Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek
The Journey That Changed Everything
Aahh, this trip is so close to my heart. The moment I stepped out as a solo traveler for an adventure, my heart was a chaotic mix of excitement and nervousness. I had decided to trek in the Himalayas, and little did I know that this would be the best decision of my life. This was where I truly found myself—where I realized my love for trekking, nature, and the mountains. This was the trip that gave me confidence, self-belief, and endless joy.
There’s something about the Himalayas that makes me feel closer to Shiva. I am a deeply spiritual person, a firm believer in Shiva, and every step in these mountains felt like a journey toward Him. So, Khursi ki peti bandh lijiye, because this is going to be one interesting ride.
While writing this, every memory of the trek is playing like a movie right in front of my eyes.
The Journey Begins – From Ahmedabad to Rishikesh
I started my journey from Ahmedabad Airport, catching a flight to Dehradun with a two-hour layover in Delhi. It was my first time in Delhi, even though it was just an airport transfer, and being solo, I was a little nervous. My flight was at 2:55 PM on March 22, 2024 (yes, I remember the exact time), and I landed in Dehradun at 7:15 PM-ish.
Reaching Rishikesh – A New Beginning
I had already pre-booked a taxi to Rishikesh because I didn’t want to take any risks at the beginning of my solo adventure. My stay in Rishikesh arranged the taxi, and as soon as I stepped out, my driver was there waiting for me.
Just when I was about to leave, a guy approached me, asking if he could share the ride since he was heading to the same place. I agreed, and in those 45 minutes to Rishikesh (15 km journey), we had a great conversation about trekking, life, and everything in between.
Stay at My Favorite – Live Free Hostel, Tapovan
I finally reached Live Free Hostel, one of my favorite places to stay in Rishikesh. Since I had already done a self-check-in online, the process was quick and smooth. My roommate was amazing, and she had just finished her trek. We went out for dinner together, and over some hot aloo parathas, she shared her trek stories, encouraging me to embrace my own adventure.
That night, I slept with a heart full of excitement because the next morning, I would leave for the mountains.
Rishikesh to Sari Village
The Journey Through Sacred Confluences & Hidden Temples
Early morning, I woke up, packed my bags, and our common transportation was waiting downstairs. The air was crisp, the roads still quiet, and there was a certain thrill in my heart—I was finally heading toward Sari Village, the basecamp of my trek.
Breakfast with the Ganga & Devprayag – The Birthplace of the Ganga
The journey from Rishikesh to Sari is nothing short of mesmerizing. The road winds along the river, passing through dense forests, towering cliffs, and sleepy mountain villages.
Our first stop was for breakfast at a roadside dhaba, right by the majestic Ganga. The view in front of us was straight out of a dream—the river flowing endlessly, mist rising from the waters, and the cool morning breeze making every sip of chai even more refreshing.
A few hours later, we arrived at Devprayag—the sacred confluence where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers merge to form the holy Ganga.
I stood at the edge, watching the two distinct colors of water collide and swirl together, forming one mighty river. It was a moment of awe—one that made me feel deeply connected to something larger than myself. There was a divine energy in the air, as if the entire place was alive.
I stood at the edge, watching the two distinct colors of water collide and swirl together, forming one mighty river. It was a moment of awe—one that made me feel deeply connected to something larger than myself. There was a divine energy in the air, as if the entire place was alive.
Dhari Devi Temple – The Goddess Who Changes Faces
Our next stop was Dhari Devi Temple, a sacred shrine perched on the banks of the Alaknanda River.
From the roadside, a small but scenic hike led us to the temple, crossing a hanging bridge with stunning river views. As I walked up, the sound of the gushing waters below mixed with the faint ringing of temple bells—setting the perfect spiritual tone.
Dhari Devi is known as the guardian deity of Uttarakhand, and the temple holds a fascinating mystery—locals believe that the idol of the goddess changes expressions three times a day, transitioning from a young girl in the morning, a woman by noon, and an old lady in the evening.
I sat in a quiet corner of the temple, feeling the divine energy and peaceful aura surrounding this sacred space. The soft chants, the flickering diyas, and the sound of the river created a sense of calm that stayed with me long after I left.
Sari Village – The Basecamp Awaits
After a long yet scenic journey, we finally reached Sari Village, our basecamp for the trek. But before settling in, there was one final stretch—a short uphill hike from the main road to the campsite.
As we arrived, we were greeted with warm welcome drinks, instantly refreshing us from the journey. The campsite had a unique charm—built on the principles of sustainable living. There were no dustbins, encouraging responsible waste management, and strict water conservation practices were followed to minimize our environmental footprint.
Inside the dorm tent, we quickly selected our beds and placed our backpacks. Without much delay, we gathered around for a mandatory medical and identity check, conducted individually by our trek leader to ensure we were fit for the climb ahead.
Once done, we were treated to a delicious, wholesome dinner—perhaps the best meal after a long travel day. Post dinner, we assembled again for the trek briefing. Our trek leader walked us through the entire trail, expected weather conditions, terrain difficulty, and safety protocols.
As the briefing ended, the excitement kicked in—we were just a night away from embarking on one of the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand!
As we arrived, we were greeted with warm welcome drinks, instantly refreshing us from the journey. The campsite had a unique charm—built on the principles of sustainable living. There were no dustbins, encouraging responsible waste management, and strict water conservation practices were followed to minimize our environmental footprint.
Inside the dorm tent, we quickly selected our beds and placed our backpacks. Without much delay, we gathered around for a mandatory medical and identity check, conducted individually by our trek leader to ensure we were fit for the climb ahead.
Once done, we were treated to a delicious, wholesome dinner—perhaps the best meal after a long travel day. Post dinner, we assembled again for the trek briefing. Our trek leader walked us through the entire trail, expected weather conditions, terrain difficulty, and safety protocols.
As the briefing ended, the excitement kicked in—we were just a night away from embarking on one of the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand!
Day 1 – Trek to Deoriatal: Into the Wilderness
The journey from Sari Village to Deoriatal Lake marked the beginning of our much-awaited trek. With every step, I was not just moving forward on the trail but immersing myself deeper into the Pahadi way of life.
Houses of the Hills – A Story of Resilience
As we ascended, we passed by quaint, traditional Pahadi houses built of stone and mud, standing strong against the harsh winters and monsoons. Our guide shared a fascinating story about how these houses are designed to trap warmth in freezing temperatures and stay cool during summers—a lesson in sustainable architecture perfected over generations.
With each stop, I also picked up a few Pahadi words from our guide, trying to grasp the rhythm of the language spoken in these mountains. This journey started as a solo one, but in just a few hours, it didn’t feel like that anymore.
With each stop, I also picked up a few Pahadi words from our guide, trying to grasp the rhythm of the language spoken in these mountains. This journey started as a solo one, but in just a few hours, it didn’t feel like that anymore.
Into the Forest – Silver Oaks, Golden Oaks & Rhododendrons
Just at the beginning of the trail, the forest greeted us with tall silver oak, golden oak trees, and blooming rhododendrons. I was awestruck by a single tree in full bloom—vivid red petals standing out against the green canopy. Little did I know, this was just a glimpse of the beauty that lay ahead.
The trail was a gradual ascent with rocky patches, demanding steady steps. We paused at hydration breaks, taking in the scenery, conversing with fellow trekkers, and soaking in the crisp mountain air.
The trail was a gradual ascent with rocky patches, demanding steady steps. We paused at hydration breaks, taking in the scenery, conversing with fellow trekkers, and soaking in the crisp mountain air.
First Sight of Deoriatal – A Moment to Remember
After a few hours of trekking, I caught my first glimpse of Deoriatal Lake, perfectly mirroring the snow-capped Chaukhamba peak in the background. The reflection was so surreal that for a moment, I forgot about the trek and simply stood there, taking it all in.
We walked towards our campsite, nestled amidst nature, and did a quick tour of the area. Indiahikes’ commitment to sustainability was evident—bio-toilets for minimal environmental impact and water conservation systems to reduce waste. This is one of the many reasons I love trekking with them.
Trekking is not just about the views; it teaches you how to respect and preserve nature. These mountains are not ours—they belong to nature itself. We are only visitors, and it’s our duty to leave them as we found them.
We walked towards our campsite, nestled amidst nature, and did a quick tour of the area. Indiahikes’ commitment to sustainability was evident—bio-toilets for minimal environmental impact and water conservation systems to reduce waste. This is one of the many reasons I love trekking with them.
Trekking is not just about the views; it teaches you how to respect and preserve nature. These mountains are not ours—they belong to nature itself. We are only visitors, and it’s our duty to leave them as we found them.
The Myth & Magic of Deoriatal
After a wholesome lunch and some rest, we returned to Deoriatal before sunset, eager to hear the legend of the lake.
Our guide narrated an age-old tale—it is believed that the Pandavas, during their exile, created this lake.
With that story in mind, we engaged in a self-reflection activity, sitting in silence by the lake, lost in our thoughts. There’s something about these mountains that makes you introspect—who you are, where you’re headed, and what truly matters in life.
Our guide narrated an age-old tale—it is believed that the Pandavas, during their exile, created this lake.
With that story in mind, we engaged in a self-reflection activity, sitting in silence by the lake, lost in our thoughts. There’s something about these mountains that makes you introspect—who you are, where you’re headed, and what truly matters in life.
Sunset – A Show of Colors Like Never Before
As the sun began to set, we gathered in small groups, sharing our thoughts about the self-reflection exercise. Then, it happened—the sky transformed into a breathtaking canvas of colors.
The Chaukhamba peak was bathed in golden light—the Alpine glow, a sight that words fail to capture. The sky shifted from deep blue to rich yellows, fiery oranges, and finally, soft purples. It wasn’t just a sunset; it was nature’s way of reminding us how magical the world can be.
Standing there, grateful for this moment, I knew this was one of the best decisions I had ever made—to be here, in the middle of nowhere, watching nature paint the sky.
The Chaukhamba peak was bathed in golden light—the Alpine glow, a sight that words fail to capture. The sky shifted from deep blue to rich yellows, fiery oranges, and finally, soft purples. It wasn’t just a sunset; it was nature’s way of reminding us how magical the world can be.
Standing there, grateful for this moment, I knew this was one of the best decisions I had ever made—to be here, in the middle of nowhere, watching nature paint the sky.
Day 2 – Trek to Shyalmi Campsite via Rohini Bugyal: Into the Heart of Nature
The morning at Deoriatal started with a steaming cup of black tea and hot water, with the first golden light of the sun reflecting off Chaukhamba peak. The air was crisp, and the silence of the mountains was only interrupted by the occasional chirping of birds. There’s no better way to wake up than this.
After a wholesome breakfast, we packed our bags for the journey ahead. Today’s trek was going to be special—we were heading towards the famous Rohini Bugyal and then descending to our next campsite, Shyalmi.
After a wholesome breakfast, we packed our bags for the journey ahead. Today’s trek was going to be special—we were heading towards the famous Rohini Bugyal and then descending to our next campsite, Shyalmi.
Through the Enchanted Oak Forests
The trail began with a gradual ascent, leading us into a dense forest of oak and rhododendrons. The trees stood tall, their branches forming a natural canopy, filtering the sunlight and creating a mystical atmosphere.
As we trekked deeper into the forest, our trek leader introduced us to the diverse birdlife of this region. From the Himalayan Monal (the state bird of Uttarakhand) to tiny, fast-moving flycatchers, every bird had a unique call and color. This was the moment I discovered a newfound love for birdwatching. There is something so peaceful about listening to their songs, trying to spot them in the dense foliage.
But this wasn’t just about birds—we also learned survival techniques in the wild. Our guide demonstrated how to start a fire using a magnifier glass, focusing sunlight on dry leaves until they began to smoke. Such small but powerful lessons in nature left me fascinated.
As we trekked deeper into the forest, our trek leader introduced us to the diverse birdlife of this region. From the Himalayan Monal (the state bird of Uttarakhand) to tiny, fast-moving flycatchers, every bird had a unique call and color. This was the moment I discovered a newfound love for birdwatching. There is something so peaceful about listening to their songs, trying to spot them in the dense foliage.
But this wasn’t just about birds—we also learned survival techniques in the wild. Our guide demonstrated how to start a fire using a magnifier glass, focusing sunlight on dry leaves until they began to smoke. Such small but powerful lessons in nature left me fascinated.
Rohini Bugyal – Where Nature Unfolds Its Beauty
After hours of trekking, we emerged into a vast, open meadow—Rohini Bugyal. It was breathtaking—a carpet of green grass, dotted with wildflowers, with panoramic views of the snowcapped peaks in the distance.
This was where we stopped for a well-deserved rest, soaking in the beauty around us. While sitting in the grass, I spotted tiny wild mushrooms growing near a fallen tree. Nature truly has its own way of thriving.
And then came one of the most exciting moments—we were allowed to pluck only ONE flower from the entire trek. I couldn’t resist and carefully picked a vibrant pink rhododendron. Holding it in my hand, I felt a deep connection with the land, appreciating how nature gifts us beauty in the simplest ways.
This was where we stopped for a well-deserved rest, soaking in the beauty around us. While sitting in the grass, I spotted tiny wild mushrooms growing near a fallen tree. Nature truly has its own way of thriving.
And then came one of the most exciting moments—we were allowed to pluck only ONE flower from the entire trek. I couldn’t resist and carefully picked a vibrant pink rhododendron. Holding it in my hand, I felt a deep connection with the land, appreciating how nature gifts us beauty in the simplest ways.
Lunch in the Lap of the Himalayas
Since today was a packed lunch day, we found a perfect spot with a clear view of the mountains, laid down our mats, and enjoyed our meal under the open sky. Nothing beats eating in the mountains, surrounded by endless greenery and fresh air.
After lunch, some of us decided to play frisbee in the meadows—a moment of pure joy, running around, laughing, and making memories with new friends. Around us, tiny yellow and purple wildflowers bloomed, making the landscape look straight out of a fairytale.
I had never experienced nature like this before. This day made me realize that the mountains are not just about views; they teach you to slow down, observe, and truly live in the moment.
After lunch, some of us decided to play frisbee in the meadows—a moment of pure joy, running around, laughing, and making memories with new friends. Around us, tiny yellow and purple wildflowers bloomed, making the landscape look straight out of a fairytale.
I had never experienced nature like this before. This day made me realize that the mountains are not just about views; they teach you to slow down, observe, and truly live in the moment.
The Descent Begins – Knees, Brace Yourselves!
After a long break, it was time to descend towards Shyalmi campsite. The downhill section was steep, rocky, and challenging on the knees. But with every step, conversations flowed, and I realized that these strangers I met at the start of the trek had now become friends.
Shyalmi Campsite – A Hidden Gem in the Mountains
By late afternoon, we finally reached Shyalmi Campsite—a serene, hidden paradise surrounded by pine and oak trees. As usual, we were greeted with warm welcome drinks and did a quick campsite tour.
And then came the best part of the evening—white cream sauce pasta as our evening snack! Imagine having a plate of hot, delicious pasta while sitting in the mountains, watching the sky change colors as the sun began to set. Pure bliss.
And then came the best part of the evening—white cream sauce pasta as our evening snack! Imagine having a plate of hot, delicious pasta while sitting in the mountains, watching the sky change colors as the sun began to set. Pure bliss.
Holi Celebration in the Mountains – A Festival of Colors & Smiles
This wasn’t just any ordinary day—it was Holi, the festival of colors! Even in the remote Himalayas, the spirit of the festival was alive. We celebrated in the simplest, yet most beautiful way—smearing natural colors on each other, laughing, dancing, and soaking in the joy of the moment.
Playing Holi in the mountains felt different—pure, raw, and full of life. There were no loudspeakers or artificial decorations, just people, nature, and happiness.
Playing Holi in the mountains felt different—pure, raw, and full of life. There were no loudspeakers or artificial decorations, just people, nature, and happiness.
A Night Under the Stars – Stargazing & Unexpected Visitors
As the night fell, the sky turned into a blanket of stars. With no city lights around, the Milky Way was visible in all its glory. We lay on the grass, watching shooting stars, feeling humbled by the vastness of the universe.
And then, an unexpected visitor arrived—a fox near our campsite! It quickly disappeared into the darkness, but for a brief moment, I felt like I was truly in the wild, sharing this land with nature’s creatures.
As I crawled into my sleeping bag that night, I felt nothing but gratitude.
This was not just a trek—it was an experience of learning, bonding, celebrating, and finding joy in the simplest things. I couldn’t wait for what the next day had in store.
And then, an unexpected visitor arrived—a fox near our campsite! It quickly disappeared into the darkness, but for a brief moment, I felt like I was truly in the wild, sharing this land with nature’s creatures.
As I crawled into my sleeping bag that night, I felt nothing but gratitude.
This was not just a trek—it was an experience of learning, bonding, celebrating, and finding joy in the simplest things. I couldn’t wait for what the next day had in store.
Day 3 – A Day of Independence: Trek to Baniyakund Campsite
Morning in the Mountains – Breakfast with a View
The day started with a hearty breakfast, surrounded by the towering mountains and dense forest. There’s something special about mornings in the Himalayas—the crisp air, the golden light on the peaks, and the silence broken only by birdsong. Here, you naturally wake up early, not because you have to, but because you don’t want to miss a single moment of this magic.
The day started with a hearty breakfast, surrounded by the towering mountains and dense forest. There’s something special about mornings in the Himalayas—the crisp air, the golden light on the peaks, and the silence broken only by birdsong. Here, you naturally wake up early, not because you have to, but because you don’t want to miss a single moment of this magic.
A DIY Trek Day – Leading Ourselves into the Wilderness
Today was unique—our trek leaders and guides were on a break, which meant we had to take charge. We were given the responsibility to lead our own trek, with one of us as the trek leader and three others acting as guides.
This felt exciting and a little nerve-wracking at the same time—navigating the trails, keeping the group together, and making sure we reached our next campsite safely. It was an adventure within an adventure, teaching us leadership, responsibility, and teamwork in the most real way possible.
We started the journey with a warm-up session, stretching our legs and getting ready for the trek ahead. Once again, we found ourselves walking through dense oak and rhododendron forests, the scent of damp earth and pine filling the air.
This felt exciting and a little nerve-wracking at the same time—navigating the trails, keeping the group together, and making sure we reached our next campsite safely. It was an adventure within an adventure, teaching us leadership, responsibility, and teamwork in the most real way possible.
We started the journey with a warm-up session, stretching our legs and getting ready for the trek ahead. Once again, we found ourselves walking through dense oak and rhododendron forests, the scent of damp earth and pine filling the air.
A River That Heals – The Akashkamini River
As we trekked deeper into the forest, a faint, distant sound of rushing water reached our ears. At first, it was just a whisper, but with every step, it grew louder, filling us with excitement.
Finally, we arrived at the Akashkamini River, a serene and powerful stream flowing through the valley. A small wooden bridge stretched across it, swaying slightly as we stepped on it.
Finally, we arrived at the Akashkamini River, a serene and powerful stream flowing through the valley. A small wooden bridge stretched across it, swaying slightly as we stepped on it.
This wasn’t just a river crossing—it was an emotional and spiritual experience. Our trek leader had told us about an activity to do here:
We each picked up a small stone from the riverbank, held it tightly in our hands, closed our eyes, and focused on our fears, worries, and anything that weighed us down. Then, we let go—throwing the stone into the river and watching it disappear with the current, symbolizing the release of our burdens.
I stood there for a moment, feeling lighter, as if the river had washed away not just the stone, but a part of my worries too.
We each picked up a small stone from the riverbank, held it tightly in our hands, closed our eyes, and focused on our fears, worries, and anything that weighed us down. Then, we let go—throwing the stone into the river and watching it disappear with the current, symbolizing the release of our burdens.
I stood there for a moment, feeling lighter, as if the river had washed away not just the stone, but a part of my worries too.
Journey to Baniyakund – A Meadow Full of Surprises
After this refreshing experience, we continued our journey, stopping at beautiful meadows along the way for quick rests.
Here, the landscape changed—the dense forest gave way to open spaces with rolling green hills, tiny flowers blooming in shades of yellow and purple, and occasional glimpses of snow-covered peaks.
After hours of walking, we finally reached Baniyakund Campsite—our home for the night.
Here, the landscape changed—the dense forest gave way to open spaces with rolling green hills, tiny flowers blooming in shades of yellow and purple, and occasional glimpses of snow-covered peaks.
After hours of walking, we finally reached Baniyakund Campsite—our home for the night.
Baniyakund Campsite – A Warm Welcome & Aam Panna Delight
The moment we arrived, a refreshing welcome drink awaited us—chilled aam panna! After a long trek, the tangy, slightly sweet, and chilled drink was exactly what our tired bodies needed.
After settling into our tents, we had lunch with another stunning backdrop. Imagine sitting on the grass, eating a simple, warm meal, and gazing at the mighty Himalayas. This is the kind of luxury money can’t buy.
After settling into our tents, we had lunch with another stunning backdrop. Imagine sitting on the grass, eating a simple, warm meal, and gazing at the mighty Himalayas. This is the kind of luxury money can’t buy.
Evening Fun – UNO Battles & A Puppy’s Warmth
As the sun started to set, we gathered in a cozy circle to play UNO. Laughter filled the air as we argued over rules, made sneaky moves, and enjoyed the friendly competition.
But the best moment of the evening came unexpectedly—a tiny mountain puppy wandered into our group and curled up in my lap, falling asleep. There was something so pure about this moment—a small soul finding warmth and comfort, completely trusting a stranger.
But the best moment of the evening came unexpectedly—a tiny mountain puppy wandered into our group and curled up in my lap, falling asleep. There was something so pure about this moment—a small soul finding warmth and comfort, completely trusting a stranger.
Summit Briefing – Preparing for the Big Day
Tonight, we had an important briefing for the upcoming summit push. Our technical guide explained the technical sections, the challenges we would face, and the mindset required to complete the climb.
We listened carefully, knowing that tomorrow would be the most difficult yet rewarding day of our trek.
As the stars twinkled above, I zipped myself into my sleeping bag, feeling a mix of excitement, nervousness, and gratitude.
Tomorrow, we would stand at the summit.
We listened carefully, knowing that tomorrow would be the most difficult yet rewarding day of our trek.
As the stars twinkled above, I zipped myself into my sleeping bag, feeling a mix of excitement, nervousness, and gratitude.
Tomorrow, we would stand at the summit.
Summit Day – Conquering Chandrashila at 12,083 ft
A Midnight Start – The Journey Begins in the Dark
Summit day began when the world was still deep in sleep. We woke up at 1 AM, dressed in layers to fight the cold, and gathered for a light but energy-packed breakfast. With our lunch packed and headlamps on, we were ready to leave by 3 AM—while the mountains stood silent and the sky remained ink-black, sprinkled with stars.
The trail glowed faintly under our headlamps, our footsteps crunching against the frozen snow. With each step, the excitement built—this was the day we had been waiting for!
Summit day began when the world was still deep in sleep. We woke up at 1 AM, dressed in layers to fight the cold, and gathered for a light but energy-packed breakfast. With our lunch packed and headlamps on, we were ready to leave by 3 AM—while the mountains stood silent and the sky remained ink-black, sprinkled with stars.
The trail glowed faintly under our headlamps, our footsteps crunching against the frozen snow. With each step, the excitement built—this was the day we had been waiting for!
Trekking Through a Snow-Laden Wonderland
We trekked slowly but steadily, navigating the rocky trails of Chopta. The landscape was surreal—white snow blanketed everything, except for the bright pink rhododendrons peeking through.
At our first rest stop, our furry companion Kaliya was still with us. This mountain dog had been following us since the beginning, guiding us like a guardian.
At our first rest stop, our furry companion Kaliya was still with us. This mountain dog had been following us since the beginning, guiding us like a guardian.
Time for Microspikes – The Real Climb Begins
As we gained altitude, the snow became thicker, harder, and more slippery. It was time to put on our microspikes—a moment that made us realize how technical and challenging the climb ahead would be.
Spotting the Monal – The Jewel of Uttarakhand
Somewhere along the trail, we saw the Monal—the state bird of Uttarakhand.
The Himalayan Monal is a vibrant and magnificent bird, often called the “Jewel of the Himalayas.” With its shimmering blue, green, and red feathers, it was a sight to behold against the white snow. The Monal is known for its resilience in high-altitude conditions and is a symbol of Uttarakhand’s rich biodiversity.
The Himalayan Monal is a vibrant and magnificent bird, often called the “Jewel of the Himalayas.” With its shimmering blue, green, and red feathers, it was a sight to behold against the white snow. The Monal is known for its resilience in high-altitude conditions and is a symbol of Uttarakhand’s rich biodiversity.
Tungnath Mahadev – The Highest Shiva Temple in the World
After a challenging ascent, we finally arrived at Tungnath Mahadev—the highest Shiva temple in the world, standing at 12,073 feet.
A Sacred History – Tungnath Temple
According to legend, Tungnath is over 1,000 years old and is one of the Panch Kedar temples built by the Pandavas. It is believed that Lord Shiva’s arms appeared here when he tried to escape from the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra war.
The temple was closed due to the season, but we still took blessings from outside. Standing there, surrounded by snow, mountains, and centuries of history, I felt a deep sense of peace.
We rested here, rehydrated, and reapplied sunscreen, knowing that the real challenge was still ahead—Chandrashila was only 1 km away.
A Sacred History – Tungnath Temple
According to legend, Tungnath is over 1,000 years old and is one of the Panch Kedar temples built by the Pandavas. It is believed that Lord Shiva’s arms appeared here when he tried to escape from the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra war.
The temple was closed due to the season, but we still took blessings from outside. Standing there, surrounded by snow, mountains, and centuries of history, I felt a deep sense of peace.
We rested here, rehydrated, and reapplied sunscreen, knowing that the real challenge was still ahead—Chandrashila was only 1 km away.
The Longest 1 km – A Battle Against the Mind and Body
A signboard read: “Chandrashila – 1 km.” Just 1 km left, but it felt like the longest kilometer of my life.
The trail became extremely steep, covered in knee-deep snow. With every step, we had to carefully place our feet into the prints left by previous trekkers—one wrong step, and you could slip down the icy slopes.
Our technical guide led the way, carving a path through the deep snow. The altitude made breathing harder, and my legs felt heavier with every step.
A Moment of Exhaustion & A Voice That Pushed Me Forward
With only 10 minutes left to the top, my body almost gave up.
I stood there, breathless, exhausted, and filled with doubt. The steep, never-ending climb felt impossible.
But then, I heard a strong voice from behind—“Come on, Rinkal! Just a few more steps and you’re there!”
It was my trek leader.
That single sentence was all I needed. Summoning every last bit of strength, I pushed forward.
And then, finally—I made it.
The trail became extremely steep, covered in knee-deep snow. With every step, we had to carefully place our feet into the prints left by previous trekkers—one wrong step, and you could slip down the icy slopes.
Our technical guide led the way, carving a path through the deep snow. The altitude made breathing harder, and my legs felt heavier with every step.
A Moment of Exhaustion & A Voice That Pushed Me Forward
With only 10 minutes left to the top, my body almost gave up.
I stood there, breathless, exhausted, and filled with doubt. The steep, never-ending climb felt impossible.
But then, I heard a strong voice from behind—“Come on, Rinkal! Just a few more steps and you’re there!”
It was my trek leader.
That single sentence was all I needed. Summoning every last bit of strength, I pushed forward.
And then, finally—I made it.
Chandrashila – The Peak of the Gods (12,083 ft)
Reaching Chandrashila was an overwhelming moment. The summit offered a 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayas, with peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and Kedar Dome standing majestically before us.
Chandrashila – The Moon Rock
In Sanskrit, “Chandrashila” means “Moon Rock.” It is believed that Lord Rama meditated here after defeating Ravana. This peak has been a place of spiritual enlightenment for ages, drawing both trekkers and sages to its powerful aura.
Chandrashila – The Moon Rock
In Sanskrit, “Chandrashila” means “Moon Rock.” It is believed that Lord Rama meditated here after defeating Ravana. This peak has been a place of spiritual enlightenment for ages, drawing both trekkers and sages to its powerful aura.
An Emotional Moment – Writing a Postcard from the Summit
At the top, we did something special—a postcard activity.
We were given postcards to write a letter from the summit—to ourselves, a loved one, or even to the mountains.
I wrote my heart out, feeling a rush of emotions, gratitude, and self-discovery. Tears welled up in my eyes—I had made it, despite all the doubts and struggles.
We were given postcards to write a letter from the summit—to ourselves, a loved one, or even to the mountains.
I wrote my heart out, feeling a rush of emotions, gratitude, and self-discovery. Tears welled up in my eyes—I had made it, despite all the doubts and struggles.
The Most Fun Descent – Sliding Down the Snow!
After soaking in the summit moment, it was time to descend before the weather turned harsh.
If climbing was the hardest part, descending was pure fun! Instead of walking, we slid down the snowy slopes—laughing, screaming, and enjoying the thrill of gliding down the mountain.
If climbing was the hardest part, descending was pure fun! Instead of walking, we slid down the snowy slopes—laughing, screaming, and enjoying the thrill of gliding down the mountain.
Celebrating the Snow – My First Experience
On the way down, I finally had my first real experience of snow.
I threw snowballs, made snow angels, and simply reveled in the magic of it all. It was like being a kid again, filled with pure excitement and joy.
I threw snowballs, made snow angels, and simply reveled in the magic of it all. It was like being a kid again, filled with pure excitement and joy.
Chopta – A Tea Break Before the Final Descent
We reached Chopta, where we stopped at a roadside dhaba for a hot cup of chai. Sitting there, sipping tea, looking back at the peak I had just conquered—it was a surreal feeling.
Back to Baniyakund – A Journey That Changed Me
We continued our final descent to Baniyakund Campsite.
The trek was coming to an end, but I was leaving with more than I came with—new friendships, self-discovery, a heart full of gratitude, and a newfound love for the mountains.
The trek was coming to an end, but I was leaving with more than I came with—new friendships, self-discovery, a heart full of gratitude, and a newfound love for the mountains.
A Trek That Changed Me
The Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek wasn’t just about the mountains, the views, or the adventure. It was about finding a version of myself that I never knew existed.
It was about standing at 12,083 feet, looking at the world below, and realizing—this is what being truly alive feels like.
This was my first Himalayan trek. But it definitely won’t be my last.
It was about standing at 12,083 feet, looking at the world below, and realizing—this is what being truly alive feels like.
This was my first Himalayan trek. But it definitely won’t be my last.
Would You Do This Trek?
If you’ve ever dreamed of trekking in the Himalayas, of waking up to snow-capped peaks, walking through enchanted forests, and standing at a summit where the sky meets the earth—then do it.
Because trust me, it will change you in ways you never imagined.
Drop a comment if you’ve done this trek or if it’s on your bucket list! Let’s talk mountains, adventure, and dreams.
Because trust me, it will change you in ways you never imagined.
Drop a comment if you’ve done this trek or if it’s on your bucket list! Let’s talk mountains, adventure, and dreams.
Rinkal
Rinkal is a passionate traveler from Ahmedabad who loves exploring hidden gems, savoring local foods, and sharing adventures with fellow wanderers. Rinkal’s goal is to inspire others to travel on a budget while truly experiencing the essence of each place.
Anushri
April 6, 2025
Beautifully captured… such a sweet walk down the memory lane💫💫💫
And the most epic holiday celebration!
Hope to see you soon rinkal❤️