Why Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trekking Should Be On Your October Bucket List

Why the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek should be on your October bucket list. Credit: Canva

The summit of Chandrashila offers a feast of mountain views that are hard to find even in the best of weather. To your left, the Gangotri range of peaks including Mount Thalaysagar, Kedarnath Kedar Dome, Mandani Parbat and Janhukut will greet you. The imposing Chaukhamba, over 7,000 metres high, dominates the view right in front of you. To your right, Gauri Parbat, Hathi Parbat and Dunagiri create a stunning backdrop. But what really catches your eye is undoubtedly Mount Nanda Devi, India’s highest mountain, which rises majestically against the horizon right before your eyes.

While we don’t need to give you more reasons to undertake the Deoriatal Chandrashila TrekIt is also one of the few winter treks in India that travelers can choose from.

Deoriatal-Chandrashila trekking route

This moderate trek, which takes about 6 days, begins from the village of Sari, about an 8-hour drive from Rishikesh. The well-defined rocky trail leading to Deoriatal begins with a gentle climb, offering a chance to take the trek at an easy pace. After about 15 minutes, you’ll come across quaint village houses and an ancient temple, giving you a glimpse of the local way of life. Keep an eye out for the majestic Chandrashila peak and the sacred Tungnath Temple Located in the valley (Tungnath Temple is only accessible during the summer months and closes on Diwali), you’ll camp near Deoriatal, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by lush meadows and towering peaks.

The next day, you will embark on the next stage of your adventure: you will reach Syalmi camp, which can be reached via Rohini Bugyal, a beautiful meadow where you can also rest. The fourth day is reserved for reaching Baniya Kund. Your journey will involve crossing the Akash Kamini stream, a refreshing stream perfect for refilling your water bottles. As you gradually ascend with a series of bends, the valley unfolds before you in all its splendour. Reaching a meadow with shepherds’ huts marks a turning point. Turn right here to reach Baniya Kund camp, which serves as a base for the final ascent to Chandrashila Peak.

On the last day, you will reach the top of Chandrashila peak and visit Tungnath temple on the way. At Chandrashila there is another temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to have been built by Lord Ram to atone for the sin of killing Ravan. After enjoying some amazing views, you can head back to Chopta, from where you can take a taxi to Rishikesh.

Best time to trek to Chandrashila

The ideal time to undertake the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek is from March to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the trails are free of snow. The trek is also open in winter and the trail is covered with snow.

Level of difficulty

The Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty. While it does not require any great technical skills, it does involve some climbs and uneven terrain.

Accommodation

Accommodation options along the route range from basic campsites to homestays and guesthouses. Most trekking companies arrange Swiss-style tent accommodation, as camping is a popular option among trekkers.

Things to bring

Permissions

A permit is required for the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek, which can be obtained from the Forest Department office in Rudraprayag.