Deoriatal- Chandrashila Trek - Pune
India Treks
presents
Deoriatal- Chandrashila Trek
Date:
Dec 21 at 1 am – Dec 28 at 6 pm
Contact:
Sarvesh 7744866811
Mayur 75880 53616
Shweta 81493 21909
Mayur 75880 53616
Shweta 81493 21909
Organiser:
India Treks
Cost:
Haridwar to Haridwar – INR 12000
Delhi to Delhi – INR 14000
Pune to Pune – INR 14000 + Flight ticket cost as on booking date
Deoriatal- Chandrashila Trek: The best trek for summit views
Region: Uttarakhand
Difficulty: Easy
High Altitude: 13000 ft
WIKI:
Now, all summit climbs are rewarding.
You trudge up a mountain for hours during the wee hours.
You reach its highest point like the rays of the sun lighten the sky.
Everything is below you – the clouds, the hills, the tiny specks of civilisation.
On a Himalayan trek, you usually see mountain ranges in the distance.
Now, this is where Deoriatal-Chandrashila is special.
It is not a section of Himalayan ranges that you see.
You see all the major summits of Western and
Eastern Uttarakhand from the summit. By all, we mean all.
You see Nanda Devi, the highest mountain entirely in India.
Then, there is Mt Trishul, Mt Nanda Ghunti, Mt Kamet,
Mt Dunagiri, Mt Chaukhamba, Kedar Dome, Kedarnath,
Mt Thalaysagar, the Gangotri ranges, and more!
It is a 270-degree view of all the tallest mountains
in India that you can think of. Nowhere on a trek that
is so easily approachable do you get to see all these
summits so close
Itinerary:
Day 1- 21 Dec:
Pune @1.10 AM to Delhi travelling @3.45AM by flight
Delhi to Haridwar by Train @6.45AM
-Dehradun Shtbdi Exp, Train No: 12017
Reach Haridwar @12.00PM
Haridwar @1.00PM to Sari
Reach Sari @10.00PM
Day 2 – 22 Dec:
Delhi to Delhi – INR 14000
Pune to Pune – INR 14000 + Flight ticket cost as on booking date
Deoriatal- Chandrashila Trek: The best trek for summit views
Region: Uttarakhand
Difficulty: Easy
High Altitude: 13000 ft
WIKI:
Now, all summit climbs are rewarding.
You trudge up a mountain for hours during the wee hours.
You reach its highest point like the rays of the sun lighten the sky.
Everything is below you – the clouds, the hills, the tiny specks of civilisation.
On a Himalayan trek, you usually see mountain ranges in the distance.
Now, this is where Deoriatal-Chandrashila is special.
It is not a section of Himalayan ranges that you see.
You see all the major summits of Western and
Eastern Uttarakhand from the summit. By all, we mean all.
You see Nanda Devi, the highest mountain entirely in India.
Then, there is Mt Trishul, Mt Nanda Ghunti, Mt Kamet,
Mt Dunagiri, Mt Chaukhamba, Kedar Dome, Kedarnath,
Mt Thalaysagar, the Gangotri ranges, and more!
It is a 270-degree view of all the tallest mountains
in India that you can think of. Nowhere on a trek that
is so easily approachable do you get to see all these
summits so close
Itinerary:
Day 1- 21 Dec:
Pune @1.10 AM to Delhi travelling @3.45AM by flight
Delhi to Haridwar by Train @6.45AM
-Dehradun Shtbdi Exp, Train No: 12017
Reach Haridwar @12.00PM
Haridwar @1.00PM to Sari
Reach Sari @10.00PM
Day 2 – 22 Dec:
Sari to Deoriatal
Altitude: 6,601 ft (2012 m) to 7,841 ft (2,390 m)
Time taken: 2 hours, 3 km
Trek gradient: Easy.
Start from the village climbing a few stairs
and Gradual climb on a well-defined rocky trail,
which becomes steeper after the first 20 minutes.
Short flat walk to the camp site after an hour of climbing.
Water sources: None.
Carry around 1 litre of water from Sari.
The adventure starts at Sari.
There is a sign-board indicating the trek route to
Deoriatal in the heart of the small market in Sari,
next to Hira and Murali Singh Negi Tourist House.
The sign board says Devariya Tal,
which is an alternative name for the lake.
It’s called so because it’s believed that devis (Goddesses)
once came to the lake to take a dip.
Alternatively, one can also start the trek
from Ukhimath by taking another trekking route
over the mountain for an 8 km steep incline trek to Sari.
However, if you are short of time,
this can be avoided. You can instead proceed to Sari via road.
The picturesque village of Sari.
A well-defined rocky trail is laid here.
This trail begins with a gradual climb up the mountain.
After approximately 15 minutes, you will come across
village houses and an old local temple. Take in the
pretty view of vast farmlands from here.
Ten minutes into the hike, the trail starts to become steeper.
The forest has been cleared here,
so you will get a good view all around.
At the valley facing end, you can see the
summit of Chandrashila and below it, the holy Tungnath temple.
You may need binoculars to spot the temple.
The trail is well-defined all the way to Deoriatal.
Ensure that you take the trail towards the left.
From here, you will need to follow the trail that winds up the mountain ridge.
After a steady uphill trek for about 20-30 minutes,
you will reach the first view-point.
The Forest Department has constructed a hawa ghar
for the travellers here.
This spot is ideally located to relax and
feast your eyes with a grand view of the mountains and the valley.
The grand Deoriatal lake with Mt Chaukhamba looming in the background.
From here, take the trail that goes by a
beautiful rhododendron and maple forest.
After a steady hike of ten minutes,
you will reach the second view point.
Now, at 7,434 feet, Sari is no longer visible.
With only a kilometre left, you will find
yourself at the backside of the mountain
and you will get a view of the Ukhimath side of the valley,
though only for a while. You are now nearing your destination.
Another 20 minutes later, you reach a dhaba.
Deoriatal is just two minutes away from here.
After a very short downhill trek,
your surroundings open up to a grand view of Deoriatal,
with Mt. Chaukhambha massifs looming in the background.
A clear night at the Deoriatal campsite.
You have almost the entire day to yourself.
You can go around the campsite and explore the trails around.
The forests around here are lovely.
You’ll be able to see and hear several rare Himalayan birds.
There’s a watch tower close to the lake that gives
you grand views of the surrounding mountains.
Camp beside Deoriatal for the night.
The beauty of the view generally intensifies in the morning,
when the clouds have cleared to offer unreal views of the hills.
Day 3: 23 Dec
Altitude: 6,601 ft (2012 m) to 7,841 ft (2,390 m)
Time taken: 2 hours, 3 km
Trek gradient: Easy.
Start from the village climbing a few stairs
and Gradual climb on a well-defined rocky trail,
which becomes steeper after the first 20 minutes.
Short flat walk to the camp site after an hour of climbing.
Water sources: None.
Carry around 1 litre of water from Sari.
The adventure starts at Sari.
There is a sign-board indicating the trek route to
Deoriatal in the heart of the small market in Sari,
next to Hira and Murali Singh Negi Tourist House.
The sign board says Devariya Tal,
which is an alternative name for the lake.
It’s called so because it’s believed that devis (Goddesses)
once came to the lake to take a dip.
Alternatively, one can also start the trek
from Ukhimath by taking another trekking route
over the mountain for an 8 km steep incline trek to Sari.
However, if you are short of time,
this can be avoided. You can instead proceed to Sari via road.
The picturesque village of Sari.
A well-defined rocky trail is laid here.
This trail begins with a gradual climb up the mountain.
After approximately 15 minutes, you will come across
village houses and an old local temple. Take in the
pretty view of vast farmlands from here.
Ten minutes into the hike, the trail starts to become steeper.
The forest has been cleared here,
so you will get a good view all around.
At the valley facing end, you can see the
summit of Chandrashila and below it, the holy Tungnath temple.
You may need binoculars to spot the temple.
The trail is well-defined all the way to Deoriatal.
Ensure that you take the trail towards the left.
From here, you will need to follow the trail that winds up the mountain ridge.
After a steady uphill trek for about 20-30 minutes,
you will reach the first view-point.
The Forest Department has constructed a hawa ghar
for the travellers here.
This spot is ideally located to relax and
feast your eyes with a grand view of the mountains and the valley.
The grand Deoriatal lake with Mt Chaukhamba looming in the background.
From here, take the trail that goes by a
beautiful rhododendron and maple forest.
After a steady hike of ten minutes,
you will reach the second view point.
Now, at 7,434 feet, Sari is no longer visible.
With only a kilometre left, you will find
yourself at the backside of the mountain
and you will get a view of the Ukhimath side of the valley,
though only for a while. You are now nearing your destination.
Another 20 minutes later, you reach a dhaba.
Deoriatal is just two minutes away from here.
After a very short downhill trek,
your surroundings open up to a grand view of Deoriatal,
with Mt. Chaukhambha massifs looming in the background.
A clear night at the Deoriatal campsite.
You have almost the entire day to yourself.
You can go around the campsite and explore the trails around.
The forests around here are lovely.
You’ll be able to see and hear several rare Himalayan birds.
There’s a watch tower close to the lake that gives
you grand views of the surrounding mountains.
Camp beside Deoriatal for the night.
The beauty of the view generally intensifies in the morning,
when the clouds have cleared to offer unreal views of the hills.
Day 3: 23 Dec
Deoriatal to Syalmi via Rohini Bugyal
Altitude: 7,841 ft (2,390 m) to 8,790 ft (2,679 m)
Time taken: 5-6 hours, 7 km
Trek gradient: Moderate.
Initial 15 minutes of gradual ascent followed
by 45 minutes of rapid descent,
easing off after an hour of ascent to reach Rohini Bugyal.
Series of ascents and descents to Rohini Bugyal – 20-30 minutes
each and after 10 minutes of graduate ascent,
comes the steep descent for 90 minutes
to Siyalmi Campsite Chopta – 20-30 minutes each.
Water sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Deoriatal.
No water sources along the way
Walk along the left side of the lake towards the Forest Guest Lodge.
Pass by a watch tower and proceed from behind
the Forest Lodge from your right.
A lovely forest trail awaits you.
Full of rhododendron and maple trees,
the trail is a picturesque one.
Every now and then,
the Kedar Dome and Chaukhamba peaks peek at
you through the trees on your left.
The forest walk from Deoriatal to Chopta.
After 15 minutes of forest walk from the guest house,
look for a small clearing as you exit the forest.
In front of you, the Chandrashila peak is visible.
Below, towards your right, you can see Sari village again.
Observe the open expanse and a view of the forested
ridge running all the way to Chopta.
This is the logical route of the forest ridge
trek to the base of Chandrashila Peak.
Take the ascending trail ahead of you as you
get much better views from both sides of the valley.
Towards your left, you can see the mountain ridge,
from where a trail to Madhmaheshwar and Nandikund trek passes.
After 15 minutes of climbing the ridge,
look out for the highest point of the ridge nearest to you.
This hill-top has a flag post.
This is Jhandi Dhar (N 30°31.580, E 079 °08.515).
In the month of March and April,
the trail is blazing with red and pink flowers of rhododendron.
After 15 minutes of following the laid trail,
you reach the top of Jhandi Dhar.
The ridge has a small flat ground with unobstructed views from all sides.
The forest continues to thicken throughout the trek.
If you thought the forests until now were dense,
you haven’t seen the start of it.
From here, proceed and take the trail that descends
rapidly and connects with the forest ridge below.
The descent is sharp, but pleasant.
After 10-15 minutes, the trail takes an eventful
turn as you enter the forest ridge from the left.
The flora of the region is stupendous.
Every now and then, you might come across
small shrines with bright yellow flags tied to them.
These are all made by tourists and locals.
You can use them as landmarks to ensure you’re on the right trail.
Also, keep an eye out for wild animals such
as foxes and leopards.
Keep walking on a leisurely downhill trail inside
a generous cover of the Chopta forest,
which will give you respite from the late morning sun.
This is a quiet section of the forest with an abundance of birds.
The Himalayan woodpecker and Verditer Flycatcher
can easily be spotted here.
Walk for another 20 minutes,
until you see three trails branching out.
The Verditer Flycatcher can easily be spotted in the forests from Deoriatal to Syalmi.
Picture by Bird Watcher Ajit Hota
Take the centre trail that ascends gradually.
This is the trail to Rohini Bugyal and Chopta.
After 20 minutes of gradual ascent,
you’ll walk on level land for around 10 minutes.
From here, the trail opens to small pasture land.
You exit the forest even as the view of Chandrashila peak
greets you up front. Just before you, you see the second forest
ridge that needs to be traversed.
Take the trail from the right side of the connecting ridge.
It passes by a small grassland.
The trail ascends sharply as you re-enter the forest once.
This part of the forest has some of the oldest oak,
maple and rhododendron trees of the Kedarnath Sanctuary.
Another 20 minutes of trekking will have you reach the next
landmark of the day, which is next to a small temple.
This is known as Bhagdwal by the locals.
By now, you have trekked approximately 5 km.
There are three trails branching out from here.
The one towards the right descends sharply and reconnects with Sari Village.
The one that descends from the left goes to a local village near Ukhimath.
Take the center trail and walk for 15-20 minutes
till you reach a small meadow.
From here, you can see Kala Parvat,
which is a peak located on the right of Chandrashila peak.
Below Kala Parvat is a small glacial lake, called Bisuri Tal.
As the legend has it, the Pandavas hid their weapons here.
The trail from here is a leisurely walk ahead for
about 30 minutes as you pass a small rivulet.
The stream is the only source of water and it is
advisable to fill your bottles here.
Rohini Bugyal is now only a 40 meter climb up from your right side.
Rohini Bughyal (N 30°31.026, E 079 °11.702)
is a small meadow surrounded by a beautiful rhododendron forest
and view of the Kedar dome and the Kala Parvat peaks.
The sunset view from here is incomparable!
The Syalmi campsite is across the small valley that’s
just in front of the Rohini Bugyal campsite.
It takes another 20-30 minutes to reach the campsite.
Day 4:
Altitude: 7,841 ft (2,390 m) to 8,790 ft (2,679 m)
Time taken: 5-6 hours, 7 km
Trek gradient: Moderate.
Initial 15 minutes of gradual ascent followed
by 45 minutes of rapid descent,
easing off after an hour of ascent to reach Rohini Bugyal.
Series of ascents and descents to Rohini Bugyal – 20-30 minutes
each and after 10 minutes of graduate ascent,
comes the steep descent for 90 minutes
to Siyalmi Campsite Chopta – 20-30 minutes each.
Water sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Deoriatal.
No water sources along the way
Walk along the left side of the lake towards the Forest Guest Lodge.
Pass by a watch tower and proceed from behind
the Forest Lodge from your right.
A lovely forest trail awaits you.
Full of rhododendron and maple trees,
the trail is a picturesque one.
Every now and then,
the Kedar Dome and Chaukhamba peaks peek at
you through the trees on your left.
The forest walk from Deoriatal to Chopta.
After 15 minutes of forest walk from the guest house,
look for a small clearing as you exit the forest.
In front of you, the Chandrashila peak is visible.
Below, towards your right, you can see Sari village again.
Observe the open expanse and a view of the forested
ridge running all the way to Chopta.
This is the logical route of the forest ridge
trek to the base of Chandrashila Peak.
Take the ascending trail ahead of you as you
get much better views from both sides of the valley.
Towards your left, you can see the mountain ridge,
from where a trail to Madhmaheshwar and Nandikund trek passes.
After 15 minutes of climbing the ridge,
look out for the highest point of the ridge nearest to you.
This hill-top has a flag post.
This is Jhandi Dhar (N 30°31.580, E 079 °08.515).
In the month of March and April,
the trail is blazing with red and pink flowers of rhododendron.
After 15 minutes of following the laid trail,
you reach the top of Jhandi Dhar.
The ridge has a small flat ground with unobstructed views from all sides.
The forest continues to thicken throughout the trek.
If you thought the forests until now were dense,
you haven’t seen the start of it.
From here, proceed and take the trail that descends
rapidly and connects with the forest ridge below.
The descent is sharp, but pleasant.
After 10-15 minutes, the trail takes an eventful
turn as you enter the forest ridge from the left.
The flora of the region is stupendous.
Every now and then, you might come across
small shrines with bright yellow flags tied to them.
These are all made by tourists and locals.
You can use them as landmarks to ensure you’re on the right trail.
Also, keep an eye out for wild animals such
as foxes and leopards.
Keep walking on a leisurely downhill trail inside
a generous cover of the Chopta forest,
which will give you respite from the late morning sun.
This is a quiet section of the forest with an abundance of birds.
The Himalayan woodpecker and Verditer Flycatcher
can easily be spotted here.
Walk for another 20 minutes,
until you see three trails branching out.
The Verditer Flycatcher can easily be spotted in the forests from Deoriatal to Syalmi.
Picture by Bird Watcher Ajit Hota
Take the centre trail that ascends gradually.
This is the trail to Rohini Bugyal and Chopta.
After 20 minutes of gradual ascent,
you’ll walk on level land for around 10 minutes.
From here, the trail opens to small pasture land.
You exit the forest even as the view of Chandrashila peak
greets you up front. Just before you, you see the second forest
ridge that needs to be traversed.
Take the trail from the right side of the connecting ridge.
It passes by a small grassland.
The trail ascends sharply as you re-enter the forest once.
This part of the forest has some of the oldest oak,
maple and rhododendron trees of the Kedarnath Sanctuary.
Another 20 minutes of trekking will have you reach the next
landmark of the day, which is next to a small temple.
This is known as Bhagdwal by the locals.
By now, you have trekked approximately 5 km.
There are three trails branching out from here.
The one towards the right descends sharply and reconnects with Sari Village.
The one that descends from the left goes to a local village near Ukhimath.
Take the center trail and walk for 15-20 minutes
till you reach a small meadow.
From here, you can see Kala Parvat,
which is a peak located on the right of Chandrashila peak.
Below Kala Parvat is a small glacial lake, called Bisuri Tal.
As the legend has it, the Pandavas hid their weapons here.
The trail from here is a leisurely walk ahead for
about 30 minutes as you pass a small rivulet.
The stream is the only source of water and it is
advisable to fill your bottles here.
Rohini Bugyal is now only a 40 meter climb up from your right side.
Rohini Bughyal (N 30°31.026, E 079 °11.702)
is a small meadow surrounded by a beautiful rhododendron forest
and view of the Kedar dome and the Kala Parvat peaks.
The sunset view from here is incomparable!
The Syalmi campsite is across the small valley that’s
just in front of the Rohini Bugyal campsite.
It takes another 20-30 minutes to reach the campsite.
Day 4:
24 Dec Syalmi to Baniya Kund, 6 km
Time taken: 4 hours, 6 km
Trek gradient: Easy-moderate,
an hour of descending till Akashkamini river,
you cross that river and followed by a steep
ascent through dense forest.
And after an hour climbing,
you will see the first chaniya and from there,
its a series of ascent and descend till Baniya Kund.
Water sources: Akash Kamini waterfall en route Baniya Kund
Next, you traverse the ridge of Rohini Bughyal
to enter the meadows of Bhrujgali.
From Rohini Bughyal, proceed towards the connecting
forest ridge from your right.
Observe a tall rhododendron tree,
which is just a five-minute walk from the camp site.
Enter the forest of upper Rohini Bugyal and reconnect
with the old trail to Chopta.
Follow the trail that ascends gradually all the way
to the top of the forested ridge.
It takes 30 minutes to reach the ridge top,
which is covered in dense forest cover.
The locals call this spot as Tikidi Khal.
From here, there are two trails.
One goes straight ahead towards Kala Parvat.
This trail goes all the way to Bisuri Tal and Nandikund.
The other trail takes a sharp right turn and
descends rapidly all the way to Akash Kamini,
a rivulet coming from Chandrashila.
Take the second trail and descend 500 ft
to reach the stream crossing.
It takes 20-30 minutes to reach the stream.
It’s a good idea to refill your water bottles here.
There is a small bridge that needs to be crossed.
Forest trail from Deoriatal to Chopta
From here, take the trail that now ascends
gradually with a series of three scissor bends.
As you climb up, the view of the valley gets better and better.
Around 20 minutes of the steady climb will take you to a small meadow.
There is a series of shepherd huts here made of stones.
In summer, you will find locals occupying the huts with their livestock.
As you enter the meadow,
look for a path that diverts towards your right
and around 20 minutes of descent through a jungle trail,
you would come upon a road head.
Walk for about a kilometre to reach the Baniya Kund campsite.
Day 5:
Time taken: 4 hours, 6 km
Trek gradient: Easy-moderate,
an hour of descending till Akashkamini river,
you cross that river and followed by a steep
ascent through dense forest.
And after an hour climbing,
you will see the first chaniya and from there,
its a series of ascent and descend till Baniya Kund.
Water sources: Akash Kamini waterfall en route Baniya Kund
Next, you traverse the ridge of Rohini Bughyal
to enter the meadows of Bhrujgali.
From Rohini Bughyal, proceed towards the connecting
forest ridge from your right.
Observe a tall rhododendron tree,
which is just a five-minute walk from the camp site.
Enter the forest of upper Rohini Bugyal and reconnect
with the old trail to Chopta.
Follow the trail that ascends gradually all the way
to the top of the forested ridge.
It takes 30 minutes to reach the ridge top,
which is covered in dense forest cover.
The locals call this spot as Tikidi Khal.
From here, there are two trails.
One goes straight ahead towards Kala Parvat.
This trail goes all the way to Bisuri Tal and Nandikund.
The other trail takes a sharp right turn and
descends rapidly all the way to Akash Kamini,
a rivulet coming from Chandrashila.
Take the second trail and descend 500 ft
to reach the stream crossing.
It takes 20-30 minutes to reach the stream.
It’s a good idea to refill your water bottles here.
There is a small bridge that needs to be crossed.
Forest trail from Deoriatal to Chopta
From here, take the trail that now ascends
gradually with a series of three scissor bends.
As you climb up, the view of the valley gets better and better.
Around 20 minutes of the steady climb will take you to a small meadow.
There is a series of shepherd huts here made of stones.
In summer, you will find locals occupying the huts with their livestock.
As you enter the meadow,
look for a path that diverts towards your right
and around 20 minutes of descent through a jungle trail,
you would come upon a road head.
Walk for about a kilometre to reach the Baniya Kund campsite.
Day 5:
25 Dec Baniya Kund to Chopta by car.
Trek to Chandrashila Peak via Tungnath
and back to Baniya Kund & Christmas Celebration
Altitude: 8,790 ft (2,679 m) to 12,083 ft (3,683 m)
Time taken: 4 hours, 8 km
Trek gradient: Gradual ascent to Tungnath (2 km)
followed by a steep climb to Chandrashila
for about 60 minutes.
The descent on the same path takes around 90 minutes.
Water sources: None.
Ensure you are well hydrated and carry 2 litres
of water while starting from Chopta
Start the trek early,
preferably before sunrise,
so that you can treat yourself to a sunrise view
from Tungnath and the Chandrashila peak.
The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is
accessible via a cemented pilgrim trail.
From your campsite, take this trail.
It ascends sharply via a series of 11 scissor bends.
The walk is pleasant but is a very steep climb.
The trek up to Tungnath temple is approximately 2 km.
After you reach the 10th scissor bend,
look for a flag and a small open temple
towards your right side.
Tungnath temple – the highest abode of Lord Shiva shuts after Diwali
You can now see Chandrashila peak and Tungnath temple
complex at the base of the peak.
The views from here onwards are incredible.
A connecting peak leading to Chandrashila, known as Ravanshila,
is visible to your right.
Tungnath temple is only half a kilometre away from here.
Towards your left,
overlooking the valley is a section of Birch trees (Bhojpatra).
This is a haven for birds like Monal and Griffin vulture.
Take the 11th and last bend to reach the famous and holy Tungnath temple.
The temple is closed in winter and you will find snow
here from late December until around April.
Tungnath temple is the third of the Panch Kedars.
These are 5 temples believed to have been
built by the Pandavas to atone for the sins
of killing their kin and Brahmins in the
Kurukshetra war in the Mahabharata.
Lord Shiva, whose forgiveness they sought,
disguised himself as a bull.
Parts of this bull appeared in 5 different places,
each of these identified as a Panch Kedar.
Tungnath is where his hands and chest are said to have appeared.
This place has the distinction of being
the only temple in the world to be located
at such a high altitude (12,073 ft).
Chandrashila peak is 1.5 km above the temple complex.
The route to Chandrashila peak is from behind of the temple complex.
Pass by the local dormitories and take the trail that
winds from the right side of the base of Chandrashila peak.
A trail goes by from here and takes a series of scissor bends.
During winter, expect this trail to be completely buried in snow.
Those planning to do a winter trek here are strongly
advised to carry crampons/micro-spikes and an ice-axe.
The climb from Tungnath to Chandrashila is a 600 ft
ascent and is a very steep climb.
After you negotiate a series of switchbacks,
you will reach the upper base of Chandrashila Peak.
From here, the summit of Chandrashila is visible.
The climb up to the summit takes 30-45 minutes.
A small shrine and a few cairns on the Chandrashila summit.
Once at the top of the peak,
you get a 360-degree view of the mountains of Garhwal and Kumaon.
Walk past a temple and see some great mountains of Uttarakhand,
like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nandaghunti, Kamet, Dunagiri,
Chaukhamba, Kedar dome, Thalaysagar,
Gangotri ranges, Jahanukut and more.
The sunrise view from this spot is the best you
will get to see in all of the Himalayas.
At Chandrashila, you find another temple
dedicated to Lord Shiva.
This is believed to have been built by Rama
to atone for the sin of killing Ravana.
This temple is open from April to October.
The deity is moved to Ukhimath in winter.
The trek back to Chopta is via the
same route taken to reach here.
It takes 20-30 minutes to reach Tungnath
and another 60 minutes to reach Chopta from Tungnath.
Day 6:
Trek to Chandrashila Peak via Tungnath
and back to Baniya Kund & Christmas Celebration
Altitude: 8,790 ft (2,679 m) to 12,083 ft (3,683 m)
Time taken: 4 hours, 8 km
Trek gradient: Gradual ascent to Tungnath (2 km)
followed by a steep climb to Chandrashila
for about 60 minutes.
The descent on the same path takes around 90 minutes.
Water sources: None.
Ensure you are well hydrated and carry 2 litres
of water while starting from Chopta
Start the trek early,
preferably before sunrise,
so that you can treat yourself to a sunrise view
from Tungnath and the Chandrashila peak.
The trek from Chopta to Tungnath is
accessible via a cemented pilgrim trail.
From your campsite, take this trail.
It ascends sharply via a series of 11 scissor bends.
The walk is pleasant but is a very steep climb.
The trek up to Tungnath temple is approximately 2 km.
After you reach the 10th scissor bend,
look for a flag and a small open temple
towards your right side.
Tungnath temple – the highest abode of Lord Shiva shuts after Diwali
You can now see Chandrashila peak and Tungnath temple
complex at the base of the peak.
The views from here onwards are incredible.
A connecting peak leading to Chandrashila, known as Ravanshila,
is visible to your right.
Tungnath temple is only half a kilometre away from here.
Towards your left,
overlooking the valley is a section of Birch trees (Bhojpatra).
This is a haven for birds like Monal and Griffin vulture.
Take the 11th and last bend to reach the famous and holy Tungnath temple.
The temple is closed in winter and you will find snow
here from late December until around April.
Tungnath temple is the third of the Panch Kedars.
These are 5 temples believed to have been
built by the Pandavas to atone for the sins
of killing their kin and Brahmins in the
Kurukshetra war in the Mahabharata.
Lord Shiva, whose forgiveness they sought,
disguised himself as a bull.
Parts of this bull appeared in 5 different places,
each of these identified as a Panch Kedar.
Tungnath is where his hands and chest are said to have appeared.
This place has the distinction of being
the only temple in the world to be located
at such a high altitude (12,073 ft).
Chandrashila peak is 1.5 km above the temple complex.
The route to Chandrashila peak is from behind of the temple complex.
Pass by the local dormitories and take the trail that
winds from the right side of the base of Chandrashila peak.
A trail goes by from here and takes a series of scissor bends.
During winter, expect this trail to be completely buried in snow.
Those planning to do a winter trek here are strongly
advised to carry crampons/micro-spikes and an ice-axe.
The climb from Tungnath to Chandrashila is a 600 ft
ascent and is a very steep climb.
After you negotiate a series of switchbacks,
you will reach the upper base of Chandrashila Peak.
From here, the summit of Chandrashila is visible.
The climb up to the summit takes 30-45 minutes.
A small shrine and a few cairns on the Chandrashila summit.
Once at the top of the peak,
you get a 360-degree view of the mountains of Garhwal and Kumaon.
Walk past a temple and see some great mountains of Uttarakhand,
like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nandaghunti, Kamet, Dunagiri,
Chaukhamba, Kedar dome, Thalaysagar,
Gangotri ranges, Jahanukut and more.
The sunrise view from this spot is the best you
will get to see in all of the Himalayas.
At Chandrashila, you find another temple
dedicated to Lord Shiva.
This is believed to have been built by Rama
to atone for the sin of killing Ravana.
This temple is open from April to October.
The deity is moved to Ukhimath in winter.
The trek back to Chopta is via the
same route taken to reach here.
It takes 20-30 minutes to reach Tungnath
and another 60 minutes to reach Chopta from Tungnath.
Day 6:
26 Dec Depart to Haridwar/Rishikesh
Chopta also has a few private guest lodges.
Board your jeeps from here for a drive back to Haridwar.
You will reach Haridwar between 6.00 and 7.00 pm.
Rishikesh lies on the way and you could choose to get off.
Day 7- 27 Dec
Haridwar to Delhi - Nanda Devi Exp Train No: 12206 - Haridwar @00.15AM to Delhi 4.35 AM
Delhi @15.50 PM to Pune travelling @17.50 AM by flight
Here’s a fitness routine that works:
Target completing 5 km in 45 minutes when you begin.
Gradually increase your pace by running
4 times a week and bring it down to 5 km in less than 40 mins.
If you are 45 years old and above and
are comfortable with long distance walking than jogging,
then before you go on the trek,
you should be able to walk at least 10 km at a stretch.
Target completing this in 90 minutes.
If jogging is fine for you,
your target should be completing 5 km in 50 minutes initially,
and 5 km in less than 47 minutes before you go on the trek.
If you are somebody who prefers cycling over running,
your target must be to cover 20 km in 60 minutes.
What do you require for Trek:
Kedarkantha trek is organised in summer and winter.
Despite the time of the year,
make sure you carry a poncho,
as there might be unexpected showers.
If you’re trekking in winter,
five layers of warm clothes are mandatory (2 sweaters, a fleece jacket, a padded jacket and thermals).
Bare necessities
1. Trekking shoes: You trekking shoes need to have
a good grip so that you can manage slippery trails.
2. Backpack (40-60 litres): A backpack with sturdy straps
and a supporting frame.
Rain cover for backpack is essential.
3. Day pack (20 litres): You’ll need a smaller backpack to carry water,
snacks and your medical kit.
Bring a foldable backpack.
If you’re coming in a group, two of you can share a daypack.
Clothes
On a trek, carry fewer clothes than you would normally need.
Do not pack for ‘what if situations.
That will only add to the weight of your backpack
and not be used on the trek.
Once your clothes get warmed up on a trek,
you will not feel like changing.
Just maintain personal hygiene.
1. Three warm layers: At the campsites, especially at the higher campsite,
the temperature after sundown will drop to around
2-5 degrees in Summer and about -5 degrees in winter.
There might even be snow. You will need at least three
warm layers (two light layers such as fleece and woollen and one padded jacket)
for this trek.
2. Two trek pants: Two pairs of pants should
suffice for this trek.
You can carry tights to wear inside your pants
for the summit climb, as you’ll set out at 4 am.
Denim/jeans and shorts are not suitable for trekking.
3. Three collared t-shirts: Carry light,
full sleeved t-shirts that prevent sunburns on the neck and arms.
Let one of these be a dry-fit t-shirt.
It will dry quickly in case you are trekking on a rainy day.
A common mistake that trekkers make is not
changing their t-shirts often enough.
Regardless of how cold it is, the body tends to sweat a lot.
Trekkers who don’t change to fresh clothes after
reaching the campsite fall ill due to wet clothes
and are often unable to complete their trek.
4. Thermals: Carry thermals for use at night.
Keep them fresh and don’t wear them while trekking.
Accessories
1. Sunglasses: Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness.
They are mandatory.
2. Sun cap: High altitude sun is very harsh and will zap out your energy.
So, you will need a sun cap during the day.
3. Synthetic hand gloves: One pair of fleece or woollen hand gloves.
One pair of waterproof/resistant, windproof gloves.
4. Balaclava: You may use woollen scarves instead as well.
5. Socks (2 pairs): Apart from two sports socks,
you can take a pair of woollen socks for the night.
6. Headlamp/LED torch: Mandatory
7. Trekking pole.
8. Ponchos: At high altitudes, snowfall and rain are quite
common and hence it’s mandatory to carry a poncho so that you don’t get wet.
Others
1. Daypack (20 litres): If you are offloading your backpack,
you will need a smaller backpack to carry water,
medical kit and some light snacks.
2. Toiletries: Sunscreen, moisturizer, light towel,
lip balm, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitiser.
Do not carry wet wipes since these are not biodegradable.
We do not like biodegradable wet wipes
because they take a long time to decompose in the mountains.
Use toilet paper instead.
3. Sanitary waste: Make sure you bring your used sanitary napkins
back to the city with you.
Carry a zip lock bag to put used napkins.
Bring this ziplock bag back with you to the city
and do not dispose sanitary napkins in the mountains.
4. Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box.
We insist on trekkers getting their own cutlery for hygiene reasons.
We do not allow biodegradable or disposable cutlery on our treks.
5. Two water bottles: 1 litre each.
6. Plastic covers: While packing,
use plastic bags to compartmentalise things and
carry a few extra plastic bags for wet clothes.
Mandatory Personal Medical Kit
1. Diamox – 1 Strip
2. Crocin – 10 tablets
3. Avomine (optional, in case of motion sickness)- 1 Strip
4. Combiflam- Half Strip
5. Muscle relaxant – Half Strip
6. Digene – Half Strip
7. Avil – 1 strip
8. ORS – 6 packs
9. Knee Cap (If you are prone to a knee injury)
Mandatory Documents
Please carry the below documents.
Document two and three need to be downloaded (PDF),
filled in, signed and handed over to the trek leader at the base camp.
Original and photo copy of government photo identity card- (driving license, voters ID, Aadhar Card etc.)
Disclaimer form & Medical Certificate
Booking & Cancellation policy: -
Booking:
INR 999 Advance at time of booking – Non-Refundable
Cancellation:
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date - 10% deduction + All Flight & train ticket as per policy
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure - 50% deduction + All Flight & train ticket as per policy
Less than 15 days of departure - No Refund*
Chopta also has a few private guest lodges.
Board your jeeps from here for a drive back to Haridwar.
You will reach Haridwar between 6.00 and 7.00 pm.
Rishikesh lies on the way and you could choose to get off.
Day 7- 27 Dec
Haridwar to Delhi - Nanda Devi Exp Train No: 12206 - Haridwar @00.15AM to Delhi 4.35 AM
Delhi @15.50 PM to Pune travelling @17.50 AM by flight
Here’s a fitness routine that works:
Target completing 5 km in 45 minutes when you begin.
Gradually increase your pace by running
4 times a week and bring it down to 5 km in less than 40 mins.
If you are 45 years old and above and
are comfortable with long distance walking than jogging,
then before you go on the trek,
you should be able to walk at least 10 km at a stretch.
Target completing this in 90 minutes.
If jogging is fine for you,
your target should be completing 5 km in 50 minutes initially,
and 5 km in less than 47 minutes before you go on the trek.
If you are somebody who prefers cycling over running,
your target must be to cover 20 km in 60 minutes.
What do you require for Trek:
Kedarkantha trek is organised in summer and winter.
Despite the time of the year,
make sure you carry a poncho,
as there might be unexpected showers.
If you’re trekking in winter,
five layers of warm clothes are mandatory (2 sweaters, a fleece jacket, a padded jacket and thermals).
Bare necessities
1. Trekking shoes: You trekking shoes need to have
a good grip so that you can manage slippery trails.
2. Backpack (40-60 litres): A backpack with sturdy straps
and a supporting frame.
Rain cover for backpack is essential.
3. Day pack (20 litres): You’ll need a smaller backpack to carry water,
snacks and your medical kit.
Bring a foldable backpack.
If you’re coming in a group, two of you can share a daypack.
Clothes
On a trek, carry fewer clothes than you would normally need.
Do not pack for ‘what if situations.
That will only add to the weight of your backpack
and not be used on the trek.
Once your clothes get warmed up on a trek,
you will not feel like changing.
Just maintain personal hygiene.
1. Three warm layers: At the campsites, especially at the higher campsite,
the temperature after sundown will drop to around
2-5 degrees in Summer and about -5 degrees in winter.
There might even be snow. You will need at least three
warm layers (two light layers such as fleece and woollen and one padded jacket)
for this trek.
2. Two trek pants: Two pairs of pants should
suffice for this trek.
You can carry tights to wear inside your pants
for the summit climb, as you’ll set out at 4 am.
Denim/jeans and shorts are not suitable for trekking.
3. Three collared t-shirts: Carry light,
full sleeved t-shirts that prevent sunburns on the neck and arms.
Let one of these be a dry-fit t-shirt.
It will dry quickly in case you are trekking on a rainy day.
A common mistake that trekkers make is not
changing their t-shirts often enough.
Regardless of how cold it is, the body tends to sweat a lot.
Trekkers who don’t change to fresh clothes after
reaching the campsite fall ill due to wet clothes
and are often unable to complete their trek.
4. Thermals: Carry thermals for use at night.
Keep them fresh and don’t wear them while trekking.
Accessories
1. Sunglasses: Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness.
They are mandatory.
2. Sun cap: High altitude sun is very harsh and will zap out your energy.
So, you will need a sun cap during the day.
3. Synthetic hand gloves: One pair of fleece or woollen hand gloves.
One pair of waterproof/resistant, windproof gloves.
4. Balaclava: You may use woollen scarves instead as well.
5. Socks (2 pairs): Apart from two sports socks,
you can take a pair of woollen socks for the night.
6. Headlamp/LED torch: Mandatory
7. Trekking pole.
8. Ponchos: At high altitudes, snowfall and rain are quite
common and hence it’s mandatory to carry a poncho so that you don’t get wet.
Others
1. Daypack (20 litres): If you are offloading your backpack,
you will need a smaller backpack to carry water,
medical kit and some light snacks.
2. Toiletries: Sunscreen, moisturizer, light towel,
lip balm, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitiser.
Do not carry wet wipes since these are not biodegradable.
We do not like biodegradable wet wipes
because they take a long time to decompose in the mountains.
Use toilet paper instead.
3. Sanitary waste: Make sure you bring your used sanitary napkins
back to the city with you.
Carry a zip lock bag to put used napkins.
Bring this ziplock bag back with you to the city
and do not dispose sanitary napkins in the mountains.
4. Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box.
We insist on trekkers getting their own cutlery for hygiene reasons.
We do not allow biodegradable or disposable cutlery on our treks.
5. Two water bottles: 1 litre each.
6. Plastic covers: While packing,
use plastic bags to compartmentalise things and
carry a few extra plastic bags for wet clothes.
Mandatory Personal Medical Kit
1. Diamox – 1 Strip
2. Crocin – 10 tablets
3. Avomine (optional, in case of motion sickness)- 1 Strip
4. Combiflam- Half Strip
5. Muscle relaxant – Half Strip
6. Digene – Half Strip
7. Avil – 1 strip
8. ORS – 6 packs
9. Knee Cap (If you are prone to a knee injury)
Mandatory Documents
Please carry the below documents.
Document two and three need to be downloaded (PDF),
filled in, signed and handed over to the trek leader at the base camp.
Original and photo copy of government photo identity card- (driving license, voters ID, Aadhar Card etc.)
Disclaimer form & Medical Certificate
Booking & Cancellation policy: -
Booking:
INR 999 Advance at time of booking – Non-Refundable
Cancellation:
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date - 10% deduction + All Flight & train ticket as per policy
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure - 50% deduction + All Flight & train ticket as per policy
Less than 15 days of departure - No Refund*
Whatsapp Malhar on 9595326236 to list your event
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The Malhar blog and app is an attempt to bring events happening across various cities on a single platform. If you are an event organizer then you can list your event and shows on our blog and app. To list your events and shows, you can send your details on our whatsapp number 9595326236 or email us on themalharapp@gmail.com
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