Bankatiya Base Camp Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
5 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
3,940 meters (11,500)–(12,900) ft)
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
18 km
BASECAMP
Haldwani
BEST TIME
April–June (September–November)
PICKUP POINT
Haldwani
Overview Of Bankatiya Base Camp Trek
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.
- 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Day 1: Haldwani to Munsiyari
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.
Day 2: Munsiyari To Laspa
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.
Day 3: Laspa To Bankatiya Base Camp
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.
Day 4: Bankatiya Base Camp To Munsiyari
Today, we will start descending to Laspa and then a short drive towards Munsiyari. Overnight stay will be at the guesthouse in Munsiyari.
Day 5: Munsiyari To Haldwani
After early morning breakfast, we will drive back to Haldwani. You will reach Haldwani/ Kathgodam by the evening.
The Bankatiya Base Camp Trek is moderate. It can be done by novices with simple fitness and by trekkers who wish to have an off the track Himalayan adventure without the technical difficulties.
Spring is the best time to plan the trek.
Yes, you can take a helicopter ride from Haldwani to Munsiyari.
Simple fitness and the capacity to walk a few hours on mountainous trails is advised.
Most of the parts of the trek have limited or no mobile network connectivity. Trekkers are expected to notify family members and friends.
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