Chopta Trek, Uttarakhand: Mini Switzerland in India
Introduction
Uttarakhand is known for its Himalayan natural environment, one of its beauty is Chopta which is far away from the noisy horns of the city and other hill stations.
Chopta is a beautiful yet unexplored hamlet for travelers, it is also known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand’. The morning views from Chopta are exhilarating as the bright red sun touches the snow-capped Himalayas.
Chopta Trek Beauty
A picturesque canyon of lush green meadows surrounded by towering pines and oaks, the Chopta Trek is popular with trekkers and campers.
The trek begins in Haridwar or you can start it from another town of your choice, and continues to Sari where the base camp is set up. The trek from Sari first leads to Lake Deoriatal, which reflects the spectacular scenery of the Greater Himalayas and has earned the nickname ‘his two worlds in one place.
Love trekking then you can also do the sar pass circuit trek.
The hike then leads to Tungnath via Chopta. Tungnathis one of the five ‘Naths’ scattered with the five body parts of Lord Shiva. Ultimately, the adventure reaches Chandrasila Peak before returning. Located at an altitude of about 13,000 feet, this peak offers spectacular panoramic views of the various Himalayan ranges including Nandadevi, Trisur, Kedah Peak, Bandarpanch, and Chaukamba. On the way, you will pass Rohini Bugyal, one of Chopra’s most tranquil and pleasant pastures.
Chopta Trekking
Chopta is famous for trekking and there are many trekking routes in the area. One of the best treks for beginners, the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrasila trek is considered one of the great weekend treks in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Chopta Trek Package
Chopta Trek Package for 6 Nights and 7 Days is ₹23,099/, with the facilities of 2 Stars, Meals, Sightseeing, Stay Included, and Transfers.
Treks in Chopta Region
1. Chopta Tungnath Trek
Temperature at Tungnath is about 32°C to 15°C.
Trek Distance: 18km
Maximum altitude: 4,000 meters above sea level
Known as the third temple of Panch Kedah, Thungnath is the highest temple of Lord Shiva at an altitude of 3700m. The entire trek to Tungnath Temple is organized by cemented treks. Chopta Tungnath Trek Package for 3 Days / 2 Nights is Rs. 4,500.00.
Every year many trekkers join this Tungnath snow trek to experience his view of the breathtaking and mesmerizing Himalayan panorama. The trek passes through many small villages at the summit such as Rudraprayag, Devprayag, and Sari villages. Deoriatal Lake in between is the best spot for this trek. The shimmering, sparkling water of the lake looks inviting, but the water is cold. Take the opportunity to explore the forest trails and giant maple, oak, and pine trees along the lakeshore.
The Tungnath Trek consists of scenic waterfalls, greenery, forest trails, and the stunning snow-capped mountains of the Garhwal Himalayas.
It is located at an altitude of 12,073 ft in the Tungnath Ranges in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. The Tungnath Trek is famous and is considered the easiest trek in India.
The base camp for this trek is Chalkot, a quiet, lush meadow in the Chopta Valley.
2. Chopta Chandrashilla Trek
Trek Distance: 5 Kms (one side)
To reach Chandrashila, you must first reach Tungnath. It takes a steep climb to reach the 4,000-meter peak with 360-degree views of the Himalayas. The trek to Chandrasila becomes considerably more difficult when it snows, but equally rewarding.
Chopta Chandrashila Deoriatal can be a window into the Himalayan Spring Color Flame. It is a popular hike for climbers of all kinds. This hike is lined with pink and red rhododendron blooms in the summer, and the snow blurs the colors in the winter. The entire tour includes a dive to Chandrasila Peak, a series of snow-capped peaks down the shores of the enchanting Deoria Valley. Chopt-Chandrashila-Deorital is truly a treasure trove of nature, a great place for birdwatchers and photographers.
Chandrasila is one of the few mountains in Uttarakhand where trekking is possible even in winter. It is famous for its 360-degree views of the Himalayas.
Best time to visit the Chopta Trek
During the summer months, between April and June, and during winter, October and December is the best time to visit and experience the crystal clear scenery of the Himalayas.
Chopta has good weather during the summer season. You can see the Himalayas and feel the cool breeze in the morning and evening. However, it is advisable to bring light woolen clothes.
During the monsoon season, Chopta slims down. A raincoat is recommended in winter. Trekking becomes more difficult and landslides can block roads. However, Chopta’s dramatic beauty during the monsoon season is very risky.
How to get to Chopta Chandrasila Trek from Delhi
You can reach Chopta Chandrasila Trek from Delhi by plane, train, and car. If you’re arriving by air, the closest airport is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, just about 225 kilometers from Chopta.
Once at the airport, you can hire an airport taxi or cab or rely on private and government buses. If traveling by train, the closest train station is Haridwar Chopta Railway Station, 225 kilometers from Delhi. Take a bus or taxi from the train station to Chopta via Kund-Gopeshwar Road. If you’re interested in traveling by car, Chopta is 408 kilometers from Delhi. It offers great views during the ride. You can travel by self-driving car, bus, or taxi. Buses are the cheapest way to travel and offer a different life experience.
Chopta Tungnath Trek from Delhi
Start Time of the trek- End Time of the trek from Delhi: 10:30 PM to 5:00 AM/ 6:00 AM, and the pick-up and drop point from Delhi is near Akshardham Metro Station.
Chopta Tungnath Trek from Rishikesh
Start Time – End Time from Rishikesh: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM/7:00 PM, and pick-up and drop point from Rishikesh is Natraj Chowk or Rishikesh ISBT.
Conclusion
Chopta is a hidden paradise in the Garhwal Himalayas, surrounded by Bugyal or velvety meadows and pristine snow-capped mountains. It is a wonderland with pleasant summers, crisp monsoons, and snow.
Food/water in Chopta during the trek: Carry your water during the trek. There are several huts on the trek where you can enjoy hot tea with biscuits, Maggi, and lunch. Mostly open during the season when Thunnath Temple is open. It is otherwise closed and hikers are advised to carry a backpack with a packed lunch, juice, or water. Bangs/Bearers in Chopta.
Chopta Trek offers campers the opportunity to explore the vast, shimmering snow expanses that stretch across the Himalayas.
Wake up to a cool, healthy breeze and birdsong in Chopta, This peaceful residence is surrounded by pines, cedars, rhododendrons, and other conifers found in the area, making Chopta rich in flora and fauna.
