About the Trek

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek, often referred to as the Mini Switzerland of India, is one of the most scenic and spiritually enriching treks in the Indian Himalayas. Located inside the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakhand, this trek beautifully combines alpine landscapes, ancient temples, and breathtaking Himalayan views.

The journey begins from Chopta, a peaceful hill hamlet surrounded by dense forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron. During spring, the rhododendrons bloom in vibrant crimson shades, while winter transforms the region into a snow-covered wonderland. The trail is also home to the Himalayan Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand, often spotted adding flashes of iridescent color to the landscape.

One of the major highlights of the trek is the sacred Tungnath Temple, standing at an altitude of 3,680 meters, making it the highest Shiva temple in the world. The spiritual energy and ancient silence of this temple create a profound experience for both devotees and nature lovers alike.

Beyond Tungnath lies the final ascent to Chandrashila Summit, meaning “Moon Rock.” Though the last stretch is steep, the reward is extraordinary. From the summit, trekkers are treated to a 360-degree panoramic view of some of the tallest and most iconic Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedar Dome, and many more.

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is considered one of the best beginner-friendly high-altitude treks in India, offering spectacular views with relatively moderate effort. It is an ideal introduction to Himalayan trekking for first-time trekkers as well as a rewarding short trek for experienced hikers.