One of my dreams come true.. Used to see the pictures on social media and wanted to trek this place. Planned to go with Wow club, the ladies group but due to various reasons couldn't book. Later checked to go with trek the Himalayas group but couldn't get train tickets from Delhi to Haridwar. Disappointed and was casually googling if I could find something. Luckily got a ladies group called Women on clouds who offered this trek along with train tickets. Without any thought just booked the trip. But it was for only 4 days and it was really hectic. If anyone planning for this trek, please have 1 more day so that you can really have energy and also enjoy the trip at peace, just a suggestion.!
About the place:
The trails of Garhwal Himalayas evoke thrill and adventure. Lofty terrains leading to the summit make for an incredible experience and the surrounding beauty leaves you enchanted. Chandrashila Trek with Chopta and Tungnath is one of the most exciting and challenging trails you can tread in Uttarakhand. Soaring up at 13000 feet, adorned with mists, coniferous, and snow, this is one heck of a trek you must take.The best part about the Chandrashila Trek is that it is a year-round trek.
Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world and is the highest of the five Panch Kedar temples located in the mountain range of Tunganath in Rudraprayag district, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The Tunganath (literal meaning: Lord of the peaks) mountains form the Mandakini and Alaknanda river valleys. Located at an altitude of 3,680 m (12,073 ft), and just below the peak of Chandrashila, Tungnath temple is the highest Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be 5000 years old and is the third (Tritiya Kedar) in the pecking order of the Panch Kedars. It has a rich legend linked to the Pandavas, heroes of the Mahabharata epic.
According to Hindu mythology Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati both reside in the Himalayas: Lord Shiva resides at Mount Kailash. Parvati is also called Shail Putri which means 'daughter of hills'.
The Tunganath is indelibly linked to the origin of the Panch Kedar temples built by the Pandavas. The legend states that sage Vyas Rishi advised the Pandavas that since they were culpable of slaying their own relatives (Kauravas, their cousins) during the Mahabharata war or Kurukshetra war, their act could be pardoned only by Lord Shiva. Consequently, the Pandavas went in search of Shiva who was avoiding them since he was convinced of the guilt of Pandavas. In order to keep away from them, Shiva took the form of a bull and went into hiding in an underground safe haven at Guptakashi, where Pandavas chased him. But later Shiva’s body in the form of bull’s body parts rematerialized at five different locations that represent the "Panch Kedar" where Pandavas built temples of Lord Shiva at each location, to worship and venerate, seeking his pardon and blessings. Each one is identified with a part of his body; Tungnath is identified as the place where the bahu (hands) were seen: hump was seen at Kedarnath; head appeared at Rudranath; his navel and stomach surfaced at Madhyamaheshwar; and his jata (hair or locks) at Kalpeshwar.
Legend also states that Lord Rama, meditated at the Chandrashila peak, which is close to Tungnath. It is also said that Ravana did penance to Shiva, the lord of the peaks, when he resided here.
Chandrashila Trek route: (29th March - 1st April, 2018)According to Hindu mythology Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati both reside in the Himalayas: Lord Shiva resides at Mount Kailash. Parvati is also called Shail Putri which means 'daughter of hills'.
The Tunganath is indelibly linked to the origin of the Panch Kedar temples built by the Pandavas. The legend states that sage Vyas Rishi advised the Pandavas that since they were culpable of slaying their own relatives (Kauravas, their cousins) during the Mahabharata war or Kurukshetra war, their act could be pardoned only by Lord Shiva. Consequently, the Pandavas went in search of Shiva who was avoiding them since he was convinced of the guilt of Pandavas. In order to keep away from them, Shiva took the form of a bull and went into hiding in an underground safe haven at Guptakashi, where Pandavas chased him. But later Shiva’s body in the form of bull’s body parts rematerialized at five different locations that represent the "Panch Kedar" where Pandavas built temples of Lord Shiva at each location, to worship and venerate, seeking his pardon and blessings. Each one is identified with a part of his body; Tungnath is identified as the place where the bahu (hands) were seen: hump was seen at Kedarnath; head appeared at Rudranath; his navel and stomach surfaced at Madhyamaheshwar; and his jata (hair or locks) at Kalpeshwar.
Legend also states that Lord Rama, meditated at the Chandrashila peak, which is close to Tungnath. It is also said that Ravana did penance to Shiva, the lord of the peaks, when he resided here.
Haridwar – Sari (base camp) – Deoria Tal – Chopta – Circuit (Chopta – Tungnath – Chandrashila Peak – Chopta) – Haridwar
Day 1:
We had reached Delhi railway station and met our gang at 6am. We boarded the Dehradun Shatabdi train that would reach Haridwar around 11.30am. Since we all came from different destinations, all were already tired and sleepy. Had introduced each other and slept off in the train.
Reached Haridwar station around 11.30am and got into our vehicles. We had our river rafting first after our lunch at Rishikesh. River rafting at Rishikesh is a must do. We completely enjoyed it. We also jumped in the Ganges and felt blessed. Due to less time, we couldnt see the Ganga Aarti thats famous there. And it was very crowded as it was a long weekend. We were all exhausted by then and just left for the camp to take good rest.
Our camp was Aspen Camp at Rishikesh. It was a small trek to reach down there and when we reached it was almost 7pm. It was dark and was fun walking down the slope to get down to the camp. The owner, Mr Ankit was very caring and friendly..interacted with all the guests in his camp. After good dinner we all retired to our tents to catch up good sleep so that we get recharged for our next day.
Day 2:
Morning we got ready by 7am and went out to see the beauty outside. The camp was very nice..with beautiful flowers all around and the view of mountains, birds chirping. Just perfect nature to be in.
We had our breakfast and left the camp. It was a long drive. Had lunch outside. We had to reach Sari village by noon but due to road widening and works, we were stuck and reached only by 5pm.
The trek was about 2hrs to reach the Magpie Camp, near the Deoria tal (lake)... It was almost 7pm and no lights out anywhere. So we went to the camp. We had bonfire with other guests of that camp, munching pakodas and hot tea. They were 2 retired couples, and 1 family. We all had good time playing anthakshari and a little boy named Ayan danced for bollywood music. After a good dinner we rested for the day. It was reallyyy cold up there :D
Day 3:
Deoria tal is located at an altitude of 2,438 meters (7,999 ft). The lake is known for its wide 300° panorama. Mountains like Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, Bandarpunch, Kedar Range, and Kalanag can be viewed from here.
Hindu mythology states that the Devas bathed in this lake, hence the name. The lake is also believed to be the "Indra Sarovar" referred to in the Puranas by wandering Hindu mendicants, Sadhus. It is also believed that it was the place from where the mighty Pandavas were asked queries by Yaksha. According to the locals it was also said that this lake was built by Bheem, who was strongest among the Pandavas, to appease his thirst, and Yudhister, who was the wisest, suggested Bheem to build his own lake.
Early morning we got up at 6am to see the sunrise at the lake. It was 5mins walk upto the lake. We saw many tents that were camped near the lake.
It was indeed a beauty to watch the nature with birds chirping and sun about to rise. I went around the lake to see the place. At another point found a view point where we can see the mountain range and the beautiful first sun rays falling on these snow capped mountains. Cant explain that beauty! We have to just see, experience and feel that.
I was thankful that this place was not cancelled due to our time issue, which was being planned before reaching here.
After having our breakfast and packing our lunch, we left for Chopta. We had to trek down back to Sari village that took 1.5 hrs. The way was slipperty when coming down. One has to be really very careful and not just run. Takes knees for a game ;)
We drove to Chopta. Reached Chopta around 10.30am and started our main trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila. The way is really nice but due to steep and altitude we get breathlessness. Its actually an easy to moderate trek, if everything goes well. The climate was changing every now and then. As we walk up it was breezy, cold and sweaty. This effects a lot while trekking up. Please take care and be aware, if you are planning to trek...
Not every mountain trek is same. It depends on the person and the altitude it plays with our body. Every trek is different and we get different experience. I had thought I could do it easily as I had done Valley of flowers. But I was wrong. After appx 2hrs trek, I was completely exhausted, unable to breathe, unable to put one step forward, stuck with the altitude sickness, felt to puke, odd feeling in tummy.. I just..just gave up.. NOT ANYMORE.. but.......something happened....
The moment I gave up and was standing, saw a man smiling at me and coming down from the trek. He was very simple, middle aged guy. He stopped beside me..pointed his index finger at the top, and said, "SEE THERE... WHEN THEY CAN DO IT, EVEN YOU CAN DO"
With some hope i sighed and said, Yes, WHY NOT ME!
But, He stressed and said.."NOT WHY.. EVEN YOU CAN DO! Chalo now go and finish this!" and he just went off, after I thanked him for motivating.
As soon as he left, I dint know what happend to me, I just cried. No thoughts about anything. finally had some water. And.... started my walk......The next 40mins of my trek was filled with so much energy, no thoughts, people were smiling, talking, asking me to sit for a while and rest, clicking pics for others.. It was just a diversion from my pain and thought of not doing. Some Will Power, some positive vibe i had got suddenly. Felt that He was The God Himself.. without His push, I would never had done this. If one believes, its faith!!!
I could not believe I reached Tungnath temple in 40mins. Truly a wonderful experience it was. I had taken some dates which i offered to Lord Shiva, though temple was closed. It was a Manasika prayer done. Gave to people near the temple and to my friends. Please do carry some dryfruits to offer to God and give to others like prasad. Its a blessing to reach in first place. And once you reach, having a date kills the thirst. People thank you for that too. Its a nice feeling! Spent sometime watching the beauty of the place and it was indeed PEACEFUL! Felt some kind of self satisfaction, some kind of happiness.. :)
Since it was already 2pm and mists started covering the peaks, thought no point trekking to Chandrashila point. Except one girl from our gang made it. Others, we all started walking down.
Saw a worker who had ice in his plate and eating with a spoon. I asked him why are you eating this. He replied saying, We eat this snow with salt so that our body gets used to this cold climate. Its our daily routine. I was really surprised. He just smiled and he continued eating.
Finally we reached the base completely tired, exhausted, with leg pains...but satisfied we could make it to Tungnath.
Got into our car and went to our Magpie jungle camp. We really had a good hot water bath that refreshed us from the trek. Had dinner, packed our things as we had to leave next day early to Haridwar. Then hit to the bed..slept like a log. It was warm inside the tent and needed good rest.
Day 4:
Got up by 4am and left by 5am to Haridwar as we had our return train to Delhi.
On the way we saw Rudraprayag, where River Mandakini and River Alaknanda joined to form Ganga. and also Dev Prayag, where River Alaknanda and River Bhagirathi joined to form Ganga.
We reached Haridwar railway station by 4pm and just relaxed.
Our trip ended with wonderful experience.
Suggestion:
If you are a first time trekker, then this expedition is the perfect experience to enjoy the thrill of the Himalayas. Prepare thoroughly with regard to clothing and other protective gears to endure the unpredictable mountain weather. Build enough leg strength and ample gym training, anything that can equally replicate the actual trek. Practice using your backpack and choose wisely with adjustable straps when buying. Use a good quality-walking pole and remember to enjoy yourself while hydrating yourself frequently.
Things to Carry
– Good condition trekking shoes
– A pair of thick woolen socks never hurt when trekking in the Himalayas
– Keep a thick winter jacket for dealing with the cold
– Trekking Pants are a must for scaling the peaks
– A woolen cap to protect yourself from the biting cold
– A pair of sunglasses to avoid the glaring sun
– Sun Screen
– A 2 ltr. water bottle
–Glucose
–Dryfruits
– Trekking pole
– A first aid box is a must have on this trek
–Torch light
– carry light backpack
Thanks for reading.. Have a grt time!
We had our breakfast and left the camp. It was a long drive. Had lunch outside. We had to reach Sari village by noon but due to road widening and works, we were stuck and reached only by 5pm.
The trek was about 2hrs to reach the Magpie Camp, near the Deoria tal (lake)... It was almost 7pm and no lights out anywhere. So we went to the camp. We had bonfire with other guests of that camp, munching pakodas and hot tea. They were 2 retired couples, and 1 family. We all had good time playing anthakshari and a little boy named Ayan danced for bollywood music. After a good dinner we rested for the day. It was reallyyy cold up there :D
Day 3:
Deoria tal is located at an altitude of 2,438 meters (7,999 ft). The lake is known for its wide 300° panorama. Mountains like Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, Bandarpunch, Kedar Range, and Kalanag can be viewed from here.
Hindu mythology states that the Devas bathed in this lake, hence the name. The lake is also believed to be the "Indra Sarovar" referred to in the Puranas by wandering Hindu mendicants, Sadhus. It is also believed that it was the place from where the mighty Pandavas were asked queries by Yaksha. According to the locals it was also said that this lake was built by Bheem, who was strongest among the Pandavas, to appease his thirst, and Yudhister, who was the wisest, suggested Bheem to build his own lake.
Early morning we got up at 6am to see the sunrise at the lake. It was 5mins walk upto the lake. We saw many tents that were camped near the lake.
It was indeed a beauty to watch the nature with birds chirping and sun about to rise. I went around the lake to see the place. At another point found a view point where we can see the mountain range and the beautiful first sun rays falling on these snow capped mountains. Cant explain that beauty! We have to just see, experience and feel that.
I was thankful that this place was not cancelled due to our time issue, which was being planned before reaching here.
After having our breakfast and packing our lunch, we left for Chopta. We had to trek down back to Sari village that took 1.5 hrs. The way was slipperty when coming down. One has to be really very careful and not just run. Takes knees for a game ;)
We drove to Chopta. Reached Chopta around 10.30am and started our main trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila. The way is really nice but due to steep and altitude we get breathlessness. Its actually an easy to moderate trek, if everything goes well. The climate was changing every now and then. As we walk up it was breezy, cold and sweaty. This effects a lot while trekking up. Please take care and be aware, if you are planning to trek...
Not every mountain trek is same. It depends on the person and the altitude it plays with our body. Every trek is different and we get different experience. I had thought I could do it easily as I had done Valley of flowers. But I was wrong. After appx 2hrs trek, I was completely exhausted, unable to breathe, unable to put one step forward, stuck with the altitude sickness, felt to puke, odd feeling in tummy.. I just..just gave up.. NOT ANYMORE.. but.......something happened....
The moment I gave up and was standing, saw a man smiling at me and coming down from the trek. He was very simple, middle aged guy. He stopped beside me..pointed his index finger at the top, and said, "SEE THERE... WHEN THEY CAN DO IT, EVEN YOU CAN DO"
With some hope i sighed and said, Yes, WHY NOT ME!
But, He stressed and said.."NOT WHY.. EVEN YOU CAN DO! Chalo now go and finish this!" and he just went off, after I thanked him for motivating.
As soon as he left, I dint know what happend to me, I just cried. No thoughts about anything. finally had some water. And.... started my walk......The next 40mins of my trek was filled with so much energy, no thoughts, people were smiling, talking, asking me to sit for a while and rest, clicking pics for others.. It was just a diversion from my pain and thought of not doing. Some Will Power, some positive vibe i had got suddenly. Felt that He was The God Himself.. without His push, I would never had done this. If one believes, its faith!!!
I could not believe I reached Tungnath temple in 40mins. Truly a wonderful experience it was. I had taken some dates which i offered to Lord Shiva, though temple was closed. It was a Manasika prayer done. Gave to people near the temple and to my friends. Please do carry some dryfruits to offer to God and give to others like prasad. Its a blessing to reach in first place. And once you reach, having a date kills the thirst. People thank you for that too. Its a nice feeling! Spent sometime watching the beauty of the place and it was indeed PEACEFUL! Felt some kind of self satisfaction, some kind of happiness.. :)
Since it was already 2pm and mists started covering the peaks, thought no point trekking to Chandrashila point. Except one girl from our gang made it. Others, we all started walking down.
Saw a worker who had ice in his plate and eating with a spoon. I asked him why are you eating this. He replied saying, We eat this snow with salt so that our body gets used to this cold climate. Its our daily routine. I was really surprised. He just smiled and he continued eating.
Finally we reached the base completely tired, exhausted, with leg pains...but satisfied we could make it to Tungnath.
Got into our car and went to our Magpie jungle camp. We really had a good hot water bath that refreshed us from the trek. Had dinner, packed our things as we had to leave next day early to Haridwar. Then hit to the bed..slept like a log. It was warm inside the tent and needed good rest.
Day 4:
Got up by 4am and left by 5am to Haridwar as we had our return train to Delhi.
On the way we saw Rudraprayag, where River Mandakini and River Alaknanda joined to form Ganga. and also Dev Prayag, where River Alaknanda and River Bhagirathi joined to form Ganga.
We reached Haridwar railway station by 4pm and just relaxed.
Our trip ended with wonderful experience.
Suggestion:
If you are a first time trekker, then this expedition is the perfect experience to enjoy the thrill of the Himalayas. Prepare thoroughly with regard to clothing and other protective gears to endure the unpredictable mountain weather. Build enough leg strength and ample gym training, anything that can equally replicate the actual trek. Practice using your backpack and choose wisely with adjustable straps when buying. Use a good quality-walking pole and remember to enjoy yourself while hydrating yourself frequently.
Things to Carry
– Good condition trekking shoes
– A pair of thick woolen socks never hurt when trekking in the Himalayas
– Keep a thick winter jacket for dealing with the cold
– Trekking Pants are a must for scaling the peaks
– A woolen cap to protect yourself from the biting cold
– A pair of sunglasses to avoid the glaring sun
– Sun Screen
– A 2 ltr. water bottle
–Glucose
–Dryfruits
– Trekking pole
– A first aid box is a must have on this trek
–Torch light
– carry light backpack
Thanks for reading.. Have a grt time!
Very nice and informative. Thanks for the detailed information
ReplyDeletewonderful...loved reading your trekking experience
ReplyDeleteWonderfully written Ramya
ReplyDeletewow n great . hpp for U :-)
ReplyDeleteappreciate ur info , experience n pic posts