Chandrashila
Chandrashila is summit of the Tungnath. It literally means “Moon Rock”. It is located at a height of about 4,000 metres above sea level. This peak provides views of the Himalayas, including Nandadevi, Trisul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch and Chaukhamba peaks. There are various legends associated with this place.
According to one such legend, this is the place where Lord Rama meditated after defeating the demon-king Ravana. Another legend says that moon-god Chandra spent time here in penance.
Trekking
Chandrashila treks are one of the most popular treks among Indian trekking enthusiasts. The trek to the peak is 5 km. The trek route that starts from Chopta takes one to Tungnath (highest Shiva temple in the World), from here it is a kilometer long, and a steep trek. Though shorter in distance, steep climbing makes this trek rigorous.
This trek is undertaken throughout the year although during winter season due to snowfall this trek becomes hard as road to Chopta gets closed. Trekkers use a different route during this period (Deoria Tal – Duggalbitta – Tungnath – Chandrashila).
Best Time To Do Deoriatal Chandrashila Peak Trek
Even though Chopta Chandrashila is a high altitude trek, it can be done for almost 6 months in the year. And there are three clear seasons to do this trek starting with spring between March and April. After which the trek opens in autumn and goes until December.
Post December in the peak winter months, the Chopta region receives heavy snowfall. Many times the road to Chopta is cut off due to snow. The roads there are also highly prone to verglas, making driving dangerous.
We strongly recommend against planning to visit Chopta Chandrashila in January and February.
Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek in Spring
The biggest highlight of the Spring season are the blooming Rhododendrons. The Deoriatal Chandrashila trek gets decked up under a canopy of flowers. The red Rhododendrons bloom on the trees on day one.
The second and third day is a riot of pink Rhododendrons. Deoriatal Chandrashila trek in Spring is the best trek in our country to experience Rhododendrons.
In March-April you can expect to see snow on the trek, which can start at the Syalmi campsite. The climb to Tungnath and Chandrashila will largely be on snow until the first week of April. The second half of April sees the snow melting away.
Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek in Summer
Summers bring out a green colour palette on this trek, one that you might not witness in any other season.
The forests and meadows look bright and sunny during May-June. Early in June, slopes may receive light summer showers and the flora turns lush.
The trek is at its easiest, and is a great getaway from the summer heat of the plains. It also makes for perfect time to introduce children to the Himalayas during the summer vacations.
Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek in Autumn
The next best time to do the trek would be in the post-monsoon months of September, October and November. Post monsoon, the sky is washed clean of all the haze.
And it’s a perfect time for the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek which is known for the stunning views of the Garhwal Himalayas. It is in autumn that you get the clearest views of these mountains.
Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek in Winter
Another great time for a snow experience on the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek is the month of December. This is the onset of winter, when it just starts snowing. The snow isn’t too thick to block the trail. It isn’t so thin that it disappears within a few days either.
It’s a wonderful time to camp in snow and trek in snow. Perfect for snowball fights and an experience of snowfall if you’re lucky.
How To Reach Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek From Rishikesh
The Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek, is an extension of the popular one day Chopta Chandrashila trek.
The Deoriatal Chandrashila trek begins at a small village called Sari which is 12 kms away from Ukhimath town in Rudraprayag district.
Sari lies about 195 kms away from Rishikesh and the road drive takes about 8-9 hours.
Visa requirements | Visa in not needed for Indian citizens. Everyone else need a visa. |
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Languages spoken | Hindi |
Country name | India (Bharat) |