Tungnath–Chandrashila trek
Overview: The Tungnath–Chandrashila trek is a classic short alpine trek in Chopta (Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand). It combines a visit to Tungnath — the highest Shiva temple in the world — with the panoramic summit Chandrashila, offering spectacular sunrise and 360° views of the Greater Himalaya (Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba and more). The trail passes through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows (bugyals) and rocky ridgelines. It is suitable for fit beginners and regular trekkers.
Location
Chopta (Tungnath & Chandrashila), Chopta, Rudraprayag, India
Duration
Typically 1–2 days. Trek distance Chopta → Tungnath ~3.5 km, Tungnath → Chandrashila ~1.5 km (one way). Roundtrip trekking time: 4–6 hours (moderate pace). Many do it as a single-day out-and-back from Chopta or as an overnight stay in Chopta for sunrise at Chandrashila.
Best Time to Visit
Best: Mid-March to June and September to November (clear skies, pleasant weather). Winter (Dec–Feb): Excellent for snow-covered landscapes and advanced winter trekking but expect extreme cold and possible road closures. Avoid: Monsoon (July–August) — slippery trails and landslide risk.
Pricing
Approximate costs (per person):
- Trek permit & entry: No formal entry permit; temple donations optional (INR 50–200).
- Transport: Chandigarh/Dehradun/Rishikesh to Chopta (shared cab/tempo) INR 800–2500 depending on origin and season.
- Guide: INR 800–1,500 per day (optional but recommended in winter/for groups).
- Porter/Pony: INR 500–1,200 depending on distance and negotiation (not needed for fit trekkers).
- Accommodation: Basic guesthouses/camps in Chopta INR 600–2,500 per night (budget to premium seasonal rates).
- Total typical budget: INR 1,500–5,000 for a 1–2 day trip (excluding long-distance travel).
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Tungnath Temple: Highest Shiva temple (alt. ~3,680 m) with religious and cultural significance.
Chandrashila Summit: Short steep climb above Tungnath to a rocky summit with stunning sunrise and panoramic Himalayan views (alt. ~4,000 m).
Panoramas: Views of Nanda Devi, Bandarpunch, Chaukhamba, Trishul and other peaks.
Flora & Fauna: Rhododendron forests, alpine meadows (bugyals) and rich Himalayan birdlife.
Accessibility: Short, well-defined trail suitable for beginners with basic fitness; accessible from Chopta (motorable up to Chopta).
Itinerary
Arrive at Chopta (by shared jeep/cab from Ukhimath/Dehradun/Rishikesh). Check into guesthouse or campsite.
Acclimatize, check weather, final gear and permissions; early night if planning sunrise trek the next day.
Trek from Chopta to Tungnath (~3.5 km, 1.5–2 hours) and onward to Chandrashila (~1.5 km, 30–60 minutes).
Start pre-dawn for sunrise at Chandrashila. The trail is steep in sections with stone steps; carry warm clothing and headlamp. Visit Tungnath temple on descent.
Descend to Chopta, return to accommodation, pack and depart to next destination (Ukhimath, Chopta parking or onward travel).
Allow time for breaks; enjoy tea stalls on route. If staying another night, explore Chopta meadows and short walks.
Safety Requirements
Carry layered warm clothing, windproof and waterproof outer layers in colder months.
Good trekking shoes with grip; trekking poles recommended for descent and snow.
Altitude awareness: Although not very high, monitor for mild AMS symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness).
Avoid trekking alone; hire a local guide in winter or poor visibility.
Check weather and road conditions before travel (monsoon and heavy snow can close roads).
Carry basic first-aid, water purification tablets or adequate water, and high-energy snacks.
Tips
Start early for sunrise at Chandrashila — it's the highlight for many trekkers.
Acclimatize if you are coming from near-sea-level; take it slow if you feel breathless.
Pack warm clothing even in summer mornings; temperatures drop sharply pre-dawn and at the summit.
Respect local customs at Tungnath temple: remove footwear and follow temple rules.
Carry cash — limited ATMs and card facilities in Chopta/Ukhimath.
Photography tip: Use a wide-angle lens for the Himalayan panorama and a telephoto for distant peak details.
If visiting in winter (snow), use microspikes/crampons and consider a guide experienced in snow routes.
