Tungnath & Chandrashila Trek From Delhi

Published on December 15, 2024

Overview Of Tungnath & Chandrashila Trek From Delhi 

Tungnath: Tungnath Temple is one of the world's highest Shiva temples and the highest of the five Panch Kedar temples located in the Rudraprayag district, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The Tungnath mountains form the Mandakini and Alaknanda river valleys. It is located at an altitude of 3,680 m (12,073 ft), just below the Chandrashila peak.

The priest at this temple is a local Brahmin from Makkumath village, unlike the other Kedar temples where the priests are from South India, a tradition set by the eighth-century Hindu seer Adi Shankara. It is also said that the Maithani Brahmins of Makkumath Village officiate as priests at this temple. During the winter season, the temple is closed and the symbolic image of the deity and the temple priests are moved to Markandeshwar Temple in Makkumath village, which is 29km from here. It is near Duggalbitha 10 km before Chopta towards Ukhimath. The climate is generally cool throughout the year. Summers are pleasant with average temperature hovering around 16 degrees Celsius during the day. Winters are very chilly and the temperature drops below the freezing point very frequently. The best time to visit the temple is from April to September. Due to heavy snowfall, the Tungnath Temple remains closed for around six months during winter.

Tungnath Temple Trek: The 5 km (3.1 mi) trek starts from Chopta (9,600 ft), the nearest place on the NH 58. Chopta is 23.9 km from Rudraprayag towards Karnaprayag and is reached from Rishikesh via Devprayag, Srinagar and Rudraprayag.
Of all the Panch Kedar trek routes, the route to Tungnath is the shortest: only 5 km from Chopta (on the Ukhimath-Gopeshwar road) that can be covered in approximately 4–5 hours (depending on the trekker's physical ability).

Trek is a steep climb (9,600–11,350 ft), the trek path is stone paved with benches provided route at intervals. The path is surrounded by scenic views and captivating flora and fauna on both sides. Generally, the pilgrimage to Tunganath is undertaken as part of the Panch Kedar trekking covering all five temples over a 170 km route (road cum trek length) starting from Rishikesh in the order of Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheswar and Kalpeshwar.

The few pilgrims who undertake this trekking pilgrimage to the shrine do so in the summer months (end of April or early May to October) as the temple remains snow-bound and unapproachable. During this period even Chopta, the nearest road head remains deserted. However, it is said that few adepts come to the area during the winter avoiding the pilgrims. The steep climb to Chandrashila is for 2 km.
 

Chopta: The Perfect Destination

Chopta is a small region of meadows and evergreen forest area, a part of the Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary located in Uttarakhand state, India and a base for trekking to Tungnath, the third temple of Panch Kedar which lies 3.5 kilometres away. Located at a distance of 1.5 kilometres (0.93 mi) from Tungnath is Chandrashila, a summit rising to over 4,000 metres (13,000 ft).

Chopta is an unspoiled natural destination lying in the lap of the Uttarakhand Himalayas and offers views of the imposing Himalayan range including Trishul, Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. It is located at an elevation of 2,709 metres (8,888 ft) above sea level. Chopta village is surrounded by forests of pine, deodar and rhododendron and is rich in flora and fauna including rare species of birds and musk deer. This place is popularly known as 'Mini Switzerland'. It lies 45 km from Ukhimath, 162 kilometres from Rishikesh and approximately 450 kilometres from the capital Delhi. The best time to visit this hillside is from April to November.

Chopta is also a popular destination during the winter months due to the snowfall that the area experiences. Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila are covered with snow from December to March. Chopta can be reached from Rishikesh via Rudraprayag, Kund, and Ukhimath or Rudraprayag, Karnprayag, Chamoli, Gopeshwar, and Mandal. Chopta is simply accessible as it is situated on the road connecting Gopeshwar with Guptkashi. Wake up with a cool healthy breeze and chirping of birds in Chopta. The morning view from Chopta is invigorating when the crimson rays of the sun kiss the snow-laden Himalayas.

Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

The Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek is a destinations for trekkers. The Chopta region has many treks and trails cutting through jungles and grasslands. Chandrashilla, Tunganath and Devariyatal are the best-known trekking routes in the Chopta region. Because of the abundance of birds, Chopta is popular among birdwatchers.
Some activities in Chopta
Camping and trekking, yoga, survival activity
Snow trekking, snow skiing
Rock craft, rock climbing, rappelling

Chopta Tungnath Trek

The Chopta Tungnath Trek is a popular trekking destination in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. It is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and takes trekkers to the world's highest Shiva temple, the Tungnath Temple, which is 3680 metres above sea level.
The trek begins at Chopta, a small village located at an altitude of 2680 metres.

The trek to Tungnath is about 4 km long and takes 3-4 hours to complete. The trail is easy to navigate and takes trekkers through beautiful rhododendrons and oak forests.
After reaching Tungnath, trekkers can continue their journey to Chandrashila, a popular viewpoint located at 4000 metres.
If you are looking for a trekking adventure that will take you through lush green forests, serene valleys, and awe-inspiring mountains, then the Chopta Tungnath Trek is the perfect destination.

Chandrashila is the summit above Tungnath temple in India. It means "Moon Rock". It is located at a height of about 3,690 metres (12,110 ft) above sea level. This peak provides views of the Himalayas, including Nandadevi, Trisul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch and Chaukhamba peaks. There are various legends associated with this place. According to one such legend, this is where Rama meditated after defeating the demon king Ravana. Another legend says that the moon-god Chandra spent time here in penance.

Chandrashila Trek is one of the most popular treks among Indian trekking enthusiasts. The trek to the peak is 5 km. The trek begins from Chopta to Tungnath (the highest Shiva temple in the world), which is a 3.5 km long trek route, from here, Chandrashila is 1.5 kilometres away and has a steep trek. Though shorter in distance steep climbing makes this trek rigorous.

This trek is undertaken throughout the year although during the winter season due to snowfall, this trek becomes hard as the road to Chopta is closed. Trekkers use a different route during this period (Deoria Tal - Duggalbitta - Tungnath - Chandrashila).

 

Chopta Chandrashila Trek from Delhi

About the trek: Head out for a fascinating trek expedition to Chandrashila, the summit of Tungnath, which is prominently known as a famous tourist attraction for high-altitude trek lovers. It is located at a height of about 4,000 meters above sea level. Spot the spellbinding glimpses of Nandadevi, Trisul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch, and Chaukhamba peaks, the views of which are going to be your rewards for the hike. Discover the laid-back side of the Himalayas while trekking through the lush jungles and snow-capped mountains.

Make your way through the forests with snowy paths and discover rich flora and fauna until you reach the destination at an altitude of 13,000 feet. On arriving at Chopta - a picturesque and unexplored destination, famous as 'Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand', you are surely going to reconnect with nature and soothe your senses completely. Later, proceed towards Chandrashila - the 'Moon Rock' summit of the Tungnath.
 

 

Chandrashila Summit Trek

The Chandrashila Summit Trek is challenging in the Garhwal Himalayan range of Uttarakhand, India. The trek takes you from the village of Chopta to the Chandrashila summit, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. Take precautions to avoid altitude sickness. Carry enough water to stay hydrated. Reach Rishikesh a day before to avoid delays.

Frequently asked questions about the Chopta Tungnath trek in Uttarakhand, India:

Difficulty
The trek is considered moderately difficult and suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. 

Distance
The trek from Chopta to Tungnath temple is about 3.5 kilometres (2.1 miles). 

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

The best time to visit
The best time to visit Tungnath is from April to November. The town is in full bloom during the summer, and the peaks are covered with pine, deodar, and rhododendrons. 

Weather
In the summer, the temperature during the day is between 17 to 25 degrees and at night it drops around 3-9 degrees. 

Snow
Heavy snow falls in Chopta from December to March, making it a good time for snow adventures. 

Registration
Registration is mandatory for every Char Dham and Hemkund Sahib Pilgrim. 

Places to visit
Some places to visit near Chopta include Devariya Tal, Chandrashila, Ukhimath Temple, Atri Muni Fall, Ansuya Mata Temple, Gopinath Temple, and the Shiva Temple in Guptkashi.

Is there any oxygen problem in Tungnath?
Easy track but oxygen level is a little bit low. It's an easy track and can be achieved with little effort. The temple is old and small but beautiful View from here is great. After Tungnath one must visit Chandrashila, the view and feeling from the top are just amazing.

 

Tunganath Trek FAQs

1. Where is the Tungnath Trek located?
The Tungnath Trek is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. The trek starts from Chopta and takes you to Tungnath Temple, situated at an altitude of about 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), making it the highest Shiva temple in the world.

2. What is the difficulty level of the Tungnath Trek?
The Tungnath Trek is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty. The trail involves a gradual ascent with steep sections near the temple.

3. How long is the Tungnath Trek?
The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is about 3.5 km one-way, with a total trekking distance of around 7 km for a round trip. It typically takes 4 to 6 hours to complete the round trip, depending on your pace and acclimatization.

4. What is the best time to do the Tungnath Trek?
The best time to trek Tungnath is during the summer months (May to June) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and excellent views. Winter (December to February) brings snow, making the trek more challenging, while the monsoon (July to August) is best avoided due to slippery trails and the risk of landslides.

5. What are the highlights of the Tungnath Trek?
Tungnath Temple: The trek takes you to the ancient and highest Shiva temple.
Panoramic Views: Spectacular views of the Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and other Himalayan peaks.
Beautiful Meadows: Chopta, the base of the trek, is often referred to as “Mini Switzerland” due to its lush green meadows and vibrant landscapes.
Tungnath and Chandrashila Peak: After visiting the temple, you can continue your trek to Chandrashila Peak, which offers even more breathtaking views.
6. Is acclimatization necessary for the Tungnath Trek?
While the altitude is relatively moderate (compared to other Himalayan treks), it’s still important to take it slow and stay hydrated. If you’re coming from a lower altitude, some basic acclimatization might help, especially if you plan to go further to Chandrashila Peak (4,000 meters).

7. Do I need a guide for the Tungnath Trek?
The trail to Tungnath Temple is well-marked and relatively straightforward, so you may not need a guide if you’re experienced.

8. What should I pack for the Tungnath Trek?
Essential items to pack include:
Trekking shoes (comfortable and waterproof)
Warm clothing (even in summer, temperatures can drop)
Rain gear (waterproof jacket/poncho)
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
A first-aid kit and personal medications
Water bottles and a water filter or purification tablets

9. How do I reach the starting point of the Tungnath Trek?
The starting point of the trek is Chopta, which is accessible from Rishikesh or Haridwar. You can drive from Rishikesh (around 6-7 hours) to Sari Village, which is about 7 km away from Chopta. From Sari Village, you can hire a jeep or continue the journey by foot to Chopta.

10. Are there any accommodation options near Tungnath?
Chopta has basic accommodation options, including guesthouses, tented camps, and local homestays. During the peak season, you can find plenty of options, but it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during weekends or festivals. There are no hotels or accommodations directly at Tungnath Temple, so most trekkers return to Chopta or stay in camps.

 

 

FAQs for Chopta

Best time to visit Chopta
Chopta is an absolute destination and a hill station which can be visited any time of the year. If you wish to visit the sacred Tungnath Temple then visit from April to November, otherwise you find the temple closed.

The best time to travel to Chopta is in summer (June) and winter (September – March). In addition, the greenery is its full bloom from September to October and one can easily view the panoramic sight of the Himalayas except July & August. Although the weather remains cool throughout the year, nights can be a little chilly.

Is it safe to travel to Chopta?
Yes, Chopta is Safe for all Tourists because all Local Garhwali people are very humble and the crime rate in Chopta is negligible. From per Geographical angle, Chopta is safe for trekking even in winter as it is an avalanche-free zone.

Other destinations around Chopta to explore
Chopta is the best hill station with many options like camping, trekking, adventure activities, bird watching etc. You can visit the world’s highest Shiva temple Tungnath ji, it is about to 3.5 km trek and another 1.5 km ahead from Tungnath ji, is Chandrashila offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and a 360-degree view of the mountains. Himalayan peaks including Chaukhambha, Trishuli, Bandarpoonch, Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghoonti, Pancachuli and many more can be seen from Chandrashila. Devaria Tal is another Picturesque lake that is just a 20 km Drive and a 2.5 Km trek from Chopta. Ukhimath (Famous for Temple Ushamath – the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath ji & Madmaheshwer ) & Guptkashi (temple of Shiva) are at a distance of 30 & 45 km respectively.

Is there an ATM Facility available in Chopta
No, there is no Atm Facility available in Chopta. More information spin and win real money. Therefore, tourists can withdraw the cash from the previous location like Ukhimath, Bhiri, Chandrapuri, Agustyamuni & Rudraprayag.

How many days are enough for Chopta?
To enjoy & explore the beauty of Chopta and its nearby places, one would need 2 full days minimum (3 nights & 2 days) and as there are plenty of places in and around Chopta. A few of them visited places are Tungnath temple, Devariya Tal, Chandrashila, Ukhimath temple etc. In addition to that, there are other tourist destinations as well like Atri Muni Fall & Ansuya mata temple, Gopinath Temple in Gopeshwer, Famous Shiva temple in Guptkashi, Usha Temple in Ukhimath, Shiva Temple at Trijuginarayan around Chopta.

When can we expect snowfall in Chopta?
Chopta is the perfect hill station for you if you want to hunt the snowfall, Snowfall starts from the end of December to March end and it is very common during winter in Chopta.

Can we do the chopta-chandrashila trek in winter?
Yes, you can do it with snow trekking gear. The Chopta – Chandrashila trek became strenuous in winter due to heavy snowfall in Chopta Valley. And Chopta – Chandrashilla trek is the only short trek in Garhwal Himalaya which gifts an opportunity to climb over heavy snow on alpine slopes. Magpie Group based in Chotpa offers Snow/ winter trekking to all tourists even in winter (above than 18 years) with world-class snow gear & under the guidance of professionally NIM trained Guides.

Nearest airport to Chopta
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, which is about 225 km from Chopta.

Nearest railway station to Chopta
The nearest railway trek is Rishikesh railway station, which is about 190 km from Chopta. There are so many trains for Rishikesh with other major cities like Delhi, Amritsar & Kolkata etc. In addition to that, tourists can choose Haridwar railway station with more trains available from different cities of India.

Taxi available for sightseeing
No, because Chopta is a less crowded hill station. Magpie Group (Magpie Camp Chotpa) can arrange car rental services for Chopta Sightseeing, their guests only.

How to reach Chopta from Delhi/ Haridwar or Rishikesh
Chopta is at a distance of 440 km from Delhi and 190 km from Rishikesh. There are various modes of transportation available for Chopta.

 By Road -: Chopta is well connected by motorable roads with major cities of India. There is no bus service directly available for Chopta from Delhi or Rishikesh or any station of Uttarakhand and you need to change your bus from Rudraprayag or Kund (One bus service from Delhi ISBT Maharana Pratap and it starts at 9 P.m. from here to Guptkashi and reached at 9.30 am at Kund and it is just 35 Km before Chopta & 7 Km before Ukhimath) to Ukhimath. And there is again no Share taxis & bus service from Ukhimath to Chopta (A bus at 7.30 in the morning but is not a regular one). It is advisable, to reach Chopta first have to take the bus for Rishikesh/ Haridwar or Rudraprayag then change to another bus or share a taxi up to Ukhimath and after that, you have to hire a local jeep for Chopta drop.

 Chopta By Train -: The nearest railway station to Chopta is Rishikesh. Rishikesh railway station is situated 202 km before Chopta on NH58. Rishikesh is well connected by railway networks with major destinations of India. It is advisable to take trains to Haridwar not for Rishikesh because trains are available for Haridwar frequently. Chopta is well connected by motorable roads with Rishikesh. Taxis and buses are available from Rishikesh to Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath and after that, you have to hire a taxi to Chopta.
Chopta- View Train Schedule

 Chopta By Flight -: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest Airport to Chopta situated at a distance of 225 km. Jolly Grant Airport is well connected to Delhi with daily flights. Chopta is well connected by motorable roads with Jolly Grant Airport. Taxis are available from Jolly Grant Airport to Chopta.

 

Chandrashila Trek FAQs

There are a lot of questions while planning a journey. To ensure that your preparations run smoothly, we have the answers to the questions most frequently asked about travelling to and in Chandrashila Trek. Chandrashila Trek useful information for travellers with reliable local advice. Latest Chandrashila Trek Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for your upcoming visit to Chandrashila Trek. Get all the solutions to your query with the eUttaranchal Travel Help Desk.

Chandrashila Trek is famous as an Adventure, Hot Destination, Trekking, Editor's Choice, Temples, Activities, View Points, Featured, Must, Peaks and Mountains, and Winter Treks, with over 4 Places to See in Chandrashila Trek. The nearest Airport from Chandrashila Trek is Jolly Grant Airport, 227 km and Nearest Railway Station is Rishikesh, 213 km.

1. What is Chandrashila Trek?
Chandrashila Trek is a popular trek in the Indian Himalayas, leading to the summit of Chandrashila (4,000 meters or 13,123 feet) near the Tungnath Temple in Uttarakhand. It offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Nanda Devi and Trishul.

2. How difficult is the Chandrashila Trek?
The trek is moderate in difficulty. While it can be challenging due to altitude and weather conditions, it is accessible to beginners with good fitness levels and some trekking experience.

3. What is the best time to trek Chandrashila?
The best months are usually from March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). During these times, the weather is generally stable and clear, offering the best views.

4. How long does the trek take?
Typically, the trek takes around 5-6 days, depending on the route and the pace of the group. The ascent to Chandrashila usually takes about 1-2 days from Chopta.

5. What is the starting point for the trek?
The trek usually starts from Chopta, which can be reached by road from major towns like Rishikesh or Haridwar.

6. What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation options include guesthouses, homestays, and tents. In the peak seasons, it’s advisable to book in advance.

7. Do I need a permit for the trek?
No special permits are generally required for the Chandrashila Trek, but it’s always best to check with local authorities or your trekking agency.

8. What should I pack for the trek?
Essential items include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, a rain jacket, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a first aid kit, and plenty of water and snacks.

9. Is it safe to trek alone?
While many people trek alone, it’s generally safer to go with a group or a guide, especially if you’re inexperienced.

10. What are the main attractions along the trek?
Key attractions include the Tungnath Temple, the beautiful meadows of Chopta, and breathtaking panoramic views from the summit of Chandrashila.