DEORIATAL–CHANDRASHILA Trek – Uttarakhand

Deoriatal–Chandrashila is one of India’s best short Himalayan treks. It combines a reflective alpine lake, dense oak–rhododendron forests, the highest Shiva temple, and the panoramic Chandrashila Summit.

UTTARAKHAND TREKS

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Deorital Chandrashila Trek Guide | Himtrip
Deorital Chandrashila Trek Guide | Himtrip

🌄 DEORIATAL–CHANDRASHILA TREK – UTTARAKHAND

Region: Sari → Deoriatal → Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate

Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights

Max Altitude: ~3,680m

Price From: ₹4,500

Short Overview

Deoriatal–Chandrashila is one of India’s best short Himalayan treks. It combines a reflective alpine lake (Deoriatal), dense oak–rhododendron forests, the highest Shiva temple (Tungnath), and the panoramic Chandrashila Summit, offering unmatched 360° views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath Dome, Trishul, and more.

Perfect for beginners, families, weekend trekkers, and anyone wanting a high-reward trek without long days.

1. Difficulty Breakdown

Overall Difficulty: Easy–Moderate

Suitable for first-time trekkers with basic fitness.

Why It’s Easy–Moderate

  • Short walking distances

  • Well-marked trails

  • One steep section on summit day

Trail Type

  • Forest trail

  • Stone-paved pilgrim route

  • Ridge climb to summit

Daily Distance

  • 3–8 km per day

Fitness Requirements

  • Comfortable walking 3–5 hours/day

  • Mild altitude exposure

2. Full Itinerary (Day-Wise)

DAY 1 — Rishikesh → Sari → Deoriatal

  • 6–7 hr scenic drive to Sari

  • Trek 1.5–2 hr to Deoriatal Lake

  • Stunning reflection of Chaukhamba peak

  • Overnight stay near Deoriatal

DAY 2 — Deoriatal → Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Chopta

  • Drive/trek to Chopta (depending on route used)

  • Trek to Tungnath Temple (3,680m)

  • Final ridge ascent to Chandrashila Summit

  • 360° Himalayan panorama: Nanda Devi, Kedarnath Dome, Trishul, Chaukhamba

  • Return to Chopta for night stay

  • Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs

DAY 3 — Chopta → Rishikesh

  • Return drive

  • Trek ends

3. Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

  • Camping / guesthouse stay

  • All meals during trek

  • Trek leader + support crew

  • Forest entry & permits

Exclusions

  • Transport to/from Rishikesh

  • Personal gear rental

  • Porter/mule services

  • Anything not mentioned

4. How to Reach

Base Hub: Rishikesh

Route:
Rishikesh → Sari → Deoriatal → Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila → Chopta → Rishikesh

Transport Options:

  • Shared jeeps

  • Private taxis

  • Bus to Ukhimath + cab to Sari

5. Stay & Food

Stay

  • Sari/Deoriatal: Camp

  • Chopta: Guesthouse / Camp

Food

  • Hot vegetarian meals

  • Tea/snacks

  • Packed lunch on summit day

6. Weather & Safety

Weather

  • Oct–Jan: Crystal-clear views

  • Dec–Mar: Snow trek conditions

  • Apr–Jun: Rhododendron bloom

Safety

  • Snow sections in winter may require microspikes

  • Guides ensure safe summit ascent

  • Easy trail for beginners

7. Best Time

  • October to June

  • December–March for snow lovers

8. Packing List

Mandatory

  • Trekking shoes

  • Warm layers (especially in winter)

  • Padded jacket

  • Gloves + beanie

  • Rain jacket

  • Water bottle

  • Headlamp

Optional

  • Gaiters (snow season)

  • Sunglasses

  • Power bank

9. FAQs

Q. Can beginners do this trek?
Yes — highly recommended for first-timers.

Q. Does Chandrashila always have snow?
In winter (Dec–Mar), yes. Other months vary.

Q. Mobile network available?
BSNL/Idea may work in Sari; none on trek.

Q. How hard is summit day?
Short but steep — manageable with breaks.

Want a short Himalayan trek with massive summit views?