While pilgrims plan for the utterly sacred Char Dham Yatra, there are a plethora of places to discover en route to the pilgrimage, as well as around the sacred shrines. Kedarnath Dham, the abode of Lord Shiva, is a popular destination among the four spiritual getaways of Uttarakhand. Reaching the temple of Kedarnath requires a trek from Gaurikund. After the visit to the highly revered shrine, there are a few places near Gaurikund that are worth exploring. With an additional stay of a couple of days, tourists can easily visit these places. Chopta and Tungnath are enchanting destinations located near the sacred Kedarnath Dham. Known for their serene beauty, lush green meadows, and spiritual significance, these places attract nature lovers, trekking enthusiasts, and devotees alike.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the snow-capped Himalayas, vibrant rhododendron forests, and serene lakes in Chopta and Tungnath, while seeking the divine blessings of Lord Shiva. Chopta, a picturesque village in Uttarakhand, serves as the starting point for two iconic treks: the Chandrashila trek and the Chopta Tungnath trek. For the ease of your holiday, you can book Hotels in Phata, which serves as a central point to both Kedarnath Dham, as well as the tourist spots of Chopta and Tungnath. Tungnath is a significant pilgrimage site and holds the distinction of being the world’s highest Shiva temple. Another must-visit trek in the region is the Deoriatal trek, which leads to a serene natural lake nestled in the dense forests of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
Popular Attractions In and Around Chopta
Tungnath Temple - Tungnath Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds the distinction of being the highest Shiva temple in the world. It carries immense spiritual importance as part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, which includes Kedarnath, Madmaheshwar, Rudranath, and Kalpeshwar. As the highest among these temples, the Tungnath trek is relatively short and moderately easy, covering about 4 km through lush meadows, vibrant greenery, and scenic landscapes. Architecturally, Tungnath Temple reflects the North Indian style and enshrines a stunning idol of Lord Shiva. A winter treks to Tungnath offer a chance to witness the majestic snow-covered landscapes of the Himalayas.
Chandrashila Peak - Literally translated to ‘Moon Rock’, Chandrashila Peak stands at an altitude of 2950 metres and is one of the most popular trekking spots in the region. The main highlight of the Chandrashila Trek is the breathtaking view of the Himalayas. From the summit, visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of prominent peaks such as Bandarpunch, Nanda Devi, Kedar Peak, Chaukhamba, Trishul, and many other unnamed peaks. According to legend, Lord Rama meditated at Chandrashila’s peak after defeating a demon.
Deoria Taal - Deoria Tal is situated along the Ukhimath-Gopeshwar road and can be reached by a short 2 km trek starting from Sari Village. The journey to the lake is an enriching experience, as you pass through the quaint village, capturing glimpses of its daily life through your camera or interacting with the friendly locals. Surrounded by dense pine forests, the lake offers a serene ambiance and beautifully reflects the towering pine trees and the majestic Chaukhamba peaks in its calm waters. Deoria Tal is one of the main highlights of Chopta, attracting numerous visitors, especially during the peak season, for its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere.
Sari Village - Sari Village, a peaceful hamlet in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district, is the starting point for the trek to Deoria Tal, a beautiful high-altitude lake nestled in the Himalayas. The village retains its traditional charm with Garhwali-style homes, terraced fields, and a vibrant local culture. The trek from Sari to Deoria Tal is a memorable experience, showcasing a rich variety of flora and fauna along the trail. With its tranquil atmosphere, Sari Village offers an ideal spot for relaxation and meditation, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solitude.
Rohini Bugyal - Rohini Bugyal is a hidden gem, nestled at an altitude of 3,000 metres. This tranquil meadow is a perfect escape from the chaos of daily life and serves as an ideal camping spot along the trek to Chandrashila Peak via Deoria Tal. Camping in the Garhwal Himalayas offers a mesmerizing experience, surrounded by panoramic views of majestic peaks such as Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, Thaly Sagar, and Kedar Dome. During March and April, the hiking trail transforms into a vibrant path adorned with blooming Rhododendrons, adding splashes of red to the lush greenery. This meadow is a paradise for birdwatchers, attracting a variety of Himalayan and migratory birds.