CHOPTA

INTRODUCTION

Chopta is also popularly referred as mini Switzerland and is situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand state.Chopta is surrounded by dense forest of pine, deodar and rhododendrons and is at an elevation of about 2,600mts above sea level. The added advantage to its geography is that Chopta is rich in varied flora and fauna.Chopta is a strikingly expressive or vivid place which was left unexplored till recently. Now Chopta is becoming a famous tourist destination promising an enchanting view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding areas.Chopta is the commencement point of the trek to Tungnath – 3rd Kedar. Another 1.5 km trek from Tungnath leads to Chandrashila (4000mts above sea level) which offers a splendid view of snow clad Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul and Chaukhamba stretched widely.Chopta is an unconventional tourist destination ideal for trekking enthusiasts. During winter it is splendid to see Chopta covered with snow.

ORIENTATION

A destination nestled in the rhododendron and oak forests of the lower Garhwal Himalayan.

PLACES OF INTEREST

TUNGNATH SHIVA TEMPLE

Tungnath temple situated at an elevation of 3680m above sea level is the highest of the Panch Kedar and it is one of the highest hindu shrines for Lord Shiva.Here in the Tungnath temple the Lord Shiva's arm is worshipped.Tungnath Mandir can be reached by a 3.5km trek which is easy to reach starting from Chopta.

CHANDRASHILA

Chandrashila is at an altitude of 4,000mts above sea level and is the highest point of the mountain on which Chopta and Tungnath Mandir is located.Innerving views of the 270 degree Himalayan range is distinctly visible from Chandrashila.It is just 5kms uphill from Tungnath Temple.

DOGALBITTA

Dogalbitta is just a 3 km trek from Chopta and 10 km. by road.It is a strikking place where only nature creates sound. Accommodation in the P.W.D. Inspection House here is possible only possible by prior booking from Gopeshwar.

KANCHULA KORAK MUSK DEER SANCTUARY This sanctuary is situated at a distance of 7kms from Chopta on the Chopta-Gopeshwar road and is noted for its breeding musk deers.Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary is spread over an area of 5 sq. m amidst dense forests and aromatic flowers.  GOPESHWAR Gopeshwar is the district headquarters of Chamoli District and is situated at an altitude of 1550 mts.This places is a tourist place as well as a pilgrim center. There is a famous ancient Gopinath temple. Gopeshwar is the starting point of famous Rudranath trek.   UKHIMATH Ukhimath is situated at a distance of about 31kms from Chopta and is the winter seat of lord Kedarnath and worship is done during this season when the temple of Kedarnath remains closed. The other temples worth to visit here is temple of Usha and Anirudh, Shiva and Parvati. EAT OUTS There are small road-side restaurants in Chopta, which provide simple food with limited variety.It is always good to carry your own water. ACCOMMODATION Tourist Rest House. There are many Dharamshalas in Chopta.Mayadeep herbal resort is another place of accommodation while your visit to Chopta and Tungnath. A couple of GMNVL rest houses are available during peak season besides the local hotels.   HOW TO REACH By Air Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, 226 kms. By Rail Nearest railhead is Rishikesh, 209 kms. By Road Well connected by motorable roads

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