Geographic Setting and Route Overview
The trek is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal region of the Indian Himalayas. It typically begins from Sari Village, a small settlement connected by road from Ukhimath. The journey unfolds across multiple ecological zones, gradually gaining altitude before culminating at the Chandrashila summit.
The total trekking distance ranges between 30 and 35 kilometers, depending on the itinerary. Altitudes vary from approximately 2,000 meters at Sari Village to around 4,000 meters at the Chandrashila summit. The gradual ascent makes it suitable for individuals with moderate fitness levels.
Deoria Tal: The Reflective Alpine Lake
The first major highlight of the trek is Deoria Tal, situated at an altitude of about 2,438 meters. The trail from Sari Village to the lake is around 3 kilometers and typically takes one to two hours to complete. The path winds through forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, offering glimpses of distant snow-covered peaks.
Deoria Tal is renowned for its mirror-like reflections of the Chaukhamba massif on clear mornings. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and provides an ideal campsite for acclimatization. The serene environment and uninterrupted mountain views make it a photographer’s favorite and a peaceful retreat before the more demanding sections of the trek.
Meadows and Forest Trails Toward Chopta
From Deoria Tal, trekkers proceed toward Chopta, often crossing Rohini Bugyal and other high-altitude meadows. Bugyals are alpine grasslands characteristic of Uttarakhand’s mountainous terrain. During spring and early summer, these meadows bloom with wildflowers, click here while autumn presents crisp skies and golden landscapes.
The trail alternates between forested sections and open expanses, offering consistent views of Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedarnath, and Bandarpunch on clear days. Chopta, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” serves as a base point for the ascent to Tungnath and Chandrashila.
Tungnath: The Highest Shiva Temple
One of the most culturally significant landmarks on this trek is Tungnath Temple, located at an elevation of approximately 3,680 meters. Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world and is part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit. The temple is believed to be over a thousand years old and holds deep spiritual importance for devotees.
The 3.5-kilometer stone-paved trail from Chopta to Tungnath is well defined but steadily ascending. The route offers dramatic views of surrounding peaks and valleys, making the climb spiritually and visually rewarding.
Chandrashila Summit: The Panoramic Finale
Above Tungnath lies the Chandrashila summit, approximately 1 kilometer further uphill. Though short in distance, this final ascent is steep and can be challenging, particularly in snowy conditions. At an elevation of around 4,000 meters, Chandrashila offers one of the most comprehensive panoramic views in the Garhwal Himalayas.
From the summit, trekkers can witness a sweeping 360-degree view of prominent Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Trishul, and more. The sunrise from Chandrashila is particularly striking, with golden light illuminating the snow-covered mountains.
Best Time to Visit
The Deoria Tal–Chandrashila trek is accessible for most of the year, except during peak monsoon months when heavy rainfall can make trails slippery. The ideal trekking seasons are April to June and September to November.
Spring and early summer bring blooming rhododendrons and moderate temperatures. Autumn offers clear skies and exceptional visibility of distant peaks. Winter treks are also possible, with snow transforming the landscape into a white alpine expanse, though additional preparation and treks in uttarakhand experience are required.
Accessibility and Travel Information
The nearest major city is Rishikesh, which is well connected by rail and road. From Rishikesh, travelers can reach Sari Village or Chopta via Ukhimath by road. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
Basic accommodations, guesthouses, and campsites are available along the route. Many trekkers choose guided tours for logistical convenience, especially during winter conditions.
Physical Preparation and Safety
Although categorized as an easy-to-moderate trek, participants should maintain basic physical fitness. Cardiovascular endurance and leg strength are important due to sustained ascents. Weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly, so proper layering, hydration, and acclimatization are essential.
Conclusion
The Deoria Tal–Chandrashila trek encapsulates the essence of Himalayan trekking: serene lakes, alpine meadows, sacred temples, and breathtaking summit views. Its accessibility, combined with diverse landscapes and cultural depth, makes it one of Uttarakhand’s most rewarding trekking experiences. Whether seeking adventure, spirituality, or scenic beauty, this trek delivers a comprehensive and memorable Himalayan journey.
