You know where in India resides the ‘Mini Switzerland’? Located at an altitude of 2700 m, in the state of Uttarakhand Chopta is more than often referred to as our very own mini Switzerland! As alluring as it sounds, Chopta lies in the midst of dense forests and offers an exalting sight of the beautiful Himalayan Ranges. The road to chopta, lined by dense forests with burhans in full bloom makes it one of the most scenic routes in garhwal.
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Best Season to visit?
The place stays pleasant throughout but the best visiting months are April to June and September to November.The months of July, August and September are the monsoon months in Chopta. Rainfall during this time will be mild, and the overall weather will be pleasant. You should carry along adequate rain gear during your trip to Chopta at this time.Chopta is a highly known destination during the winter, due to the snowfall that the area experiences.
Weather?
In summers the range stays between 15 and 2 4°C and in winters it goes from -15 to 5°C.
What are the places to visit nearby?
There are a number of places that you can visit in and around Chopta, some of which include-
1. TungnathMandir Trek
Chopta offers the start to the trek towards TungnathMandir and the Chandrashila Summit. Tungnath, at a very close proximity to Chopta is situated at a height of more than 3,650 meters above sea level. A fact still unknown to many, Tungnath is the highest temple in the world dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the five PanchKedar shrines of Uttarakhand which are renowned throughout the country. When travelling to Chopta, one seldom misses the chance to visit the abode to lord Shiva, Tungnath Temple. The area around the entrance to TungnathChandrashila trek is cluttered with dhabas, hotels, pony wallas and porters.
The trek to Tunganath usually forms part of the entire PanchKedar trek covering all five temples but you can plan a shorter trek as well. It starts from Rishikesh then Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheswar and Kalpeshwar, covering a total of around 170 km.
How to Reach?
From Chopta, Tungnath is a 4km trek on a well laden path.
Things to do?
Camping, trekking, pilgrimage.
2. Chandrashila
The summit of Tungnath, Chandrashila is perched at a height of over 4000 mts (above sea level). This place provides a panoramic view of the Himalayas, including Nandadevi, Trisul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch and Chaukhamba peaks. covered with snow during the winters.TheChopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila trek is a famous destinations for trekkers. The Chopta region has many treks and trails cutting through jungles and grasslands.
According to a very renowned legend, this is the place where Lord Rama meditated after defeating the demon Ravana. Another legend says that moon-god Chandra spent time here in penitance.
3. Deodar Tal
Located on the Ukhimath-Chopta road in Uttarakhand, Deoria Tal is a beautiful lake located near Chopta. This heavenly place offers you tranquility and a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks including Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, Bandarpunch, Kedar Range and Kalanag. This place is perfect for overnight camping and treks.
The beautiful and tranquil valley of Chopta is sure to delight your senses and give you a ride for life. It is one of the ‘must visit’ places in India that is certain to leave you awe struck!

