Chopta – the bejeweled tourist destination in Uttarakhand – have become a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand. With its idyllic natural beauty which comprises of lush green meadows, salubrious weather and magnificent views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks, Chopta is an ideal destination to camp with family, friends and you better half. A time well spent amidst the nature away from the crowded cities at camps in Chopta instills the calmness and clarity.

Camping in Chopta is a gaining recognition, especially among youngsters and college goers who plan weekend trips to the mountains with their friends. Adventure enthusiasts can set up tents at Chopta and go for a short trek to the revered Tungnath (world’s highest Shiva temple) and Chandrashila which involves 4-km trek from Chopta. The enchanting beauty that encapsulates the region around Chopta grasps the traveler like a spell.

While campers can carry their own tents, Swiss tents are also available on rent during the tourist season. Several campsites are available at Chopta which besides tent accommodation, also provide other facilities and amenities.  Camping activities such as Burma Bridge, rappelling and rock climbing are also available at some campsites.

Bird Watching in Chopta region (include Devariyatal)

Bird watching is one of the most popular recreational activities preferred by the tourist and travelers visiting Chopta and Devariyatal as the abundant natural beauty in the form of lush greenery draws large number of bird species. More than 500 species of birds have been documented in the high altitude regions of Uttarakhand. Some of the often-sighted birds in Chopta and its vicinity are Himalayan monal, Cheer pheasant, red Helen, jungle babbler and great slaty woodpecker. Devariyatal near Chopta is another bird watcher’s paradise due to its secluded location and calm atmosphere which attracts both residential and migratory birds.

Since bird watching requires no more than binoculars and keen sense of perception, it is the least expensive hobby to indulge in. Spotting myriad species of birds with your eyes in their natural habitat is a rewarding experience for nature lovers. For solitary souls looking for private time with nature, bird watching is an ideal recreational sport to pursue as it allows our mind to settle down and our help senses open up. Once your interest piques in bird watching, it is like getting a lifetime ticket to the theater of nature.

Trekking in Chopta and Devariyatal

Referred to as ‘Mini Switzerland of India’ by nature lovers, Chopta is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Uttarakhand. Apart from the spellbinding natural beauty with lofty Himalayan peaks in the background, Chopta is also an ideal trekking site, especially for beginners as the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila trek is relatively short and easy as compared to other treks in Uttarakhand. The trek to Devariyatal from Saari village is another beautiful trek to the enchanting lake one shouldn’t miss when in Chopta.

Trek from Chopta to Tungnath temple, which is the highest Shiva temple in the world (3,680 m), is one of the most rewarding treks as it offers panoramic views of Himalayan peaks such as Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Nanda Devi etc. The 360 degree Himalayan view for the Chandrashila summit, which is just 400 meters from Tungnath, is forever etched in your mind.

Some avid and experienced trekkers use a different route during this period (Deoria Tal – Duggalbitta – Tungnath – Chandrashila).Trekking gears are also available for rent at Chopta and Devariyatal for tourists along with accommodation facilities such as camps and guesthouses with basic amenities.