Uttarakhand is often referred to as ‘Dev Bhoomi’ – which literally translates to – ‘land of the GODS’, and those who have had the chance to witness the natural beauty of this hilly-state, will know and understand why.
While there are many transcendental places in this godly state, that are certain to make you feel a sense of oneness – not just with nature but also with yourself, today we’re going to talk about a small, somewhat unexplored and undisturbed region, that has lately been transforming into a hotspot for vloggers.
Let us explore Chopta…
Located in the Garhwal region, 56 KM’s from the famous district of – Rudryaprag, Chopta is laden with strikingly green meadows and evergreen forests. This heavenly abode of the GODS is largely unsung, and perhaps why remains serene and relatively untouched – at least in comparison to some other popular hill stations of the state.
Located at a height of 2,680 metres from sea level, this place is primarily popular for being the base point of trekking to the divine – Tungnath temple – a site of historical, cultural and religious importance. At a height of approx 3,680 meters, Tungnath is the third temple of Panch Kedar and is thus of utmost importance, if you plan to do the complete pilgrimage.
Take a look at it’s serene trek below:
The entire three to four hour long, steep trek to the temple is surrounded by green hills, and gives a beautiful view of Trishul, Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba ranges of the Himalayas, with it’s nearby forest boasting of pine, deodar and rhododendron.
Said to be built by the Pandavas, Tungnath – which is considered the highest shiva temple in the world, sees several visitations throughout the year, from people of all regions of the country. The literal translation of Tungnath – is ‘lord of the peaks’, which beautifully sums up, it being the highest house of worship in the world of Lord Shiva.
Here’s a peak at the awe-inspiring historical temple site:
A few KM’s at an upward slow from this temple complex, is another spot which attracts unorthodox and adventurous travellers – Chandrasheela.
Primarily famous for being the summit of the Tungnath mountain ranges – Chandrasheela sits tall and proud at a height of 4,000 meters above sea level and a view, so breathtaking, that no camera in the world would be able to capture it’s beauty.
Being at the top of this mountain after an extremely difficult and somewhat risky trek, you’d be able to view the beautiful Himalayan ranges of Nandadevi, Trisul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch and Chaukhamba peaks – that is, if you’re lucking and they’re not covered by clouds. But even if they are, the view is going to be a breathtaking one, nevertheless.
Take a look yourself:
Like several other travel spots in Uttarakhand, Chopta gains it’s significance from being an important site of worship for Hindus. The state, which hosts, a vast majority of some of the most important religious sites in Hinduism – is laden with both archaeological and natural beauty, and Chopta is just many of it’s glorious offerings.
Have you had the chance to visit this godly place yet?