My First Trek to Chopta Chandrashila with Himalaya Shelter(HS)

It was the beginning of something I had only dreamed of - my first trek in the Himalayas. I had heard about the Chopta chandrashila trek and its legendary views, but I never imagined it would leave such a lasting mark on me. Choosing Himalaya Shelter as my trekking partner turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made.

Getting Started – The Anticipation

My journey began in Haridwar, where I met my trekking group and the team from Himalaya Shelter. The warmth of their welcome instantly calmed my nerves. We were briefed about the trek, gear, weather, and safety protocols. The drive to Sari Village, the starting point of the trek, was scenic and dotted with river views, dense forests, and charming villages.

Day 1 – Deoria Tal: A Dreamlike Beginning

We started with a short but beautiful trek to Deoria Tal, a calm lake set against the mighty Chaukhamba peaks. I was surprised at how manageable the trail was, even for a first-timer like me. The campsite was cozy, and the view of the lake mirroring the mountains was surreal. That night, under a starlit sky, I truly felt I was far from the chaos of the city.

Day 2 – From Deoria Tal to Chopta

The second day was slightly more challenging but immensely rewarding. We trekked through forests of rhododendron and oak trees, often catching glimpses of snow patches and mountain birds. Himalaya Shelter’s guides were incredibly supportive, sharing local stories and checking on everyone’s comfort. We reached Chopta, also known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” just before sunset. The sight of the meadows blanketed in snow and the golden light hitting the peaks was pure magic.

Day 3 – Chandrashila via Tungnath: The Summit Day

This was the day I had been waiting for. We began the trek to Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple, before dawn. The temple stood silently in the snow, exuding an aura of ancient calm. From there, we pushed for Chandrashila summit (approx. 13,000 ft). The final climb was steep and covered in snow, but our guides motivated us every step of the way.

Reaching the top, I was overwhelmed. Before me stood a 360-degree panoramic view of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, and Chaukhamba peaks. Tears welled up in my eyes — a mix of joy, gratitude, and disbelief. This moment, this view, was everything I had hoped for and more.

Read more: Chandrashila Peak - A Journey to the Moon and Back

The Descent and Goodbye

The descent was easier, with everyone still buzzing from the summit high. We shared laughs, stories, and even a few slips in the snow. Himalaya Shelter made sure we were well-fed, warm, and safe throughout. Their attention to detail — from the quality of tents to the food and safety equipment — truly set them apart.

Reflections – More Than Just a Trek

This trek wasn’t just about reaching a summit. It was about discovering a part of myself I didn’t know existed. It was about learning to trust strangers who became friends, stepping outside my comfort zone, and feeling humbled by the grandeur of nature.

I’m incredibly thankful to Himalaya Shelter, not just for organizing a flawless trek, but for introducing me to the magic of the mountains in the most beautiful way.

Final Thoughts of Chopta chandrashila trek

If you're planning your first Himalayan trek, I can wholeheartedly recommend Chopta chandrashila with Himalaya Shelter. It’s beginner-friendly, deeply spiritual, and visually breathtaking. I went there as a curious traveler and came back as a mountain lover.