Bagini Glacier Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate - Difficult
TREK DURATION
8 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
14,711 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
43 Km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
May to June | September to Mid October
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun (Prince Chowk)
Bagini Glacier trek Overview
Bagini Glacier trek takes one to offbeat but moderate trails through some interesting Garhwali villages, alipne flower fields and forests. The grandeur of this trek is fulfilled by the majestic views of peaks like Kalanka, Dunagiri East, Hardeol and Trishuli. The camp nearest to glacier serves as a camp for expeditions to Peaks such as Changbang and Kalanka, which adds to the thrill of this trek similar to what you may experience at EBC, but without the commercialization.
People who are new to trekking and want to explore the raw Himalayan beauty then Bagini Glacier can be the perfect trek. You will start your journey to the glacier from Juma village. You will walk through the beautiful villages like Dronagiri and Ruing. The trail is moderately challenging and will give you a thrilling experience. This trek is not just a trek to any mountain but a hike to beauty, adventure and mythology.
History Of the Bagini Glacier Trek
Today, the Bagini Glacier lies in the Nanda Devi National Park region. This location of the glacier is a place where every trekker and nature lover wants to explore. This is probably the best site for people who seek peace. Historically, the Bagini Glacier is located at a place with huge spiritual significance. You will walk through villages like Droragini, which are associated with the Ramayana. The locals believe that Hanuman lifted a part of the mountain to save Lakshmana. Even today, people offer blessings here as it is a part of religion.
The Bagini Glacier has always been an interesting part for the explorers. This glacier is the base for many huge Himalayan expeditions. In the 20th century, when mountaineers from different countries teamed up to explore the Nanda Devi territory, the Bagini Glacier became an important part of Kalanka and Changbang. It has huge significance in the Garhwal expedition. People who truly love mountains and want to explore the hidden trails and beauty never miss a chance to trek the Bagini Glacier. This trek has been sharing blessings for centuries to locals and people who seek peace.
Highlights Of The Bagini Glacier Trek
- Magnificent Bagini Glacier: The Bagini Glacier is a true beauty that holds the charm of the Himalayas. When you reach the glacier, you are in the lap of the Himalayas. Everything and everywhere will be peaceful. When the sun falls on the glacier, the snow starts shimmering, and that moment feels rewarding.
- Mesmerizing Landscape: The landscape of the Bagini Glacier Trek is very stunning as you will see a different scene every day. You will start your trek to the Bagini Glacier from a village and will finish in the middle of a glacier. The terrain will change like magic. You will see dense forests, meadows covered with wildflowers, and then tough rocky moraines. The barren land after the green meadows feels very different yet majestic.
- Spiritual Connection: The Bagini Glacier Trek is also a route to spirituality. The Dronagiri has a connection to the Ramayana. The locals believe in many legends, and warriors have connections with this place. Trekking to Bagini Glacier means adding a spiritual connection to your journey.
- Offbeat Trail: Bagini Glacier is an alluring yet less crowded trek. The villages and trails are still very far from commercialization. The locals are very helpful and simple. The trails are not crowded, and you can feel the joy of walking in peace.
Difficulty Level Of Bagini Glacier Trek
The Bagini Glacier Trek is a type of moderate trek. If you are a beginner, then you can face some challenges. But if you have done a Himalayan trek, then you can complete the Bagini Glacier Trek without any worry.
- High-Altitude Challenges
The main challenge in any Himalayan trek is the altitude. The altitude is 4511 m, which is similar to many other Himalayan treks. The oxygen level decreases, and many trekkers face AMS symptoms. You can prevent the AMS with proper acclimatization and a slow pace.
- Trail Conditions
The trail to Bagini Glacier is not simple, but also not very harsh. You start the journey from villages and forests. These sections are simple, and you can cross them without any worry. When you ascend in high-altitude zones then you can face some difficulties. The uneven trails, rocky sections filled with moraine, can make the trail challenging.
- Remoteness And Long Trekking Hours
The location of the Bagini Glacier is very remote. Once you leave the villages then you won’t find any shop or tea place. You can only stay in the camps with basic facilities. The trek is about 45 km long and you have to cover it in about a week. Walking for long hours in a remote location can be difficult.
Best Time To Visit The Bagini Glacier Trek
- Bagini Glacier Trek In May And June
Your summer is the best time to plan a trek to the Bagini Glacier. The lower regions will have clear trails with decent temperatures. You will still feel cold near the glacier region. The meadows will be covered with greenery and wildflowers.
- Bagini Glacier Trek In July And August
You should not trek to the Bagini Glacier in the monsoon season. The area is prone to landslides and the trail becomes slippery. Your visibility will be very poor, which can make the trek more challenging.
- Bagini Glacier Trek In September And October
Post-monsoon is also a good time to plan the Bagini Glacier trek. The trails will be dry with clear Himalayan views. You can enjoy the autumn as the scenery will start turning golden. The temperature will start decreasing, especially at night.
- Bagini Glacier Trek From November To April
The route to the Bagini Glacier becomes inaccessible in the winter. Trails become very risky, and even the villages close down. Trekking to the Bagini Glacier in winter is not recommended due to the high risk of avalanches.
How To Reach The Bagini Glacier Trek
You will start your trek to the Bagini Glacier from Juma village. This village is easily accessible from Joshimath. Reach Joshimath or Juma a day ahead of the trek and have proper acclimatization.
- Joshimath Via Road
Joshimath has good road connectivity to any city. You can easily find direct buses to Joshimath from Dehradun and Rishikesh. Some direct buses are also available from Delhi. Take a direct bus to Joshimath and then take a shared taxi to Juma.
- Joshimath Via Railways
You can look for the direct trains to Dehradun or Haridwar. Many trains are available to these cities on a regular basis. Now, after reaching Haridwar, look for the bus or taxi services to Joshimath.
- Joshimath Via Air
You can look for the flights to Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun). The airport is a bit far from the main city. You can take a cab and reach the Dehradun bus stand. Now look for the bus services to Joshimath. Or, you can go to Haridwar and take a bus or shared taxi to Joshimath.
Day 1: Dehradun to Joshimath - 9 h drive
Day 2: Joshimath to Jumma to Ruing (2,800 m) - 1 h drive + 2 h trek
Day 3: Ruing Village to Dronagiri Village (3,610 m) - 4-5 h trek
Day 4: Dronagiri Village to Bagini Base camp (4,484 m) - 3-4 h trek
Day 5: Bagini BC to Changabang BC via Bagini glacier and back to Bagini BC - 3-4 h trek
Day 6: Bagini BC to Ruing Village- 5-6 h trek
Day 7: Ruing to Jumma trek; Drive to Joshimath- 1 h trek + 1 h drive
Day 8: Joshimath to Dehradun - 9 h drive
Clothing And Backpack
The trek is about a week long, and you need everything in the trek. Get a 60L backpack with a rain cover and good back support. The bag should have the correct length, as you have to carry it on the whole trek. Now pack a pair of thermals for the night. Pack 4 quick-dry t-shirts and 2 trekking pants. Get a good fleece jacket and a padded jacket for sub-zero temperatures. You will also need a windcheater rain jacket for sudden rains. Now pack 6 pairs of socks (woolen and cotton) and 2 pairs of gloves (woolen and waterproof). Buy a sun cap for day and woolen beanie for evening.
Footwear
You will need a sturdy pair of trekking shoes. Your shoes should be high-ankled to prevent ankle injury. The shoes should be waterproof as you can face rain on the trek. Pack a pair of sandals for the campsites.
Personal Care
Get a small waterproof pouch and pack your toiletries. Now get a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated in the trek. Pack good sunscreen because the sun is very bright in the mountains. Now pack moisturizer for the dry skin and lip balm for chapped lips. Get a headlamp and extra batteries.
If you are looking for a raw adventure away from the crowd, then plan your Bagini Glacier Trek with us. You can experience the wilderness of the Himalayas on this trek. Our team is an expert in high-altitude trekking. This trek will be the journey to your soul. Our team will make all the arrangements for you. All you have to do is enjoy the serene beauty of Bagini Glacier.
Himalaya Shelter (HS) is a team of mountain lovers who are offering the best trekking services. We believe that every trekker should get the finest trekking experience. Our company provides customized trekking services. Plan the trek as you want. Our people will customize the whole itinerary for you. We can customize the dates, meals, campsites, and even trek pace for you. Our guides and support staff will take care of everything on the trek.
Day 1: Dehradun to Joshimath - 9 h drive
Begin your journey from Dehradun with a scenic drive to Joshimath, passing through Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag—famous confluence points of the Ganga and Alaknanda rivers. Reach Joshimath by evening and check into your guesthouse.
Overnight stay in Joshimath.
Day 2: Joshimath to Jumma to Ruing (2,800 m) - 1 h drive + 2 h trek
Drive to Jumma, the starting point of your trek. From here, trek through forest trails and mountain villages to reach Ruing, a beautiful settlement surrounded by oak and pine trees.
Overnight stay in Ruing Village (camp/guesthouse).
Day 3: Ruing Village to Dronagiri Village (3,610 m) - 4-5 h trek
The trail ascends gradually as you pass through lush meadows and forest stretches. Dronagiri Village, steeped in legends of the Mahabharata and Hanuman, welcomes you with majestic views of the Dronagiri Parvat.
Overnight stay in Dronagiri Village.
Day 4: Dronagiri Village to Bagini Base camp (4,484 m) - 3-4 h trek
Leave behind the charming village trails and head towards alpine landscapes. The trek to Bagini Base Camp opens up to stunning views of Rishi Parvat, Hardeol, and Kalanka peaks.
Overnight stay at Bagini Base Camp.
Day 5: Bagini BC to Changabang BC via Bagini glacier and back to Bagini BC - 3-4 h trek
This is the most thrilling day of the trek. Hike along the Bagini Glacier towards Changabang Base Camp. Get spectacular views of Mt. Changabang, Mt. Kalanka, and Mt. Dunagiri. After spending some time soaking in the panorama, retrace your steps back to Bagini BC.
Overnight stay at Bagini Base Camp.
Day 6: Bagini BC to Ruing Village- 5-6 h trek
Descend along the same trail, enjoying the beautiful alpine meadows and forests as you make your way back to Ruing Village.
Overnight stay in Ruing Village.
Day 7: Ruing to Jumma trek; Drive to Joshimath- 1 h trek + 1 h drive
A short trek takes you back to Jumma. From there, drive to Joshimath and relax after completing the adventurous part of the trek.
Overnight stay in Joshimath.
Day 8: Joshimath to Dehradun - 9 h drive
Drive back to Dehradun with unforgettable memories of the Bagini Glacier Trek, completing your Himalayan adventure.
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.
Inclusions
- 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.
- 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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