Tungnath Chandrashila Trek from Delhi: A Journey to the Highest Shiva Temple
Published on February 19, 2025
The Tungnath Chandrashila Trek from Delhi is a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty. From the Tungnath Temple, steeped in history and dedicated to Lord Shiva, to the Chandrashila Summit, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas, the trek is a must-do for trekking enthusiasts. The serenity, the challenge, and the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas make this journey unforgettable.
The Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is one of the most thrilling and scenic treks you can experience in the Indian Himalayas. Located in the state of Uttarakhand, this trek takes you through pristine landscapes, spiritual landmarks, and offers an incredible panoramic view of the snow-covered peaks. Starting from Delhi, the journey to the Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Summit is an adventure that combines the serenity of nature with the charm of spiritual heritage.
Tungnath Chandrashila Trek:
Spiritual Significance: The Tungnath Temple is not only an architectural marvel but also a significant religious site, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is part of the Panch Kedar, a group of five temples that hold immense importance in Hindu mythology.
Stunning Views: The trek offers one of the most picturesque experiences in the Indian Himalayas. From the Chandrashila Summit, you can catch views of some of the tallest peaks of Uttarakhand, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath.
Serenity and Peace: With limited crowds and natural beauty, the trek offers a perfect blend of spirituality and solitude.
Chopta: The Base for Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
The trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila begins from Chopta, a small yet stunning hill station nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Known as the Mini Switzerland of India, Chopta serves as the base camp for the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. The lush meadows, oak forests, and beautiful landscapes make Chopta a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is also an excellent place for bird watchers, as the region is rich in birdlife.
Chopta Tungnath Trek Overview
The Chopta Tungnath Trek is an enchanting experience that takes you through dense forests of rhododendron, oak trees, and alpine meadows. As you ascend towards the Tungnath Temple, you’ll witness a transformation in the landscape from lush greenery to snow-covered trails, depending on the season.
Tungnath Temple: The trek leads to the Tungnath Temple, which is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world, located at an altitude of 3,680 meters. The temple is believed to be over a thousand years old and is an essential part of the Panch Kedar circuit. The serene and spiritual atmosphere around the temple makes it a highly revered place for pilgrims.
Chandrashila Peak: Just a short distance above Tungnath lies the Chandrashila Summit, which is known for offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. Standing at an altitude of 4,000 meters, Chandrashila offers an unrivaled view of the snow-capped mountains, making it one of the highlights of the trek.
Chopta Tungnath Trek from Delhi: Trekking Details
The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is a moderately challenging one, with a total distance of about 3.5 kilometers. The trek involves steep ascents, rocky paths, and some snow, especially during the winter months. It can take around 3 to 4 hours to reach Tungnath from Chopta. While the trek is doable for beginners, it’s important to be prepared for the altitude and variable weather conditions.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
Duration: 3 to 4 hours (one way)
Maximum Altitude: 3,680 meters (Tungnath)
Season: The best time for the trek is during the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is pleasant, and the views are clear. Winter treks (December to February) are also popular but more challenging due to snow.
Tungnath Temple Trek
The Tungnath Temple Trek is an essential part of the Chopta Tungnath Trek. As you hike towards the temple, you will pass through a scenic path surrounded by lush greenery, towering trees, and magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. The temple itself stands as a tribute to Lord Shiva, and it is a place where spirituality and nature intertwine.
The architecture of the Tungnath Temple is simple yet majestic, with its ancient stone structure reflecting the craftsmanship of early Hindu architecture. The trek to the temple is not only a spiritual journey but also an opportunity to appreciate the sheer beauty of nature.
Chandrashila Summit Trek: Reaching the Peak
Once you have visited the Tungnath Temple, the next step is to continue the ascent towards Chandrashila Summit, which stands at an altitude of 4,000 meters. The distance from Tungnath to Chandrashila is about 1 kilometer, and it is a relatively short, but steep climb.
As you climb higher, the views become more mesmerizing, and you can experience the grandeur of the Himalayan peaks around you. On a clear day, the view from the summit includes several snow-covered peaks, such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth. The sunrise and sunset views from the Chandrashila Summit are truly magical, offering you a chance to experience nature at its finest.
The climb to Chandrashila is worth every step because the views from the summit are unparalleled. The entire landscape around you is a blend of snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and dense forests, creating a sense of wonder and awe.
Chopta Chandrashila Trek from Delhi
The Chopta Chandrashila Trek combines two elements of adventure—the trek to the Tungnath Temple and the climb to the Chandrashila Summit. For those looking for an extended trek, the Chandrashila summit is an incredible destination. The trek involves ascending through thick forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron, with intermittent views of the mighty peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas.
For trekkers, this entire experience feels like a journey to another world. Whether you are seeking peace, spirituality, or adventure, the Chopta Chandrashila Trek from Delhi has something for everyone.
Deoria Tal: A Beautiful Detour
Before reaching Chopta, many trekkers make a detour to Deoria Tal, a beautiful freshwater lake situated at an altitude of 2,438 meters. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and offers panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Deoria Tal is a popular spot for camping and offers an ideal location to unwind before beginning the trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila. The sight of the mountains reflected in the still waters of Deoria Tal is a sight to behold.
Tungnath Chandrashila Trek: A Spiritual Experience
The Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual journey. The region is part of the Panch Kedar, a set of five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The trek to Tungnath Temple holds significant religious importance for Hindus. Pilgrims come from all parts of India to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva, making this trek a sacred one.
While trekking, you’ll experience moments of peace and spirituality, especially around the temple and at Chandrashila Summit. The journey feels like a pilgrimage to the highest realms of the Himalayas, where every step brings you closer to divinity.
How to Reach Chopta from Delhi: A Detailed Guide
Reaching Chopta from Delhi is an exciting and scenic journey, and though it involves a considerable distance, the views and the experience along the way are well worth the effort. Situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Chopta is around 450 kilometers away from Delhi. Whether you're traveling by road or opting for a combination of train and road, getting to Chopta is an adventure in itself. Here's a detailed look at your options:
1. Reaching Chopta by Road:
The road journey from Delhi to Chopta is one of the most preferred options for trekkers and tourists, offering a combination of comfort, flexibility, and the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayan foothills along the way. The journey can be done by private car, hired taxi, or by taking an overnight bus.
Distance and Duration: The road distance between Delhi and Chopta is approximately 450 kilometers. Depending on road conditions and traffic, it typically takes around 12 to 14 hours to reach Chopta by road.
Route: The most common route to Chopta from Delhi is as follows: Start from Delhi and head towards Haridwar or Rishikesh, which are both well-connected to Delhi.
From Haridwar, continue your journey towards Rishikesh and then to Devprayag, which is the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers.
After Devprayag, drive towards Srinagar (Garhwal), and then head to Rudraprayag.
From Rudraprayag, follow the road to Chopta.
The entire journey is a scenic delight, passing through lush green forests, rivers, and valleys, giving you a beautiful preview of the rugged terrains of Uttarakhand.
2. Reaching Chopta from Delhi by Bus:
For those who prefer public transport, overnight buses from Delhi ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal) to Rishikesh or Haridwar are a good option. The bus ride offers comfort, and it's budget-friendly compared to hiring a private car. Several bus services operate between Delhi and Rishikesh/Haridwar, making it easy to find a suitable option.
Bus from Delhi ISBT: You can board an overnight AC/Non-AC Volvo or Sleeper Bus from Delhi ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal), which takes approximately 6 to 8 hours to reach Rishikesh or Haridwar.
Rishikesh/Haridwar to Chopta: Once you reach Rishikesh or Haridwar, you will need to hire a taxi or take a local bus to continue the journey to Chopta.
From Rishikesh, it takes approximately 6 to 7 hours to reach Chopta.
From Haridwar, the distance is slightly longer, around 8 to 9 hours.
The road is well-paved, and as you travel along, the picturesque scenery of the Garhwal region unfolds before you, including rivers like Ganga and Yamuna, and a series of small towns.
3. Reaching Chopta from Delhi by Train:
While there is no direct railway station in Chopta, you can easily use the train travel option to get to nearby railway stations and then continue your journey by road to Chopta.
Option 1: Delhi to Haridwar (by Train): Haridwar Junction is the nearest major railway station to Chopta, and you can catch a train from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Haridwar.
Train Duration: The journey from Delhi to Haridwar takes approximately 5 to 6 hours by train, depending on the train service you opt for.
From Haridwar, you can take a taxi or bus to Chopta.
Option 2: Delhi to Rishikesh (by Train): Alternatively, you can take a train from Delhi to Rishikesh, which is about 6 to 7 hours from Delhi.
Once you reach Rishikesh, the road journey to Chopta is around 6 to 7 hours by taxi or bus.
Both Haridwar and Rishikesh are well-connected to Delhi by superfast trains, express trains, and fast trains, making the train journey quite comfortable. Though the train option adds more time to the journey compared to road travel, it can be a good option for those who prefer a more relaxed travel experience.
4. Alternative Routes via Air (for Convenience):
For those who prefer a quicker option, flying to Dehradun is also a possibility. You can book a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is the nearest airport to Chopta.
Flight Duration: The flight from Delhi to Dehradun typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
From Dehradun to Chopta: Once you arrive at Jolly Grant Airport, you will need to hire a taxi for the remaining 200 kilometers to Chopta, which takes about 7 to 8 hours by road.
While this option saves you time in terms of air travel, the road journey from Dehradun to Chopta is still long, and you may miss out on some of the scenic beauty that you would witness while traveling by train or road.
5. Tips for the Journey:
Road Conditions: While the roads to Chopta are generally good, they can get narrow and winding in places, especially in the higher altitudes. Keep your vehicle’s condition in mind, and be prepared for a long drive.
Weather Considerations: Chopta is a high-altitude area, so it's advisable to check the weather conditions before planning your trip. Winters (from December to February) can be especially cold, with heavy snowfall on the trek paths. Summer months (March to June) offer more comfortable weather for trekking.
Stops on the Way: Plan your journey with adequate breaks to enjoy the landscape and avoid exhaustion. Popular stopovers include Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Devprayag, which are excellent spots to stretch your legs and enjoy a meal.
Travel Essentials: Make sure to carry essential items such as water, snacks, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the beauty of the journey. If you’re traveling in winter, pack adequate warm clothing and gear.
Reaching Chopta from Delhi is an exciting journey that offers a variety of routes, from scenic road trips to convenient train rides. Whether you opt for road travel, buses, or a combination of train and taxi, the journey provides ample opportunities to appreciate the beauty of the Himalayan foothills and immerse yourself in Uttarakhand's natural wonders. Although it’s a long journey, the reward in terms of the picturesque landscapes and the experiences waiting at Chopta is more than worth it.
No matter how you choose to travel, be sure to soak in the vibrant landscapes, explore the towns along the way, and get ready for an unforgettable trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila.
Chopta Tour Packages
For those who want to explore Chopta and the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek in a more organized manner, Chopta Tour Packages are available. These packages usually include transportation, accommodation, meals, and a guide, ensuring a hassle-free trekking experience. Some popular Chopta tour packages also include additional treks to nearby attractions such as Deoria Tal and Kedarnath.
These packages are ideal for first-time trekkers or for those who prefer a more structured approach to their adventure. Various tour operators provide both group and solo trekking packages for the Chopta Tungnath Trek, allowing you to choose the option that suits your preference and convenience.
The Tungnath Chandrashila Trek from Delhi is a captivating journey that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner, this trek provides an opportunity to explore the grandeur of the Garhwal Himalayas, experience the peaceful atmosphere around the Tungnath Temple, and stand on top of the Chandrashila Summit for a view that will stay etched in your memory forever.
The combination of lush meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks makes this trek one of the most scenic in Uttarakhand. With the added allure of spiritual significance, the Chopta Tungnath Trek is more than just a physical challenge—it’s an experience that nourishes the soul. Whether you opt for a Chopta tour package or decide to go on your own, the Chopta Chandrashila Trek offers something for every kind of traveler.
So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on this incredible journey to the heights of spirituality and adventure, where nature unveils its most magnificent vistas at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Regarding Chopta
Chopta is a stunning hill station located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, known for its picturesque landscapes and as the base for the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. With its increasing popularity among trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers, many people have questions about Chopta and its offerings. Here’s a list of frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.
1. What is the best time to visit Chopta?
The best time to visit Chopta depends on the kind of experience you're seeking:
Summer (March to June): Ideal for trekking and outdoor activities with pleasant weather and clear skies. The temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C.
Monsoon (July to September): Not recommended for trekking due to heavy rainfall, which makes the trails slippery and risky.
Autumn (September to November): Another great time to visit, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Ideal for trekking and camping.
Winter (December to February): Chopta becomes a winter wonderland during this time, with snowfall. It’s perfect for snow lovers and winter treks, but the weather can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below 0°C.
2. How do I reach Chopta from Delhi?
Chopta is approximately 450 kilometers from Delhi, and there are various ways to reach it:
By Road: The most popular way is to drive or hire a taxi. It’s a 12-14 hour drive via Rishikesh and Srinagar (Garhwal). Alternatively, buses from Delhi ISBT to Rishikesh and then taxis or buses to Chopta are available.
By Train: Take a train to Haridwar or Rishikesh, then hire a taxi or bus to Chopta.
By Air: Fly from Delhi to Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport) and then drive for 7-8 hours to reach Chopta.
3. What are the main attractions in Chopta?
Chopta is primarily known for its natural beauty and trekking routes, but it also offers a few attractions:
Tungnath Temple: The highest Shiva temple in the world, located at 3,680 meters.
Chandrashila Summit: Offering panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas and peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
Deoria Tal: A picturesque lake surrounded by dense forests, offering stunning reflections of the mountains in the still waters.
Kedarnath: If you have more time, you can trek to Kedarnath from Chopta.
4. Is Chopta suitable for beginners?
Yes, Chopta is a great destination for beginners. The Tungnath Temple Trek and Chandrashila Summit are of moderate difficulty, making them perfect for novice trekkers who are physically fit. However, trekkers should be mindful of the altitude and weather conditions, especially during winter, and acclimatization is essential.
5. What are the accommodation options in Chopta?
Chopta offers a range of accommodation options, including:
Guesthouses and Hotels: Basic guesthouses and small hotels are available in Chopta for a comfortable stay.
Campsites: For adventure lovers, camping in Chopta or near Deoria Tal is a great option. There are several campsites offering tents, meals, and guides.
Homestays: A few local homestays are available, where you can experience the traditional Garhwali culture and hospitality.
6. Can I do the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek in a single day?
Yes, the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek can be completed in a single day. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath Temple is about 3.5 km, and it takes around 3 to 4 hours to reach the temple. From Tungnath, it takes another 1 hour to reach Chandrashila Summit. The descent can take about 2 to 3 hours. However, depending on your fitness level and the weather, the trek may take longer.
7. Is there snow in Chopta during winter?
Yes, Chopta receives snowfall during the winter months (from December to February), transforming the area into a snow-covered paradise. The Tungnath Temple Trek and Chandrashila Summit become even more enchanting, with snow-covered trails and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.
8. Do I need a guide for the Chopta Tungnath Trek?
While the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is marked with clear trail signs, it’s advisable to hire a local guide for safety, especially if you’re trekking during winter when the paths may be covered with snow. A guide can also enhance your experience by providing insights about the area’s flora, fauna, and culture.
9. What are the important things to carry for the trek?
For the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek, pack the following essentials:
Trekking Shoes: Comfortable, waterproof shoes with good grip are essential for the trek.
Warm Clothing: Layers of clothing, including a thermal jacket, gloves, and a woolen cap, especially if you’re visiting in winter.
Backpack: A lightweight backpack with water, snacks, a camera, and a first aid kit.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Protect your skin from the strong sun at higher altitudes.
Headlamp or Torch: In case you end up trekking during early morning or evening hours.
Poncho or Raincoat: In case of unexpected rain.
10. Are there any food options in Chopta?
Chopta is a remote region with limited food options. Some basic eateries and small shops offer simple meals like dal, rice, roti, and sabzi. However, the options are limited, so it’s a good idea to carry your own snacks, energy bars, and water. If you're staying at a campsite or homestay, meals are usually provided.
The Tungnath Chandrashila Trek from Delhi offers an enriching and unforgettable experience for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and spiritual enthusiasts. With its breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, the historic Tungnath Temple, and the awe-inspiring Chandrashila Summit, this trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and physical challenge.
Whether you're trekking through dense forests, walking on snow-covered trails, or immersing yourself in the serenity of the surroundings, every moment of this journey is bound to leave you with lasting memories. Accessible for trekkers of varying experience levels, this trek provides an opportunity to connect with nature, experience the magic of the Himalayas, and challenge your limits. Whether it's your first Himalayan trek or you're a seasoned trekker, the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek promises an adventure of a lifetime.
