Celestial Tungnath to Chandrashila Trek : 4-Day Himalayan Adventure

If you are planning a breathtaking Himalayan adventure that blends mountain villages, crystal-clear lakes, ancient temples, and spellbinding sunrise views, then this 3 Nights 4 Days Sari Village, Tungnath to Chandrashila Trek from Rishikesh is the perfect journey.

This itinerary covers some of Uttarakhand’s most scenic and spiritually significant locations—Sari Village, Deoria Tal, Tungnath Temple, and the iconic Chandrashila Peak—making it one of the best short Himalayan treks for beginners as well as experienced trekkers.

This detailed travel blog will walk you through the complete itinerary, how to reach, what to expect, best time to visit, and everything else you need to know before you embark on this magical 4-day Himalayan experience.

It’s an  travelers-friendly travel blog designed to capture the attention of adventure seekers, nature lovers, and spiritual tourists searching for the best Himalayan treks for beginners or a quick weekend getaway to Chopta.

Discover the “Mini Switzerland of India”—Chopta—hike to the highest Shiva Temple in the world at Tungnath, and witness an unforgettable sunrise from the Chandrashila Peak summit. This detailed guide ensures you have all the information to plan your next incredible mountain escape.

Why Choose This Trek?

This trek is ideal for:

• Nature lovers seeking Himalayan serenity
• Beginners looking for a moderate trek
• Devotees who want to visit the highest Shiva temple in the world – Tungnath
• Photographers searching for the best sunrise views in Uttarakhand
• Adventure travellers starting their Himalayan trekking journey

The route blends spirituality, nature, local culture, and adventure—making it a complete travel experience.

Quick Trek Overview: Tungnath – Chandrashila – Deoriatal

The Divine Itinerary: Rishikesh to Chandrashila and Back

Day 1: Rishikesh – Sari Village (The Journey Begins)

• Total Distance: Approx. 200 Km (6-7 Hours Drive)
• Altitude of Sari: Approx. 2,000 meters (6,560 ft)

Itinerary Steps: Your Himalayan road trip kicks off early from Rishikesh. The long but immensely scenic drive takes you along the famous Devprayag stretch. This is where the holy rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi merge to form the sacred River Ganga, a sight that is both religiously significant and visually stunning.

The route winds through charming towns, offering a gradual transition from the bustling plains to the tranquil mountains of Garhwal. You’ll reach the quaint and picturesque Sari Village—the base camp for the Deoriatal trek—by evening. This small, traditional Himalayan hamlet, known for its terraced fields and gentle mountain slopes, provides the perfect environment for acclimatization.

• Meals Included: Dinner (A warm, local Garhwali meal to welcome you.)

• Accommodation Included: Overnight in village Homestay in Sari Village (Experience authentic local hospitality.)

Day 2: The Mystical Deoriatal Lake Trek (Lake of the Gods)

• Trek Distance: 5-6 km Round Trip Trek from Sari village.

• Deoriatal Altitude: Approx. 2,438 meters (8,000 ft)

Itinerary Steps: After a filling breakfast at the homestay, the short and easy trek to Deoriatal begins. The well-marked trail ascends gently through dense forests of Rhododendron and Oak, occasionally offering glimpses of the surrounding peaks.

The destination, Deoriatal, is an emerald alpine lake famous for its mirror-like reflections of the colossal Chaukhamba Peak (7,138m) and other mighty peaks like Kedar Dome and Neelkanth. According to Hindu mythology, this lake is where the Pandavas were questioned by the Yaksha.

Spend the day soaking in the tranquil beauty, enjoying photography, and a packed lunch by the lakeside. The short distance makes it ideal for an easy day hike, allowing you to return to the comfort of your Sari Village homestay for the night, well-rested for the next day’s challenge.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch (Packed for the trek), Dinner.

• Accommodation Included: Overnight in village Homestay at Sari Village.

Day 3: Summit Day – Tungnath & Chandrashila Peak

• Trek Distance: Approx. 10-12 km Round Trip (from Sari/Chopta)

• Tungnath Altitude: Approx. 3,680 meters (12,073 ft)

• Chandrashila Peak Altitude: Approx. 4,000 meters (13,123 ft)

Itinerary Steps: Today is the most exhilarating day of the trek! You’ll start with an early drive (approx. 1-hour) from Sari to Chopta (often called the “Mini Switzerland” for its stunning meadows). From the Chopta base, the ascent to Tungnath Temple begins.

The trail is well-paved and manageable, winding through picturesque alpine meadows and dense forests. Tungnath Temple is not just a breathtaking sight but a place of deep spiritual significance, being the highest Shiva Temple in the world and one of the Panch Kedar shrines.

After a short rest and darshan, the final 1.5 km climb to the Chandrashila Peak summit begins. This final stretch is slightly steeper but the reward is worth every effort: a sensational 360-degree view of the Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, and Chaukhamba.

This is the peak moment of the trek! After basking in the glory of the summit, descend back to Chopta and then drive a short distance to the designated camping area for an overnight stay.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Accommodation Included: Overnight at Gomukh (Assuming Gomukh refers to a nearby camping/stay area close to Chopta/Baniyakund, as is common for this circuit.)

Day 4: Return to Rishikesh via Spiritual Stops

• Total Distance: Approx. 200 Km (6-7 Hours Drive)

Itinerary Steps: Enjoy a final Himalayan sunrise and a hearty breakfast before beginning the long but scenic drive back to Rishikesh. The journey is punctuated by two highly significant stops. First, a visit to the Dhari Devi Temple, an ancient, powerful shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali, perched on the banks of the Alaknanda River.

She is revered as the protector of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and the entire Garhwal region. Next, a stop at Devprayag, the divine confluence point where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers meet to form the Holy Ganga. This holy sangam is a sight of immense spiritual importance. You will reach Rishikesh by late afternoon or evening, carrying memories of high peaks, serene lakes, and divine rivers.

• Meals Included: Breakfast.

• Accommodation Included: Overnight at Tented accommodation at Tapovan (This suggests an optional extra night/stay after the trek concludes, back in Rishikesh. The trek ends in Rishikesh.)

Why Choose the Chopta-Chandrashila Trek? (SEO Focus: Unique Selling Points)

The Chopta Chandrashila trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most popular trekking circuits for good reason. It’s an easy to moderate trail, making it perfectly accessible for first-time trekkers and families, yet it offers high-altitude views that rival more challenging expeditions.

1. Highest Shiva Temple: The trek takes you to Tungnath, the highest Shiva Temple in the world, a site of deep cultural and spiritual heritage. The ancient stone architecture against the snow-capped backdrop creates a mystical atmosphere.

2. 360-Degree Views: Chandrashila Peak, literally meaning ‘Moon Rock’, delivers an unparalleled 360-degree panorama of the great Himalayan range. Seeing major peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba from one spot is a rare treat for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

3. The Lake of Reflections: Deoriatal is a pristine, emerald lake known for its incredible reflections of the Chaukhamba massif. It’s the ideal spot for a moment of quiet contemplation and stunning landscape photography.

4. The Spiritual Gateway: Starting from Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World, adds a layer of spiritual depth to your adventure. The journey back includes stops at powerful spiritual sites like Dhari Devi Temple and the sacred Devprayag Sangam.

 Essential Trekking Tips

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable  Tungnath to Chandrashila Trek 4-day  Himalayan adventure, keep the following in mind:

• Best Time to Visit: The trek is best enjoyed in two seasons: Summer/Spring (April to June) when the trail is bursting with blooming Rhododendron flowers, and Autumn (September to November) for crystal-clear skies and the best mountain visibility.

• Difficulty Level: Classified as Easy to Moderate. The initial Deoriatal hike is very easy, while the Tungnath and Chandrashila sections involve a steep ascent and a high altitude, requiring a basic level of fitness (light jogging or regular brisk walking is recommended preparation).

• Altitude Acclimatization: The gradual ascent from Sari to Tungnath/Chandrashila helps with acclimatization. Stay hydrated, trek slowly, and be mindful of any signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Your lower two-night stay in Sari Village is strategically planned for this.

• Packing Essentials: Always carry warm layers (thermal wear), a waterproof and windproof jacket, sturdy trekking shoes, a headlamp, personal medication, and a first aid kit.

• Responsible Tourism: Help preserve the pristine beauty of this region. Carry back all non-biodegradable waste. Chopta and the entire Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary area are eco-sensitive zones.

Trek Difficulty & Preparation

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Recommended Gear:

• Good trekking shoes
• Warm jackets and thermals
• Day backpack
• Reusable water bottle
• Trekking pole (optional)
• Power bank & basic medical kit

Why This Trek Is Perfect for You

This short Himalayan itinerary combines:

• Village life
• A serene mountain lake
• The world’s highest Shiva temple
• One of the best sunrise viewpoints in Uttarakhand
• Easy accessibility from Rishikesh

This 4-dayTungnath to Chandrashila Trek from Rishikesh is a complete package: a comfortable long drive, an easy forest walk to a serene lake, the challenge of a summit climb to an ancient temple, and a drive back along a spiritual path.

It offers a truly unforgettable experience for anyone looking for the best treks in Uttarakhand without needing expert-level training. Book your journey to the land of the gods and the highest temple now for an adventure that will cleanse your body, mind, and soul.

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