Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek: Detailed Itinerary, Cost & Route Guide

There is nothing like watching the sunrise from the Himalayas. When the bright golden rays gradually light up the beautiful peaks like Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, and Trishul, one understands why thousands of trekkers flock to the state of Uttarakhand each year. While there are several Himalayan treks to choose from, the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek is the best.

With its stunning scenery, spiritual significance, thick forests, and an easier route, the Chopta Tungnath Trek is the ideal choice for a first-time trekker. If you are considering the trek from Delhi for the weekend or for a long holiday in the mountains, here is all that you should know about the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek.

Why Choose the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek?

• Trek Location: Uttarakhand
• Start Point: Chopta
• Highest Point of Trek: Chandrashila Peak (approx. 13,100 feet)
• Total Trek Length: Approx 5 kilometers (one-way)

The trek is easy to moderate and takes around 2 Nights/3 Days. The best time to go on this memorable trek is from March to June and from October to December.

Trekking in itself is considered difficult, but the Chopta Tungnath Trek will make you forget that and take you through the dense, lush green forests of the Himalayas, with open meadows and breathtaking views.

Quick Trek Overview

• Trek Location: Uttarakhand
• Trek Start Point: Chopta
• Trek Highest Point: Chandrashila Peak (approx. 13,100 feet)
• Trek Length: Approx. 5 kilometers one-way
• Trek Difficulty: easy to moderate
• Trek Duration: 2 Nights/ 3 Days
• Trek Best Time: March to June and October to December

This trek is an excellent choice if you are looking for a great adventure in Chopta, Uttarakhand.

How to Reach Chopta

If you want to go on a Chopta Tungnath trek, you must first find your way to the starting point in Chopta – a small hill station often referred to as “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”.

By Air

The closest airport to Chopta is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 220km from Chopta.

By Train

Haridwar or Rishikesh is the closest railway station to Chopta, and from here you can arrange your own taxi transfer or take a shared vehicle.

By Road

Chopta can be reached by road from Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, or Ukhimath. The majority of trekkers choose to drive from Delhi, taking approximately 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Detailed Chopta Tungnath Trek Itinerary

A good itinerary for a Chopta Tungnath trek allows you to hike at a relaxed pace without rushing.

Day 1: Arrive at Chopta

Most people arriving in Chopta will do so on the afternoon/evening of the first day.

While driving to Chopta via the winding mountain roads, you will see the scenery gradually change from busy towns to dense forests and beautiful valleys. Upon arriving in Chopta, find a campsite or guesthouse to spend the night, then enjoy the cool mountain air.

What you can do:

• Hike around the meadows that surround it
• Watch the sun set behind the mountains
• Get used to being at that elevation
• Prepare your equipment for the next day’s hiking
• Spend the night in Chopta

Day 2: Chopta to Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit

This is one of the highlights of taking the Chopta Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek.

Starting your trek early in the morning is ideal, especially before sunrise! The trek starts in Chopta and follows a well-paved trail to Tungnath Temple.

Chopta to Tungnath:

Distance: Approx. 3.5 km

As you begin your ascent up the well-marked route, it will take you through beautiful alpine forests. In springtime, the trail is filled with colorful rhododendron flowers, and in winter, it turns into a white winter wonderland!

After approximately 2–3 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Tungnath Temple.

This temple is over a thousand years old and one of the five sacred Panch Kedar shrines of Lord Shiva.

Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit:

Distance: Approx. 1.5 km

The last climb becomes more challenging, but the sight from the top is incredible!

As you get closer to the top, the views will also get more and more impressive. On a clear day, you will be able to see uninterrupted views of the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayan ranges.

Reaching the summit could be one of the most incredible highlights of your Chopta Tungnath Trek.

At the summit, take some time to enjoy this fantastic view before heading back down to Chopta.

Overnight stay in Chopta.

Day 3: Departure

Return after breakfast. Make some time for additional sightseeing in the surrounding area before heading back toward Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Delhi, as many travelers do by visiting Deoria Tal and Ukhimath.

The following is a very short and straightforward trek itinerary for a weekend trip to Chopta and Tungnath.

Chopta Tungnath Trek Cost Breakdown

One of the reasons travelers love this trek is its affordability. The overall cost of the Chopta Tungnath trek depends on your travel style, accommodation preferences, and transportation choices.

Budget Traveler

• Transportation: ₹2,000–₹3,500
• Accommodation: ₹800–₹1,500
• Meals: ₹500–₹1,000
• Miscellaneous Expenses: ₹500

Approximate Total: ₹4,000–₹6,000 per person

Mid-Range Traveler

• Transportation: ₹3,000–₹5,000
• Accommodation: ₹2,000–₹4,000
• Meals: ₹1,000–₹1,500
• Miscellaneous Expenses: ₹1,000

Approximate Total: ₹7,000–₹12,000 per person

Trek Package Cost

Many tour operators offer a complete package for the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek, including transportation, accommodation, food, and a guide.

The package price typically ranges from 6,500 to 12,000 per person based on how many things are included (and the season).

Best Time for the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila Trek

Each season provides a unique experience.

Spring (March to April)

Rhododendrons bloom, bringing new life to the forest and creating an exceptional scene along this trail.

Summer (May to June)

Both pleasant weather and clear trails provide great conditions for the record number of people who trek this trail.

Autumn (October to November)

The sky is crystal clear, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and excellent photo opportunities.

Winter (December to February)

Snow transforms the area into a winter wonderland, making the trek from Chopta to Tungnath to Chandrashila extremely popular with those who love snow.

What to Pack

Packing smart can make your trek significantly more comfortable.

Essentials include:

• Waterproof trekking shoes
• Warm layers
• Gloves and woolen cap
• Rain jacket
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Reusable water bottle
• Power bank
• Basic first-aid kit

Even during summer, temperatures can drop significantly in the morning and evening.

Trekking Tips for First-Time Visitors

If this is going to be your first adventure in the Himalayas, here are some pointers you can consider:

• Begin trekking early in the morning to avoid afternoon weather changes.
• Maintain a relaxed speed when hiking.
• Drink water regularly while trekking.
• Do not burden yourself with additional weights.
• Show reverence to local traditions.
• Avoid throwing garbage on the route.

The Chopta Tungnath Trek is quite a safe trek for beginners.

Final Thoughts

The Chopta Tungnath Trek is a lot more than just a trek; it’s an experience through some of the most beautiful scenery in Uttarakhand. Every moment is special, from the spiritual feel of the Tungnath Temple to the incredible sunrise over the Chandrashila Summit.

If you are looking for adventure, a place to take great photos, spiritual experiences, or just an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, you will find it all within a compact space by doing the Chopta Tungnath Trek.

For anyone wanting to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without going on a major expedition, this is one of the best options in India. Once you stand on the summit of Chandrashila watching the clouds float beneath you, you will understand why so many trekkers keep coming back.

FAQs About Chopta Tungnath Trek

How much budget for Tungnath trek?

Generally, the cost of trekking to Tungnath is between ₹3,000 and ₹7,000 per person for a 2-3-day independent trip. Organized trekking packages from major travel hubs such as Delhi typically cost ₹4,500- ₹6,000 per person. The total amount you will spend depends on whether you choose to go DIY or use a tour operator.

How many days are enough for Tungnath trek?

The duration for completing the Tungnath trek is about 2-3 days. This will give you enough time to start the hike in Chopta, visit the Tungnath Temple, make your way up to the Chandrashila peak, and descend comfortably.

What is the entry fee for Chopta trek?

The price for organizing the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrasila trek generally ranges from ₹4,500 to ₹7,000 for a standard 2-night/3-day organized trek package. Package prices generally include transport (from Delhi/Rishikesh), tents for overnight camping, meals during the trip, and a trek guide.