Chopta, an enchanting and picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand, exudes a surreal ambiance with its lush evergreen forests and meadows. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, it serves as an ideal destination for trekkers. Renowned as the “Mini Switzerland” of India, Chopta boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Discover below a collection of the finest places to explore in Chopta that will undoubtedly leave you awestruck.
13 Astonishing Places to Explore in Chopta
Are you seeking remarkable places to visit in Chopta, Uttarakhand? This rejuvenating location is renowned for its captivating experiences. Here is a list of the finest destinations in Chopta that will add excitement to your trip. Take a glance at these options and decide which places you wish to include in your vacation itinerary.
1. Tungnath – The Exalted Temple
Situated at a staggering altitude of 3680 meters, Tungnath is the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the world. Prepare to witness an unparalleled panoramic view of the Himalayas from this sacred spot. Tungnath is also one of the esteemed Panch Kedar shrines in Uttarakhand. Although trekking to Tungnath is required, it is considered one of the easiest treks, perfect for beginners. Surrounding this village are evergreen forests adorned with pine, deodar, and rhododendron trees.
Things To Experience: Unforgettable camping under the starry sky, trekking through meadows and hamlets, visiting the holy templeLocation: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand 246419
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2. Deoria Tal – A Serene Retreat
Located just 3 kilometers away from Sari village, this heavenly lake offers tranquility and peace. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks. Embark on an exploration of the local village, either on your own or with a group, to gain insight into the lives of the mountain people. Capturing the daily lives of the village folk through your camera lens is a must-do! Mythological tales claim that this place served as the spot where Yaksha, a divine being, posed challenging questions to the Pandavas. Deoria Tal is perched at an astounding altitude of 2300 meters above sea level, making it one of the premier attractions in Chopta.
Things To Experience: Mesmerizing trek to the lake, immersing yourself in the local life, camping overnight by the lakeLocation: Uttarakhand, India
3. Chandrashila – The Snow-Capped Summit
Situated atop the mountain where Tungnath Mandir and Chopta reside, Chandrashila offers a breathtaking experience. With an elevation of 4000 meters above sea level, it is one of the top locations for sightseeing in Chopta. From Chandrashila, you can marvel at the 360-degree view of the Himalayan peaks, including Kedar, Nandadevi, Chaukhamba, and Trishul.
According to legend, Chandrashila is the sacred place where Lord Ram meditated after his victory over Ravana. Chopta is steeped in myths associated with the Ramayana. The name Chandrashila literally translates to “Moon Rock.” Visitors can also explore the temple dedicated to the goddess Ganga, perched atop Chadrashila. The mesmerizing views offered by the Chandrashila trek attract tourists time and time again.
Activities: Embark on a trek, admire the breathtaking Himalayan panorama, explore a temple.Destination: Uttarakhand, India
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4. Ukhimath – Praise The Divine
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Known as the winter sanctuary of Kedarnath, Ukhimath provides a divine abode for Lord Shiva when Kedarnath remains inaccessible during the winter season. Here, you can also feast your eyes on the majestic Himalayas. This sacred temple attracts numerous devotees throughout the year, its serene ambiance adding to the allure of the place.
Ukhimath is perched at an elevation of 1300 meters, offering a tranquil escape into spirituality.
Activities: Embark on a trek, pay homage at the Ukhimath temple, marvel at the breathtaking Himalayan vista.Destination: Uttarakhand, India
5. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary – Encounter Playful Deer
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Spanning over 5 sq. km along the Chopta-Gopeshwar road, the Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary is a dense forest teeming with a wide range of exotic Himalayan birds and animals. Renowned for its musk deer population, this sanctuary offers a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as you spot rare Himalayan species. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars for observing distant animals and birds.
Activities: Embark on a safari, indulge in wildlife watching.Destination: Uttarakhand, India
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6. Madhyamaheshwar Mandir – Experience a Sacred Journey
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Also referred to as Madmaheshawar, the Madhyamaheshwar Mandir is where devotees revere Lord Shiva’s stomach. This enchanting temple stands as one of the most captivating tourist attractions near Chopta. Located at an altitude of 3200 m above sea level, it is enveloped by snow-dressed Himalayan peaks on one side and lush alpine meadows on the other. Feast your eyes on the mesmerizing Neelkanth and Kedarnath peaks visible from this divine site.
Activities: Engage in sightseeing, visit the temple, revel in the awe-inspiring Himalayan panorama.Location: Madhyamaheshwar Temple Trek, Uttarakhand 246469
7. Rohini Bugyal – Camp Alongside Your Companions
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An additional gem from the top destinations to explore in Chopta is Rohini Bugyal. Enveloped by the lush foliage of Chopta Valley, Rohini Bugyal translates to a verdant meadow. This exquisite location can be experienced while trekking to the Chandrashila peak via Deoria Tal, making it an ideal spot for camping. If you possess an adventurous spirit, ensure to venture into this meadow with your companions and revel in tranquil moments. Undoubtedly, this ranks among the most sought-after attractions of Chopta.
Activities: Engage in trekking, camping, and sightseeing.
Location: Uttarakhand, India
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8. Dugalbitta – Concealed Hamlet
Travel enthusiasts bound for Chopta may have come across Dugalbitta, a petite settlement that often gets overshadowed by the fame of Chopta. Those who seek solace away from the hustle and bustle of tourism should allocate some time to explore Dugalbitta, as it ranks among the top offbeat destinations in Chopta.
Activities: Partake in birdwatching, delve into the Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary, and go trekking.
Location: Uttarakhand, India
9. Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev – A Spiritual Pilgrimage
In Chopta, you will discover another splendid location known as Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev temple, situated in Deoria Tal. This divine temple is dedicated to Nag Devta, the serpent king of Hindu mythology. Noteworthy for its unparalleled architecture, reminiscent of the iconic temples in Uttarakhand, especially the Mandap and Garbgriha, the temple will transport you into a world of mythical tales shared by the locals. For absolute serenity, this place is a must-visit among the numerous enchanting attractions in Chopta.
Activities: Embark on a religious expedition, relish picturesque vistas, and capture captivating photographs.
Location: Sari village
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10. Sari Village – Tranquil Getaway
Sari Village, also known as Saari Gaon, stands as one of the prominent destinations to explore in Chopta. Serving as the base camp for Deorial Lake, this serene village sits at an elevation of 7800 feet and offers idyllic escapes for romantic souls. Conveniently connected to major attractions in Chopta and easily accessible by road, this village has rightfully earned its place among the most exquisite tourist spots in Chopta.
List of Activities: Trekking, hiking
Location: Sari, Uttarakhand
11. Kalimath Temple – Enlightening Moments
If you are considering exploring the renowned temples of Uttarakhand in the vicinity of Chopta, then Kalimath should definitely be on your list of must-visit places! This temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, holds a fascinating legend. It is said that after defeating a demon named Raktbeej, the goddess went below the surface at this very spot.
Things To Do: Spiritual expedition, sightseeing
Location: Ukhimath, Rudraprayag
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12. Bisurital – Exhilaration for the Adventurous
Bisurital, a tranquil lake nestled at an elevation of 4000 meters above sea level, is among the most renowned attractions in Chopta. As you visit this lake, you will be captivated by the breathtaking sights of the Mandakini valley. Known as a preferred destination for trekking enthusiasts vacationing in Chopta, this place offers an opportunity to witness the unblemished beauty of Uttarakhand, away from the usual tourist crowd.
Things To Do: Trekking, hiking, sightseeing
Location: Mandakini Valley
13. Baniyakund – Unmatched Splendor
Baniyakund is a true paradise for nature lovers seeking an encounter with the mesmerizing beauty of Uttarakhand. Situated in the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary, it overlooks the expansive horizon of the Garhwal Himalayas. This destination near Chopta will undoubtedly captivate you with its panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys. To reach here, a short road journey of 15-20 minutes is required.
Things To Do: Sightseeing, visit the Tungnath Temple en route
Location: Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary
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Optimal Time for Chopta Exploration
Chopta is a hill station that can be visited at any time of the year. During the summer season, the weather remains pleasant, making it an ideal destination for those in search of a tranquil getaway. The summer season begins in April and lasts until June. In winter, the region becomes chilly with snowfall, transforming the entire landscape into a picturesque white wonderland. The best time to witness snowfall is from October to December. If you plan to visit the Tungnath Temple, keep in mind that it remains open from April to November, allowing you to align your trip accordingly.
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Getting to Chopta
To reach Chopta, you can fly to the nearest airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 97 km away. From there, you can easily hire a taxi to reach your destination. Another option is to take a train to Rishikesh Railway Station, which is around 100 km from Chopta. This is a convenient mode of transportation to reach Chopta. If you prefer to drive, you can take the NH58 highway from Delhi to Chopta.
If you know of any other amazing places to visit in Chopta, please share them in the comments below to help fellow travelers plan an unforgettable Chopta trip. Chopta offers incredible experiences for families and friends alike.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chopta
When is the ideal time to visit Chopta?
The best time of the year to visit Chopta is from April to November, which offers ideal weather for various adventure activities. For snow activities, December to March is the perfect time to visit.
How many days are recommended for a Chopta trip?
A 3-4 day trip is sufficient to explore and visit all the major attractions in Chopta. You can complete the trek in about 3 days. However, you can always extend your stay if you wish to explore more places.
Is it safe to visit Chopta during the Covid pandemic?
Yes, it is safe to visit Chopta as long as you follow the necessary guidelines and precautions. It is recommended to get vaccinated before planning your trip, wear masks at all times, maintain social distance in public areas, and regularly sanitize your hands to prevent the spread of the virus.
What makes Chopta famous?
Chopta is renowned for its breathtaking snow-capped mountains and exciting adventure activities such as skiing, trekking, and bird watching.
Is camping in Chopta secure?
Camping in Chopta is a wonderful experience and completely safe. You can enjoy various adventure activities while camping in this beautiful landscape.
How can I reach the Chandrashila peak?
The last accessible road to Chandrashila peak is through Chopta. From there, you will need to trek approximately 3.5 km to Tungnath, and then an additional 1.5 km to reach the Chandrashila summit.
What is the bus route to Chopta?
As there are no direct buses to Chopta, you can take a public transport bus to Rishikesh and then hire a bus or taxi to reach Chopta.
How long is the Tungnath Trek?
The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is approximately 4 km and takes around 3 hours to complete.
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