Chopta, known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a peaceful hill station in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, it offers breathtaking natural beauty. It is also the starting point for the famous trek to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world. Chopta is ideal for trekking, camping, and enjoying nature away from crowded tourist spots. Its calm atmosphere and fresh mountain air make it perfect for nature lovers.
Introduction to Chopta
Chopta is a small, beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand. It is famous for:
- Green meadows and dense forests.
- Stunning views of snow-capped Himalayan mountains.
- A peaceful environment ideal for nature lovers and trekkers.
It is also the starting point for several popular treks, including:
- Tungnath Temple trek
- Chandrashila Peak trek
Why Chopta is special:
- Called the “Mini Switzerland of India” because of its scenic beauty.
- Best time to visit: April–June and September–November.
- Great for camping, bird watching, and photography.
- Winters bring heavy snowfall, creating a winter wonderland.
Where is Chopta Located?
Chopta is in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of about 2,680 meters (8,790 feet). It lies in Rudraprayag district, surrounded by dense forests and high mountain peaks.
Geographical Location & Accessibility
- Between Rudraprayag and Kedarnath.
- Nearest town: Rudraprayag (~70 km)
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~210 km)
- Nearest railway station: Rishikesh (~190 km)
- Accessible by road from Rudraprayag, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
- Mountain roads are well-connected, allowing year-round travel.
Best Time to Visit & Road Conditions
1. Spring (March–June)
- Best time to visit: Yes – pleasant weather and blooming flowers.
- Road conditions: Mostly clear and safe. Perfect for trekking and sightseeing.
2. Monsoon (July–August)
- Best time to visit: Not recommended due to heavy rainfall.
- Road conditions: Slippery roads, landslides possible. Travel can be risky.
3. Autumn (September–November)
- Best time to visit: Yes – clear skies and beautiful views.
- Road conditions: Generally safe and accessible.
4. Winter (December–February)
- Best time to visit: For snow lovers and winter activities.
- Road conditions: Snow may block roads. Travel with caution.
How to Reach Chopta
By Road (from Delhi)
- Distance: ~450 km
- Time: 10–12 hours
- Route: Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta
- Options: Private car, taxi, or bus to Rudraprayag/Ukhimath, then local cab to Chopta.
By Air (via Dehradun)
- Fly from Delhi (IGI Airport) to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~1 hour).
- From Dehradun, take a taxi or bus to Rudraprayag/Ukhimath → Chopta (~7–8 hours by road).
By Train (via Haridwar/Rishikesh)
- Train from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh (~5–6 hours).
- Then, travel by road to Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta (~7–8 hours).
Top Tourist Attractions in Chopta
1. Tungnath Temple
- Highest Shiva temple in the world (~3,680 meters).
- Part of the Panch Kedar temples.
- Scenic 3.5 km trek from Chopta.
2. Chandrashila Peak
- Summit above Tungnath, meaning “Moon Rock.”
- Offers panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
- Famous for sunrise views and peaceful atmosphere.
3. Deoria Tal
- Serene lake at 2,438 meters.
- Famous for its mirror-like reflection of mountains.
- Easy 2 km trek, perfect for beginners.
4. Ukhimath
- Winter seat of Lord Kedarnath during snowfall months.
- Old temples and peaceful spiritual atmosphere.
5. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary
- Home to rare Himalayan musk deer.
- Ideal for wildlife lovers and bird watchers.
6. Rohini Bugyal
- Green meadow with colorful flowers in summer.
- Perfect for trekking, camping, and photography.
Activities in Chopta
- Trekking: Tungnath Temple & Chandrashila Peak.
- Camping: Tents under stars in meadows or forests.
- Bird Watching: Spot rare Himalayan birds.
- Photography: Landscapes, peaks, sunrise/sunset.
- Nature Walks: Walk peacefully through forests and meadows.
Wildlife & Flora
Chopta is rich in biodiversity and part of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Wildlife: Musk deer, Himalayan monal, leopards, foxes, barking deer.
- Birds: Woodpeckers, eagles, owls.
- Flora: Oak, pine, deodar, rhododendron.
- Medicinal Plants: Rare herbs used in Ayurveda.
- Seasonal beauty: Rhododendrons bloom in bright red and pink in spring.
Where to Stay
Homestays
- Cozy rooms: ₹2,000–₹2,500/night
- Home-cooked meals, local experience.
Camping
- Tent stays: ₹1,500–₹2,500/night
- Adventure under the stars.
Hotels & Resorts
- Rooms: ₹4,000–₹6,000/night
- Amenities: Meals, Wi-Fi, scenic mountain views.
What to Pack
- Clothing: Jackets, sweaters, woolens, layers, hat, gloves.
- Trek Gear: Hiking shoes, backpack, trekking poles, water bottle.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, raincoat, first-aid kit, medicines, power bank.
3-Day Chopta Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive and check in.
- Explore nearby meadows.
- Watch sunset over the Himalayas.
Day 2:
- Trek to Tungnath Temple.
- Continue to Chandrashila Peak.
- Return to Chopta and rest.
Day 3:
- Visit Deoria Tal or Rohini Bugyal.
- Enjoy walks, bird watching, photography.
- Pack and leave for onward journey.
Discover Chopta with Clan Stays
Experience Chopta hassle-free with Clan Stays. From clean accommodations to smooth planning, we make your trip comfortable. Enjoy the mountains and create unforgettable memories.
