Tired of crowded hill stations and traffic-filled getaways? Enter Chopta—a quaint, untouched hamlet in Uttarakhand, often dubbed the “Mini Switzerland of India.” Surrounded by thick forests, sprawling meadows, and panoramic Himalayan views, Chopta is ideal for a peaceful retreat or a short trek into the clouds.
📍 Where is Chopta?
Chopta is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, sitting pretty at an altitude of around 2,680 meters (8,790 feet). It’s the base point for the famous Tungnath-Chandrashila trek and offers spellbinding views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
🚗 How to Reach Chopta from Delhi
Total Distance: ~450 km
Travel Time: 10–12 hours (by road)
Option 1: By Car / Road Trip
The most scenic and flexible way to reach Chopta is by car. The route goes:
Delhi → Meerut → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta
Pro tip: Break your journey overnight at Rishikesh or Rudraprayag if needed.
Option 2: By Train + Taxi
- Take a train from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh
- Hire a taxi or shared cab to Chopta from there (approx. 7–9 hrs drive)
Option 3: By Bus
Regular buses from Delhi to Rishikesh/Haridwar, then local/shared taxis towards Ukhimath → Chopta.
🏞️ Things to Do in Chopta
1. Trek to Tungnath & Chandrashila
Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world (3,680 m), just a 3.5 km trek from Chopta. Continue 1.5 km further to Chandrashila Peak for one of the most jaw-dropping Himalayan panoramas you’ll ever witness.
2. Camping Under the Stars
Stay in tents amidst pine forests and wake up to views that postcards envy.
3. Birdwatching & Wildlife
Chopta is a part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep an eye out for Himalayan monals, musk deer, and more.
4. Photography
Whether it’s misty mornings, snowy peaks, or starry skies—every frame in Chopta is a keeper.
🛏️ Where to Stay
Chopta offers cozy campsites, basic lodges, and eco-huts. If you’re looking for more structured accommodations, try nearby Ukhimath or Dugalbitta.
Recommended stays:
- Magpie Camp
- Snow Pod Chopta
- Chopta Meadows Heritage Camps
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
- Summer (April–June): Pleasant weather, green meadows, and clear skies.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow-covered trails and a magical white landscape.
- Monsoon (July–Sept): Lush greenery, but trekking becomes slippery and risky.
🎒 What to Pack
- Warm clothes (even in summer, nights are chilly)
- Good trekking shoes
- Rain gear (weather changes fast)
- Torchlight and power bank
- Basic medicines and ID
- Reusable water bottle (avoid plastic!)
🙏 Final Thoughts
If you’re craving solitude, nature, and soul-touching views—not too far from Delhi—Chopta is your place. It’s not commercialized, not noisy, and that’s what makes it so special. Whether you’re heading for the spiritual Tungnath trek or just to lie under a starlit sky, Chopta delivers peace in every breath.