Introduction 

Imagine yourself being surrounded by a gorgeous lake amidst the green lushes, and on the other hand, you get to see animals quenching their thirst from the lake. It will be an experience of a lifetime. Deoria Tal is one such place to visualize nature's beauty lying on Mother Earth's lap; every spot is lush green, with dense trees, translucent lakes, and mountains covered with snow. It proves to be a paradise on earth effortlessly. It is referred to as the land of god by nature lovers. The popular treks during the autumn season  in the Himalayas are Kuari Pass Trek, Sandakphu Trek, Har ki Dun, Valley of flowers, Beas Kund, etc, making it easily accessible in the autumn season .

Here is the complete guide for the Deoriatal Trek, helping you to plan the trek wisely and make the trek a wonderful experience.

Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek - An overview 

Deoria Tal is in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand state, under the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary. It is about 7998 ft above sea level. The Deriotal-Chopta-Chandrashila beautifully presents the richness of the Himalayas, and there is an astonishing panoramic view of the mountains. The emerald lake here reflects the peaks of Chaukhamba. Deoriatal shows other famous peaks such as Nikantha, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, Kedar range, etc. The trek path in Deoriatal is an easy to medium-level trek, making it an ideal trek for family outings and friends. The habitat gives you a visual treat of different species of birds. Apart from nature's beauty, the biggest thrill is the climb from Chopta to the Chandrashila summit. Deoriatal Chandrashila trek is a great adventure, which will be a great experience for life-time. Deoriatal Chandrashila would top the list for beginners. 

 

Take a look at the overview of the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek 

  • Location: Uttarakhand
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Height: 12,083 ft above sea level
  • Base Camp: Sari Village
  • Best season to Trek: September-June, December-Feb for experiencing snowfall
  • Trek Route: Rishikesh- Sari Village- Deoriatal 
  • Nearby Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun
  • Nearby Railway Station: Yog Nagari Rishikesh Railway Station

Why is the Deoriatal trek so popular?

We are aware of its scenic beauty; what makes it more popular is that it is easy and short, making it a perfect trekking experience for beginners and kids. The trekking route combines Jungle, meadows, and lake waters, making it a habitat for many animals. Different species of birds visit the lake every year. The vantage points are the highlight of the trek, which is a rare view in spring and summer.

At the top of Chandrashila's summit, you get to witness the idea of the Indian Himalayas. It is going to be an experience that makes the moment cherishable. The Chaukhamba is right in front; to the left, we have the Gangotri range of treks, Kedarnath, Mt Thalay Sagar, Janhukut, and Mandani Parbat, and to the right, we have Hathi Parbat, Gauri Parbat, and Dunagiri.

To add up, you get to visualize Mt Nanda Ghunti and Mt Trishul touching the skyline, giving a treat to the eyes of trekkers. The trail walks you through the canopy of oak trees and Rhododendron trees, a picture-perfect trek view. 

Deoriatal Trek is famous for its perfection in its beauty. Deoria Tal Trek is famous for trekking, lake view, bird watching, and a place to find calmness. Since the Deoria Tal trek is an easy level trek, it attracts families and kids, corporates, couples, and solo trekking. It is one of the best summits to visualize and experience. 

What is the best time to do a Deoriatal trek?

The trek is open for more than six months a year. The trail path and nature's beauty vary according to the season. So choose the best time based upon the requirements.

  • Spring season(March - April)- This pre-monsoon season spans between March to April. There is receding snow, rhododendrons have begun to bloom, and you get shades of red and pink. 

  • Summer season (May- June) - This is an excellent time to witness rhododendron flowers, both trees and shrubs. Unlike other seasons, the landscape turns green and lush. The birds migrate back to Deoriatal. Though it is summer season, the temperature drops down, and it can be quite chilling at night. Ensure to carry woolens even during the summer season.

 

  • Autumn season (September- December)- You get to see a clear sky after the wetness of the monsoon. There is a natural view with the shine of sunlight. The weather is pleasant for a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks. 

  • Winter season (December- February)- This season is best for solo treks, but there is heavy snowfall during this period. Deoria tal in winter is quite unpredictable, as the roads become slippery and driving is challenging. But it is advisable to trek during the start of the winter season. 

Detailed Itinerary 

Here is the detailed itinerary recommended to cover the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek. Ideally, the trek is planned for 5-6 days, but the requirement depends on the trekkers. Check out the itinerary to plan the trek.

Rishikesh to Sari

Rishikesh is the nearest location for the Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek. The distance from Rishikesh to Sari Village is about 190km, covered within 7-8 hours. It is advisable to start early in the morning from Rishikesh to reach the Sari village in the evening, considering the break time during travelling. Sari village is the last point to get a mobile signal, so be prepared to focus entirely on nature. 

Sari village to Deoriatal Trek

Trek distance: 3 km

Trek duration: 2 hours

Altitude: 2438 m   

Sari village is the starting point for the trek. From Sari Village, you trek to Deoriatal to witness the beautiful lake. The Deoriatal trek distance is about 2.3-3 km. The trek path is relatively easy and is covered with oak, rhododendron, and pine trees. The trial path is a mixture of ascents and descents. If you have started early, you will reach Deoriatal by noon. Once you have it, the emerald water steals your sight, and Chaukhamba Massif's beauty is reflected on the lake. Set the camp and explore the beauty.      

Deoriatal to Syalmi via Rohini Bugyal

Trek distance: 5.4 km

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

Altitude: 2680m

The trial is through the thick green forest, filled with rhododendrons and maple trees. The picturesque view eases the long trek, as the pathway is ascent for an hour until you reach Rohini Bugyal. As you go to Rohini Bugyal, you must descend for an hour to reach Syalami. The journey from Deoriatal is a steep climb until Rohini Bugyal, and later, it is stepped down towards Syalmi. 

Syalmi to Baniya Kund

Trek distance: 5.4 km

Trek duration: 6 hours

Altitude: 2600m 

The trek path descends here till the Akash Kamini River. Later, it takes you through dense forest and ascends until you reach the meadow. From there, the pathway ascends and descends to Baniya Kund. The Campsite at Baniya Kund is located at an altitude of 8562 ft. The journey starts from Syalmi to Baniya Kund early in the morning and will be completed by noon. This journey combines steeps, meadows, intersected motor roads, flat tar roads, and slope downs to Baniya Kund.   

Baniya Kund to Chandrashila via Tungnath and back to Sari

 Incredible Beauty of Tungnath While Trekking down, by MR.VIVEK NEGI and licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Trek distance:13 km 

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

Altitude: 3690 m 

From Chopta Deoriatal, the trek starts from a concrete-filled trail. Tunganath is the highest temple of Lord Shiva, located at an altitude of 3690 m. The path is a gradual ascent, followed by a steeper climb towards Chandrashila. Tunganath has a majestic aura with a picturesque view at the top. It would take roughly 4 hours to reach Tunganath, and the pathway ahead of Tunganath consists of rocky patches, muddy portions, and a steep incline for about 20 minutes. It takes about 2 hours from Tunganath to Chandrashila. Ensure to maintain a slow and steady pace, considering the terrain. The summit view in Chandrashila is the ultimate destination of your trek; by this point, you will attain satisfaction and a feeling of accomplishment. The moment is surreal.  

Sari to Rishikesh

The distance from Sari to Rishikesh is about 192 km, and the journey lasts about 7-8 hours. The available options are a taxi, bus or train.

 

How do you get to Deoriatal?

It is through Rishikesh you get to Deoriatal. Take note of the best ways to get to Deoriatal. 

  • Roadways: If you are travelling from Delhi, consider travelling through. It would help if you directed Delhi ISBT to Ukhimath and then took a cab to Sari village to start the trek. Sari village is about 14 km from Ukhimath and would take about half an hour. 
  • Railways: The nearest railway station is Yog Nagari Rishikesh Railway Station. The distance from the railway station to Sari village is about 272 km, which could be covered within 7-8 hours. 
  • Airways: The nearest Airport is located in Dehradun. Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is about 286 km away from Sari Village. One can take a taxi from the Airport, and the journey would be 8 hours.  

    

Things to carry on the Deoriatal trek 

The list of things to carry for the Deoriatal trek is vast because the weather conditions are extreme, and it is essential to keep yourself protected. But one has to be prepared for any circumstance and carry the necessities. Here is the list of critical things for the Deoriatal Chandrashila trek.

  • Headgear: It is essential to protect your face, forehead, and head against the chillness to prevent snow blindness. Headgear must consist of the following: UV-protected sunglasses, woollen cap, woollen muffler, suncap, and balaclava.
  • Apparel: To protect yourself from extreme weather conditions, clothing is adequate. Attire must consist of the following: full-sleeve t-shirts, non-cotton t-shirts, woollen sweaters, flee jackets, waterproof jackets, thermal inners, waterproof pants, a shawl for any unexpected rain, waterproof gloves, and woollen gloves. 
  • Footwear: The topography in the Deoriatal trek is different from the plain land. If the feet are not protected, it may lead to injuries. Buy a pair of super comfortable trekking shoes that protect you against any form of terrain, rain, snow, and muddy pathways. These trekking shoes must protect your feet from damage, stress, and shock. Flip-flops do not come under the essential category, but it depends on the trekker's needs. Carry a pair of woollen and cotton socks to keep your feet warm. 

Other Trekking gears

Chopta Chandrashila Deoriatal trek is one of the high-altitude yet adventurous treks. There are other essential trekking gear to carry; here is the list.

  • Rucksack bag: A backpack containing about 50-60 litre will be sufficient, and comfortable straps are a must. These backpacks need protection from rain/snow depending on the season, ensure to carry a rain cover/ poncho for the backpack to keep it protected. You can also carry a sleeping bag for freezing nights. 
  • Toiletries: Ensure you carry hygiene essentials such as biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, moisturizer, sunscreen, lip balm, hand sanitisers, toilet paper, wet wipes, and tissue roll. For women, ensure to carry menstrual hygiene. 
  • First aid kits: They are essential if you endure unpredicted events, injuries, or accidents. The first-aid kit must contain a bandaid, pain relieving spray, cotton, antiseptic liquid, and crepe bandages. Along with this, carry mosquito repellent spray. It should also have essential medicines for fever, headache, stomach ache, stomach upset, and painkillers.

Essential Documents 

  • Any traveller trekking along with an agency must carry original and copies of ID cards issued by the government, photographs, and forest and sanctuary permits.
  • Foreigners must carry a passport along with the documents mentioned above.  

Quick tips before going for the Deoriatal trek

Get some quick tips before heading to the Deoria Tal trek.

  • The trek is perfectly suitable for kids and any amateur trekkers.
  • Since it comes under the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, the forest authorities set guidelines, and the trekkers must abide by them.
  • Make sure to inform everyone before venturing out alone in the night. 
  • Hiring a guide makes the trek a beautiful and adventurous experience.
  • Ensure to carry cash during the trek, as ATMs are not commonly located.
  • The mobile signal is available only until Sari village; you might get weak signals in Deoria Tal, so keep your close ones informed.
  • It is safe to travel with a group, which adds safety as well as fun.  

Conclusion

Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek will be a lifetime experience, and there is no doubt about it. As you plan for the Deoriatal Trek, get ready to soak in the greens and snow. The Chopta Chandrashila Deoria Tal trek is an easy trek that can be done by kids, beginners, or any amateur trekker. Though it is an easy trek, it gives you an alluring view of peaks. So, no more wait; plan your tour immediately, considering all the information gathered in this blog. 

FAQs

  1. How far is the trek from Chopta to Deoria Tal?

The trek from Deoria Tal to Chopta is about 14 km long, passing through dense forest. 

  1. How far is the trek to Deoria Tal Chandrashila?

The trek to Deoria Tal Chandrashila is 3km. It is a steep trail with a stone pathway.

  1. Is the Tungnath trek arduous?

From Chopta to Tunganath, the trek distance is about 5 km, and the difficulty level is moderate as the trail combines ascent and descent.

  1. Is camping allowed in Deoriatal?

Camping is allowed in Deoriatal, but charges are to be paid to the forest department. To pitch a tent, you must pay Rs 50 per head. The camping cost starts from Rs 500 per night. 

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