7 Astounding Reasons Why You Should Head To The Chopta Valley In 2024

27 Oct 2021

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Trekking during the winter season to the Himalayas amidst the snow-capped mountains can be one of the most brilliant experiences. Amongst all the other treks, Chopta Valley is considered to be one of the most striking ones. Tucked in the amazing valley of Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, this is one of the best treks to get involved in during this winter season. The sweeping views of the surroundings would captivate the hearts and minds of all the trekkers. Trying to catch a glimpse of the surrounding peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Trishul Peaks would make the trek even more exciting.

Best Time To Visit Chopta Valley

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Of course, winter is one of the best seasons to visit Chopta valley in Uttarakhand, especially if you have always dreamt of a snow trek. However, the trek is opened even during the summer season. If you want to visit other places and also want to get an amazing view of the lush green valley, the months from March to May are the ideal ones. Else, October to February can also be the best time to go here if you want to be covered up with snow, and trekking in the snow-capped mountains can be a great one.

Weather Of Chopta Valley In Uttarakhand

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The maximum temperature from October to January can be anywhere between 15 degrees Celsius to 21 degrees Celsius. During the months of March to May, the average temperature can range anywhere between 12 degrees Celsius to 21 degrees Celsius. Depending on one’s convenience, trek to Chopta valley can be planned accordingly. The weather of Chopta valley in Uttarakhand can be pretty harsh at times.

Average Budget For Chopta Valley Trip

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The overall cost for the Chopta trek can be anywhere 15-20k. If you are residents of Delhi then, the cost can be reduced further as one need not fly. If you are traveling from any other places, the trek cost would be slightly on the higher side because of the flight charges. Also, there are certain essentials that one must buy for the trek, which can probably cost a little extra. There are packages as well, which one can choose too, and this would have everything covered as part of the trek.

If you are planning for an individual trek to Chopta, one can also try doing it on a tight budget too. If it is a group trip, then the cost can be further reduced furthermore. However, it is recommended to have at least 15k-20K for the Chopta trek.

7 Best Tourist Attractions Near Chopta

There are a lot of places that one can visit during Trekking in Chopta Valley. It is not just about trekking; it is also about going to a few other places that are mentioned below.

1. Tungnath

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This is one of the must-visit places during trekking in Chopta Valley. It is located at a distance of 4 km and it takes about 2 hours to reach this peak. Tucked beautifully in the snow-capped peaks of Chandrashila Peak, Tungnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the five holiest Shiva temples located in Uttarakhand. This temple is 1000 years old and is located at an elevation of 3, 680 meters above the sea level. You cannot miss to visit this serene temple on your Chopta Valley trek..

Location: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand

Must Read: 14 Things To Do In Uttarakhand For Adrenaline Rush & Soul-Stirring Thrills

2. Sari Village

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Chopta Valley trek is a great opportunity for you to explore the little hamlets and villages on the way and learn about the lifestyle and culture of Uttarakhand people. Saari Gaon or the Sari village is one of the most beautiful villages that attract a lot of trekkers and travelers. This village is a base camp to everyone, and generally, most of the trekkers would stay here when Chopta is closed due to harsh weather conditions. This place also has a lot of accommodation facilities hence; this is one of the best places to go to during the Chopta trek.

Location: Sari Village,Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand

3. Deoria Tal

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Witnessing a lovely emerald lake early in the morning amidst the snow-capped mountains of Chopta can be one of the wondrous experiences that everyone would crave to have. The reflection of Chaukhamba Peak in the lake is a sight to behold when you are here. This is one of the best lakes that have to be visited during the Chopta trek. Catching the reflections of the surrounding peaks can be really joyous when you are here.

Location: Uttarakhand, India.

4. Kalimath

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Seeing the most ferocious goddess sitting on the peaks amidst these mountains can be one of the best sights. Kalimath also holds a position amongst the 108 other Shakti Peethas; hence, a lot of devotees flock into this temple that is dedicated to the goddess Kali. It is one of the must-go-to places during the Chopta trek. If you have ever wondered what serenity and divinity would be like, then, visiting this place is a must.

Location: Kalimath Village, Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand

5. Baniyakund

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Experiencing the lovely hamlet of Baniyakund becomes mandatory when you are in Chopta. This is one of those attractive meadows that have several accommodation options for trekkers. Hence, it would not be an exaggeration to call Baniyakund as an abode to trekkers. Most of the trekkers choose this place as their base camp during the trek to Chopta and also to Chandrashila or any other peaks nearby.

Location: Uttarakhand 246419

6. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary

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Experiencing wild in the wilderness of Chopta can be the most thrilling experience one could ask for. This sanctuary is surrounded by a wide variety of flora and fauna and known for breeding musk deer and the other Himalayan animals too. If you are a wildlife lover, you would certainly love spending time at this beautiful sanctuary. Also, spotting some of the rarest of animals, especially in the laps of Himalayas can be the best thing to do.

Location: Gopeshwar Road, Chopta
Timing: 9AM – 5 PM

7. Rohini Bugyal

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This is one of the best spots to camp as it is filled with dense forests. One can get to sight the far-reaching views of the Garhwal Himalayas. Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Kedarnath are some of the peaks that one can spot when you are in Rohini Bugyal during the Chopta trek. This is one of the quaintest villages located in the hearts of the majestic Himalayas, which is a paradise for all the trekkers.

Location: 8 kms from Sari village

Things To Do On Chopta Valley Trek

There are a lot of things to do during the trek to Chopta, and well, it becomes essential to experience all these wonderful things at once. The trek would become an amazing memory when you go back and write it down in your travel journal.

1. Attend Festivals

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The names of these festivals may not be unique to but the style of their celebration definitely is. Dussehra, Pandav Leela, and Mahashivratri are some of the Hindu festivals that are celebrated with much fervour and zeal. There aren’t any special events that one could attend Dasara; however, Pandav Leela, Festivals at Tungnath, and Mahashivratri some of the festivals that are celebrated here. If you are here during these times, you could make time to take part in these festivals.

2. Explore Uttarakhand

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If you have more time on your hands and want to explore other beautiful places in Uttarakhand like Chopta, then you should add a few extra days to your itinerary. Known as the paradise of India, Uttarakhand has several other places to go to. Home for the mighty Himalayas also has lovely temples and spiritual centers to visit. Rudranath Temple, Kartik Swamy temple, and Kalimath are some of the must-visit religious places when you are here. However, you would need a lot of patience and

3. Rafting In Rishikesh

Of course, who would not love to cruise to experience the peak of wilderness? Most of the people love to raft, and Rishikesh is one of the best destinations to go rafting. You can take a detour to Rishikesh either on your way to Chopta or when you are headed downhill to the plains.

Places To Stay In Chopta

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There are a lot of stay options in Chopta, and most of the villages here have accommodation facilities at a budget for trekkers. One can either choose to stay in lodges or even tents according to their convenience and preference. Apart from these, there are also villas and resorts if you are planning for a luxurious trip to this place. Himalayan Eco Lodge and Forest Eco Resort are some of the great places to saty amidst nature. You could alsoenjoy camping at Mandakini Eco Tourist and Camping.

Restaurants & Cafes In Chopta

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When you are trekking, there would not be a lot of options but, once you are exploring the village or any other places, there is one restaurant that you can go to. Shivansh Cafe n Resto is one of the cafes in and around Chopta that you could visit for some snacks. Chicken sizzler and Pan Omelette are some of the must-eats when you are in this café. Apart from snacks, this place also has a lunch facility.

Things To Pack For Chopta Valley Trip

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You should pack these things with you if you are planning a trip to Chopta Valley. The layering of woolen clothes may differ from season to season.

Clothing & Footwear

Warm clothes
Thermals
Trekking shoes
Hiking sticks
Rain jackets
Neck warmers
Gloves
Socks
Woolen Cap

Toiletries & Essentials

Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Lip balms
Sun protection cream with high SPF
Moisturizer
A pair of goggles

Miscellaneous

First-aid kit
Energy bars

How To Reach Chopta Valley

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Via road

The best way to reach Chopta valley in Uttarakhand is to go via Delhi. One can choose to reach Delhi either by Bus, Train, or Flights as Delhi is well-connected by all the three modes. From Delhi, one must take a bus to Hrishikesh or Haridwar to reach Rudraprayag or Ukhimath. From here, the only option to travel is Taxi. Taxis are available in abundant from both these places.

Via train

The closest railway-station to Chopta valley in Uttarakhand is about 225km away in Haridwar. Trains to Haridwar are available from all the other major cities in India. Once the train reaches Haridwar taking taxis from Hrishikesh is the best option.

Via air

Taking a flight to Dehradun can be one of the best options too. From here, taking taxis or buses are the possible options. The airport is called Jolly Grant Airport, and it is located around 226km away from Chopta village.

Tips For Travelers Visiting Chopta Valley

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These handy tips will be useful to while planning your trip to CHopta Valley so that you can maximize the fun and have a pleasant experience.

Plan the trek accordingly according to the seasons that are convenient for you.
Get all the necessary things that are required for the trek
Carry an extra pair of clothes and shoes for safer side
Book the flight tickets well in advance
Research on accommodation and stay options
Prepare a plan on the budget thoroughly and also read some blogs to understand the trail
Prepare yourselves well before the trek by indulging in various kinds of physical activities that would make you ready for the trek.
Check if there are any special documents required at the check posts and carry them accordingly without fail.

Further Read: Shopping In Uttarakhand: 5 Souvenirs You Cannot Leave ‘Devbhoomi’ Without

Trekking to one of the places like Chopta Valley can be a dream to everyone because this is one of the most secluded places in Uttarakhand. For those who love being in the wilderness will really enjoy nature’s bounty and adrenaline rush from the trekking. Even for the snow-lovers, Chopta in winters can be a surreal experience. If you are thinking of taking a vacation to Uttarakhand , maybe you should go to Chopta Valley this time.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Chopta Valley Trek

Can anyone trek to Chopta valley?

Yes, anyone can trek to Chopta Valley, provided they are well-trained. There are lot of options for camping in Chopta that you may also try on your trip.

Do we have to carry warm clothes even during the summer?

Yes, because the temperature might drop down to lower degrees during the night!

Is there a direct flight to Chopta?

No, there are no direct flights to Chopta. You must take either buses or taxis from Ukhimath and Rishikesh to reach Chopta valley.

Are there some good eat-out options in Chopta?

Since it is a small and quaint village, there aren’t many options for going on a gastronomical tour.

Can we try any other treks during the Chopta valley trek?

Yes, one can also go to Chandrashila trek and Tungnath trek too.

Is fitness level mandatory for this trek?

Yes, a good level of fitness is a necessity for this trek, and also to prepare mentally is also mandatory.