Explore the ultimate guide to Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek. Get trek routes, itinerary, best time to visit, difficulty level & weather info.
Explore the breathtaking Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila trek with Deoria Tal, one of the most scenic and beginner-friendly treks in Uttarakhand, India. From snow-covered peaks and dense forests to ancient Shiva temples and serene lakes, this trek offers the perfect mix of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty.
How to plan the Chopta, Tungnath trek & Chandrashila trek?
If you are going on a mountain trek in the Himalayas and dreaming of mountain trails, peaceful meadows, and the beauty of nature without any stress, then plan before you start.
• Plan a detailed day-wise itinerary
• Study the fascinating fact about the region
• Pack the essentials required during the trek, like clothes, boots
• Consider the best time for the trek
• Search for the available accommodations
• Book the guide for your trek
• It is better to go in a group
• Take the packages for your convenience
• Take your camera for photography capturing Chhota’s views
• Find the best time for your trekking
Overview: Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek
This trek is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers looking for an easy-to-moderate adventure in the Garhwal Himalayas. Starting from Sari village in Rudraprayag, the route covers:
- Chopta – the base camp
- Tungnath Temple – the highest Shiva temple in the world
- Chandrashila Peak – “Moon Rock” with 360° Himalayan views
- Deoria Tal – a scenic lake with reflections of snow-capped mountains
About Chopta: The Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand
Chopta is a serene hill station located at 2,608 meters and is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. It is often called the “Mini Switzerland of India” due to its lush meadows, dense forests, and panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks. Chopta is an all-year holiday destination offering pleasant weather in summer, rain and fresh in monsoon, and a snow-clad fairyland in winter.
Top attractions in and around Chopta:
- Tungnath Temple
- Kartik Swami Temple
- Hariyali Devi Temple
- Koteshwar Temple
- Croanch Parvat
Trek Itinerary: 4–5 Days Plan
Here’s a sample itinerary to cover Deoria Tal, Tungnath, and Chandrashila comfortably:
- Day 1: Rishikesh → Sari Village (192 km / 6–7 hours)
- Day 2: Sari → Deoria Tal (3 km trek) → return to Sari
- Day 3: Sari → Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → return to Chopta
- Day 4: Chopta → Rishikesh
Optional: Combine Deoria Tal to Chopta on foot (14 km) for a more adventurous route.
Tungnath Temple: World’s Highest Shiva Temple
Tungnath, located at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), is one of the Panch Kedar and the highest Shiva temple on Earth. It is covered in snow from December to March and offers mystical mountain views along with spiritual significance.
Chandrashila Trek: The Moon Rock Summit
The Chandrashila peak lies just 1.5 km above Tungnath and sits at 3,690 meters. It’s a short, steep climb but rewards you with 360° views of the Himalayan giants, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath Dome, and Chaukhamba. The journey offers breathtaking views, serene landscapes. And a chance to explore the beauty of Uttarakhand.
Best time to visit:
- Summer (April to June) – Clear weather & blooming rhododendrons
- Winter (December to February) – Snowy landscapes for adventure lovers
Deoria Tal: Mirror Lake of the Himalayas
Located at 2,438 meters, Deoria Tal is a serene high-altitude lake 3 km from Sari village. The calm waters reflect Chaukhamba peak, creating picture-perfect scenes. The trek to Deoria Tal is easy and beginner-friendly.
- Trek Distance: 2.5 km (Sari → Deoria Tal)
- Camping allowed: Yes
- Views of Peaks: Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, Bandarpunch, Kedar Dome
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Ideal for: Beginners, families, solo travelers, experienced trekkers
- Fitness level: Moderate
- No guide needed: Routes are well marked
- Oxygen levels: High compared to other Himalayan treks (like Kedarnath)
- Age Limit: Suitable for 10 to 60+ years with basic fitness
Trek Duration
The full trek covering Tungnath, Chandrashila, and Deoria Tal can be done in 4–5 days. While it’s possible to cover it in 2–3 days, rushing may cause you to miss the scenic beauty.
Accommodation Options
Expect basic stays like:
- Guest houses
- Swiss cottages
- Budget homestays
- Tent camping
They usually include meals, guides, and transportation in tour packages. Luxury hotels are not available.
Why This Trek is a Must-Do
Stunning views of snow-capped peaks
Visit the highest Shiva temple in the world
Explore a hidden Himalayan lake
Easy yet rewarding trail
Spiritual serenity + nature + adventure
Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, bird watchers, and families
Weather in Chopta
| Season | Temperature Range | Notes |
| Summer (Mar–May) | 4°C – 25°C | Pleasant weather, green valleys |
| Monsoon (Jul–Oct) | 6°C – 25°C | Heavy rain, risk of landslides |
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | -4°C – 10°C | Snowfall, frozen paths, adventure |
Best Time to Visit
Planning the Chopta Chandrashila treks becomes more rewarding when you choose the right season. The trek is accessible throughout the year, but your experience becomes more enjoyable and changes completely with the right time, whether you are interested in snowfall, blooming forest, or clear Himalayan skies.
- March to May: Ideal for trekking and sightseeing
- November to February: Snow season for thrill-seekers
- Avoid monsoon (July–September) due to landslides
How to Reach Chopta
There are many options to reach Chopta, including by air, road, and train. You can choose the options according to your convenience.
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (221 km)
- Well connected to Delhi & other major cities
By Train
- Nearest Station: Dehradun Railway Station
- Connected to Delhi and across India
By Road
- Regular buses and taxis are available from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun
FAQs About Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek
Q1. Is the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trek is perfect for beginners and families. It’s easy to moderate in difficulty and doesn’t require prior trekking experience.
Q2. What is the best time to do this trek?
April to June for clear skies and November to February for snow trekking.
Q3. Do I need a guide or permit for this trek?
No permit is required, and a guide is optional. The trail is well-marked.
Q4. Can senior citizens do this trek?
Yes, people over 60 can attempt the trek if they are in good physical health.
Q5. Is camping allowed at Deoria Tal?
Yes, camping is permitted and quite popular among trekkers.
Final Thoughts
The Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila with Deoria Tal trek is a magical journey into the Himalayas that blends natural beauty, spiritual peace, and adventure. Whether you’re a beginner trekker or a nature enthusiast, this trek promises an unforgettable experience.
By
Stunning views, what an amazing experience💫
Thank you Cherry for your beautiful remark. Chopta is a very beautiful destination located in the Himalayan Ranges in India. Along with its beauty, the atmosphere is very pleasant.