A beautiful hamlet, nestled in Rudraprayag in the serene state of Uttarakhand, Chopta is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure junkies. Labeled as the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”, Chopta is the epicenter for the Panch Kedar temples and is the base camp for several treks. Chopta is renowned for its gorgeous meadows. Pitch your tent or rent one for a night and enjoy gazing at stars and bonfires for an impeccable experience. Here are some astounding places to explore for a fantastic vacation-

1. Tungnath Temple

Pay a visit to the highest Shiva temple in the world, Tungnath temple located amongst the massive mountains of Tungnath in the beautiful Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. The temple is one of the Panch Kedars. One needs to trek to reach Tungnath temple which is considered one of the easiest treks. This temple opens when the Chardham of Uttarakhand is opened during April or May every year. The temple remains closed during the winter months after Diwali.

2. Deori Tal

Another amazing place to visit is the Deori Tal located on the Ukhimath-Gopeshwar road. One needs to commence a 3km trek from Saari village to reach this pristine lake situated at a height of 7999 ft. Capture the jaw-dropping views of the surrounding lush green forests, and the mighty Himalayan ranges of the Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, Bandarpunch, Kedarnath, and Kalanag. 

3. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary

A conservation center for the Himalayan Musk Deer, Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary is located at a distance of 7 km from Chopta. It is a protected forest and is spread over a 6 sq km area and is full of musk deer. The sanctuary forms a part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Spot deer and the beautiful Himalayan birds.

4. Ukhimath

Also known as winter Kedarnath, Ukhimath is renowned for housing Lord Shiva temple and houses Lord Shiva in winter when Kedarnath is shut down. Ukhimath is indeed a tranquil hill station and offers the alluring scenery of the Himalayas. Ukhimath is a religious town drenched in spirituality. The Ukhimath temple is located at a distance of almost 30 km from the beautiful valley of Chopta. Capture some fantabulous views of the Himalayan peaks that are covered in snow from here.

5. Baniyakund

Baniyakund is truly a nature lover’s paradise. It is only 4 km before Chopta and is located at the very beginning of the Kedarnath Musk deer sanctuary. It is 2450m above sea level. It is a small village that has several accommodation options for trekkers. Most of the trekkers choose these places as their base camp during the trek to Chopta and also to Chandrashila.

6. Rohini Bugyal

One of the fantastic spots for camping is Rohini Bugyal, which is a beautiful meadow in Chopta. One needs to commence a 7-hour trek to reach Rohini Bugyal. The trek is of a moderate level and takes one through dense forests of Oak trees, Rhododendrons, and deodar. Capture the alluring views of the Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Kedarnath peaks from here. Witness the mesmerizing views of the meadow during the summers when the Rhododendron flowers are in full bloom.

7. Chandrashila

Chandrashila is the summit of the mountains where the revered Tungnath temple and Chopta are situated. Chandrashila is perched at an altitude of 4000m above sea level. Capture the jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the Himalayan peaks including Kedar, Nandadevi, Chaukhamba, and Trishil peak from Chandrashila. As per the legends, Chandrashila is the place where lord Ram meditated after defeating Ravana. Pay a visit to the revered devoted to goddess Ganga atop Chandrashila. One needs to trek to reach Chandrashila.

8. Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple

The revered Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev temple is located in Deoria Tal. This temple is devoted to Nag Devta. Renowned for its unique architecture designed like the iconic temples of Uttarakhand. You will get to hear several mythological stories once you visit this temple.

9. Sari Village

Also known as Saari Gaon, one of the famous places to visit in Chopta. The village is located in the Rudraprayag region near Ukhimath. Sari Village is the base camp for Deoria Lake and is located at an altitude of 7800ft. Capture the alluring views of the surroundings which are worth capturing.