If someone had told me a few years ago that I’d be standing above the clouds, catching a sunrise over Nanda Devi from a 13,000 ft summit, I might’ve laughed it off. But in April, I finally made that dream a reality with the Chopta-Chandrashila Trek—my first real Himalayan adventure, and one that I’ll never forget.
🥾 Why I Chose Chopta-Chandrashila for My First Trek
When I began researching beginner-friendly treks, Chopta-Chandrashila stood out like a beacon. Not only did it promise spectacular Himalayan views, but it also offered spiritual richness, being home to the Tungnath Temple—the highest Shiva temple in the world. It felt like the right mix of adventure, peace, and purpose.
🚶♂️ The Journey Begins for Chopta-Chandrashila : My First Step Into the Unknown
The drive to Chopta itself was mesmerizing. Rolling pine forests, winding roads, and glimpses of snow-capped peaks kept me glued to the window. Reaching Chopta, the air was crisp and scented with pine—a welcome change from city smog.
I remember pitching my tent under a sky bursting with stars. The silence was unreal. I had no phone signal, and for once, I didn’t care.
🌿 Walking Through Forests, Walking Through Myself Chopta-Chandrashila
The next morning, I started the trek to Tungnath with a rented trekking pole and a heart full of nerves. As I walked through forests of rhododendron and oak, I realized the trek wasn’t just about reaching the top—it was about everything I was seeing, hearing, and feeling along the way.
The trail was steep in places, but manageable. I met fellow trekkers—some solo like me, some in groups. We bonded over Maggie noodles, sore legs, and shared wonder.
🛕 Tungnath Temple: A Silent Conversation with the Divine Chopta-Chandrashila
Reaching Tungnath Temple was surreal. At over 12,000 ft, the centuries-old stone structure sat quietly against a dramatic sky. I’m not deeply religious, but something about that place made me pause. It was spiritual, grounding—maybe even healing.
I offered a small prayer, not for anything in particular, but as a thank you for bringing me there.
🧗♂️ Chandrashila Summit: The Moment That Changed Me
The final stretch to Chandrashila was tough. My legs ached, the air thinned, and the wind was icy. But then—that view. Standing on the summit, I saw a 270-degree panorama of the Garhwal Himalayas: Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba. The sun broke over the peaks like a blessing.
I had tears in my eyes—not just from the cold. It was pride. I made it. From being scared of heights to standing on a Himalayan summit.
📸 Things I Learned in Chopta-Chandrashila trek (and Took With Me)
- It’s okay to go slow. Everyone has their pace—physically and emotionally.
- Pack light, but smart. Layering is key, and don’t forget a rain jacket.
- Listen to your body. Take breaks, hydrate, and stretch before you sleep.
- Talk to locals. Their stories and tips often don’t show up on Google.
📌 Travel Tips from My Personal Experience on Chopta-Chandrashila
- Best time to go: I went in April—clear skies, pleasant days, snowy peaks.
- Packing advice: Good trekking shoes are a must. Also carry sunscreen, gloves, a headlamp, and thermal wear.
- Where I stayed: I camped near Chopta and booked a small guesthouse via a local guide.
- Phone signal: Barely any. Download offline maps and tell family in advance.
📝 Final Thoughts on Chopta-Chandrashila
The Chopta-Chandrashila Trehttps://exploremountains.com/contacts/k wasn’t just a trek—it was a life checkpoint. A reminder that we’re capable of more than we believe, that nature heals in silent ways, and that sometimes, disconnecting is the best way to reconnect—with ourselves.
If you’re reading this and wondering if you should go—do it. Take that first step. You might come back with sore calves, but you’ll also return with a fuller heart.
