The Serene Beauty Of Joshimath: Hub for Adventure Enthusiasts.
Joshimath is a small town in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand which holds a huge significance not only for the Hindu pilgrims but also is a place that throws open doors to many treks in this part of the country. Located just over 13km from the confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Dhauliganga at Vishnuprayag, the town is the winter seat of Lord Badri. The idol from Badrinath, one of the Char Dhams, is hosted at the Narsinh temple in Joshimath. The cantonment here is a permanent station of Garhwal Scouts and an important military establishment closest to the Indo-Tibet border. It is a hub for adventure activities including mountaineering, skiing, mountain biking, and trekking.
How to reach Joshimath:
Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport is 293 km away and is the nearest airstrip. The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, which is 254km away. Local transport Union buses and State Transport buses ply regularly from Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun and Delhi.
Accommodation:
A variety of hotels, lodges, and homestays are available in Joshimath. It would actually be cheaper to stay here than in the ski town of Auli in winter. A cable car connects these two destinations.
Treks beginning from Joshimath:
Joshimath is the base for a whole host of treks. This blog is limited to trekking and I would list them down in order of difficulty.
Beginner:
Kuari Pass and Pangarchula Peak
It is an all-year-round trek that promises a panoramic view of the mountains on the pass crossing day with the additional challenge of a summit climb. Gorson Bugyal en route would make you dance to the sound of music.
Valley of Flowers
Valley of Flowers is the pièce de résistance of all the treks in this region. A well-laid trail leads you to the national park and the highest gurudwara in the world.
Chenap Valley
A close cousin of Valley of Flowers and only 28km from Joshimath, this trek offers splendid views of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Dronagiri. An overnight stay in the valley is an added bonus.
Moderate:
Roopkund
A high-altitude trek to a glacial lake shrouded in mystery has hundreds of human skeletal remains in the vicinity. It is now unfortunately banned due to the harm caused in the past.
Satopanth Tal
Magnificent views of Neelkanth and Balakun and this emerald-green lake are bound to mesmerize you. The trek begins with an early morning visit to Badrinath via the last village of India, Mana.
Kagbhusandi Tal
It is an offbeat trek that provides prominent views of Hathi Parbat. The trail is beautifully laden with a variety of wildflowers.
Dharansi Pass
In my opinion, it is a well-rounded trek. The trail leads you to Lata Kharak, a beautiful meadow followed by a pass crossing at 4250m, whilst dishing out enchanting views of Nanda Devi and its surrounding peaks, Trishul, Dunagiri, and Bethartholi.
Neelkanth Basecamp
It is a moderate to difficult trek which can be completed in 3-4 days. It is also deemed sacred by the virtue of the myth which states the mountain is Lord Shiva himself standing between Badrinath and Kedarnath. The first pitstop on the trek takes you to Charan Paduka, which are considered the footprints of Lords Vishnu.
Difficult:
Bagini Glacier
Situated inside the Nanda Devi National Park, it originates from the base of Trishuli and Changabang peaks. The trek leads you up to Changabang base camp.
Nanda Devi Sanctuary
Walk in the footsteps of Bill Tilman and Eric Shipton on the trail traversing through meadows and valleys, with grand views of Nanda Devi East and West. An arduous climb of more than 7000ft within 5 days is what makes this trek demanding.
Kunth Khal
A trying offshoot trek from the Valley of Flowers, it opened again recently to avid trekkers in 2016. It can very well be called a trek to the Bramha Kamal valley with the divine flowers found here aplenty.
Challenging:
Bhyunder Khal and Gupta Khal
These twin passes test your mountaineering skills. The trek offers an opportunity to negotiate Rataban and Tipra glaciers while being mesmerized by views of Kamet, Mana peaks, Neelkanth, Hathi Parbat, and Nilgiri.
Expedition:
These two treks end in Joshimath.
Kalindi Khal
Possibly the most demanding trek of India it climbs to a col at 6000m which connects the two sacred Dhams of Badrinath and Gangotri. It offers majestic views of Shivling, Meru, Kedar Dome, Bhagirathi Massif, Nilkantha, Chandra Parvat, Avalanche Peak, Kamet, Mana, and Abi Gamin.
Saraswati Col
At 5941m, it lies about 2.2 km NE of Arwa Col and is at the east end of the southeast branch of the Mana glacier. Mountaineering experience is a must here.
Related Blogs
August 30, 2024
Why Himalaya Shelter is one of the Best Trekking Companies in India- Trekker's Perspective
Read more
December 11, 2024
Valley of Flowers Trek: Explore Fulo Ki Ghati And Scenic Valley Trekking
Read more
December 4, 2024
Chopta Uttarakhand Trek Guide: Everything You Need to Know for Your Adventure
Read more
September 10, 2024
Things Beginners Should Know to Avoid Hiking Mistakes on a Himalayan Trek
Read more
August 16, 2024
Day 6 of Bali Pass: A Chilling Ascent, Summit Triumph, and a Snowy Descent
Read more
August 16, 2024
My first ever Himalayan trek: Day 0 of the Bali Pass, arriving in Dehradun
Read more
July 22, 2024
The Top 5, 8000-meter Peaks: This is every climber’s dream if ever one is dreamed, and I hope it is still dreamable.
Read more
July 22, 2024
The Tale of Legendary Mountaineers: An insight into the lives of Iconic Climbers Edmund Hillary, Tenzing Norgay, Reinhold Messener, Rob Hall, Scott Fischer, and Jon Krakauer.
Read more
July 19, 2024
Treks for Family and Kids: Guide to family-friendly Treks adventurous activities
Read more
May 10, 2024
Butter Festival Bliss, Anduri Utsav: Trekking Through Tradition On Dayara Bugyal
Read more
March 28, 2024
Things to do near/at Sankri
A complete guide about the beautiful Himalayan village named Sankri. This article contains all the details that you need to know about Sankri. The best treks from Sankri, The best accommodation in...
Read more
March 20, 2024
Customize your Trek with Himalaya Shelter
A comprehensive guide for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts curious about the structure of a customized trekking program. This article outlines all the facilities provided within our customized trekking programs.
Read more
March 14, 2024
Top 30 Best Places to Visit and best treks to do in Mussoorie:
A complete guide about the best places to visit near Mussoorie, the famous picnic destinations in Mussoorie, best trekking places near Mussoorie
Read more
March 11, 2024
Best Treks to do & Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
A complete guide about the best places to visit near Dehradun, the famous picnic destinations in Dehradun, best trekking places near Dehradun
Read more
February 2, 2024
National Parks of Uttarakhand-A Journey through Uttrakhand's Spectacular National Parks
A complete guide to the most popular and famous National parks of Uttrakhand, India along with the trekking destinations associated with them.
Read more
September 28, 2023
8 Essential Safety Tips for Trekking in the Himalayan Mountains for a Safe Journey
Trekking in the Himalayas offers a unique experience, combining imposing peaks, serene valleys, and diverse cultures. Preparation and safety are crucial.
Read more
September 25, 2023
14 Best Destinations for Spiritual Trekking in India Himalayas
Explore the divine heights of the Indian Himalayas with our guide to the 14 Best Destinations for Spiritual Trekking.
Read more
September 22, 2023
Solo Trekking vs Group Trekking in the Himalayas: Which is Best?
Explore the pros and cons of solo and group trekking in the majestic Himalayas to find out which suits your trekking style best.
Read more
September 22, 2023
13 Best Himalayan Treks To Do in October, November, and December in India
Discover stunning treks to do in Himalaya in October, November, and December in India.
Read more
September 18, 2023
Himalayan Trekking Permits: A Complete Guide for Adventurers
Explore our comprehensive guide to Himalayan Trekking Permits, designed for adventurers like you.
Read more
September 18, 2023
Top 15 Trekking Places in Kashmir: From Lakes to Peaks
Discover the top trekking places in Kashmir featuring stunning lakes and towering peaks.
Read more
August 23, 2023
Hiking Essentials for Beginners in the Himalayas: Need to Know
Prepare well for beginner Himalayan treks: essentials, best routes, high altitudes, fees, and cultural immersion for a secure adventure.
Read more
August 18, 2023
Understanding Acute Mountain Sickness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Discover the causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and effective treatments for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Read more
August 16, 2023
10 Stunning Treks Near Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Explore Himachal's stunning landscapes with thrilling Manali treks. Experience extraordinary walks amidst magnificent mountains and serene roads.
Read more
August 14, 2023
9 Best Short Treks in Uttarakhand for 1, 2, or 3 Days for a Weekend Escape
Explore Uttarakhand's stunning weekend getaways with short treks, immersing yourself in nature's beauty and adventure on these breathtaking trails.
Read more
August 9, 2023
10 Toughest and Most Difficult Treks in India to Push Your Boundaries
Discover the toughest and most difficult treks in India and test your endurance in the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas.
Read more
August 2, 2023
Essential Camp Hygiene for Health and Safety
Maintaining camp hygiene and sanitation safeguards health, environment, and water sources, ensuring an enjoyable, compliant, and safe camping experience.
Read more
July 25, 2023
11 Best Places to Visit in Sonamarg, Things to Do & Attractions
Sonamarg, in India, captivates with its stunning landscapes. Nestled in Kashmir, it's a serene haven for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Read more
July 24, 2023
Nanda Devi National Park, Uttarakhand - How To Reach, Best Time to Visit
Nanda Devi National Park, in Uttarakhand, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes.
Read more
July 19, 2023
15 Best Himalayan Treks for Beginners in India
Discover beginner-friendly treks in India's Himalayas. Experience breathtaking mountain beauty, push limits, and connect with nature in stunning landscapes.
Read more
July 18, 2023
Top 15 Highest Mountain Peaks of Uttarakhand
The state of Uttarakhand boasts of two of the top three mountains in India. Read the blog to find out about the famous peaks of Uttarakhand...
Read more
September 10, 2021
Why Is Hydration Important during Himalayan Treks?
Garhwal Himalaya offers thrilling treks. Hydration is crucial, and it's essential to drink water regularly, even in colder temperatures.
Read more
February 28, 2023
Why is Har Ki Dun Valley a Popular Trekking Destination in Uttarakhand?
Har Ki Dun: Popular Trek in Uttarakhand with Breathtaking Views of Himalayan Peaks, Meadows, and Rivers.
Read more
February 1, 2024
Why Bali Pass Should Be Your Next Trek?
Why Bali Pass Trek should be your very next trek? The complete guide. This artiucle has answer of almost all your questions.
Read more