Revised Rishikesh to Chopta Taxi Fare: Distance, Costs, 2025-26

Rishikesh, the lively Yoga Capital, acts as the ultimate gateway to the deeper spirituality and breathtaking treks of the Garhwal Himalayas. While many visitors enjoy the local charm of the Beatles Ashram Rishikesh, a true mountain adventure lies further afield: the renowned Tungnath-Chandrashila trek, based out of the serene meadows of Chopta.

Planning this journey starts with one crucial question: How do I get there, and how much will it cost?

This definitive guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Rishikesh to Chopta taxi fare, alongside bus options, travel times, and all the logistical details for your ascent to Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple.

Rishikesh to Tungnath
Rishikesh to Tungnath

The Journey At a Glance: Rishikesh to Chopta (The Base)

Chopta, often dubbed the ‘Mini Switzerland of India,’ is the road head for the trek to Tungnath. The final 3.5 km trek to Tungnath starts from Chopta. Therefore, when calculating costs, you are primarily looking at the journey from Rishikesh to Chopta.

Rishikesh to Chopta Distance and Time

Segment Distance Estimated Travel Time Notes
Rishikesh to Chopta Approx. 200 km – 215 km 6.5 to 7.5 hours Road journey ends at Chopta (Base Camp)
Chopta to Tungnath 3.5 km 2 – 3 hours Trek only (Highest Shiva Temple in the world)
Total Travel Time N/A Approx. 9 to 10 hours Includes transfers, lunch stop, and trek

The route is incredibly scenic, passing through the historic confluences of Devprayag and Rudraprayag before ascending into the dense deodar and rhododendron forests of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.

Rishikesh to Chopta Taxi Fare: Private Cab Breakdown (2025 Rates)

The private taxi is the most comfortable, fastest, and most common way to cover the substantial Rishikesh to Chopta distance. Fares are generally quoted on a per-day basis (since the journey is long) or as an all-inclusive one-way drop.

Chopta Uttarakhand
Chopta Uttarakhand

Current Estimated One-Way Taxi Fares

Vehicle Type Seats Approximate Rishikesh to Chopta Taxi Fare (One-Way Drop) Ideal For
Sedan (Dzire, Etios) 4 ₹5,500 – ₹7,500 Budget-conscious travelers, couples
SUV (Ertiga, Xylo) 6 ₹7,600 – ₹9,500 Small families, those with extra luggage
Innova/Crysta 6 ₹8,000 – ₹11,000 Maximum comfort, long journey, premium service

Key Fee Note: These rates are generally inclusive of driver allowance (DA) and night charges, but you must confirm with your vendor if Toll Taxes and State Taxes are included, or if they will be added on top of the base fare. Always clarify the final, all-inclusive rate before beginning your trip.

Planning a Multi-Day Trip: Chopta Tungnath Taxi Fare (Round Trip)

For a typical 2-day or 3-day Tungnath trek package starting from Rishikesh, hiring the same cab for a round trip is often the most efficient choice.

  • Fare Calculation: Round trip fares are typically calculated on a Minimum Distance/Day basis (usually 250 km/day or more) plus a per-kilometer charge.
  • Per-Day Package: Expect daily charges ranging from ₹4,250 to ₹6,990 per day (depending on the car type), with a minimum distance covered. Since the round trip is over 400 km, the total cost will exceed the minimum.
  • Total Cost Estimate: For a 3-day trip, expect the total Rishikesh to Tungnath taxi fare (return) to fall between ₹12,000 and ₹20,000, based on the vehicle and specific itinerary (which covers your time in Chopta).
Chopta to Badrinath distance
Chopta to Badrinath distance

The Budget Option: Rishikesh to Tungnath Bus Fare and Shared Taxi

For the budget backpacker, relying on public transport significantly cuts the Rishikesh to Chopta taxi fare but adds complexity and travel time.

Segmented Bus Journey & Estimated Fare

There are no direct buses from Rishikesh all the way to Chopta/Tungnath. You must travel in segments via key transit points:

  1. Rishikesh to Rudraprayag/Ukhimath:
    • Mode: State Transport Bus (Uttarakhand Roadways).
    • Fare: Rishikesh to Tungnath bus fare for this leg is approximately ₹350 – ₹550 per person.
    • Timings: Buses leave the Rishikesh Bus Stand early in the morning (first bus typically around 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM). You must start early.
  2. Rudraprayag/Ukhimath to Chopta:
    • Mode: Shared Jeep/Maxi Cab.
    • Fare: Expect to pay ₹150 – ₹250 per person.
    • Availability: These shared services are infrequent and rely on other passengers. They often leave early in the morning (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM).
Mode Total Approximate Cost (One-Way) Total Time Notes
Shared Transport ₹500 – ₹800 per person 9 – 10 hours Slow, requires transfers, depends on availability.

Critical Tip: If you choose the bus, you must start from Rishikesh before 6:00 AM to ensure you reach Ukhimath or Rudraprayag in time to catch the last shared transport to Chopta before afternoon.

Rishikesh to Chopta
Rishikesh to Chopta

The Final Leg: Beyond the Chopta Taxi Fare

Reaching Chopta is only half the adventure. The Rishikesh to Tungnath distance requires a final, unmotorized effort.

Once you arrive at Chopta (2,680m), you begin the trek:

  • Chopta to Tungnath Temple: A well-defined, paved track spanning 3.5 km. Takes about 2-3 hours.
  • Tungnath to Chandrashila Peak: An additional 1.5 km climb from the temple. Necessary for the iconic Himalayan sunrise view.

The highest reward—standing at Tungnath, the world’s loftiest Shiva temple—is well worth the cost and the travel time from Rishikesh.

 Planning Your Trip: Combining Rishikesh Destinations

While the main keyword for this guide is Rishikesh to Beatles Ashram, remember that Rishikesh is your hub for both short and long spiritual journeys:

Journey Type Destination Distance from Rishikesh Ideal Transport
Local Spiritual/History Beatles Ashram Rishikesh Approx. 2 km Auto-rickshaw or Walk
Himalayan Trek/Pilgrimage Tungnath / Chopta Approx. 200 km Private Taxi or Segmented Bus/Jeep

By securing your reliable Rishikesh to Chopta taxi fare in advance, you ensure a comfortable transition from the serene Ganga banks to the majestic alpine meadows of the Himalayas.

Rishikesh to Chopta Taxi Fare Rishikesh to Chopta Taxi Fare Rishikesh to Chopta Taxi Fare Rishikesh to Chopta Taxi Fare Rishikesh to Chopta Taxi Fare 

Author

Namaste! I am Om. I am a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I’m originally from Varanasi. Now, I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel more. Hari Om

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