The Tungnath to Chandrashila distance is about 1.5 km one way. Most trekkers need around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to reach the summit from Tungnath Temple. The path is short but steep, and snow, ice, crowds and fitness can affect the time.
If you are starting from Chopta, the full trek to Chandrashila is about 5 km one way, or around 10 km for the return trip. This includes the climb to Tungnath Temple and the final stretch to Chandrashila summit. Some guides give different totals because they use different trail measurements or count only part of the route.
Tungnath to Chandrashila Distance at a Glance
Trek detail | Approximate distance or time |
Tungnath to Chandrashila | 1.5 km one way |
Chandrashila to Tungnath | 1.5 km downhill |
Chopta to Tungnath Temple | 3.5 km one way |
Chopta to Chandrashila summit | Around 5 km one way |
Chopta to Chandrashila and back | Around 10 km |
Tungnath to Chandrashila climb | 45 minutes to 1.5 hours |
Full Chopta to Chandrashila return trek | Around 5 to 7 hours for many trekkers |
These are planning estimates, not fixed measurements. Your actual distance and time may differ depending on the starting point, route condition, snow cover and pace.
Tungnath and Chandrashila Altitude: Why the Numbers Differ
Tungnath Temple is commonly listed at around 3,680 metres, or 12,073 feet. Chandrashila is often described as being close to 4,000 metres, or 13,123 feet. However, some published sources give a much lower figure for Chandrashila.
This disagreement means that the elevation gain should not be stated as an exact number without reliable measurements from the trail. The commonly quoted figures of 3,680 metres for Tungnath and 4,000 metres for Chandrashila suggest a difference of about 320 metres, but this is only an estimate based on those two figures.
For trip planning, the more useful fact is that the final 1.5 km climbs steeply. Even people who find the walk from Chopta manageable may need more breaks on this last section.
Is the Tungnath to Chandrashila route Difficult?
The distance is short, but the final climb is steep. Most of the main trail from Chopta to Tungnath is easier to follow than the last stretch to Chandrashila. Above the temple, the route can be rough, exposed and slippery. Beginners with reasonable fitness may manage the trek in good weather, provided they walk at a steady pace and allow enough time. It is not wise to judge the difficulty by distance alone. Snow and ice can make a short section much harder than expected.
Wear shoes with good grip, carry water and warm clothing, and avoid rushing the descent. If you reach Tungnath and find that the final path is icy or the weather is worsening, turning back is a sensible choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance between Tungnath and Chandrashila?
The distance is about 1.5 km one way. The climb usually takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on fitness and trail conditions.
What is the total Chopta to Chandrashila trek distance?
It is around 5 km one way via Tungnath Temple, or approximately 10 km for the return journey.
