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Chopta Camping & Tungnath in Uttarakhand

Chopta Camping & Tungnath

Easy ⏱ 3 Days ★ 4.7 (1,240) 📍 Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

About

Chopta is a string of high meadows in Uttarakhand often called the "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand", and it's one of the most relaxed Himalayan getaways in the country. The trip pairs easy camping in the rhododendron-fringed meadows with the short trek up to Tungnath — at 3,680 m, the highest Shiva temple in the world — and onward to the Chandrashila summit for a full Himalayan panorama.

What makes it special:

  • Camping in open alpine meadows with Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi and Trishul on the skyline
  • The trek to Tungnath, the world's highest Shiva temple, and the Chandrashila viewpoint just above it
  • A genuinely beginner- and family-friendly mountain trip — glamping-style comfort with a gentle, rewarding climb

It blends a bit of spirituality, big mountain views and low-effort adventure, which is why it's such a popular first taste of the Himalaya.

Getting There

Chopta sits in Rudraprayag district. Most trips start from Rishikesh, about 200 km away — a scenic but winding 7–8 hour drive through the hills; Haridwar (~220 km) is the other common start point. The nearest railheads are Rishikesh and Haridwar, and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant (Dehradun).

Most operators include pickup and drop from Rishikesh. From the Chopta meadows it's a 4 km, 2–3 hour climb to Tungnath temple, and another ~1.5 km up to Chandrashila. The roads are landslide-prone in the monsoon and can be blocked by heavy snow in January–February, so confirm conditions before locking in dates. Go April–June for green meadows, September–November for clear skies, or mid-winter for snow.

FAQs

When's the best time to camp here? +
April–June for green meadows and wildflowers, September–November for clear skies and golden light, December–March for snow and serious cold. Skip July–August (heavy monsoon, leeches, fogged-in views).
How easy is Tungnath summit from camp? +
Manageable. The trek from Chopta to Tungnath temple (the highest Shiva temple in the world at 12,073 ft) is 4km one-way, 2–3 hours of moderate climb. Most camping packages include this. Continue another 1.5km uphill to Chandrashila viewpoint for the panoramic Himalayan view.
Is this suitable for families? +
Yes — one of our most family-friendly options. The camping itself is glamping-style (proper beds, hot food, attached bathrooms in upgraded packages). Kids 8+ can do the Tungnath climb. The Chaukhamba range view is the highlight even from camp.
How cold does it get? +
0–10°C in April–October nights. -5 to -10°C in December–March. Down jacket recommended year-round at night. Days are pleasant 10–20°C in non-winter months.
How do I get to Chopta? +
Drive from Rishikesh (200km, 7–8 hours through hill roads) or Haridwar (220km). Most operators include pickup-drop from Rishikesh. Roads can close in monsoon (landslide-prone) and heavy snow (January–February) — confirm conditions before final booking.