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Known as India’s “Mini Switzerland,” Chopta is a calm and beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand. The place is known for its undisturbed magnificence and captivating geography and there can’t be a better place than this for all adventure lovers and nature seekers. You will find some unique and magical places to visit in Chopta that will let you connect with nature and allow you to take in the region’s tranquillity. Visiting Chopta will enable you to hike through the lively forests, explore all the age-old temples, and stare at the quiet lakes. Chopta will also offer spectacular sights of the Himalayas and allow you to take in the fresh and crisp mountain ambience.
10 Places To Visit In Chopta
Here is a list of places to visit in Chopta which has gained popularity because of its peaceful surroundings and incredible terrain.
1. Tungnath
Tuganath has earned a reputation as the highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and sits at an altitude of 3,680 metres. Included among the “Panch Kedar” sanctums in the state of Uttarakhand, it is not hard to understand its importance. With a history of construction for about 1000 years, the temple holds immense importance amongst Hindus and as per the Mythology, the temple is the place where the arms of Lord Shiva were spotted when he turned himself into a bull to escape Pandavas.
Timings: 24*7
2. Deoria Tal
Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons
A freshwater lake located at an elevation of 2,438 meters, Deoria Tal is a soothing lake with water so clear as glass that you can easily see the reflection of mountains in it. Encircled with lush greenery, it helps boost the wildlife and avian population of the region. It also has a strong connection to Hindu Mythology and has its reference to Mahabharata. It’s said that this was the very place where the Pandavas encountered Yaksha. Camping overnight is also available near Deoria Tal which gives you an experience of a lifetime of stargazing.
Timings: 24*7
3. Chandrashila
Standing at 4,000 metres, the Chandrashila Peak is the finishing point of the Tungnath trek. Once you reach this spot, you will get to witness a 360-degree view of the Himalayan range like Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Kedarnath. It’s believed that Chandrashila is the site where Lord Ram meditated, making it an important place for all the devotees out there and the same place has its association with the Moon God, Chandra. Furthermore, at the top of Chandrashila, there is a small temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga.
Timings: 24*7
4. Ukhimath
Photo: Vvnataraj / Wikimedia Commons
Standing high at 1,300 metres, Ukhimath is one of the best Chopta tourist places, and it’s also called the winter house of Lord Kedarnath. When Kedarnath gets buried deep in snow, the idols are shifted to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath so now you know why the title. This spot lures nature buffs and devotees, and the temple here carries an ancient charm as it’s decorated with unique architecture that reflects the faith and local customs. Ukhimath is enveloped by the Himalayan views, you get a view of Kedarnath and Chaukhambha.
Timings: 24*7
5. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Covering an area of 5 sq. km., this sanctuary is a haven for musk deer, which is known for its unique feature, the musk gland, and plays a crucial role in preserving their population. Located amidst the dense forest consisting of oak, pine and rhododendron trees, Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary also has other inhabitants like Pheasants and Himalaya Monals. The site is an outstanding place for nature walks and even birdwatching. To enhance your experience, just take a pair of binoculars and catch a glimpse of some of the most unique animals and birds.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
6. Madhyamaheshwar Mandir
Photo: Bodhisattwa / Wikimedia Commons
Located at 3,200 metres, the Madhyamaheshwar Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is amongst one of the Panch Kedar Temples in Uttarakhand. This ancient temple worships the stomach of Lord Shiva and is one of the most revered sites for Hindu devotees. The temple has its connection to the Mahabharata and is believed that the navel and stomach of Lord Shiva appeared here when turned himself into a bull to escape Pandavas. The temple is surrounded by alpine green meadows on one side and the snow-covered Himalayan peaks on the other side, which is a sight to behold.
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
7. Rohini Bugyal
Photo: Vaibhav78545 / Wikimedia Commons
Indeed one of the most alluring places in Uttarakhand, Rohini Bugyal is a place famous for trekking through meadows and the name Rohini Bugyal translates to green meadows. It takes about 1 to 2 hours of trekking from Chopta to reach the place and takes you through the lush greenery mainly dominated by oak, deodar, and rhododendron, common to the Himalayas region. The greenery makes the area adored by the birds and you might spot a few on your way to trekking. This site is the best place to visit when you’re planning to escape the crowded city life.
Timings: 24*7
8. Dugalbitta
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This is Uttarakhand’s hidden hamlet, which has been completely overlooked because of other famous and cliched destinations. Located in the Wildlife Sanctuary, this place serves the best to those who seek calmness while observing nature closely. Birdwatchers particularly will find this place a heaven for it houses some of the Himalayan bird species like Blood Pheasants, Himalayan Monal, and Koklass Pheasants. It also serves as the base for some of the famous and adventure-filled trekking routes and famous spots like Chadrashila and Tungnath.
Timings: 24*7
9. Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev
Photo: Chandan Parihar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Situated near the Deoria Tal, the Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple is devoted to Nag Devta, the serpent king from the Hindu stories. The temple has a garbhagriha and mandap which is a typical architectural style in Uttarakhand. Another fascinating thing about the temple is the unique copper structure that encircles the main idol which is of a serpent. You will have to trek from the Sari Village through the lush greenery while you adore the magnificent view of the Himalayan region throughout.
Timings: 24*7
10. Sari Village
Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons
Sari Village or Sari Gaon sits highly at 7,800 feet and has to be on your itinerary when visiting Chopta. The village is a charming place and ideal for learning how mountain people lead a life, and it also serves as the base for the Deoria Tal, Tuganath, Chopta, and Chandrashila Trek. With untouched beauty, a dense forest where nature is prominent, and pristine views of the mighty Himalayas, Sari Village is a place one of a kind.
Timings: 24*7
Chopta is filled with spectacular terrains and artistic richness. With its manifold attractions, it offers something for every sightseer. If you are planning to stay in the Chopta, there is no better way to understand and witness the rich culture and traditions. From quiet lakes to archaic temples, each place tells a remarkable saga. Plan a trip with TripXL and create exceptional memories in this enchanting destination.
Cover Photo: ankit mishra / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
