Chopta Chandrashila Trek – A Himalayan Trail That Touches the Sky
Chopta Chandrashila Trek is a very scenic and spiritually abundant trek of the Indian Himalayas. Chopta which is also known as a Mini Switzerland of India is a quiet village located in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The trek is a perfect combination of adventure, spirituality and Himalayan charm hence the trek is one of the best winter treks in India to both the beginners and experienced trekkers.
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It is a wander through fairyland -- through the deep oak and rhododendron woodland, the snow-white meadows and the old temples. The completion of the trip is Chandrashila Summit, which is a high peak of about 13,000 ft., where one can get a 360deg view of some of the most grand Himalayan peaks - Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, and Chaukhamba.
This trek has its base at Chopta, which is at the elevation of 8, 790 ft. On the way, it goes through Tungnath, the largest Shiva temple in the world, and to Chandrashila the name that means Moon Rock. The path is not long, but is very rewarding, biodiverse, with stunning sunrise and relaxing Himalayan force.
The Temple of Tungnath Spiritual Essence.
The Chandrashila Trek at Chopta is one of the best places in the trek where you can visit Tungnath Temple which has got significant mythological significance. This temple was made by the Pandavas in honor of Lord Shiva according to story after the Kurukshetra war. It is the tallest Shiva temple on the planet and still an obligatory destination of all trekkers on the trail at the altitude of 12,000 ft.
The temple is snow-white silent and still and as the bells rattle gently in the mountain air, it is like a sense of Godlike calm like a feeling that the trekkers have often known as peace beyond words.
Chandrashila Summit The Crown of the Trek.
The trail goes through Chandrashila after Tungnath; this is a steep mountain but a rewarding one. It is like being on the border of the heaven when on the top, the panorama runs indefinitely over the Garhwal and Kumaon ranges. The Chandrashila sunrise is always claimed to be one of the most beautiful instances of Himalayas.
When the rays of light fell on the snowy tops of Kedarnath and Nanda Devi, the sky is all golden. It is a scene that every trekker will remember his life.
Natural Beauty Trail Highlights.
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It would be a sight worth looking at in March to April when the blooming rhododendron flowers cover the valleys and make the whole region red and pink. On the contrary, the trail turns to a quiet white fairy-tale in December to February.
Best Time to Trek Chopta Chandrashila
The most suitable moment of the Chopta Chandrashila Trek will be according to the type of experience you seek:
- December to February - To have a classic winter in the trekking scene as well as snow lovers.
- March to April-To rhododendron and moderate snow cover.
- September-November- To see the crystal-clear mountain view and enjoy a nice weather.
Every season makes this trek have a different flavor, however, the winter season is the most preferred due to snowy paths and its spectacular sunrise.
Trek Route Overview
- The Chopta Chandrashila Trek takes a usual period of 4 to 5 days and it takes the following route:
- Sari Village to Deoriatal - An easy climb taking one to a beautiful lake which is a mirror image of the mountains.
- Deoriatal to Chopta - Picturesque forest trail through meadows and wildlife reserve areas.
- Chopta to Tungnath Temple- It is a slow ascending route to the ancient temple.
- Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit - This is the last sharp climb to the summit with memorable sunrise sceneries.
- Go back to Chopta and Sari Village.- It covers a distance of approximately 16-20 km and is suitable to people with first hand trekking experience or those on weekend escapades.
Camping and Accommodation
The majority of the trekkers tend to camp around Deoriatal or Chopta area with snow-capped mountains and pine trees around. Having been able to wake up to views of sunrise and hear mountain birds is something that one will never forget. Guest houses, tents can also be found in the locals which are taken care of by the local villagers who treat trekkers with home cooked meals with great warmth.
When you hike with a company such as Trek The Himalayas, all the arrangements such as tents, food and permits are taken care of thus you are able to spend all the time you have on the trip.
Difficulty and Preparation
The Chopta Chandrashila trek is rated Easy to Moderate and hence beginners can take the trek. Nevertheless, it is cold during winter and therefore good trekking shoes, trekking poles and warm layered clothing are necessary. Some pre-trek muscle conditioning jogging, squats, stair climbing, etc. will help in increasing stamina.
Why You Should Do the Chopta Chandrashila Trek
- Introduction of the best winter Himalayan trekking.
- Go to the tallest temple of Shiva in the world.
- Have a glimpse of beautiful sunrise at Chandrashila summit.
- Scenic beauty, spirituality and adventure.
- Available all year round with few technical challenges.
This hike has everything to offer you, whether you are either looking to be alone, find a spiritual repose, or even simply enjoy the delight of walking on snow. Each moment you spend on the trail on the Chopta Chandrashila trail, you get in touch with the mountains, their silence, power and sacredness.
Trek Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Region | Uttarakhand, Garhwal Himalayas |
| Altitude | 13,000 ft. (Chandrashila Summit) |
| Duration | 4–5 Days |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Trek Distance | 16–20 km |
| Base Camp | Sari Village / Chopta |
| Best Season | December to April |
| Highlights | Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Summit, Deoriatal Lake, Himalayan Sunrise |
FAQs
1. When is the right time to go Chopta Chandrashila Trek?
When to take Chopta Chandrashila Trek would be best, it would depend on what you seek.
You can trek during the months of December to February in case you would want to have some snow. March to April is best to see and to have blooming rhododendrons. The season of September to November has a pleasant weather and the Himalayas has a panoramic view.
2. The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is beginner friendly or not?
Indeed, Chopta Chandrashila Trek is among the top and easy treks in India. The amount of distance is approximately 16-20 km, where the rise is gradual and the altitude is not too high. It can be just undergone with simple fitness by beginners. Nevertheless, during the winter season, there might be snow on the trail, and it is advisable to carry a set of microspikes and trekking poles.
3. What are the key attractions of the Chandrashila trek of Chopta?
It is full of natural and spiritual beauty on the trek.
Major highlights include:
- Going to the Tungnath Temple, which is the highest Shiva temple in the world.
- Observation of 360deg Himalayan sceneries at Chandrashila Summit.
- Visit to Deoriatal lake, snow-white mountains.
- Hiking within the oak and rhododendron woods within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
4. Which are the approaches to reach the trek base camp of Chopta?
Chopta is also accessible by road to the key cities in Uttarakhand.
- By Road: You can travel by means of bus or shared cab either at Rishikesh or Haridwar to Ukhimath or straight to Chopta.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Haridwar (225km).
- Air: The closest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (210 km).
Final Words
Chopta Chandrashila Trek is not just a trail but it is an excursion into the depths of the Himalayas. Be it the sunrise at Chandrashila, offering prayers in Tungnath Temple or just sitting on the banks of Deoriatal Lake and spending some time quietly, this trek provides you with the moments touching your soul.
With its first snow trek or when you are planning your maiden experience in the Himalayas, Chopta Chandrashila should be at your list of places to visit. Go with reliable organizers such as Trek The Himalayas to have a safe and substantial experience and have the mountains share their time-old stories with you.
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