Chopta Chandrashila Tungnath Trek with Deorital

Trek To World’s Highest Shiva Temple

Uttarakhand
4N/5D

Trek Grade

Easy - Moderate

Highest Altitude

12100 Ft

Base Camp

Sari

Best Time

Round the year except Monsoon

Chopta Chandrashila Tungnath Trek with Deorital

The Chopta Chandrashila trek is a unique adventure, offering a five-day itinerary that is a blend of vibrant spring colours, thrilling challenges, and efficient trekking. This popular hike is a visual treat, with the summer season painting the landscape in stunning pink and red Rhododendrons. In winter, the misty snow transforms the scenery into a wonderland, perfect for snow trekking. 

The trek takes you on a beautiful loop to Chandrashila Peak, passing by the breathtaking Deoriatal Lake, offering an incredible collection of snow peaks. Deoriatal is the first significant point in the journey, located at a height of 7,800 feet and surrounded by forests. In front of the lake, the Chaukhamba massif shimmers, and its reflection is visible in the crystal clear water, creating a stunning effect. These unique experiences and sights are sure to inspire and captivate any nature lover. 

The place is full of legends, and according to one story, the five brothers from the epic poem Mahabharata were once thirsty and came to Deoriatal for water, where they had to face an examination of their wisdom. They made unforgettable memories the first night they spent here under the star-filled sky. The next step in the journey is the meadows, which transform into snowfields on the way to Chopta. Along the trail, you can see spectacular mountains such as Bandarpooch, Kedar, and Chaukhamba, among others. 

These stunning features of the Garhwal Himalayas are even more impressive from the top of Chandrashila and remain unforgettable until the end of the summit section at the Tunganath temple. The Deoriatal Chandrashila trek is situated within The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakhand and is a delight for those who love wildlife. It is also an excellent summit hike (12,083 feet) for those beginning to trek in the Himalayas. Summit climbs and hiking through mountains for hours in the early hours of the morning are enjoyable. This trek is a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty and rich wildlife of the Himalayas, inviting a deep sense of connection and appreciation for nature. 

The summit is reached just as the sun’s rays illuminate the sky. Everything below you is clouds, hills, and tiny bits of civilization. You typically observe mountains far away when you go on a Himalayan hike. However, Deoriatal Chandrashila stands out because you can see all the major summits in Western and Eastern Uttarakhand from the summit, making it a unique and unforgettable experience. Chopta Chandrashila Deorital is a trek for everyone to enjoy, ideal for nature lovers, bird-watchers, and photographers alike.

Chopta Chandrashilla Trek Videos

Videos by experts watch these videos to prepare well for a Successful Trek

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Want To Trek Like Pro?

Check out the following videos if you want to trek like a pro trekker and improve your skills. These videos contain helpful tips, tricks, and techniques to help you trek like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these videos can provide valuable insights to enhance your trekking experience. So, watch the videos below by Trekup India experts to take your trekking skills to the next level.

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Chopta Chandrashilla Trek

Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness is a medical condition that can occur when individuals travel to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet. It is caused by the decrease in air pressure and oxygen levels in the air as altitude increases. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness, it is important to gradually adjust to high altitudes and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. To learn more about this condition, check out the videos by Trekup India.

Acute Mountain Sickness, Symptoms P
Acute Mountain Sickness
Precaution For Acute Mountain Sickness

Important
Guidelines

Government employees joining our trekking expeditions can avail of Special Casual Leave (SCL) under the following conditions:

  1. Eligibility Criteria:
    • SCL is available exclusively to Indian government employees.
    • Applicable only for treks conducted within India.
  2. Leave Details:
    • As per Pay Commission rules, government employees are entitled to up to 30 days of SCL in a calendar year for trekking or mountaineering expeditions.
    • Treks must be organized by a registered organization, such as Trekup India, recognized by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF).
  3. Application Process:
    • You need to apply for leave at least 20 days before the trek departure date.
    • How to Apply: The following details are required to apply for IMF certification through the IMF.
      • Email info@trekupindia.com with the following details:
        • Your booked trek date.
        • The trek name.
        • Aadhar Card
        • Designation
        • Office Address
        • Additional Fee of Rs. 250/ per person will be applicable.
        • Note: It might take 20-25 days to receive a certificate from the IMF, subject to their approval.
  4. Documentation Support:
    • Trekup India will provide the necessary documents to facilitate your SCL application.
  • A parent or guardian must accompany trekkers below 15 years of age.
  • Trekkers Aged 15 to 18 or above Years: Can trek solo but require a Disclaimer Form signed by a parent or guardian. And Medical Form that Provides health details and confirms fitness for trekking by MBBS Doctor
  • Trekkers Aged above 18 Years: Require a Disclaimer Form self-signed. And Medical Form that Provides health details and confirms fitness for trekking, Signed with an MBBS Doctor stamp.

If you’re planning a trek, you must ensure that your health parameters meet the fitness requirements for physical exertion at high altitudes or rugged terrains. Below are guidelines for each of the parameters mentioned:

1. Pulse Rate (Heart Rate at Rest):

  • Normal: 60 to 100 (bpm) beats per minute.
  • Required Fitness: Physically fit person may have a resting heart rate closer to 50 bpm, which shows that he have good cardiovascular efficiency.

2. Blood Pressure (BP):

  • Required BP: 120/80 mmHg. A Bolood Pressure within this Range ensures adequate oxygen delivery to muscles and organs during physical exertion, especially at high altitudes.
  • Your specified blood pressure (BP) Range—Systolic: 100–140 mmHg and Diastolic: 70–90 mmHg—is appropriate and generally considered safe for trekking activities.
  • Acceptable Range: <140/90 mmHg for trekking. Elevated BP could increase risks during strenuous activity or at high altitudes.

 

Recommendations:

  • Pre-Trek Checkup: Monitor your BP multiple times & ensure that it should be normal.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration affect BP, so maintain proper fluid intake during your trek.
  • Avoid Alcohol & Excess Salt: These can destabilize BP, especially at altitude.
  • BP Monitor: If you have a history of BP issues, regularly check your BP during the trek. Our Trek Leaders are equipped with a BP machine.
 

3. Respiratory Rate at Rest:

  • Required Rate: 12–20 breaths per minute.
 

4. Diabetes Mellitus:

  • Acceptable: Well-controlled blood sugar levels (HbA1c <7% or fasting blood glucose <126 mg/dL).
  • Fitness Requirement: Carry quick glucose sources and monitor regularly during the trek.
 

5. Bronchial Asthma:

  • Acceptable: Only when your doctors allow it & you have to submit an MBBS doctor NOC that you can undergo this trek.
  • Fitness Requirement: Bring prescribed inhalers/medications and consult your doctor about high-altitude risks.
 

6. Heart Problems:

  • Acceptable: Individuals without recent cardiac events (e.g., heart attack within the past 2 years).
  • Fitness Requirement: Clearance from an MBBS Doctor (cardiologist) is required.
 

7. Hypertension:

  • Acceptable: Controlled hypertension (BP <140/90 mmHg) with no recent complications like hypertensive crisis.
 

8. Pacemaker Implant:

  • Generally not recommended for high-altitude treks.
 

9. Body Mass Index (BMI):

  • Required BMI: 18 – 26 kg/m² for a good trekking fitness.
  • Overweight or underweight individuals may face additional strain on joints or fatigue.
 

Additional Recommendations:

  • High Altitude Acclimatization: For treks above 10,000 feet, ensure have some acclimatization Trekup India have designed Itinary of this trek accordingly to it but its not granted that this itinary works fine with acclimatization. For more information, click here.
  • Fitness Level: Regular aerobic and strength training exercises before the trek are essential. For more information, click here.
  • Medical Clearance: Consult a healthcare professional (MBBS Doctor) to assess your suitability before coming on this trek.

Would you like assistance preparing for your trek or calculating specific health metrics? Call Your Trek Co-Ordinator

Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Chopta Chandrashilla Trek

Day 1: Drive Rishikesh-Sari

  • The pick-up point for your upcoming journey is Rishikesh Bus Station. 
  • Please note that the pick-up time is scheduled for 6:00 am. 
  • The trekking distance is approximately 190 km and the estimated driving time is around 7 hours. 
  • The altitude at the destination is 6,600 feet. 
  • Network availability is available until Sari.

You will be picked up early from Rishikesh at 6:30 AM today. If you wish to arrive a few days before the trek start date, you can arrange an overnight bus ride from Delhi to reach Haridwar early in the morning. Haridwar-Rishikesh, located along the Ganges, is a popular spot on the pilgrimage trail of Uttarakhand. While in Rishikesh, you can participate in cultural activities and enjoy adventure sports in the Ganges river.

 

The drive from Rishikesh to Sari village takes 7-8 hours, during which you can admire the breathtaking views of the lower Garhwal Himalayas. The most beautiful and memorable point of interest along the route is Devaprayag. This town marks the stunning convergence of the Alakananda and Bhagirathi rivers. The river will be a constant companion; you will reach Sari around 6:00 to 6:30 PM. Sari is a picturesque village with tiny houses dotted on the mountainside and surrounded by lush agricultural fields. If you need any essential items for the trip, you can visit the market in Sari to purchase them.

Day 2: Trek to Deoriatal

  • The trek distance for this particular trail is 3 kilometers.
  • It usually takes around 1 hour to complete the trek depending on your pace and fitness level.
  • The altitude of the trek is around 7,800 ft. above sea level, so it is recommended to take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness.
  • There is no water source available along the trail, so it’s advisable to carry enough water to stay hydrated during the trek.

On the first day of the trek, you will hike up and down a rocky trail to reach the top, where you can see the Chandrashila summit and the Tunganath temple in the distance. From there, you’ll climb uphill along a steep ridge to reach a Forest Department resting stop. If you’re with the Trek Leader, you can take a 20-minute break here and enjoy the stunning view of the mountain’s fall. After resting, the trail will lead you through a rhododendron forest, where you’ll witness the vibrant shadow blooms of rhododendrons during the spring treks. You’ll continue climbing steadily until you reach 7,434 feet, and the villages disappear. After about 20 minutes, you’ll arrive at the lakes of Deoriatal, where you’ll get a magnificent view of the Chaukhamba mountains in the background. You’ll have time to explore the forest and its hidden nooks and crevices, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Lunch will be served upon reaching the lakeside camp located in Deorital.

Day 03: By Trek From Deoriatal To Baniyakund Through Rohini Bugyal

  • Trek distance: 16 kilometers
  • Estimated time to complete: 7-8 hours
  • Altitude at Chopta: 8,700 feet above sea level
  • Ground source of water available just before entering Rohini Bugyal
  • Waterfalls available on the second part of the route for refilling water bottles

Embark on today’s thrilling trek that will bring you closer to the majestic Chaukhamba mountain range and the awe-inspiring Mount Kedar summit. The forest trail, adorned with vibrant maples and rhododendrons, will invigorate your senses with its cool and refreshing ambience. As you venture deeper into the dense forests, you’ll encounter two distinct varieties of rhododendrons, pink and red, their abundance increasing with each step beyond the initial forest stretch.

The path is dotted with small shrines that are distinguished by yellow and red flags pinned to them. After crossing a clearing in the forest, which is full of scarlet blooms, you’ll be escorted uphill to Rohgini Bugyal and Chopta. The trail ascends to a level terrain and has some sway during the uphill climb. On the opposite side of the edge, you’ll be able to see a stunning view of Chandrashila. After the level land, you must enter the forest that is now dominated by old oaks, maples, and Rhododendrons. This is part of the Kedarnath Sanctuary, and with some luck, you may spot red foxes, Himalayan black bears, and other smaller wild creatures. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of bird species, including the Himalayan Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand.

After another 25 minutes of walking along the Kedarnath Sanctuary trail, you’ll arrive at Bhagdwal temple, which is a junction point for three trekking routes. One route connects with Sari village, the other to Ukhimath, and the third one descends into the meadows of Rohini Bugyal. Along this path, Chandrashila and the adjacent Kala Parvat Peak gain prominence. The path through here bends towards Bisuri Tal Lake and the small tarn known as Nandikund located at the foot of Kala Parvat. In the further distance, as you travel along the river, a silvery rivulet flowing from Chandrashila comes into your path. This is where you can replenish your water reservoirs and continue to a wooden bridge over the river. Don’t forget to respect the local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering the temple

Just a little further, the meadows will begin, and there will be an array of shelters. Shepherds from villages in the area are here to feed their animals. Nearby is a road-head at the end of a jungle trail. In the area around Chopta village, we have our campsite at a clearing located in the forest. From here, you can choose to continue your trek to Sari village, which is a relatively easy route, or to Ukhimath, which is a more challenging route. Alternatively, you can descend into the meadows of Rohini Bugyal, which is a moderate route suitable for most trekkers.

Day 4: Baniyakund up to Tungnath, Chandrashilla Top and back to Baniyakund

  • Buniyakund is the starting point of your journey that will take you to the beautiful Chopta region.
  • The distance between Buniyakund and Chopta is just 3km, which you can cover by car.
  • Once you reach Chopta, you will start your trek to Tungnath, Chandrashilla Summit and back.
  • The entire trek is about 8km long, and it should take you around 7-8 hours to complete the round trip.
  • As you ascend towards the summit, you will experience a gradual increase in altitude.
  • The trek reaches an altitude of 13,100 ft at its highest point, which is the Chandrashilla Summit.
  • While the trek is challenging, the stunning views make it all worth it.
  • However, it’s important to note that there are no water sources along the trek, so it’s essential to carry enough water and stay hydrated throughout the journey.

We will embark on our trek early morning, while it’s still dark outside. Our route is well-defined and concrete-bound, leading from Chopta to the Tunganath shrine. Along the way, we’ll encounter a challenging climb with sharp turns, and we’ll pass by several noteworthy sites, including one with a flagpole, just after the 10th bend in the road. From here, you’ll be able to see the stunning Chandrashila peak to the right and another peak that connects to it, called Ravanshila.

During winter, there will be snow on the path, and it’s essential to be cautious of the thick snowfall on the summit from December to April. Snow climbing gear, such as gaiters and crampons, is recommended, and the trek leader might use an ice knife to guide the way through the snow sludge layer. The entrance to Tunganath is at the 11th bend, and the path to the Chandrashila peak starts within the temple compound.

Once you reach the summit, after a steep and challenging uphill climb, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Garhwal and Kumaon mountains. You’ll be able to see notable peaks such as Nanda Devi Trishul, Nandaghunti, Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, and Kedar, as well as glimpses of the Thalaysagar and Gangotri ranges from the edges.

The descent journey is more straightforward and less time-consuming, taking approximately 3 hours to reach the Baniyakund campsite.

Day 5: Baniyakund to Rishikesh

  • Drop off Point: Rishikesh bus station
  • Distance: 210 km
  • Estimated Time: 7 hours
  • Expected Arrival Time: Around 6:30 pm
  • Please note that the arrival time may vary due to traffic and unforeseen delays during the journey.

On the fifth day of your trip, we will arrange your return journey from Chopta Road to Rishikesh. This seven-hour journey will take you through some of the most breathtaking and scenic hilly terrain, leaving you with sweet memories that will last a lifetime. You will arrive in Rishikesh at night, where you can explore the city or relax and unwind after your long journey. We highly recommend a night trip to Delhi from Rishikesh, as it is a great way to experience the city’s beauty at night and avoid the traffic during the day. Whether you choose to stay in Rishikesh or head straight to Delhi, we guarantee that this journey will be an unforgettable one that you will cherish forever.

Chopta Chandrashilla Trek Route Map

We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Chopta Chandrashilla Trek, which outlines the entire journey including all stops and trails. This map provides detailed information on the terrain, distance between points of interest, and estimated travel time to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. We’ve carefully curated the map to ensure that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Please take a moment to review it thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Chopta Chandrashilla Trek Altitude Chart

The Trek Altitude Chart is a useful tool for Trekkers to monitor their altitude changes during their rides, allowing them to plan their routes more efficiently and track their progress over time. This Chopta Chandrashilla Trek chart is beneficial for both casual and experienced Trekkers, helping them make the most out of their Trek experience.

Trek Cost Inclusions

  1. Stay: 1 Nights will be in a hotel or guest house on a multi-sharing basis, and 3 Nights of tented accommodation at individual campsites of Trekup India.
  2. Meals: Trekup India will provide freshly cooked meals during the trek starting with Dinner on Day 1 to  tea, coffee on day 5 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian) 
  3. Transport Optional: Rishikesh to Rishikesh and return. ( 1600 extra )
  4. Trek Insurance Mandatory: (Trekup India recommends each trekker to get insurance) you can read more about What Is Trek Insurance, Why It Is Mandatory On Treks And What It Covers .
  5. Trek Equipment:  Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
  6. Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.    
  7. Health & Safety:  First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
  8. Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee 
  9. Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
  10. Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.

Trek Cost Exclusions

  1. GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
  2. Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
  3. Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point 
  4. Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication. 
  5. Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
  6. Any still / video camera fee 
  7. Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot. 
  8. Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage (Offload Charges for bag 400 per day, per bag if paid online (at base camp 1,800). Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
  9. Any emergency evacuation charges
  10. Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.

What should you pack for the Chopta Chandrashilla Trek

Chopta Chandrashilla Trek is a high-altitude trek. The trekking gear you have to have for this particular trek differs from normal treks. Thus, read this whole segment. There is an important question that the trekker who is doing trek asks, like what all things to carry while trekking. Below, we have provided the details on everything you should take; an easy way to remember is by Head to foot or foot to head. We have prepared from Head to foot.

Things to Carry, pack for trek

Head Gears

When trekking it's important to carry headgear to protect your head and face.

Heading out for a trek? Don’t forget to carry headgear to protect your beautiful face and head from the sun, wind, and dust! It’s an essential accessory that keeps you safe and comfortable throughout your adventurous journey. So, make sure you pack it before you step out into nature!

  1. Head Lamps are essential for the night, and most importantly, headtorchs keep your hands free while trekking.
  2. Hats or Cap– Cap will protect you from winds and sometimes freezing temperatures for the night. Hats protect you from the sun during the day and also ensure they have a strap so the hat doesn’t blow from the wind.
  3. Sunglasses– you will need specific sunglasses for trekking. The glasses should protect from UV rays, fit your face perfectly so it doesn’t fall while you climb, jump, or cross an obstacle, and be according to the weather conditions of the place; the glass should be made to fit different weather conditions.
  4. Buff / Balaclava– You must carry this to protect your mouth or neck from extreme temperatures and keep it warm.

Clothes

When trekking in high altitudes, prepare for cold weather by wearing layers. Layering traps heat, keeps you warm, and allows you to easily adjust your clothing as temperatures fluctuate.

Layering is important for different seasons when trekking. When planning a high-altitude trek, it is important to prepare for the cold weather. Wearing layers is the best approach as it provides both protection and flexibility when the weather changes frequently in the mountains. Layering helps to trap heat and keep your body warm, while at the same time allowing you to easily adjust your clothing as the temperature fluctuates. By wearing layers, you can enjoy your trek comfortably and stay safe in the unpredictable mountain weather

  1. For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
  2. For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
  3. For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
  4. T-shirt/sleeve shirt– Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants, wearing one and carrying the others. Long sleeve shirts help to protect from sun UV rays. We recommend synthetic T-shirts as they get dry quickly when they get wet.
  5. Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
  6. Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
  7. Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
  8. Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
  9. Trek Pants– Bring 2 to 3 comfortable trekking pants. Trekking pants play a significant role, as they are designed for comfort and mobility, making trekking easier. It should be Synthetic so that it gets dry quickly when wet.
  10. Rain Wear– you can carry a raincoat or Poncho. During long rains and snowfalls, the waterproof jackets start leaking. Still, the Poncho and raincoats keep you dry, so choose accordingly.

Tip: If you choose a raincoat on your trek, carry a small waterproof cover so things inside your backpack can’t get wet. If you carry a Poncho, you don’t need to worry. It protects both you and your backpack.