Chopta Excursions

Madhmaheshwar (3289 m) – It is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where almighty is worshipped in the form of navel - shaped lingum. It is situated at an elevation of 3,289mts above sea level. The temple architecture belongs to the north - Indian style. The natural scenery of Madhyamaheshwar is invigorating, with deep gorges and Himalayan valleys. Budha Madhyamaheshwar is situated 1.5km above Madhmaheshwar temple. There is a small lake holding pristine water in Budha Madhyamaheshwar. The view of the Chaukhamba peaks from Budha Madhyamaheshwar is enchanting. Madhyamaheshwar is one of the sacred Panch Kedar. Madhyamaheshwar can be reached by 20kms trek starting from Uniana village near Ukhimath.

Deoria Tal: It is situated at an elevation of 2,438 mts. above sea level. Deoria Tal can be reached by an easy 2km trek from Sari village located on Guptkashi – Gopeshwar road. This lake has captivating surroundings with forest all round it. The reflections of Chaukhamba peak in the crystal clear water of Deoria Tal creats a magical world.

Kalimath: Kalimath is one of the sidha peeth’s of the region and it holds immense importance. This sacred temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. The temple is visites by devotees in large number and especially in ‘navratras’.

Kedarnath Temple: Kedarnath is one of the holiest Hindu pilgrims of India with Lord Shiva as its residing deity. This holy site is situated perched at an elevation of 3,584mts above sea level in the foot of imposing snow bound Himalayan peaks. Mythology says that Pandavas wanted to wash their sins they committed during the great war of Mahabharata by killing their own brothers, so they wished to meet Lord Shiva. Shiva was angry with them and he didn’t want to bless them with his presence so Lord Shiva converted himself into a big bull and dug himself under the ground. The places where the body parts were founded were named as "Kedars". The hump of the bull was found here. The Kedarnath temple was built by Adi Shankaracharya in the early 8th century. The temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India and the main temple of Panch Kedar. Kedarnath temple is located 64kms from Chopta.

Gaurikund: Gaurikund is the commencement point of the trek of 14kms to the sacred shrine of Kedarnath. The place is named after Goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva and a temple Gauri is also situated here. It is believed that Lord Shiva accepted to marry Parvati at this place and married her in Trijuginarayan. The place offers vivid greenery with Vasuki Ganga flowing from below. Gaurikund is situated 50kms from Chopta. The place also has natural thermal springs.

Gopeshwar: The view of Chamoli from Gopeshwar is very picturesque. The town of Gopehswar is the administrative headquarters of the Chamoli district. There are sevaral ancient temples in Gopeshwar with great religious importance. The main attractions are the ancient temple of Lord Shiva, Vaitarni Kund and the splendid views of the Himalayas. Trek to Rudranath commences from Saggar which is situated 5kms ahead from Gopeshwar on Guptkashi – Gopeshwar road.