Due to its close proximity with the Himalayan mountain ranges, Uttarakhand is full of mountains and hills perfect for skiing, trekking, mountain climbing, hiking, camping, paragliding, thus making it irresistible for the adventure tourists.
Think of trekking and the first place that pops up in our minds is none other than Uttarakhand. You can do a lot of things in Uttarakhand. If you like trekking you can go for Chandrashila trek, Kedarkantha trek.
Uttarakhand |
Let us discuss about some of the best treks in Uttarakhand.
1. Kedarkantha Trek
A perfect blend of adventure and scenic beauty, Kedarkantha trek is ideal for all the age groups including children and amateurs too. The trek includes covering up 18 km in a time span of 5-6 days. Kedarkantha is a stand-alone mountain offering multiple routes to the summit. There is a high level of snow in the second half of December hence, it is also an ideal time for trekking on this mountain since you can experience the snowfall.
The highlights of Kedarkantha trek are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 12500 feet
Trek Durations – 5-6 days
Best Season – Winter (December – April)
Difficulty Level – Easy
2. Kedartal Trek
Kedartal trek, located in Gangotri region of Garhwal Himalayas is an ideal trek for the mountain connoisseurs. It offers the glimpses of the remarkable views of some Himalayan ranges like the Bhrigupanth peak, the Thalaya Sagar peak and the Jogin peaks. This glacial lake is one of the jewels of Uttarakhand. Several mountain wildlife species like the Goral, Himalayan Black Bear, and the blue sheep are commonly seen in these regions.
Kedartal is a glacial lake located at an altitude of 4,750 m in the Garhwal Himalayan region. The lake is fed by falling snow on Thalay Sagar, Meru Peak, Bhrigupanth and other surrounding peaks, and is the source of Kedar Ganga, which in mythology is considered the contribution of Bhagirathi to a source of the current of Ganges.
Kedartal, at a distance of 17 km from Gangotri is a popular hiking destination. Starting at Gangotri the route involves a steep rocky climb along the narrow Kedar Ganga Gorge on the way to Bhojkharak, 8 km away. From there it is 4 km to the camping site next to Kedarkharak, and a further 5km to Kedartal. The route passes through picturesque birch forests of the Himalayas, but is through dangerous places of falling rocks, heights and segments of steep ascent.
The highlights of Kedartal Trek are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 16110 feet
Trek Durations – 7 days
Best Season - May – June & September – October
Difficulty Level – Moderate
3. Brahmatal Trek
An exceptional and exceptional winter trip, Brahmatal Trek could be the best walk of your life. A good amount of snow and a beautiful lagoon located between the snow-capped mountains are enough reasons to go on this winter trip. The trails meander through lush forests and beautiful meadows, which will surely leave you breathless. The views offered by this walk will leave you speechless with amazement and delight.
Located opposite to the famous Roopkund Trek, Brahmatal Trek is one of the best winter treks in Himalayas. It too offers jaw dropping views of Himalayan ranges and it's a paradise for the snow addicts. The entire trail of this trek is covered in snow. Some of the prominent peaks in this region includes Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, Nilkanth, Chowkhamba, Kamet, Ghoda and Hathi peaks. this trek is also perfect for the children and amateurs.
The highlights of the Brahmatal Trek are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 12500 feet
Trek Duration – 12-14 days
Best Season – December – February
Difficulty Level – Easy
4. Valley of Flowers Trek
This beautiful national park is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. It was discovered by Frank S Smythe. People from all around the globe come and visit this area of magnificent beauty. All the nature lovers and botanists can find rare beauty in this location which makes it renowned globally.
One of the easiest treks in Uttarakhand, Valley of Flowers Trek is also a UNESCO Heritage Site. This trek is so easy that it could be performed without any guidance of any trekking agencies. Valley of flowers trek offers an awe-inspiring display of wild flowers. The only point to keep in mind is to prepare for facing ample rainfall since it is a monsoon trek.
Imagine exploring the most magnificent wildflower cover you could ever think of. Get to appreciate the beauty of 300 species of wildflowers that also include 45 species of medicinal plants. And, consider yourself lucky if you get to spot the rarely seen tahr or Himalayan black bear. Near the Valley of Flowers is the sacred Hemkund lake.
There is also an option of trekking up to Hemkund Sahib, a pilgrimage site at an altitude of 14200 feet. Hemkund Sahib is a Gurudwara at an altitude 4332 m in Uttarakhand. It is the highest Gurudwara in the world. Other than these facts, this place is magical. Take a dip in the freezing water of the lake beside the gurudwara and rejuvenate your body and soul. Sit inside the Gurudwara and listen to the ardas, you will find yourself in a different space.
There is also a temple of Laxman here. It is said that he meditated here. Guru Govind singh has also meditated here and had mentioned about this pristine lake surrounded by seven mountains in one of the granths written by him. Get mesmerized with natures splendor while trekking in Valley of Flowers that is located in the Nanda Devi Biosphere.
The magic begins in the journey itself with calm lakes, quiet villages, gentle streams and dense forests on the way. This trek is best done in monsoon season thus becomes tricky and challenging but it is not dangerous. All the trek requires a good preparation both physical and mental. Similar is the case with Valley of flowers Hemkund Sahib trek. It is a 6 Days long trek and doing it under a proper guidance is recommended.
The dates for booking this trek with Moxtain are available from June end or July and is accessible till September. Being an easy grade trek, one can take it for granted but this trek requires sheer will power and a technique to cover the trails in rainy season as the mud becomes loose and the trail becomes quite slippery.
Booking this trek with Moxtain solves this situation as trained and certified guides and trek leaders accompanies you. Listening to the instructions of trek leader, sticking with the group and being well equipped with gears like Poncho, waterproof shoes and a stick which are available on rent with Moxtain are important to have a safe and sound trek experience.
The highlight are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 14200 feet
Trek Duration – 4 -5 days
Best season – Monsoon (June – October)
Difficulty Level – Very Easy
5. Rupin Pass Trek
Uninhabited by man, the Rupin Pass is 15,250 feet above sea level, which begins at Dhaula in Uttarakhand and ends at Sangla in Himachal Pradesh. The trekking route winds along the Rupin River and takes you through the icy slopes, rocks, glaciers, snow fields, wooden bridges, attractive villages, flowing rivers, expanses of grass and the evergreen Deodar forests. In addition, the view of the Kinner Kailash range is fabulous.
Illusory views of the peaks, lofty waterfalls, and exotic flower-laden pastures makes Rupin Pass Trek unforgettable. Starting from the small township of Dhaula, this trek takes up to 7 days to climb up almost 10000 feet to reach the Rupin Pass, meanwhile crossing over from Uttarakhand to Himachal. The unique feature of this trek is it offers multiple rest stops at beautiful villages that lie in the trek path.
In addition to the different natural wonders, this trekking also offers camping opportunities in the middle of the jungle. Although the level of difficulty is moderate, but depending on the intensity of the snow, the route can become a challenge.
There are two main seasons of doing Rupin pass. May-June, right after the trail opens after the winter months, when there is a lot of snow. So, if you want to experience Rupin in it’s snowy attire, this is the best time. This season ends with the advent of monsoon, and the 2nd season begins in September and ends by October.
Just after the monsoon, most of the snow on Rupin pass melts and leaves a lush-green look, which further tends to give way to a dry rocky look by October end. Rupin is a high pass, beyond 15,000 feet, and it sees snowfall pretty early. Rupin pass also calls for significant climbing up and climbing down.
Fewer people venture to do Rupin pass in November owing to possibility of snowfall and extreme cold. But, nothing is really not-doable in this age. There are blogs of people doing Rupin Pass in November and even in February.
If you have prior experiences of trekking on snow, and more importantly on thin layers of slippery ice, if you are an experienced trekker and will not freak out and keep your calm with inclement weather, if you are ready to embrace extreme cold, if you are not particularly seeking an all-white or lush-green experience, then you can consider November first week.
But a word of caution is to be very well-prepared, with experienced guides/porters, equipment, proper winter gears, since in all probability you will not find many people on the slope to help you out in case of any adversities.
The highlights are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 15250 feet
Trek Duration – 8 days
Best Season – Summer (May – June) and the Post – Monsoon (September – October)
Difficulty Level – Moderate
6. Baraadsar Lake Trek
Baraadsar lake is very close to prominent hikes such as Har Ki Dun and Rupin and Supin Valley. A prayer in Baraadsar never goes unanswered, a legend popular amongst the locals. The Baraadsar lake trek is not commercialized by the trekking communities yet but it is extremely popular with the locals since the lake is considered sacred by them. It is located between the Supin and Rupin Valleys in the Western Garhwal. It Offers excellent views in all directions while crossing different villages, forests, ridge walks, etc.
The highlights of Baraadsar Lake Trek are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 14435 feet
Trek Duration – 7 – 8 days
Best Season – winter (December – February)
Difficulty Level – Easy
7. Bali Pass Trek
One of the hardest treks in Uttarakhand, Bali Pass Trek is actually for well-versed trekkers. The challenging terrain of this trek makes it exceptionally difficult. Since the Bali Pass trek route falls inside the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, it displays a lot of exotic flora and fauna. While walking across the beautiful rivers like Siyan Gad and Tons, through Coniferous woodlands, finally reaching the magical lake of Ruinsara Tal, the trekkers are gifted with some memorable views of Kalanag, Bandarpoonch, and Swargarohini peaks.
The highlights are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 1650 feet above sea level
Trek Durations – 9 Days
Best Season – Post monsoon (September – October) and Summer (May – June)
Difficulty Level – Difficult
8. Har ki Dun Trek
Arrive at the amphitheater of the gods! Boy! Har Ki Doon trek is a bundle of joy with its beautiful valleys and incredible views that seem taken from a fairy tale. Located at an altitude of 3566 m in the western Garhwal Himalayas Ganges, Har ki Doon is a moderate hike, offering wonderful experience for hikers.
This winter trek should be on the list of enthusiasts. Climb the moraine of the Jaundhar Glacier to an altitude of 4,300 m, with the best views of the snow-capped peaks of the Swargarohini (6,252 m), the Bandarpoonch (6,361 m) and the majestic Kalanag (6,387 m).
One of the easiest treks in Uttarakhand, Har ki Dun Trek lets the explorers witness the beautiful Tons river valley which is encircled by the dense woodlands and highlands. While visiting this place before monsoon you can witness different species of birds and after the monsoon season it becomes a paradise for flora lovers. There is also enough snow during December and April for the snow lovers hence it has something for everyone.
With an immense serenity and uncontaminated natural beauty, this hike has a wide and varied variety of flora and fauna. It is also said that this was the place from where the Pandava brothers came to. The arduous trekking is a delight in the winter springs with everything covered by an ivory sheen.
Walking along the snow-covered path, one can see the high peaks of the mountains that rise on both sides of the valley. The trail also has rare tree species of Bhojpatra and Brahmakamal also present in the Jaundar glacier and the Swargarohini glacier. A little further on, you can camp near the traditional village of Osla, the highest in the valley.
Hike through a side valley in an easterly direction through a pine forest. Camp in the surroundings of Lake Ruinsara Tal. The vegetation disappears as you ascend. Camp at the foot of the Yamunotri. Continue the ascent in high mountain. Perhaps you will go through snow before arriving at the Yamunotri (5170 m).
Descend to the meadows of Damni. Return to the forest and then to the sacred place of Yamunotri, which you will visit in the company of many pilgrims and sadhus. Descent along the path used by pilgrims and naga sadhus from the beginning of April to the end of October. Camp near Hanuman Chatti.
The highlights are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 11500 feet
Trek Duration – 7 days
Best Season – spring (March – June) and Post Monsoon (September – December)
Difficulty Level – Easy
9. Auden’s Col Trek
Located at an altitude of 5,490 m, the Auden's Col is one of the high-altitude mountain passes of the Garhwal Himalayas. Trekking here is really a fascinating experience. Adore views of the Rudragaira, Jogin, Bhagirathi and Kedar Dome peaks.
One of the hardest treks in Uttarakhand, Auden's Col starts from Gangotri. While trekking towards Nala Camp, a lot of cane and pine woodlands are visible. From Nala Camp, the trekkers move to the Rudra Gaira Base Camp, a perfect place to get a glimpse of snow-laden Himalayan peaks. Auden's Col Trek takes you through the innumerable glaciers, narrow cliffs, moraines, and snow ridges, thus it is more like a survival of the fittest.
One of the most difficult trek in the Garhwal region, trekking to Auden unites two valleys, the valley and the Rudragaira Bhilangana valley. From Gangotri, the Patangani Dhar path leads to the Nala field, through birches and pine forests. Continue with a one-day walk to the base camp of Rudra Gaira, which offers beautiful views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
The next stop is at the base camp of Gangotri, from where the walk to the base camp of Auden's Col begins. The lonely road through the Mayali Pass at 5200 meters above sea level is a walk of life. The walk to the Khatling glacier is exhausting but it is worth the effort for the impressive view. The descending path begins after Masar Tal, Vasuki Tal, which ends in Kedarnath. The exciting experience makes it one of the best summer tours in Uttrakhand.
The highlights are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 18020 feet
Trek Duration – 16 days
Best Season – summer and post Monsoon
Difficulty Level – very Difficult
10. Satopanth Lake Trek
Satopanth Tal is a triangular lake with crystal clear green water. It is located at an elevation of 4600 meters above sea level. This place is one of the popular treks of Uttarakhand. it offers a majestic view of the beauty of Himalaya.
Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh, the Holy Trio are believed to have meditated near the three corners of the Satopanth Lake. The Satopanth Lake Trek is a spiritual journey as well. It is ideal for adventure and nature enthusiasts. It offers a sight to behold in the form of the reflection of the mountains on the clear water of glacial lake.
The highlights are as follows:
Maximum Altitude – 14600 feet
Trek Duration – 8 days
Best Season – June, September and October
Difficulty Level – Moderate
It is quite clear from everything discussed that Uttarakhand is a masterpiece of nature and it definitely is a paradise for trek lovers. It has something to offer every time of the year and for all the age groups.
11. Dodital Trek
The Dodital Dayara Bugyal trek is one of the most incredible trekking routes in Uttarakhand, where you can even ski in the winter season. The path goes through the wonderful Barsu and Barnala Bugyal, after which you climb the Barnala ridge where you can savor the panorama of Lake Barnala. Now, climb through the dense alpine forest, taking you to Dayara meadows.
Continue the road to Nimdhar, ending it, on the incredible Dodital Lake, surrounded by dense forests of pines, oaks and Deodar. The beautiful view of the Himalayas from one of the best trekking places in India is waiting for you. Lake Dodital is known for the birthplace of Ganesha. The route can start from Uttarkashi, Hanuman Chatti or Kalyani.
12. Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek
If you are looking to escape the human race while you face the beast of a challenge, this lonely road could do the trick. The trip to the Damdar Kandi Pass is one of the most difficult in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand and involves a long, arduous and stubborn climb.
For those who manage to do so, the uphill battle is rewarded by some of the most impressive views in the Himalayas, such as the Bandarpoonch and Swararohini peaks. You will also find a series of sanctuaries that are of profound religious importance to locals.
13. Nag Tibba Trek
A famous hill in Mussoorie, the Nag Tibba is surrounded by peaks and lush green plains. The place is popular with trekkers. The trek here is of medium difficulty and the views are excellent. There is also a very easy route option available for those with little or no trekking experience.
Walk to the humble abode of Nag Devta. Humming with a rich diversity of birds and animals, Nag Tibba Trek is a visual gift for hikers for the first time. Be a spectator of the splendid views of Chanabang and Doon Valley and the great peaks of Gangotri. Enjoy views of Kedarth Peak, Bandarpoonch Peak, Changbang Peak and Gangotri Peak. It is a circular walk that at no point overlaps the road.
Therefore, enjoy a lot of delectable nature scenes. Another great thing about this trip is its exquisite camping. There are four routes to the Nag Tibba peak, the Pantwari village street is the most popular. The other routes are from the village of Devalsari, from the village of Antar and from Mangalori. Hikers should be very careful and cover the route during the day in order to avoid encountering bears.
14. Kalindi Khal Trek
With this tour you will visit some of the most famous religious sites and offers a varied variety of mammals to be admired. Kalindi Khal Pass is known for being one of the most famous hikes in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas, but also one of the the most difficult. It is ideal for experienced hikers in excellent physical shape.
The expedition to high altitude begins in Gangotri and ends in Badrinath, where it is reached through Kalindikhal. Boulders, rocky outcrops, glaciers and snow make the trek challenging. During the trek you can stop at Tapovan (4250 m), Nandanvan (4500 m), Vasuki Tal (5300 m), Kalindi (5590 m), Kalindikhal (5948 m), Arwa Tal (3980 m) and Gashtoli (3600 m).
The upper part of this route offers the opportunity to visit half of the Garhwal region, from the Bhagirathi river valley to the Alaknanda river valley. You can also see snowy peaks such as Shivling, Satopanth, Vasuki, Chandra Parvat and Bhagirathi.
15. Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Experience striking sights of Mount Shivling and Bhagirathi group of mountains. In the Central Himalaya, this is one of the largest glaciers and also an awesome trek to view amazing peaks. The goal of this trek will be to ascend to this glacier to reach Tapovan. There is another new trek route leading to the Mukta Top.
The trail crosses the Gangotri before reaching Tapovan and its beautiful fields, furrowed with currents and scattered flowers. From here panoramic view on Shivling (6540m), Meru (6660m) and the massifs of Bhagirathi (6500m) is impressive. Chirbasa is a beautiful place to camp, covered with dense forests.
16. Kuari Pass Trek
Lord Curzon's greatest discovery, Kuari Pass in Uttarakhand is one of the best places to walk in December. The walk starts from Joshimath, which is a center developed for hikers and pilgrims. See the breathtaking views of the towering peaks of the Himalayas and the confluences of the buzzing of the rivers.
Walk through the luxurious meadows of the Himalayas called Bugyals and the green forests of Oak and Deodar where you can even find the marks of a leopard or the Black Bear Himalayas.
Trek from Tali to Khulara (3,395m) through the Kuari pass, lasting five to six hours. The road climbs a ridge above Tali. From these hills the path leads through a large meadow with spectacular views of the Himalayas. Looking north, the view extends from the Trishul Gorges in the east to the Kedarnath peaks in the west.
North of Joshimath, the chain of Chaukhamba peaks, Nilkanth (6,596 m) and Narayan Parbat (5,965 m), Mana (7,272 m), Kamet (7,756 m) and Abi Gamin (7,355 m) extend to the Tibetan border. First the main chain of the Himalayas in the vicinity of the Bhyundar Valley and Kund Hem includes Nilgiri Parbat (6,474 m), Rataban (6,166 m), Ghori Parbat (6,708 m) and Hathi Parbat (6,727 m).
Dunagairi (7,066 m) dominates the summits to the north of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. March to the Kuari pass, around 4,000 m, an emblematic point between steep valleys and surrounded by sacred snow-capped peaks. Camp in Khulara. The most enthusiastic have the option of walking three hours to the Pangarchulla Peak, to catch a glimpse of the sunrise on the snowy peaks.
17. Nanda Devi Trek
Hugh Ruttledge, the famous English mountaineer, could not conquer this. After his second attempt, he became carefree and said that even getting an entry to the Nanda Devi National Park is a more difficult task than reaching the North Pole. Now, if you are a game for this appointment with the Himalayas, this is for you.
The trek starts from the village of Lata near Joshimath, from where you should take the ridge towards the camp at Lata Kharak. From here, you will see the peaks of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Dronagiri, Hathi Parbat, Kagbhusandi Tal, lake full of mystery that can leave you stunned and Gauri Parbat. If you go to Semi Kharak the next day, do not forget to capture the throat of the Rishi Ganga River with your camera.
Make a tent here for a quiet and windy afternoon. The next day, go early to Jhandi Dhar, one of the steepest stretches. A really difficult stretch of 500 meters. Part of the town of Tolma, just to grant you a beautiful and unforgettable view of Nanda Devi. You need about 3 days for this walk.
18. Kafni Glacier Trek
Located south of Nanda Kot hill on the eastern side of the Pindar canyon, Kafni glacier is blessed with a pleasant and peaceful environment that has become popular with travelers. The places also have a spectacular flora and exotic fauna. The glacier road covers the same trek to Dwali, as the trekking to the Pindari glacier.
The Kafni Glacier is 12 km from Dwali via Byali Udiyar. The road is wide and covered by rhododendron trees in bloom. The main peaks of the Himalayas visible from here are Nandabhnar (6236 m) and Nandakot (6860 m). After Dwali, it is only possible to camp.
19. Pindari Glacier Trek
Between Nanda Devi Peak and Nanda Kot Peak, the Pindari Glacier is one of the most popular attractions in Uttarakhand, located in the upper Himalayas of Kumaon. Known as the soul of Kumaon by the locals, it has magnificent glaciers, gushing rivers, colorful flowers, waterfalls, dense forests and immense natural beauty.
An unmissable site for passionate photographers, nature lovers and adventurers, this glacier tour takes you through unknown towns and Dev Bhoomi sites known for their mythological connections. Admire the solid wooden decks where you can treat your eyes to the green surroundings while enjoying your summer vacation in Uttarakhand.
Near is the famous Kafni glacier trek route. This glacier is popular with beginners and expert hikers. Do not forget to interact with the friendly locals.
20. Panchachuli Base Camp Trek
Located in the snow-capped mountains, the Panchachuli base camp begins in the Darma Valley in the Pithoragarh district. With stunning natural views, the path to the Panchchuli glacier in the Kumaon Himalayas is adorned with snow-capped peaks, diverse flora and fauna, flowing rivers, alpine meadows and attractive landscapes.
Located along the Dhauliganga River, the trekking route, located in the east of the Kumaon Himalayas, is like a link between the Darma Valley and the Gori Ganga Valley. Dar is the last road that is about 42 km from Dharchula. The walk to the glacier is pleasant. The walk takes you through tribal villages such as Sela, Bongling, Duktu, Nagling, Baaling and Duktu which are next to the Dhauliganga River and dense forests of Himalayan cedar, Bhojpatra and conifers.
The 5 snow-capped mountains of Panchachuli offer an impressive spectacle and embellish Him Khand, the Yuli River surrounded by the lush forests of Deodaar and the coniferous trees. The scenic beauty during the entire trip is unparalleled.
21. Roopkund Trek
Roopkund is a beautiful and attractive tourist destination at the base of two peaks of the Himalayas which are Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. Roopkund Lake is also known as the Mystery Lake or Skeleton Lake and is a glacial lake located in the Chamoli district in Garhwal. The radiocarbon dating suggests that the skeletons buried there have been almost 800 years in that place, when a large group of people died in a hail.
With a depth of only two meters, human remains can be seen at the bottom of the lake when the snow melts. This mystery has attracted so much attention that the National Geographic decided to present it in a documentary.
This place is best during the summers as Roopkund remains covered in snow throughout the year. One can also enjoy the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra here. Although any time of year is good to be chosen to try Roopkund trek but if you like snow and challenging walks then May and June are perfect and if you want to see the mysterious skeletons then you can opt for September or October.
The lake is located on the route to the pilgrimage site of Nanda Devi Temple through Karnaprayag, one of the 5 confluences of the Alaknanda River. Travel to Srinagar and visit Vishnuprayag, Nandaprayag and Rudraprayag. Trekking to Lake Roopkund takes about seven and nine days where hikers cross religious sites, lush forests, waterfall streams, clean snow and summits of Trisul.
If you're hiking in India, the Roopkund trek is a must with its deep virgin forests, bubbling streams, breathtaking campsites, miles of rolling meadows, snow and ice, and the taste of a great adventure climbing from 8,000 feet to 16,000 feet. This place is close to the famous hill stations like Nainital and Kathgodam. This hike begins in Lohajung, following one ascent after the other until Ran ki Dhar, then to Bhagwa Basa and finally to Roopkund.
The trek is known for having challenging terrain with oak-filled forests near Wan village and crossing the alpine meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal meadows and beautiful snow-covered peaks. When you reach this point of the hike, it takes you to the another level, sit there and enjoy the views. From these gorgeous meandering meadows one can easily witness the astonishing views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Gunti.
Pathar Nachuni is located at the foot of a mountain, at the top of which lies the Kalu Vinayak temple. To get to Patar Nachuni from Bedni Bugyal, you will have to travel a distance of 4 to 5 kilometers in about 4 hours. It's a relatively simple walk.
After the initial climb, there is a gradual climb followed by a gentle descent all the way to Pathar Nachuni, following the path until you reach Bhagwabasa, passing by the Kalu Vinayak temple which is at an altitude of 14,550 feet. It is a vertical zigzag ascent that takes 3 hours to reach the Kalu Vinayak temple, followed by a 2-hour descent to the Bhagwabhasa region.
Roopkund is only 3 kilometers from the Bhagwabasa camp and climbing it takes about 3 hours. Even in the summer, this entire stretch is covered in snow. Make a short stop at Ghairoli Patal, which is also a camping area. Descend to the bottom of the valley to find the Neel Ganga river. It may be a good idea to cool off for a while in the river waters after an arduous downhill hike. From the river, there is only one uphill walk until you reach the village of Wan.
22. Panch Kedar Trek
Covering five Shiva shrines in the enchanting Kedar Valley, the Panch Kedar trek offers an unforgettable experience, away from the chaos of the city. Ideal for planning a vacation in Uttarakhand, the trekking attracts both beginners and experienced trekking enthusiasts. The path is a wonderful mixture of serenity and beautiful landscape charm.
The trip begins in Kalpeshwar, famous for its rock temple where the hair of Lord Shiva has appeared. Continue to Rudranath, known to be the place where Lord Shiva appeared. The Tungnath village, the central point of the trek, has the Tungnath temple, the highest temple of Shiva in the world. Then there is Madhya Maheshwar.
Madhyamaheshwar or Madmaheshwar is the fourth temple to be visited on the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit, comprising five temples of Shiva in the Garhwal region. The other temples on the circuit are Kedarnath, Tungnath and Rudranath. The journey ends at Kedarnath. From Gaurikund, it is necessary to trek 1500 meters of unevenness and 14 km on foot until finally arriving at Kedarnath.
23. Chandrashila Trek
Chandrashila is the summit of the Tungnath. It literally means moon rock. It is located at an altitude of about 4,000 meters above sea level. This peak offers a spectacular view of the Himalayas, especially Nanda Devi, Trisul, Kedarkantha, Bandarpunch and Chaukhamba peaks. There are several legends associated with this place.
The trip to Chandrashila through Chopta and Tungnath is a delightful experience thanks to the paths surrounded by forests, the beautiful flowers that open in full season, the lake Deoria Tal, the soft snow and the different bird species that fly over the region. Considered one of the easy treks in the Himalayas, this route can be visited throughout the year.
Tungnath mountain range is always the starting point of the trip to the top of the Chandrashila, and in addition, it has the highest Shiva Temple in the world, located at 3,680 meters high. It is believed that Tungnath is more than 1,000 years old. Panwali Kantha Trek in Uttarakhand is a remote path that is physically demanding due to its steep uphill climb.