Dewariya Taal, Chopta, and Tungnath Trip – A Short Himalayan Escape
When one thinks of a Himalayan getaway in Uttarakhand, popular names like Auli, Nainital, and Mussoorie often dominate the list. But tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas lies a short yet immensely rewarding trip that combines alpine meadows, ancient temples, serene lakes, and panoramic mountain views – the Dewariya Taal, Chopta, and Tungnath trip.
This 3-night/4-day journey offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure without demanding the endurance of long Himalayan treks. From the calm waters of Dewariya Taal, reflecting Chaukhamba peak, to the enchanting forests of Chopta, and finally the ancient stone steps leading to Tungnath – the highest Shiva temple in the world (3,680 m), every day is packed with experiences that will stay with you forever.
Unlike the crowded tourist towns, Chopta remains relatively untouched, giving travelers a chance to breathe in crisp mountain air, walk on forest trails, and sleep under star-studded skies. Whether you are a family, a group of friends, or a solo explorer, this trip brings you close to the essence of the Garhwal Himalayas.
If Nainital is about lakeside leisure and Auli about skiing, then Dewariya Taal–Chopta–Tungnath is about quiet meadows, divine energy, and Himalayan grandeur. It’s an experience tailor-made for those who wish to embrace the mountains in their purest form within a short time frame.
Highlights of the Dewariya Taal–Chopta–Tungnath Trip
Dewariya Taal (2,438 m): A calm alpine lake surrounded by forests, famous for reflections of Chaukhamba peaks on a clear morning.
Chopta (2,680 m): Known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”, offering lush meadows and pine forests with views of Kedarnath, Trishul, and Nanda Devi peaks.
Tungnath Temple (3,680 m): The world’s highest Shiva temple, believed to be over 1,000 years old and part of the Panch Kedar circuit.
Chandrashila Summit (4,000 m): A short extension from Tungnath that rewards you with 360-degree views of Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba.
Dense Forest Walks: Trails through oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests alive with birds, especially during spring.
Alpine Flora & Meadows: Rolling bugyals (meadows) carpeted with flowers during April–June and snow-clad beauty in winter.
Spiritual Energy: Blend of Himalayan adventure with the divine aura of Lord Shiva’s abode.
Perfect Weekend Escape: Short itinerary (3N/4D) suitable for working professionals and beginners.
Detailed Itinerary (3 Nights / 4 Days)
Day 1: Arrival at Haridwar/Rishikesh – Drive to Sari Village – Trek to Dewariya Taal (6–7 hrs drive + 2 km trek) Altitude: Haridwar (310 m) → Sari (2,000 m) → Dewariya Taal (2,438 m)
Stay: Campsite near Dewariya Taal
Your Himalayan adventure begins with an early morning pickup from Haridwar or Rishikesh Railway Station. From here, embark on a scenic drive that follows the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, passing through towns like Rudraprayag and Ukhimath. The drive itself is a treat, with gushing rivers, hanging bridges, and glimpses of snowy peaks in the distance.
By afternoon, reach Sari village, the starting point of your trek. A short 2 km trek (45–60 mins) from Sari takes you to the enchanting Dewariya Taal, a pristine high-altitude lake surrounded by dense forests. On a clear evening, you might witness the reflection of Chaukhamba peak in its emerald-green waters – a sight straight out of a postcard.
Settle into your lakeside campsite, enjoy a warm meal, and spend the evening soaking in the peaceful ambiance under a canopy of stars.
Day 2: Dewariya Taal – Drive to Chopta – Forest Exploration Altitude: Chopta (2,680 m) Stay: Campsite or guesthouse in Chopta
Wake up early to watch the golden sunrise over Chaukhamba and nearby Himalayan ranges mirrored in the lake. After breakfast, trek down to Sari and board your vehicle for a short drive (1.5–2 hrs) to Chopta, popularly known as the Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.
Chopta greets you with vast bugyals (meadows) and thick forests of rhododendron and deodar. After checking into your camp or guesthouse, spend the day exploring nature trails around Chopta. The air is filled with birdsong, and during spring, the rhododendrons paint the forest red and pink.
In the evening, enjoy a campfire and traditional Garhwali meals while gazing at snow-covered peaks glowing in moonlight.
Day 3: Trek from Chopta to Tungnath (3.5 km) and Optional Chandrashila Summit (1.5 km extra) Altitude: Tungnath (3,680 m), Chandrashila (4,000 m)
Stay: Chopta campsite/guesthouse
This is the highlight of your trip! After an early breakfast, start the 3.5 km trek from Chopta to Tungnath Temple. The stone-paved trail is moderately steep but extremely rewarding, offering uninterrupted views of Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Nanda Devi as you climb higher.
After about 2–3 hours, you arrive at Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks, the temple radiates peace and spiritual energy. Spend time here in devotion or simply in awe of the history and setting.
Adventurous trekkers can continue further for an additional 1.5 km climb to Chandrashila Peak. From here, the 360-degree Himalayan panorama is unmatched – on a clear day, you can spot Nanda Devi, Kedarnath Dome, Chaukhamba, Bandarpoonch, and countless peaks stretching across Garhwal and Kumaon.
Descend back to Chopta by evening, where a cozy dinner and well-earned rest await.
Day 4: Chopta – Drive to Rishikesh/Haridwar (6–7 hrs)
After breakfast, bid farewell to the meadows and forests of Chopta. Begin your return drive via Ukhimath and Rudraprayag, following the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers once again. By evening, reach Haridwar or Rishikesh, marking the end of your short but memorable Himalayan escape.
Depart with memories of peaceful lakes, divine temples, and breathtaking mountain views – the perfect blend of nature and spirituality.
Why Choose Dewariya Taal–Chopta–Tungnath Trip?
Unlike long Himalayan treks that require weeks, this trip is short, easy to manage, and equally rewarding. Here’s why it stands out:
Compact Duration: Just 3 nights/4 days – perfect for long weekends.
Beginner-Friendly: Ideal for first-time trekkers and families (easy to moderate difficulty).
Cultural & Spiritual Blend: Combines natural beauty with one of the most sacred Shiva temples.
Immense Rewards: Grand Himalayan views, peaceful meadows, and starlit camping.
All-Season Destination: Meadows in summer, snow trails in winter, rhododendrons in spring, and clear skies in autumn.
Essential Trip Information
Maximum Altitude: 4,000 m (Chandrashila Summit)
Trip Grade: Easy to Moderate (suitable for beginners with average fitness)
Best Season: April–June: Rhododendrons in bloom, pleasant weather.
September–November: Clear skies, crisp mountain views.
December–March: Snow-covered trails for a winter wonderland experience.
Nearest Railhead: Haridwar/Rishikesh (connected to major Indian cities).
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 200 km).
