TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
5 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
12400 ft
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
30 Km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct and Nov
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun
The Gulabi Kantha trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range and captivating sunrises and sunsets. It presents a moderate trekking experience surrounded by vibrant wildflowers, lush meadows, oak and deodar trees, and diverse flora and fauna, showcasing nature's beauty.
During the trek, you'll encounter grazing cattle and shepherds in the highland meadows, adding to its unique charm. The highlight is the 360-degree view of Himalayan peaks like Bandarpunch, Shivalik, Bali Pass Trek, Sarutal, Fachu Kandi Pass, and Chaukhamba.
Gulabi Kantha now ranks among India's top summer and winter treks, like Kedarkantha Trek, Kuari Pass Trek, Dayara Bugyal Trek, etc. This trek is attracting global visitors in search of tranquility and beauty. The Gulabi Kantha Trek is an easy-to-moderate-level trek in terms of difficulty. The trek's base camp is Hanuman Chatti, where Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna River converge, a gateway to multiple treks like Bali Pass and Fachu Kandi.
With its cultural significance and panoramic landscapes, this low-altitude trek at 3,789 meters is perfect for families, beginners, and school tours. It offers encounters with Garhwali culture, local mythology, and diverse flora. While photography enthusiasts should bring gear, keep the backpack under 10 kg.
Yamuna Valley, holding religious importance, boasts the Yamuna River's origin from Yamunotri Glacier and offers breathtaking views of Panchachuli Group, Nanda Devi, and Trishuli. Gulabi Kantha, lying on the way to the Dodital trek, features abundant greenery and diverse flora and fauna, providing a glimpse of nature's wonders.
Located around 12,000 feet above sea level, Gulabi Kantha treats trekkers to Kalindi Sirkala, Bandar Poonch, Chaukhamba, and Shivalik vistas. The region caters to adrenaline enthusiasts with year-round activities. Taking approximately 5 days to complete, this lesser-known gem is being explored for winter games by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police force.
The best time to visit the Gulabi Kantha trek is at the end of the monsoon and before winter, which comes between September and November. This time of the year is when the weather is amazing, and the trekking trails are at their prime. Days are clear almost always with good visibility and views of the neighboring landscapes being very scenic.
Avoid going in the monsoon period (June to August), as the trails are very slippery and dangerous due to heavy rains.
The peak of the experience is the 360-degree view of Himalayan peaks, including Tali Sattak, Indelass Pass, Raital, Bali Pass, Birhe Mountain, Sarutal, and the Fachu Kandi Pass. The federal of mountain known as Gulabi Kantha is currently ranked among top winter and summer trails in India, which are the favorite places of travelers from all over the world to enjoy nature and tranquility.
Hanuman Chatti has been placed at a place that is confluence of the two rivers of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna. Hanuman Chatti, 13 kilometers off Yamunotri Dham and positioned at the altitude of 2,400 m, is an ideal place for a visit, where a number of accommodation options are also available.
Nishni Village is the first and last village on the route of the Gulabi Kantha Trek. This village provides us a night's stay for the Gulabi Kantha Trek. Travel and stay generally require electricity and cellphone networks to be there.
The second day's overnight stay on the Gulabi Kantha Trail is at Seema Thath. The 10-kilometer way from Nishni’s settlement to Seema’s hut is just enchanted, crossing mossy atlantis landscapes with maples and amazingly green forest. Deep, primordial forest, which enchants you with the power of nature, covers you up to the skies.
Yamunotri Temple is considered one of India's shrines amongst the holy destinations, from Hanumanchatti, the trek starting point. The Yamunotri Temple, as per the belief of Hinduism, is said to be the residence of the river goddess Yamuna. The temple rests in the Bandarpoonch slope, besides Kalind Parbat, devoted completely to Goddess Yamuna, the tallest temple dedicated to "Yamuna" in India. On the last day of the Gulabi Kantha Trek you can visit the Yamunotri Temple and the Shani Mandir situated on the clifftop.
Hanuman Chatti is the basecamp of the Gulabi Kantha Trek, reachable only by road transportation. However, there is only a single government bus that directly departs for Janki Chatti from Dehradun early in the morning at 6:00 am. For various options for public transportation, Barkot is a nearby place to Janki Chatti and is well-connected with Dehradun through direct public buses and taxis.
From Dehradun, public vehicles depart frequently from Dehradun Railway Station, starting at 6 am in the morning and closing at 3 pm in the evening. After reaching Barkot, one can opt for another public vehicle to Janki Chatti.
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Hanuman Chatti
Drive: 172 km in 5 to 6 hrs
Altitude gain: 640 Meters to 2400 Meters/7874 feet
Accommodation: Guest House/ Homestay
Meals: Evening Tea-Snacks + Dinner
On Day One, you will travel from Dehradun to Hanuman Chatti. Your stay will be in Nishni village at Hanuman Chatti, which is the starting point of the Gulabi Kantha trek. It is a quaint village surrounded by magnificent mountains and it has one of the well-known Shiva temples.
Alternatively, go to the Yamunotri Temple situated 5 km from Janki Chatti. Conclude the day with an organic dinner and lovely talks together with other travelers to be remembered in a quiet setting.
Day 2: Hanuman Chatti to Seema Thatch
Trek: 10 km in 4 to 5 hrs
Altitude gain: 2400 Meters to 3400 Meters/11,155 feet
Accommodation: Alpine tents
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Tea-Snacks + Dinner
Starts Gulabi Kantha Trek, beginning with the colorful breakfast that puts you in action. The hike to Seema Thatch covering 10 km presents a stunning trip through pine, maple, and dense forests that hug you with the beauty of nature. You can have your lunch at Kandola, a lovely place with beautiful surroundings of the greenery. Continue your trek
When you arrive, treat yourself to a rejuvenating break with tea and snacks. In the day, see the sky burning with shades of orange as an exciting sunset transfixes into a spellbinding twilight. Endow the unforgettable scenic splendor with a deep impression.
The day ends with a rich dinner served at 7 o’clock, the perfect ending to your food adventure after wandering for most of the day. However, as you doze off to sleep in the shelter of your tent amidst Seema Thatch’s tranquility allow yourself to be lulled into a deep slumber by nature sounds.
Day 3: Seema Thatch to Gulabi Kantha and back back to Seema
Trek: 5 km in 2 to 3 hrs for one way
Altitude gain: 3400 Meters to 3789 Meters/12400 ft and return to 3400 Meters
Accommodation: Alpine tents
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Tea-Snacks + Dinner
Start your day with a generous breakfast, preparing you for an engaging journey. 5 km trek to Gulabi Kantha Peak is a must with picturesque views and engaging encounters. As you arrive at the summit around 1 pm, enjoy a hot lunch while surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.
Do not miss this chance to see the mountains around with a white veil containing Kalindi Srikala, Bandar Poonch, Chaukhamba and Shivalik range. Capture these magnificent images on pictures that will become mementos of your trip to the Himalayas.
Find yourself immersed deep into the local mythology while listening to cultural insights shared by professional guides. Relish a cup of tea as the feeling from it merges with that felt in cold mountain air. Apart from magnificent viewscapes, the Gulabi Kantha Peak also has an opportunity to become a part of cultural and natural heritage.
As the evening sets in, head back to Seema Thatch camp as you end your journey. A delicious dinner comes, bringing an ideal conclusion to a day full of discovery, marvels and rich culture. Return to the safety of your camp, going over what you have seen and done during that day as you prepare for the next portion of your Gulabi Kantha Trek.
Day 4: Seema Thatch to Hanuman Chatti
Trek: 10 km in 4 to 5 hrs
Altitude Loss: 3400 Meters to 2400 Meters
Accommodation: Alpine tents
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Tea-Snacks + Dinner
After a delightful breakfast, leave the beautiful Seema Thatch and check into Hanuman Chatti where you are going to meet your final destination of this trek. The day’s trip is interesting, scenic and thrilling.
As you make your way up the trail, at 1 pm a timely lunch is scheduled on the kandola further to keep one going down. This halt provides more than just a refueling opportunity, it also allows you to unwind and enjoy the last leg of your Gulabi Kantha Trek.
Arriving in Hanuman Chatti by 4-5 pm you’ll come back to the trek’s starting point, thinking about what you have seen during these past days. As the last point of your trekking mission, base camp is like a homecoming where you find familiarity.
The visual aspects of the landscape evolve throughout the descent offering a contrast to that on ascent. On the way back to Hanuman Chatti, one has time for contemplation and reflection over every bit of conquered terrain that is so varied.
When you reach the base camp, stop to appreciate how good it is that you finished the Gulabikantha Trek. The day ends, and you can think back on these memories of a good travel journey until the next one begins.
Day 5: Hanuman Chatti to Dehradun
Drive: 172 km in 5 to 6 hr
Altitude loss: 2400 Meters to 640 Meters
Accommodation: NA
Meals: Only Breakfast
Say goodbye to the fascinating scenery of Hanuman Chatti, leaving Dehradun with a lovely memory of Gulabi Kantha Trek. Our devoted staff provides a pleasant trip, leaving you at the railway station or airport for your onward journey. Consider the marvelous scenery, instances of cultural diversity and empowering experiences throughout this trek.
As you return, take with you the splendor of the mountains and friendships that are new. The trip may conclude, but the recollections will stay as a reminder that you had gone through an incredible expedition. We hope that Gulabi Kantha Trek has forever sealed a place in your heart, and beckons you to visit us again for more Himalayan expeditions. Safe journey, and may the mountains’ reverberation guide you back to your home.
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.
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. 🌱