Chandrashila

Peak above Tungnath temple in Uttarakhand, India

Chandrashila

Location in northern India

LocationUttarakhand, IndiaParent rangeGarhwal Himalaya

Chandrashila is the summit above Tungnath temple in India. It literally means "Moon Rock". It is located at a height of about 3,690 metres (12,110 ft) above sea level. This peak provides views of the Himalayas, including Nandadevi, Trisul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch and Chaukhamba peaks. There are various legends associated with this place. According to one such legend, this is where Rama meditated after defeating the demon-king Ravana. Another legend says that the moon-god Chandra spent time here in penance.^[1]

Accessibility

Chopta is accessible by bus and is also connected by motor roads with the major towns of Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state.

The nearest railhead to Chopta is Rishikesh situated 209 km away.

Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Chopta, situated 226 km away in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand state.

Trekking

Chandrashila treks are one of the most popular treks among Indian trekking enthusiasts. The trek to the peak is 5 km. The trek route that starts from Chopta takes one to Tungnath (highest Shiva temple in the world), from here it is a kilometre long, and a steep trek. Though shorter in distance, steep climbing makes this trek rigorous.

This trek is undertaken throughout the year although during the winter season due to snowfall this trek becomes hard as road to Chopta is closed. Trekkers use a different route during this period (Deoria Tal - Duggalbitta - Tungnath - Chandrashila).^[2]

References

^ "Chopta - Chopta Uttarakhand Hill Station Travel Guide 2021".
^ "Trek: Chandrashila Top, Camping and trekking in Himalayas". Archived from the original on 1 September 2009. Retrieved 2009-11-18.