The Deoriatal Chandrashila Tungnath Trek is one of the most popular Himalayan trekking routes in Uttarakhand, combining a peaceful alpine lake, forest trails, the ancient Tungnath Temple and the high-altitude Chandrashila Summit. The trek passes through Sari Village, Deoriatal, Rohini Bugyal, Syalmi, Baniya Kund and Chopta before reaching Tungnath and Chandrashila.
The highest point of the trek is approximately 3,683 metres (12,083 feet) according to Uttarakhand Tourism's dedicated Deoriatal–Chandrashila trek information. Some other tourism pages round the altitude of Chandrashila to around 4,000 metres, so using the dedicated trek figure is preferable for trip planning.
The trek can be completed in different durations depending on the itinerary. Uttarakhand Tourism lists a four-day trekking itinerary, while Rishikesh-based itineraries and organised trekking programmes may take around six days.
Quick Overview of the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek
Before planning the journey, understand the basic route and terrain. The classic route is:
Sari → Deoriatal → Rohini Bugyal → Syalmi → Baniya Kund → Chopta → Tungnath → Chandrashila
Uttarakhand Tourism lists the trek at approximately 33 km, with a highest altitude of 3,683 metres. Current organised trekking itineraries may show around 32 km because distance calculations vary according to the exact trail, campsites and itinerary used.
The trek is generally considered easy to moderate to moderate, but the final climb from Tungnath to Chandrashila is considerably steeper than the earlier sections. Snow and icy conditions can make the same route substantially more demanding in winter.
Where Does the Trek Start?
The trek generally starts from Sari Village, which is the roadhead for Deoriatal. Sari is accessible by road from Rishikesh/Haridwar and other parts of Uttarakhand.
The road journey from Rishikesh to Sari commonly takes around 7–8 hours, although actual travel time depends on road conditions, traffic, weather and stops. Therefore, it is better to keep sufficient buffer rather than planning an exact arrival time.
If travelling independently, reaching Sari a day before starting the trek is useful because it reduces the risk of beginning the trail immediately after a long mountain drive.
Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek Route
Sari to Deoriatal
The first trekking section climbs from Sari to Deoriatal, a scenic lake surrounded by Himalayan forests.
Official Uttarakhand Tourism information gives the distance as approximately 3 km and trekking time of around 1–2 hours. Current trekking itineraries may measure the trail at about 4 km and take longer depending on the exact starting point and walking pace.
The trail is comparatively short but includes a steady uphill climb. Deoriatal is also known for mountain views and is an important stop on the combined trek.
Deoriatal to Syalmi
From Deoriatal, the trail continues through forest and meadow sections towards Rohini Bugyal and Syalmi.
This section is longer and requires more sustained walking than the first day. Uttarakhand Tourism lists approximately 10 km and 6–7 hours for the Deoriatal–Syalmi section.
The landscape gradually changes from forested terrain to open meadow sections, with views becoming more expansive in clear weather.
Syalmi to Baniya Kund and Chopta
The next section takes trekkers towards Baniya Kund, near Chopta. The route passes through forest and meadow terrain and can become slippery during rain or snow.
Different trekking itineraries divide this section differently. For planning purposes, it is better to follow the exact campsite sequence provided by your trekking operator rather than relying only on a generic kilometre figure.
Chopta is an important road-access point and is also the starting point for trekkers doing only the Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila Trek.
Chopta to Tungnath
The trail from Chopta to Tungnath is a steady uphill walk. Official Uttarakhand sources give slightly different distance figures, around 3–4 km, depending on the source and route measurement.
Tungnath is situated at approximately 3,680 metres according to Uttarakhand Tourism's Panch Kedar information.
The trail is clearly defined during the normal trekking season, but winter snow can cover portions of the route.
Tungnath to Chandrashila Summit
The final section is the most demanding part of the trek.
The distance from Tungnath to Chandrashila is approximately 1.5 km, but the short distance should not be mistaken for an easy walk. The trail becomes steep and the altitude increases rapidly.
In winter, snow and ice can cover the trail. Depending on current conditions, traction equipment such as microspikes may be useful, while an ice axe should only be considered when conditions and the route require it and when the trekker knows how to use it.
The summit provides panoramic Himalayan views in clear weather.
How Many Days Are Needed?
There is no single fixed duration for the Deoriatal Chandrashila Tungnath Trek.
Uttarakhand Tourism's dedicated trek information describes a 4-day itinerary, while other itineraries that include transportation from Rishikesh and additional acclimatisation or overnight stops can take around 6 days.
For most travellers, a practical plan is to keep additional time for road travel and weather delays rather than trying to complete every section as quickly as possible.
Suggested 6-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Rishikesh to Sari
Drive from Rishikesh towards Sari Village. Depending on the arrival time, stay overnight in Sari and prepare for the trek.
Day 2: Sari to Deoriatal
Start the trek from Sari and walk to Deoriatal. Spend the evening around the lake and rest for the next day's longer walk.
Check current accommodation and camping rules before planning an overnight stay at or around Deoriatal, as designated camping arrangements and local restrictions can change.
Day 3: Deoriatal to Syalmi
Continue through forest and meadow terrain towards Syalmi. This is a longer trekking day, so start early and carry sufficient water.
Day 4: Syalmi to Baniya Kund/Chopta
Continue towards Baniya Kund and the Chopta area. The exact overnight location depends on the itinerary being followed.
Day 5: Chopta to Tungnath and Chandrashila
Start early for Tungnath and continue towards Chandrashila. The final climb is steep, and winter conditions can slow the ascent considerably.
After completing the summit section, return according to your planned overnight arrangement.
Day 6: Return Journey
Descend to the roadhead and continue towards Rishikesh or your next destination.
A shorter itinerary is possible, but the exact number of days depends on transport arrangements, campsites, weather and whether Deoriatal is included.
Best Time to Visit Deoriatal Chandrashila
The trek can be approached in different seasons, but the experience changes considerably throughout the year.
Spring: March to April
Spring is particularly attractive for trekkers interested in rhododendron forests and pleasant trekking conditions. Snow may still remain on higher sections, especially after winter weather.
Summer: May to June
The weather is generally suitable for trekking, although conditions can change quickly in the mountains. This period also provides good opportunities for Himalayan views when skies are clear.
Tungnath Temple's opening dates vary from year to year according to the temple calendar. Therefore, travellers planning specifically to visit the temple should check the latest announcement before travelling.
Monsoon: July to September
Heavy rain can affect mountain roads and trekking trails. Slippery sections, landslides and reduced visibility can make travel more complicated.
If travelling during the monsoon, keep extra buffer days for road delays.
Autumn: October to November
Post-monsoon conditions can provide clearer Himalayan views and relatively stable trekking weather. Temperatures drop considerably at night, particularly at higher elevations.
Winter: December to February
Winter transforms the route into a snow trek in suitable conditions. The higher trail can be covered by snow, and the Chandrashila section becomes significantly more demanding.
Uttarakhand Tourism specifically notes that the winter trail can become buried in snow. Current trekking guidance also recommends appropriate traction and winter equipment according to prevailing conditions.
Do not assume that the trail will have the same snow conditions every winter. Check the latest local and operator reports before departure.
Tungnath Temple in Winter
Tungnath is one of the Panch Kedar temples and an important religious destination along the trek.
During winter, worship associated with Tungnath is performed at Makkumath, according to the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee.
Because temple opening and closing dates can vary annually, verify the official temple schedule if your trip is specifically planned around darshan.
Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek Difficulty
The trek is often described as easy to moderate or moderate, but difficulty depends heavily on season.
The lower sections involve forest trails, gradual climbs and meadow walking. The final climb to Chandrashila is steeper, and altitude becomes an important factor.
Winter can increase difficulty because of:
Snow-covered trails
Icy surfaces
Lower temperatures
Shorter daylight
Reduced walking speed
Poor visibility during snowfall
Fitness preparation should therefore include regular walking, stair climbing and cardiovascular exercise before the trek.
What to Pack
Your packing list should change according to the season.
For a normal-season trek, carry:
Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip
Warm layers
Fleece or insulated jacket
Waterproof outer layer
Trekking trousers
Woollen socks
Gloves and cap
Sunglasses
Sunscreen and lip balm
Personal medicines
Headlamp
Reusable water bottle
Basic first-aid supplies
Power bank
Identification documents
Small backpack/daypack
For winter, add suitable thermal layers, heavier insulation, waterproof gloves, gaiters and appropriate snow traction equipment.
Avoid carrying unnecessary weight. A well-organised backpack is especially important on longer sections such as Deoriatal to Syalmi.
Food, Water and Accommodation
Accommodation options vary by village, campsite and season. Sari and Chopta have accommodation facilities, while organised trekking itineraries generally arrange designated camps or stays along the route.
Do not assume that every location will have reliable food, electricity or mobile connectivity.
Carry enough drinking water for each section and use safe drinking-water sources or appropriate treatment methods where necessary.
Before departure, confirm what is included in your trek package—meals, accommodation, transport, permits, equipment, guide support and insurance can differ considerably between operators.
Permits and Local Rules
The trek passes through forest and protected-area landscapes, so registration, permits or local trekking formalities may apply.
Requirements and procedures can change, and operator-specific trekking slips should not automatically be treated as universal government fees.
Before travelling, check the latest requirements with the relevant Uttarakhand forest/tourism authorities or your registered trekking operator.
Carry identification documents and follow local environmental regulations.
Important Travel Tips
Start trekking early, particularly for the Chandrashila summit section.
Keep one buffer day if your schedule involves long mountain road journeys.
Do not underestimate the altitude simply because the trek is relatively short.
Avoid rushing from Tungnath to Chandrashila if you are experiencing headache, dizziness, unusual fatigue or other symptoms associated with altitude exposure.
Weather can change quickly, so keep rain and wind protection accessible rather than buried at the bottom of your backpack.
In winter, do not start the summit section without checking current snow, visibility and trail conditions.
Most importantly, follow local instructions and avoid leaving marked trails unnecessarily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deoriatal Chandrashila the same as Chopta Chandrashila Trek?
They are closely related trek names. The classic combined route adds Deoriatal to the Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila journey. Some operators therefore market the journey as Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek, while others use Chopta Chandrashila or Tungnath Chandrashila Trek.
What is the altitude of Chandrashila?
Uttarakhand Tourism's dedicated Deoriatal Chandrashila trek page lists the highest altitude as 3,683 metres (12,083 feet). Other Uttarakhand Tourism pages round Chandrashila's elevation to around 4,000 metres, so travellers should treat published figures as approximate and use the dedicated trek figure for itinerary planning.
What is the distance of the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek?
Uttarakhand Tourism lists approximately 33 km for its dedicated trek itinerary. Current trekking operators may quote around 32 km because the total depends on the exact route and campsite measurements.
How far is Tungnath from Chandrashila?
The distance from Tungnath to Chandrashila is approximately 1.5 km one way. The trail is steep, so walking time depends on fitness, altitude, weather and snow conditions.
Can beginners do the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek?
Fit beginners can consider the trek with proper preparation and suitable guidance. However, winter conditions and the steep Chandrashila climb require greater experience, equipment and caution than a normal-season trek.
Can Chandrashila be visited in winter?
Yes, the route can be approached as a winter snow trek when conditions permit. However, snow cover, trail accessibility and weather vary each season. Check current conditions before travelling and use appropriate equipment and experienced local/guide support when required.
Final Planning Checklist
Before leaving for the Deoriatal Chandrashila Tungnath Trek, confirm:
Current road conditions to Sari and Chopta
Latest weather forecast
Trek registration/permit requirements
Tungnath Temple opening status if relevant
Accommodation or campsite arrangements
Current snow conditions for winter trips
Transport timings
Emergency contacts
Suitable trekking footwear
Required winter equipment
Food and water arrangements
At least some buffer time for mountain-road delays
The Deoriatal Chandrashila route combines forests, meadows, a Himalayan lake, a revered temple and a high mountain summit in one journey. With realistic planning, appropriate fitness and season-specific equipment, it can be approached safely and comfortably without relying on overly rigid distance or timing estimates.
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