The Chopta/Chandrashila trek is a basic level mountain peak in the Garhwal Himalayas, which gives you a breath taking 360-degree view of the ranges including the Nanda Devi (7,880 meters), that is Uttaranchal’s highest peak.

The assent for Chandrashila is started from Chopta, along a steep mule track, till we reach the temple of Tungnath. Tungnath, is said to be made during the period of the Pandavas, the legendary warriors from the time of the historical epic “The Mahabharata” hundreds of years old. The temple is a great attraction for Hindu devoties, who come here from all over during the summer months.

Chandrashila is at an elevation of 4,000 meters and is the ideal trek for the first timer and is a fine introductory trek in the Himalayas. Usually it takes around 3-5 hours to get to the summit and packed lunch is served on the trek.

The prominent peaks, which are within the view at all time from Chopta are the The Chaukhamba, The Kedarnath, The Bandurpunch, The Gangotri peaks and many others.

A base camp is established at the base of Chandrashila in a beautiful meadow from where we go out hiking daily and return in the evenings. Apart from the climb to Chandrashila there are some other incredible hikes in the area, including a hike to the Musk deer sanctuary and to Deoriatal, a stunning lake in the amidst a Rhododendron forest all of which are included in the program.

Suggested Program:

Day 00: Board the overnight Haridwar bound, Mussoorie Express train from Old Delhi Railway Station.

Day 01: Arrive at Haridwar by 0600hrs where you will be met. You will be driven to Rishikesh, which is a 40-minute drive – a short stop to freshen up and have breakfast. We resume the drive to Chopta, which takes some six hours from Rishikesh. Arrive at camp by tea time, after which one can explore around camp.

Day 02: We start the climb to Chandrashila (4,000 meters) rather early in order to get a good view of the peaks. It takes roughly four hours to reach the summit. On the way down we will stop at Tungnath, a temple said to be over 3,000 years old. Packed lunch is served on the trek and one is back in camp after at teatime. Relax and enjoy the serenity - enjoy diner in the wilderness around a bonfire.

Day 03: Hike to the Musk Dear Sanctuary.

Day 04: Hike to Deoriatal Lake, a beautiful lake surrounded with Rhododendrons trees. This area, around the lake, is famous for bird watching. We continue from the lake to Okhimat and visit an old temple. The Himalayan Outback vehicles will pick you up from here and take you to Haridwar. Packed lunch will be provided on the drive back. Reach Haridwar and board the train to Delhi, where you will arrive the next morning.