Introduction
About Chopta
Chopta is a beautiful valley, situated at an altitude of approximately 2,680 meters in the Rudrapryag District of Uttarakhand. Chopta is also known as the “ Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand” because of its lush green meadows and the panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, dense deodar and rhododendron forests. It’s a haven for nature-loving travellers, bird watchers, and those who are seeking peace from the busy city life. Its serene atmosphere, with crisp mountain air, makes this place an ideal spot for rejuvenation. It also serves as the Tungnath trek starting point and a famous hill station of Uttarakhand.
About Tungnath
Situated at an impressive altitude of 3,680 meters, Tungnath Temple is the highest of the Panch Kedar temples and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This sacred temple is believed to be over 1000 years old and holds immense religious significance for Hinduism. According to Mythology, the arm of Lord Shiva appeared here. The temple’s architecture is simple yet striking, built of stone with carvings. Thousands of devotees and trekkers visit Tungnath every year. Views from here are simply breathtaking. Trekking to Tungnath temple can be started both from Chopta and Sari village. Most of the companies provide Tungnath trek package from Chopta but some are there who provide package from sari village.
Recommended for you- Chopta Tungnath Trek Package
Chopta to Tungnath Distance: The Trek Details
The Chopta Tungnath trek is one of the most popular and easy treks of the Garhwal Himalayas, which makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
- Distance and Time
The Chopta to Tungnath distance is approximately 3.5 to 4 kilometres (2.2 to 2.5 miles).
- Time : It typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete the ascent, depending on your fitness level and pace. The descent is usually quicker, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Trek Difficulty
This trek is considered easy to moderate because Chopta to Tungnath distance is very less and path is well defined and paved with stones for most of the way, and all this development makes it less challenging than other Himalayan treks. However, the continuous uphill climbing to the high altitude can be strenuous for some trekkers, especially for those who are not acclimatised to the high altitude.
-The Trail Experience
As you start your trek from Chopta, you’ll be welcomed by the verdant meadows that gradually give way to more rugged, alpine landscapes. This trek takes you through the rhododendron bushes, which burst into vibrant colours during spring (March to May). As you continue walking along the trail, you’ll encounter some small tea stalls which offer refreshment, especially during the peak season. As you gain high altitude, the panoramic views of famous peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba start to unfold and give you constant motivation to continue your ascent. The mountain air becomes crisp, and the silence is occasionally broken only by the birds' chirping or the rustling of leaves.
Tungnath to Chandrashila Peak
For those travellers who are seeking a more spectacular view, your journey doesn’t end at Tungnath Temple ; there is an additional trek of 1.5 Km from the Tungnath Temple, which leads you to the Chandrashila Peak
Chandrashila: The Moon Rock Summit
Chandrashila Peak, which means “Moon Rock”, is situated at an altitude of about 4,000 meters above sea level. This trek is famous for offering a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan Ranges, which includes some of India's most majestic peaks like Gauri Parbat, Hathi Parbat, Mt. Trishul, Dronagiri and Mt. Nanda devi . At the summit of this trek you will also get a small temple, as per the holy scriptures it is believed that at this point lord Rama did penance to get rid of Brahmahatya.
-Trek Distance and Time
- Distance : From Tungnath, the trek to Chandrashila Peak is approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles).
- Time : Tungnath to Chandrashila trek distance is just 1.5 kms from one side, which can be covered in 1 to 2 hours.
-The Summit Experience
The trek from Tungnath temple to Chandrashila is steeper and a bit more challenging than the Chopta to Tungnath Trail, especially towards the very end of the trek, but your efforts to reach will be more rewarded. Reaching the summit, particularly when the sun starts to rise, is an unforgettable experience. The first ray of the sun falls on the snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch, and Chaukhamba, creating a magical scenery of colours that will be etched in your memory forever.
Distance of Chopta Tungnath from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun
Chopta is well-connected by road, making it accessible from major cities and towns in Uttarakhand and beyond.
-Chopta To Tungnath Distance From Delhi
- By Road and Train : The most common way to reach Chopta from Delhi is by road. The total distance is approximately 450-470 kilometers (280-292 miles).
- Route : Delhi -> Meerut -> Haridwar -> Rishikesh -> Devprayag -> Srinagar -> Rudraprayag -> Kund -> Ukhimath -> Chopta -> Tungnath -> Chandrashila.
- Time : The journey can take 10-12 hours by car or bus, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Bus/Taxi : You can take a bus from Delhi to Rishikesh or Haridwar, and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to Chopta. Direct taxis from Delhi to Chopta are also available but are more expensive.
- Train : You can also reach Delhi to Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun by train, which will take 3 to 6 hours to reach, and from there you have to take roadways to reach Chopta.
-Chopta To Tungnath Distance From Haridwar
By Road : Haridwar is a major railway station and a popular starting point.
- Distance : Approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles).
- Route : Haridwar -> Rishikesh -> Devprayag -> Srinagar -> Rudraprayag -> Kund -> Ukhimath -> Chopta -> Tungnath -> Chandrashila
- Time : The journey takes about 7-8 hours.
- Bus/Taxi : Regular buses and shared taxis are available from Haridwar to Ukhimath, from where you can take local taxis to Chopta.
- Chopta To Tungnath Distance From Rishikesh
By Road : Rishikesh is another popular base for travellers heading to the Himalayas.
- Distance: Approximately 200 kilometres (124 miles).
- Route: Rishikesh -> Devprayag -> Srinagar -> Rudraprayag -> Kund -> Ukhimath -> Chopta -> Tungnath -> Chandrashila.
- Time: The journey takes about 6-7 hours.
- Bus/Taxi: Buses and shared taxis frequently run from Rishikesh to Ukhimath. From Ukhimath, local taxis or jeeps can be hired for the final stretch to Chopta. (approx. 30 km).
-Chopta Tungnath Distance From Dehradun
By Road: Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, also serves as a gateway.
- Distance: Approximately 250 kilometres (155 miles).
- Route: Dehradun -> Rishikesh -> Devprayag -> Srinagar -> Rudraprayag -> Kund -> Ukhimath -> Chopta -> Tungnath -> Chandrashila.
- Time: The journey takes approximately 8-9 hours.
- Bus/Taxi: Take a bus/taxi to Rishikesh. Direct buses or taxis can be taken to Ukhimath, followed by a local transfer to Chopta.
Important Travel Tips:
- Road Conditions: Mountain roads are tough, especially during monsoon (July-September) due to landslides. Check road conditions before you go.
- Accommodation: Chopta has very limited options from basic guesthouses to Swiss tents. Book in advance especially during peak season.
- Essentials: Carry warm clothes, rain gear, trekking shoes, first aid kit, water and snacks.
- Altitude Sickness: Acclimatise properly, stay hydrated and ascend slowly to avoid altitude sickness.
Conclusion
The trek from Chopta to Tungnath takes you to the sacred temple of Lord Shiva and continues for 1.5 km, then takes you to panoramic Chandrashila Peak, which offers an unparalleled blend of spiritual energy and natural grandeur. It's a journey that refreshes your mind, body, and inner soul, leaving trekkers with unforgettable memories of the majestic Himalayas. No matter if you are a devout pilgrim, a curious trekker, or simply a nature lover, this journey promises you an unforgettable experience that will draw you back to the serene embrace of Uttrakhand’s mountains time and again. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready for a Himalayan adventure.
Chopta to Tungnath distance FAQ'S
How long is Chopta Tungnath trek ?
Chopta Tungnath is a short trek with well marked trekking route. One way distance of tunanth temple from chopta is of 3.5 kms (one side).
Is Chopta tungnath trek difficult ?
No Chopta tungnath trek is chategorised as an easy trek. It is best suited for new trekkers, willing to have a glimpse of some of the most famous snow capped peak of Himalaya. Chopta to Tungnath trek distance is of just 3.5 kms (one side) and can be completed in a time span of 2-3 hours, depending upon the speed of trekker.
Can we go to Tungnath by Car ?
No there are no road available for Tungnath temple. Last motorable road is till Chopta. Only way to reach there is by trekking and the distance of Chopta to Tungnath temple is of 3.5 kms from one side.
Can we go to Chopta by Car ?
Yes, definetely you can reach Chopta by car. Last motorable road for Chopta Tungnath trek is till Chopta valley and you can reach here both from Ukhimath and Nandprayag side. Keep note that this driving is in forest region with numerous hairpin bend, so it's recommended to drive here with an expert driver with vast driving experience on such road.
Can we Complete Tungnath Trek in One Day ?
Yes, Tungnath temple is located at just a distance of 3.5 Kms from the Chopta valley, which will take you 2 to 3 hours to complete one side trek. So you can easily complete this trek in one day.
Is registration required for Tungnath ?
No, there is just a short trek of 3.5 kms from Chopta to Tungnath temple. You can visit here without any registration. Only the forest department permission is required, which you can easily get from the couter located at the Tungnath trek starting point i.e. at Chopta.
How far is Tungnath trek from one side ?
The starting point of Tungnath trek is Chopta which is located at a distance of 3.5 kms from one side.
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