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.
Drive Distance – 200 km
Drive Duration – 6 to 7 Hours
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.
Trek Distance – 7 km
Trek Duration – 6 to 7 hours
Altitude – 2500 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.
Trek Distance – 7 km
Trek Duration – 7 to 8 hours
Altitude – 3300 meters
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.
Trek Distance – 8 km
Trek Duration – 6 hours
Altitude – 2500 meters
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.
Trek Distance – 9 to 10 kms
Trek Duration – 4 to 5 hours
Drive Distance – 200 kms
Drive Duration – 6 to 7 hours
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.“
Writes Priyesh.
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.
Basic medical facilities may be available in some villages, but it’s recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary personal medications.
Accommodation during the trek is usually in Tents or basic lodges. These provide a warm and comfortable shelter from the cold.
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.