Overview 

Explore the beautiful trails of the Garhwal Himalayas and experience the thrill and excitement. The beautiful trekking trails will lead you towards the beautiful summit. Located in Uttrakhand, the Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of this region’s most famous and challenging treks. Reaching up to 13,000 feet, you can enjoy stunning views from the top. Enjoy trekking on snow-covered trails and experience a wonderful camp stay. Capture some pictures with a beautiful backdrop. These lovely places will take you close to nature and give you a chance to create some unforgettable memories to cherish for a lifetime. The best part of the Chopta Chandrashila Trek is that you can have mesmerising views of some well-known peaks like Nandadevi, Bandarpoonch, Trisul, Chaukhamba Peak, and Kedar Peak. 

How To Reach The Start Point Of Trek 

By Air: The Nearest airport to Chopta is the Jolly Grant Airport located in Dehradun. The total distance between both places is 211 km which will take around 6-7 hours. From the airport, you can hire local transport to reach Sari Village. 

By Train: The nearest Railway station located to Chopta is in Haridwar which is connected to all the prime cities in India. From Haridwar Railway station, you can hire public transport to reach Sari Village, which serves as the base camp for Chandrashila Trek. 

By Road: You can reach Chopta easily from Haridwar to Chopta. The total distance is around 200 km and this journey will take around 8 hours to complete.

Itinerary For The Chopta Chandrashila Trek 

Day 1: Start Your Journey From Rishikesh To Sari Village 

Today you will drive from Rishikesh to Sari village, the starting point of the Chopta Chandrashila Trek. this village is located at an elevation of 2,000 m/ 6,550 feet. Today you will cover a distance of around 190 km which is going to take 7 to 8 hours. 

Day 2: Sari Village towards Deoriatal Lake (trek)

Your trekking journey will start from Sari Village towards the Deoriatal Lake located at an elevation of 2,400 m / 7,850 feet. The total trekking distance is 3 km and it will take 1 to 2 hours to reach. 

Day 3: Trek from Deoriatal Towards Baniyakund 

Have your breakfast and embark on the trek towards Baniyakund from Deoriatal Lake. This spot is located at an elevation of  8,550 feet. The total distance you will cover today is 16 km which will take about 8 hours.  

Day 4: Trek from Baniyakund to Chopta with Tunghnath and Chandrashila 

Today you will reach Chopta from Baniyakund and then from Chopta, you will trek towards Tungnath & Chandrashila. Tungnath is located at an elevation of 11,500 feet and the elevation of Chandrashilla top is 12,100 feet and then you will return. You will cover a distance of around 9 km and it will take 7 hours. 

Day 5: Departure 

Today is the last day of this beautiful journey and you will drive towards Rishikesh. The total distance of today’s drive will be 210 km and you will reach Rishikesh by 6:30 to 7:30 pm. 

The Best Time For Chopta Chandrashila Trek 

Before you start preparing for the Trek, it is important to know about the weather conditions in the Himalayas. The weather can be unpredictable and you should be prepared for any type of situation. During summer the temperature remains pleasant during the day but it can drop at night. If you go there in the winter, you will find landscapes and peaks covered in snow making this place even more beautiful. It is important to check the weather forecast and plan your trek accordingly. Therefore, spring is considered the best time for Chopta Chandrashila Trek. The pleasant weather makes it great for a trek offering breathtaking views from the summit. If you are fond of snow then you can plan your trek in winter. This region becomes a fairyland during this time and offers a unique experience of trekking in the snow. 

How Difficult is the Chopta Trek

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is a moderate to challenging level trek that requires good physical health. The total distance you will cover on this trek is around 10 km and it will take about 4 days to complete. You will achieve an altitude of 12,100 feet, and it can cause altitude sickness. While trekking you will come across steep ascents and descents, narrow trails, and rocky paths. It is advised to start physical preparation at least a month before the trek. You can choose the best time according to your suitability and experience level. If you want to have a safe and comfortable trek and camping experience you can go for spring or autumn. If you want a thrilling and challenging trek experience, winter season is best. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack all the essentials and be prepared for any situation.

Conclusion

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek in the Garhwal Himalayas is not just a physical journey. This journey is through beautiful landscapes, snow-covered trails, and majestic Himalayan Peaks. Experience camping under the blanket of stars surrounded by nature. You might face some challenges during the trek but the views of majestic snow-covered peaks are worth all the challenges you might face. So, don’t waste your time and get ready for the wonderful journey of a lifetime. Happy trekking!

Overview 

For all the adventure seekers looking for an ideal short Himalayan getaway, the Nag Tibba Trek Located in Uttrakhand is one of the most thrilling and easily accessible trek in India. Experience the beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas, and snow-covered landscapes, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the peaks nearby. Starting from Pantwari, a small village located near Mussoorie at an elevation of 4,650 feet you will achieve an elevation of 9,900 feet. During winters this place turns into a fairyland and creates a magical scenery with trees and trekking trails covered in snow. The Nag Tibba Summit offers panoramic views of a few well-known peaks like  Swargarohini, Gangotri Group, and Bandarpoonch. The dense forest, majestic mountains, and landscapes create a perfect setting for photographers. 

Highlights of the Nag Tibba Trek

1. Breathtaking views of mountains

The Nag Tibba summit offers great 360-degree views of a few well-known peaks including Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, Gangotri, Srikantha, and Swargarohini. Along with these, you will also get to see Changbang, Kedarnath Peak, and Doon Valley. 

2. Nag Tibba Temple 

During the trek, you will get to visit the Nag Tibba Temple known for its cultural and religious significance. This temple is dedicated to the god Nag Devta and the surroundings and architecture will give your journey a spiritual touch. 

3. Snow Camping

Experience the unique and exhilarating camping in the snow and admire the beauty of the surroundings. Spend a night beneath clear night skies and a calm atmosphere amidst mountains. 

Itinerary for The Nag Tibba Trek 

Day 1: Pantawari village from Dehradun (drive) and trek towards the 1st campsite

• Today you will drive towards the Pantawari Village at an elevation of 4,650 feet. The total distance of this drive will be around 85 kilometers and it will take 5-6 hours. 
• From Pantawari, your trek towards the first campsite of the Nag Tibba trek will begin.
• The total distance you will cover on this trek towards the campsite from the start point is around 4 Km and it will take around 3 hours to complete the trek.

Day 2: Campsite 1 to Nag Tibba Summit (trek) and trek back to Pantawari for departure

• Today you will resume your trek from the first campsite at a height of 4,650 feet towards the Nag Tibba summit at an elevation of 9,900 feet. 
• The total distance of this trek will be around 4 km and it will take 3-4 hours. 
• After reaching the top of the summit you can enjoy the stunning views of the surroundings and start trekking back towards the first campsite.
• You can have lunch and rest at the campsite before starting the trek again. 
• Resume your trek journey from the campsite towards Pantawari. 
• You will reach Pantawari by 3 pm and then drive towards Dehradun with a bag full of memories. 

Best Time For the Nag Tibba Trek 

The most suitable months for the Nag Tibba trek are Between March and April (spring) and December and February (winter). The weather during these months is ideal and pleasant for trekking, offering clear skies and a favourable temperature. 

Nag Tibba Trek In Spring 

Between March and April, the temperature ranges between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius during the day and it drops to 10 to 5 degrees at night. This time is great for a safe and comfortable trek experience because the trails are not muddy, making it suitable for kids, families, and beginners. You can also witness blooming flora including rhododendrons, and other wildflowers or admire the views of well-known peaks. 

Nag Tibba in Winter 

December to February are the winter months and the temperature ranges between 5 to 10 degrees during the day which drops to -5 degrees at night. The weather at higher altitudes is cold during winters and you will find trails whitewashed in snow. It can be physically challenging to trek in snow but it is interesting for trekkers. Enjoy your journey through snow-covered landscapes and soak in the eye-pleasing views. Trekking during the winter offers a very magical experience for all nature and snow lovers. The presence of snow makes the trek experience thrilling and you will be amazed by the scenic views of the Himalayas. 

Difficulty Level of the Nag Tibba Trek 

Rated as a moderate-level trek, the Nag Tibba Trek is suitable for novice and experienced level trekkers. The trails are well-marked and there is no need for any technical trekking skills, making it an easily accessible trek offering stunning sights. You just need to be physically fit for the trek and for this, it is advised to start preparing at least a month before the trek. 

FAQ’s 

Q1. From where does the Nag Tibba Trek start?

The starting point of Nag Tibba Trek is Pantawari Village. 

Q2. How many days are required for the Nag Tibba Trek?

The Nag Tibba Trek is perfect for people looking for a short Himalayan Getaway. This trek can be done in 2 nights and 3 days. 

Q3. Why is Nag Tibba Trek famous?

The Nag tibba Trek is famous for its scenic beauty which lies in the lush forests, scene trails, and the panoramic views of famous peaks from the summit. 

Q4. What is the total height of Nag Tibba?

The total height of Nag Tibba is around 9,900 feet and you will start trekking from a height of  4,650 feet.

Conclusion 

That’s all about the Nag Tibba Trek. If you are a nature lover or just someone who wants to experience the thrill of trekking in snow, this trek is a must-do. With the scenic beauty of landscapes, whitewashed trails, and famous peaks this trek has it all. The journey to Nag Tibba promises a bag full of unforgettable memories to cherish forever. So, don’t waste your time and embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure now. Have a safe journey! 

Are you heading to the Kedarkantha trek in the winter season? Then, you must know how to carry on the Kedarkantha trek for a smooth trip. This blog talks about what important trekking gear, equipment, tips, and essentials you need. Before we talk about things to take, let’s explore what the Kedarkantha trek is. 

The Kedarkantha trek is probably the best winter trek in India. It is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. It is a beautiful adventure as you are exposed to views of alpine forests and snow-capped mountain peaks. The trek to Kedarkantha starts from Sankri and ends at the summit, Kedarkantha peak, at a height of 12,500 ft. The views from the Kedarkantha trek are impressive. You enjoy views like Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, Swargarohini, and more simply mesmerizing. 

Why do you need to know what things to carry to the Kedarkantha trek?

Since you will trek in the winter, it is necessary to properly plan, pack, and prepare for the trek. It is so necessary to have the right gear, footwear, clothing, accessories, and more essentials. All these ensure your trek is comfortable and safe. Our guide is an ideal checklist for both novice and experienced trekkers.

Things to carry on the Kedarkantha trek 

Valid ID Cards

A mandatory thing to carry is your ID card and its photocopy. If you are an Indian resident, carrying an Adhar card and PAN card is enough. For NRIs and international tourists, carrying a passport is mandatory. Keep them secured from pickpockets.

Backpack or Rucksack

An essential thing to carry on the Kedarkantha trek is a sturdy backpack. A branded backpack big enough to hold 60-70 liters of items is the best thing to have. Also, it has a good hip belt. That helps to transfer the weight of the hips. Also, it should have an expandable collar, a ventilated back panel, and adjustable straps. Lastly, ensure it is waterproof because you might experience rainfall during your trek.

Trekking shoes

Sturdy trekking shoes, which are also waterproof, are another must-have for the Kedarkantha trek. It should have good ankle support and a sturdy build. If the shoes have a high-ankle collar, it would be best, as it provides extra support, preventing debris from entering the shoe. A pro tip is to wear the shoes before the trek to break into it. Do not go for low-quality brands; renting is also an option.

Trekking poles

A non-negotiable is carrying a trekking pole as you trek to the Kedarkantha trek in the winter. It improves your stability while decreasing the strain you put on the knees. You can go for aluminum trekking poles, which are lightweight, offering versatility for downhill and uphill sections. They make hiking easier as it distributes the load from your knees to your arms and shoulders. Other things to see when buying the trekking poles include:

• Adjustable wrist straps
• Anti-shock features
• Comfort grips.

Headlamp

A headlamp is a necessary addition to your camping gear. It helps because it frees your hand when you are changing clothes or cooking. There are many brands, but you want one that has distinct lighting modes. Also, it should have a red light mode, preserving the night vision. 

Sunglasses and sunscreen

Irrespective of the trek being in winters, you should worry about protecting yourself from UV rays, which are still present. So, carry sunglasses and sunscreen with you. Go for UV-protection glasses, and it should fit you well over the prescription glasses. Moreover, carry good sunscreen and put it on regardless of the weather. 

First-aid kit

Another non-negotiable thing to add in your essentials is a first-aid kit. It should have antiseptic creams, pain relief sprays and gels, bandages, cotton, medical tape, hand sanitizer, and disposable gloves. Prescription medicines and medications for general things like headaches, stomachaches, nausea, and more. If you are new to trekking and do not know how to create a first-aid kit, renting one is a good idea. You will find it in the camping area. Just remember to replenish anything you have used. 

Day- Pack

Have a compact daypack to carry essentials during day hikes or summit attempts. These bags should also have side pouches to keep water bottles and even front stash pockets. 

Camping slippers

Camping slippers are a good luxury to have, which makes your camping a comfortable affair. The slippers you get are lightweight, quick-drying, with a rugged sole and having a tread to give you enough grip.

Balaclava

A balaclava protects your neck, face, and head from the cold sunburn, frostbite, and winds. Merino wool balaclavas are impressive because of their wool insulates even if they are wet. Go with one that covers any exposed areas. 

Thermal Innerwear

Synthetic or woolen thermal inners can trap body heat and ensure you do not feel sweaty, keeping you dry and warm all day. You should wear them next to the skin under other clothes. Do not get cotton thermals, as they do not soak up sweat. The inner top should have a close-neck design and long sleeves. The bottom you wear should be full-length or ankle-length leggings. 

Fleece Jackets

A fleece jacket traps air and provides excellent warmth and insulation. It is not waterproof, but it dries quickly when wet. So, choose a fleece jacket from Thermolite that is 200-300 grams in weight. You can wear this over base layers or under a rain jacket. 

Trekking pants

It is best to go with trekking pants because they are quick-drying, light-weight, and abrasion-resistant. They use soft shell fabric and should have features like durable fabric, gusseted crotch, or UPF rating. With trekking pants, you are able to move easily. When buying, ensure to check its fitting properly, so try squatting, sitting, or even stretching. 

Reusable cutlery

It is also better to carry a reusable fork, spoon, or insulated mug. It will help you avoid creating trash. Just ensure the cutlery you carry is durable and lightweight. 

Biodegradable toiletries

It is also necessary to carry travel-sized toiletries for sanitation and bathing. You will need small soaps, sunscreen, toothpaste tablets, and more. Go for biodegradable, eco-friendly options that will not pollute the water bodies. Mini packs of shampoos, wet wipes, and soaps are ideal for a short trek. If you rent them, they should be in proper condition.

Waterproof gloves

The winter season is cold and harsh in the region. So, one of the essential things to carry to the Kedarkantha trek is waterproof gloves.

Conclusion

A trek to Kedarkantha is a beautiful adventure. The solitude and serene views make for a beautiful getaway. So, if you want to enjoy your Kedarkantha trek in winter beautifully, ensure you do not forget to carry all these essential things. 

Uttarakhand is famous for its natural beauty, adventure sports, and historical background. Most tourists also visit here because of the Hindu temple. Uttarakhand is also known as the land of god as almost all the deities had spent some of the best time of their life in this region. Although it has numerous temples spread evenly throughout the state, today, we will discuss some of the most famous temples of Uttarakhand.  Uttarakhand’s most famous temples are Kedarnath Temple, Badrinath Temple, Gangotri and Yamunotri Temple, Dhari Devi Temple, Triyuginarayan Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, and others. People most love Uttrakhand because of his natural beauty. And explore nature, beauty, mountain views, and much more. Visit here for your full enjoyment.

1. Kedarnath temple

The Kedarnath temple is the most famous in Uttarakhand. Whoever loves the god Shiva is also aware of the Kedarnath temple. Kedarnath is at an altitude of 3583 meters in the lap of the Himalayan ranges in Rudraprayag District. The temple is crouched by snow-capped mountain peaks and surrounded by the meandering Mandakini River all around the temple. Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and one of the Do Dham Yatra and Char Dham Yatra. It is a dream destination for many people of all ages from all over the globe. Every year, millions of pilgrims visit this place to seek lord shiva’s blessings and admire this location’s beauty.

2. Badrinath Temple

Badrinath Temple is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges on the bank of the Alaknanda River. Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known as the temple of satyuga. As per the holy scriptures, the origin of this temple is from the Vedic period, but later on, it was captured by Buddhists during the regime of Ashoka and transformed into a Buddhist monastery. In the 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya re-established this temple as a Hindu pilgrimage site.

In addition to being a famous pilgrimage site, Badrinath Temple offers natural beauty and an iconic view—those seeking the blessing of Lord Vishnu with natural beauty can visit here.

3. Gangotri Temple

Gangotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, one of the most prominent temples in the Char Dham Yatra circuit. The temple is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3200 meters above sea level in the lap of the Himalayas. The temple remains open from May to November due to heavy snowfall, which covers this region and remains inaccessible to the general public.

Every year, it attracts millions of devotees seeking spiritual purification. You can also visit here to seek the blessings of Maa Ganga and admire the beauty of the surroundings.

4. Yamunotri Temple

Yamunotri Temple is located in Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand at 3293 meters above sea level. It is located at the origin of one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism, i.e, Maa Yamuna, and hence it got its name as Yamunotri temple.

According to mythology, the temple has its roots in the myth that the goddess Yamuna was born at the place to purify sinners. The temple of Yamunotri is devoted to the goddess Yamuna. On the journey to Char Dham Yatra, we generally start at the Yamunotri temple. So visit this temple to seek the blessings of maa Yamuna.

5. Dhari Devi Temple

Dhari Devi Temple is one of the most famous temples on the Char Dham route and is considered the protector god of the Char Dham temples. The temple is approximately 1,700 meters above sea level and is regarded as one of the holiest abode of Maa Kali, located along the bank of the Alaknanda River. In this temple, the upper body part of Maa Kali is being worshipped. The lower body part is believed to be worshipped in Kalimath temple near Guptkashi. It has been an important pilgrimage center for devotees to receive blessings and spiritual solace. A fair is celebrated annually in the region and is famous as the ‘Dhari Devi Fair.’

6. Triyuginarayan Temple

It was also helpful to know that this place is considered one of the locations where Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati. It is also known as the Ahand Dhuni temple due to the perpetual fire burning in the compound of this temple, which is believed to have lived since the marriage ceremony of the deities.

It is located in Rudraprayag District, at an altitude of 1,980 meters (6,496 feet). It is situated in the panoramic valleys close to Kedarnath. You can also visit this temple during the Kedarnath tour. The best time to visit here is from April to June. These are the months when the weather is usually good.

8. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, a famous pilgrimage site in the Indian state of Uttarakhand near Rishikesh, is associated with Lord Shiva. Built in the lap of a Himalayan forest, it is renowned for its spiritual and peaceful environment. It is said that, during the process of churning the ocean, poison was produced, which was detrimental to everyone. And Lord Shiva consumed it, and his throat turned blue, hence the name Neelkanth. And if you love God, Shiva can also visit the Neelkanth Mahadev temple. The temple attracts people who seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

9. Ukhimath Temple

Ukhimath Temple is one of the most famous religious places in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, especially among the devotees of Lord Shiva. This temple is located at a height of 1,317 meters (4,320 feet) above sea level and acts as the winter sanctuary of the Kedarnath deity, as the temple remains closed in winter due to snowfall. The temple, situated in the lap of the Himalayas, offers a peaceful place for prayers and meditation. Also, visit here; it is the best place to enjoy and receive Lord Shiva’s blessings.

10. Madhyamaheshwar Temple

Last but not least, Madhyamaheshwar Temple is another gem of Uttarakhand located in Rudraprayag District. It is the most famous temple known for its pristine natural beauty. Madhyamaheshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Madhyamaheshwar is one of the five Kedars, the shrines of Lord Shiva located throughout the country. The temple is believed to have been constructed at the very spot where Lord Shiva emerged out of ‘Madhya,’ which is the middle part of His divine body; thus, the name ‘Madhy’ places it indispensably in the salvation map of the Lord for the faithful. If you plan a trip, you can also visit here.

Conclusion

Unlike other shrines, these ten temples are spiritual, historical, and ethnographic landmarks and unique natural wonders inherent in Uttarakhand. The legend, architecture, and religious importance of each temple are different. Travelling to places of devotion equals proper pilgrimage and spiritual transformation, just as visiting the incredible Himalayas does. If solitude, spirituality, or even the hopes of linking to the world’s oldest religions are sought, then the temples of Uttarakhand leave one with a life and a relic of something extraordinary.