Chopta is a charming hill station, distinct from many other popular hill stations. The lush green meadows and evergreen forests of Chopta transport you to another corner of the world, where a place called Switzerland resides. That’s why Chopta is aptly called the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”, a heaven nourished by the Himalayas and refreshing breeze.
All travelers necessarily pass through Chopta who bound for Tungnath Temple or the further trek to Chandrashila Peak. Chopta serves as the base camp for Tungnath Temple for Shiva’s Devotees. However, Chopta is more than just a base camp; beyond just trekking to Tungnath and Chandrashila. Many visitors come to Chopta Valley to spend some quality time here with their loved ones or maybe solo.
Chopta is tucked away in the mountains of Uttarakhand, and if we put it simply, Chopta’s height above sea level is approximately 2,610 meters. The Chopta Hill Station is a part of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand and falls within the Rudraprayag district of the state.
Chopta in winter is a fabulous period for snow lovers and winter wanderers. Snow lovers will inevitably fall in love with this place, as it becomes enchantingly mesmerizing and so captivating that you will never want to leave the place. Chopta’s weather undergoes a dramatic transformation with the arrival of December, as snowfalls envelop the surroundings, blanketing the landscape in a pristine white layer. Believe me, this Himalayan heaven transforms into a dreamland. The Chopta temperature in December drops to extreme lows here, reaching as low as -6 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature hovers around 8 degrees Celsius.
Summers are ideal for trekkers, as the period offers comfortable temperatures and clear trails, and it’s a fact that all of you will agree, that trekking seems amazing in pleasant weather with lush green landscapes. Many people across the country want to escape the intense heatwaves, so they find respite in Chopta, as it gives them relief from the sweltering temperatures. Since most schools have their longest breaks during summer, it’s an ideal time for a family trip.
Plan your visit between April to July and Oct to March, but keep in mind that the monsoon season also falls during this period. There might be a possibility that rainfall may cause road closures or diversions, so please check updates before heading out.
Winter trekking becomes somewhat challenging due to 1-2 feet of snow, but some adventurous individuals still visit for a unique experience on this route; the entire route is navigable with no obstacles, one can visit here for trekking during the summer season. If trekking is part of your plan, consider adding 4-5 days extra days or visit specifically for trekking.
Don’t get confused between Chopta Village & Chopta Hill Station. Most people are unaware that Chopta Village and Chopta Hill Station are two distinct places, despite sharing two commonalities- their name and district, as both are located in Rudraprayag District. These two spots are situated about 80 kilometers away from each other. If coming from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Delhi or any other place Chopta village is the nearest, that’s why if you search Chopta in Google Map, by default it shows Chopta Village. Even sometime if you type Chopta hill station it shows you route to Chopta Village.
How can fix this? Always enter location Chopta Tungnath together or search Chopta Hill station.
We’re discussing Chopta Hill Station here, but if you are interested, you can also take a 3-4 hour drive to visit Chopta Village. As we all know, Villages are always captivating, especially those in the hills.
The world’s highest Shiva temple, Tungnath Mandir, is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, perched at an altitude of 12,000 feet. Many travelers either plan the Chopta-Tungnath Trek or opt for the comprehensive Panch Kedar Tour Package to visit all five temples.
The journey from Tungnath Temple to Chandrashila Peak is breathtakingly spectacular. From Tungnath, you will witness a stunning 360-degree view of peaks and valleys. Continuing your ascent, a short trek further will lead you to the summit of Chandrashila Peak, offering an unforgettable experience. Chandrashila Peak stands at an elevation of 3,690 meters (12,110 feet), offering a glimpse of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Kedar Peak, Trishul, Bandarpunch, and Chaukhamba Peaks.
Accessing this lake requires a trek of a few kilometers starting from Sari Village. The Deoria Tal is situated in the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary, reaching heights of 7,998 meters. The trek has a moderately steep incline, where you will walk along winding paths surrounded by Rhododendron, Oak, and Alpine trees.
Some people just love to explore wildlife, if you are in Chopta, check out this awesome wildlife sanctuary for some Himalayan Wildlife Spotting. It’s just 7 km from the main Chopta, such places surrounded by mountains, encircled by dense forests and enveloped by greenery all over, which actually takes away all your tiredness & worries. As you stand amidst the Alpine forests, the vibrant flowers will bloom around you, elevating the beauty and charm of the area.
Yoga & Meditation
Rock Climbing & Rappelling
Birdwatching
Trekking
Chopta is gradually gaining popularity among hill station enthusiasts and nature lovers, resulting in an increasing availability of quality accommodation options, ranging from hotels and resorts to government guest houses. When it comes to places to stay in Chopta, you will find limited options for stay. This place falls under the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, which is why you will find limited options. But you will be pleased to know that all accommodations offer budget-friendly rates without compromising on basic facilities and services. Therefore, if you book your hotel on time, you won’t face any issues.
Chopta Hill Station falls within the Rudraprayag district, situated in a relatively remote area. Consequently, travelers must employ various transportation modes to reach here, from air and rail tickets to a private cab. Ultimately, in last after coming by air or train you need to take a cab or private taxi to cover the last leg and reach your desired destination Chopta Uttarakhand.
Many travelers from Delhi can conveniently reach Chopta by first flying to Jolly Grant Airport or taking a train to Rishikesh or Haridwar Railway Station, and then continuing their journey by private cab to Chopta Valley.
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun → Take a flight from Delhi or your nearest airport to Dehradun. If direct flights to Dehradun are not available, you can also via Delhi as IGI Airport, Delhi is directly connected to Jolly Grant Airpot, Dehradun. From Dehradun, one can easily reach Chopta by a smooth road journey. Distance from Chopta- 295 km approx./8-9 hours
Rishikesh Railway Station/Dehradun Railway Station/Haridwar Railway Station → Reach any of these railway stations and after that take a shared cab or hire a taxi to Chopta. However, you can also travel to the nearest bus stand (Ukhimath) via state-run buses, and then take a cab to reach your destination. Rishikesh Distance from Chopta- 260 km approx/7-8 hours
Chopta has excellent road connectivity to surrounding major cities and towns such as Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, Ukhimath, and Rudraprayag. You can make it simple by booking your private taxi from a renowned travel operator. Also, you have another option, plan your journey to Chopta using state-owned buses, private buses, or special tourist buses, and thereafter, easily reach Chopta by hiring a private taxi or cab.
Haridwar →Rishikesh → Devprayag→ Srinagar →Rudraprayg→ Agastyamuni → Ukhimath →Duggalbitta→ Chopta
Alternatively, for those traveling from Kathgodam, take this route to reach Chopta, it is a relatively off-the-beaten-path route, and thus fewer tourists are seen.
Kathgodam→ Ranikhet →Gairsain → Karnaprayag →Rudraprayag → Chopta
The Auli Chopta Tour Package offers a memorable winter adventure ideal for couples and honeymooners. Packages start at Rs. 12,999 for 4 nights, including accommodation, transport, and meals. Contact us to book your dream trip and experience the beauty of the Himalayas
4 nights 5 days
1 person
