Dhumdhar Kandi and Bali Pass Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Difficult
TREK DURATION
12 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
18370 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
75 Km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
May | June | September | October
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun
Dhumdhar Kandi and Bali Pass Trek Overview
First recognized by James Baillie in 1815 as a very lofty pass which is to the north of Banderpunch and along which there is a very alarming road leading to remote parts of upper Tons Valley. The Dhumdhar Kandi pass managed to keep its secrets till 1987 when a team from West Bengal crossed it successfully. The pass connects Bhagirathi and Tons Valleys. In ancient times, it is believed that local villagers, traders and even invaders used this pass as a shortcut to get into the remote Tons Valley. It is one of the unique treks where the glaciers on either side of the pass feed two different big rivers, the Bhagirathi and the Yamuna.
The Indian Himalayas are home to some of the most exciting high altitude treks in the India. Among them, two routes stand out for their unmatched grandeur and challenge the Dhumdhar Kandi Pass trek and Bali pass trek.
Both are located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand and are known for their challenging terrain, stunning scenery and rare crossover trails that connect remote Himalayan valleys.
Key Differences Between the Two Treks
| Feature | Dhumdhar Kandi Pass | Bali Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | More technical & remote | Technically easier but challenging |
| Altitude | 18,000 Feet | 16,240 Feet |
| Region | Gangotri & Yamunotri Valleys | Har Ki Dun to Yamunotri |
| Experience Level | Expert trekkers only | Experienced trekkers recommended |
| Highlights | Glaciers & rare cross-valley trail | Alpine meadows & cultural villages |
| Best Season | May to June and September to October | May to June and September to October |
Best Time to Visit Dhumdhar Kandi and Bali Pass Trek
Both treks are best done during pre-monsoon (May -June) and post-monsoon (Sept - Oct) seasons when the weather is relatively stable, and the passes are open.
- In summer, trekkers witness snowfields and clear views.
- In autumn, the trail glows with golden meadows and crisp skies.
Preparation & Fitness
- As both treks are demanding, you should build up your endurance and strength through regular cardio, leg training and altitude training.
- Bring important equipment at high altitude - trekking shoes, gaiters, crampons, warm layers and snow gloves.
- Himalaya Shelters offers professional guides, acclimatization programs and safety assistance on these treks.
Day 1: Drive Dehradun to Gangnani (8-9 h)
We leave Dehradun early in the morning in the vehicles waiting for us at the railway station. It is a fairly long drive in the mountains. Uttarkashi is the last town where some shopping can be done. We head to our guest house in Gangnani. Overnight in Hotel.
Day 2: Drive Gangnani to Jhala (1 h) and trek to Dorangatto (3050m) 4-5 h
We start early in the morning from our guest house and drive till the road-head Jhala(2100m). We start walking by the stream for half an hour up-to the confluence of Sian Gad. From there it’s a steep hike for about three hours through the lush green valley with views of Mt. Gangotri, Mt. Joanli in the background. We camp for the day just above the river bed. Overnight in Camp.
Day 3: Trek Dorangatto to Kiarkoti (3525m) - 4-5 h
The day starts with a steep climb for about 45mins after which it becomes gradual. It is a beautiful day as we hike through green forests, meadows and boulder fields towards the end with snowcapped peaks peeping in the horizon. Kiarkoti is a huge meadow and one of the finest campgrounds on the trek. Overnight in Camp.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day
We rest through the day and go on a small acclimatization hike. Overnight in Camp.
Day 5: Trek Kiarkoti to Wodar (4051m) - 3 - 4 h
The day’s hike takes your through boulders and patches of snow gullies. The terrain has a few steep sections in between but mostly a gradual hike. Overnight in Camp.
Day 6: Trek Wodar to Sirkey Thathar (4600m) - 5 h
We hit the glacier after an hour of walking through boulder fields. It is a long day with considerable but gradual height gain through the glacier. You might start feeling the effects of altitude this day. Overnight in Camp.
Day 7: Cross DhumdharKhandi Pass (5490m) and descend to Dharali ki Udiari (4750m) - 9-10 h
We start by dawn depending on snow conditions and head towards the pass. The climb is gradual till the last leg to the top. There and couple of humps and a traverse before you reach the last leg below the pass. The approach to the pass is steep and we fix rope. The pass is knife edged with drops on both sides. Once on top you get to see the Banderpunch massif, Kalanag and Swargarohini massif standing tall around. The first section of the descent is steep after which it eases out. We set up camp in a safe area on the glacier. Overnight in Camp.
Day 8: Trek Dharali ki Udiari to Ruinsara Lake (3350m)
We continue our descent this day as we walk through vast snow fields till the end of the glacier. The campsite is by the small but extremely beautiful Ruinsara lake. You can enjoy the greenery and the oxygen rich mountain air. Overnight in Camp.
Day 9: Ruinsara lake to Godari (Bali pass base at 4100 m) - (5 h)
We start the day early so as to reach before afternoon. We camp below the pass along the glacial moraine. This is the one of the best locations for a camp with the valley below and the pass behind you. Camping at this altitude is a new experience which very few treks offer.
Day 10: Cross Bali Pass (4800 m) & descend to Upper Damini camp (4000 m) - (7 h)
We start very early today. The trail heads down south, over the ridge. It is a fairly short but steep climb up to the Bali pass on the southern ridge. A lot of glacial scree will be encountered here. We reach the top of the pass by 8am. You get a gorgeous view of various peaks from here especially of the Panchachuli peaks on a clear day. From the pass, we descend down into the alpine zone and reach the camping grounds of upper Damini. This place has water source nearby.
Day 11: Trek to Janki chatti (2400 m)
We descend to the forested trail leading to Yamunotri. After a quick visit to the famous shrine of Yamunotri, we make our way down the conventional pilgrim trail to Janki Chatti. Overnight in guesthouses in Janki Chatti.
Day 12: Drive to Dehradun
This is the final day of the trip and we drive back to Dehradun.
Inclusions
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
- Transport support from Dehradun to Dehradun ( Pick-up location: Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station Pick-up Time: Around 7:30 am )
- Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek. - Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
- Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
Exclusions
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC. - Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
- Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
- Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
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