The idea of an offbeat destination is unique for all. Some prefer an off-the-road location, while others choose a tourist destination. However, everyone wants a place they can reach easily and can explore peacefully. Chopta is one of the few spots that meet your purpose.

Introduction

Often called the Mini Switzerland, Chopta is a small area of lush green forests and meadows around 210 km from Rishikesh and 465 km from Delhi. Situated at a height of 2680m, the place is covered by pine, deodar and rhododendron forests,
Planning a road trip from Delhi to Chopta which is in Uttrakhand is a perfect getaway for Delhites. Here is a brief itinerary for you.

Why visit Chopta Valley?

While the natural beauty of Uttrakhand is alluring, Chopta is known for its perfection. It gives you a perfect chance of an offbeat trip without completely getting offbeat. You will not get away from civilization, which proves to be an ideal getaway for families. Here, you can enjoy all the luxuries of tourism without experiencing the crowd of popular tourist destinations.
Secondly, reaching Chopta is easy. The Delhi to Chopta route brings you all the way to this elegant hamlet and is in perfect condition. You can easily reach here by renting a self-drive car in Delhi. Further, as it enjoys an offbeat tag, not many people visit here but it is a perfect place for budget travelers.

Best Time to Visit

Given its high altitude, Chopta village enjoys heavy snowfall, making it difficult terrain for visitors. Thus, its ideal for those seeking a thrilling winter adventure as Chopta offers unique trekking experiences from December to March. During this season, you can witness the mesmerizing snow-covered landscapes and enjoy the serenity of the winter wonderland.
On the other hand, if you prefer warmer climate and greenery, it is suggested to visit Chopta from March to October. It is also the best time to visit the shrine of Tungnath. To witness the vibrant flora in full bloom and enjoy the misty hills, consider visiting Chopta during July and August.

Route Options from Delhi to Chopta Valley

Wondering how to reach Chopta from Delhi? Well, you have two routes:
The distance from Delhi to Chopta distance by road is around 403 km and can be reached via road using these routes:
Route option 1: Delhi – Sonipat – Muzzafarnagar – Roorkee – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Srinagar – Chopta via NH 7. If you choose to travel from Delhi to Chopta by car, you can reach Chopta in approx. 11 hours. You will come across some renowned cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar etc.

Route option 2: Delhi – Ghaziabad – Sonipat – Muzzafarnagar – Roorkee – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Srinagar – Chopta via NH 334 and NH 7. If you choose this route, you will reach Chopta in 11.5 hours approx. covering a Delhi to Chopta distance of 409 km.

Travel Preparations and Essentials for Chopta

Before packing your bags for Chopta village, make sure you are perfectly prepared for the high-altitude. Ensure to pack warm clothes, especially during winters when the temperatures can drop significantly.
Also pack good trekking footwear, if you are planning to go trekking to Tungnath temple, and a first-aid kit for emergencies. Additionally, pack enough water and snacks as you may have limited options along the way, especially when you have kids with you.
Moreover, pack sunglasses and sunscreen along with a hat to safeguard you from the strong mountain sun. Lastly, do not forget your charger or power bank to keep your phone fully charged.

Top Attractions on the Way

The road to Chopta has several amazing places to visit along with cultural inclusions that make the journey equally exciting as the end-location. Enjoy Chopta Chandrashila trek if you’re looking for something adventurous. As a nature lover, you can choose to enjoy the views of Ukhimath and check out the snow-covered mountains. Visit the Tungnath temple, the highest Shiva temple all round the world before reaching Chopta. You can also stop by the Deoria Tal and discover this amazing lake. Some other places to visit near Chopta include Mansa Devi, Bharat Matha and Chandi Devi.

Exploring Chopta Valley

Famously known as the Mini Switzerland of India, Chopta Valley is a tranquil, untouched beauty of nature housed in the Garhwal Himalayas. Spend some time in peace doing nothing but enjoying the scenic beauty around you. The most popular activities in Chopta are trekking and camping.
The Tungnath and Chandrashila trek is among the most famous ones. Next in line is the short trek to Deoria Tal which is perfect for beginners. Deoria Tal is also a known spot for overnight camping.

Photography is another activity that you would love to indulge in while visiting Chopta. The nearby Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary would please anyone who is interested in wildlife or photography. Some rare Himalayan species like monal bird, musk deer, and Pika Mouse are found here.
If you are visiting in winter, then Snow trekking and skiing will be the two most common activities to look forward to. For adventure enthusiasts, Rock crafts, rock climbing, and rappelling can be arranged on request.

Travel Tips and Recommendations

Here are some travel tips and recommendations:
● If you want to go trekking, begin early morning to witness the sunrise at Chandrashila or Tungnath and get a pleasant view of the surrounding peaks.
● Accommodation options in Chopta are limited, so ensure you make an advance booking, especially during peak season. Choose eco-friendly lodges or homestays to support local tourism and reduce the negative impact on the environment.
● Since the area is remote, make sure you carry enough cash, as you may not find many ATMs. Respect the locals and their culture, and do not pollute the environment using plastic.
● If you choose to stay in Haridwar or Rishikesh for some time, you can eventually book a car rental in Rishikesh or Haridwar to continue your journey. It is a time-saving and hassle-free option.
● Lastly, the area has limited connectivity, so consider it as an opportunity to get disconnected from the world.

Conclusion

This hidden gem of the Himalayas brings you a perfect mix of natural beauty, adventure, and spirituality. Right preparation and awareness of the unique challenges of the area will offer you a mesmerizing experience. Enjoy its serene beauty, explore the place responsibly, and take back some amazing memories of this divine Himalayan haven.