INTRODUCTION
Uttarakhand, the northern state of India, is popularly known as the “Land of Gods”, and is home to some of the most magnificent trekking destinations in the country. Amongst these, the Chopta Trek is one of the most spectacular and less-explored trekking destinations. Chopta is a small hamlet located in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, in the state of Uttarakhand, and is renowned for its stunning views of the Himalayas, rolling meadows, dense forests, and diverse wildlife.
WHY CHOPTA TREK IS A GEM!
The Chopta Trek is a relatively easy trek, making it a perfect choice for beginners and families. The trek is approximately 5-6 km long and takes about 4-5 hours to complete. The trail passes through some of the most stunning landscapes, and the views from the summit are truly breathtaking. The trek starts from the base village of Chopta and follows a well-defined trail, which leads to the summit of Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world. The temple is located at an elevation of 3,680 metres above sea level, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the famous Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Neelkanth, and Trishul ranges.
As one sets out on the trek, the trail winds through dense forests of rhododendron, deodar, and oak trees, which are teeming with a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, leopards, and the elusive Himalayan black bear. The trek is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, as it is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the Himalayan Monal, the national bird of Nepal.
The trail to Tungnath is well-defined and easy to follow, and the ascent is gradual, making it a comfortable and enjoyable trek for people of all ages. The trail is dotted with several tea stalls and shops, where trekkers can take a break, enjoy a hot cup of tea, and savor the stunning views of the surrounding peaks. As one approaches the summit, the trail becomes steeper and more strenuous, but the views from the top make it all worth it.
At the summit of Tungnath,
the temple complex is a sight to behold, with its white-washed walls and intricate carvings, and the views of the surrounding peaks are simply breathtaking. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and the atmosphere is one of peace and serenity, with the sound of prayer bells ringing in the background.
From Tungnath, trekkers can also opt to continue on to the nearby summit of Chandrashila, which offers even more spectacular views of the Himalayas. The trail to Chandrashila is steep and challenging, but the views from the summit are truly worth the effort. The summit of Chandrashila is the highest point on the Chopta Trek, and from here, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the mighty Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Kedarnath ranges.
ABOUT THE TREK
The Chopta Trek route starts from the base village of Chopta and follows a well-defined trail that winds through dense forests of rhododendron, deodar, and oak trees. The trail is approximately 5-6 km long and takes about 4-5 hours to complete, with an elevation gain of around 1,300 metres.
As you make your way through the forests, you will be surrounded by a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, leopards, and the elusive Himalayan black bear. The trek is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, as it is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the Himalayan Monal, the national bird of Nepal.
The trail to Tungnath is well-defined and easy to follow, and the ascent is gradual, making it a comfortable and enjoyable trek for people of all ages. The trail is dotted with several tea stalls and shops, where you can take a break, enjoy a hot cup of tea, and savour the stunning views of the surrounding peaks. As you approach the summit, the trail becomes steeper and more strenuous, but the views from the top make it all worth it.
At the summit of Tungnath:
the temple complex is a sight to behold, with its white-washed walls and intricate carvings. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and the atmosphere is one of peace and serenity, with the sound of prayer bells ringing in the background.
From Tungnath, you can also opt to continue on to the nearby summit of Chandrashila, which offers even more spectacular views of the Himalayas. The trail to Chandrashila is steep and challenging, but the views from the summit are truly worth the effort. The summit of Chandrashila is the highest point on the Chopta Trek, and from here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the mighty Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Kedarnath ranges.
In summary, the Chopta Trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. You will experience the serenity of the Himalayan forests, the thrill of spotting wildlife, and the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks. The trail is well-defined and easy to follow, making it a great choice for both experienced trekkers and beginners. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, the Chopta Trek is truly a trekking gem in Uttarakhand that should not be missed.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the Chopta Trek is a trekking gem in Uttarakhand that is a must-visit for anyone who loves the great outdoors. The trek is relatively easy, making it a perfect choice for beginners and families, and the views from the summit of Tungnath and Chandrashila are truly breathtaking. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or just starting out, the Chopta Trek is a trek that should not be missed. So, pack your bags, grab your hiking gear,