Chopta is getting popular as a tourist destination since last few
years. Chopta region is rich in varied flora and fauna. Rhododendron and
deodar trees are found in abundant here. It is one of the most
picturesque spot of Uttaranchal state as the natural splendours seen
from here are very diverse. Chopta is an offbeat destination and it acts
as an interesting tourist getaway for trekking enthusiasts and nature
lovers.
Major Attractions of Chopta
- Dense forest of Kedarnath Wild Life Sanctuary, where temperate and alpine trees are found in abundance. Trees like, oak, pine, burans and many other big size Himalayan species occupy major land part of Chopta Uttarakhand region.
- 41 prominent peaks ( Meru-Sumeru, Ganesh parwat, Chaukhamba, Bandar poonch, Neel kanth, Trisuli, Nanda Devi etc.) with 180 degree view of Greater Himalaya panoramic and 360 degree round close view of mountains.
- Innumerable species of flowers and herbs and there are lot of things which are rest to be named or identified.
- More than 551 species of birds and 121 species of big size mammals.
- Grass land patches (Bugyal/ Meadows) amidst dense forest of Chopta.
- Small streams, rivulets, fall.
- Gentle alpine grassland slops.
- Atrimuni fall
Places to See in Chopta and Near Chopta
Tungnath Mandir: Situated at an astounding elevation
of 3680mts above sea level, Tungnath Mandir is one of the Panch Kedar
and highest temple of Lord Shiva. Tungnath Mandir can be reached by a
3.5km trek starting from Chopta. Ironically Tungnath Mandir the highest
amongst Panch Kedar is easiest one to reach. The trek to Tungnath Mandir
is easy but steep and tiring. Accommodation options are available at
Tungnath Mandir. The temple remains closed from November to March.
Chandrashila: It is the highest point of the
mountain on which Chopta and Tungnath Mandir is located. Chandrashila is
situated at a breathtaking altitude of 4,000mts above sea level.
Invigorating views of the 270 degree Himalayan range is distinctly
visible from Chandrashila. It is located 1.5 km further of Tungnath Temple which makes it 5kms from Chopta.
Gopeshwar: It is situated 39kms from Chopta at an elevation of 1,500mts above sea level. Gopeshwar is the headquarters of Chamoli district of Uttarakhand state.
Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary: It is situated
7km from Chopta on Chopta – Gopeshwar Road. Kanchula Korak Musk Deer
Sanctuary is famous for breeding musk deer’s. This sanctuary is spread
over an area of 5 square kilometres. It is an ideal place for tourists
who loves animals and are looking for rare Himalayan wildlife.
Ukhimath: Situated 31kms from Chopta, Ukhimath is the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath.
The idol of Lord Kedarnath is worshipped in Ukhimath during winters as
the region of Kedarnath is prone to heavy snowfall during winters. The
temples of Usha and Anirudh, Shiva and Parvati are worth a visit.
Deoria Tal: Perched at an elevation of 2438mts above sea level, Deoria Tal
is a lake holding pristine water with captivating surroundings. The
reflections of Chaukhamba peaks on the crystal clear water of Deoria Tal
creats a magical world. Deoria Tal can be reached by an easy trek of
2km from Sari village located on Ukhimath – Gopeshwar road.
