Baniyakund: A Gatewy to Chopta Tungnath Temple

Baniyakund is like the starting point of adventure. This tiny village is where the path to Chopta Tungnath hill station begins, just like how  bell rings of the temples to steps into . There are a few small, cozy places here—like little classroom nooks—where travelers can stay, much like students finding their favorite spots in Baniyakund , There are  hotels and camps are perfect for anyone visiting Chopta Tungnath, offering a  warm and natural space to hang out for a day.

Baniyakund – “A Nature-Lover’s Paradise”

Baniya Kund is like a secret hideaway at the very start of the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary, sitting 4 kilometers before Chopta at 2,450 meters above sea level. It’s almost as if you’re standing on the edge of a huge playground, overlooking the endless horizon of the Garhwal Himalayas. The closest town is Ukhimath, where the locals of Baniya Kund go to get their supplies, just like when students visit the school canteen.

Ukhimath to Baniyakund

The drive from Ukhimath to Baniya Kund, feels like a journey through a storybook forest, with well-paved roads winding through dense trees. You can spot a few villages along the way, and every turn reveals glimpses of snow-covered mountains, like hidden treasures.

Baniyakund to Tungnath

There’s even an old path leading to Tungnath Temple from Baniya Kund,, which feels like a secret trail waiting to be discovered. You can start your trek to Chopta from here, then continue up to the highest temple of Lord Shiva at Tungnath and finally reach Chandrashila Peak.

What’s around Baniya Kund?

Chopta: Imagine a place straight out of a nature book! Chopta is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, perfect for anyone who loves breathtaking views and exciting treks.

Tungnath: This is the highest temple of Lord Shiva, one of the sacred Panch Kedar, sitting proudly on the Chandranath Parbat in Rudraprayag. It’s like the ultimate destination after a long hike.

Dugalbitta: Tucked within the lovely land of Chopta, Dugalbitta is like a little resting spot for travelers on their way to Chopta or Char Dham, almost like a cozy stopover between classes.

Chandrashila: Perched at 4,000 meters, Chandrashila is the summit of the Chandranath Parvat where Tungnath Temple stands. Reaching here is like climbing to the top of the world!

Deoria Tal: Deoria Tal, or Devaria/Deoriya, is a serene lake at 2,438 meters in Rudraprayag. It’s like looking into a magical mirror that perfectly reflects the majestic Chaukhamba on its crystal-clear water, a sight you’d never forget!

Location of Baniya Kund

Baniya Kund, is nestled in the heart of Chopta, serving as a convenient halt for travelers journeying between Ukhimath and Gopeshwar.

Location & How to Reach Baniyakund

Baniya Kund is located along the Ukhimath-Gopeshwar route, right within the main Chopta hamlet. To reach this picturesque spot, you can hire a Tata Sumo or another vehicle. For those preferring public transport, there’s also a daily morning bus from Ukhimath to Gopeshwar that stops at Baniyakund.

For more detailed information, you can check out a guide on how to reach Chopta.

Stay in Baniya Kund

In Baniya Kund, you’ll find a few budget hotels and resorts offering basic amenities for your visit to Chopta. While these options are comfortable, we highly recommend staying at the Meraki Mayadeep Hotel in Dugalbitta for a more memorable experience. Additionally, there are three roadside eateries (dhabas) in Baniyakund that serve lunch and dinner to travelers.

Trekking Equipment for Rent in Baniya Kund

If you’re planning to trek in the Chopta region, especially to Tungnath and Chandrashila, there’s a shop in Baniyakund where you can rent trekking equipment and snow boots. This is a convenient option for those who need gear for their adventure.

Seasons in Baniya Kund

• Winter: In winter, especially during heavy snowfall like in 2019, Baniyakund can become cut off for a few days in January and February. During this time, hotels usually close, and the roads may be inaccessible, so it’s important to check road conditions before planning a visit.
• Summer: Baniyakund comes alive in the summer with pleasant weather and clear skies. The scenic beauty of the hamlet is enhanced by the colorful flowers and plants in full bloom, making it an ideal time to visit.
• Monsoon: The monsoon season turns Baniyakund into a lush, green paradise. However, the rain can make the roads slippery, so travelers should be cautious when exploring during this time. The cloudy weather adds to the picturesque charm of the area.