Best Places to Visit in Chopta
1. Tungnath Temple
The biggest attraction near Chopta is Tungnath Temple, one of the Panch Kedar temples and one of the highest Shiva temples in the world. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is roughly 3–4 km and follows a clearly defined trail.
Start early if you want to experience the trail in quieter conditions and catch the morning mountain views.
2. Chandrashila Peak
For trekkers, Chandrashila Peak is the highlight of a Chopta trip. From Tungnath, the summit involves another steep 1.5-km climb. At around 3,700–4,000 metres, the top offers sweeping views of Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul and Chaukhamba.
The complete Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila route can take several hours, so comfortable trekking shoes, water and an early start are essential.
3. Deoria Tal
Located near Sari village, Deoria Tal is another popular attraction around Chopta. The lake is surrounded by forest and mountains, with Chaukhamba providing a dramatic backdrop. The Sari-to-Deoria Tal trek is around 3 km and generally takes 1–2 hours.
It is a great addition to your itinerary if you enjoy photography, camping or relatively short hikes.
4. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary
About 7 km from Chopta, this forested sanctuary is known for its musk deer habitat and birdlife. Chopta itself is also an important birdwatching destination, with Uttarakhand Tourism noting more than 240 bird species in the wider area.
Things to Do in Chopta
Trekking is the main activity. The Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila trek is the most popular route, but you can also explore trails around Deoria Tal, Sari and the surrounding forests.
Birdwatching is another rewarding experience, particularly around Chopta, Dugalbitta, Mandal and the Tungnath trail. Keep binoculars handy if you want to spot Himalayan species.
You can also enjoy camping in Chopta, mountain photography, nature walks and cycling on the surrounding mountain roads. The route between Chopta and Ukhimath via Sari is particularly suited to cycling.
Where to Stay in Chopta
Accommodation in Chopta is mostly made up of homestays, guesthouses, camps and small lodges, rather than large hotels. You can also find stays in nearby areas such as Baniyakund, Dugalbitta and Sari.
If you are planning an early start for the Tungnath and Chandrashila trek, staying around Chopta or Baniyakund can save you valuable travel time in the morning. For a quieter mountain experience, a Chopta homestay can be a great choice, especially if you want forest views, local food and a more personal stay.
You can explore and compare local stays through GharOnGo, a homestay discovery platform that connects travellers with local hosts and properties across Uttarakhand. It can be useful when looking for stays that offer a more local experience rather than a standard hotel setup.
Keep in mind that facilities can vary between properties. Mobile connectivity, heating, hot water and food availability may be limited, particularly during colder months. Always check the amenities and accessibility with your host before booking.
Best Time to Visit Chopta
The best time to visit Chopta depends on what you want from the trip. Uttarakhand Tourism lists November to May among the best months, while the landscape changes considerably through the seasons.
For snow in Chopta, winter is the obvious choice, but heavy snowfall can affect road and trekking conditions. Spring brings rhododendron blooms, while summer offers greener landscapes and comfortable trekking conditions.
If trekking to Chandrashila is your priority, always check the latest local weather and trail conditions before setting out.
How to Reach Chopta
For most travellers, Rishikesh is a practical starting point. Uttarakhand Tourism's Chopta-Chandrashila itinerary connects Rishikesh with Sari and Chopta by road, while Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun is the nearest major airport mentioned for the route.
From Delhi, a road journey towards Rishikesh and onward into the Garhwal Himalayas makes Chopta a popular option for a longer weekend or short mountain holiday.
Plan Your Chopta Trip
A good Chopta itinerary does not need to be packed with activities. Give yourself enough time for the Tungnath-Chandrashila trek, add Deoria Tal if your schedule allows, and leave some time simply to enjoy the forests and mountain scenery.
Pack warm layers, trekking shoes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, water and basic medicines. Most importantly, avoid rushing high-altitude treks. The mountains are better enjoyed slowly.