Tungnath and Deoria Tal Trek Overview
Location: Uttarakhand, India
- Tungnath Temple: 12,073 feet (3,680 meters)
- Chandrashila Summit: 13,123 feet (4,000 meters)
- Deoria Tal: 7,999 feet (2,438 meters)
Trek Duration: 4 days
Trek Distance: ~18-20 kilometers
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
Starting Point: Sari Village
Highlights of the Tungnath and Deoria Tal Trek
- Tungnath Temple: The highest Shiva temple in the world, Tungnath is a significant pilgrimage site and offers a spiritual experience amidst the Himalayas.
- Chandrashila Summit: The trek extends to Chandrashila, a peak that provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch, and Chaukhamba.
- Deoria Tal: A pristine high-altitude lake surrounded by forests, Deoria Tal reflects the majestic Chaukhamba peaks on clear days, making it a photographer’s paradise.
- Breathtaking Views: The trek is known for its stunning views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and dense forests of oak and rhododendron.
- Rich Flora and Fauna: The region is home to diverse flora and fauna, making the trek an enriching experience for nature lovers.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Sari Village and Trek to Deoria Tal (7,999 ft)
- Travel: 200 km drive from Rishikesh (~7-8 hours)
- Trek Distance: 2.3 km (~1.5-2 hours)
- Accommodation: Camping at Deoria Tal
- Route: A short and scenic uphill trek from Sari Village to Deoria Tal through lush forests.
- Highlights: The picturesque Deoria Tal, with stunning reflections of the Chaukhamba peaks.
Day 2: Deoria Tal to Chopta (8,790 ft)
- Trek Distance: 14 km drive
- Accommodation: Guesthouse or Camping in Chopta
- Route: Drive to Chopta, the base for the Tungnath and Chandrashila trek.
- Highlights: Explore the beauty of Chopta, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” with meadows and breathtaking views.
Day 3: Trek to Tungnath Temple (12,073 ft) and Chandrashila Summit (13,123 ft)
- Trek Distance: 5 km (~3-4 hours to Tungnath, 1.5 km further to Chandrashila)
- Accommodation: Return to Chopta for the night
- Route: Begin the trek from Chopta with a steep ascent to Tungnath Temple. From Tungnath, trek further to reach the Chandrashila Summit.
- Highlights: The spiritual ambiance of Tungnath Temple and the panoramic views from Chandrashila Summit, encompassing some of the highest Himalayan peaks.
Day 4: Chopta to Sari Village and Departure
- Travel: Drive back to Sari Village and then onward journey to Rishikesh
- Highlights: Enjoy the serene environment of Chopta before descending to Sari Village and reflecting on the trek experience.
Cost Estimate
- Trek Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per person (varies depending on the trekking company and inclusions).
- Inclusions: Accommodation, meals, permits, guide and support staff, and transport from Rishikesh to Sari Village and back.
- Exclusions: Personal expenses, travel insurance, and any costs not mentioned in the package.
Safety Tips
- Acclimatization: Even though the trek is not very high, proper acclimatization is advisable.
- Weather Awareness: Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially when approaching Chandrashila Summit.
- Trekking Gear: Use proper trekking shoes, carry warm clothing, and bring essentials like a headlamp, trekking poles, and a rain cover.
- Hydration: Carry sufficient water and stay hydrated throughout the trek.
- Health Precautions: Bring a basic first aid kit and any necessary personal medications.
- Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance that covers trekking activities.
Difficulty Level
The Tungnath and Deoria Tal Trek is classified as Easy to Moderate. It’s a suitable trek for beginners and offers a good balance of spiritual, cultural, and natural experiences. The trails are well-defined, and the elevation gain is gradual, making it accessible for most trekkers. The added trek to Chandrashila requires some physical effort due to the steep ascent, but the stunning views from the summit make it worth the climb.