Forget Rishikesh and Mussoorie. Chopta is Uttarakhand's best-kept secret — a meadow at 2,680 metres ringed by rhododendron forests and overlooked by the Tungnath temple, the highest Shiva shrine in the world. The views rival anything in the Swiss Alps and the crowds are a fraction of any other hill station in the region.
Tungnath and the trek above
The 3.5km trek from Chopta to Tungnath temple (3,680m) is gentle enough for first-timers but rewarding enough for experienced trekkers. From Tungnath, continue 1.5km further to Chandrashila summit (4,130m) for a 360-degree panorama that includes Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, and on clear days, the distant white of the Karakoram.
When to visit
April–June: Rhododendrons in full bloom, crisp air, trail open. September–November: Clear skies, golden meadows, ideal photography. December–February: Deep snow, the trail may require crampons, but Tungnath temple is closed — the idol is moved to Ukhimath for the winter. Monsoon (July–August) brings leeches and closed trails — avoid.
Getting there without a tour operator
Take a Rishikesh–Rudraprayag bus (₹200, 5hrs), then a shared jeep to Ukhimath (₹80, 1.5hrs), then another shared jeep to Chopta (₹60, 45 mins). Total cost: ₹340. You'll be dropped right at the start of the Tungnath trail. A private taxi from Rishikesh costs ₹2,800–₹3,500 but saves 3 hours.
The views from Chandrashila rival anything in the Swiss Alps. You'll be looking at four of India's greatest peaks with barely another soul in sight.
— Kabir Thakur
From the Journey
Watch the Journey
✦ Key Tips Before You Go
Start the Tungnath trek by 6am to beat clouds
Camping in the Chopta meadow is allowed and magical
Carry your own food — only 2–3 dhabas operate on the trail
The road beyond Ukhimath can be rough — sit near the front of shared jeeps
Chopta to Deoria Tal is a beautiful extension if you have an extra day
WRITTEN BY
Kabir Thakur
Kabir has spent over a decade guiding treks in the Indian Himalayas and believes Chopta is the most underrated trek in the country.