The Himalayan state of Uttarakhand boasts numerous picturesque locations, and among them, the Deorital-Chopta-Chandrashila trek stands out as a must-try experience. This remarkable journey is a gateway to pilgrimage sites like Tungnath and prominent peaks such as Chaukhamba and Nanda Devi. En route, you can explore local cultures as you pass through villages like Mastura and Sari. With temples, birds, and majestic peaks, this exciting and historically significant hike offers many experiences. Before embarking on this adventure, look at this mini guide to ensure you make the most of your time in this beautiful region.
Deoriatal Lake
Embark on your adventure by trekking towards Deoriatal Lake, approximately at 2,438 meters. This beautiful lake holds great significance in local folklore, as it is believed that gods once bathed in its sacred waters, hence earning it the name "Deoria" or "Devaria." The lake is located about 3 kilometres away from the charming villages of Mastura and Sari, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the rhythm of village life. On a clear and sunny day, you'll be treated to a magical sight&mdashthe reflection of the Chaukhamba peaks on the surface of the lake. The area is surrounded by vistas of mountains like Neelkanth, Bandarpunch, Kedar Range, and Kalanag. Nearby, you'll also find a Shiva temple where you can offer prayers. The temple is renowned for its Nagara style of architecture, adding to its allure.
Chopta
Whether you're a novice or a seasoned trekking enthusiast, it's important to note that Chopta is the starting point for several treks in the area, including the popular hike to Panch Kedars. Often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand," this picturesque landscape sits at 2,608 meters. Take a moment to pause here and bask in the sunlight amidst the meadows. As you do, you'll likely catch sight of vibrant birds fluttering across the region, as Chopta is home to a remarkable variety of avian species&mdashapproximately 240 in total&mdashboth native and migratory. Peaks like Meru, Sumeru, and Ganesh Parwat are also visible from here.
Tungnath
Perched at an elevation of 3,680 meters, this Shiva shrine stands as one of the highest in the world. You must trek at least 4 kilometres from Chopta to reach this sacred destination. Upon arrival, take a moment to offer your prayers at the shrine while enjoying the views of peaks such as Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth. This temple is significant in the Panch Kedar circuit, making it a cherished religious and historical landmark in Uttarakhand. Along the journey, you'll encounter various plant species, including the Himalayan Snake Lily, which draws visitors with its unique resemblance to a snake.
Chandrashila
The path becomes rugged and steep as you ascend, presenting a challenging terrain. The trail beyond Tungnath leads you to the highest point of the trek. Situated at approximately 4,000 meters, this summit treats you to a panorama of the majestic peaks surrounding it, including Kedar Peak, Bandar Punch, Chaukhamba Peaks, and Nanda Devi. To reach this vantage point, you'll need to cover a distance of approximately one kilometre from Tungnath. Although the distance may be relatively short, the trek poses a significant challenge due to its steep incline.
Trek Duration According to the Uttarakhand government's website, the three-destination trek will take approximately six days.
Travel Tips Before setting out, carry all trekking essentials, including comfortable shoes and a hiking pole. The patchy terrain might leave you gasping for breath regularly, so ensure you enjoy the journey and not rush through it. As responsible tourists, ensure that the trails are not littered.
Getting There Those travelling by road from Delhi, Dehradun or any other nearby city reach Rishikesh first. From there, take NH 58 and drive towards Rudraprayag. From Rudraprayag, take the road towards Ukhimath and then continue to Chopta.
Cover photo credit Unsplash