A brilliant introduction to the Himalayas, featuring the stunning reflections of Deoriatal lake, the highest Shiva temple (Tungnath), and a sunrise summit.
The Chopta Chandrashila trek with Deoriatal is widely considered the most perfectly balanced trek for beginners in the Indian Himalayas. It offers a spectacular variety of scenery packed into just a few days of hiking.
You begin at the pristine Deoriatal Lake, famously reflecting the massive Chaukhamba massif in its still waters. The journey then takes you through the dense, crimson rhododendron forests of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary to Chopta, often called the "Mini Switzerland" of India. The grand finale is the pre-dawn climb to the ancient Tungnath temple (one of the Panch Kedar) and finally, the Chandrashila summit for an unobstructed 360-degree panorama of the Garhwal and Kumaon peaks.
Though excellent for beginners, the summit climb requires stamina. Trekkers must provide proof of running 5km in under 40 minutes prior to the departure date to ensure they can safely handle the steep ascent to 12,083 feet.
A meticulously designed itinerary built to offer the highest visual return for effort.
Meet the pickup team in the morning at Haridwar or Rishikesh. The drive traces the holy Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, passing through the confluence at Rudraprayag. We arrive at the picturesque village of Sari by late afternoon for our overnight stay.
The first day of trekking is a short, beautiful ascent through a well-paved trail ascending through oak and maple forests. We arrive at Deoriatal Lake by lunchtime. The lake is famously clear, offering flawless reflections of Mt. Chaukhamba. We camp overnight near the lake.
A long but gentle trail through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. The dense canopy is incredibly rich with birdlife and crimson rhododendron blooms (in spring). The forest trail eventually opens up into the sprawling green meadows of Baniyakund, just below Chopta.
An early alpine start at 3:30 AM. We climb a steep, well-laid path to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world (11,380 ft). After a short break, the final push to the Chandrashila summit begins. At the top, you are rewarded with a panoramic sunrise view of giants like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedar Peak before descending back to camp.