The Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek is one of the most popular and rewarding treks in Uttarakhand, ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Standing at an altitude of 12,083 ft (3,680 m), the trek is famous for its 360° panoramic views of Himalayan giants such as Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Kedarnath Dome, and Kedar Peak.
The journey begins from Sari village (6,600 ft), leading to the pristine Deoriatal Lake (7,800 ft), a crystal-clear lake surrounded by dense forests. The still waters reflect the towering Chaukhamba massif, creating a postcard-perfect sight. The trail then continues through oak and rhododendron forests, home to Himalayan birds, wildflowers, and in spring, vibrant red rhododendron blooms.
The trek passes through Rohini Bugyal and Chopta, often called the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand,” before the final ascent to Chandrashila Summit (12,083 ft). The summit is also the site of the Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, adding a spiritual dimension to the adventure.
From the top, trekkers are rewarded with one of the finest Himalayan panoramas, with nearly the entire Garhwal and Kumaon ranges visible on a clear day.
Drive Distance: 190 km | Drive Duration: 7-8 hours approx. | Altitude: Sari Village – 2000m | Pick up point: ISBT, Dehradun.
Your journey begins early morning from Dehradun ISBT, where you’ll board the vehicle for a picturesque drive to Sari Village, the basecamp for the Deoriatal–Chandrashila trek.
The drive takes you through the sacred towns of Rishikesh, Devprayag, and Rudraprayag, tracing the path of the holy Ganga and Alaknanda rivers. As you ascend higher, the scenery transforms—lush green valleys, terraced fields, and dense forests welcome you to the Garhwal Himalayas.
By afternoon/evening, you’ll arrive at Sari (2,000 m), a quaint mountain village surrounded by oak and rhododendron forests. From here, the majestic Himalayan peaks occasionally peek through, giving you a glimpse of the beauty that awaits.
Settle into a guesthouse or campsite, enjoy a hot meal, and rest well to prepare for the trek ahead.
Trek Distance: 3.5 km approx. | Trek Duration: 2-3 hours approx. | Altitude: Deoriatal Lake – 2400 m. | GPS DATA
After an early breakfast at Sari Village, begin your trek towards the enchanting Deoriatal Lake. The trail is a steady ascent, weaving through dense rhododendron and oak forests, with occasional clearings that offer sweeping views of the valley below.
The climb, though short, is rewarding—each turn reveals charming village houses, terraced fields, and the distant snow peaks of the Chaukhamba massif.
Upon reaching Deoriatal (2,400 m), you’ll be greeted by the pristine emerald lake cradled amidst lush greenery. On a clear day, the lake offers a perfect reflection of Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, and other surrounding peaks, making it one of the most photogenic spots in the Himalayas.
Set up camp near the lake, soak in the tranquility, and enjoy the magical sunset painting the snow-capped peaks in golden hues. As night falls, stargazing here is a surreal experience with the clear Himalayan skies above.
Trek Distance: 10 km approx. | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours approx. | Drive Distance: 15 km | Drive Duration: 30-45 Min. approx. | Altitude: Tala Village– 2000 m. | Baniyakund- 2600 m. | GPS DATA
Wake up to the serene beauty of Deoriatal Lake, with the first rays of sunlight illuminating the Chaukhamba massif. After breakfast, begin the day’s long descent towards Tala Village. The trail initially retraces through dense oak and rhododendron forests, alive with the songs of Himalayan birds.
As you continue, the path undulates through charming meadows, hidden clearings, and traditional mountain settlements. The trek offers stunning panoramas of towering peaks like Kedar Dome, Chaukhamba, and Mt. Nilkantha at various points.
The descent requires steady footing as you pass through Rohini Bugyal—a beautiful alpine meadow dotted with wildflowers in spring and lush greenery in summer. From here, the trail gradually narrows into forested sections, eventually leading to the quaint Tala Village (2,000 m).
At Tala, vehicles will be waiting to drive you to Baniyakund (2,600 m), a scenic campsite surrounded by rolling meadows and forests. This will be your base for the upcoming Tungnath and Chandrashila summit trek. Relax, enjoy a warm dinner, and prepare for an exciting day ahead.
Drive Distance: 5 km (One way) | Drive Duration: 10 Min. approx. | Trek Distance: 9-10 km approx. (Both sides) | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours approx. | Altitude: Chopta – 2800m. | Tungnath – 3500m. | Chandrashila Top – 3690m. | GPS DATA
After an early breakfast at Baniyakund, a short drive (10 min) takes you to Chopta, fondly known as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand.” This marks the start of the most awaited day of the trek—an ascent to Tungnath Temple and the Chandrashila Summit.
The trail begins with a gradual but consistent climb through stone-paved pathways, surrounded by rhododendron and dwarf oak forests. As you gain altitude, the landscape opens into alpine meadows offering sweeping views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
After about 3–4 hours of steady trekking, you reach Tungnath Temple (3,500 m), the highest Shiva temple in the world. The spiritual aura of Tungnath, set against snow-draped peaks, is a surreal experience. Take time to explore the temple complex and absorb the divine atmosphere.
From Tungnath, a steeper climb of about 1–1.5 hours leads you to the Chandrashila Summit (3,690 m). The top offers one of the most spectacular 360° Himalayan panoramas—with prominent peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedar Dome, and Bandarpunch standing tall. This is the highlight of the trek, rewarding your effort with unforgettable mountain views.
After spending some time soaking in the vistas and capturing memories, retrace your steps back down to Chopta. A short drive takes you back to Baniyakund, where you can relax after this adventurous and spiritually fulfilling day.
Drive Distance: 210 km | Drive Duration: 8-9 hours approx. | Altitude: Dehradun – 600m | Drop point: ISBT, Dehradun.
After an early breakfast at Baniyakund, begin your return journey towards Dehradun. The drive takes you through the scenic mountain roads of Uttarakhand, with charming villages, river valleys, and terraced fields unfolding along the way.
You’ll descend gradually from the alpine setting of Chopta Valley into the lush lower Himalayan landscapes. The drive offers beautiful views of the Mandakini and Alaknanda river valleys, along with glimpses of traditional Garhwali culture and lifestyle in roadside hamlets.
Midway, you can take short breaks for tea or local snacks before continuing the journey. By evening, you’ll arrive at Dehradun (600 m), where the trek concludes.
Trekkers will be dropped at ISBT, Dehradun, making it convenient for onward travel to Delhi or other destinations. With backpacks full of memories and hearts full of Himalayan experiences, this marks the end of the Deoriatal–Chandrashila Trek.