Famously called as “mini Switzerland”, the town Chopta is fast becoming an ideal destination for family or solo outing. Situated in Rudraprayag district of Chhattisgarh, Chopta is small town encompassed by dense forests. One can get a majestic view of snow clad Himalayan ranges amidst the green meadows present there. If you love trekking then you can start from here to trek to the famous Panch Kedar Mandir and Chandrashila summit. With a plenty of Deodar and Rhododendron trees you can see a varied flora and fauna here. There are over 41 prominent peaks providing 180 degree perspective of the greater Himalaya and 360 degree panoramic view of close mountains. More than 550 species of birds and 120 species of animals can be found here. Just keep a check on the train number 12138 running status and come to visit the best of natural paradise. Here are few places to visit in the Chopta valley.
- Tungnath Temple: Located at an altitude of 3.6 kms above sea level, Tungnath temple is part of the Panch Kedar and is also the highest Lord Shiva temple in the world. You can reach there easily by trekking 3.5 km from Chopta. As amazing as it sounds, Tungnath is the highest Panch Kedar and is equally easily reachable too. You can easily find a stay here but the temple stay closed from November to March.
- Chandrashila: Located at the height of 4 km above sea level, Chandrashila is the highest point where Chopta and Tungnath temples are located. Chandrashila offers a great view of the Himalayan range and it is located 1.5 km from Tungnath temple.
- Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary: Located on Chopta- Gopeshwar Road, the sanctuary lies 7 km from Chopta. Famous for breeding musk deers, the sanctuary occupies an area of 5 square km. If you love wildlife, then this is the place for you to hangout.
- Known as the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath, Ukhimath is located 30 kilometers from Chopta. Most people come here to worship the idol of Lord Kedarnath in winters instead of Kedarnath as the place receives a heavy snowfall. While here you must visit the temples of Usha- Aniruddha and Shiva – Parvati.
- Deoria Tal: Sitting at a height of 2.4 kms above sea level, Deoria Tal is a lake of holy water with astounding surroundings. What takes the ice is the reflections of Chaukhamba peaks in the pristine water of the lake. You can easily reach there by trekking 2km from Sari Village.
So, visit the town to see all the worries go into the bin and calming your senses. Visit Chopta to have a close talk with mother nature.