Quick Answer: Chopta is ~160 km / 6-7 hours from Dehradun via Rudraprayag-Ukhimath. Tungnath (3,680 m, world's highest Shiva temple) is a 3.5 km trek; Chandrashila summit (4,000 m) 1.5 km further. Temple opened 22 April 2026, closes early-mid November; Sept-Oct is the best window. Anywhere Taxi Service cabs: +91-7830211223.
Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila is the perfect post-monsoon trip from Dehradun: the world’s highest Shiva temple at 3,680 m, a 4,000 m summit with a 360° Himalayan panorama, and meadows that turn golden in autumn. With the Tungnath kapat expected to close in early–mid November 2026, September–October is the best window left — crystal-clear skies, no monsoon mud, and thin crowds. Here’s the complete 2026 guide with route, trek facts and taxi options from Dehradun.
Chopta & Tungnath 2026: Opening & Closing Dates
- Temple opening 2026: 22 April 2026 (kapat udghatan by Badri Kedar Temple Committee)
- Expected closing 2026: early–mid November (around Bhai Dooj, ~4–10 Nov)
- Winter seat: deity worshipped at Makkumath (Markandeya Temple) till spring
- Winter treks: the trail stays open Dec–Mar for snow treks with a local guide & crampons
- Darshan timing: 7:00 AM–12:00 PM and 3:00–7:00 PM (closed 12–3 PM)
Best Time to Visit: Why September–October Wins
Post-monsoon is the locals’ favourite window: the rain has washed the air clean, so the Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi and Trishul ranges are razor-sharp from Chandrashila. May–June gives blooming rhododendrons; late October gives crowd-free, cold, spiritual vibes just before the kapat. Right now (mid-August to October) is prime time.
Dehradun to Chopta: Route, Distance & Travel Time
Chopta is approximately 160 km / 6–7 hours from Dehradun: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar (Garhwal) → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Duggalbitta → Chopta. The last stretch is a steep forest climb — an experienced hill driver matters. See our Dehradun to Chopta taxi service for vehicle options.
Trek Facts at a Glance (2026)
| Point | Altitude | Distance (one way) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chopta (base) | 2,680 m | — | — |
| Tungnath Temple | 3,680 m | 3.5 km stone trail | 2.5–3.5 hr up |
| Chandrashila Summit | 4,000 m | +1.5 km | +1–1.5 hr |
| Round trip | — | ~11–12 km | 6–8 hr |
Forest entry fee approx ₹150 (3-day validity). Difficulty: easy–moderate; doable for fit families; ponies available on request at Chopta.
2–3 Day Itinerary from Dehradun
- Day 1: Dehradun → Chopta (160 km). Sunset at the meadow viewpoint; overnight in Chopta camps/homestays.
- Day 2: 5 AM start → Tungnath darshan → Chandrashila summit → descend → drive to Ukhimath/Rudraprayag or return to Chopta.
- Day 3 (optional): combine Kedarnath (via Sonprayag) or Deoria Tal lake trek before driving back.
Dehradun to Chopta Taxi Fare (2026)
| Vehicle | Seats | Best For | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swift Dzire | 4 | Couples / solo trekkers | On request (hill route) |
| Ertiga | 6–7 | Small trek groups | On request (hill route) |
| Innova Crysta | 6–7 | Comfort on 6–7 hr climb | On request (hill route) |
| Tempo Traveller | 9–17 | Trek groups | On request |
Fixed all-inclusive quotes on call — driver charges included, tolls as applicable. Round-trip packages with Chopta/Ukhimath halts available. Call/WhatsApp +91-7830211223.
What to Carry & Safety Tips
- Warm layers even in September (summit wind-chill 5–10°C), rain shell, grip shoes, 2L water.
- Start the trek by 5–6 AM for clear summit views; clouds build by noon.
- Cash — ATMs end at Ukhimath; network is patchy above Duggalbitta.
- Winter (Dec–Mar) treks: local guide + microspikes mandatory.
Book Your Chopta Taxi from Dehradun
Anywhere Taxi Service (4.8★, 199+ reviews) runs 24/7 cabs on the Chopta–Ukhimath–Kedarnath corridor with verified Garhwal drivers. Call/WhatsApp +91-7830211223 or book at anywherecab.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't worry about complex routes, toll networks, or mountain driving. Book a certified AC cab with Anywhere Taxi Service for Dehradun city, Airport transfers, Chardham Yatra, and Outstation trips at highly transparent, budget-friendly rates.
Reserve Your Cab Now