Chopta Chandra Shila or the ‘Moon rock’ is known for the bird-eye view of numerous sites. Among many highly elevated sites, Chopta Chandra Shila is the less-explored point of Uttarakhand.

At an elevation of 4,000 meters and 13,000 meters above sea level, this trek is very much favorable for beginners.

‘Mini Switzerland of India’ is a name given by the tourists because of the impressive scenic beauty and natural landscapes.

The picturesque view of this hamlet and the beauty of the natural vegetation can also be seen from the famous Tungnath.

This peak is the window view to many popular Uttrakhand Himalayan ranges like Nanda Devi, Bandarpoonch, Chaukhamba, Trisul, and Kedar peak.

Best time to visit: April to June/ October to December

Trek Location: Rishikesh

Night temperature: -5 C to 3 C

Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate

Base camp: Sari village

Things to carry

  • Trekking shoes
  • Trekking pole
  • ID proof
  • First-aid box
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sunscreen, moisturizer
  • Sunglasses
  • Woolen cloths (if trekking in winter)
  • Camera
  • Power bank or charges batteries

Trekking in Chopta Chandrashila trek

One of the easiest and popular treks of Uttarakhand, the trekking distance of 5km starts from Chopta and is a steep trek.

Just spend 3 to 4 nights camping under the clear sky of Chopta Chandrashila. The blooming forest is the first natural gem, along with that comes the chirping birds which will make this place a favorite spot for photography.

The trail goes through a highly vegetated forest along with various other flora and fauna.

Rhododendron is among the rare species of flora that are found here. Oaks and pine are also found in large numbers here.

The view of the Chopta trek is unforgettable and panoramic.

When at the top of the peak, one can view the whole valley and the small huts and small spots of civilization.

Chaukhamba peak is a breathtaking view which is also visible from Chandrashila peak.

This trek can be summoned up like the easiest, popular, and beautiful trek of Uttarakhand.

When going on this trek, it is essential to keep the camera handy. Innumerable species of flora and fauna and the large span of mountain ranges all over the place cannot be missed.

How to reach

Nearest airport: Dehradun-Jolly Kant, 97km from Chopta

Nearest railway station: Haridwar, Rishikesh-100km from Chopta

Via road: The national highway to Chopta is NH58.

Many local transport services are also available at different spots.

Places to visit

Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek

The starting point of the Chopta Chandrashila Trek, Tungnath village is at a height of 2,680m. Surrounded by beautiful deodar, rhododendron, and pine trees this village is centered between a forest.

This trek is initiated from the city of Haridwar towards Devarivatal lake, which is also located at an elevation of 2440m.

The Tungnath is a famous Shiva temple which awards the tourist with a view of the whole valley.

Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary

House of the famous Musk deer, this sanctuary is the perfect spot to spend a natural day. Lush green surrounding and the varieties of flora and fauna here makes the day fly.

Just 7km away from Chopta, this sanctuary is spread over an area of 5 square kilometers. For animal lovers or wildlife photographers, this sanctuary can be the favorite place in Chopta.

This whole area comes under the famous Kedarnath Wildlife sanctuary. Nature-friendly place in Uttrakhand.

Ukhimath Chopta

Known as the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath, who is shifted to Kedarnath temporarily in winters.

This place is an old shrine of Shiva-Parvati. It is a Hindu pilgrimage place in Uttrakhand.

In the district of Rudraprayag, this place is situated at an elevation of 1,311 meters. There are numerous temples dedicated to different gods and goddesses.

Deori Tal

Just 3km away from Sari village in Uttarakhand, this lake is a perfect spot for camping with an amazing view of peaks.

Linked with many mythological stories, this place feels like heaven.

Along with camping, many other adventurous activities can also be done here.

From Sari village and Mastura village, jeeps are found to reach this amazing lake.  Because of its popularity, many small stalls are settled here but camping is restricted.