Your Fast Itinerary for the Chopta-Tungnath Trek (Winter edition)
Simply put, yes! One can do the Chopta to Tungnath trek in a single day even during the winter season. The trek is often referred to as an ideal weekend trek or a beginner’s snow trek, and thus the relatively short distance as well as the well-marked trail allow for a quick turnaround.
Nevertheless, a winter day trek entails that the trekker starts very early, keeps a fast pace, and is equipped with the proper winter trekking gear. So, here is your in-depth, rapid-moving plan to get to the highest Shiva temple in the world and back before it gets dark.
The Fast Chopta Tungnath Itinerary
Phase 1 : Morning: Ascent and Summit Push
- 07:00 AM: Start the Trek
Definitely a crucial early start. Although the road is paved, it will most probably be covered with fresh snow or ice. You must start early if you want to make full use of the daylight hours. The altitude of Chopta is approximately 8,700 ft (2,680m).
- 09:30 AM: Arrive at Tungnath Temple
This segment is a 3.5 km uphill walk. You have now arrived at the Highest Shiva Temple in the world! Take 30–45 minutes for pictures and relaxation.
- 10:15 AM: Begin Chandrashila Ascent
The next and the last part of the story is the climb to the summit which is around 1.5 km away from Tungnath. This is the steepest part of the trail; therefore, expect deep snow and ice.
- 11:30 AM: Reach Chandrashila Summit
Awesome! Take the time to relax and enjoy the 360-degree Himalayan views. On a clear day, one can see, among others, the peaks of Chaukhamba and Nanda Devi. This peak is named Roopkund Heaven because of its otherworldly high-altitude beauty.
Phase 2 : Afternoon Descent and Finish
- 12:00 PM: Start Descent from Summit
Descent should start while the sun is still up. The road down can be difficult especially if the temperature is low and the snow is not melting. Thus, use your trekking poles and make small steps carefully.
- 02:30 PM: Reach Tungnath and Head Down
Rest for a while and have a snack if you like. Keep in mind that most of the dhabas (small eateries) along the trail which are usually open in the summer are closed during the winter, so be sure to bring your own food.
- 4:30 PM: Arrive Back at Chopta
By good and quick downward walking, you will be brought back to the base. Sunset will still be quite far away (although it is earlier in winter), so you will be able to finish your one-day winter trek safely and visibly.
Winter Trekking Essentials: The Gear Checklist
A Tungnath winter trek is a pure adventure with snow. Proper gear is mandatory for both safety and comfort.
- Footwear & Traction: Waterproof trekking shoes with good ankle support are a must-have. Also, wear gaiters to keep snow out of your boots, and microspikes/crampons should be your choice of equipment for excellent grip on icy patches.
- Layers (Dressing Strategy): Remember layers! Put on Thermal base layers (top and bottom), Fleece or down jacket (mid-layer), and a Waterproof/windproof outer shell.
- Accessories: Have warm gloves (a waterproof outer pair is absolutely necessary), a woolen cap/balaclava, UV-protected sunglasses (a must if you want to prevent snow blindness), and a headlamp with you.
- Safety & Support: The use of trekking pole(s) cannot be emphasized enough for stability on the snow/ice. Also, carry with you packed lunch, high-energy snacks (nuts, energy bars), and a thermos full of hot water.
Once at the Chandrashila Summit, it is advisable to step back and take in the view. This point, with its awesome 360-degree view of the Garhwal Himalayas, is what the trekkers call a sneak peek at the beautiful heaven. No matter wherever you go in the world, the panoramic view from this trek is something you won’t ever forget in your whole life.
The experience of standing on top of Chandrashila Peak completely surrounded by the snow-clad mountains is just as profound and awe-inspiring as a high-altitude spiritual experience. It’s a tough climb but the true high point of the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila circuit.
Key Takeaways for Success
- The Tungnath trek difficulty in winter is generally moderate due to the snow and icy conditions.
- Start Time is King: Very important to be there at 07:00 AM to start the journey and achieve the 10 km (round-trip, including Chandrashila) before the short winter daylight fades.
- Check Conditions: Be sure to check for updates on snowfall and road conditions leading to Chopta before setting out as big snow can close the road.
Are you set to exchange the hectic life of the city for the peaceful, snow-covered hills of Uttarakhand?
This is a pretty good plan. Chopta remains untouched and tranquil, yet it is not that simple to get there as there are no direct trains or flights.
Chopta is best reached by road, which connects the major hubs in Uttarakhand that are well-linked to the rest of India.
Here is a table of the best ways to get there, according to your preferred mode of transport:
1. By Air (Fastest Option)
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun.
- Distance to Chopta: About 220 km (7–8 hours by car).
- Last Leg: Once you are there, you will definitely have to hire a private taxi to get to Chopta or Rudraprayag/Ukhimath town, and then the rest of the way (30-40 km) take a local cab.
2. By Rail (Most Common)
Haridwar and Rishikesh are the most convenient railway stations. Haridwar usually has more flights and connections with major Indian cities.
- Haridwar Junction (HW) : 226 km : Get a private cab, or a bus to Rudraprayag/Ukhimath.
- Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH) : 205 km : Get a private cab, or a bus to Rudraprayag/Ukhimath.
3. By Road (Recommended Route)
Every bit of the trip to Chopta is breathtaking as it goes through the Garhwal Himalayas. It is a 8 hours drive in the Garhwal region crossing by river ganga.
A. Private Taxi/Car (Most Convenient):
B. Public Transport That Is Most Budget-Friendly:
- Step 1 (Bus): Board a state transport bus from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Rudraprayag or Ukhimath.
- Note: There are no direct buses to Chopta. Buses that take early morning runs (around 4:00 AM to 9:00 AM) to Ukhimath or Guptkashi are to be expected, as these are the closest locations.
- Step 2 (Local Taxi): If you are at Ukhimath (the last major stop for buses), then together with other passengers you can rent a jeep or hire a local taxi, which will take you 30 km to the top of Chopta. The time duration here is about 1–1.5 hours.
A Quick Tip To Smooth Your Trip
If you want the least trouble possible, many travelers prefer the round trip private taxi booking from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Chopta. Conversely, if you are on a tight budget, then opt for an overnight bus from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh and then local buses and shared taxis from there.
Know that roads shortly before Chopta will be snow-laden and thus blocked during the heavy winter period (usually from December to March), which implies a short trek or an overnight stay in a lower village such as Duggalbitta or Baniyakund.
