Introduction
Chopta Valley, at an elevation of 2,680 metres, is surrounded by an imposing forest of oak, deodar, and rhododendron, which casts a rich bed of flowering plants. The spellbinding Chandrashila Summit Trek is distinguished by the grandeur of the Himalayan Peak. You’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi (7,817 metres), Trishul (7,120 metres), and Kedarnath (6,831 metres), Bandarpunch (6,316 metres), and Chaukhamba (6,316 metres) once you reach the summit (7,138 metres).
The journey from Chopta to Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva Temple at 3,680 metres, is best started early in the morning. One of the Panch Kedar, the temple is nestled beneath the Chandrashila peak. Tungnath is thought to be over 1000 years old and has a legend that confirms some of the depictions in the Mahabharata epic. An hour’s hike from Tungnath temple takes you to the Chandrashila summit, from which you can see the silvery sheen of the Himalayan range, dotted with several peaks.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Chopta Chandrashila Trek?
The best times to visit Chopta are in the spring (April-June) and winter (December-February) (October-December).
During the summer, the weather in Chopta is pleasant. The Himalayas are visible, and there is a cool breeze in the early morning and late evening. It is recommended that you bring light woollens.
During the monsoon season, Chopta turns greener. Even though trekking becomes difficult during the monsoon season, and roads may be closed for several hours due to landslides, the scenic beauty of Chopta is well worth the risk. It is recommended that raincoats be brought.
During the winter season, the region is blanketed in snow, and lodging options are limited. In the winter, when Chopta is at its most beautiful, the trek becomes more difficult. It is advised that you bring heavy woollens with you.
Where is Chopta Chandrashila?
Chopta is a village located approximately 36 kilometres from Gopeshwar, 254 kilometres from Rishikesh, and 450 kilometres from Delhi. Tugnath is a three-kilometre trek from Chopta, and Chandrashila is another kilometre away.
Dos and Don’ts-
1. Always bring a trekking pole with you when you go mountain hiking.
2. Wear light, quick-drying clothing; avoid jeans and other body-hugging garments.
3. If you are unfamiliar with the area, never go out without a guide; mountains are unpredictable.
4. Bring enough water to stay hydrated before starting the trek.
5. When hiking in the mountains, always bring a raincoat.
6. Invest in the best hiking boots you can afford.
7. When descending, walk across and flat-footed; when ascending, dig in your heel first. (Ideal for rain and snow)
8. Never take medication without first consulting the trek guides.
The Chandrashila Trek itinerary
There are two or three suggested routes for Chandrashila Treks. Itineraries are recommended based on the facilities and length of stay desired. Kund Camp and Sari Village both serve as starting points for different routes. Remember that the route does not follow any particular order, so don’t get confused with the route on the map. You should not be concerned if you are unfamiliar with maps. Follow the route recommended by your tour operator or fellow trekkers, or select the best one I have to offer.
Travel from Haridwar to Sari on Day 1.
Sari serves as the picturesque starting point for the epic trek to Chandrashila. The Rudraprayag district base camp is nearly an 8-hour drive from Haridwar. Trekkers can spend their nights in campsites, homestays, and guest houses.
Sari is mostly used as a stopover on the way to Deoria Tal the next day. The village’s lofty landmass and the surrounding imposing mountains are breathtaking. Continue to absorb the best.
Sari to Deoria Tal on Day 2
Deoria Tal is a beautiful campsite located three kilometres from Sari. The entire walk has an elevation of nearly 1300 feet and takes about an hour to complete. About halfway through the route as you traverse the maple forest, you come across a Hawa Ghar built by the forest department for the convenience of fellow trekkers. At 8000 feet, the emerald lake is a sight to behold, nestled among massive peaks.
Day 3: Deoria Tal to Chopta
On the third day, bid farewell to Mount Chaukhamba, which towers over the pristine Deoria Tal Lake. This is the most important day of the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek, as you will gain 1000 feet in elevation. In addition, you must navigate perilous pathways through dense forest and jagged alleys. The 14-kilometre trip from Deoria Tal to Chopta takes about 9 hours.
The journey begins with a gradual ascent and ends with a quick descent. There are a couple of watering holes along the way, just before Rohini Bugyal, Akash Kamini Waterfall, and Bhrujgali.
We travelled from Chopta to Chandrashila and back via Tungnath on Day 4.
The fourth day will be even more exciting! One of the circuit’s highlights is the Chopta Tungnath trek, which passes over the 1000-year-old Shiva temple. The steep ascent leads to Chandrashila Peak, which is located 8 kilometres from Chopta and takes approximately 5 hours to reach. At 12000 feet, this route passes the iconic Tungnath Temple. This Lord Shiva temple, located in the Tungnath Range, is the world’s highest Shiva temple.
Day 5: Chopta-Haridwar
On this day, you will return to Haridwar after a delicious breakfast. You can return to Haridwar Railway Station in the evening. You return home with unforgettable memories of one of the most exciting Himalayan treks.
