Chopta trek with local guide, camping & Rishikesh pickup

Summary

Chopta trekking adventure from Rishikesh with camping nights

You’ll hike through Himalayan forests from Sari village to Deoria Tal lake and Chandrashilla Peak with a local guide by your side. Expect hot chai at sunrise, home-cooked Garhwali dinners by bonfire light, and quiet moments watching mountain goats near Tungnath Temple — memories that stick long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to wake up in a tent somewhere above Sari village, the air so cold your breath fogs up the chai? That’s how our Chopta trek started — well, after a long drive from Rishikesh where we stopped at Devprayag. Our guide Vikram pointed out the exact spot where two rivers meet to become the Ganges. It’s louder than you’d think, that water. By the time we reached Sari (the road gets twisty), I was already half in love with those peach orchards and the way everyone waved as we passed. We had chai with a family who barely spoke English but somehow made us feel like old friends. The trek up to camp wasn’t easy for me — I’ll admit it — but when we finally sat by the bonfire under a sky just packed with stars, I forgot about my legs.

The next morning was all dew and birdsong. Breakfast was simple but hot (I still dream about that paratha). We set off through the forest towards Deoria Tal lake — about 2.5km, mostly gentle uphill. There’s this moment when you break out of the trees and see the water: glassy calm, reflecting snowy peaks behind it. Someone said you could see Nanda Devi if you squint right at sunrise; I’m not sure if I did or not. On the way back down through Rohini Bugyal meadow, there were wildflowers everywhere and our guide told us which ones are used for local medicine. He laughed when I tried to pronounce “Bugyal” properly — probably butchered it.

The real test came before dawn on day three: up at 4am for more chai (it’s basically fuel here) and then a slow climb to Chandrashilla Peak for sunrise. My hands were freezing but I didn’t care once that pink light hit the mountains — honestly, I just stood there grinning like an idiot. Afterward we walked down to Tungnath Temple, which is apparently the highest Shiva temple in the world. There were mountain goats picking their way around us and some pilgrims lighting incense; everything smelled faintly of smoke and pine needles.

It’s funny how quickly you settle into mountain rhythms — early mornings, quiet afternoons watching birds near Chopta village, evenings around another bonfire swapping stories with locals over dinner (the dal here is different somehow). The drive back to Rishikesh felt long but peaceful; maybe because part of me didn’t want to leave yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rishikesh to Sari Village Trek

• Stop at Devprayag
• Trek to Sari Village and camp

Day 2 — Forest Walk to Deoria Tal Lake

• Walk to Deoria Tal Lake
• Pass Rohini Bugyal meadow

Day 3 — Chandrashilla Peak and Tungnath Temple

• Sunrise at Chandrashilla Peak and visit Tungnath Temple

Day 4 — Return to Rishikesh

• Drive back to Rishikesh

Top questions

How do I get from Rishikesh to Chopta for this trek?

The tour includes private transportation from Rishikesh directly to Chopta with stops along the way.

Is there a local guide during the Chopta trek?

Yes, a local guide accompanies you throughout the Chopta trek experience.

What kind of accommodation is provided on this Chopta trek?

You’ll spend one night camping near Sari village and other nights in homestays in Chopta.

Are meals included during the Chopta trekking tour?

Dinners are home-cooked by local families; breakfast is also included each day.

How difficult is the Chopta trek from Sari village?

The trek requires moderate fitness; some uphill sections can be challenging but manageable for most travelers.

Is pickup included for this Chopta trekking tour?

Yes, pickup from Rishikesh is included in your booking.

What are some highlights of this day trip Machu Picchu Cusco style experience?

The highlights include Deoria Tal lake views, Chandrashilla Peak sunrise, Tungnath Temple visit, and cultural interactions in villages.

Are camping equipment and permits included?

Campsite setup, sleeping bags, forest entry fees and permissions are all included in your tour package.

What’s included

Your journey includes private transportation from Rishikesh with all forest entry fees covered; camping equipment and sleeping bags are provided for your first night under Himalayan stars; homestay accommodations follow; every day features traditional meals prepared by locals plus guidance throughout each walk or climb — so you just focus on soaking it all in.