Chandrashila-Tungnath Trek

Chandrashila trek is one of the most popular Weekend getaways which has views of the most beautiful mountain ranges like Chaukhamba (22000ft), Janhukut (22326ft), etc. Chandrashila trek has a beautiful and well-recognised trail that's why its much easier to trek in any season. The path has Tungnath temple in the way which is the highest Shiva temple in the world (12073ft). 'It's one of the Five Panch Kedar temples in the world. The trek distance from Chopta to Tungnath is approx. (3km) and final stretch from Tungnath to Chandrashila is 2km. I have given nine essential points that are must to know before going for the trek.

1. Shortest Route to Tungnath-ChandrashilaThe shortest route to Chopta (the trek starts from Chopta) is from RUDRAPRAYAG-CHOPTA-TUNGNATH-CHANDRASHILA. If you are from Delhi, then buses are readily available from ISBT to Rudraprayag. Try to reach Rudraprayag early morning so that you can get a bus to Chopta because the number of buses is limited, if you are late then you may need to change some coaches to get to Chopta. The trek starts from Chopta. Shops are available so you can buy necessary items like water bottles, snacks, etc. You can also stay in Chopta if you are tired, rooms are always open unless its season peak time.
2. Tungnath is the Highest Shiva temple in the worldwhich is located at an altitude of 12073 ft (3680m) above sea level. It's one of the 5 Panch Kedar temples in India. Try to stay near Tungnath for the night.
3. There are two places called Chopta so be specific for "Chopta-Tungnath" while searching for buses.When you are searching for buses to Chopta be specific for the Chopta-Tungnath because there is one other place named Chopta so people will get confused about which bus you want. The bus will take approx. 3.5 hours to reach Chopta.
4. While returning remember that there is only one bus which will take you back to Rudraprayag from Chopta (timing1-2pm).There is only one bus so don't miss that bus because going back is more difficult because generally taxi's are not available because they are already on a booking. So do ask local people for the exact bus timings. No other means of transport is readily accessible so set your schedules so that you can easily catch the bus.
5. Don't worry about food and shops they are readily available.Shops are available in Chopta so you can quickly get started for the trek and buy some snacks, water, etc. Hotels are also available so you can eat a full meal. The quality of food is not five stars, but it's very much filled with flavour to pump you up for the trek.
6. The trails are comfortable, so there is no need for a guide.The trails are accessible so there will be no problem in finding the way to the temple. It will take you approx. 3-5 hours to reach Tungnath.
7. Stay at Tungnath for the night so that you can see the sunrise at Chandrashila.Stay near the temple for the night. People are amiable and welcoming they will help you with the food and all the other necessary things. They will provide you with dinner and bed. Try to wake up early morning (5 am) and start with the trek. It's a 2 km stretch, and the inclination is high so be prepared for it. Try to reach before sunrise and have a fantastic view of Chandrashila. The best part is when the sun rises, and the 1st light reaches your face, it gives the feeling of warmth love and beauty of nature. Sunrise Pictures are best you can even try time lapse it works fabulously.
8. Winters or summers the condition is cold so be prepared for the nights and early mornings. Temperature varies from 12-0 degrees and goes down below 0 in winters. So, try and take jackets and appropriate clothes with you.
9. NO high-tech gears required for this trek (harsh winters may require crampons for Chandrashila)No high-tech equipment is needed because trails are easily visible. High-end equipment can be necessary if you are trekking in harsh winters. Try to avoid the months of hard winter like Jan, Feb.Try for the autumn season because the sky will be clear, it will not be too cold, and the view for the peaks will be the best.

I am Ranjak Verma 22, Indian. I write blogs on trekking, travelling and food for details you can visit my website (www.trekkingfiles.com)