Climb to the summit known for India’s most stunning sunrise over the Himalayas.
Climb to the summit known for India’s most stunning sunrise over the Himalayas.
The Tungnath–Chandrashila and Deoriatal Trek is one of the most scenic short Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand, offering a perfect blend of spiritual pilgrimage, mountain adventure and stunning natural beauty. This trek takes travellers through dense forests, alpine meadows and high-altitude viewpoints, leading to the ancient Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple on Earth. The trek continues further to the Chandrashila summit, which provides one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul and Chaukhamba.
Another highlight of the journey is Deoria Tal, a pristine lake famous for reflecting the Chaukhamba mountain range.
The journey typically begins from Rishikesh, driving through scenic Garhwal valleys to reach the beautiful region of Chopta, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India.” From Chopta, the trek to Tungnath begins along a well-paved mountain trail surrounded by rhododendron forests and open meadows.
Upon reaching Tungnath Temple, trekkers continue a short but steep climb to Chandrashila summit. The summit is famous for its spectacular sunrise views where the golden light illuminates some of the highest Himalayan peaks. Another highlight of the trek is visiting Deoriatal, which involves a scenic forest hike from Sari village. The crystal-clear lake perfectly mirrors the Chaukhamba massif, making it one of the most photogenic locations in Uttarakhand. Together, these locations create a compact yet unforgettable Himalayan trekking experience.
The Tungnath–Chandrashila and Deoriatal Trek can be enjoyed throughout most of the year except during heavy monsoon months. The best time to visit is April to June and September to November, when the weather remains clear and the Himalayan views are at their best. Spring brings blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn offers crisp air and crystal-clear mountain views. Winter months from December to February transform the trail into a snow-covered wonderland.
The solitude level of this trek can be described as moderate. Since it is one of the most popular short treks in Uttarakhand, the Tungnath trail receives a steady flow of visitors, especially during weekends. However, the surrounding forests and alpine meadows provide plenty of quiet spaces where trekkers can enjoy peaceful moments. Deoriatal, in particular, offers a tranquil environment where visitors can relax beside the calm lake and enjoy the majestic mountain views.
The trek is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and families. The trekking distance from Chopta to Tungnath is approximately 3.5 km, followed by an additional 1.5 km climb to Chandrashila summit. The Deoriatal trek from Sari village is around 2.5 km through forest trails. The region lies at an altitude of around 2,700 meters at Chopta and rises to about 4,000 meters at Chandrashila summit.
Travellers typically reach Chopta via road from Rishikesh or Haridwar, passing through Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath. Comfortable trekking shoes, warm layers and rain protection are recommended since mountain weather can change quickly.
The Tungnath–Chandrashila and Deoriatal Trek is ideal for travellers seeking a short yet rewarding Himalayan adventure. It offers some of the most spectacular sunrise viewpoints in Uttarakhand, spiritual significance through the Tungnath Temple and pristine natural beauty around Deoriatal Lake. Because the trek is relatively short and accessible, it is considered one of the best beginner treks in the Himalayas.
Adventure enthusiasts, photographers and spiritual travellers are drawn to this region for its dramatic mountain scenery, peaceful forests and unique combination of trekking and pilgrimage.
The journey includes several breathtaking locations that make the trek unforgettable. The Tungnath Temple offers both spiritual significance and stunning mountain views, while Chandrashila summit provides a panoramic 360-degree Himalayan vista that is considered one of the best sunrise viewpoints in Uttarakhand. Deoriatal Lake is another major highlight, where visitors can witness the reflection of the Chaukhamba peaks on calm waters.
Activities during this trek include scenic mountain trekking, sunrise photography at Chandrashila, nature walks through rhododendron forests, camping near Deoriatal Lake, wildlife spotting and peaceful meditation in the Himalayan environment.
Begin your journey early morning from Rishikesh as you drive along the Ganga’s winding flow, passing through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath. The route opens into scenic valleys, forested cliffs, and panoramic mountain views as you gradually ascend toward Chopta, also known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.”
Enjoy the cool mountain air, acclimatize naturally, and prepare for the sacred Tungnath trek the next day.
Distance Covered: ~180 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude Gain: 340 m → 2,680 m
Start your morning early for one of the most beautiful Himalayan pilgrimages. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath spans around 3.5 km, moving through stone-paved trails, rhododendron forests, and wide open ridges leading to the highest Shiva temple on Earth.
After darshan at Tungnath (3,680 m), continue your climb to Chandrashila Peak for a 360-degree panorama of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Kedarnath ranges.
Descend back to Chopta by afternoon with a heart full of divine energy and breathtaking memories.
Trek Distance: ~7 km round trip
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude Gain: 2,680 m → 4,000 m
After a relaxed breakfast, drive from Chopta to Sari Village, a short yet scenic journey through pine forests and charming mountain hamlets.
Start your trek to Deoriatal, a 3 km trail that gradually opens into a serene alpine lake reflecting the mighty Chaukhamba peaks.
Spend peaceful moments at the lake, walk around the meadow, and immerse yourself in the quiet of the Himalayas before trekking back to Sari.
Drive Distance: ~20 km
Trek Distance: ~6 km round trip
Altitude Change: 2,680 m → 2,300 m (Deoriatal: 2,438 m)
After breakfast, begin your return journey toward Rishikesh.
Enjoy scenic stops along the way including river confluences, forest views, and peaceful mountain roads.
Reach Rishikesh by evening, bringing your short yet soul-refreshing Himalayan escape to a beautiful close.
Distance Covered: ~180 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude Drop: 2,300 m → 340 m
The Tungnath–Chandrashila trek is considered easy to moderate, making it one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is about 3.5 km on a well-paved trail, followed by a short but steeper 1.5 km climb to Chandrashila summit.
The best time for this trek is April to June and September to November, when the weather is clear and the Himalayan views are spectacular. Spring brings blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn offers crisp skies and excellent visibility of peaks. Winter from December to February is also popular for snow trekking.
This trek usually takes 2 to 4 days, depending on the itinerary. Most tours start from Rishikesh, travel to Chopta, trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila, and include a visit to Deoria Tal via Sari village.
Yes, oxygen cylinders and first-aid kits are available at Chopta base. Our trek leader is trained in handling altitude-related situations.
Chopta can be reached by road from Rishikesh, Haridwar or Dehradun. The drive from Rishikesh to Chopta is approximately 200 km and passes through beautiful Himalayan towns like Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath.
Generally, no special permits are required for the Tungnath–Chandrashila trek since the trail is open to visitors throughout most of the year. However, entry to Deoria Tal may require a small forest department fee because it lies within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary region.
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