How to Plan Chopta Tungnath Trek – Complete Travel Itinerary

Are you planning to go on a Himalayan trip that combines amazing views, some serenity, and a hint of adventure? Then take the Chopta Tungnath Trek. Located in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region, it takes you to meadows, rhododendron forests, and to the world’s highest Shiva temple at Tungnath. Known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Chopta is a great starting point for this trek as it provides views of the Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks.

This guide is meant to help you plan a trip to the Chopta Tungnath Trek which goes from the best time to visit to a fully fleshed out Chopta Tungnath Trek itinerary. If you are a beginner trekker, you can lookout Tungnath Chandrashila Trek tips, if you are an adventurist looking to do a weekend trip from Delhi, you are also welcome. You will collect the tools needed to tell your trekking story in Uttarakhand. Let’s go!

Why should you do the Chopta Tungnath Trek? 

With that out of the way, there is a reason that the Chopta Tungnath Trek is special. Every trek is special and combines great adventure and natural beauty. This trek is special, because along with adventure, there is a spiritual aspect to it. This trek goes to the Tungnath Temple, which is a part of the sacred Panch Kedar. This trek is also one of the oldest as the temple is said to be built over a thousand years ago. The temple is said to be built by the Pandavas as a sin offering which is a story from the Mahabharata.

Yet, it’s the pure charm of the region that is craved the most. Picture yourself trekking through verdant meadows, spotting Himalayan Monals, and finally reaching Chandrashila Peak at 4,000 meters, where you enjoy a 360-degree view of the Garhwal Himalayas. The distance from Chopta to Tungnath, which is approximately 3.5 km one way, is easy and can be taken by the whole family, solo travellers, and beginners. To the day, you can add the optional 1.5 km trek to Chandrashila, from where the view can take your breath away and will be worth every step.

Due to the consistent growth of development around Uttarakhand, a big spike in post-monsoon tourism is expected in Uttarakhand for the upcoming 2025 year. This is predicted because of the tourism growth in Uttarakhand, especially around Chopta Tungnath. It can be expected that there will be clearer skies and perfect hiking weather along with a significant decrease in the population around the trekking area. Best Time to Visit Chopta Tungnath Trek

When planning your Chopta Tungnath Trek, the best time to visit is between the months of April to November, where the conditions are nice, paths are free of snow and the rhododendrons are blooming. I have divided this section by season for your convenience.

Spring (April to June): Blooming Paradise

This is prime time for the Tungnath Chandrashila Trek. The weather will be very nice, between the 10-25°C, and the sky clear which is perfect to see the Himalayas. During this time the forests will also be blooming with Buransh (rhododendron) flowers which will make the trail very beautiful. There will also be a lot of flowers for the photographers to capture. Just make sure to plan your trip ahead of time because this is the peak of the pilgrimage and you will need to make a reservation. The forests will be blooming with flowers and be very beautiful with plenty of things to guess and capture. If you have a problem with altitude sickness, you should avoid this trek because the paths are slippery and a sudden thaw is likely to occur.

Monsoon (July to August): Lush but Risky

This is not a trip to be taken lightly during this time of the year. Even though the greenery develops quite coincidently, the rain poses a threat to the Chopta Tungnath Trek because of land sliding. While you wait for the rain to clear, you can remain active by taking small hikes for the day.

Let’s Make Memories in Autumn (September to November)

September to November is always nice after the rain spell – with temperatures between 5 to 20 degrees Celsius – great for taking in the views. The golden meadows and chilly weather are perfect for taking sunrise pictures at Chandrashila. You can have an empty Himalayan trek during these months as the crowds are minimal and spiritual Himalaya trekking is for the most part a solitary activity. By November, the winter season starts with some light frost, so be aware of frost on the roads.

An Adventure in Winter (December to March)

The winter season is for the adventure seekers, and for the trekkers, winter brings snow! Chandrashila is a frozen wonder, but be prepared for temperatures between -5 to 5 degrees Celsius and road closures after Duggalbitta. It is moderately difficult to find and hire a local guide for snowshoeing, but winter trekking snow gear is a requirement. 2025 is predicted to be warmer due to El Niño, and snow levels will be lower so track winter weather.

Chopta Tungnath Trek 2025 is best in mid-October to catch the golden hour. The Uttarakhand Tourism site is always updated, and check it for Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary permit information. Permits are mandatory for entry.

Getting to Start the Trek in Chopta

Getting to Chopta is part of the adventure with winding roads providing beautiful views of the Himalayas framed by the Alaknanda Valley. The closest large place is Rishikesh, so it is a 220 km drive to Chopta and a perfect place to plan your Chopta Tungnath Trek to Rishikesh, Delhi, or any other city.

By Air

Fly to Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, which is 200 km from Chopta (5-6 hours drive). Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate daily flights from Delhi (1-hour flight). From the airport, hire a taxi (₹4,000-5,000) or shared jeep to Ukhimath, then switch to local transport to Chopta (13 km further).

By Train

The closest railhead is Haridwar Junction (HW) which is 230 km away (7-8 hours). The overnight trains like the Shatabdi from Delhi arrive in the morning. From Haridwar, GMOU buses (₹300-400) or taxis (₹5,000) go to Rudraprayag, then to Ukhimath/Chopta.

By Road: The Scenic Drive

– From Delhi (450 km, 10-12 hours): Take NH334 to Haridwar, then NH58 via Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath. It’s better to self-drive in an SUV for those hairpin bends; buses leave from Kashmiri Gate ISBT (₹800-1,000). Overnight options: Stop at Rishikesh for a Ganga Aarti.

– From Rishikesh (220 km, 7 hours): Direct shared taxis (₹500) or buses to Ukhimath, then auto-rickshaws (₹200) to Chopta.

– Note: There’s a “fake” Chopta near Rudraprayag—head via Agastmuni-Ukhimath for the real one!

For group travel, join organized Chopta Tungnath Trek packages from Rishikesh (₹2,500-4,000/person, including transport). In 2025, expect e-rickshaws from Chopta to the trailhead for eco-friendly access.

Chopta Tungnath Trek Detailed Itinerary: 4-Day Plan

Here’s a complete travel itinerary for the Chopta Tungnath Trek for a weekend trip from Delhi. This 4-day plan covers 10-12 km and is built around the idea of trekking, and relaxation. For longer stays, include Deoriatal Lake in the itinerary.

Day 0: Departure from Delhi/Rishikesh

Evening: Get on a bus/train from Delhi (8 PM) or make the drive from Rishikesh (you will leave at 6 AM the next day).

Overnight: You will be in Rishikesh for the Ganga views.

Day 1: Arrive in Chopta – Acclimatize and Explore

Morning: Arrive Chopta by 2-3 PM (2,680m). Eco-camps and guesthouses (₹1,000-2,000/night) check in.

Afternoon: Stroll through rhododendron and oak and acclimatize to avoid altitude issues; light walking for acclimatization.

Evening: Enjoy the evening Chopta is offering starry sky and bonfire.

Distance: Minimal. Meals: Lunch on the way, dinner at the Chopta camps.

Stay: Chopta camps.

Day 2: Trek to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Summit

Early Morning: Get ready and have breakfast (oats, parathas) and at 8 AM set out to Tungnath. It’s 3.5 km to Tungnath and (1.5-2 hours) the trail is of steady incline.

– Midday: Arrive at Tungnath (3,680m) and give offerings at the temple. It’s cool how the old architecture flows with the mountains. Time for a packed lunch!

– Afternoon: Take a steep 1.5 km extend to Chandrashila (4,000m) for 360° views. Nanda Devi twinkles like a diamond. Then, at 4 PM, you will descend to Chopta (7 km round trip).

– Evening: Unwind with a cup of herbal tea. Time to share your stories with your fellow trekkers.

– Difficulty: Easy-moderate; 600m gain. Remember to hydrate! Ponies to rent are available for ₹500.

– Stay: Chopta.

Day 3: Optional Deoriatal Extension or Buffer Day.

– If you are for the adventure: Drive for 20 km (1 hour) to Sari Village and trek 2.5 km (1.5 hour trek) to Deoriatal Lake (2,400m). You can get a cool reflection of Chaukhamba and you may camp lakeside for ₹1,500.

– Other than this, you can use this day as a buffer for bad weather and explore the Tibet market in Chopta or yoga session.

– Evening: You will Return to Chopta, and have a farewell dinner with momos and rajma chawal.

– Distance: 5 km if you are extending.

Day 4: Departure with Memories.

– You will have a leisurely breakfast and this will be your day to shop for woolens and local apples.

– After lunch, you will leave for Rishikesh/Delhi and reach there by evening.

– For the best experience with the trek, extend it to 5 days to also include Deoriatal.

It leaves room for spontaneous picnics.

What to Pack for the Chopta Tungnath Trek

Smart packing will help you enjoy your Tungnath Trek even more. Think in layers because the temperature can change from 5 to 25 degrees Celsius. Essentials include:

Clothing

• Some thermals/base layers and merino wool for moisture-wicking.
• Fleece jackets and windproof shells for the Chandrashila winds.
• Quick-dry trekking pants, 2-3 t-shirts, woolen cap/gloves.
• Sturdy, waterproof, and broken-in trekking shoes (especially for monsoons!)

Gear and Essentials

• Daypacks (20-30L), trekking poles (cuts knee strain by 25% come in handy especially during downhill treks)
• 2L water bottles, and some hydrating salts; energy bars and nuts for some quick munchies.
• Personal meds (dialox for altitude), sunscreen (SPF 50+), some shades and a hat.
• Power bank, personal ID/proof; take an eco-bag for trash (leave no trace!).

For Spirituality and Comfort

• Some prayer items if visiting Tungnath; some reusable utensils.
• A sleeping bag liner for camps because the temperature drops to 5 degrees and sleeping bags get cold.

Budget: ₹5,000-8,000 for gear if you’re planning to buy new. You can rent gear in Rishikesh for ₹500 a day.

Accommodation and Food Options in Chopta

Chopta is really beautiful and for tourists it offers the best comfy and rustic accommodations. Think Swiss tents with mountain views.

Stays

• Budget: GMVN Tourist Rest House (₹1000/night, dorms available as well).
• Mid-Range: Eco-camps like Monal Resort (₹1,500, Swiss tents with attached baths).
• Luxury: Private lodges (₹3,000, hot showers). You can book them via Uttarakhand Tourism or via booking apps like Booking.com. For Tungnath Chandrashila Trek packages every 3 days, stays for during the trek is included (₹3,000-6,000).

Food

Have you tried the spinach curry called kafuli? It is one of the best Garhwali meals to have with mandua ki roti, bal mithai for dessert, and finger millet flatbread. You can also get some vegetarian meals at the camps for around ₹150-300. There is also no alcohol served near the temple. You can also have some rhododendron juice. It is refreshing and has some great antioxidants!

Safety Tips and Precautions for Chopta Tungnath Trek

This is most beginner Himalayan trek for a reason. It is heavily moderated at 4.5 km in under 45 minutes. While everyone should be able to do the trek, it is the prep that is the most important.

• Health: Make sure you have the right info and see a doctor. Get some altitude sickness info. Descend immediately.
• Trail Tips: You must follow the marked paths. It is best to get a guide for winters. You can get one for around ₹1,000/day and a forest permit from Ukhimath for ₹150.
• Weather: You will have to avoid monsoon landslides and carry the right first-aid.
• Econ-Friendly: You can make sure there is no plastic waste and get support from locals.
• Women Solo: It is safe with groups. Make sure your family is informed.

You will be able to get offline maps in 2025 with All Trails.

Budget Breakdown for Chopta Tungnath Trek

You can have a great and affordable 4 day solo trek from Delhi for the following:

Category         Estimated Cost (₹)

Transport (Bus + Local)         1,500-2,500

Accommodation (3 nights)    2,000-4,000

Food (Meals)  1,000-1,500

Trek Permit/Guide     500-1,000

Misc (Snacks/Gear Rent)       1,000

Total   6,000-10,000

Groups save 20-30% via packaged deals. You can add ₹2,000 for Deoriatal.

Most Common Questions about Chopta Tungnath Trek

1. Is the Chopta Tungnath Trek beginner friendly?

Definitely, the Chopta Tungnath Trek caters to beginners due to its moderate level of difficulty and small distance. It’s only 3.5 K to Tungnath, and 5 K if you include Chandrashila. As long as you can walk 4-5 kilometers you will feel comfortable. Ponies are also available if you need extra support.

2. How long does it take to complete the Chopta Tungnath Trek?

It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to trek to Tungnath which is 3.5 km and 1 hour extra to climb Chandrashila which is an extra 1.5 km. When you take into account breaks, visiting the temple, and coming back, the entire trek takes 5-6 hours.

3. Can I do the Chopta Tungnath Trek in a single day?

This is possible if you plan to start early, around 8 a.m. Most travellers plan this trek for a long weekend, especially those coming from Delhi or Rishikesh. Just make sure to return before dark.

4. Is it necessary to have a guide for the Chopta Tungnath Trek?

In the summer and autumn, a guide is not necessary as the trails are easy to navigate. However in winter, the trails are covered in snow and it is best to have a guide accompany you if it is your first time. Guides charge around 1000 rupees for the day.

5. What is the altitude of Tungnath and Chandrashila?

Tungnath Temple sits at an altitude of 3,680 meters and Chandrashila Peak is at 4,000 meters. To mitigate altitude sickness, it is advised to acclimatize at Chopta (2,680m) which is at a lower altitude.

6. Are there any permits required for the Chopta Tungnath Trek?

Yes, you need a forest permit (₹150) from the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary office in Ukhimath. This is a quick and easy process. All trekkers need to complete this step before starting the trek.

7. Can I camp during the Chopta Tungnath Trek?

Yes, you can camp in Chopta and around Deoriatal Lake. Because Tungnath is a sacred place, it is asked that you do not camp there. Chopta offers eco-camps for you to stay in (₹1,000-2,000/night) or you can bring a tent and camp yourself.

8. What is the best season for the Chopta Tungnath Trek?

Ideally, you would want to do this trek in the months of April to June (spring) and September to November (autumn) to enjoy the mild weather and beautiful views. If you enjoy snow, winter (December to March) is also an option but you will need extra gear. Stay clear of the trek in the monsoon (July to August) season due to the danger of landslides.

9. Is the Chopta Tungnath Trek safe for solo female travellers?

It is safe, just make sure you take the right steps. You can travel in a group, hire a guide, or just let your family know of your plans and stay on the marked routes. The people in Chopta are friendly, and the camps are safe.

10. What Wildlife Can I See on the Chopta Tungnath Trek?

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Even spot some Himalayan monals, musk deer and langurs. You might see a Himalayan bear. If you do, keep your distance. For everyone’s safety, do not feed the wild animals.

Conclusion: Your Chopta Tungnath Trek is Ready 

Planning your Chopta Tungnath Trek is easy with this full travel plan. From rhododendron pathways to the sound of temple bells, it’s a soul reset to a different place. In 2025, answer the call of the Himalayas and seek clarity and peace. Lighten your pack and the mountains will heal you. Are you excited for the trek? Tell us in the comments!