Chenap Valley Trek

The Chenap Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys of our country. This beautiful valley is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The trek to Chenap Valley is very magnificent. The trail is full of beautiful forests, meadows, and majestic Himalayan views. Chenab Valley is less explored compared to the Valley of Flowers. The Chenap Valley is located near various popular destinations such as Badrinath, Auli, Tapovan, etc. The trek to Chenap Valley is rated as Moderate to Difficult. The average altitude is about 4000 m, which makes it a bit difficult to trek but offers gorgeous views of peaks like Kamet, Dunagiri, Nanda Devi, etc. 

This trek is untouched by tourists due to its difficulty, which makes it a perfect destination for trekkers. Its raw beauty and cultural richness offer a lot to the trekkers. The trial passes through big forests, meadows, and small streams. In the Rhododendron blooming season, the trail becomes a red carpet. Trekkers can also witness rare flora and fauna. The traditional architecture of houses and temples provides a glimpse of Garhwali culture. Chenap Valley Trek is a blend of beauty, adventure, and culture.

Although in close proximity, the Chenap Valley Trek might not be as popular as its cousin, the Valley of Flowers in Bhuyandar valley and thus remains pristine. En route there are high altitude lakes of Swanu, Nandu and Chenap by whose shores one can easily camp and stay.Visitors are strictly forbidden from camping inside the Valley of Flowers. An ancient temple of Raj Rajeshwari Mohan Nanda delights visitors and is located there. Strewn with a few hamlets here and there the valley looks like God’s own paradise on Earth.

Among all the trekking trails in Uttarakhand, this place deserves a special mention owing to its beauty. Between mid-May and mid-October, during or post-monsoon, is the best time for you to visit this place. The wildflowers bloom in full splendour, and the greenery comes alive.

First-time trekkers will enjoy a gradual and relatively easy to moderate altitude gain of approximately 2000m to 4000m around Numb Peak. The total trekking distance is around 60 km. This is the valley where Mother Durga fought the forceful battle with Mahisasura to protect her son.

Starting form Dehradun/ Rishikesh/Haridwar you can take a car to reach Vishnuprayag which is around 263 km away. It is a very scenic drive for around 8/9 hour that takes you through the holy towns of Devprayag (confluence point between Alaknanda, Saraswati and Bhagirathi rivers beyond which they flow as Ganga), Srinagar, Dhari Devi, Rudraprayag (confluences between Alaknanda and Mandakini river), Gauchar, Karnaprayag (confluences between Alaknanda and Pindar river), Nandprayag (confluences between Alaknanda and Nandakini river), Chamoli, Pipalkoti, Dwing, Joshimath and Vishnuprayag (Alaknanda is met by the Dhauliganga River). 

You need to get down from the car at Vishnuprayag and cross the Marwari Pool steel bridge over Alaknanda and thereafter the trek starts. 0After walking for 4-5 hours the trail gradually takes you to the beautiful village of Thaing (2,438m), 8km away crossing the Chaien village en-route. You can camp here or choose a home-stay for the night. The villagers are quite warm hearted in welcoming you, sharing their local cuisine, culture and telling you stories about ancient kingdom whose relics are still there.

Next morning you will need to start early after filling up your water bottles as water resources are scarce on the trail. The trail gradually ascends up to Dhar Kharak or Baidwa Kharak and takes you through wild forest with rare flora and fauna, and rare root fruits (kandmol). Small hamlets and infrequent human settlements, including Sunalgatha, Pilpar, and Pandari Gala, trail the path. After walking for 4 to 5 hours and a distance of around 6km the trail leads you to Dhar Kharak. After camping there overnight next day after trekking for about 3 to 4 hours and a distance of around 4km you will reach the picturesque Chenap meadows (3048m).  Here you can rest for a day to explore the surroundings.

The lush greenery and blooming wildflowers will keep you amazed and mesmerized. Next day, as the sun rises, you will behold breathtaking views of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Dronagiri, and Sona Sikhar peaks. Fulna and Maskyani bugyal (alpine meadows) are located 8km away, where you can trek up to the base of Sona Sikhar peaks.

After staying for another night at camp as with all round treks, you need to follow the same trail to come down to Thaing village and Vishnuprayag. This trail's enchanting views will rejuvenate your soul and leave you enthralled, ensuring you return for another fantastic Himalayan trail experience.

History Of Chenap Valley Trek

Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Chenap is a beautiful valley. This valley is situated near various popular spots. However, Chenap Valley Trek is not a very well-known place among tourists. It is not listed among the top popular treks of Uttarakhand, but it has a deep connection to the local history. The valley is located in the Chamoli district, which is known for its traditional migratory routes. Shepherds have been migrating with their cattle in these areas for centuries. Earlier, this route was used by traders to trade between high-altitude and low-altitude areas. This is also an important route among pilgrims. For centuries, locals from villages like Tapovan, Lata, etc, have been taking their cattle to Chenap Bugyal for grazing in the summer. 

Chenap Valley Trek is also a huge part of the ancient trans-Himalayan trade route. Traders often used this route for trading between India and Tibet. It was an important route for bartering salt, wool, metal, and other items. This Indo-Tibet route has been closed since the 1962 Indo-China war, but the trails leading to the valleys are still gems among the trekkers. Explorers and trekkers walk on these trails to find a connection with nature and spirituality.

Highlights of Chenap Valley Trek

Beautiful Chenap Bugyal

The most beautiful highlight of the Chenap Valley Trek is the Bugyal itself. The Chenap Bugyal is a vast alpine meadow that looks magical during the summer. After winter, the Chenap Bugyal starts turning green. If you trek during late summer, you can see a beautiful carpet of various flowers like blue poppies, primulas, etc. 

Majestic Himalayan Views

When you start ascending to the Chenap Valley, you will get a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks. You can see peaks like Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Dunagiri, etc. These peaks stand in front of you as if you can touch them. The sunrises and sunsets in these peaks are incredible. 

Less crowd

Most people choose the Valley of Flowers for trekking as it is the most beautiful trek in Uttarakhand. However, the Valley of Flowers opens for only four months and can be highly crowded. People who want an intimate experience with nature should go for the Chenap Valley Trek. It is a peaceful and perfect trek for people who want to disconnect from the modern noise.

Beautiful Trail

The trek starts from Thaing, which is a remote village of Uttarakhand. It is a beautiful village, and the locals are very humble. The trek takes you through dense forests of pine and oak trees. Rhododendron blooms will steal your heart as you will be surrounded by red flowers. The peace you found in the Chenap Valley Trek is unmatchable.

Difficulty Level of Chenap Valley Trek

The difficulty level of Chenap Valley Trek is rated as Moderate to Difficult. This trek is suitable for experienced trekkers. However, fit beginners can also do this trek without any difficulty. It is a high-altitude trek and requires good physical and mental fitness. 

High-Altitude

The Chenap Valley Trek starts from 2000 m and reaches around 4000 m in a few days. The Chenap Valley is located at an altitude of 13000 feet. Your body needs proper acclimatization for this much altitude gain. Trekkers may experience symptoms of AMS, such as headache, fatigue, etc.

Navigation challenges

The Chenap Valley Trek is like a hidden gem. It is very beautiful but not well-marked. You barely find signboards or visible trails on the trek. Plan your Chenap Valley Trek with a local guide or trekking company. Trekking to Chenap Valley solo without any guidance is not recommended. 

Trail and weather conditions

The weather in high-altitude zones is unpredictable. When you cross 3000 m, the weather may change unexpectedly. Sudden rain or snowfall is common in the high-altitude areas. In heavy rain, the trail becomes muddy and slippery. Rain can increase the difficulty level of the trek.

Best Time To Visit Chenap Valley Trek 

The best time to visit Chenap Valley Trek is during the summer season. The meadows become green and beautiful. Post-monsoon weather is also a good time to trek Chenap Valley. However, trekking in winter is not recommended due to heavy snowfall. Winter trek to Chenap Valley is only for experienced trekkers.

Chenap Valley Trek from Mid-May to Early July

Summer is the best time to plan your trek to Chenap Valley. In early May, you can see snow in the high-altitude areas. The valley starts turning from white to green. In pre-monsoon, like early July, the valley turns colorful due to the varieties of flowers blooming,

Chenap Valley Trek from Mid-July to August

Trekking in the monsoon is very risky. Chamoli district receives high amounts of rainfall, which often leads to landslides. The trails become very muddy and risky. Sometimes, reaching the base village becomes difficult. The valley will be covered with flowers in the monsoon. But the visibility will be poor due to clouds and fog.

Chenap Valley Trek from September to Mid-October

Post-monsoon is also a good time to trek to Chenap Valley. The views start getting clearer. You can see the panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The green meadows will start turning golden. Autumn is also very beautiful in Chenap Valley.

How to Reach Chenap Valley Trek?

For the Chenap Valley Trek, you have to reach Thaing village. This is a small village in the Chamoli district. The major city near Thaing village is Joshimath. 

Joshimath via Road

Joshimath is one of the major cities of the Garhwal division. You can find direct buses to Joshimath from various locations. Firstly, reach Delhi and look for buses to Dehradun or Rishikesh. From Rishikesh, you can find direct buses to Joshimath. 

Joshimath via Train

The nearest railway station to Joshimath is Rishikesh. This popular city is well-connected from various locations. If you can’t find a direct train, then look for trains to Dehradun. Else, book a train to Delhi as you can easily find trains to Delhi from your city. Now book a train ticket from Delhi to Rishikesh. From Rishikesh, continue your journey by road.

Joshimath via Air

The nearest airport to Joshimath is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. You can find flights to Dehradun from various big cities. After reaching Dehradun airport, take a shared taxi to Rishikesh. Now take a direct bus to Joshimath.

After reaching Joshimath, you can take shared taxis to Thaing village. The road distance is 18 km and will take about an hour. 

Things To Carry To Chenap Valley Trek

Chenap Valley trek is a beautiful and high-altitude trek. The trekkers should carry all the essential gear for safe and comfortable trekking.

Clothing

You need a good quality backpack (60L) for carrying your gear. Start packing with the base layer: 2 pairs of thermals. Now get a fleece jacket and 1 light down. Get a 1 waterproof jacket and trekking pants. Now pack 2 quick-dry t-shirts and 2 trekking pants. Get nightwear and undergarments. Pack a few pairs of socks, gloves, and a beanie. Don’t forget to pack a sun hat.

Footwear

Get a good pair of trekking shoes. Your shoes must have ankle support and a good grip. Pack sandals for campsites and crossing streams. You can also pack shoe covers when trekking in the monsoon season.

Personal essentials

Make a personal essential kit that includes toothpaste, a toothbrush, and soap. Pack a small towel, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer. Get sunscreen, moisturizer, and lip balm. Also, pack your government IDs and a few passport-sized photos. Get a torch or headlamp with an extra pair of batteries. You can also make a small medical kit including pain-relief medicines, ORS, band-aids, motion sickness tablets, etc.