Last Updated: January 10, 2020 Nidhi Singh
Where some places are ideal for a fabulous holiday, few are well, just places that you can never forget for a lifetime, and I guess, Chopta is one such destination. Tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas, Chopta is like a slice of the paradise; lush green, with lofty mountain chains, velvety meadows, and awe-inspiring views. It is definitely one of those places that you readily give your heart to. A trekking and camping destination, and an abode of a sacred shrine, Chopta is not just another place that you pick for a vacation, it is so much more. Here are some convincing reasons why you should visit this one-of-its-kind place.
Here Stands the Highest Shiva Temple in the World
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Though it doesn’t strike you at first when you are huffing your way up on a semi-paved path to the Tungnath Temple, but once you resume your normal breathing, and notice the grandeur of this shrine, you realize that you are at highest Shiva temple in the world! (And good lord, I have constructed the longest sentence of my life!). Tungnath Temple, standing at an altitude of 3680 m is a marvel in itself, inarguably its beauty and ambience can hardly be compared. About 1000 years old, Tungnath is considered where the hands of Lord Shiva in the form of the bull fell. The temple marks as an important attraction of Chopta Valley, and cannot be ignored while you trek to Chandrashila.
My suggestion is to Relax by it; give your legs some rest; contemplate for sometime; and then with some renewed energy and the blessings of Lord Shiva, head for Chandrashila, the place that will leave you stunned.
There is No Bad Time to Visit
Uttarakhand’s infamous flash floods of June 2013 have made tourists skeptical about planning a visit to its hills in the monsoon season. But hey! Things are getting better; the roads have been restored and safety measures are being taken. Besides, Chopta Valley looks spectacular, no matter which season of the year it is. Where summer comes packed with warm sun, and pleasant nights here, monsoon, on the other hand, enhances greenery; and winter, well, it just magically turns Chopta into a fairytale land. So, if you are planning a trek here, just follow your heart (Don’t ignore the news and weather forecast though), and everything will turn out great!
Here the Mother Nature Awaits to Embrace You
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There is no denying that Chopta is ridiculously picturesque. Once you are out here, chances are you might want to buy a small villa and make it your hideaway destination for future. The rolling Garhwal Himalayas, the velvety meadows, and the soothing air, beckon that Mother Nature is awaiting to embrace, caress and create a stronger bond with you at Chopta.
Camping on the Lush Meadows Cannot Get Any Better
If it isn’t the monsoon season (because then the leeches will host on you), you must try walking on the meadows at Chopta bare feet; the feel of velvety grass is going to simply change your experience here. Also, instead of choosing a concrete accommodation, try going camping on the vast expanse of meadow here that is surrounded by arresting views of green rolling mountains. At night, enjoy a picturesque starry sky and experience a heart melting bonfire. You can even cook your own meals at these camps, and trust me it is one of the best things to do in here.
Greater Himalayas Always Smile Back at You
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As your pumped up feet touch the peak of Chandrashila (4090 m), your eyes, a little blurr though, cannot ignore the surreal scene of being encapsulated by the mighty Greater Himalayas. Trishul, Nandadevi, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch and Chaukhamba, look elated that you could make it to the top to witness the exquisite and unparalleled 360 Degree view. The snow-capped and sometimes completely covered Greater Himalaya truly make one forget the trekking hardships, in the end, the view is what you remember, the view is all that you care about.
It is the Best Reward for Amateur Trekkers
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Although Chopta is considered the base for several treks, the two major treks here remain, Tungnath-Chandrashila and Deoria Tal. Both the trails are perfect for amateurs as the difficulty levels and distance are quite less, with Chopta-Chandrashila Trek being 5 kms, and Deoria Tal Trek being, only 3-4 kms long. Therefore, amateurs/novice trekkers without getting dog tired can relish a memorable trek that is full of thrill, experiences, and of course nature’s abundance.
So, which reason would you choose to plan a visit to this unsurpassed destination in Uttarakhand? Do let us know your answer in the comments below. Also, if you liked this blog, don’t be lazy to give it a THUMBS UP. And if at all, you need our help to plan your holiday in Chopta, give us a call at +91-9212777224 or drop your query at info@tourmyindia.com. We at Tour My India, would love to be your travel partner to this amazing place, and with our best Uttarakhand travel packages will ensure, you have the best time of your life.
Published: 13 Jul, 2017
From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.