The distance between Chopta to Tungnath trek is 5 km and the difficulty level is moderate. The Chopta - Tungnath - Chandrashila trek is one of the most adventurous hike travel enthusiasts opt for.
This steep trek to the peak leads you to the highest shiva temple in the world. With a high altitude of about 13000 ft above sea level, trekkers take about 5-6 hrs to complete the trek depending on their physical ability.
Trek plan:
Trekkers usually begin their trek to Tungnath, Uttarakhand from Haridwar or Rishikesh.Trekkers arrive at the base camp of the Chopta trek at Kund or Sari village to begin their hike to Tungnath. The travellers are expected to trek through narrow steep path way making way for the other hikers too.
The cold weather, the high altitude and minimum facilities makes the trek a challenging trail to take yet its enticing view is worth the struggle. The mesmerizing view of the shades of blue in the sky, the snow capped mountains, the thick fog and the dense coniferous forests with the sun shining on top will tempt you to stop and take a breath.
The temple top has the Shiva temple along with multiple other small temples that remain closed during the winter. However, you can still make it to the top of Tungnath, ring the temple bells and experience the feeling of the presence of the higher power.
Moving forward after a stop at Tungnath, trekkers head to Chandrashila. This is a kilometer ahead of Tungnath and can be conquered sooner. This is the peak point of Garhwal Himalayas. The 13,000 ft high view of Chandrashila is a milestone achieved for many trek enthusiasts. The complete trek takes about 5 days.
Entry and Essentials:
Trekkers are required to pay an amount of Rs 150 (for Indian citizens) and Rs 600 (foreigners) as the entry fee. Trekkers walk across the lush green path blanketed with snow to arrive at the top to witness a breathtaking view.
However, things to remember to cover the distance successfully on time are:
- Keep yourself physically fit and have a fitness routine to be able to trek
- Start your trek as early as possible in the morning to be able to comfortably make it to the top.
- Stay hydrated. The hike, the high altitude and the low oxygen level will make you thirsty, carry your own water supply during the trek.
- Carry your own trek essentials as it isn’t provided at the spot.
- The only way to reach on the top is by a steepy hike, so do not bring along elderly parents or young kids who wouldn’t be able to make the hike.
- The higher altitude and the required physical strength to make the hike is very important to be kept in mind. Do not make the trek in ill health. There is no medical facility available on the top or through the way.