Kedarnath Vasukital Trek
Kedarnath is at an altitude of 3584m.
A magnificent temple was built by the Pandavas at the base of Kedarnath peak’s
south-eastern face, and millions of pilgrims now come to offer their prayers to
Lord Shiva.
The trek starts from Gaurikund, where
there is a hot water Sulphur Spring. While approaching kedarnath, one passes
through forests and comes across some beautiful waterfalls en-route. Kedarnath
to Vasukital is a continuous ascent, offering a great trek. The view of Chaukhamba
peak and Mandakini
Valley is wonderful from
here.
Vasukital Lake is about ½ kms in radius with
crystal clear water.
Panch Kedar Trek - High Altitude
The Panch kedar trek includes all the
five shrines associated with the legend. All of them are situated in the kedar
valley. At kedarnath, which is situated at the head of mandakini River,
the Linga is a natural rock that resembles the rump of a bull.
Madhmaheshwar is situated at the base
of Chaukhamba peak at an altitude of 3500m. Here the Linga is worshiped in the
form of a navel. Tungath where the arm of shiva appeared is the highest temple
in Garhwal and is situated at an altitude of 3810m. 500 meters above the temple of Tunganath is Chandrashila. The panoramic
view of the Himalayas is breathtaking from
here. Rudranath is where the face of shiva had appeared. Here there is a
natural rock temple, in which the shiva Mukha is worshipped. To rach Rudranath,
one has to trek through alpine meadows and dense forests, crossing an altitude
of more than 400m.
Kalpeshwar is situated in the
beautiful valley
of Urgam. There is a cave
temple here, and shiva is worshiped in his matted hair form.
Kalindikhal Trek - High Altitude
This trek is for the more
adventurous; with a fundamental knowledge of the mountains. It is an extension
of the Nandavan trek, eastward to Ghastoli and then to Badrinath via
Kalindikhal pass [5967m] the trek takes you from Nandanvan to vasukital after
due acclimatization. From vasukital to Mana, the trek falls in the ‘inner
line’. Do remember to take necessary permissions.
Gangotri Nandawar Tapovan Trek - High Altitude
Gaumukh is where the waters of Ganga tricke down from the glaciers. The sages called it
‘Gaumukh’, because in the distant past, it probably appeared like a cow’s
mouth; though today, it no longer appears so. From Gangotri you move along the
beaten track towards Chirbasa, which is on the treeline. From here you can have
a clear view of the Bhagirathi peak Beyond Chirbase the terrain becomes really
desolate and barren. In fact, it has been referred to as the Arctic Tundra by
many trekkers. From Chirbase you reach Bhojwasa. Gaumukh Glacier is just four
kilometers ahead. To reach Nandanvan, you take a detour from Bhojwasa. Here,
you get the first glimpse of shivlinga peak, like an ice-cream cone rising
towards the sky. Nandanvan is another day’s-trek ahead. From Gaumukh to Tapovan
the ascent is steep, and as you climb the view of the surrounding peak becomes
clearer. They appear to be just a stones throw away. Nandanvan situated at the
base of the Bhagirathi group of peaks, and can be reached after crossing the
Gangotri Glacier. It is an alpine meadow nestling in the shadow of the
Bhagirathi peaks.
Dodital Yamunotri Trek - High Altitude
Dodital is at an elevation of 3024
meters above mean sea level. North of Uttarkashi. Crystal clear waters are
surrounded by dense Oak woods, pine, Deodar and Rhododendrones. The lake is
full of fishes and rare species of Himalayan Golden Trout. The forest
surrounding the lake is also full of wild life. It provides an idyllic set up
for rest and recreation activites like Angling, Boating and Bird Watching. From
Dodital, it’s two day trek to Hanumanchatti via Darwa Top. Darwa Top provides a
majestiv view of Himalayan
Ranges including
Bandarpoonch, Kala Naag etc.
Valley of Flowers Trek
T.G Longstaff and Frank Smythe for
the outside world discovered this enchanting place by chance in 1931, though
the local villagers of Bhundar
Valley knew it as
Nandankanan since time immemorial. They feared venturing into the valley,
because of the spirts and faires that were thought to be haunting the beautiful
valley. They feared that the spirits would carry them away. More than thousand
varieties of flowers, ferns, and Himalayan herbs grow in the valley. The most
beautiful of all Himalayan flowers, the Blue Primula can be seen blooming in
thousands in the valley. The best time to see the valley in full bloom is mid-
july to mid August. To reach the valley one has to trek from govind Ghat on the
route to Hemkund Sahib upto Ghangaria, 14 KMS ahead. Few furlongs ahead of
Ghangaria the trek route to the valley takes a detour towards left. The valley
is about five kilometers from Ghangaria.
Khatling Sahasratal Trek
The Khating glacier is a lateral
glacier, at the source of the river Bhilangana. Sahasratal and Masartal are on
the west and east of it respectively. The valley of Bhilangana
affords a panoramic view of snow capped peaks and hanging glaciers. Jogin
group, Kirtistambha and Meru are sublime and magnificent. The entire trek
passes through thick forests and beautiful lush green meadows in the beginning.
Later, it crosses 2 passes above 17000 ft. and negotiates glaciers, morains and
a snow patch.
Har Ki Doon Trek
Har-ki-doon, the hanging valley of
gods is a treat for trekkers. This moderate-difficult trek takes you to one of
the least explored regions of Garhwal. The best time to go for this trek is
either june-july or October. The rest of the year is either very cold and wet,
or the valley is mostly shrouded by clouds. The beautiful scenery and the
glistening snow clad Swargarohini peak are the main attractions. As Har-ki-Doon
falls within the Govind Pashu Vihar, Chances of seeing wildlife are very
bright. In September-October, Chances of seeing wild flowers are also good.
Osla, one of the most beautiful
villages in the Fateh Parvat region, should not be missed. Here, you have a
beautifully carved temple dedicated to Duryodhana, the Kaurava Prince. And if
you are interested in Glaciers than Jaundhar Glacier is just about 8 Kilometers
from Har-Ki-Doon. It is a steep climb and requires some mountaineering skills.
The glaciers is situated at an altitude of 4300m.
Roopkund Trek
Roopkund is situated at a height of
5029 in the lap of trishul massif. This is usually called the ‘Mystery lake’
since human skeletons and remains of horses were found here the lake,
surrounded by rock strewn glaciers and snow clad peaks are magnificent and
enchanting.
Uttarkashi Lata Budhakedar Pawalikantha Kedarnath Trek
This trek provides you with one of
the rarest views of the entire range of Yamnotri-Gangotri-Kedarnath-Badrinath
mountain peaks. In the process you pass through the seven bugyals of panwali
Kantha, where if you are lucky. You might catch a glimpse of blue-mountain-goat.
This trek is part of the ancient pilgrims’ traill from Gangotri to kedarnath,
in the tradition of vamavrata yatra that began from yamunoti and ended at
Badrinath, after paying respects at the Gangotri and Kedarnath shrines.
Kalsi Lakhamandal Trek
This is a cultural and historical
trek in the Jaunsar-Babar region, at the foothills of the stately Garhwal
Himalayas; between the rivers Yamuna and tons. The tribes here, known as
Jaunsaris, practive polygamy and polyandry. The villages enroute are worth
seeing for their cultural and architectural richness. The trek is rich with
flora and fauna and is an unforgettable experience for ornithologists.
Kuari Pass Trek
Lord Curzon made the trek to kauri
pass, and since then it has come to be known as Curzon’s trall. It is very
popular among European and American travelers. In 1905, Lord Curzon reached
Kurzon reached kauri pass from Ghat via Ramni. Today many trekkers prefer to
undertake the trek in the reverse direction. They climb the ridge above Tapovan,
and reach Gailgarh, where the trail coming bugyal through Gorson Top. The trek
should not be undertaken in winters, as a major portion of the trail is covered
with snow. The main attraction of Curzon’s trail is the majestic view of the
twin peaks of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri,
and Hathi-Ghodi Parvat. Along the trek we’ll pass through pristine
Rhododerndron, Oak, and Deodar forests. Rare Himalayan flora and fauna are
aplenty on the trail. At Tapovan there is a massive sulphur spring. The wters
of the spring are said to have excellent medicinal properties.
Binsar Trek
We reach Thailisain, via pauri, which
is an enchanting township. From piersain and Binsar, a panoramic view of the
stately Garhwal Himalayan peaks is visible. From Thailisain, the trek trails
through very rich forests of Deodar, silver fir, Pine and Oaks; all brimming
with wildlife. This trek is full of life and we can assure you will enjoy the
scenic beauty throughout the trek.
Nagtibba Trek
Nagtibba, as the name suggests is the
abode of the Nag Devta. The shepherds of the aglar valley on the northside of
Mussoorie hills, known as jaunpur, come to this ridge top to worship the Nag
Devta. Nagtibba offers an excellent view of the mountain peaks in all
directions. To reach the top one has to pass through dense forest, and it
advisable to take a guide, lest you get lost on the way. There is enough space
for camping in the meadow, and the water source is nearby. Nagtibba can be
climbed from two sides. Most trekkers prefer the pantwari side, which is a
beautiful village symbolizing the culture of Jaunpur. From here begins the
climb to the Nagtibba top. You can get down on the other side, to the village of Devalsari. From here the road head at
thatyur is not thatyur and coming down at pantwari.
Devi-Darshan Trek
The trek is for those who wish to see Himalayan ranges but do
not have the inclination for tougher treks. Three ‘siddh peeths’ –
Chandrabadni, Surkanda Devi and Kanjapuri, are on top of hills in a triangular
from, named after goddess Durga. From each temple the others are visible, and
present a panoramic view of the mighty Garhwal Himalayas and the Doon valley.
Each temple is approachable by motor and by short treks of an
hour each from nearest motor heads. Each temple at the top of the hills, deeply
inspires you to transcend into mediation and spirituality.
Chandrashila Winter Summit Trek
It is a popular trek that can be undertaken round the year.
Except during heavy snowing months of December and January. Chandrashila summit
is a rock face above the temple of Tungnath, the highest of all the temples in the Himalayas. It is a short but rigorous hike beyond the
temple. The Chandrashila summit affords the most beautiful view of the
Nandadevi, Trishul, Kedarpeak and Chaukhamba peaks. If the sky is clear you get
the feeling that you are sitting in a sea of mountains. So, start early in the
morning and you might be able to catch a clear sky. The Oak forest through which you trek to the
summit abounds in wildlife, especially foxes, pheasants, musk-deer, and
leopards. But it is safe, as the animals keep away from the trail. We begin at
chopta, which is one of the most mesmerizing alpine meadows in Garhwal
Himalayas, whats more; it also offers excellent camping opportunities. And if
we’re here in the month of March, there are good chances that as we climb from
Ukhimath to chopta we may get the rare opportunity to see Rhododendron flowers
in shades varying from crimson-red to bright white.
Bhadrai Jwala Devi Kempty Fall Trek
This trek has been specially crafted
for the beginner & combines elementary trekking with some sight- seeing and
picnicking. The climbs are not too difficult, and yet offer ample opportunities
to the young explorer to soak-in the sight and sounds that nature bestows these
hills with.
Rishikesh Auli Kuari Pass Tapovan Trek
As we approach Kuari pass through the Auli – Gorson Meadows,
at an elevation of 4265m, we will be in the heart of Chamoli District, in the
north eastern part of Garhwal. From Gorson, the imposing view of the eastern
peaks of Garhwal Himamalayas is unforgettable enchanting. They appear so near,
that one feels like reaching out and touching them. The peaks visible from
kauri pass are Nandadevi, Dunagiri, Bethartoli, Devasthan etc.
Yamunotri Pass Ruinsiara Har-Ki-Doon Trek
The trek to Ruinsiara Tal can be
taken from either the Har-ki-Doon side of from the Yamunotri side. From Osla we
follow the trail that goes along a stream, until we reach a glaciar rivulet
that passes through boulders, and leads into a birch forest. Following the
trail, as it tends to turn left, we’ll find the Ruinsiara Tal on our left. The
lake is hidden between a small ridge and the left wall of the valley. There is
enough space to camp here; we’ll even find rock shelters to protect us from
that surprise shower. The trail further goes up to the Bandarpunch Base Camp,
from where an excellent view of the Bali pass
can be enjoyed. The trek route from Yamunotri
Pass, situated 12 kms
ahead of Yamunotri, goes through dense forest and is somewhat difficult
compared to the route form Osla to Ruinisara.
Nandadevi National Park Trek
This is the last human inhabitation
on this trekking route. Trekkers are given an exposure to their unique culture
and customs of the region.
The first day of actual trekking is
probably the toughest and invo9lves a steep ascent of almost 1524m, with a
break at Belta. This stretch can be anything from 6 to 10 hrs. depending on the
trekkers. However it is an excellent stretch for acclimatization. The next day,
one wakes up at dawn to breathtaking view of Mount Bithartoli-Himal (6354m),
Nanda Ghunti (6309m), Ranthi Peak (6003m), Dronagiri (7066m) and the vast view
of Kuari pass, Auli Urgam Valley and lata village. The trek to Dharansi pass
begins with a steep clim upto jhandi Dhar and further up to Bagfyana pass. From
here the trail passes through a very narrow gorge of Satkula with steep ascents
and descents and finally one arrives at the meadow of Dharansi.
On day 6, the beginning of the trail
upto Doni Dhar is a gradual descent and then onwards to Debrugheta is a steep
descent of 750m till one crosses to the improvised bridge over the stream.
The return trek takes a different
rout from Handi Dhar, and goes on to Hitoli camp site. This stretch passes
through rich forests of rhododendron, birch and ragafur.
Nanda Devi Nation Park, the greater area Containing the sanctuary and home to
Bharals, snow Leapord, Musk Deer, Himalayan Deer and hundreds of species of
birds, was closed for human beings in 1982 to protect its deteriorating
bio-diversity. With no human intervention, the bio-diversity became richer and
now, the NDNP has been declared a world heritage site. It has also been
partially opened to a restricted number of trekkers. The visitors to NDNP can
move only in groups and each group consisting of no more than 5 people. Not
more than 2 groups are permitted in a day and no more than 4 groups permitted
in a week. One registered guide will accompany every group of 5. The park is
open from the 1st may to 31st October
It is mandatory for the trekkers to
obey and observe all the provisions wildlife protection act inside the park
area.
Adi Kailash Trek
Mount Adi
Kailash also known as Chhota kailash, is an ancient holy place in the Kumaon
Himalayas, quite similar to mount kailash in Tibet. It is situated close to the
indo-Tibet border in pithoragarh district. The trek begins and ends at Mangti.
The first five days of the trek are on the same route as the pilgrimage to mount kailash
and Mansarovar. In the last village in this valley, kuti, one gets to see the
Pandava fort, natural salt mines and intricately engraved doors and windows of
the village houses. The last stretch up to Adi kailash also known as Jolingkong
is only 14 kms from kuti. In close promimity os parvati Tal, with Shiv Parvati
temple on its shore. This route offers breathtaking landscapes and panoramic
view of the mountain ranges of kumaon Himalayas, the snow capped Api and Nampa, the gushing Kali
river, Bhojpatra forests, the serene Narayan Ashram as well as numerous
waterfalls.
Milam Glacier Trek
The base camp for Milam Glacier is
Munsiyari [2290m], in Pithoragarh district. From Munsiyari, the trek to Lilam
is mostly downhill along the Gori Ganga river. Enroute Bugdiyar to Riekot is a
thickly forested area from where the land opens into the Gori Ganga valley.
After crossing the Gori
Ganga River,
and below Burfu village, one gets an uninterrupted view of the nanda devi and
Hardeol peaks, right upto Milam glacier. The Milam glacier summit at 3872m is
the nodal point for a different high grade routes and peaks. The main peaks are
Hardeol (7151m), Burphudhura (6215m) and Kalabulanddhura (6215m).
Dindari Glacier Trek
The most easily accessible glacier in
the kumaon region, the pindari Glacier has a beauty of its own. Situated
between the snow-capped Nanda Devi and Nanda kot Mountains.
As one trek along the route
surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, every
inch becomes a fresh song of nature and at every curve the eyes embrace a new
landscape more beautiful than before, Reading the upper levels. The trees fall
off, the pines cease and the road enters an enchanted garden of fern, wild
flowers ands rhododendron. The glacier, over 3.2 kilometers in length and 1.5km
broad, backed by mighty mountains, loom-up on the traveler with a gorgon gaze,
leaving an indelible impression of grandeur, situated on the Nanda Devi and
Nanda kote peaks, it extends from 3520m to above sea level, on an open,
undulating piece of ground. To the east is a lofty moraine constituted of
gravel, mud and blocks of snow embedded in ice a ground past, over the glacier,
at a height of 5393 metres leads to the Trails’s pass. A trip to the Pindari
Glacier is well within the capacity of any trekker, amply rewarded by magnificence
of the mighty Himalayas.
Kafni Glacier Trek
Kafni glacier is situated on the left
side of Pindar valley under majestic mountain Nandakot. This region has its own
charm with the solitude it presents. This region is very rich in wildlife.
There are no rest houses beyond Dwali and one has to spend nights in tents or
caves. Main peaks near the glacier are Nandakot 6860 meters, Nandabhanar 6104
meters.
Sunderdhunga Trek
This valley is on the right side of
Pindar valley. Sunderdhunga literally means valley of beautiful stones. The
famous glaciers of this valley are maiktoli Glacier (6804 M) and Sukhram
glacier and main peaks are Tharkot (6100 M), Mrigthuni (6856 M), Maiktoli (6804
M) and Pawali Dwar (6663 meters). The route to sunderdhunga is the same upto
khati as is for the trek to Pindari and kafni.
Danchachuli Glacier Trek
From Jatoli upto Dhunia Dhaun, about
8Kms is a tough trek. One should spend the night in Dhungia Dhuan either in
shepherd huts or in pitched tents. One hundred and thirty four kilometers from
pithoragarh and 35 Kilometers from Dharchula is the last bus terminal sobla.
From sobla to panchachuli Glacier is a 40-kilometer terk. The route to the
glacier abounds in exotic scenery, snow-capped mountains, gushing streams,
alpine meadows and a rich variety of flora & fauna. And from the glacier
one can see the panchachuli peaks in their towering glory. On the final lap at
village Duktu/Dantu one gets the majestic spectacle of panchachuli that derives
its name from the five peaks, named after the legendary pandavas. The
interesting part of this trek is that the trekkers will be sojourning in the
traditional houses of the local people and will have a face to face interaction
with the indigenous culture and local tradition.
