Chopta Tungnath Trek

The Chopta Tungnath trek takes you to the highest Shiva temple in the world and offers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks. Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3,680 meters (12,073 feet), this trek combines spiritual significance with natural beauty, making it a perfect blend of adventure and pilgrimage.

Overview

Chopta, often referred to as the 'Mini Switzerland of India', serves as the base for the trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila peak. The region is known for its lush meadows, dense forests, and panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. The trek to Tungnath temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, follows a well-defined path through rhododendron and oak forests. From Tungnath, a further climb leads to Chandrashila peak (4,000 meters), offering a 360-degree view of the Himalayan range. The combination of spiritual significance and natural beauty makes this trek a unique experience for both adventure enthusiasts and pilgrims.

Itinerary

The Route

The trek begins from Chopta (2,700 meters), which is accessible by road from Rishikesh or Dehradun. From Chopta, a well-marked trail ascends through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees. The 4 km trek to Tungnath temple takes approximately 3-4 hours at a moderate pace. After visiting the ancient temple, trekkers can continue for another 1.5 km to reach Chandrashila peak, which offers spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayan range. The return journey follows the same route back to Chopta. For those looking to extend their adventure, nearby attractions include Deoria Tal lake and the charming village of Rohini Bugyal.

Highlights Along the Way

• Visit to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world
• Panoramic views of major Himalayan peaks from Chandrashila summit
• Beautiful forests of rhododendron and oak trees (blooming with red flowers in spring)
• Lush green meadows of Chopta, known as the 'Mini Switzerland of India'
• Rich biodiversity with various Himalayan flora and fauna
• Blend of adventure and spiritual experience

Best Time to Visit

The Chopta Tungnath trek can be done throughout the year except during heavy monsoon (July-August) when trails become slippery. Spring (April-June) is ideal with moderate temperatures and blooming rhododendrons painting the forests in vibrant red. Autumn (September-November) offers clear skies and excellent visibility of distant Himalayan peaks. Winter (December-February) transforms the region into a snow-covered wonderland, though the temple remains closed during this period. The Tungnath temple officially opens in late April/early May (Akshaya Tritiya) and closes in November (Diwali).

Difficulty and Preparation

Chopta Tungnath is considered an easy to moderate trek suitable for beginners and families. The maximum altitude of 4,000 meters (Chandrashila peak) means some acclimatization is necessary, but altitude sickness is generally not a major concern for most trekkers. Basic physical fitness is sufficient, with the ability to walk 5-6 kilometers daily on inclined terrain. The trail is well-marked and maintained, making it accessible for first-time trekkers. For winter treks (December-February), additional preparation for cold weather and proper gear for walking on snow is necessary.

Accommodation

Accommodation options during the Chopta Tungnath trek include guesthouses, camps, and dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses). In Chopta, several guesthouses and camps offer basic to comfortable accommodation with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Near Tungnath temple, simple dharamshalas provide shelter for pilgrims and trekkers, though facilities are basic. During peak season, it's advisable to book accommodation in advance. For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping in designated areas around Chopta is also an option, with several tour operators providing tented accommodation with necessary amenities.

Local Culture

The Chopta Tungnath region holds significant cultural and religious importance in Hindu mythology. According to legend, Tungnath is one of the Panch Kedar (five Shiva temples in the Garhwal region), believed to be established by the Pandavas to seek Lord Shiva's forgiveness after the Mahabharata war. The temple architecture reflects the traditional Garhwali style, with intricate stone carvings and a conical roof. The local communities, primarily of Garhwali origin, maintain their traditional lifestyle, customs, and festivals. During the temple's opening ceremony in April/May, the region comes alive with religious ceremonies and cultural celebrations.

Conservation

The Chopta Tungnath region falls within the buffer zone of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse Himalayan flora and fauna including musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and numerous bird species. Conservation efforts focus on preserving this fragile ecosystem while promoting sustainable tourism. Trekkers are expected to follow responsible practices such as carrying back all non-biodegradable waste, staying on marked trails, and not disturbing the local wildlife. The increasing popularity of the trek has raised concerns about environmental impact, leading to various initiatives by local communities and forest departments to maintain the ecological balance of this beautiful region.

Frequently Asked Questions