Mukteshwar Tour

Day 1: Dehradun – Mukteshwar (330 kms) 9 – 10 hours’ drive

Day 2: Mukteshwar – Almora (16 kms) 5-6 hours trek

Day 3: Almora – Dehradun (347 kms ) 9-10 hours drive

At Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your Mukteshwar Tour. Whether you're an avid mountaineer, an adventure seeker or a group of friends, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made expedition program. This customized program will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals, technical equipment and any other premium facilities you may need during the trekking.

Starting from Dehradun or Pantnagar where you will be picked up all the way though Mukteshwar and taking in the peaceful sights in and around and trek to Almora along with all the other adventure activities you wish to do before returning back to your pick up destination you will get a once in lifetime experience.

Himalaya Shelter ensures your journey is safe and memorable with experienced local guides, technical support and all necessary permits. You can even request offbeat routes or sunrise hikes for a more immersive Himalayan experience.

Moreover, no other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a customized program will enable you to enjoy your journey without any hesitation.

The name Mukteshwar is derived after a 350 year old temple Mukteshwar Dham situated at the top of the mountain which has Lord Shiva as its deity.

The name Mukteshwar comes from the word Mukti which means salvation. It is believed that Lord Shiva granted mukti to a demon here thereafter which a temple was created with Lord Shiva as its deity. The Mukteshwar Dham is nearly 350 years old.

Apart from the religious significance to the region, there has also been a significant development of the region by the British.

In 1893 the British established the Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory in Mukteshwar to study and combat cattle plague. This laboratory eventually evolved into the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), which still maintains a hill campus in Mukteshwar. This IVRI contributed to the tourism of the region. Famous author and hunter of man-eating tigers and leopards Jim Corbett visited Mukteshwar and he wrote about Mukteshwar in his book The Temple Tiger and More Man-Eaters of Kumaon in which he wrote about the various difficulties faced by the people inhabiting the villages in remote areas of the region.

Mukteshwar Temple – Mukteshwar temple is a 350 yr old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. One can hike a short distance to reach the temple which is situated at the top of the mountain.

Chauli Ki Jali – Also known as Chauthi Jali is a popular tourist spot while visiting the region and its is located just 250 mts behind the Mukteshwar temple. According to the locals, a severe battle was waged between a goddess and a demon here. Today this spot is a perfect spot for adventure lovers with activities like rock climbing and rappelling for them to try.

Bhalu Gaad Waterfall – Bhalu gaad waterfall is a relatively undiscovered hidden gem which appears like a horseshoe from a height of 60 feet. This waterfall is accessible all year round and a must visit place for tourists looking for some peace and tranquillity.

Treks Around Mukteshwar – There are two trekking destinations from this point, one being Peora which is about 8 kms from Mukteshwar and is an excellent option for a day trek, however for those who wish to spend more time in the lap of these gorgeous Garhwali mountains, Almora is a better alternative. The trek to Almora is of about 2 days and the trail is about 16 kms from Mukteshwar. There are a number of tourist attractions in Almora which travellers should visit Like the Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple, Jageshwar Temple and Binsar Mahadev temple being some beautiful Architectural expressions of Hindu culture.

There are various treks in and around Mukteshwar. Peora to Mukteshwar Trek

is a 8km trek and is considered easy to moderate taking you through villages, forests, and meadows with majestic views of the snow clad Himalayas. One can even undertake a short 2km trek Bhalu Gaad Waterfall ideal for people with families and beginners.

The most common trek is Trek to Almora an easy to moderate level trek of about 16kms taking about 2- 3 days depending on where you start.

The trek is not suitable for families with young kids less 8-10 yrs old due to its uneven terrain and long walking hours. Acclimatization is also crucial as nights at high-altitude can be colder than expectations. During summer time, temperatures are normal but unpredictable weather can add difficulties.

For climbing technicalities, there are no technical sections, so no particular mountaineering skills are required. However, the guidance of a professional mountaineer or experienced guide is important. Solo trekking is not advisable. Trekkers should make the preparations after seeing all perspectives.

Summer – March To June

These months are ideal to visit the region. All sightseeing, treks are the surrounding natural beauty are well enjoyed in pleasant conditions.

Temperatures range from 15-27 degree C which makes the trekking in and around the region comfortable and enjoyable.

Monsoon - July To September

Uttarakhand receives a lot of rainfall during these months and the chances of landslides are very high. But with a light rainfall the scenery is lush and green.

Temperatures range from 10–25-degree C.

Winter – October To February

The region is covered in snow and if you are an experienced trekker or want to trek in snow then the place transforms into a winter wonderland.

Temperatures range from 5- 19-degree C. sometimes the temperatures can even be in minus

Mukteshwar is well connected to all major cities like Nainital, Delhi and Chandigarh. The nearest airport is Pantnagar which is approximately 100 kms.

Alternatively, one can come via Dehradun too which is approximately 330kms away. Private taxis and buses are available from both Pantnagar and Dehradun.

From Mukteshwar which is the starting point for treks around the region one can do a 8 km trek to Peora or a 16 km trek to Almora.

**Mandatory Backpacking List for Aancha Top Trek**

Clothing and Backpack

Get a good backpack (50 L) with a rain cover. Look for a bag that can provide you good back support. Pack 4 quick-dry t-shirts and 2 trekking pants. Get a pair of thermals (upper and lower) for night. Pack a fleece jacket or woolen sweater as a mid-layer. Get a waterproof wind breaker for sudden rain and chilly winds. For winter trekking, get a good down jacket. Now pack a woolen beanie and a balaclava. Get two pairs of gloves (woolen and waterproof). You should also pack a suncap for the daytime.

Footwear

You should look for good quality trekking shoes. Your shoes must be waterproof and provide good ankle support. Do not wear a new pair of shoes on the trek. Your feet must be familiar with the shoes. Now pack 4 pairs of trekking socks and 2 pairs of woolen socks. Pack a pair of comfortable slippers or sandals for the campsite.

Personal Care

For personal care items, start packing with your toiletries. Get a small zipper pouch and pack all the toiletries. Now look for a quick-dry towel and a toilet roll. You should also pack hand sanitizer and moisturizer. Pack a sunscreen that can protect your face from sunburn. You can also pack some snacks for the trek.

Physical Fitness Preparation for Trek:

To overcome the difficulty level of trekking, it requires strong cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and overall physical fitness. Incorporate these exercises into your routine to increase strength, stability, and stamina, which will help you tackle difficult terrain sections of the trail at high altitudes.

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

Transportation – Transport Support from Dehradun from Day 1 to Day 3 (Pickup time: 7:30 am, Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station)
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.
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 350 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. 🌱