. However, for Tunganath I will not suggest camping at night in winters. Also, in case you snow it is highly recommended that you take a guide with you.

Dheeraj ,I am planning to go to chandrashila peak via deoritaal and tunganath .

If you are planning to trek the whole route without coming down, you will need to have a guide and all camping gear with you which can be carried and camped when necessary.

Thankyou Dheeraj . It is really helpful . Can u provide me contact number of any guide ?

You can get in touch with Bharat Puspwan: 09719875326, 09456108780, who is a good guide and local of that region.

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Really gr8 article. I am planning to visit deoriatal, chopta and tungnath on last week of this dec 16 (may be 29 & 30). I will drive from delhi with my Honda City via Khirsu-Rudraprayag-Ukhimath-Chopta and Deoriatal with my family (myself, my wife and 4 years kid). Plz guide me on :

1. Road condition from Khirsu to Rudraprayag. 2. Whether road at Chopta will be open during that period for driving. 3. whether my 4 years kid can trek at deooria tal and tunganath. 4 Any other point you want to suggest.

Regards, Raj

1. Road conditions are pretty much fine barring few sections in between 2. Since, you are going from Rudraprayag, Ukimath side, the road will be open from that side. The road closes from Chamoli side. 3. Well, the trek will be too much of Tunganath for a 4 year old, but Deoriatal is fine.

Regards Dheeraj

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Very well written, going in last weekend,

In your itinerary, Day 4: last two points are should be typo error or you may copy them from other post mistakenly (Shimla-Narkanda).

Thankyou for guiding us.

Best regards, Adnan

Thank you so much Adnan for pointing the correction. Yeah, it seems the template itinerary had a leftover from other post.

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Chopta Tungnath Trek 2024 | Cost, Itinerary, Full Details

Region: Uttarakhand

Base Camp: Sari

Grade: Easy

Distance: 15 km

Min Age: 8+ Years

Meals: Included

Best Season: Nov-Feb

Trek Description

Snow white panoramic view of mountains surrounded by lush green and various types of forest trees, a soothing sunset, more human connection, less digital distraction, a road to moon rock, and chilly mornings that can leave a lasting impression on one’s soul. That’s how we describe the beauty of Chopta Village and Chandrashila Peak. 

Chopta  is majorly famous for  Tungnath temple  which is known as the  world’s highest Shiva temple  located at an altitude of 3,475 m (11,400 ft) and  Chandrashila Peak 3,658 m (12,000 ft). The meaning of Chandrashila is Moon Rock and from there we can see Nanda Devi Peak , Chaukhamba , Neelkantha and other Himalayan ranges.

In spring around March- April the beauty of this place has a unique charm as it is a peak time for Rhododendrons to bloom fully in pink and red colors which is a scenic view along the complete trail. If you are visiting in springtime locals will even give you the experience of fresh rhododendron juice which they prepare organically on their own.

Chopta Chandrashila trek has different charms in different seasons be it winter, summer, and spring.

We will kick start our journey from Rishikesh which is known as the yoga capital of the world. From Rishikesh, we will go to Sari village (192 km driving distance) via Devprayag which is a sangam of the Bhagirathi & Alaknanda rivers. 

Sari village is the base camp for a beautiful Deoria Tal trek and it is away from the hustle and bustle of people and a place for peace lovers.

Deoria Tal  is a 3 km trek from Sari village basecamp it is a beautiful trail surrounded by peach orchards and gives a charming view of terraced fields. Additionally, according to a well-known Mahabharat tale, Yaksha is said to have questioned the powerful Pandavas from Deoria Tal. Locals claim that Bheem of the Pandavaas built this lake to quench his thirst. Yudhister, the smartest of the Pandavas, urged that Bheem build the lake. An amusing fact about this lake is that it doesn’t get frozen in winter, no matter what the temperature is.

Altogether  Deoria Tal & Chandrashila  trek gives a peaceful and highly spiritual & positive vibes and it is one of the soul-soothing treks for all trek lovers. A highly scenic place for all sunset and sunrise lovers, families, couples, and solo travelers. 

Having a local trek guide is like a cherry on the cake for your journey as they provide a more local & authentic experience hence we at Himalayan Dream Treks are a perfect match for you if you are looking for an authentic village, food, culture, and a great local experience.

Are you ready to refresh and recharge your soul? Heal yourself from digital psychological distractions? And give yourself a lifetime of memories? Then join us and create a story for yourself that you will remember rest of your life.

Drive Distance : 192 km

Drive Time : 6-7 hours

Altitude : 6,570 ft

  • Meet us at Yog Nagri Railway Station, Rishikesh and from there we will start our journey to Sari. Our pick up time is usaulayy between 7 am to 8 am.
  • In between you will see Sangam of Alaknanda & Bhagirathi at Devprayag, Srinagar, Dhari Devi Temple, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath.
  • Reach Sari Village in the evening and take a rest.

Trek : 5 km

Time : 5-6 hours

Altitude : 7,840 ft

Altitude Gain and Loss : 1,270 ft

  • Wake up early in the morning if you don’t wanna miss the beautiful sunrise view and get ready for the trek.
  • Have your breakfast, pack your water bottle and essentials then start your trek to Deoria Tal. We will leave for Deoria Tal by 7:30 am with packed lunch.
  • In between you will find Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev temple don’t forget to fold your hands and pray. There also are local shops where you can get lunch/snacks in case you don’t wanna pack your food.
  • After trekking for 2.5 km you will reach Deoria Tal , a small beautiful lake surrounded by green meadows and mountains.
  • From here, mountain peaks like Janhukut , Chaukhamba , and Kedar Dome are perfectly visible.
  • Relax there, enjoy the view, capture moments, and then in the evening reach back to your stay at Sari.

Trek : 10 km

Trek Time : 6-8 hours

Altitude : 12,000 ft

Altitude Gain and Loss : 2,600 ft

  • From Sari drive about 20 km to Chopta village early morning.
  • On this route there are not any local shops in between so pack your lunch, some energy-rich snacks, a water bottle, and trek essentials carefully as the trek is steep and will take more energy.
  • Reach Tungnath temple which is at 11,400 ft altitude and have an amazing feeling.
  • From Tungnath, Chandrashila Peak is about 1.5 km distance and the slope is a bit steep.
  • Finally, reach Chandrashila peak and see the picturesque views of the Himalayan range comprising snow peaks of Nanda Devi , Banderpunch , Kedarnath , Chaukhamba , and Neelkanth on one side, and the Garhwal valley on the opposite side and feel like you are at the top.
  • Feel the moment, Capture memories, laugh out loud, feel a sense of accomplishment, and descend back to Chopta.
  • Reach back to Chopta then drive 20 km back to Sari and rest for the day. By evening 6 PM we will back to Chopta.

Time : 6-7 hours

  • Wake up early in the morning and get fresh up.
  • Have your breakfast, click a group photo, and drive back to Rishikesh.
  • Reach Rishikesh, say bye to your fellow travelers and collect a lifetime of memories.

What’s Included?

Price inclusion.

  • Transportation from Rishikesh to Sari and back to Rishikesh
  • 3 Nights stay in Sari village
  • Meals from day 1 dinner to day 4 breakfast
  • All the required forest and camping permits
  • First Aid Kit

Price Exclusion

  • Meals during the transportation
  • 5% GST is not included
  • Any expenses or items not mentioned in the inclusion section are not covered
  • Any expenses arising from emergencies during the trek
  • Any personal expenses

Things to Carry

  • 40-50 Ltr Bag Pack With Rain Cover & Comfortable Straps
  • Water Bottle
  • Snacks Like Energy Bar, Dry Fruits & ORS
  • Personal Medical Kit
  • At Least 2/3 Full Sleeves (Non-Cotton)
  • 1 Full Fleece T-Shirt
  • 1 Fleece Jacket (Woollen Or Sweater)
  • 1 Down Feather/Hollofil Jacket
  • 1 Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
  • Thermal Inners (Upper And Lower) – 1 Pair
  • 2 Trek Pants (Avoid Shorts & Denim Pants)
  • 1 Pair of Waterproof Gloves
  • 1 Pair of Woollen Gloves
  • Woollen Cap
  • 4 Pairs Of Cotton Socks
  • 1 Pair Of Woollen Socks
  • 2 Pairs Of Sunglasses (U/V Protected)
  • 2 Neck Gaiters (Buff)
  • 1 Waterproof & High Ankle Trekking Shoes
  • 1 Pair Of Floaters
  • Hand Sanitizer & Sunscreen Lotion
  • Toothbrush And Toothpaste
  • Quick Dry Towel
  • Lip Balm & Antibacterial Powder
  • Moisturizer

How To Reach

The nearest airport to Sari Village is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport which is located approximately 25 kilometers from Rishikesh. Several flight operators like Air India, Akasa Air, Vistara, and others operate flights to Dehradun, which makes your transportation easy and comfortable.

It is recommended to book a flight at least a month before traveling since the last moment flight booking is comparatively higher than the standard price. Considering the cost, we recommend you to take flights to Delhi, capital of India first. From there, you can take UTC, HRTC, buses, railway or hire a taxi to reach Dehradun.

You can reach either Haridwar Railway station, Rishikesh Railway station or Dehradun Railway station from your respective places and in Haridwar, Dehradun you will find various buses, tempos, or shared taxis for Rishikesh.

There are direct buses from Delhi to Rishikesh hence if you are coming via Delhi you can opt for a direct bus. Otherwise you can take a bus to Haridwar or Dehradun then local taxis & buses to Rishikesh.

Sari Village is the base camp for Deoria Tal. From Rishikesh, Sari is approximately 192 km. Take bus from ISBT Rishikesh to Rudraprayag which leaves early in the morning. Once you reach Rudraprayag take a taxi to Sari village.

If you plan your journey during the Char Dhaam Yatra season, you may find a direct bus from Rishikesh to Ukhimath.

Note:  Upon arriving in Rishikesh, you will join the Himalayan Dream Treks for the Chopta Tungnath trek. Our team will be there to assist you with transportation arrangements. You will receive the contact information of the Transport Coordinator or our office team one week before your departure. We’ll organize transportation for you, which will be available from either the Rishikesh railway station or the ISBT Rishikesh.

Difficulty Level

Chopta Chandrashila trek is a beginner-level trek with easy to moderate difficulty level. It is not a very long trek and one can cover in a day hence difficulty level is average.

Because of the high altitude (12000 ft), it will require good stamina and healthy energy levels to reach its peak. Overall, it is an easy trek; however, during winters one needs to have proper snow boots as trails are a bit slippery, so having good grip snow boots will provide a smooth experience and much needed safety.

Best Time for this Trek

Mid November – Feb : During this time Chopta is fully covered with snow and a bit difficult due to temperature drops hence we will advise you to prepare well if you are planning to visit in winter. Night temperature drops up to -12 degrees sometimes and daytime it is between 7-11 degrees.

March – April  is the time when you will witness everything at once, sun, rain, snow, and greenery. It is the peak time for rhododendron flowers to bloom and you will find Chandrashila trek trails fully covered with pink and red rhododendron flowers.

However, as you reach Tungnath from there up to Chandrashila Peak you will find heavy snow in a 1 km area up to the peak. Keep snowproof trekking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and nutritious food along with you.

May – June : Greenery all around and snowy peaks will give a bright and vibrant surroundings in summer. Bright sunny days and pleasant wind touching your inner self is so mesmerizing.

Summer is a good time to visit the trek as trails are all dried and no risk of slipping. Keep sunscreen, goggles, water bottles, and energy-rich food/snacks with you.

Mid September – Mid November:  It is post-monsoon time and a pleasant time for trekkers. There will not be any snow at this time and trees are mainly shading their leaves and it is one of the good time to visit this trek as road conditions will be good.

Mid July – September  It is not advisable to visit Chandrashila at this time because of heavy rain, landslides, and bad road conditions. The trail will be slippery and risk of getting injured and natural disaster damage might occur. Other than that, due to mist and clouds, nothing is perfectly visible from Deoria Tal and Chandrashila.

More Info of Chopta Tungnath

Beyond the mountains and scenic beauty, Chopta Chandrashila holds cultural and historical significance as well. According to Hindu Mythology, The Chandrashila Peak is believed to be the spot where Lord Rama meditated after defeating Ravana.

Peaks like Meru, Sumeru, Ganesh Parwat, Chaukhamba, Bandarpunch, Nilkantha, Trisuli, and Nanda Devi are some of the peaks that are visible from Chopta.

There are five Kedar temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Uttarakhand which is known as Panch Kedar. The third of them is the Kedar Tungnath temple . This temple was built thousands of years ago by the Pandavas (Tungnath Mahadev) during the time of Mahabharata. Tungnath temple is the temple of Lord Shiva on the Himalayan hills between the rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini .

Deoriatal is known to be the bathing spot of devas. Additionally, according to a well-known Mahabharat tale, Yaksha is said to have questioned the powerful Pandavas from Deoria Tal. Locals claim that Bheem of the Pandavaas built this lake to quench his thirst. Yudhister, the smartest of the Pandavas, urged that Bheem build the lake.

If you are a religious and adventure lover then the Tungnath temple is a blissful and beautiful place to visit which is full of nature and peace.

The height of the temple is more than 11,400 feet above sea level, and it’s said to be the highest Shiva temple in the world.

Rhododendron Bloom:  During April and May, Chopta and Tungnath Trek are dotted with red, pink, and white Rhododendron flower which is locally known as Buransh .

You can drink fresh organic juice made by locals during your trip and even locals can show you how to make rhododendron juice organically which is great for healing inflammation, and liver ailments, reduces arthritis pain, bronchitis, and grout.

Oak, Maple, and Pine forests:  Trees like, oak, pine, rhododendrons and other Himalayan species occupy major land parts of Chopta. You will see these along the trail as you begin your trek.

Meadows:  Along the trek, you will see the lush green meadows which will give your eyes a mesmerizing view and will make you feel closer to nature and natural beauty.

Musk Deer:  Uttarakhand and its forests are home to Musk Deer. 7 km distance from Chopta there is a Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary which is home to musk deer.

Himalayan Monal Bird:  You will see colorful and charming monal birds along the trail just pay attention carefully to them. It is a lovely multicolored bird that has a pleasant voice.

1) OmkarRatneshwar Mahadev temple in the route of Deoria Tal trek

2) Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath

3) Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary – Encounter The Rare Himalayan Wildlife) is home to various species of flowers and vegetation. It is located 7 km from Chopta, which can be reached through the Chopta-Gopeshwar road

3) Sari Village and it’s village tour

4) Camping in Baniyakund which is a basecamp for the Tungnath trek and 4 km from Chopta

It is situated in Uttarakhand state of India and 206 km from Rishikesh.

Chopta Village and Chopta hill station are two different places in Uttarakhand. Chopta hill station is where the Chandrashilla trek starts and Chopta village is 77 km distance from Chopta hill station.

In summer day the temperature is between 17 to 25 degrees and at night will drop around 3-9 degrees. In winter day time it is around 8-14 degrees and at night around -6 to -10 degrees. In Spring it is around 10-15 degrees at daytime and 1-3 degrees at night.

It is a beginner-level trek hence difficulty level is easy to moderate.

From December to March, you will find heavy snow in Chopta and this is a good time for snow adventures.

It is a perfect starter trek for beginners and has low difficulty levels

Chandrashilla is situated at an altitude of approximately 12,000 feet (3,658 meters) above sea level. While it is not considered high enough for severe altitude sickness, we prioritize safety. We carry a medical kit that includes necessary medicines to ensure everyone’s well-being.

In the Deoria Tal trek, there are few local shops and toilet facilities along the trek but in Chandrashilla there are no toilets between.

In Deoriatal there are shops till the top hence you can charge your devices there but in Chandrashilla there are no charging points in between so it is advisable to carry your own power bank for charging purposes

There are no ATMs in Chopta and the last ATM is in Ukhimath 13km before Sari village so it is advisable to keep the cash amount with yourself.

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Best places to get a panoramic view of Moscow

Moscow-City towers. Source: Getty Images / Legion Media

Moscow-City towers. Source: Getty Images / Legion Media

1. Moscow-City tower

The Empire and the Federation Towers, which are located in the new business centre in the immediate vicinity of the city centre, are part of the tallest complex of buildings in Russia’s capital. Standing on the high-altitude terraces of Moscow- City you can enjoy truly inspiring views of the Moscow River and the western part of the city.

The Sixty Restaurant - Bar (the name refers to the interior, which has been executed just like in the 1960s) on the 62 floor of the Federation tower, which makes it the highest restaurant in Europe. The average bill is around 4000 roubles /$140.

tungnath trek view

The Sixty Restaurant. Source: Bar / Press Photo

You can enjoy views of the city from a bird's eye view free of charge too – you will just have to reach (on an express elevator) the new terrace of the Empire Tower (which is on the 58 floor), located at an altitude of 238 metres.

2, Presnenskaya Quay .

  2. The Vorobyevy Gory and the main Moscow State University building

One of the most popular postcard views of Moscow is from the observation deck of Vorobyevy Gory (Vorobyevy Gory or University metro station). The landscape is especially beautiful on a clear day and late at night when the city lights are turned on. The capital can be seen as if it were in your hands; this is definitely the best place for gazing at the seven Stalin skyscrapers – the famous “Seven Sisters”. From the upper floors of the Moscow State University main building, you can take in an even more breathtaking panorama.

tungnath trek view

The main Moscow State University building. Source: Lori Images / Legion Media

You can enter the Moscow State University  terrace if you sign up here – 8 (495) 939 2976.

3. Time Out Bar

A bar with rather affordable prices (an average bill of 1000 roubles /$35) and a terrace with simply stunning views of Moscow. Time Out Bar is located on the 12th and 13th floor of Hotel Peking in the heart of the capital (Mayakovskaya, Triumph Square metro stations.) This is one of my favourite places, which can be found in Moscow skyscrapers; here bartenders prefer making signature cocktails.

tungnath trek view

Time Out Bar. Source: Press Photo

5, Bolshaya Sadovaya Street . Open from 12:00 pm to 6:00 am.

4. City Space – a panoramic bar

City Space is the highest bar with a 360-degree view of the capital. It is located on the 34th floor of the Swiss Hotel Red Hills, and according to the 2008 Bartender's Guide, it was included in the top 10 bars in the world, and the top 50 best bars in the world by Drink International 2011. The price of one cocktail is around 900 roubles/$30, a must drink for the capital guests is the legendary Moscow Spring Punch with ginger, raspberry and honey.

52/6 Kosmodamianskaya embankment , Paveletskaya metro station.

5. Ivan the Great Bell Tower

You can have the possibility of seeing old Moscow from a bird’s eye view if you go up to the 80-metre bell tower of Ivan the Great – “the capital’s first skyscraper” which was built in the 16th century. The belfry is located in the heart of the city – right in the Cathedral Square, (it is adjacent to the Red Square). The exhibition is open to visitors and there is also an observation deck, which offers a wonderful view of the Kremlin's Cathedral Square and the old streets of Zamoskvorechye. You can enter with a ticket from the Kremlin Museums.

tungnath trek view

Ivan the Great Bell Tower. Source: Lori Images / Legion Media

You can enjoy the view from above with a cup of coffee, which you can get close by – on the rooftop of the Ritz Carlton, where there is a cozy 02 Lounge, which offers an unforgettable view of the Kremlin. The average bill is approximately 2500 roubles/$80.

3, Tverskaya Street . Ritz Carlton, 11th floor.

5. The Ostankino Television Tower

The Ostankino Television Tower observation deck has been open to visitors for over 40 years. During this time it has been visited by over 10 million people – from a height of 340 metres you can take a look at northern Moscow and the Moscow region. You can get to the site only as a part of a tour and preferably having booked in advance.

tungnath trek view

The Ostankino Television Tower. Source: Lori Images / Legion Media

Duration of the tour is 1 hour, the tower is open to the public from 10.00 am to 21.00 pm. Pre-registration can be done by phone 8 (495) 926-61-11, it will cost 980 roubles ($28).

15/2, Akademika Koroleva street , Alekseevskaya metro station.

7. Kalina bar

Located on the 21st floor of the Lotte Plaza on Novy Arbat, Kalina Bar offers visitors a panoramic view of the Moscow City towers, Hotel Ukraine, Old Arbat street, Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, and many other monuments in the city centre. Besides this it offers great Western and Asian cuisine with a bill of approximately 2,000 roubles /$70.

8, Novinsky Boulevard . Lotte Plaza, 21 floor. 

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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Moskva-Class Cruisers

Separate design teams often attempt to meet a set of ship specifications with completely different, although equally valid, strategies. To fulfill the requirements issued in April 2169 for the successor (NX-223) to the Daedalus class, which was introduced at the end of the Romulan War, Prosser & Ankopitch proposed a ship with an extremely large, spherical command hull attached to a nearly vestigial engineering hull. The proposal from the Mikoyan-Tupolev-Dassault Bureau used a long narrow command hull with a minimal frontal silhouette counterbalanced by an equally long engineering hull.

The engineers at Tezuka-Republic decided that the division of ship's functions between a command/crew hull and an engineering hull was arbitrary and unnecessarily restricted design options. Therefore, rather than gathering all the specified facilities in a single hull, their design TR-223A spread them across two hulls, as in Daedalus , and segregated the SSWR-IV-C warp core to a "bustle" at the extreme aft end of the secondary hull. This bustle could be separated easily and quickly from the rest of the engineering hull in the event of a warp core breach. The now-unpowered warp nacelles would then be shed. In this way, the demands of safety would be met without warp dynamics being degraded either by an excessively large frontal silhouette or by longitudinal warp field imbalance.

Although the Ship Specifications Review Board praised Tezuka-Republic for its creative solution to the problem of admittedly contradictory requirements for extreme safety and improved warp performance, they were forced to disqualify design TR-223A for not precisely meeting contract specifications. Therefore, in October 2171, construction contract NX-223 for Starfleet's new cruiser was awarded to Prosser & Ankopitch for what would become the Wasp class .

However, almost no one was happy with the new Wasp ships. Even before the contract was awarded, voices within Starfleet and within industry had strongly criticized the specifications of April 2169. These critics charged that they would lead to a mediocre, albeit safe, fighting ship. Two separate classes were needed, not a single class that was neither a proper explorer nor a proper warship. When Wasp was finally launched in 2173, her performance during precommisioning trials clearly showed that the critics had been correct. Although the performance problems were related in part to the continuing unavailability of the more powerful Tezuka-Republic Hiryu ("Flying Dragon") mark III warp nacelles, Wasp was obviously not the ship Starfleet had hoped for.

In a second attempt to obtain a reliable and capable warship, new specifications (NX-374) were issued in September 2175, little more than a year after USS  Wasp had entered service. Adding to this sense of urgency were intelligence reports suggesting that the Romulans had either developed or otherwise acquired matter/antimatter (M/AM) reactors. This time the specifications put less emphasis upon safety. The original requirement for completely separate command and engineering hulls was eliminated; instead, any hull configuration was allowed as long as the warp core could be quickly separated from the rest of the ship. Furthermore, requirements for speed, acceleration, and maneuverability both under impulse power and under warp power were increased, as were performance levels for target acquisition, tracking, and servicing.

These new specifications were a clear, albeit belated, admission that the critics had been correct all along: one class could not be expected to serve as both an explorer and a main battleship. In fact, starship technology was not considered sufficiently mature for a single ship to adequately fulfill both mission profiles until 2245, when the Constitution -class heavy cruiser was launched. (The controversy continues even today in the wake of the problems of the Galaxy -class explorer.)

Luckily, the designers and engineers at Tezuka-Republic had not been idle since their disappointing loss of the Wasp contract in 2171. Instead, they had spent their time refining design TR-223A so that their new entry (TR-374A) was markedly superior to what had been submitted 5 years earlier. In particular, the new SSWR-V warp reactor allowed the bustle to be made smaller, lighter, and even more easily separable. Therefore, it was hardly surprising when in November 2176 Tezuka-Republic was awarded the production contract over designs from Shimata-Dominquez, Prosser & Ankopitch, Mikoyan-Tupolev Dassault, Monarch R&U, and Thornycroft/Ebisu for what was to become the Moskva class.

However, engineering prowess may not have been the only factor in Tezuka-Republic's winning of the contract. There were accusations that the delay in delivery of the Hiryu warp engines was an attempt by Tezuka-Republic to prevent Wasp from reaching her designed performance levels. While no conclusive incriminating evidence has come to light, the delivery of the long-awaited engines shortly before the scheduled launch of Moskva in December 2177 is certainly suspicious. Tezuka-Republic maintains that if their submission of 2169 had been selected, its performance would also have not have met design specifications without the Hiryu engines. However, critics charge that TR-223A was not as reliant as Wasp on the type of engine used. Furthermore, once the Wasp contract was awarded, and even after Wasp was launched, Tezuka-Republic certainly made no efforts to accelerate delivery of Hiryu.

These controversies were soon rendered moot as the new Moskva class was recognized as a significant advance in starship design. The most important new feature was Moskva's discoid primary hull. Earlier designs had chosen a spherical primary hull for reasons of economy. Simple geometric relationships dictate that a spherical hull has the smallest surface area for a given volume. Therefore, construction costs are lower and shields are more efficient. Furthermore, institutional inertia had led nearly all exploratory cruisers originating until that time from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the United States Astronautics Agency, the United Earth Space Probe Agency, and its successor organizations to have spherical hulls.

tungnath trek view

The designers of USS  Moskva employed a biconvex disc for several reasons. Their initial motive was to increase hull volume while minimizing both frontal and lateral silhouettes. A warship with large frontal and lateral silhouettes would be at a greater disadvantage in most tactical situations than would be a ship with an increased superior silhouette. However, the discoid hull allowed the traditional radial layout of command hulls to be retained.

More important than these tactical advantages were functional advantages. As was shown with the Wasp class, warp field geometry would have been awkward if a spherical hull with its relatively large frontal area had been used. The discoid hull was also found to channel warp field flow across its upper surface towards the bussard ram scoops of the warp nacelles. This channeling effect improved field efficiency at all power levels and speeds. As the understanding of warp field mechanics was refined, the trend towards saucer-shaped primary hulls would be intensified in later Starfleet vessels.

tungnath trek view

In most respects, the Moskva class continued design and engineering trends established in the Comet and Daedalus classes introduced at the end of the Romulan War. As in these classes, ship functions were clearly divided between a command/crew hull and an engineering/propulsion hull. The bridge was returned to its customary position atop the command hull and the shuttlecraft bay was again placed in the secondary hull. The fusion reactor was centered along the longitudinal axis of the ship, and impulse thrust ports exited immediately in front of the warp bustle detachment seam.

Weaponry was the then-standard mix of fusion-warhead missiles and lasers. New to this class was an early type of ultraphased pulse laser cannon, two of which were mounted in the chin of the primary hull. Although the on-target energy output of this new weapon approached that of early phasers, its power requirement was higher and its range was substantially less. However, subsequent refinements lead to steady improvement and, ultimately, to the development of true phasers in 2202. Although Moskva -class ships were the first to be fitted with phasers in 2204, lasers were still carried by the Moskva class and later classes until the 2220s. Finally, warp capability was supplied by the long-awaited Hiryu mark III drive units.

The first ship of the new class, USS  Moskva (NCC-374), entered service with Starfleet in April 2179. An additional 30 ships (NCC-375 to NCC-404) joined the fleet through 2183. Moskva -class ships gained immediate popularity with officers and crews. First, total laser firepower was increased some 75% over that in the preceding Wasp class. Second, because the ship's mass was more equally distributed along the longitudinal axis than in the Wasp class, Moskva was significantly more maneuverable at both sublight and warp speeds. Finally, the more warp-dynamic design allowed greater cruising and maximum speeds.

The Moskva class had an outstanding safety record. No ships were lost because of mechanical failures. However, an incident occurred aboard USS  Johannesburg in 2186 when a faulty nacelle flow monitor falsely indicated a runaway positive feedback power loop within the plasma flow governor. Believing that a catastrophic warp core explosion was imminent, Chief Engineer Roberta Bocharnikov ordered the warp nacelles and warp bustle to be separated. Although unnecessary, these maneuvers were successful in causing the separated warp core to initiate its automatic shut-down routine. The warp core, nacelles, and the rest of the ship were towed to Starbase 13, where they were successfully re-mated. Despite her supreme embarrassment, Bocharnikov oversaw the reassembly and relaunching of Johannesburg and retained her position as chief engineer.

Although most ships of the Moskva class had left front-line service by 2215, some continued to serve as auxiliaries and training vessels until the 2240s. After retirement from active duty, Moskva -class ships were used as testbeds for many emerging technologies owing to the similarities of their layouts to those of succeeding classes. USS  Moskva was the site of the first successful ship-to-surface transport of a Human being in 2206, and USS  Gato was the first ship to fire photon torpedoes in 2214. In addition, Taurus -class tugs, which entered service in 2182, and Sanford -class repair tenders, which entered service in 2185, were derived from the Moskva class and used the same primary hull and warp drive assembly.

The Moskva -class cruiser USS  Aurora (NCC-377), a participant of the Battle of Eohippus IV, is on display at the Starfleet Museum.

Standard displacement: 67,750 t

Crew complement: 160 (27 officers + 133 crew) Weapons: 8 Type VI laser turrets (8 × 1 mounts), 2 Type VII laser cannons (fixed mounts), 2 missile launchers with 36 Spartak missiles Embarked craft: 4 medium cargo/personnel shuttlecraft, 2 light personnel shuttlecraft, 5 fighter/scouts Warp drive: SSWR-V-A spherical cavity M/AM reactor with 2 Hiryu III nacelles Velocity: wf 4.0, cruise; wf 5.0, supercruise; wf 5.2, maximum Units commissioned: 31

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Discovery Will Be the First Star Trek Show in 50 Years to End Without a Jonathan Frakes Appearance

At least he's been behind the camera plenty enough over its five seasons, which is at least an honorary frakes appearance..

Image for article titled Discovery Will Be the First Star Trek Show in 50 Years to End Without a Jonathan Frakes Appearance

When you think of the most important people in Star Trek history, in terms of actors at least you might look to the legacies of people like William Shatner or Patrick Stewart. But the real answer to that question is probably Jonathan Frakes , who has been a part of pretty much all televised Trek since the ‘70s — and when Discovery ends in a few months, it’ll break the trend of his influence, at least in front of the camera.

Since starring as William T. Riker in The Next Generation , Frakes has made a guest appearance in almost every Star Trek series since, either as Riker or a facsimile of him, or his villainous transporter clone brother Thomas (responsible for the greatest fake beard reveal in television history, thanks to Deep Space Nine ). Just three series have gone without an on-screen Frakes appearance so far— Discovery , Prodigy , and Strange New Worlds —and now we know at least one of them never will.

When asked by Den of Geek at a recent appearance during SXSW whether or not Frakes would make an on-screen appearance in Discovery ’s final season, co-creator and producer Alex Kurtzman offered a very resoundingly flat “No.” It’s not surprising considering that, as Discovery is now so far into Star Trek ’s future, Riker is extremely dead at this point. At least it will always have a special connection to Frakes through his role as a similarly consistent Trek director—Frakes has been regularly directing episodes of Discovery since its first season, and will direct the penultimate episode of the show in season five. But it does indeed mean the end to a decades-long trend of making Frakes one of the most consistent Trek actors in the franchise history, and there’s something oddly sad about that.

Prodigy and Strange New Worlds both still have time to have their own Frakes appearances— Prodigy is set in 2385, while Riker was still in active service even after the birth of his son Thaddeus, for whom he would step back from active duty to try and help treat when he was diagnosed with mendaxic neurosclerosis in the run-up to the events of Star Trek: Picard . Strange New Worlds (which like Discovery has a Frakes connection through directing ; he shot the show’s fantastic crossover with Lower Decks , “ Those Old Scientists ”) being pre-original Trek would make a Riker appearance very difficult, but Frakes could still play some role, whether it’s an ancestor or an entirely new character.

We’ll have to wait and see—and behold what Frakes cooks up as his parting gift for Discovery— when season five begins streaming on April 4 .

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel , Star Wars , and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV , and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who .

IMAGES

  1. Tungnath Temple Trek

    tungnath trek view

  2. Chopta Tungnath Trek

    tungnath trek view

  3. Tungnath Mahadev

    tungnath trek view

  4. Tungnath: A great trek in Uttarakhand for beginners

    tungnath trek view

  5. Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

    tungnath trek view

  6. Tungnath: A great trek in Uttarakhand for beginners

    tungnath trek view

VIDEO

  1. tungnath Trek #shorts #short #shortvideo

  2. Tungnath Trek December 2023

  3. Tungnath trek view

  4. Tungnath trek #tungnath #trekking #trip #trek

  5. Tungnath way Uttrakhand view 💓💓🌈🌈🌹❤️❤️

  6. Tungnath Chopta Trek on 26th Feb 2024 #tungnath #tungnathtrekking #tungnathmahadev

COMMENTS

  1. Tungnath Temple Trek Route, WinterTravel Tips

    Tungnath Temple Trek. This highest temple of Lord Shiva is an ironically easiest one to achieve. Tungnath Temple can be reached by a moderately easy trek of 3.5km commencing from Chopta (2700mts). The region receives heavy snowfall during winters making Tungnath temple tough to access. The altitude of Tungnath Temple is approx 3600 mts.

  2. Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek Route, Itinerary & Guide

    I am talking about the Tungnath Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek in Uttarakhand. While Tungnath is one of the Panch (five) Kedars, Deoriatal Chandrashila trek undoubtedly offers one of the best views of the Uttarakhand mountain ranges. From the Chandrashila summit, you get a stunning view of almost all the major summits of eastern and western ...

  3. Tungnath

    Chopta to Tungnath - 4 km. Tungnath to Chandrashila - 1.5 km. From Chopta to Tungnath, it is gradual yet easy ascent. The path is paved and straight forward. After Tungnath, the paved path ends and gives way to a broken trail. It is slightly steeper and a little more challenging. If you start early, you can easily return to Chopta by the ...

  4. Tungnath Temple Trek, Uttarakhand: the Ultimate Guide

    The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is all about a gradual climb, and it will serve you amazing views of the Himalayas. The difficulty level is easy, and it is also recommended for first-time trekkers. After a climb of around 1.5 kilometers from the base, you can get a view of the long and stretched grass fields.

  5. Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

    Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. For a brief overview, the Chopta - Tungnath - Chandrashila trek is a 5.5 kilometers long trail that starts from Chopta and ends at the top of Chandrashila peak. The distance between Chopta to Tungnath is about 4 kilometers and 1.5 kilometers between Tungnath to Chandrashila. Maximum Altitude: 13,123 feet.

  6. Tungnath & Deoria Tal Trek

    The Tungnath and Deoriatal Trek is a popular trekking route in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It offers a combination of natural beauty, panoramic views, and cultural significance. Here is a brief overview of the trek: Trek Duration: The trek usually takes around 4-5 days to complete. Trek Difficulty: The Tungnath and Deoriatal Trek is ...

  7. A Detailed Travel Guide for Chopta, Tungnath, Chandrashila Trek

    Tungnath Temple towers above the Himalayas as seen from this vantage point. Best Timing for Views : With regards to the best views on the Tungnath - Chandrashila trek, it is possible that after reaching Chopta by around 3 in the afternoon, you start trekking towards Tungnath. Within 45 minutes, the path reaches a lush green meadow flanked by ...

  8. Tungnath: Trek To The Highest Temple Of Lord Shiva

    Tungnath Summit: Chandrashila Peak. Chandrashila meaning the "moonrock" is the summit or the endpoint for the Tungnath Mahadev Trek. Chandrashila peak is at the alluring height of 13,000 ft above the sea level. Chandrashila has many legends associated with it. According to one legend, Lord Rama after defeating Ravana meditated at this peak.

  9. Tungnath

    The trek to Tungnath takes you through rocky terrains, lush meadows, and rhododendron bushes, treating you to stunning views of nature. The sight of the grand Himalayas along the way uplifts the spirits of trekkers. Trek offers clear views of numerous named and unnamed peaks of the majestic Himalayan range. Mythology about Tungnath

  10. A Complete Guide for Chopta, Deoriatal, Tungnath & Chandrashila Trek

    Temple at Chandrashila Peak View from Chandrashila peak Deoriatal. A scenic lake settled at 2400 m just above the Sari village which is around 20 km from Chopta. It is surrounded by lush greenery and snowcapped mountains. ... Chopta to Tungnath & Chandrashila Trek: The trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila starts from the main road at Chopta. Take ...

  11. CHOPTA TUNGNATH TREK: A Complete Guide

    About Chopta Tungnath Trek: Chopta Tungnath trek is one of the highlights of the circuit where the trek route surpasses the 1000+years old SHIVA TEMPLE.Sharp ascent and steep climb lead you to tungnath temple at 12000feet.Distance from chopta is 3-4 kms. Tungnath temple is difficult to reach during the winter due to considerable snowfall in the area.

  12. Chopta Tungnath Trek: Everything You Need To Know

    Tungnath. Home to the world's highest Shiva Temple, this location has got an altitude of about 3680m in total. So, once you are high up there, you can enjoy the entire view of the area from above. Apart from all these beauties, Tungnath is known as one of the names of the Panch Kedar shrines that are in Uttarakhand.

  13. Tungnath Trek

    Scenic Splendor: The trek to Tungnath is a visual delight, guiding you through dense forests, vibrant meadows, and rugged trails. In spring and summer, the landscape bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances. Challenging Yet Rewarding: While the trek presents challenges, the reward at the summit is unparalleled. The view from Tungnath Temple and further to Chandrashila is a ...

  14. Tungnath Rudranath Trek

    The Tungnath Rudranath Trek is a popular trekking route in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas. This trek takes you through stunning landscapes, dense forests, and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. The trek begins with a walk from Chopta to Mandal, which is a small village nestled in ...

  15. Tungnath Trek In 2023: When Is The Best Time To Visit The Temple?

    The best time for Tungnath trek is when the temple is open in the month of May (summer) and the deity of Lord Tungnath is taken from Mukumath to Tungnath temple. You can also trek during the winters from Jan and March to make the journey more exciting. The weather during the summers is quite pleasant in the Himalayas where the temperature ...

  16. Your complete guide to Chopta-Tungnath Trek in Uttarakhand

    Duration: The Chopta Tungnath Trek takes around 4 to 5 days to complete. 3. Difficulty level : It's a moderate difficulty trek, suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers.

  17. Tungnath Trek Distance: A Complete Guide for Hikers, 2023

    The Tungnath Trek is a journey that covers a distance of about 4.5 kilometres, approximately the same as 2.8 miles. This path takes you from where you start to the unique Tungnath temple that holds great significance. People who love trekking can pick different ways to get to this important place of worship.

  18. Tungnath

    Chandrashilla, at an altitude of 4000 Mtrs, is the highest point of the mountain on which Chopta is situated. It offers 270-degree views of the Chaukhamnba range. It lies 1.5 km further of Tungnath Temple which makes it a 5 km trek from Chopta. Chopta is situated at an altitude of 2600 Mtrs in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand.

  19. Chopta Tungnath Trek 2024

    Trek: 5 km. Time: 5-6 hours. Altitude: 7,840 ft. Altitude Gain and Loss: 1,270 ft . Wake up early in the morning if you don't wanna miss the beautiful sunrise view and get ready for the trek. Have your breakfast, pack your water bottle and essentials then start your trek to Deoria Tal. We will leave for Deoria Tal by 7:30 am with packed lunch.

  20. Best places to get a panoramic view of Moscow

    7. Kalina bar. Located on the 21st floor of the Lotte Plaza on Novy Arbat, Kalina Bar offers visitors a panoramic view of the Moscow City towers, Hotel Ukraine, Old Arbat street, Cathedral of ...

  21. The Starfleet Museum

    The first ship of the new class, USS Moskva (NCC-374), entered service with Starfleet in April 2179. An additional 30 ships (NCC-375 to NCC-404) joined the fleet through 2183. Moskva -class ships gained immediate popularity with officers and crews. First, total laser firepower was increased some 75% over that in the preceding Wasp class.

  22. Cockpit view landing at Moscow Sheremetyevo

    ILS 25R at Sheremetyevo airport in mid-September with an A320.Rain, turbulence, fluctuating glide path, you name it !

  23. Ilyushin IL-96 Cockpit view Night Landing at Moscow ...

    Russian Old Airplane Ilyushin IL-96Landing at Sheremetievo AirportCrew Cockpit view

  24. Discovery Will Be the First Star Trek Show in 50 Years to End ...

    But the real answer to that question is probably Jonathan Frakes, who has been a part of pretty much all televised Trek since the '70s — and when Discovery ends in a few months, it'll break ...