Best Time to Visit Chopta: A Seasonal Guide for Travelers
Chopta is also the base trekking of Tungnath,
which has a third temple at 3.5 KM uphill. This place is best for a person who
likes trekking. One of the most famous spots for trekking is the Chopta Chandrashila
trek. Chandrashilla, Tunganath, and Devariyatal are the
three places that are best for trekking Chopta Chopta has many different
kinds of birds and Chopta become much more popular for birdwatchers.
Places to visit in Chopta
- Tungnath
Temple: This is one of the highest Lord Shiva temples
which is about 3,680mts above sea level on the Chandranath
Mountain. This is one of the best Hindu religious places for
worshipping Lord Shiva. You can also do a trek here at the
highest temple of Lord Shiva from Chopta. One
can also reach Tungnath by doing a 4 KM step trek.
- Chandrashila:
Chandrashila can become to after somewhat more than 1km trek from
Tungnath. From Chandrashila one can appreciate 360-degree panoramic
perspectives on the massive Himalayas. Chandrashila is the
most elevated purpose of the mountain on which Tungnath Temple and
Chopta are found. Chandrashila is arranged at a surprising elevation of
4090mts above ocean level.
- Deoriatal: This
place is located at Ukhimath-Chopta road which is a high
altitude lake and one reaches here by doing a trek of 3 KM from
villages Mastura and Sari. If you love
camping then this is the best spot for you.
Activities to do in Chopta
- Kanchula
korak musk deer sanctuary: Spread over a territory of 5 sq km, it
is the ideal spot to investigate rich greenery and the types of Musk
deer. It is as yet a strange goal, and only local people can control one
well to reach here.
- Trekking: Chopta
is the best place and is famous for trekking. Some famous trek spot
are Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila. One can also go trekking at Deoriatal
which is one of the closest destinations.
- Camping: If
you want to spend some time under the sky with stars then you can also do
Camping at Deoriatal which is a beautiful landscape. It also has a calm
and amazing environment which makes it a perfect place to stay.
If you are thinking of planning a trip to Uttarakhand then must
at Chopta in your trip list. This is an amazing place for
doing trekking and Camping with beautiful nature. If you are a nature lover
then it is a perfect place for you.
So, I hope this article is helpful and informative too for
you guys. If you have any doubt then comment below or contact us we will try to
help you as soon as possible.
About Chopta - Chopta Sightseeing - Uttarakhand
Chopta is a picturesque hill station located in the
Rudraprayag district of the state of Uttarakhand. It is situated in the Garhwal
region of the Himalayas and is known for its stunning natural beauty, panoramic
views, and trekking opportunities. Situated at an elevation of around 8,790
feet. Chopta Tungnath is often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India”
because of its lush green meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains.
The region is a part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and offers a rich variety
of flora and fauna. It is also the starting point for the trek to the famous
Tungnath Temple, which is the highest Shiva temple in the World. Tungnath
Temple is located at an altitude of around 12,073 feet and is a popular
pilgrimage site for Hindus. The trek to Tungnath temple starts from Chopta and
is a moderate-level trek that takes you through scenic trails, rhododendron
forests, and beautiful meadows. Another popular trek from Chopta is the
Chandrashila trek, which takes you to the Chandrashila peak at an altitude of
13,550 feet. Apart from trekking, Chopta is also a great place for camping,
birdwatching, and photography. Overall, Chopta is a charming destination that
offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and spirituality.
History Of Chopta
Chopta, like many other regions in Uttarakhand, has a rich
history intertwined with mythology and religious significance. While specific
historical events related to Chopta might be scarce, the region holds immense
cultural and spiritual importance. According to Hindu mythology, Chopta is
believed to be the place where Lord Rama, accompanied by his wife Sita and
brother Lakshmana, stayed during their exile in the forests. The area is
associated with the epic Ramayana and is considered sacred by devotees. Chopta
is also closely linked to the Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas
and an important pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. The trek to Tungnath
Temple and Chandrashila Peak, starting from Chopta, is believed to be part of
the Pandavas’ journey to heaven, as mentioned in the Mahabharata. From a
historical perspective, the region of Chopta falls under the Kedar Khand region
of Uttarakhand, which has been a significant center of spirituality for
centuries. The Kedar Khand region is home to numerous temples and religious
sites, attracting pilgrims from all over the country. In more recent history,
Chopta and its surrounding areas have gained popularity as a tourist
destination due to its natural beauty and trekking opportunities. The region
has seen an increase in tourism and infrastructure development to accommodate
the growing number of visitors. It is important to note that Chopta and its
history are closely intertwined with religious beliefs, mythology, and cultural
significance.
Places to Visit in Chopta
Chopta and its surrounding region offer several beautiful
places to visit. There are some popular tourist attractions in Chopta, such as
Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, Deoriatal Lake, Ukhimath, Kartik Swami
Temple, and Madmaheshwar.
Tungnath Temple
Tungnath Temple is a significant religious site located in
the Chopta region of Uttarakhand. It is renowned as the highest Shiva temple in
the World and holds great importance for devotees and trekkers alike. The
temple is situated at an altitude of 12,073 feet above sea level, amidst the
stunning backdrop of the Himalayan ranges. It is a part of the Panch Kedar
pilgrimage, which consists of five temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Tungnath is
the third temple in the Panch Kedar circuit, with Kedarnath being the most
revered among them. Devotees believed that Tungnath is more than a thousand
years old and has mythological connections to the epic Mahabharata. According
to legend, after the Kurukshetra War, the Pandavas wanted to seek Lord Shiva’s
forgiveness for the bloodshed. Tungnath is believed to be where Lord Shiva’s
arms appeared. The trek to Tungnath Temple begins from Chopta and covers a
distance of approximately 4 km. The temple itself is small and made of stone,
with intricate carvings and a distinct Himalayan architectural style. It
remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall in the region and
reopens in the summer season, usually around May or June. Whether for spiritual
reasons or the love of trekking, Tungnath Temple is a revered destination that
attracts visitors seeking inner peace.
Chandrashila Peak
Chandrashila Peak is a stunning summit located in the
Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 13,550 feet, it
offers breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan ranges.
Chandrashila, which translates to “Moon Rock”, is a popular trekking
destination that can be reached from Chopta. The trek to Chandrashila begins at
Chopta and covers a distance of around 5 km. The trail winds through dense
forests of rhododendron and oak trees and as you ascend, you’ll be rewarded
with mesmerizing views of the surrounding landscapes. In addition to the
stunning mountain vistas, Chandrashila is also known for its spiritual
significance. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama meditated after
defeating the demon king Ravana in the epic Ramayana. The trek to Chandrashila
is considered moderately challenging and it usually takes a few hours to reach
the summit from Chopta, depending on your pace. The best time to undertake the
trek is during the summer and autumn months when the weather is generally
pleasant and the trails are accessible. Overall, Chandrashila Peak offers a
unique combination of adventure, natural beauty, and spirituality.
Deoriatal Lake
Deoriatal Lake is a picturesque freshwater lake located in
the Uttarakhand region near Chopta. Situated at an altitude of around 7,999
feet, it is known for its serene beauty and tranquil surroundings. The lake is
nestled amidst dense forests of oak, rhododendrons, and deodar trees, adding to
its natural charm. One of the highlights of Deoriatal Lake is its crystal-clear
waters, which reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks and create a mesmerizing
mirror-like effect. The trek to Deoriatal Lake begins from Sari village, which
is approximately 3 km away from the lake. The best time to visit Deoriatal Lake
is during the summer and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the
lake is accessible. Vising Deoriatal Lake offers a serene escape from the
hustle and bustle of city life.
Kartik Swami Temple
The Kartik Swami Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated
to Lord Kartikeya, also known as Lord Murugan, and is located in the
Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is situated atop a hill at an altitude
of approximately 10,170 feet, offering panoramic views of the surrounding
Himalayan peaks and valleys. The temple holds great significance among devotees
and is believed to be the place where Lord Kartikeya meditated after leaving
Kashi. The temple is also associated with the epic Mahabharata, as it is
believed that the Pandavas, the heroes of Mahabharata, visited this temple
during their exile. Upon reaching the temple, visitors are greeted by the
sanctum housing the idol of Lord Kartikeya. The idol is adorned with ornaments
and is believed to be Swayambhu. One of the main attractions of the Kartik
Swami Temple is the 360-degree panoramic view it offers. The best time to visit
the Kartik Swami Temple is during the summer months and the autumn months. The
Kartik Swami Temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees and nature
lovers alike.
Madmaheshwar
Madmaheshwar is a significant pilgrimage site and one of the Panch Kedar temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Situated at an elevation of approximately 10,794 feet above sea level. According to Hindu mythology, after the Kurukshetra epic, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings and forgiveness for their sins. Madmaheshwar is the fourth temple in the Panch Kedar circuit, with Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar being the other four temples. The temple of Madmaheshwar is an ancient stone structure beautifully adorned with intricate carvings. The main deity is a Shiva lingam that is worshipped as Madmaheshwar or Madhyamaheshwar. One of the unique features of Madmaheshwar is the navel-shaped lingam. The area around Madmaheshwar is known for its natural beauty and serene environment, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.
Ukhimath
Ukhimath is a small town located in the Rudraprayag district
of Uttarakhand. It serves as a significant religious and pilgrimage center,
particularly during the winter months when the Kedarnath temple is closed due
to heavy snowfall. Ukhimath is considered the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath and
acts as a temporary residence for the deity during the winter season. The idols
of Lord Kedarnath and Goddess Parvati are brought down from the Kedarnath
temple and kept in Ukhimath’s Omkareshwar Temple until the main temple reopens
in the following summer. The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is dedicated to
Lord Shiva and is an important place of worship. The temple features intricate
stone carvings and architectural elements that reflect the region’s cultural
heritage. During the winter months, the temple becomes a hub of religious
activities. Ukhimath is a significant religious destination that provides a
glimpse into the religious customs and traditions of Uttarakhand.
Nearby Places to Visit in Chopta
There are some nearest places in Chopta, such as Sari
Village, Gopeshwar, Rudraprayag, Rudranath, etc.
Sari Village
Sari Village is a scenic hamlet located in the Rudraprayag
district of Uttarakhand. It serves as the base camp for the popular trek to
Deoriatal. Sari Village is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,100
meters above sea level amidst the breathtaking Garhwal Himalayas. It is about
14 km from Ukhimath and around 220 km from the state capital, Dehradun. Sari
Village is the starting point for the trek to Deoriatal. The trek is relatively
easy and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the lake. Sari Village provides
an opportunity to experience the local culture. It is known for its peaceful
environment, pristine natural beauty, and the tranquillity it offers to
visitors seeking to break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Gopeshwar
Gopeshwar is a town located in the Chamoli district of
Uttarakhand. It is situated at an elevation of around 4,760 feet above sea
level. Gopeshwar serves as the administrative headquarters of the Chamoli
district and is known for its religious and cultural significance. The town is
named after Lord Krishna, who is also known as Gopeshwar, meaning “Lord of the
Gopis” or “Lord of the cowherds”. The Gopinath Temple is an ancient temple
located in Gopeshwar. It is believed to have been built by the revered Hindu
philosopher and saint Adi Shankaracharya. The main market area of Gopeshwar offers
a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle of the region. The town is also
known for its annual fair called “Gopinath Temple Mela”, which attracts a large
number of devotees and tourists. Overall, Gopeshwar is a serene and picturesque
town nestled in the Himalayas, offering a peaceful retreat.
Rudraprayag
Rudraprayag is a town located in the Rudraprayag district of
the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at the confluence of the
Alaknanda and Mandakini Rivers, which are two tributaries of the Ganges River.
The town is situated at an elevation of about 2,986 feet above sea level.
Rudraprayag is named after Lord Shiva, with “Rudra” meaning Shiva and “Prayag”
referring to the confluence of rivers, as it is believed to be the place where
Lord Shiva appeared to bless Narada Muni. The town is of great religious
significance and is part of the Chardham Yatra, which includes four major
pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Rudraprayag serves as an important transit point for pilgrims visiting these
destinations. This district is also rich in biodiversity and is home to various
flora and fauna. The region is known for its diverse bird species, making it a
paradise for birdwatchers. Overall, Rudraprayag is a place of religious
significance, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. It attracts a significant
number of pilgrims.
Rudranath
Rudranath is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located in the
Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is one of the Panch Kedar temples dedicated
to Lord Shiva and is situated at an elevation of about 11,800 feet above sea
level. Rudranath Temple is the place where Lord Shiva’s face is worshipped.
According to Hindu mythology, after the Kurukshetra war in the Mahabharata, the
Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings to absolve themselves of the sin of
killing their relatives. The temple was built around the natural rock formation
that represents Lord Shiva’s face. The area around the temple is also dotted
with several kinds that are considered holy and are believed to possess
medicinal properties. Rudranath is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit,
which includes four other temples dedicated to Lord Shiva: Kedarnath,
Madmaheshwar, Tungnath, and Kalpeshwar. Pilgrims often visit all five temples
as a part of their spiritual journey in Uttarakhand. Overall, Rudranath is a
significant pilgrimage site that offers a blend of natural beauty,
spirituality, and adventure.
Best Time to Visit in Chopta
The best time to visit Chopta is during April to June and
September to November.
In Summer
The summer season, from April to June, is the peak tourist
season in Chopta. The weather during these months is mild and pleasant. It is a
great time for trekking, camping, and enjoying the beautiful meadows.
In Autumn
Autumn season, from September to November, is another ideal
time to visit Chopta. The skies are clear, offering excellent visibility of the
snow-capped peaks.
How to Reach Chopta
By Road
The road distance between Delhi and Chopta is 400 km and
takes around 10 to 11 hrs via NH58. You can travel to Chopta by road.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh railway station.
You can reach Rishikesh from New Delhi station by Yoga Express or Kalinga Utkal
Express. Then you can take a car or taxi and reach Chopta. The road distance
between Rishikesh and Chopta is 161 km and takes around 5 to 6 hrs.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport. You can reach
Jolly Grant Airport from Delhi International Airport by Indigo. Then you can
hire a car or taxi and reach Chopta. The distance between Jolly Grant airport and
Chopta is 175 km and takes around 6 to 7 hrs.
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