Panpatia Col Trek

Forming a bridge between two most important Hindu pilgrimage sites, Kedarnath and Badrinath, at an elevation of 4,200 meters, the Panpatia Col is one of the high-altitude mountain passes that gets across the Panpatia Glacier. It is surrounded by several major peaks of the Garhwal Himalayan region. From the group of 6 thousanders, the Nilkantha at an elevation of 6,596 meters is the most prominent one. Nonetheless, the peaks of Balakun at 6,108 meters, Kunaling at 6,471 meters, Januhut at 6,495 meters, Shri Parbat at 6,175 meters and Chaukhamba group and several other 5 Eight-thousanders are visible throughout the trail from Badrinath to Ransi.

The Panpatia Col trek that further traverses through two other high altitude mountain passes, several moraines, gushing streams and narrow cliffs is one of the toughest treks in the Garhwal Himalayan region. It was once the mythological route on which pilgrims used to trek from Kedarnath to Badrinath in 1 day. The route was lost in time but few demented explorers re-discovered the route and led it in the trekking map of the Garhwal Himalaya. The journey is further enriched with several picturesque campsites beside the pristine water of several lakes. Rich alpine meadows dotted with varied species of Himalayan flowers are a common site. The Panpatia Col Trek requires some serious acclimatization at certain altitude and is recommended only to trekkers who have prior high-altitude trekking experience.

The trek from Badrinath and heads to Dumkal Kharak and thereafter turns to Nilkanth Khal, which is at an altitude of 4,650 meters. The journey thereafter turns to the snout of Panpatia Glacier and later winds to the glaciated track to further climb towards Panpatia plateau. Thereafter crossing Panpatia Col, the trail leads to Maidagala Tal. The downhill trek continues to Madmaheswar and then leads to Ransi. The best time to hit the trekking tracks to Panpatia Col is during the summer and autumn seasons.

History of Panpatia Col Trek

Panpatia Col trek is named after Panpatia glacier and Panpatia Pass. Panpatia Pass was believed to be part of divine trail used by deities, gods and sages to connect Char Dhams, especially Kedarnath and Badrinath. Locals believe that Panpatia glacier was once travelled by Sage Vyasa who was the writer of epic Mahabharata. During his travel from Badrinath to Kedarnath, he followed this difficult route of Panpatia glacier because he wanted to avoid human settlements and distractions for seeking solitude and getting divine inspiration. Probably, this belief gave this name 'Panpatia' which possibly derived from 'Panch Pratha' (the five paths) which symbolizes the mystic routes of sages.

The region nearby Panpatia Col remained unexplored and isolated for a long time due to the difficulties of terrain. Only shepherds communities like Gujjars and Bakarwal used these routes for their seasonal migration. Though the region was notably used for spiritual and meditation practices by sages and hermits, the connecting route between Kedarnath and Badrinath is still considered mythical or not confirmed.

By the end of 20th century, when tourism started growing within India, some explorers tried to rediscover this mythical connection between Kedarnath and Badrinath. In 2002, a team led by Harish Kapadia, a veteran Indian mountaineer, successfully navigated this difficult pass. His explorations confirmed the possibility of connecting routes between two holy shrines, Kedarnath and Badrinath. Since then, Panpatia Col trek has become the most challenging non-technical treks in the Indian Himalayas.

Highlights of Panpatia Col Trek

Crossing the Panpatia Glacier and Col (5,200 m):

Panpatia Col trek involves traversing the massive Panpatia glacier and crossing the Panpatia Col at over 17,000 ft. These activities are very challenging but bring adventure with them. Trekkers usually enjoy their experiences of crossing them with icefalls and unpredictable weather. It also serves as a true test of trekkers' mountaineering skills and mental and physical endurance.

Remote and Unexplored Terrain:

Though Panpatia Col trek is very popular among mountaineers and trekkers, still remains largely unexplored. Due to its difficult terrain, remote valleys and high-altitude snowfields, less trekkers come here and that too experienced ones. In short, the trek is not crowded. The trail passes through places like Madmaheshwar, Sujal Sarovar, Parvati Gully which are holy and barely documented. They offer raw Himalayan wilderness to trekkers.

360-Degree Views of Majestic Peaks:

Though the entire trekking journey to Panpatia Col is very rewarding, the 360-degree views of prominent Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Neelkanth and Hathi-Ghoda Parvat give you an unforgettable experience. You will also pass through sacred lakes like Sujal Sarovar and spiritual vistas like Madmaheshwar along the route. This is so surreal to view this great panorama which is combined with raw nature and spirituality.

Mesmerizing Himalayan Flora and Fauna:

Panpatia Col trek includes lush forests to barren glacial zones. It offers a rich biodiversity and changing ecosystem. At lower altitudes, especially near Joshimath and Khirao you will see blooming red rhododendrons and maple, birch, deodar, blue pine trees. Wildflowers including blue poppies, primulas, anemones and edelweiss are full-bloomed in summer season. Also, the rare Himalayan wildlife like tahr, musk deer, blue sheep, monal and snow leopard (very rare but this region falls within its known habitat) may be spotted.

Difficulty Level of Panpatia Col Trek

Panpatia Col trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in the Indian Himalayas. It is suitable for seasoned trekkers with having high-altitude experience. The elevation range of Panpatia Col trek is from 2,700 m to over 5,260 m for which acclimatization is very crucial for trekkers. This trek is not suitable for beginners, kids and families.

The terrain of Panpatia Col trek is a mix of dense forests, boulder-strewn paths, steep climbs, glacial moraines, crevassed snowfields and high mountain passes. Trekkers have to encounter unstable rocks, long icy stretches and perilous ridgelines. The trail connects Badrinath to Kedarnath through remote and isolated alpine regions.

The trek takes 12 to 15 days to complete. Daily walking hours duration is from 6 to 9 hrs, often in challenging conditions. One of the major challenges is crossing Panpatia glacier and navigating through high snowfields. Whiteouts and sudden weather changes can add other challenges. Night temperature can go below -5°C and heavy rainfall and hailstorms can occur unexpectedly.

Due to the technical nature of the trek, support of an expert guide or joining a team is mandatory. Usage of equipment like crampons, ropes, ice axes are essential. River crossings and crevasse navigation demand technical help. Emergency evacuation is complicated and requires satellite communication due to no network coverage.

Overall, Panpatia Col is a highly challenging but highly rewarding trek that requires physical and mental endurance, high stamina and professional support. 

Best Time to Visit Panpatia Col Trek

The best time to trek in Panpatia Col is from May to June and from September to early October. These windows offer the most favourable time, stable weather and manageable snow level.

• May to June

From May to June, the trails are filled with snow bridges and melting glaciers. Snow can still be present, especially near Panpatia Col. It adds some adventure but trails can be slushy. However, the meadows are lush green and filled with blooming flowers. The sky is clear and visibility is good. Daytime temperature range goes between 10°C to 15°C at lower camps like Badrinath or Khirao. On higher camps like Sujal Sarovar and Panpatia, temperature can be around 0°C to 5°C. At night time it can dip to -10°C or below. Be prepared for extreme cold.

• September to Early October

This time landscapes come alive and fresh with more greenery after monsoon. Trails are dry but at higher altitudes, snow can still be present. The sky is clearer and mountain peaks like Neelkanth, Parvati Peak and Nanda Devi are easily visible. Valleys glow with the golden hue of autumn. During this time, daytime temperature remains around 8°C to 12°C at lower altitudes. Around Panpatia Col, it's around 0°C to 4°C. At night time it can go below –8°C. Try to complete your expedition by mid-October. Snowfall may begin by late October.

Note: Avoid July to August due to heavy rainfall which makes trails slippery and prone to landslides. Similarly winters (November to April) are not suitable due to heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.

How to Reach Panpatia Col Trek

Trekking to Panpatia Col involves journey through road travel and trekking in Himalayan terrain. The pick-up point is usually Dehradun, Rishikesh or Haridwar. All are well-connected by road and train to  major cities of India.

You can also travel by flight to Dehradun. Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport is the closest airport from Rishikesh and Haridwar. From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or bus to Joshimath which is about 270–290 km away and takes around 9–10 hrs by road. Joshimath is the base town where trekkers usually rest and prepare for Panpatia Col expedition.

The actual trek starts from Badrinath or Karchi village, depending on chosen route. Badrinath is approx 45 km from Joshimath and can be reached via a scenic drive. From here, the trail passes through remote regions like Shepherd Camp, Snout Camp, Moraine Camp and Panpatia Snowfield before finally crossing the high-altitude Panpatia Col (5,260 meters). 

The trek generally ends at Madhyamaheshwar or Ransi village, depending on the exit route.

Due to its high altitude, glacier crossings and rugged terrain, Panpatia Col trek is not connected by any direct public transport after Joshimath or Badrinath. All logistics beyond these towns such as porters, guides, food and camping equipment, must be arranged in advance through a trekking agency. 

The entire route falls in a remote, alpine zone with no mobile connectivity or road access, so proper planning and local support are crucial.

Things to Carry in the Panpatia Col Trek

Clothing

• 3 quick-dry T-shirts (full sleeves preferred)
• 2 trek pants (water-resistant if possible)
• 1 fleece jacket or woollen sweater
• 1 down jacket or heavy padded jacket
• 1 thermal inner set (top + bottom)
• Waterproof & windproof jacket
• Poncho or raincoat
• Woolen cap + Sun cap
• Neck gaiter or scarf
• 2–3 pairs of synthetic/woolen socks + 1 pair of woolen gloves
• Innerwear (quick-dry), towel

Footwear

• Trekking shoes (ankle-high, good grip)
• Floaters/sandals (for campsites)
• Gaiters (recommended due to snow/rock)

Bags

• 50–60 litre backpack (with rain cover)
• Daypack (10–20 litre) for summit day or acclimatization walks
• Dry bags or ziplocks (to keep items dry)

Personal Gear

• Trekking pole(s)
• Sleeping bag liner (optional)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Water bottles (2L total capacity) or hydration pack
• UV-protection sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm (SPF)

Toiletries & Hygiene

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap
• Wet wipes, hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper, sanitary pads/tampons (carry back used items)
• Small quick-dry towel

Personal Medical Kit

• Diamox (for altitude)
• Crocin/Dolo, Combiflam, Digene
• ORS sachets, antiseptic cream
• Band-aids, gauze, crepe bandage
• Personal meds (if any)
• Betadine/Savlon

Documents

• Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)
• Medical certificate (fitness)
• Disclaimer form (from your trek operator)

Others

• Power bank
• Extra camera batteries (cold drains battery fast)
• Energy bars, dry fruits, glucose
• Notebook + pen (optional for journaling)