Table of Contents
Introduction
Trekking during the winter season to the Himalayas in the middle of snow-capped mountains can be one of the most wonderful experiences. Among all other treks, Chopta Valley is considered one of the most outstanding. Tucked away in the stunning Kedarnath Valley of Uttarakhand, this is one of the best treks to engage in during this winter season. Breathtaking views of the surroundings will captivate the hearts and minds of all trekkers. Trying to catch a glimpse of nearby peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Trishul Peaks would make the trek even more thrilling.
Best time to visit Chopta Valley
Of course, winter is one of the best seasons to visit Chopta Valley in Uttarakhand, especially if you have always dreamed of a snow trek. However, the trek is also open during the summer season. If you want to visit other places and also get an amazing view of the lush green valley, the months of March to May are ideal. Otherwise, October to February can also be the best time to go here if you want to be covered in snow, and trekking in the snowy mountains can be great.
In summer: The weather in Chopta remains healthy during the summer. The Himalayas are visible and a cool breeze is felt in the early morning and late evening.
In Monsoon: Chopta becomes greener during monsoon season. Although trekking becomes challenging and there are chances of roads getting blocked for several hours due to landslides, the scenic beauty of Chopta during monsoons is worth the risk. Raincoats are recommended.
In Winter: The region is covered with snow in the winter season and accommodation options are also limited to a few people. But Chopta looks its best during winters and the trek becomes more difficult. It is recommended to wear heavy woolen clothes
The average budget for a trip to the Chopta Valley
The total cost of the Chopta trek can be anywhere from 15-20k. If you are a resident of Delhi then the cost can be reduced further as one does not have to fly. If you are traveling from other places, the trek cost would be slightly higher due to air charges. There are also certain essentials that one needs to buy for the trek, which can probably cost a little extra. There are also packages that one can also choose from and that would cover everything within the trek.
If you are planning an individual trek to Chopta, you can also try to do it on a limited budget. If it is a group trip, the cost can be further reduced. However, it is recommended to have at least 15k-20K for the Chopta trek.
Chopta Chandrashila Trek (Detailed Itinerary)
Day 01
Delhi – Haridwar – Ukhimath (225 km/7 hrs
Ukhimath (1370 m / 4500 ft) is a relatively short steep walk on the other side of the Mandakini river valley from Guptkashi. Ukhimath is the winter residence of Kedarnath, as well as the winter home of the priest, which is meant for worship. After the Kedarnath Temple closes for the winter, the moving image of Kedarnath is brought in a procession to Ukhimath where it resides until the Kedarnath Temple reopens in late April or early May.
Day 02
Ukhimath – Deoria Tal (2438 m / 7998 ft)
In the morning, you can see the snow-capped Himalayan ridges. After breakfast starts your trek to Deoria Tal through dense Rhododendron forest along with wildflowers and ferns. The trip will take 3-4 hours. After reaching Deoria Tal they pitched their tents for the night.
Day 03
Deoria Tal – Chopta
In the morning, trek to Chopt through dense forest and meadows. It is a 12 km trek. After arriving in Chopto, set up your tents for the night. In the evening, explore the spectacular view of the Himalayas.
Day 04
Chopta to Tungnath (3680 ft / 12070 ft) to Chandrashila (4090 mts / 13415 ft) to Chopta
After early breakfast trek to Tungnath with packed lunch. Tungnath is located at a height of 3680 m above sea level. The trek is 3 km higher and along the way, you will find lush green meadows. You can witness a wide range of snow-clad Himalayas.
Day 05
Chopta – Haridwar – Delhi
After an early breakfast drive to Haridwar and from there board the train to Delhi at 6:05 PM. Arrival in Delhi at 22:45 hrs.
How to get to the Chopta Valley
By road
Traveling to chop(Uttarakhand) by road from Delhi is the best option. You can reach Delhi by bus, train, or air as Delhi is well connected in all three ways. From Delhi, one has to take a bus to Rishikesh or Haridwar to reach Rudraprayag or Ukhimath. From there, the only way to travel is by taxi. Taxis are available in abundance from both these locations.
By train
The nearest railway station to Chopta Valley in Uttarakhand is about 225 km away at Haridwar. Trains to Haridwar are available from all other major cities in India. Once the train reaches Haridwar, the best option is to take a taxi from Rishikesh.
By air
A flight to Dehradun can also be one of the best options. From there it is possible to use taxis or buses. The airport is called Jolly Grant Airport and is located about 226 km from Chopta village.
