India's mini Switzerland, Chopta boasts of the most pristine terrains. Perhaps it's the distance from urban towns or the lack of awareness amongst tourist circles, that Chopta has remained an offbeat destination for so long. Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Chopta offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests and shimmering streams. The beginning point of numerous treks, Chopta is not your regular hill station. With its hidden trails, quiet nooks and the warmest of home-stays, the quaint hilly town offers travellers an unforgettable experience. The Chopta-Chandrashila trek through oak and deodar thickets is one of Garwhal's most jaw-dropping trails and takes you to an elevation of 4090m. Do plan a relatively long trip as the route to Chopta is slightly tricky and you may have to change a few buses on the way. If you'd prefer travelling by train, do book your tickets way in advance, keeping in mind that there's no direct train to Chopta.