Chopta Valley - Trek Route to Tungnath
Uttarakhand or Uttaranchal is a beautiful state in the Himalayan region that is home to several hill stations, picturesque locales, temples and resorts. Over the years, the state has also developed into a holiday retreat for adventure lovers and trekkers. The green valleys, meandering streams merging into rivers and the blooming flowers on the peaks offer a stunning sight to visitors.
The Chopta Valley in Uttarakhand is a small hamlet that forms a base for trekkers heading to Tungnath and Chandrashila. Tungnath has the highest Shiva temple in the state and thousands of tourists, trekking groups and devotees travel every year through the Chopta Valley. This valley has an altitude of 2680 meters above sea level and offers clear views of the Himalayan peaks and the Nanda Devi Temple.
What to see in Chopta Valley
Surrounded by thick pine and deodar forest, Chopta Valley wears a green look throughout the year. Since the region has a sparse population, it is tranquil and unpolluted. If you are visiting during December-January, you may witness snowfall. Summer and spring brings back the green carpet of meadow.
Deoria Tal - The Deoria Lake falls on the way to Chopta valley on Ukhimath-Chopta road. The snow covered Chaukhamba mountains form a beautiful backdrop. The lake is also a scenic place surrounded by dense forests. There are several options for camping and trekking here.
Excursion from Chopta Valley
Two nearby places to visit from Chopta Valley are:
Chandrashila - The pinnacle of Chandrabati Hill is known as Chandrashila. It is on this hill that the Tungnath Temple is situated. At an altitude of 4,000 meters, it is a trekker's heaven. The Himalayan peaks of Trishul and Nanda Devi are distinctly visible from here.
Tungnath - Situated in the Rudraprayag district in Uttarakhand, Tungnath is well known as the abode of Lord Shiva. It is one of the 'Panch Kedar' temple perched atop 3,680 meters, making it the highest shrine in the state. The 4 km trek to Tungnath Temple begins at Chopta. This temple is believed to be 1000 years old and has images of Parvati. Visitors also acclaim the magnificent architecture of this small temple.
Tungnath remains inaccessible during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and the priests move the Shiva idol to Mukunath at a distance of 19km.
