Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila Trek

The trek begins from Chopta, a small hill station surrounded by forests inside the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. A well-laid stone trail climbs gradually through rhododendron forests and open meadows before reaching Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world and one of the Panch Kedar shrines.

Beyond the temple, the trail becomes steeper as it climbs to Chandrashila Peak. Although the distance is short, the higher altitude and final ascent require a steady pace. The summit rewards trekkers with one of the widest Himalayan panoramas in Uttarakhand.

On clear days, peaks such as Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Kedar Dome, Bandarpoonch, and Neelkanth are visible from the top. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, while winter covers the trail in snow, creating two completely different trekking experiences. Because of its short duration and easy access, the trek remains one of the most popular weekend Himalayan adventures.