Chopta, Tungnath and Chandrashila.

Chopta, Tungnath and Chandrashila.
Chopta is an undiscovered and yet unexploited excursion point for the trekking enthusiasts. Situated at an altitude of about 2500 mtrs, Chopta gives a picturesque view of the Himalayas.
The 3.4 km trekking route to Tungnath temple (3500 mts) through dense alpine forest gives a breathtaking view of the natures’ beauty. A 2 km straight climb to Chandrashila is worth exploring as you can have a 360 degree view of the Himalayas from the ChandraShila point at an altitude of about 4000 mtrs.
Chopta, Tungnath and Chandrashila are covered with snow during winters. If you visit the place during Dec-Feb, you may encounter snowfall and enjoy trekking with snow. Click here for trekking pictures in snow towards Tungnath.
Tungnath temple:According to Hindu mythology, lord Shiva and Parvati both have been associated with the Himalayas which is believed to be the abode of Gods. Shiva is believed to reside at Mount Kailash while Parvati (Shail Putri) is mythologically regarded as the daughter of hills.
The temple of Tungnath is considered to be more than 1000 years old. The temple is magnificent in its style and architecture. The Tungnath temple compound contains the main temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, temple dedicated to Godess Parvati and few other smaller temples can be seen in the close vicinity.
Tungnath temple - Mythological history: The local tales and beliefs are associated with the Mahabharat and the adventures of the Pandaves when they were in exile. It is considered that the Pandavas felt guilty of having killed their own kith and kin after the great battle of Kurukshetra. They needed the blessings of lord Shiva for their redemption. Lord Shiva was not willing and so eluded them. The place Guptkashi is where he disappeared or became gupt. He took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a Bull. Being followed by the Pandavs, he dived into the ground leaving his hump on the surface. The eldest brother Yudishter built a temple and worshiped.
Tungnath, the highest shrine of lord Shiva among the Panch Kedar is at an elevation of about 3600 mts. Enroute exotic varieties of rhododendrons, white flowers and shrub like trees can be seen in abundance. It is at a four kilometer trek from Chopta which is situated on the Gopeshwar - Ukhimath road about 40 kms from Gopeshwar at an altitude of 2900 mts. Chopta itself provided a breathtaking view of the Himalayan ranges and surrounding areas. The remaining portion of god reappeared at four other places. The Head appeared at Pashupatinath which is in Nepal, the thighs appeared at Tungnath where Arjuna built a temple and worshiped, the middle portion at Madmaheshwar where Bhima built a temple, and the lock with head at Kalpeshwar where Nakula worshipped. These are known as the Panch Kedar and a place of worship for the locals.
Chandrashila:From Tungnath another 2 kms trek takes you to the top Chandrashila which gives a 360 degree view of the Himalayas. All major peaks like Chokhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi etc. are visible at very short distances from Chandrashila. The altitude of Chandrashila is about 4000 mts.
Accessibility:Tungnath temple can be reached through a 3.5 km trek from Chopta between the dense Rhododendron forests. As you climb towards Tungnath, a wider Himalayan view approaches you and accompanies throughout the trek. Chopta can be reached through a motorable road from Okhimath.
Best Time to Visit:Tungnath is covered with snow between Dec-Feb and this is could be the best time to approach Tungnath but beware of heavy snowfall which may block the road accessibility to Chopta.Most of the tourists flock to Chopta, Tungnath during summers April-June.
Accommodation: Only a few accommodation options are available at Chopta and Tungnath. Limited GMNVL rest houses are available during peak season besides the local hotels (small rooms fair enough to spend some days) at Chopta.Some small rooms/hotels are also available at Tungnath during peak season.Incase you are not able to locate a accommodation for you in Chopta, you may drive to Gopeshwar (39 kms from Chopta) where you may easily find Hotels to stay.
Tips:The temperature is very low in winters; ensure to bring heavy woolens if you are visiting in winters. Gloves, woolen caps and windcheaters are strongly recommended. To enjoy the snow, arrange Snow boots.