PINDARI GLACIERS TREKKING
The Pindari Glacier is a glacier found in the upper reaches of the Kumaon Himalayas, to the southeast of Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot. The glacier is about three kilometers long and 365 meters wide[1] and gives rise to the Pindar River which meets the Alakananda at Karnaprayag in the Garhwal district.
Pick up arrangements will be made from the Kathgodham station as we start our journey to Loharkhet. Approximately it is a 180 km drive which will take around 7-8 hours. You will be having your breakfast and lunch on the way to Loharkhet. On the way, we'll go past Bheem Tal, Almora, Bageshwar, Kapkot. The drive from Kathgodham to Loharkhet is a scenic one and you'll be glued to the greenery which surrounds you on this route. You can withdraw cash at Kapkot because there is no ATM facility at Loharkhet. After you reach Loharkhet your accommodation will be in a guest house. Make yourself comfortable after having your dinner at your guest house.
Today, after having your breakfast at the guesthouse we'll have to drive to Kahrkia from where our trek commences. It is a 3-hour drive from Loharkhet to Kahrkia and an hours trek from Kahrkia to Khati. Kharkia is the last village on this road which intersects the trail to Khati and Jatoli village. You will also come across some local dhabas on this route where you can try out some delicious food.
On this trail, you'll get to see a blend of both rhododendrons and oak trees which add a different charm to the environment. We will be reaching Khati before lunch time and your accommodation will be in a tent. Get a taste of the surroundings by indulging in the hot served lunch. The forest here is a bit dense and offers you a splendid view of the area. Khati is an ideal spot for the trekkers and backpackers. You'll be able to see some of the stunning peaks such as Nandabaner, Nandakot and Laspadhura form Khati. BSNL network is accessible is some parts of the village. Later in the evening, you can explore the nearby area before having a hot dinner which will be served to you at the campsite.
Today, we have a bit of walking to do so make sure that you have a heavy breakfast so that you won't feel hungry later. We'll start the day early as the distance to Dwali is approximately 13 kms which will take around 6-7 hours depending on your pace. The weather here is unpredictable so it is important to start the day early just in case if it starts to rain. On this trail, you will pass across a stream which will be the first water point of the day. Make sure that you get your water bottles filled at this spot. This route offers various ascends and descends so it is important that you watch your step as some of the areas are slippery.
As you walk ahead you'll see the whole of Khati village in the background. The end of the section of the old Dwali trail is a landslide zone which is broken. While descending you'll have to be a bit careful as the soil is loose on this trail. Dwali is on the other side of the river from where you'll be able to see the Pindari Valley on the left and the Kafni Valley on the right. Both the rivers, Pindari and Kafni meet at a point where the village is located. There is a camping ground where you'll be staying for the night.
Today you'll be walking for a short distance compared to the day earlier as it is a 3-hours walk which is approximately 5kms. After having a hot cup of tea and breakfast we'll be heading to Phurkia through some of the most beautiful rhododendron forests which a treat to your eyes. You will get to see the Pindari river flowing below. On clear days you'll be treated with views of Mt. Nanda Khat and Nanda Devi right in front of you.
If you're a shutterbug then a view like this is quite a treat for you because there is a meadow, a glacial formation and you'll find a few Himalayan Ibex grazing nearby which makes it a perfect sight. The view looks beautiful as you walk along the grassland. There are some meadows covered with rhododendron forests stretching across which look scenic all the way through.
Today there will be the final two stream crossings which are layers of hard snow. You will find hard snow in the month of April and May when you may require the help of an ice axe, microspikes and crampons. As you reach the Phurkia campsite, your tents will be pitched where you'll be served hot tea and some snacks. Relax and enjoy your time at the campsite. Later in the evening, hot dinner will be served
Today we'll be heading to zero point and then will come back to Phurkia. The weather at the Pindari Glacier fluctuates a lot so it is important that you keep a note of time. It is a beautiful walk toward the Pindari Glacier which will thrill you to the fullest. We will begin our day early and try to make it as early as possible to reach the Pindari Glacier. It takes 3 to 4 hours to reach the glacier and later that amount of time to come back to Phurkia.
You will get to see the view of Mt. Nandakhat clearly. This area is a bit sensitive so you'll have to be cautious about walking on the trail. You will soon be able to see the patches of snow which can be slippery at times. It is useful if you have your crampons on while walking on this surface as it will help you get some grip.
Across the river, you can see the mighty snow-capped peak, Mt. Bauljuri. You will walk along a tricky passage while proceeding towards the valley. Make sure that you walk cautiously on this trail. Once you climb up the ridge, you'll be able to get the first view of Pindari Glacier at the left side and also the mighty Changuch in the background.
You will finally see the Pindari Glacier which is 5kms long. Along with the glacier the entire view of the snow-clad mountains. While coming back to Phurkia we'll take the same route which can be covered in a couple of hours.
Today will be one of the longest trekking days on this trek where you'll have to walk for almost 18 kms as we'll be coming from Phurkia to Khati. It is a 7-8 hour trek and we'll begin by having our morning breakfast. We'll be descending from Phurkiya to Dwali which will take less than 2 hours and then from Dwali to Khati which is a 4-5 hours stretch
Plan your day accordingly so that you reach Kathgodam by evening. Khati to Kharkia will be a one hour trek. From Kharkia pickup facility will be arranged to take you back to Kathgodam.
Nanda Devi East Base Camp Trekking Tour
Season: April - 15 July and September - October
Maximum Altitude: 4150 m (Nanda Devi East base camp
Grade: Moderate
Duration: 15 days
Overnight train/drive from Delhi to Kathgodam. From Kathgodam its about 300 kms drive to Munsyari via Almora and will take about 8-9 hrs. This very high adventure trek starts at Munsiyari (2290M), situated at a distance of about 120 kms from Pithoragarh. Munsyari is a small beautiful hamlet with a scenic array of waterfalls and home to the Johari Tribe who are famed for their ayurvedic medicines and woolen shawls. Breathtaking views of the Panchchuli can be seen form here and Munsyari is the base for trekkers to Milam, Namik, Ralam glaciers & the Nanda Devi Peak. The views from Milam Glacier of Trishuli, Hardeol and Rishi Pahar are a sight to behold. The whole trip is dotted with many such sightings, but one of the best highlights remain the beautiful meadows at the Nanda Devi Base camp that would delight one and all. If luck is favoring you on this trip you might even sight the elusive Snow Leopard or the Himalayan musk deer.
Board Ranikhet Express from Old Delhi railway station at 2245 hrs and reach Kathgodam early next morning at 0600 hrs.
Travelling Distance: Approx 300 kms
From Kathgodam drive towards Munsyari via Almora. This will take about 8-9 hrs.
Start trekking towards Darkot, 5kms from Munsyari. From Darkot we start the descent to the Gori Ganga and continue descending until we reach the River at Jimighat. This is the lowest point of the trail and from here we start climbing to Lilam. On arrival setup camp for overnight stay.
On this trail, you'll get to see a blend of both rhododendrons and oak trees which add a different charm to the environment. We will be reaching Khati before lunch time and your accommodation will be in a tent. Get a taste of the surroundings by indulging in the hot served lunch. The forest here is a bit dense and offers you a splendid view of the area. Khati is an ideal spot for the trekkers and backpackers. You'll be able to see some of the stunning peaks such as Nandabaner, Nandakot and Laspadhura form Khati. BSNL network is accessible is some parts of the village. Later in the evening, you can explore the nearby area before having a hot dinner which will be served to you at the campsite.
Head for Bugdiar. 5 kms from the start we cross the confluence of Ralam River and Gori Ganga. Shepherds with their flocks of sheep and goats are a common sight at the meadows of Bugdiar. On arrival set up campsite. Overnight stay in tents.
We continue trekking along the Gori Ganga through series of narrow gorges. This beautiful trail passes through gorges and meadows leading to Railkot. The trek continues to the village Martoli situated at the edge of Lwan Gad Valley. Overnight stay in tent
We descend to a bridge over the Lwan Gad and continuing further we cross the bridge over the Gori Ganga. The trail goes on to the left bank and a short climb brings us to Burphu Village (3350 M). The valley opens up here and one get a spectacular view of several peaks. Trekking further we will reach the village Milam. Overnight stay in tents.
After breakfast trek towards the Glacier. Visit the Glacier and the magnificent peaks of Rishi Pahar (6692 M), Hardeol (7151 M) and Trishuli 1 (7074 M). Later start retracing steps towards Milam village. Overnight stay in tents.
Day for rest/acclimatization/exploration.
We start to descend towards Lwani today and Camps opposite the settlements of Lwani. Overnight stay in tents.
Start trekking towards base camp following the Lwan valley. The trail passes through a series of moraine fields and famous meadows of Sartol Kharak (3650 M) and Naspanpatti (3850 M) finally leads to the Nanda Devi East base camp. The meadows at the base camp are a sight to see. Overnight stay in tents
Today we trek about 3 odd km towards southeast of the Nanda Devi East. Explore the terrain and return back in the afternoon. This is the route leading to Trails Pass that links the upper Lwanl valley with the Pindari valley. Overnight stay in tents.
Start retracing steps towards Martoli. Its generally downhill and is an easy leisurely walk. Overnight stay in tents.
Trek towards Bugdiar passing through Railkot. This will take approximately 5 hrs. Overnight stay in tents.
Day for rest/acclimatization/exploration.
Last day of the trek. We start leisurely towards Munsyari. The walk is comfortable and takes around five hours. Overnight stay in Guest house
DEarly morning drive from Munsyari towards Kathgodam to board Ranikhet Express for Delhi at 2040 hrs.
Adi Kailash Yatra
Adi Kailash (4770 M) also known as Chhota Kailash is an area filled with great natural beauty, peace and serenity with its appearance distinctly similar to Mount Kailash in Tibet. The area of Adi Kailash is in close proximity with Indian-Tibetan border. Trekking at Adi-Kailash routes will bring the people a healing quietude conducive to liking inward and discouraging with one's inner self.
The Starting point of trek is Lakhanpur which is 50 kms drive from Darchula goes via Lamari, Budhi, Nabhi, Nampha, Kutti, Jyollingkong, Nabidhang, Om Parvat and Kala paani, which is then joined with the Darma valley via the Shin La pass. This is a slightly tougher trek and being of a longer duration, the trek requires careful planning and detailed analysis keeping in mind the needs of the trekking. During Adi-Kailash trekking, the tourists will come across the mighty splendor of the snow peaks of Annapurna, the gushing Kali River, thick Forest, Narayan Ashram full of wild flowers and rare variation of fruits and number of waterfalls.
Further, the trek of Adi-Kailash will also take the trekkers to the famous Kali temple at Kalapani which is a very auspicious place and is 14 kms from Aum Parvat. Aum Parvat is on the way to Kailash Manasarovar and the snow deposition pattern gives the impression of the Hindu sacred syllable 'AUM' (?) written on it. Besides, the Sumchuma is a miracle stream found near Adi Kailash that flows every three days and halts for three days in a continuous circle throughout the year. Aachri Taal, Parvati Sarovar and Gauri Kund are some of the very auspicious and pristine water bodies in these regions.
According to this itinerary we will have to trek 76 kms less. More comfortable and less time consuming. Compare it with any itinerary you will see the difference.
In the morning Catch AC Shatabdi Train to Kathgodam. Arrival at Kathgodam by 11:30 hrs and from here drive to Pithoragarh. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
SIn the morning after breakfast Drive to Darchula. On arrival check in to hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at Guest House.
After early breakfast drive to Lakhanpur/Pangla and from here trek 9 kms to Lamari/Malpa. Packed lunch will serve enroute. Tea and dinner at Lamari. Overnight stay in Tent.
Today we will have heavy breakfast and later start 5 kms trek to Budhi and from here if you are lucky then you may get a gypsy for your next destination, otherwise continue trek for 4 kms to Chialekh followed by Nabi which is another 14 kms trek. Overnight stay in tent.
In the morning after breakfast drive to Nampa by Gypsy which is 14 km away from Nabhi and once you arrive at Nampa, Tea and snacks will served here. After that trek 5 kms to Kutti. Overnigt stay at old village guest house.
After early breakfast trek to Jyolingkong or one can ride horses by own. Snacks break at Samchuma. Continue trek to Jollingkong where lunch and dinner will be organized followed by a stay over at the tents.
In the morning after breakfast visit the temple located on the banks of Parvati Sarovar where you can perform Parikrama of Parvati lake. After which we can head to Gaurikund which is located around 4 km. Lunch at Campsite and later return to Kutti via Samchuma where snacks are provided. Dinner and home stay at Kutti.
Today after breakfast at Kutti trek to Nampa and from here take Gypsy to Nabhi. Overnight stay.
In the morning after breakfast visit Nabidang to sightseeing of Om Parvat and Kalapani Temple by Gypsy (22 kms). Breakfast and lunch will serve at Kalapani. Dinner and overnight stay at Nabi.
After breakfast we head directly to Budhi and later will have lunch, evening tea and delectable dinner at Lamari/Malpa.
In the morning after breakfast trek to Lakhanpur and from here drive to Darchula. Dinner and overnight stay at Guest House.
After early drive to Kathgodam and from here catch AC Night train for Delhi. Arrival at Delhi by next morning in between 05:00 - 06:00hrs.
Panchachuli Base Camp Trek
The Panchchuli peaks lie in the Eastern Kumaon Himalaya and form the watershed between the Gori Ganga and Darma Valleys. Dharma Valley is 134 kms from Pithoragarh and 35 kilometers from Dharchula. From Sobla to Pancha chuli Glacier is a 40-kilometer trek. The route to the glacier is flourished with an impressive combination of enthralling scenery, snowcapped mountains, gushing streams, Alpine meadows and a rich variety of flora & fauna...
And from the glacier the trekkers would be able to find the Pancha chuli peaks in their towering glory.
The eastern and the southern Balati glaciers guard the western approaches by nestling closely in the lap of the snow capped peaks of Panch Chulli. From Sobla to Pancha Chuli Glacier is a 40-kilometer trek which then passes through the tribal villages of Dar, Bungling, Sela, Nagling, Baaling and Duktu / Dantu village in the Darma Valley before reaching finally at Punch Chulli Glacier.
The final road head is 42 kms from Dharchula (dist. Pithoragarh). Dar to Panchachuli Glacier is a pleasant walk and the trail goes through the tribal Villages of Bongling, Sela, Nagling, Baaling and Duktu along the river Dhauliganga and thick Forests of deodar and Bhojpatra and conifer. Trekking around Panch Chuli Base Camp is really an enthralling experience to enjoy all around the year its pleasant atmosphere.
Upon arrival at Delhi met our representative and then transfer to hotel for overnight stay.
Early in the morning drive to Almora via Kathgodam. Lunch enroute. Arrival at Almora by evening. On arrival check in to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast drive to Dharchula via Munsyari. On arrival check in to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in the hote
In the morning we will take a short but exciting drive to Sobla via Tawaghat and from here trek up to Dhar. Sobla is the entry point to the Darma Valley and is the starting point of our trek. On arrival at Dhar village set out a camp for dinner and overnight stay.
This is an easy day for trek. Today we will trek upwards and downwards. Dinner and overnight in tents.
In the morning after breakfast we will trek up to Baaling. The trek is full of adventures. On arrival set out camp for dinner and overnight stay.
In the morning we will trek up to Duktu and Dantu. These are two adjacent villages which are the last centers of human habitation in this part of Darma valley. The view of the Panch Chuli peaks from here is just magnificent. You can find a huge meadow in the outskirts of Duktu. One can see the magnificent view of Panch Chuli glacier with the backdrop of the Panch Chuli peaks. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
In the morning we will trek up to Pancha Chuli glacier. The day is memorable to explore the Panch Chuli glacier from our base camp at Duktu. The glacier projects outwards from the East face of Panch Chuli and a 4 kms. The place itself provides an incredible scenery of a sprawling meadow bordered by tall oak and birch trees with the Panch Chuli (6904 mts./22652 ft.) looming in the background. After exploring the area trek back to base camp at Duktu. Dinner and overnight stay at camp.
After breakfast trek back to Nagling. From Duktu to Nagling is a gradual descent and the days walk takes around 5 hours
In the morning we will trek down to Bungling. The trek is easy to downwards. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
This is our last day of trekking. We will trek down 5 kms to reach Sobla and from here drive to Dharchula. Dinner and overnight stay in hotel.
In the morning drive to Almora via Munsyari. Dinner and overnight stay in hotel.
After an early breakfast drive to Delhi. On arrival at Delhi transfer to airport to catch your onwards flight.
Kafni Glacier Trekking
On the same route as of Pindari and Sunderdunga but slightly different near the end lies Kafani Glacier which is a name trekkers are surely aware of. It is often said that the trek route is more fun than the small-sized (3 Km length) glacier in itself if compared to the other glaciers located around the same area.
The glacier could be reached by both Almora and Kathgodam depending upon the route taken. From here on, Bageshwar becomes the common beginning point which after passing several villages takes to Khatiya after which the Kafani Glacier is located. This glacier acts as the feed for Kafani River that merges with River Pindar which finally takes to River Alaknanda. This merging as everyone knows results into ends in River Ganges, making it one of the mightiest ‘water lifeline of India’.
One more reason of the popularity of the glacier is the ease of tackling the challenge in compared to the Pindari. The glacier could be approached beyond ‘Zero Point’ without needing any climbing gears and equipment unlike the other one.
Up on arrival at Delhi airport met our representative and then transfer to hotel for overnight stay.
After breakfast half day sightseeing at Delhi. By evening board a night train for Kathgodam. Overnight journey.
Arrival at Kathgodam by early in the morning and then drive to Bageshwar. Bageshwar is situated at the confluence of river Saryu, Gomati and the latent Bhagirathi. On arrival check in to hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel.
In the morning after breakfast drive to Song and from here trek to Loharkhet. Loharkhet, a small hamlet on the banks of river Saryu. On arrival set out camp for overnight stay.
In the morning we will trek to Khati. Khati is the biggest village enroute Pindari. Dinner and overnight stay in tents
In the morning trek to Phurkia. Phurkia, where the trees give way to alpine pastures and shepherds can be seen guiding their large flock across grazy uplands. Dinner and overnight stay in tents
In the morning we will trek up to Zero point. From Zero point, we can see the view of Pindari Glacier. After exploring zero point trek to Dwali. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
After early breakfast trek to Kafni glacier left of the Pinder valley and the Nandakot. From Kafni glacier we can see the main Himalayan ranges. After exploring Kafni glacier trek back to Dwali for dinner and overnight stay.
In the morning we will trek to Dhakuri. Dhakuri - Binjak ridge offers a view of the snow-clad Nandakot summit to the east of Maktoli to the west. Dinner and overnight stay in Dhakuri.
In the morning we will trek up to Song and then further drive to Bageshwar. Dinner and 0vernight stay in Bageshwar.
In the morning drive to Kathgodam and from here take a night train for Delhi. overnight journey.
Arrival at Delhi by morning then transfer to hotel for relax. Evening transfer to airport to catch your onwards flight. Trip & services ends here...
Sunderdhunga Trekking
If trekker knows about the place to some extent, he would know that even the name expresses the place to some extent, the magnificence of the scenery if far beyond the word ‘sunder (which means beautiful)’ and ‘dunga’ (or ‘doonga’ which means ‘valley of stones’) can express together. In all its harmony, every single elements of Nature stands out to express its presence there (even fire when camps are set up).
The point that goes to Pindari is from where the journey to Sunderdhunga also starts. However, it takes turn just from Khati towards Jaikholi, Dudhiya Dhaung, Kathalia to reach to the Glacier. Moreover the valley could also be explored for two other glaciers that are no less in caching attention, Maiktoli and Sukhram.
The scenery is made complete by the presence of the four main peaks towering over 6000 ft. They are Tharkot, Maiktoli, Pawali Dwar and Mrigthuni. The trekking holidays to Sunderdhunga glacier is best enjoyed in the months Apr to Jun and Sep to Oct which generally takes 8 to 10 days.
Upon arrival at Delhi met our representative and then transfer to hotel for overnight stay.
Early in the morning drive to Ranikhet via Kathgodam, Bhimtal. Arrival at Ranikhet by evening. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
This is an 8 km trek; Khati is the largest village on this route Sunderdhunga Base Camp Trekking and is on the banks of the Pinder Ganga.The people here are extremely hospitable and legend has it that they are the descendents of the race who provided shelter to.
In the morning after breakfast drive to Song and from here trek to Loharkhet. Loharkhet, a small hamlet on the banks of river Saryu. On arrival set out camp for overnight stay.
In the morning trek to Jatoli village, from Khati we will follow the Pinder River up to Warbham - the meeting place of Pinder River and Sunderdhunga stream. Now along Sunderdhunga stream, reach Jatoli crossing boulders ascent for night halt. Dinner & overnight stay in camps.
The distance covered today is 12 km through thick alpine forest for more than half the journey. You will also see the Saria River today. Kathalia is the last inhabited village (if you can call it that). Overnight in tents.
In the morning we will trek up to Sunderdunga view point passes through Sukhram Cave. Today we will trek 10 kms and it will take 4-5 hrs to reach over there. On arrival set out camp for dinner and overnight stay.
After breakfast start a trek with a steep climb of 4 kms to reach Sunderdhunga Base Camp Trek Maiktoli top and from here you feel that you will touch the peak.The day is memorable for the adventure lover. Back to Kathalia for dinner and overnight stay.
Trek back to Jatoli. Dinner and overnight stay in tents..
Trek back to Khati. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
In the morning trek back to Dhakuri. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
In the morning trek to Song (13 kms/ 5-6 hrs) and then drive back to Bageshwar. On arrival check in to hotel for dinner and overnight stay..
IIn the morning drive to Delhi via Kathgodam. Arrival at Delhi by evening.
