Chopta Chandrashila Trek: A Mini Switzerland in Uttarakhand

Some treks make you work hard before giving you a reward. But the Chopta Chandrashila trek is different it gives you beauty from the very first step. Often called the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand,” Chopta is a place where rolling green meadows, snow-covered peaks, and peaceful trails all come together in one short but stunning trek.

The Road to Chopta

Getting to Chopta is part of the adventure. Most travelers start from Rishikesh or Haridwar. The drive is long about 7–8 hours but never boring. The roads twist and turn through the Garhwal Himalayas, with the Ganga and Alaknanda rivers following you for miles.

Small dhabas along the way serve hot parathas, pakoras, and endless cups of chai. I still remember stopping at a roadside stall where the owner insisted, “Have some extra butter, it will give you energy for the mountains.” He wasn’t wrong. By the time I reached Chopta, the air felt lighter, colder, and cleaner.

Life in Chopta – The Base Camp

Chopta itself looks like a meadow out of a picture book. Wooden huts, grazing sheep, and tall deodar trees surround you. The evenings are especially beautiful the sky turns orange and pink before fading into a blanket of stars.

Staying here feels simple. Guesthouses and campsites provide basic food like dal, roti, and rice. And somehow, eating a simple meal in that cold mountain air makes it taste much better than anything fancy.

The Trek Begins

The trek starts from Chopta and takes you through a forest trail. It’s only about 5 km to the summit of Chandrashila, but every step feels like a journey through different landscapes.

First, you walk under tall oak and rhododendron trees. If you visit in spring (March–April), the rhododendrons are in full bloom, painting the trail red and pink. Birds like Himalayan monals and woodpeckers can often be spotted here if you keep your eyes open.

The first major stop is Tungnath, which is about 3.5 km from Chopta.

Tungnath – The Highest Shiva Temple

Tungnath is no ordinary temple. At over 12,000 feet, it is the highest Shiva temple in the world. The stone structure is small and simple, but the energy there feels powerful. Pilgrims and trekkers sit together outside, sipping tea, soaking in the view, and catching their breath before the final climb.

I remember the silence there being broken only by the sound of temple bells and the wind rushing past. Even if you’re not religious, Tungnath leaves a mark on you.

The Final Push to Chandrashila

From Tungnath, the trail steepens for the last 1.5 km. This is where the climb gets tougher, but the views start opening up with every step. When I finally reached the Chandrashila summit, I just stood still for a few minutes, trying to take it all in.

From the top, you get a 360-degree view of some of the greatest Himalayan peaks Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, and Chaukhamba. Snow glittered on their slopes like silver in the sunlight. It’s the kind of view that makes you forget about sore legs and heavy breathing.

And if you happen to go in winter (December–February), the entire trail is covered in snow, making Chopta truly live up to its “Mini Switzerland” title.

Why This Trek Feels Special

Unlike many Himalayan treks, Chandrashila is short and not too difficult. Beginners can manage it with some preparation, and even families with kids often take it up. But short doesn’t mean less rewarding. In just two days, you walk through forests, meadows, a sacred temple, and finally reach a peak with one of the best Himalayan panoramas.

The simplicity of the trek is what makes it memorable. You don’t need weeks of planning, expensive gear, or high fitness levels. All you need is a good pair of shoes, warm clothes, and the willingness to keep walking.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–April): Best for rhododendron blooms.

• Summer (May–June): Clear skies and cool weather.

• Autumn (September–November): Crisp air and wide views of snow peaks.

• Winter (December–February): Snow everywhere; the trail looks magical but needs extra care.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for tourist places in Uttarakhand that combine ease, beauty, and adventure, the Chopta Chandrashila trek should be high on your list. It’s one of those Uttarakhand tourist destinations that doesn’t demand too much but gives back a lot peace, views, and a memory you’ll keep revisiting long after you’re back.

Many places in Uttarakhand are famous for trekking, but this one feels special because it’s doable and stunning at the same time. For anyone who wants to experience the Himalayas without getting into long expeditions, this is the perfect trek.

Chopta may be called “Mini Switzerland,” but once you stand on the Chandrashila summit, you’ll realize it has its own identity simple, breathtaking, and unforgettable.

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