Tucked away in the heart of Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region, Chopta is a breathtaking alpine destination often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India.” Surrounded by dense forests, rolling meadows, and majestic Himalayan peaks, this serene hamlet offers an escape into nature that’s both peaceful and soul-stirring.
Located at an altitude of 2,680 meters, Chopta is the starting point for the Tungnath Temple trek, the highest Shiva temple in the world and part of the sacred Panch Kedar pilgrimage. For those seeking awe-inspiring views, a short but steep trek further leads to Chandrashila Peak, where a 360-degree Himalayan panorama awaits, showcasing giants like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Kedar Dome.
🚌 By Bus (Budget Option)
No direct buses to Chopta.
You can take a bus to Rudraprayag or Ukhimath from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Srinagar (Garhwal).
From there, hire a shared jeep or local cab to reach Chopta.
📝 Tip: The last stretch to Chopta may have limited public transport, so it’s advisable to pre-book a cab, especially in winter.
🚆 By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar or Rishikesh
Well connected to Delhi, Dehradun, Lucknow, and other cities
From Haridwar/Rishikesh, book a private cab with Hodophile Tour and Travel or take a bus towards Ukhimath or Rudraprayag
✈️ By Air
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~220 km from Chopta)
Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, etc.
👉 Hodophile Tour and Travel offers airport pickup services and comfortable transfers to Chopta via Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Ukhimath.
📍 Final Road Leg to Chopta
The final approach to Chopta (from Ukhimath, Makku Bend, or Dugalbitta) is narrow but incredibly scenic. In winter, snow can block the last 5–10 km, in which case trekking or 4×4 vehicles may be needed—services we provide with full support.
🧳 Travel Tips:
Start early to enjoy the drive and avoid mountain traffic
Fuel up in Rudraprayag or Ukhimath – no petrol pumps in Chopta
Network is limited – BSNL works best in this region
Roads may be slippery during monsoon and winter – travel with experienced drivers
1. Tungnath Temple (3.5 km trek)
The highest Shiva temple in the world.
Famous for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance.
2. Chandrashila Peak (5 km trek)
Offers panoramic views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
Best for trekking and sunrise photography.
3. Deoria Tal (20 km)
A pristine lake with mesmerizing reflections of the Chaukhamba peaks.
Perfect for camping and stargazing.
4. Ukhimath (30 km)
Winter seat of Lord Kedarnath.
Houses Omkareshwar Temple and is culturally rich.
5. Rohini Bugyal (6 km trek)
A beautiful meadow en route to Chandrashila.
Ideal for short treks and nature lovers.
6. Sari Village (20 km)
Starting point for the Deoria Tal trek.
A quaint village with traditional Garhwali culture.
7. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary (7 km)
Known for musk deer and rare Himalayan flora.
Great for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.
8. Madhyamaheshwar Temple (70 km)
One of the Panch Kedar temples.
Requires a trek from Ransi Village.
9. Gopeshwar (40 km)
Famous for Gopinath Temple and scenic surroundings.
Gateway to many treks in the region.
10. Rudraprayag (65 km)
Confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
Spiritual and scenic spot on the way to Kedarnath.
Pick-up from Rishikesh / Haridwar / Dehradun
Scenic drive via Devprayag – Rudraprayag – Ukhimath
Check-in to campsite/lodge in Chopta
Sunset walk in alpine meadows
Overnight stay in Chopta
Early breakfast, start 3.5 km trek to Tungnath
Optional 1.5 km trek to Chandrashila peak
Panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba
Return to Chopta by evening
Bonfire and stargazing (weather permitting)
Overnight stay in Chopta
Leisure breakfast with mountain views
Drive back to Rishikesh/Haridwar
Trip concludes with blessings of Lord Shiva
Ideal for: Nature lovers, spiritual travelers, longer holidays
Drive from Rishikesh / Haridwar / Dehradun
Sightseeing en route: Devprayag Sangam, Rudraprayag
Reach Chopta, rest at eco-lodge or campsite
Evening nature walk
Overnight stay in Chopta
Early trek to Tungnath Temple
Hike to Chandrashila for Himalayan sunrise
Return and relax at campsite
Overnight stay in Chopta
Drive to Sari Village, trek 2.5 km to Deoria Tal
Enjoy the lake’s reflection of Chaukhamba peaks
Packed lunch or picnic by the lake
Return to Chopta
Chopta is a serene hill station in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and lies on the Ukhimath–Chamoli road.
Chopta is known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand” due to its lush meadows, breathtaking Himalayan views, and its proximity to famous treks like Tungnath and Chandrashila.
Summer (April–June): Pleasant weather, perfect for trekking and sightseeing.
Autumn (September–November): Clear skies and spectacular views of snow-capped peaks.
Winter (December–March): Ideal for snow lovers and winter treks.
By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (220 km).
By Train: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (200 km).
By Road: Well-connected by road from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.
Yes, Chopta offers easy to moderate treks like Tungnath (3.5 km) and Chandrashila (5 km), making it perfect for beginners and familie
