Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Chopta Uttarakhand

Chopta is getting popular as a tourist destination since last few years. Situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand state, Chopta is also known as mini Switzerland. Chopta is situated at an elevation of 2,600mts above sea level amidst dense forest. Enchanting views of the Himalayas is visible from Chopta. Chopta is the initiation point of the trek to famous Tungnath Mandir. The region is rich in varied flora and fauna. Rhododendron and deodar trees are found in abundant here.

Chopta is well connected by motorable roads and it lies on the Ukhimath – Gopeshwar road. It is one of the most picturesque spot of Uttaranchal state as the natural splendours seen from here are very diverse. Chopta is an offbeat destination and it acts as an interesting tourist getaway for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Chopta is situated on the Chandra Parbat and its most popular excursion are Tungnath Mandir and Chandrashila Peak. Tungnath Mandir is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Chandrashila is the highest point of the mountain on which Chopta is situated.
Places to See in Chopta

Tungnath Mandir: Situated at an astounding elevation of 3680mts above sea level, Tungnath Mandir is one of the Panch Kedar and highest temple of Lord Shiva. Tungnath Mandir can be reached by a 3.5km trek starting from Chopta. Ironically Tungnath Mandir the highest amongst Panch Kedar is easiest one to reach. The trek to Tungnath Mandir is easy but steep and tiring. Accommodation options are available at Tungnath Mandir. The temple remains closed from November to March.

Chandrashila: It is the highest point of the mountain on which Chopta and Tungnath Mandir is located. Chandrashila is situated at a breathtaking altitude of 4,000mts above sea level. Invigorating views of the 270 degree Himalayan range is distinctly visible from Chandrashila. It is located 1.5 km further of Tungnath Temple which makes it 5kms from Chopta.

Gopeshwar: It is situated 39kms from Chopta at an elevation of 1,500mts above sea level. Gopeshwar is the headquarters of Chamoli district of Uttarakhand state.

Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary: It is situated 7km from Chopta on Chopta – Gopeshwar Road. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary is famous for breeding musk deer’s. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 5 square kilometres. It is an ideal place for tourists who loves animals and are looking for rare Himalayan wildlife.

Ukhimath: Situated 31kms from Chopta, Ukhimath is the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath. The idol of Lord Kedarnath is worshipped in Ukhimath during winters as the region of Kedarnath is prone to heavy snowfall during winters. The temples of Usha and Anirudh, Shiva and Parvati are worth a visit.

Deoria Tal: Perched at an elevation of 2438mts above sea level, Deoria Tal is a lake holding pristine water with captivating surroundings. The reflections of Chaukhamba peaks on the crystal clear water of Deoria Tal creats a magical world. Deoria Tal can be reached by an easy trek of 2km from Sari village located on Ukhimath – Gopeshwar road.

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