Why the Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek is a Himalayan Dream
Here is why this trek is so famous, what to explore, and how you can embark on this journey.
By Ajit Brar
The Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek in Uttarakhand‘s Garhwal Himalayas is one of India’s most celebrated trekking routes, and for good reason! It’s a perfect blend of breathtaking views, rich mythology, and moderate difficulty, making it a favorite for both beginners and seasoned trekkers.
Here is why this trek is so famous, what to explore, and how you can embark on this journey.
Why the Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek is a Legend
This trek offers an almost perfect Himalayan experience packed into a relatively short itinerary:
- The Unrivaled Sunrise View: The ultimate reward is the panoramic, 360-degree view from the Chandrashila summit (approx. 4,000 meters/13,000 ft). You witness a stunning sunrise that illuminates a galaxy of Himalayan giants, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedar Peak, and Bandarpunch.
- The Highest Shiva Temple: The route takes you to the ancient Tungnath Temple, which, at an altitude of 3,680 meters, is the highest Shiva temple in the world and one of the five sacred Panch Kedar shrines. The blend of spirituality and nature is mesmerizing.
- The Lake of Reflections (Deoriatal): The trek starts with the serene Deoriatal Lake, famous for its crystal-clear waters that perfectly mirror the majestic, snow-capped Chaukhamba massif. Legend has it that the Hindu gods (Devas) bathed in this lake.
- A Beginner’s Paradise: While challenging enough to be rewarding, the trail is considered moderate and is often recommended as an ideal first Himalayan trek. The well-marked path, and the gradual ascent (mostly) make it accessible to people of various fitness levels.
- The “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”: The base of the Tungnath-Chandrashila part is Chopta, a stunning, verdant meadow often nicknamed the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand” for its expansive green landscapes and unparalleled beauty.
- Forests of Rhododendrons: Trekking through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, the path is surrounded by dense forests of oak and vibrant rhododendrons (Burans). If you go in spring (March to May), the entire forest floor is ablaze with crimson, scarlet, and pink blooms—a truly magical sight!
Essential Spots to Explore & Things to Do
| Spot/Location | Altitude (Approx.) | Highlights & Activities |
| Sari Village | 2,000 m (6,560 ft) | Base camp for the Deoriatal portion. Enjoy local Garhwali culture and mountain views. |
| Deoriatal Lake | 2,438 m (8,000 ft) | Photography (especially the Chaukhamba reflection). Camping near the lake is an unforgettable experience. |
| Chopta | 2,680 m (8,800 ft) | Base camp for the Tungnath/Chandrashila portion. Enjoy the vast, scenic meadows. Birdwatching is excellent here, especially for the Himalayan Monal (the state bird of Uttarakhand). |
| Tungnath Temple | 3,680 m (12,073 ft) | Pay respects at the highest Shiva temple. Admire the traditional stone architecture and soak in the spiritual energy. |
| Chandrashila Summit | 4,000 m (13,000 ft) | The ultimate goal! Witness the 360-degree Himalayan sunrise/sunset. Spend time soaking in the views of over a dozen major peaks. |
| Rohini Bugyal | Varies on the Deoriatal-Chopta route | A stunning meadow filled with wildflowers and rhododendrons, offering spectacular mountain views—a perfect picnic spot. |
How to Reach the Base Camp
The trek typically begins from Sari Village for the Deoriatal part, or Chopta for the Tungnath-Chandrashila part. Sari Village is often the preferred starting point for the full experience.
1. Getting to the Nearest Major Hub: Rishikesh/Haridwar
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun. From there, you can take a taxi to Rishikesh or Haridwar.
- By Rail: Rishikesh and Haridwar have major railway stations well-connected to Delhi and other cities.
2. Reaching the Base Village (Sari Village)
- Last Motorable Point: Sari Village (or nearby Ukhimath) is the last point accessible by road.
- By Road from Rishikesh/Haridwar:
- Direct Taxi: The most comfortable option is to hire a private taxi directly from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Sari Village. This is about a 7-8 hour drive (approx. 180-200 km) and follows the route through Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Ukhimath.
- Public/Shared Transport: You can take a public bus or shared taxi to Ukhimath (a major town). From Ukhimath, shared taxis or local cabs are readily available for the final 12 km stretch to Sari Village.
Tip: Start your journey from Rishikesh/Haridwar early in the morning (around 6 AM) to ensure you reach Sari Village before dark, which is crucial for mountain travel.
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Conquer the Himalayas: 10 Beginner-Friendly Mountain Treks in India
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