Chopta Trek Distance
The Chopta trek, located in the Chamoli district of Garhwal,Uttarakhand, is a scenic and relatively easy-to-moderate trek. In total, the trek covers a distance of about approx 30 kms, making it a perfect choice for beginners and seasoned trekkers as well, winter providing challenge due to snow so one needs to be prepared with gears, and summer time is blooming and flush with hues of rhododendron trees.
The drive covers river confluences , specially devprayag from where Ganges begins. The trek begins from the scenic sari village to Deoriatal lake, a hike of 2.5 kms, where one camps for the night. Deoriatal lake is a high altitude lake at 2400 mts, providing stunning reflection of the Chaukhamba peak on the surface of the lake, in winters the entire lake and surrounding region is a winter wonderland with Deoriatal lake frozen.
Next day walk to the “mini Switzerland of india” the town of Chopta at an elevation of 2980 mts from Deorital , the distance is approx 16 kms through the forest walk.
Next morning one climbs to the revered Tungnath Temple (3980 mts) and the stunning Chandrashila Peak(4000 mts). The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is approximately 3.5 kilometers, with a well-paved path and moderate inclines. This portion of the trek is manageable for beginners and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
From Tungnath, the trek continues to Chandrashila Peak, which is an additional 1.5 kilometers. Though shorter, this segment is steeper and more challenging. Once at the summit, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan ranges, including peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar and Chaukhamba. An early morning start can give the beautiful view of sunrise through the Himalayan peaks, sunrays spreading on the peaks.
Climb back to Chopta is the same way where one can relax and take a spiritual moment at the Tungnath temple – the highest Shiva temple in the world.
This trek is accessible round the year providing different experience in each season.