Also known as mini Switzerland, Chopta is located at a height of 2680 m above sea level. This hill station is gaining popularity as a tourist spot over the years. The Chopta hill station is located in the Rudraprayag district in the state of Uttarakhand. Located amidst dense forests, this hilly town is known for its natural beauty and splendid views. The enchanting Himalayas, visible from Chopta add a lot of beauty to this place.

This place is ideal for family holidays and for those who love to explore beautiful hill stations. The state of Uttarakhand in Northern India is known for its beautifulhill stations, each of which is unique in its own way. But Chopta is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque. One main reason for this is that it is non-commercialized and has raw untouched beauty. The amazing views of imposing Himalayas, the dense forest cover and the natural beauty of this place make it so special.

This mini Switzerland is just only 36 km from Gopeshwar and 254 km from Rishikesh. It is located at a distance of 450 km from the Indian capital, New Delhi. Here, you can connect with nature as well as with the local villagers to know more about their history and culture. Tourists from all across the country as well as from abroad soak in the most imposing views of the peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba and many others.

As far as natural beauty is concerned, Chopta has a rich forest cover and has a wide range of flora and fauna. Dodar and pine forests covering the region give it an exquisite appeal. The popularity of the hill station is increasing rapidly also because it is a base for many other hill spots like Deoriya Taal etc.

Apart from nature lovers, adventure lovers from far and wide can also visit this place and experience the thrilling activities that can be carried out here. Trekking, skiing and bird watching are some activities that you can enjoy here. Depending upon your preferences, Chopta can be visited during summers as well as winters.

History

The history of Chopta is extremely rich and fascinating. The history of this place reveals the charming and interesting facts about traditions and customs of the people of this place. Traces of historic events that happened here can be witnessed once you visit this place. Most of the tourist spots here have historic significance. Getting familiar with the history of Chopta is the best way to learn about the traditions and customs of this place.

Climate

Chopta has a temperature variation between 10ᵒC and 30ᵒC in the months of March, April and May. This means that the weather is cool and pleasant during this period. Monsoon starts in the month of July and lasts till October and winters last from November to March. During winter season, this hill station experience snowfall. The temperature ranges from -15ᵒC to 15 ᵒC. It starts to snow in November and increases then on. 4 to 7 inch thick layer of snow can be seen here during January. Chopta is fully covered with snow during winters and due to this, the roads may also be blocked at times. Since during summers, Chopta has cloudy skies, a very clear view of the Himalayas cannot be seen from June to august. The clear skies during winters offer a clear view of the snow clad Himalayan peaks. This amazing 360 degrees view of the Himalayan peaks is simply breathtaking.

Things to do

Camping

This tiny hamlet is still not fully explored by travelers and tourists. Camping is just the perfect thing to do here if you want to get in touch with nature. The serenity offered by the verdant hills of Chopta is beyond compare. Camping here completely rejuvenates and renews you from within.

Trekking

While in Chopta, trekking is a wonderful activity that you can indulge in. Here, the most scenic mountain trekking can be enjoyed. Trekking is Chopta is a truly adventurous activity.

Explore

Exploring the ancient temples and the history of Chopta is an enriching experience.

Attractions

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

There is a dense cover of temperate and alpine trees in this sanctuary.

Bugyal

The meadows of this region are a treat for the eyes.

Deoriya Tal

This beautiful lake lies beneath the Chukhumba Peak and is surrounded completely by forests. This lake offers mesmerizing views and complete solitude.

Tungnath Mandir

This ancient temple 3.5 km away from Chopta and you can trek up to this temple. This is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world. This temple is more than a thousand years old. This sacred temple is also visited also for its aesthetic appeal. Located at an altitude of 3,500 m above sea level, splendid views can be seen from here.

Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary

This sanctuary, locate 7 km away from Chopta, this sanctuary is known for breeding deer.

Accommodations

Chopta is a place where nature can be viewed and experienced at its best and is therefore ideal for vacations. Here are a few places where you can consider for staying while you are in Chopta:

Mayadeep Herbal Resort

With well appointed rooms, this resort offers and very comfortable stay. The staff will also help you plan out activities like trekking, bird watching etc.

Duggal Bittha

This is another place to stay located in Rudraprayag.

Magpie Camps Eco Tourist Resort

Here, facilities for adventure activities are provided. This place has Swiss tents for guests.

How to Reach

By Air

The Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun is the nearest airport. It is 226 km away from Chopta.

By Rail

The nearest major railway station is the railhead at Rishikesh which is 200 km away.

By Road

Chopta is well connected by roads and buses and cabs can be are easily available from nearby towns and cities.