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TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
6 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
12,083 ft
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE
32 kms
BASECAMP
Sari
A summit climb to one of India's best panoramas
We have a soft spot for the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek because of the role Indiahikes played in shaping it. Earlier, Deoriatal and Chopta-Tungnath were done as separate hikes. But when we explored the beautiful forests and meadows of Rohini and Ropini in between, we knew this had to be one trek. Today, that’s the standard route.
But even with these forests and meadows, what truly stands out is the Chandrashila summit. At Indiahikes, we’ve stood at stunning Himalayan viewpoints like Kuari Top and Tapovan. But most show peaks from just one region. From Kuari Top, you see the grand Garhwal mountains. From Tapovan, you get a close view of the Gangotri range. But Chandrashila offers a sweeping panorama of the most iconic peaks of both Garhwal and Kumaon. This is unparalleled.
On your left are the Gangotri group of peaks, the Kedarnath, the Kedar dome, Mandani Parbat and Janhukut. The imposing Chaukhamba is right in front. Most of them are over 7,000 meters tall. On your right are the Gauri Parbat, Hathi Parbat and Dunagiri. And then right ahead, standing against the skyline in India’s tallest mountain, Mt Nanda Devi, flanked by Nanda Ghunti and Trishul. If you are there at sunrise, you see the Sun rise right behind Nanda Devi. The first rays touch Chaukhamba. We’ve seen many trekkers moved to tears by this sight.
What makes the climb to Chandrashila summit special is the perfect balance it offers. It’s not too tough, like Pangarchulla, but still gives you the full feel of a summit push. You begin in the dark, take on a steady climb, and earn your summit. This mix of challenge and accessibility is rarely found on other treks.
There is so much to love about the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek. Right from the grand reflection of Mt. Chaukhamba on the still waters of Deoriatal, to the dense, untouched forests, quiet meadows, and the charming Akashkamini stream—it’s a trek that surprises you at every step. In spring, the trail bursts to life with rhododendrons in every shade of red and pink. In winter, it turns into a snow-covered wonderland.
5 Things We Love About the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek
1) The Chandrashila Summit’s Panoramic Views
Standing at the Chandrashila summit feels like being on top of the world. To your left, you see the Gangotri range. Right in front of you is the imposing Chaukhamba massif. And further ahead stands India’s tallest mountain, Mt Nanda Devi, side by side with Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti. You see almost 20 iconic peaks, each of them close to or more than 7000 m above sea-level.
2) Deoriatal Lake and Mt Chaukhamba
The Deoriatal Lake is a gem of this trek. Nestled amidst dense forests, the lake is serene and magical, especially with the towering Mt Chaukhamba reflected in its waters. For many trekkers, this view alone justifies the entire trek. The lake, surrounded by snow in winter, makes an even more picture-perfect spot.
3) Rhododendron Blooms in Spring
In spring, the trek transforms into a riot of colours as rhododendrons bloom in abundance. The trail is alive with vivid pinks, reds, and scarlets, creating a surreal atmosphere. Entire hillsides near Chopta turn red with rhododendron blossoms. This makes Deoriatal Chandrashila one of the most popular rhododendron treks of India.
4) The Thrill of the Summit Climb
The climb from Chopta to the Chandrashila summit is an adventure in itself. The ascent is challenging yet exhilarating. You witness the landscape transform as the trek climbs from dense forests to bouldery alpine zones. Reaching the summit brings a sense of accomplishment that trekkers cherish forever.
5) Birdwatcher’s Paradise
The trek is a haven for bird lovers. The Deoriatal region is teeming with birdlife. You walk amidst their cheerful company throughout the trek. Near the Tunganath temple, you can spot the vibrant Himalayan Monal, Uttarakhand’s state bird.
The variety on the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek over just 4 days of Moderate-Level trekking is mindboggling. Add to it the one-of-a-kind climb to Chandrashila and the sweeping views from the summit—you just can’t take your eyes off this trek.
We have a soft spot for the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek because of the role Indiahikes played in shaping it. Earlier, Deoriatal and Chopta-Tungnath were done as separate hikes. But when we explored the beautiful forests and meadows of Rohini and Ropini in between, we knew this had to be one trek. Today, that’s the standard route.
But even with these forests and meadows, what truly stands out is the Chandrashila summit. At Indiahikes, we’ve stood at stunning Himalayan viewpoints like Kuari Top and Tapovan. But most show peaks from just one region. From Kuari Top, you see the grand Garhwal mountains. From Tapovan, you get a close view of the Gangotri range. But Chandrashila offers a sweeping panorama of the most iconic peaks of both Garhwal and Kumaon. This is unparalleled.
5 Reasons Why Indiahikes
We are known for our pioneering safety practices in trekking. Microspikes, oximeters, and BP checks became standards thanks to us. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with—everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes. When you join our treks, we first make our No-Compromise Safety Promise. It’s our unwavering commitment to keep you safe, no matter what.
Our commitment to the environment is relentless. We don’t just encourage responsible trekking; we insist on it. That’s why our Green Trails principles are non-negotiable. They don’t involve just our trekkers or our staff members. Our entire trek processes and policies are designed to favour the environment, even if it is often counterintuitive to our business.
More than 30,000 trekkers trek with us every year. In addition, our outdoor learning division (InSoul) has participants from the who’s of the education organisation in India, from the IIMs to BITS to top international schools. More than 5,000 participants from these institutions trek with us annually. We do not spend a single rupee on advertising to get these participants. Our reputation precedes us.
We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have documented and brought out most of India’s famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023-24 alone, we brought out nine new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone. This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own. We believe everyone must trek.
We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey.
Trekker Reviews
Harish Subramanian
My first Himalayan Trek!
Rainy Bhatt
College Student, Ahmedabad | Age 20 | Jan 2025
Deoriatal Chandrashila - Complete Trek Information
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
Photo Gallery
Why the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek surprised me
What I Like About the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek
Did you know that the Indiahikes School of Outdoor Learning (InSOUL) conducts experiential learning programmes for schools?
Trek Trivia
Things Nobody Tells You About Deoriatal Chandrashila
Did you know Deoriatal Chandrashila is one of the best treks for birders?
Given that the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek is in the heart of the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary, it has a few of the most heavily forested trails. Along with the forests, come a plethora of birds!
Most of our birders choose this trail to catch sight of a few rare birds -- including the gorgeous Himalayan Monal! The section from Chopta to Chandrashila is especially well-known for monal sightings.
Watch the video here, where we interview expert bird photographer, Ajit Hota, who shares tips on when and where to spot these birds!
Lord Rama’s Meditation on the peak
An interesting myth is the story of Lord Rama meditating on top of the Chandrashila peak.
After defeating Ravana in the battle of Lanka, Lord Rama was finding a way to atone for his sins. It is believed that he decided to meditate on the Chandrashila peak.
This was Lord Rama’s way of engaging in severe penance after the Ramayana.
Origin of the Tunganath temple
Another fascinating legend is that of the Tunganath temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world.
After the Mahabharata war, Lord Shiva was upset with the Pandavas for their gruesome killing. The Pandavas found a way to please, venerate and celebrate Lord Shiva; they built the blissful Tunganath temple.
The Pandavas were thus freed from their sins.
Story of the Deoriatal Lake
Anyone on the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek would notice the captivating Deoriatal Lake which has a unique story of its own.
As the legend goes, four brothers of the Pandava clan once visited the pristine lake during their exile. The lake was then a bathing spot for gods, guarded by a crane - Yaksha. Despite Yaksha’s warnings, the brothers decided to sip water. As a consequence, Yaksha punished them, leading to their immediate death.
The locals believe that it is beside this lake that the famous question-and-answer dialogue between Yudishtira and a Yaksha in the mountains ensued -- also known as Yaksha Prashana.
The legend goes that: One day, towards the end of their 12-year exile, the Pandavas were in search of a runaway deer in the forests. During their search, the oldest brother of them all, Yudishtira was overcome by thirst. His youngest brother set out looking for water. He chanced upon a lovely lake. Here, a crane that was sitting close by, warned Nakula, saying the water would turn into poison if he drank it without answering some questions he had.
Ignoring the crane, Nakula drank water from the lake. He immediately died. Three of his brothers, Sahadeva, Bhima and Arjuna followed the same fate -- all of them drinking water without paying heed to the crane's words.
When Yudishtira finally approached the lake, he was distraught seeing that his brothers had passed. The crane warned him too about the poisonous water. When he paused to talk to the crane, it revealed itself to be a Yaksha (a celestial demon). The Yaksha offered to bring one of the Pandavas back to life if Yudishtira could answer all his questions.
What ensued was an epic dialogue of over 125 questions about life, dharma, philosophy and more.
Impressed by Yudishtira's answers, the Yaksha finally revealed himself to be Yama Dharma, Yudishtira's own father! He brought back not only one Pandava to life but all of them.
The locals believe that this whole episode occurred on the soil of Deoriatal (or Devariyatal), which when translated, becomes "the lake of the gods."
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