Magpie Jungle Camp:
We search for offbeat places to visit during our summer breaks, now that the kiddo has grown up a bit. This year we found another place that was ‘away-from-the-touristy-spots’, to spend the weekends amidst the perfect bounty of nature. The place is called Magpie Jungle Camp, situated at Chopta {located at an elevation of 2680 m above sea level} in Uttarakhand. Its mesmerizing green areas are covered with trees like oak, pine, burans, and other Himalayan species. It is built on a Meadow or Bugyal as they call it in the local language.
Chopta, an unspoiled natural beauty destination, popularly known as ‘Mini Switzerland’, lying in the laps of Himalayas offers amazing views of the imposing Himalayan range including Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Chaukhamba.
It is surrounded by a forest of pine, deodar, and rhododendron. It is rich in a variety of flora and fauna. We drove down to this place, {450 km approx} from Delhi.
Although the best time to visit is from May to November, if you want some beautiful uninterrupted view of the Himalayan peaks than I personally prefer going there during winters. It amazingly offers a 360-degree view of snow-clad mountains.
Chopta is an also a base for trekking to the ancient temple of Tungnath. Located at a distance of 1 km from Tungnath is Chandrashila Peak {4000m plus above sea level}. It offers a splendid view of snow clad Himalayan peaks. It is a place that is yet to be fully explored and one of the best hill stations in India. Chopta is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those who are passionate for trekking.
The Blue Magpie
Because of an abundance of some beautiful, colorful and exotic bird species, Chopta is becoming popular among birdwatchers. We were able to catch glimpses of some varieties found in and around the camp during the morning & evening hours.
The most popular one is the long-tailed, Yellow Billed Blue Magpie. It was too quick with its bouncy jumps and flights, but it the most frequent visitor to the camp too. Hence the name I guess 🙂
The Fun Part
But the highlight of our second day had to be my daughter’s interaction with nature! She got onto the swings on the high Deodar trees. Jumped and swung from the ropes hanging under the cool shades of the trees.
But the most fun was when she caught sight of the wooly Goats and Sheeps grazing in the meadow. She loved watching the baby goats running after their mommies for a feed. So, I asked the shepherd to help us take a picture with the smallest kid. He simply just picked him up and put it in my daughter’s lap. She loved holding it!! She said it was soft like a ball of cotton 🙂
If you are also a nature lover, then Chopta is the perfect place for you.
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