Top 5 Treks in Uttarakhand

What should you expect from this article?
This is a brief guide containing all the necessary information regarding top 5 treks in Uttarakhand. Going through this article would help clarify any doubts regarding the treks. This article is an informative article which covers aspects such as

• Overview
• Highlights
• Best time to visit
• Itinerary
• Difficult level
• Preparation tips
• FAQ’s

Note: this is an informative article and aspects such as preparation tips are going to be almost similar for each trek.

1. Kedarkantha Trek: A summit to heaven

Overview:

Kedarkantha peak, often mistaken for kedarnath is a popular trek amoung both the seasoned trekkers and beginner’s alike boasts its summit at a whopping 16,500ft.
This is a unique trek as providing the trekkers with frequent clearings among the tree line .
One could witness the true marvel of Garhwal Himalayan ranges which no other trek would provide. One would feel the essence of mountaineering on this peak as we traverse through thick patches of forests, with constant ascent on each day. The summit push is particularly magnificent as you push to the summit before the crack of dawn traversing through narrow ridges showing us how terrifying nature can be.

Highlights:

The aspects which make Kedarkantha unique:
We walk along the tree line with ocassional clearings, immersing the trekkers with breathtaking gharwal Himalayan ranges panaromic sights.

Resting admist Govind national park, Kedarkantha trek enables the trekkers to embrace both the essence of mountains and beautiful forests in one go.

Kedarkantha peak is home to one of the most amazing campsite areas amoung all the treks. Embedded with multiple routes, Kedarkantha campsites offer perfect spot for stargazing.

Best time to visit Kedarkantha peak :

Kedarkantha trek is one of the few treks in the Garhwal Himalayan ranges which is open to treks throughout the year. except for two months of July and august you can trek for the most part of the year. Kedarkantha trek is accessible for 10 months of the year except for peak monsoon seasons mentioned above

The 10 months cover four different seasons –

• Winter – December to February
• Spring – March and April
• Summer – May and June
• Autumn – Mid September to November

Trekkers experience different trekking ambiance every season in terms of terrain, difficulty and weather.

Kedarkantha trek itinerary:

• Day 1 : Dehradun to Sankri (1,920 m): 187 km drive in 8 hours
• Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (2,774 m): 4 km trek in 3 to 4 hours
• Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (3,429 m): 4 km in 3 hours
• Day 4: Kedarkantha base camp to Kedarkantha Summit (3,810 m) and back to Hargaon (2,713 m): 8 km in 5-6 hours
• Day 5: Hargaon to Sankri: 4 km trek in 2 to 3 hours
• Day 6: Sankri to Dehradun: 187 km drive in 7 to 8 hours

Difficult level:

Kedarkantha peak is a moderately difficult trek. it has gradual ascent with occasional flatline. Also, each day, you trek for a maximum of 4 hours (except on the summit day which in general tends to be longer).

Preparation Tips:

Running is a way to prepare for a hike. It targets the muscles you’ll be using during your trek like your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It gradually boosts your endurance over time. Best of all it’s an exercise that doesn’t call for any gear or gadgets. Doing this for 3 weeks prior to trek would enable us to have a perfect trekking experience

FAQ’s

How difficult is the Kedarkantha Trek?

• Kedarkantha is rated as a Moderate Level Trek.

What is Kedarkantha Trek price?

• Kedarkantha Trek charges vary from around INR 7,000/- to 12,000/- Per Person.

Why is Kedarkantha famous?

• Kedarkantha is a really famous for a winter trek in India that people from all over the world love to do. It’s located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand in the Himalayas and it’s known for its beautiful natural scenery and its cultural importance

2. Brahmatal Trek: A Panoramic Ecstasy

Overview

The ‘Brahmatal trek’ starting from Lohajung is 28 kms long trek sitting in the Chamoli district of the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek gets you through the coniferous forests accompanied with Cedars, Oaks, Firs and after a 3. 7 miles of trek, you reach Gujreni campsite. This site is a small and calm glade with oaks and rhododendrons that expand along the mountain views.

Still, it is the vistas of the Himalaya that went a long way to set up the Brahmatal trek apart. You will see captivating waterfalls and hear the sound of the forest around you and that makes magical.

Highlights:

1) Spectacular Views: The trek is even more captivating subsequent to that and comes with the vantage point of the towering Mt. Trishul and Mt Kamet.

2) Romantic Woodland Trails: It is predictable that Brahmatal is famous for its romantic trails with oak trees and rich variety of birds. Spring is epitomized by red and pink flowers of rhododendron along the paths of the park while winter draws white snow cover over the park.

3) Suitable for All Levels: Regarding the trekking, the hike is suitable for beginners and professional trekkers as well because it is lower than the previous day and it remains mostly in the forest zone that decreases the chances of AMS.

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal time to perform the Brahmatal Trek is : March or April.

Itinerary:

• Day 1- Drive from Dehradun to Lohajung Distance: 393 km Altitude Gain: 1466 ft to 7,600 ft
• Day 2- Trek from Lohajung to Gujreni Distance: 4.5 km Altitude: 7,600 ft to 9,200 ft
• Day 3- Gujreni to Tilandi Distance: 3 km Altitude: 9,200 ft to 10,495 ft
• Day 4- Tilandi to Brahmatal via Brahmatal top Distance: 5.5 km Altitude: 10,495 ft to 10,190 ft via 12,250 ft
• Day 5- Brahmatal to Lohajung Distance: 8.5 km Altitude: 10,190 ft to 7,600 ft
• Day 6- Drive from Lohajung to Dehradun Distance: 393 km Altitude Gain: 1466 ft to 7,600 ft

Difficulty Level:

The Brahmatal trek is of a middle level of difficulty but the slopes are gradual for most of the trek and passing through forests. It is relatively easy for first time and experienced trekkers.

Preparation Tips

Flexible jogging is a good exercise since it exercises the muscles that are involved such as calf, glutes, and hamstrings and gradually builds stamina to withstand the trek’s distance. Ideally the trekkers should be fit, because one has to run for at least three weeks before the trek.

FAQs

1)How strenuous is the Brahmatal Trek?

The Brahmatal trek is categorized into moderate level, and hence the caters for those new in trekking as well as those having experience.

2)What makes the Brahmatal Trek so popular?

The trek is famous for the Himalaya sightseeing, lovers trail, and the flowers especially the rhododendrons in the Marsh Alyssum and various other flowers in the spring and snow covers in the winter.

3. Valley of Flowers Trek: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Overview:

Valley of flowers is in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 11,811 ft, which is a UNESCO world heritage site mainly famous for the bio-diversity of flowers and historical importance. This monsoon trek brings healing to the eyes and an opportunity to distinguish over 600 types of flowers, some of which are mythical.

Highlights:

1. Floral Diversity: It has flowers like Brahma Kamal and Blue Poppy which are mythological flowers found in jungles.
2. Cultural Treasures: Darshan highway of the Hemkund Sahib gurudwara and Laxman Lokpal Temple at 15,225 feet height.

Best Time to Visit:

It is terrific to visit the Valley of Flowers during July to September because during these monsoons, there is growth and blooms in the valley besides cool temperatures during the day.

Itinerary:

• Day 1Dehradun to Auli/Joshimath
• Day 2Drive from Auli to Govindghat & Trek to Ghangaria
• Day 3Ghangaria to Valley of Flowers and back to Ghangaria
• Day 4Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and back to Ghangaria
• Day 5Ghangaria to Govindghat trek, drive to Badrinath & return to Karanprayag
• Day 6Karanprayag to Dehradun

Difficulty Level:

Recognized as moderate for novices and features a gradual climb up to 4500 meters at Hemkund Sahib.

Preparation Tips:

• Exercise and adapt to the physical environment before starting a game.
• Take along necessary trekking items such as rain, and follow the laws of the country where the trek is being held.

FAQs:

1. Trek Difficulty: Endurance; moderate, easy for most fitness levels.
2. Cost: The trek packages start from Rs. 12,000/- to Rs. 20,000/- based on the package offered and itineraries to be followed.

4. Kedar Tal Trek: a hidden gem amidst Gangotri ranges

Overview:

Embedded at an elevation of 15,500 ft among the Gangotri Range in Uttarakhand, Kedartal is a crystal-clear glacial lake that is truly picturesque. It has got such a special characteristic that the immense peaks of Thalaysagar, Bhrigupanth, and Jogin, on the other hand, are just part of the natural beauty of the mountain making them a must-see for those who want to become nature-seekers and be amazed by the landscapes.

Highlights:

1. Scenic Beauty: The lake has been rightly-named “Thalaysagar” after it reflects the shining peak of the mountain that is well hidden among the harsh outlines of the Himalayan mountains.
2. Challenging Terrain: This trek is popular for its rough trails, steep climbs, and sections like the spider wall, which require physical fitness and mental preparation.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to go on the Kedartal trek is from mid-May to June, with snow still lying about to make it more adventurous; and from mid-September to late October, providing snow-free tracks and mild day-time temperatures.

Itinerary:

• Day 1Drive from Dehradun to Gangnani
• Day 2Drive from Gangnani to Gangotri, Trek to Bhoj Kharak
• Day 3Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak
• Day 4Kedar Kharak to Kedartal
• Day 5Rest day at Kedartal Lake
• Day 6Kedartal to Gangotri
• Day 7Drive from Gangotri to Dehradun

Difficulty Level:

It is called difficult and is suited for trained trekkers as it is characterized by demanding terrain and very high altitude.

Preparation Tips:

Work out and get to use to the conditions in the area properly.

Be prepared to have with you the necessary trekking equipment to cope with sudden weather changes and in case of technical safety accidents.

FAQs:

1.) Is it necessary to have good trekking skills by myself or are there other possibilities? They are required for the more technical sections, like the spider wall and the rockfall areas.

2.) How Many Safety Measures Are Implemented on the Tour: Certified trek guides will regularly check for AMS symptoms and give longer acclimatization days to ensure safety.

Get ready for the unique “Kedar Tal trek” through the naturally beautiful Gangotri Range that will not only bring a sense of peace but also a sense of pure adventure. Peep into the quietness of the Himalayas and record the thrill of mountain hiking above 3000 meters to have an unforgettable experience.

5. Kuari Pass Trek: A history and beauty trip

Overview:

Kuari Pass also called the Curzon Trail is another famous trek which gives the view of the great Indian peaks like Nanda Devi, Dronagiri and Kamet. Located at an altitude of 12,516 ft it caters for even the concept trekkers let alone the veteran ones. The trail offers a strong combination of the varying terrains of forests, meadows, and impressive mountain vistas that is very satisfying.

Highlights:

1. Breathtaking Panoramic Views: It also gives excellent view of the Eastern Himalayan range of mountains including the great Nanda Devi.
2. Rich Biodiversity: Nanda Devi National Park has rich bio- diversity , and as you hike through the park ,the following creatures will definitely catch your eyes.
3. Historical Significance: It has a historical significance since it was used to being by Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India while on the trail.
4. Campsites: The camping sites in this hike include Chitrakantha and Tali Top among others, the areas are great for camping and offer a brilliant view of the sky . Best Time to Visit Kuari Pass:

Best Time to Visit Kuari Pass Trek

The Kuari Pass trek is possible throughout the year except for the rainy season which is between July and August. Each season offers a different trekking ambiance:Each season offers a different trekking ambiance:

• Winter (December to February): Clinging snow and captivating sceneries of the winter season.
• Spring (March and April): Beautiful flowers of rhododendrons and snapshots of the surrounding view.
• Summer (May and June): Sunny & beautiful and lots of green around.
• Autumn (September to November): To sum up we had a nice clear day with fresh air great for shooting.

Kuari Pass Trek Itinerary:

• Day 1Drive from Dehradun to Joshimath
• Day 2Drive from Joshimath to Dhak and Trek to Guling
• Day 3Trek from Guling to Khullara
• Day 4Trek from Khullara to Kuari pass and back to Taali
• Day 5Trek from Taali to Auli trek via Gorson Bugyal; Drive to Joshimath
• Day 6Drive from Joshimath to Dehradun

Difficulty Level:

As it will be seen Kuari Pass trek is a fairly easy one where one has to do both gentle to steep climbs. It is quite appropriate for novices but one has to be in moderately good physical condition.

Preparation Tips:

Simple forms of exercises like running, cycling, and strength training exercises will be of immense help in preparing for this trek. Ideally, you should begin training for the trek at least one month beforehand.

FAQs

1. What about the challenge level of the Kuari Pass Trek?

Kuari Pass is categorized as Moderate and hence is recommended for those who are physically fairly fit and are new to the trekking world.

2. How much does it cost to go Kuari Pass Trek?
   The price usually varies from INR 8,000 to INR 10,000 depending on the meal, accommodation, and permits of the parc.