Chopta–Tungnath Trek with Deoriatal Detour: A Magical 4‑Day Himalayan Route

The Chopta Tungnath Trek with Deoriatal Detour is one of the best short treks in Uttarakhand. It is ideal for beginners, families, and solo travelers looking for a peaceful and scenic Himalayan adventure. The trail takes you through rhododendron forests, meadows, and high-altitude temples, all while offering beautiful views of snow-covered peaks. This four-day trek is easy to moderate in difficulty and is open for most of the year.

Why Choose This Trek

This trek stands out for its natural beauty and spiritual charm. You visit Deoriatal Lake, known for its mirror-like reflections of the Chaukhamba peaks. You also reach Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, and Chandrashila, a summit that gives panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Unlike other crowded treks, this route stays quieter and gives you time to connect with nature.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to do the Chopta Tungnath Trek is:

• Spring (March to May): Rhododendrons bloom and weather is clear.
• Autumn (September to November): Skies are clear and perfect for mountain views.
• Winter (December to February): Snow covers the trail, adding a magical touch. Make sure you are prepared for cold weather and snow trekking.

Avoid the monsoon months (July and August) due to landslides and slippery trails.

Day Wise Itinerary

Day 1: Reach Sari Village and Trek to Deoriatal

• Altitude: 6,600 ft
• Trek Distance: 3 km
• Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Your journey starts with a drive to Sari Village, which is the base for the trek. From here, a short hike takes you to Deoriatal Lake, a peaceful spot surrounded by forests. On a clear day, you can see the reflection of Chaukhamba peak in the lake. Spend the night in a campsite near the lake.

Highlights:

• Calm lake surrounded by trees
• First glimpse of Himalayan peaks
• Easy forest trail

Day 2: Drive to Chopta and Explore

• Altitude: 8,700 ft
• Drive: 30 km (2 hours)

After breakfast, return to Sari and take a short drive to Chopta, a small village often called the Mini Switzerland of India. Spend the day exploring the meadows, resting, and adjusting to the altitude. You can take short walks and enjoy the quiet beauty of the area.

Highlights:

• Alpine meadows
• Forest walks
• Sunset views over the hills

Day 3: Trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila

• Altitude: Tungnath (12,073 ft), Chandrashila (13,123 ft)
• Trek Distance: 8.5 km (round trip)
• Time: 6 to 7 hours

Start early from Chopta for the most important day of the trek. The path to Tungnath Temple is well paved but steep. Along the way, you will walk through high-altitude meadows and alpine trees. After offering prayers at the temple, climb further to Chandrashila Peak for a 360-degree view of the Himalayas including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, and Chaukhamba.

Return to Chopta by evening for dinner and rest.

Highlights:

• Highest Shiva temple
• Stunning Himalayan views
• Great photo spots

Day 4: Return to Rishikesh or Haridwar

End your trip by driving back to Rishikesh or Haridwar. You can also plan a short visit to nearby attractions if time allows.

What to Pack

• Warm jackets, gloves, and woolen caps (especially in winter)
• Trekking shoes with good grip
• Water bottles and energy snacks
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Rain cover and backpack
• Torch and power bank

Travel Tips

• Start early each day for better views and easier walking
• Keep the trail clean and avoid plastic use
• Respect local customs and temple rules
• Book your stay in advance, especially in peak seasons
• Travel in a group or with a guide for safety

Accommodation

You will find basic guesthouses, homestays, and campsites in Sari, Chopta, and Deoriatal. While the facilities are simple, most places offer home-cooked food and warm hospitality. In winter, confirm in advance if accommodations are open.

Food on the Trek

Most food options are vegetarian and include simple meals like rice, dal, chapati, and vegetables. In some places, you can also find noodles, soups, and local dishes. Carry dry fruits and snacks for energy during the trek.

Fitness and Difficulty Level

The Chopta Tungnath Trek is rated easy to moderate. If you walk regularly or have average fitness, you can do this trek without much difficulty. Prepare by walking 3 to 5 kilometers daily for at least two weeks before the trip.

Responsible Trekking

This area is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. It is home to animals like musk deer, Himalayan monal, and leopards. Please avoid loud music, do not litter, and stay on the marked trails. Respect the environment and help keep the Himalayas clean and beautiful.

Conclusion

The Chopta Tungnath Trek with Deoriatal Detour is a short but rewarding adventure. In just four days, you experience forests, temples, lakes, meadows, and majestic mountains. It is perfect for a weekend getaway or a beginner trek with friends and family. Whether you want peace, nature, or a bit of spiritual energy, this trek has it all.