Haldwani to Chopta-Tungnath by Taxi: Route, Distance & Trek Guide

Chopta, often called the Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand, is the base for the famous Tungnath and Chandrashila trek. It sits deep in Garhwal's Rudraprayag district surrounded by meadows and forest, so this is a long mountain drive that needs a fit vehicle and an experienced hill driver. We do this trip regularly for trekkers, photographers and nature lovers, and it is one of the most scenic routes in the state.

Distance, Time & Route

Haldwani to Chopta is roughly 330 km and takes about 9 to 10 hours due to the mountainous terrain. The route runs Haldwani → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta. The stretch from Rudraprayag onward is pure hill driving, climbing steadily along the Mandakini valley and then through thick rhododendron and pine forest up to Chopta. You will pass Devprayag, where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda meet to form the Ganga.

The Tungnath & Chandrashila Trek

From Chopta you can reach two highlights on foot:

• Tungnath temple – the highest Shiva temple in the world, about a 3.5 km uphill trek
• Chandrashila summit – another 1.5 km above Tungnath for panoramic Himalayan views at sunrise
• Deoria Tal – a beautiful reflecting lake near Sari village, a popular add-on day hike

Best Vehicle for Chopta

Given the distance and high-altitude hill roads, an SUV or Innova Crysta is the right choice for comfort and grip on the long climbs. We do not recommend a sedan for the final mountain stretch beyond Rudraprayag. Larger trekking groups can take a Tempo Traveller up to Chopta, weather permitting, and our drivers are experienced with these gradients.

Planning Tips

This is best done as a two-day trip with an overnight near Chopta, Sari or Ukhimath, as the road is far too long for a comfortable same-day return. Tungnath temple typically opens around late April or May and closes by early November, when the deity is moved to Mukku for winter, so plan around those months. Carry warm clothing year-round, because nights at Chopta are cold even in summer. Mobile network is patchy beyond Rudraprayag, so confirm all plans and pickup details before you lose signal, and start very early from Haldwani. Accommodation at Chopta itself is basic, with wooden huts and tents rather than hotels, so set expectations accordingly and pack accordingly. The Tungnath trek is moderate but the altitude can be felt, so take it slow and carry water and some snacks. Our drivers are familiar with this whole circuit and can suggest reliable stays at Sari or Ukhimath.

For a safe, well-planned trip to Chopta and the Tungnath trek base, book your taxi with Arjun Travels on +91 90844 04569. Call or WhatsApp us and we will arrange a hill-experienced driver and the right vehicle.