Located in the Tehri Garhwal region of Devbhumi, Uttarakhand, Panwali Kantha is a mesmerising trek for many reasons. Even with well-laid trek routes, this trek is one of the off-beat destinations among the trekkers. This is one reason that naturally preserves the serene charm of the route and the bugyal in Panwali Kantha trek. Along with the peaceful nature this is one of the most gorgeous treks in Uttarakhand that offers sublime view of all Char Dham mountain ranges! No wonder this is called of the best kept secrets among the treks in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Panwali Kantha trek, which is a high-altitude meadow or bugyal trek, offers enchanting views in all seasons. In each different season this trek wears different attractive garbs. During the summer season the trails are clear and ornamented with the red-pink Rhododendrons. During monsoon the lush green cover of the meadow and the surrounding vegetation will transport the trekkers in a magical world. During autumn the crisp weather, clear views and the stunning blue sky will give you the company while you tread on the well-marked trek path. During winter the vast white snow-scape with glistening snow is as inviting as a fairy-tale world!
Apart from the wonders of nature and seasons, Panwali Kantha is also best known for being beginner friendly trek. The trek route once used to be a pilgrimage route. Naturally the trails are well-marked and the gradient is gradual. All these factors are helpful for first timers and beginner in their trek to Panwali Kantha. The easy ascend to 10800 ft of height over 5 days make it easier for the trekkers to acclimatise and chart their journey with less challenges. The trek has three well-marked starting points. We will take the one from the Guttu village. However, there are two more trek routes, one from the Gangotri side and another from the Kedarnath side. The Gangotri side trek route starts from Uttarkashi and the Kedarnath side trek route starts from Trijuginarayan.
Initially inhabited by the Dard and Lone tribes from the Bagrot Valley in Gilgit around 500-0 BC, the region later came under Tibetan influence in the 9th or 10th century AD, leading to the spread of Buddhism. In the 14th century, Islamic influence reached the valley through Baltistani preachers, establishing Muslim communities. Today, Suru Valley reflects a blend of these diverse cultural influences, making it a unique destination rich in history and tradition.
History About the Panwali Kantha Trek
Panwali Kantha trek, nestled in the mesmerising Garhwal Himalayas, is an offbeat tre. What many do not know about this trek is, the well defined trail that is followed in this trek, has been marked years ago by the pilgrims as this route used to be a significant pilgrimage route once to mark the yatra from Gangotri to Sri Kedarnath. Though the pilgrimage is not taking place through this route now, the well defined, beautiful trail has become trekkers’ favourite to enjoy a serene bugyal, or high-altitude meadow from where you one can enjoy the magical view of the famous Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath mountain peaks! Such a treat for the eyes and the soul! Panwali Kantha trek is a beginner friendly trek offering easy to moderate grade of trails. The beauty and the peace this trek offers is one of the most unique aspects of this trek that is attracting trekkers towards this offbeat journey. Once you join for this trek be ready to get get mesmerised each day with the unparalleled beauty of the Himalayas. In fact, there are a very few treks which come power-packed like Panwali Kantha where you get to witness such grand view of one after another famous mountain ranges.
Difficulty levels of Panwali kantha Trek
According to Season
Panwali Kantha trek is adorned with different beauties in different seasons. In the summer season the trek will mesmerise the trekkers with the gallery of red and pink Rhododendrons. In the monsoon season the deep green foliage adorns the trails and the bugyal offering a sense of deep rejuvenation to the senses. During the autumn season Panwali Kantha trek offers the stunning, clear views of the Char Dham mountain ranges and in winter the entire place is decked with pristine snows. November to April, navigating the Kyunkhola Pass becomes challenging due to snow ridges. The trek is an easy to moderate grade irrespective of the seasons.
According to altitude & temperature
The gradient of the Panwali Kantha trek is easy to moderate making it accessible for first time and beginners trekkers throughout the year. The highest altitude of the trek is 10,800 ft making it easier for trekkers to chart the trails of a period of 5 days. Additionally, the amazing view of the bugyal and the Char Dham mountain ranges offer the trekkers additional motivation.
According to Trekker’s
Panwali Kantha trek, an offbeat one in the Garhwal Himalayas, is a beginner friendly trek. This means the trek gradient is easy to moderate making it less challenging to cover the distance over a period of 5 days. The highest altitude is 10,800 ft so very less requirement of acclimatisation is there making it further accessible for beginner trekkers.
Best time to Visit the Panwali Kantha
Panwali kantha In summers (Months)
Summer months, in between March to May are the ideal time to do the Panwali Kantha trek. During these months the trails are free of snow, weather will be comfortable and the view will be clear. The melting snow gradually makes way for wild flowers and herbs to blossom and blanket the bugyal of Panwali Kantha. Summer months also paints the vista with red and pink Rhododendron making the trails look like right out of picture postcards!
Panwali kantha In Post monsoon (Months)
Post monsoon in the Himalayas is the time to witness the vibrant, lush greenery all around. Panwali Kantha is no different. The high altitude meadow is totally transformed into an inviting green carpet studded with wild flowers during the post monsoon months. Trekkers should always plan to have an extra day to witness and bask in the stunning glory of Panwali Kantha while attempting this trek. Post monsoon, during the autumn season the clear view of the Char Dham range of mountains under the clear blue sky and the green meadow make the entire place magical.
Places to visit and nearby attractions of Panwali kantha
Trijuginarayan Temple
Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Trijuginarayan temple is stepped in legends and is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Legends says this is the place where Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati and the perpetual fire that burns infont of the temple is believed to be from the time of this divine marriage.
Char Dham mountain ranges
The Char Dham mountain ranges comprises of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath mountain ranges and are located in the State of Uttarakhand. These mountain ranges are witnessed in all their glory during Chota Char Dham yatra. In the Panwali Kantha trek one can witness the breathtaking views of these sublime mountains.
Bugyals of Panwali kantha
Panwali Kantha trek in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand is a scenic, offbeat trek that takes you to a high-altitude meadow, or bugyal. The approximate height of this bugyal is around 3368 meters. The best part of visiting the Panwali Kantha bugyal is that you get to witness the unobstructed, sublime view of the Char Dham mountain ranges!
Prominent Peaks
Panwali Kantha trek is an offbeat trek in Uttarakhand but full of well-kept secrets! One gets to witness the majestic views of the Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri range of mountain peaks from this trek which is unique compared to any other beginner-friendly treks! Thalay Sagar, Kriti Stambh and many other mountain peaks grace the journey to Panwali Kantha.
How to reach the Base Camp of Panwali Kantha Trek
Step 1 - Plan your flight to Delhi/Dehradun or you can come via train
The starting point of Panwali Kantha trek, Guttu village, is typically accessed from Dehradun. To reach Dehradun from Delhi you can take an overnight train. There are various train options available.
Step 2 - Road Travel to base camp
If you are planning to reach Dehradun from Delhi by bus there are many bus operators you can select from. There are day and overnight buses from major ISBT of Delhi to Dehradun ISBT and other drop points.
What do people like about the Panwali kantha trek?
Panwali Kantha trek is increasingly getting popular among the trekkers for quite a few reasons:
The trek is an offbeat one and offers less crowded trails.
This is a beginner-friendly trek with gradual ascent and descent and less challenges on the trail.
Panwali Kantha Trek is an all-season trek and offers magical beauty during each season.
The high altitude meadow and the stunning view of the Char Dham range of mountains are something that are unputdownable reasons to any trekker.
The following list presents the necessary packing items and crucial documents as well as essential medical components required for the Panwali Kantha trek both in the summer and during the monsoon seasons.
Important Documents:
Identification: Passport or Aadhar card for verification at checkpoints.
Permits: Trekking permits if required.
Travel Insurance: Covering trekking activities.
Emergency Contact Information: Write down important numbers.
Personal Med-Kit:
First Aid: Bandages, adhesive tape, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, and antiseptic cream.
Medicines: Pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, altitude sickness tablets (Diamox), and any prescription medicines.
Blister Care: Moleskin, blister plasters.
Other Essentials: Tweezers, scissors, safety pins, and a thermometer.
Clothing for Winters:
Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal innerwear.
Mid Layers: Fleece jacket or wool sweater for insulation.
Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
The ideal selection for trekking includes three important qualities in these pants: insulation, fast drying capabilities and comfort.
Headgear: Woolen cap, sun hat, balaclava or neck gaiter.
The crucial equipment consists of insulated and waterproof hand gloves.
The necessary footwear includes trekking boots along with woolen socks in addition to good foot grip.
Extras: Woolen scarf or muffler, and extra sets of base and mid-layer clothing.
Additional Packing for Summer and Monsoon:
Bring waterproof rain gear, including a jacketand pants, as well as a waterproof backpack covering.
The attire includes sweat-wicking T-shirts with light trekking pants and shorts.
Sun Protection: sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen with high SPF.
Quick-Dry Towel: Compact and quick-drying for convenience.
Gaiters function as waterproof protectors for boots, which prevent water and mud from entering during monsoon conditions.
Expert’s Fitness tips for the Trek
The Panwali Kantha trek, located in Uttarakhand, is an easy to moderate but amazing adventure. To prepare for this trek, consider the following expert fitness tips:
Cardiovascular endurance: Build your endurance with regular cardio exercises, such as running, cycling, or swimming, for at least 6–8 weeks prior to the trek.
Strength training: Incorporate strength training exercises to build leg strength, core stability, and overall muscular endurance.
High-altitude acclimatization: Acclimatize to high altitudes by gradually increasing your elevation exposure over several days or weeks.
Flexibility and mobility: Incorporate stretching exercises to maintain flexibility and mobility.
How Does Each Day Look
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Complete day-wise Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Guttu
Drive Distance – 200 km Drive Duration – 6 to 7 Hours
Start your journey from Dehradun to Guttu, our day kicks off early, assembling at the meeting point by 7 am. The 6-hour drive to Guttu, a picturesque farming village in Tehri district, Uttarakhand, is our primary agenda. Leaving early ensures ample rest for the adventures ahead and accounts for mountain road unpredictability. It’s crucial to arrive before dark. Guttu, a sizable village, boasts meticulously terraced green fields, the backbone of its economy. En route, we pass the awe-inspiring Tehri Dam on the Bhagirathi River, the world’s tallest. Smooth roads lead to our trailhead, and Guttu beckons with markets, temples, chai stalls, and the invigorating ambiance of high-altitude village life.
Day 2: Guttu to Gaurmanda
Trek Distance – 7 km Trek Duration – 6 to 7 hours Altitude – 2500 meters
On the inaugural day of the trek, we tackle a substantial ascent of 907 meters over 7 kilometers. The dense Oak and Rhododendron forests provide a comforting distraction from the distance. The journey through vibrant woodlands is a pleasant, gradual climb, culminating at our jungle-bound campsite at 2,500 meters. The well-defined trail winds gently, offering occasional glimpses of high-altitude villages and lush green fields on the opposing side.
Day 3: Gaurmanda to Panwali Kantha via Pobhari
Trek Distance – 7 km Trek Duration – 7 to 8 hours Altitude – 3300 meters
The path ascends gradually through the forest to Pobhari at 2,945 meters. After a brief kilometer of level terrain, the incline resumes, leading to Dophand. By this point, we’ve covered 3 kilometers, passing numerous vacant shepherd huts. Beyond Dophand, the trail stretches flat for 2 kilometers, unveiling a grander valley and mountain vista. The final 300-meter ascent is steep yet continuous, leading to a cluster of stone temples frequented by locals. This secluded trail enhances the tranquil atmosphere.
When you reach to the Panwali Top, offering awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains.
In the early morning, we return to the summit for the prime view of the majestic mountain range. The sun’s first light paints a golden crown on the highest peaks, a breathtaking sight. Crossing enchanting meadows, each side reveals a unique array of splendid peaks, their distinct crags, ridges, and slopes. Time seems to slip away as you attempt to name and study each one. After a spell on the summit, we retrace our steps through dense oak and rhododendron forests to reach our familiar campsite, Gaurmanda.
Day 5: Gaurmanda to Dehradunvia Ghuttu
Trek Distance – 9 to 10 kms Trek Duration – 4 to 5 hours Drive Distance – 200 kms Drive Duration – 6 to 7 hours
On the final day of the Panwali Kantha trek, we follow the familiar path back down to Guttu. There, we retrieve our belongings and await our ride back to Dehradun. Anticipate arriving in Dehradun by late evening.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Know What's Included & Excluded in Your Adventure!
Inclusion
All accommodations on twin sharing tents as per the itinerary.
All meals during the trek (vegetarian with occasional serving of eggs) including breakfast, hot/packed lunch, and dinner with morning and evening tea Mayali Pass Trek
Anything is is NOT mentioned in the “Inclusions” or personal expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Get your questions answered here
The best time for the Panwali Kantha trek is during the autumn months of September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. Spring (February to june ) is also a good time, with blooming rhododendrons adding to the beauty.
The Panwali Kantha trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty. The trail is well-marked, and the terrain is not overly challenging. However, during winter (November to April), it can be more demanding due to snow-covered paths.
The highest point of the Panwali Kantha trek is Panwali Top, which offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It stands at an elevation of approximately 3,235 meters.
Essential items include comfortable trekking clothes, sturdy boots, a backpack, warm clothing, rain gear, a first aid kit, and high-energy snacks. It’s also crucial to carry any personal medications and toiletries.
Mobile network coverage is generally limited in the remote areas along the Panwali Kantha trek. It’s advisable to inform your loved ones beforehand and be prepared for limited connectivity.
The region is home to various wildlife, including Bharal (blue sheep), Ghoral, Himalayan bears, weasels, and musk deer. While encounters are possible, they are usually rare and tend to avoid human presence.
The Panwali Kantha trek usually takes around 4-5 days to complete, including the time for acclimatization, ascending, and descending.
Panwali Kantha is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India.
To reach the starting point of the Panwali Kantha trek, one typically travels to Dehradun, and from there, arrangements are made for a drive to Guttu, the initial point of the trek.
“I have been doing treks with Himalaya Shelter for the last two years and they are awesome people with pure humbleness.“
We at Himalaya Shelter consider our trekkers part of our community, a family of sorts and really understand the efforts that you put into taking that much-needed break and setting off to the mountains. Some of you may wait for months and even a year to plan out that perfect excursion. That’s why we want it to be “a perfect excursion” for you.
Our testimonials (read below) are a testament to our service-oriented mindset.
We take safety into great consideration and ensure our team is trained to handle emergency situations.
For a better experience, we provide accommodation on Twin Sharing throughout the trek. With most trekking operators you would get triple or even quad sharing accommodation.
Our Accommodation will have attached washrooms
Furthermore, we provide the essential safety gear for your trek –
Without any additional charges.
We pamper you with great food which keeps you going on the trek. (On our google maps out of 300 reviews over 80 Trekkers mention great food😋)
We do not outsource services to ensure topmost quality throughout your journey. We use our own fleet of Vehicles to ferry you to the base camp and return.
The minimum requirement to join our team, Trek Leaders should have done the Basic Mountaineer Course
Trek leaders in Himalaya Shelter have extensive experience in trekking and mountaineering. They are familiar with the specific terrain, weather conditions, and challenges of the region where the trek is taking place
Running or Jogging: Start with a comfortable distance and gradually increase your pace and distance over time. Aim for at least 3-4 days a week of cardio workouts.
Hiking Practice: If possible, try to find local trails or hills to practice hiking. Start with shorter hikes and gradually increase the difficulty.
Strength Training:
Legs: Focus on exercises that target your quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. Squats, lunges, leg presses, and calf raises are beneficial.
Core: A strong core will help with balance and stability on uneven terrain. Include exercises like planks, Russian twists, and bicycle crunches.
Upper Body: Don’t neglect your upper body strength, especially if you’re carrying a backpack. Incorporate push-ups, pull-ups, and shoulder presses.
Flexibility and Mobility:
Stretching: Regular stretching helps improve flexibility and prevents muscle tightness. Focus on stretching your legs, back, and shoulders.
Yoga or Pilates: These practices can help improve flexibility, balance, and overall body strength.
The Panwali Kantha trek is well known for the high altitude bugyal. There is also Trijuginarayan temple which is a legendary place as per Hindu mythology.
The highest altitude of Panwali Kantha is 3,368 meters.
You can camp, hike and visit a number of prominent places like the Trijuginarayan temple, Panwali Kantha bugyal etc.
