Chopta Travel Guide | Best Time, Places to Visit & Stay

Chopta – Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand

Chopta is a small alpine hill station located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, surrounded by lush meadows and dense forests. Known as the base for the Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak trek, Chopta is often called the Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.

It is a peaceful, offbeat destination with minimal construction, making it ideal for nature lovers, trekkers, photographers, and travelers seeking quiet mountain stays.

Best For: Meadows, trekking, peace, mountain views
Ideal Duration: 2–3 days
Altitude: ~2,680 meters

Why Visit Chopta

• One of the most scenic meadow regions in Uttarakhand

• Base for Tungnath (world’s highest Shiva temple)

• Access to Chandrashila summit with 360° Himalayan views

• Low crowd density and minimal commercialization

• Excellent for camping, photography, and slow travel

Best Time to Visit

• April – June: Best overall season; pleasant weather and trekking

• July – September: Lush greenery; road conditions depend on rainfall

• October – November: Clear skies, cold nights, stunning views

• December – March: Snowbound; road access may be limited

How to Reach Chopta

By Air

Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

By Train

Nearest railway stations:

• Haridwar

• Rishikesh

By Road

Chopta is accessed via Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta.
Final stretch is scenic but narrow.

Places to Visit in & Around Chopta

Chopta Meadows

Open alpine grasslands ideal for walks, photography, and camping.

Tungnath Temple

The highest Shiva temple in the world, located around 3.5 km from Chopta.

Chandrashila Summit

Summit above Tungnath offering panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Trishul ranges.

Dugalbitta

Small hamlet near Chopta with forest stays and peaceful surroundings.

Things to Do in Chopta

• Trek to Tungnath & Chandrashila

• Meadow walks and nature photography

• Camping under clear night skies

• Sunrise and sunset viewing

• Birdwatching and forest walks

Suggested Chopta Itinerary (2–3 Days)

Day 1:
Arrival at Chopta → Meadow walks → Sunset views

Day 2:
Early morning trek to Tungnath & Chandrashila → Return & rest

Day 3 (Optional):
Leisure morning → Departure

Where to Stay in Chopta

Budget

• Camps and basic guesthouses

Mid-Range

• Eco-lodges and fixed tents

Premium

• Limited boutique eco-resorts (seasonal)

Facilities are basic; luxury options are limited.

Food & Dining

Food options are limited to dhabas, camps, and in-house meals at stays. Expect simple North Indian and Garhwali meals.

Travel Tips

• Carry warm clothes even in summer

• Limited mobile network and electricity

• Start treks early for best visibility

• Carry cash; ATMs are far

• Avoid late-night driving

Who Should Visit Chopta

• Trekking enthusiasts

• Nature & landscape photographers

• Solo travelers and couples

• Travelers seeking quiet mountain destinations

• First-time Himalayan trekkers

👉 Download Chopta Hill Station PDF

PDF Includes

• Short overview

• Why visit Chopta

• Best time to visit

• Top places & activities

• 2–3 day itinerary

• Basic travel tips