Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, the Tungnath Trek is a beautiful journey that takes you through some of the most scenic vistas in India. The trek is situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand and is a part of the Char Dham Yatra. It is one of the most popular treks in the region, and is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush green meadows, and serene lakes.
The trek starts from Chopta, which is a small village situated at an altitude of 2,680 meters above sea level. Chopta is often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India” because of its striking resemblance to the Swiss Alps. The village is surrounded by dense forests of deodar and rhododendron trees, and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Watch the Tungnath Trek Cinematic Travel Video
The Tungnath Trek is a moderate trek that can be completed by beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The trek covers a distance of around 5 kilometers and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. The trek starts from Chopta and takes you through lush green meadows, dense forests, and rocky terrain.
As you start the trek, you will be greeted by the picturesque views of the Himalayas. The trail is well marked and passes through several small streams and waterfalls. The trek is known for its stunning views of the Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks, which can be seen from different points along the trail.
The highlight of the Tungnath Trek is the Tungnath Temple, which is situated at an altitude of 3,680 meters above sea level. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the highest temples in the world. The trek to the temple is a steep climb, but the views from the top are absolutely stunning.
After visiting the Tungnath Temple, you can continue the trek to Chandrashila Peak, which is situated at an altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level. The peak is famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayas and is a must-visit for anyone trekking in the region.
The best time to visit the Tungnath Trek is from April to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the views are spectacular. The trek is closed during the winter months because of heavy snowfall.
Reaching Tungnath Temple is relatively easy and can be done in an economical way by following these steps:
1. Reach Rishikesh/Haridwar: The nearest railway station to Chopta is Haridwar, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Haridwar, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Chopta.
2. Reach Chopta: Chopta is a small village situated at an altitude of 2,680 meters above sea level. It is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand, such as Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from these cities to reach Chopta.
3. Trek to Tungnath Temple: The Tungnath Trek starts from Chopta and takes around 3-4 hours to reach the Tungnath Temple. The trek is a moderate trek and can be done by beginners as well as experienced trekkers. You can hire a guide in Chopta who can accompany you on the trek and provide you with information about the trek.
4. Accommodation: Chopta has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. You can choose an accommodation option that fits your budget and requirements.
5. Food: Chopta has several restaurants and dhabas that serve a variety of local and North Indian dishes. You can also carry your own food and water for the trek.
In conclusion, the Tungnath Trek is a beautiful journey that takes you through some of the most scenic vistas in India. The trek is suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers and is a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and adventure. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to the “Mini Switzerland of India”.
