Chopta is often called the "Mini Switzerland of India" — a pristine meadow at 2,680m in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. The trail to Tungnath, the world's highest Shiva temple, winds through dense rhododendron forests that burst crimson and pink in spring, and turn into a winter wonderland under snow.
Above Tungnath lies Chandrashila — the Moon Rock — offering a breathtaking 360° panorama of Himalayan giants: Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, Chaukhamba and Bandarpoonch. This is beginner-friendly trekking at its most spectacular.
World's Highest Shiva Temple
Tungnath at 3,680m — one of the Panch Kedar temples, a deeply revered pilgrimage site.
Chandrashila Summit
At 4,130m — a 360° panorama of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba and Kedar Peak.
Rhododendron Forests
Walk through vibrant red and pink forests — magical in spring, snowy in winter.
Beginner-Friendly Trail
Easy–moderate grade. Well-defined path. Perfect for first-time Himalayan trekkers.
Year-Round Destination
Summer blooms, monsoon mists, autumn clarity, and magical winter snow treks.
Sunrise at Summit
Witness a golden Himalayan sunrise from Chandrashila — one of India's finest views.
Haridwar → Chopta Drive
Early morning departure from Haridwar/Rishikesh. Scenic drive through Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath. Arrive Chopta by evening. Dinner and overnight at guesthouse/camp.
Chopta to Tungnath Temple Trek
After breakfast, begin the trek from Chopta (2,680m) to Tungnath Temple (3,680m). A beautiful 3.5km trail through dense rhododendron forests. Visit the ancient temple. Overnight at Tungnath / Chopta camp.
- 6:00 AM: Breakfast at camp
- 7:00 AM: Trek begins from Chopta trailhead
- 8:00–10:30 AM: Trek through rhododendron & oak forests
- 10:30 AM: Arrive at Tungnath Temple (3,680m)
- 11:00 AM: Darshan at the world's highest Shiva temple
- 12:30 PM: Packed lunch at the meadow
- 2:00 PM: Optional short hike / rest & acclimatize
- 6:30 PM: Dinner and campfire at Chopta
Chandrashila Summit (4,130m)
Pre-dawn start for Chandrashila summit at 4,130m — the Moon Rock. Witness a spectacular Himalayan sunrise with views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba and Kedar Peak. Descend to Chopta by afternoon.
- 4:00 AM: Wake up — hot tea and light snack
- 4:30 AM: Start pre-dawn ascent to Chandrashila
- 6:00–6:30 AM: Arrive summit — watch sunrise over Himalayas
- 7:30 AM: Descend to Tungnath, second darshan
- 9:30 AM: Breakfast at Chopta camp
- 11:00 AM: Rest / explore Chopta meadow
- Evening: Campfire, storytelling, hot dinner
Chopta → Haridwar — Journey Home
Morning tea at Chopta with final Himalayan views. After breakfast, begin the drive back to Haridwar/Rishikesh via the scenic Garhwal highway. Arrive by evening — filled with memories of India's highest temple.
Included
Not Included
Standing at Chandrashila at sunrise, watching the first golden light hit Nanda Devi — I broke down crying. It was the most spiritually overwhelming experience. The trail through red rhododendrons on Day 2 is simply magical. Our guide Deepak was exceptional.
We did this in January — completely snow-covered! Walking through waist-high snow to reach Tungnath felt surreal. Tungnath in winter is otherworldly. Excellent arrangements, warm food, and top-quality gear provided. Our first trek and we're already planning the next one!
Yes! Chopta–Tungnath is rated Easy–Moderate. The trail is well-defined and the altitude gain is gradual. Even first-timers with basic fitness can complete it comfortably. Our guides pace the group appropriately. Minimum age is 8 years.
Every season has charm! Feb–Apr: rhododendrons in full bloom — most photogenic. May–Jun: clear Himalayan views. Sep–Nov: crisp air, best visibility. Dec–Feb: stunning snow trek — Tungnath under snow is magical but requires warm gear. July–Aug: lush green but some rain.
Basic fitness is sufficient. You should be able to walk 4–5km comfortably. We recommend starting daily walks of 3–4km at least 2 weeks before the trek. No special training required. The altitude gain is 1,000m from Chopta to Tungnath — manageable for most people.
The temple is officially open May–November. In winter (Dec–April), the temple is closed for pooja but the trek is still possible and magical under snow. The idol is moved to Ukhimath village during winter months. Check current status when booking.
Haridwar is well-connected by train and bus from Delhi (4–5 hours). Nearest airports are Dehradun (Jolly Grant — 50km) and Delhi (300km). We can also pick up from Rishikesh. Our team will coordinate your pickup time after booking.