Bankatiya Base Camp Trek

Bankatiya Base Camp Trek

6 Lakh+

Satisfied Trekkers

16+

Years of Experiance

1300+

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800+

Tripadvisor Reviews

Quick Information

Trek Duration

5 Days

Trek Difficulty

Moderate

Trek Group Size

12 max

Trek Distance

18 km

Trek Max Altitude

3,940 meters (11,500)–(12,900) ft)

Trek Region

Uttarakhand

Trek Pickup

Haldwani

Best Season

April–June (September–November)

Best Time

April, June, September, November

Trek Basecamp

Haldwani

Trek Backpack Fee

₹ 500

GST Fee

5%

Bankatiya Base Camp Trek Overview

The Bankatiya Base Camp Trek is a lesser-known Kumoun trek located in the heart of Munsiyari region. The Laspa village is itself very charming. You will spend your days between big forests and silent nights. The routes are the same trails that have been walked by shepherds for centuries.

The special thing of the Bankatiya Base Camp Trek is its offbeat and untouched nature. This route compared to the popular Himalayan treks is very unknown which enables the trekkers to experience nature in its purest form. Lack of crowds, noise, and commercialization makes the trek more of a peaceful retreat - the best thing to do when a person wants to be alone, meditate and have a more intimate experience with the mountains.

History of Bankatiya Base Camp Trek

The history of the Bankatiya Base Camp Trek is closely linked with the traditional life and migration track and pastoral culture of the Johar Valley area around Munsiyari. The trails to Bankatiya were in use long before it was discovered as a trekking destination by local villagers, shepherds and traders relied on them to survive and to move seasonally using the mountain paths.

These routes have been in use over the generations to enable people of Laspa and other neighboring villages to reach high-altitude grazing ground (bugyals) in summer months. Shepherds followed their sheep and goats and established temporary camps presently known as Bankatiya Base Camp. The camps were used as a resting place where livestock could graze as locals lived near water sources and open fields. These traditional camps gradually grew to be a household name among the villagers, which were transmitted orally.

The area near Bankatiya was also involved in the trans-Himalayan way of life of the Johar Valley which was historically related to the trade route of India to Tibet. Although the trade pass was not a significant route in Bankatiya, the trails that were around it constituted a larger network of mountain trails employed in movement, communication and the exchange of culture. These trails were well selected due to their natural protection, availability of resources and relative security during severe conditions of the mountain.

Locals believe that most portions of the forest are sacred and they think mountain gods and ancestral spirits guard it. Due to this belief system, the region was left untouched thus retaining its natural beauty and ecological balance despite the development of other regions.

More Information

Bankatiya Base Camp Trek Short Itinerary

  • Day 1: Haldwani to Munsiyari 
  • Day 2: Munsiyari to Laspa
  • Day 3: Laspa to Bankatiya Base Camp 
  • Day 4: Bankatiya Base Camp to Munsiyari
  • Day 5: Munsiyari to Haldwani

Bankatiya Base Camp Trek Itinerary

The distance between Haldwani to Munsiyari is about 300km and will take about 12 hours. You will start early in the morning and will reach Munsiyari by the evening. 

Laspa village is about 30 km away from Munsiyari. The day starts with a small drive towards Lilam followed by a trek towards Laspa village. 

Today we will start trekking towards the Bankatiya Base Camp. The trek is about 5-6km long. The terrain is rough but beginner friendly. Overnight stay at the Bankatiya Base Camp.

Today, we will start descending to Laspa and then a short drive towards Munsiyari. Overnight stay will be at the guesthouse in Munsiyari.

After early morning breakfast, we will drive back to Haldwani. You will reach Haldwani/ Kathgodam by the evening.

Highlights of Bankatiya Base Camp Trek

Offbeat and Remote Himalayan Trail

The remote and untouched nature is the largest attraction of the Bankatiya Base Camp Trek. This trek is very remote in the Munsiyari region in Laspa village. The path provides real wilderness and silence, expansive scenery, and nature are the ruling factors of the journey. This trek will be particularly satisfying to trekkers who desire seclusion and to experience the Himalayan ambience.

Beautiful Kumoun Himalayas

You will start seeing the Kumoun Himalayas range even before reaching the Munsiyari. The Himalayan range is visible from Almora. As you drive further, the range starts becoming more clearer. In Munsiyari, the Panchaculi will be standing in front of you. 

Exploring Shepherd Paths and Cultural Interconnection

The route leading to the Bankatiya Base Camp is an old path, which shepherds and villagers of the Johar Valley used a long time ago. This cultural association brings flavor to the trekking experience and the trekkers are given the chance to walk on paths that generations of mountain living have formed. 

Open Landscapes and Alpine Meadows

The terrain near the base camp is alpine in nature with broad meadows with breathtaking scenery. Such open areas are ideal in terms of rest, camping and enjoying the beauty of the mountains. The difference between the rainforests and the high-altitude areas is contrasting, which makes the walk aesthetically different and interesting.

Best Time To Visit Bankatiya Base Camp Trek

Bankatiya Base Camp From April To June

The Bankatiya Base Camp Trek is best planned during spring. These months are pleasant and the trails are clear, with the surrounding landscape full of fresh greenery and blooming flowers. The views will be clear with excellent Himalayan range views. This is a great time for photographers. 

Bankatiya Base Camp Trek From May to Early June

This trek is also good during late spring and early summer. The snow begins to melt at elevated levels and this opens the traditional shepherd trails and base camp grounds. The skies are clear giving undisturbed views of the Himalayan ranges that surround it. 

Bankatiya Base Camp Trek From July to September

During the monsoons, the Bankatiya Base Camp Trek can be difficult and dangerous. Sometimes, even reaching Munsiyai can be difficult due to landslides. You should avoid trekking to Bankatiya Base Camp in monsoon season.

Bankatiya Base Camp Trek In October And November 

Autumn is also a good time to plan the trek. You will see clear skies and better views. The weather can be cold and nights can be chilly. The scenery becomes golden and the sunsets look very magical. You can also experience the first snowfall of the season during Autumn.

Bankatiya Base Camp Trek From December to March

This region of Kumaon receives heavy snowfall. The route to the Base Camp might be inaccessible. The trek becomes very difficult in winters due to low accessibility and weather challenges. You should wait until the route becomes accessible.

The difficulty of Bankatiya Base Camp Trek

Moderate Level Trek

Bankatiya Base Camp Trek can be defined as a moderate trek, and can be done by trekkers who are new to high-altitude trekking. Although not a technical or a high risk trek, natural terrain and elevation makes it feel like an adventure and rewarding experience. It is an ideal introduction to offbeat Himalayan trekking to beginners and a serene and scenic trip to experienced trekkers.

Slow Ascent of Altitude and Well-Natural Trails

The gradual nature of this trek is one of the most comfortable in this type of trek as the body gradually adapts itself to the rising altitude. A slow path leads on through thick woods, open ridges, and alps. The route is mostly on old shepherd tracks which have been in use over generations. 

No technical or mountaineering skills

There are no crossings of glaciers, steep rock climbs or exposed ridgelines in the Bankatiya Base Camp Trek. No technical equipment or previous knowledge of mountaineering is required. This renders the trek safe and easy to first time trekkers as long as they observe simple trekking discipline and pay attention to their guide.

Remote Location

The physical challenge is moderate but the remote location is in Laspa village and this gives the added challenge of a different nature. Scarce mobile connection, lack of facilities and total closeness to nature demand mental preparedness. This remoteness makes the experience much better to many trekkers and not a challenge.

How To Reach The Bankatiya Base Camp Trek?

The Bankatiya Base Camp Trek is located in Pithoragarh district near Munsiyari. The beautiful town of Kumoun, Munsiyari, serves as the base for Bankatiya Base Camp Trek.

Delhi To Kathgodam/ Haldwani: You can take trains or direct buses for Haldwani from Delhi. The distance is about 300km and will take about 6-7 hours.

Haldwani To Munsiyari: You can look for direct buses or taxi services for Munsiyari. The distance is about 290km and may take about 10-12 hours. The Helicopter services are also available from Haldwani to Munsiyari.

Things To Do In The Bankatiya Base Camp Trek

Stargazing Under Himalayan clear skies

Night viewing in Bankatiya Base Camp is also good because there is no light pollution. The view of a sky full of stars, constellations, and at times even the Milky Way is a leisure that is unforgettable and adds magic to the journey.

Get to know Local Culture and Traditions

The engagement with the residents of Laspa village and its surroundings gives an idea of life in the traditional Kumaoni mountains. Hearing about shepherd paths, seasonal movement, and the local traditions can be discussed as the cultural enrichment of the trekking experience.

Unwind and Have a Digital Detox

The poor cellular coverage enables trekkers to be out of touch with the day-to-day nuisance. Taking a break is also essential to get the mind clear of screens, social media, and constant notifications and makes the whole trekking process more enjoyable.

Learn Himalayan Flora and Fauna

The area has high biodiversity. The trail has various species of birds, alpine flowers and seasonal vegetation that trekkers can see. The nature lovers will be particularly interested in watching the small elements of the Himalayan ecosystem.

What Things Should I Carry For The Bankatiya Base Camp Trek?

A wise packing is the only way to have a comfortable and safe trek to Bankatiya Base Camp Trek. Laspa village, Munsiyari, as the area is isolated, and the weather may turn unpredictable in a short period. It is necessary to have a good support trekking bag which has enough space to store everything necessary and good trekking shoes which have a good grip and support ankle when going through the uneven forest paths and the alpine area.

Heavy apparel is highly suggested and they are T-shirts that dry fast, warm inner wears, an insulated jacket and waterproof outer wear to keep off cold winds and sudden rains. Pack items like gloves and woolen socks. The number of medical facilities is scarce, so it is worth having a personal first-aid kit with basic medicines and energy snacks such as dry fruits and energy bars to sustain energy in case of an extended working day with walking.

It is also recommended to keep a valid ID, a bit of cash, a fully charged phone, and a power bank because of the poor connectivity in the area. Items like a camera or journal are optional and will provide an excellent addition to the experience to be able to remember the beautiful Himalayan nature. Light and smart packing will also make sure that trekkers can relax and enjoy the Bankatiya Base Camp Trek and yet be ready to confront the challenges of the high Himalayas.

Travel Tips & Safety Guidelines For Bankatiya Base Camp Trek

Plan According to the Weather Conditions

The weather of the Munsiyari region is rapid especially at the higher altitudes around Bankatiya Base Camp. Always check the weather before you plan the trek. You should avoid the monsoon and winter season. Look for the temperature drop as sometimes the nights can be very cold.

Follow Local Instructions and Marked Trails

Always use the laid out trekking paths and not shortcuts. The local guides know the terrain and the weather patterns, which makes them useful in safety and navigation.

Avoid Trekking After Dark

Night trekking poses more chances of accidents and error in navigation. Arrange your expedition in such a way that you do not walk at night.

Be respectful to Nature and Local Culture

Do not litter the path, nor disturb animals. Bring all the garbage and trek in an eco-friendly manner. Adhere to local customs, villages and sacred areas in the path.

Psychological Readiness to Distant States

The lonely nature of the trek may be demanding to other trekkers. Mental preparation, like having limited facilities, silence, and long walks, is better than enhancing safety and enjoyment.

Customize Your Bankatiya Base Camp Trek With Himalaya Shelter (HS)

Make your Bankatiya Base Camp Trek a pure success with Himalaya Shelter. Our team has incredibly good knowledge of the remote mountain terrain and their brilliant presence in the Indian Himalayas, will assist in the designing of itineraries that will suit your fitness, travel schedule, and trekking objectives. Whether it is a flexible trekking pace and the most experienced local guides or well-structured camps and high-altitude nutritious meals, all the details are carefully calculated to make your overall experience better.

The Himalaya Shelter Trekking also provides significant cultural experience with the local people around Laspa village which enriches the experience of the trip beyond the scenic beauty. With the logistics, safety and on-ground services, Himalaya Shelter transforms the Bankatiya Base Camp Trek into a relaxing and unforgettable Himalayan adventure that is uniquely customized to the needs of our clients.

Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) India

Himalaya Shelter is now operating in the sections of the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT), offering structured, well-paced journeys across the Indian Himalayas with a strong focus on safety, acclimatisation, and responsible travel.

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Inclusions & Exclusions

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.

Inclusion

  • Transportation -  Haldwani to Haldwani
  • 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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From

₹15000 $163

per person