Short answer: From Chopta, at about 2,600–2,700 m in Uttarakhand, a stone path climbs roughly 3.5 km to Tungnath, described as the highest Shiva temple at about 3,680 m, and about 1.5 km more to the Chandrashila summit at roughly 3,950–3,980 m. Allow four to five hours for the round trip, longer with time at the top. April to June and September to November are best. In winter the trail is under snow and the temple deity is moved down to Makkumath.
Trek at a glance
| Detail | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Start | Chopta, about 2,600–2,700 m |
| Tungnath | About 3.5 km up; about 3,680 m |
| Chandrashila | About 1.5 km beyond; roughly 3,950–3,980 m (sources differ) |
| Round trip | About 7 km to the temple and back; about 10 km with the summit |
| Time | 4–5 hours walking; a full day with breaks |
| Path | Paved to Tungnath; a steeper rocky trail to the summit |
The route
- Chopta to Tungnath. A steady climb on a stone path through rhododendron and open meadow, with tea stalls in season.
- Tungnath temple. One of the Panch Kedar shrines. Dress modestly and remove shoes.
- Tungnath to Chandrashila. A steeper ridge trail to a small summit shrine and a wide view of the Garhwal and Kumaon peaks on a clear day.
- Return the same way; start down by early afternoon.
Many trekkers add Deoriatal, a lake reached from Sari village, about 20 km before Chopta.
When to go
- April–June: rhododendrons in spring, then clear summer days. The temple usually opens around late April or May; the date is announced each year.
- July–August: monsoon; views are poor and roads are landslide-prone.
- September–November: the clearest mountain views.
- December–March: a snow trek for those with a guide, proper boots and microspikes. The temple is closed and the road to Chopta itself can be blocked.
How to reach
From Rishikesh the road runs through Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath to Chopta. Published distances range from about 165 to 240 km and six to nine hours, depending on the route. There is no direct bus for the whole way; most people hire a cab from Rishikesh or Rudraprayag.
Practical points
- Start by 6–7 am for the clearest views; cloud builds by midday.
- Take the climb slowly. You gain over 1,000 m in a few hours, and some people feel the altitude.
- Carry water, a warm layer and rain cover. Mobile network is limited beyond Sari.
- Chopta is inside a wildlife sanctuary: stays are simple and electricity is limited. Carry your rubbish back.
More on the state: best places to visit in Uttarakhand and Uttarakhand beyond Mussoorie and Nainital.
Check before you go
- Uttarakhand Tourism — official destination and temple information.
- India Meteorological Department — forecasts and warnings.
- HRTC online booking — state bus timetables and fares.
Plan a Chopta trip
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the Tungnath trek?
About 3.5 km one way from Chopta, and a further 1.5 km to Chandrashila.
Is the Chopta Tungnath trek difficult?
Easy to moderate. The path to the temple is paved; the summit section is steeper.
What is the height of Tungnath and Chandrashila?
Tungnath is about 3,680 m; Chandrashila is roughly 3,950–3,980 m.
Is Tungnath open in winter?
The temple closes for winter and the deity is moved to Makkumath. The trail can be walked in snow with a guide.
Can beginners do it?
Yes, in the dry months, with an early start and a steady pace.
Compiled by the Funtoor team from published sources and official pages, last reviewed in October 2026. It is a planning guide, not a first-hand trip report; distances, fees, rules and timetables change and sources differ, so confirm anything time-sensitive before you travel.
Written by
Funtoor Travel Team
Travel planners based in Chail, Himachal Pradesh. We plan and arrange trips — stays, transport and experiences — across the Himalayas.
