18 Must-Do Treks from Sankri, Uttarakhand to Discover Nature’s Beauty

Treks From Sankri – Uttarakhand’s Prideful Journeys

Sankri is one of the quaint natives of Uttarakhand. The hamlet serves as the base camp for multiple Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand. Treks from Sankri are one of its kind to explore Uttarakhand’s wildlife and terrain. The locals of Sankri are extremely warmly and hospitable. Thus, backpackers do not need to be hesitant in moving around this zone. Although there are uncountable treks in India, the Uttarkashi terrain will serve you with unforgettable memories. It is one of the best places to explore the unexplored Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand in particular and India in general. Sankri is a magical gateway into the wonders of Indian trekking.

Common Views You See During The Treks From Sankri

The mountain ranges comprising Swargrohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag or Black Peak, Gangotri, and Yamunotri are a few of the many peaks and ranges that one sees while trekking the passes and valleys of this region. In addition, alpine meadows, a myriad of terrains, interesting ascents and descents, exotic passes and valleys with enchanting flora and wild fauna, and tricky narrow trails are many exclusive features when you plan one of the treks from Sankri.

How to reach Sankri?

Sankri to Dehradun and Dehradun to Sankri is a beautiful ten to twelve hours journey passing through the deep pine forests and exotic flora and fauna. Kedarkantha, Bali Pass, Har ki Dun, Rupin Pass, etc. are a few of the very popular destinations that observe the arrival of innumerable trekkers and backpackers.

The list in the order of their altitudes, from low to high, presents a holistic number of treks from Sankri.

1. Har Ki Dun Trek:

Altitude: 12467 feet

Season: April to June, September to December

Distance covered: 18 km

No. of Days: 6 to 7

Difficulty: Moderate

Har Ki Dun is one of the most exotic valleys of the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand. While it is extremely beautiful in summers overlooking the flora and fauna of the Har ki Dun valley, it is also simply mesmerizing in winters. Har ki Dun means the Valley of Gods. The bird of the State Uttarakhand called as colourful Himalayan Monal resides in this life-rich valley. Bird enthusiasts will have a fantastic time spotting Golden eagles and Himalayan griffins. More than the natural habitat, the valley also provides a mythic tale to the trekkers. It is said that the Pandavas undertook the same route in the search of heaven towards Swargrohini peaks.

2. Winter Kedarkantha Trek:

Altitude: 12500 feet

Season: May: June; December to February

No. of Days: 6 to 7

Difficulty: Moderate in Winter, Easy in Summer & Autumn

Kedarkantha trek is undoubtedly for beginners. Beautiful campsites, amusing time with snow, and the thrilling summit are a few of the exquisite features of Kedarkantha Peak. While December is the most exciting time to plan the summit to this challenging peak, you can also look forward to a pleasant time, here in summer. The lush pine forests, maple, and oak green leaves are dried by the winter. The second campsite od Juda ka Talab is one it’s a kind lake to chill around its banks. Kedarkantha’s temperature makes it a suitable trek for the entire year.

3. Bali Pass Trek:

Altitude: 16240 feet

Season: May-June and September-October

Distance covered: 56km

No. of Days: 7 to 10

Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

The beautiful Ruinsara Lake, en route, is one of the unique selling points of this Bali Pass trek. This is an offbeat trek. The trek belongs to the list of unexplored trails in the western Himalayas. The route matches with the Har ki Dun trek until the campsite of Seema. Further, you reach Ruinsara gorge which covers a range of exotic forests. It is not a moderate trek. Hence, the trekkers are expected to prepare well before embarking on this beautiful journey to Bali Pass. The temperature is also extreme during the winters hence it is recommended to do this trek in September as the weather is bearable. The Bali Pass trek package connects the Yamunotri Valley with the Har Ki Dun Valley.

4. Phulara Ridge Trek & Pushtar Bugyal Trek:

Altitude: 11581 ft

Season: May-June; August to October

No. of Days: 7 to 10

Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

Pushtar Bugyal is one of the rare treks in Uttarakhand and is hardly offered by the trekking firms around. The trek has a base campsite of pristine Mori River. What is better than staying next to the brimming river and enjoying the morning chores in the free-flowing water! Terrace farms, wildflowers, mountain streams, local villagers performing their daily chores and top of the world view are few of the attention-drawing aspects of this easy to moderate trek in Himalayas.

5. Har Ki Dun Ruinsara Tal Trek:

Altitude: 11975 ft

Season: March-June and September- December

No. of Days: 7 to 8

Difficulty: Moderate

Ruinsaral Tal is a terrific freshwater lake situated at the base of Mt Kalanag or Black Peak. Starting from Sankri, the Ruinsara Tal trek follows a similar trek route as that of the Har Ki Dun and Bali pass trek. However, it deviates from the campsite of Seema. From then on it is at a distance of 14 km. As you reach the Ruinsara lake, you will observe some of the amazing Rhododendrons and multiple wildflowers like orchids, etc. The lake is deemed to be sacred by the residents of this beautiful valley. One of the mesmerizing and relaxing spots for camping, it also serves as a base camp for the Kalanag or Black Peak.

6. Chaainsheel Bugyal Trek:

Altitude: 11811 ft

Season: May-June; September- October

No. of Days: 7

Difficulty: Moderate

The Chaainsheel Bugyal trek will offer you spectacular views of Deodar forests, an expanse of rhododendrons, and silver birch as a treat. The Chaainsheel Valley lies between the two states of Himachal and Uttarakhand. Apart from the ranges mentioned, one could also receive breathtaking glimpses of the Pir Panjal, Kinnaur, and Dhauladhar ranges. The unique selling point of this trek is that the route lets you enjoy a lot of waterfalls, natural pools, and rivers. Moreover, the Gujjar houses en route are an epitome of local architecture and aesthetics.

7. Rupin Supin Trek:

Altitude: 12287 ft

Season: March to June; September to November

No. of Days: 7

Difficulty: Moderate

The trek begins at the Rupin River and ends at the Supin River. Thus, the name of the trek as Rupin Supin. Besides, the lush green foliage that surrounds this river is one of the kind. A hardly explored trail, the trek is an offbeat one located in the northwest corner of Uttarakhand.

8. Dev Kyara Bugyal Trek

Altitude: 13452 ft

Season: May-June; September- October

No. of Days: 7 to 10

Difficulty: Easy

The Dev Kyara Bugyal is an amazing peak to summit. This is one of the peaceful treks as compared to the other coveted ones. The lush green meadows, moraine ridges, and glacial basins are some of the exciting features of this peak. Passing along the trail that runs parallel with the tributary of Supin river called Dibra Gad river, the valley discloses mesmerizing views that comprise wild strawberries, wild mushrooms, and exotic flowers. Dev Kyara meadow offers unmatched views of multiple unnamed peaks.

9. Saru Tal Trek:

Altitude: 13780 ft

Season: June and October

No. of Days: 9 to 10

Difficulty: Moderate

The Saru Tal is a high-altitude lake of the western Garhwal Himalayas. The pleasant weather during the days complements with a chilly night in this beautiful trek. The moderate Saru Tal trek is also one of the less popular ones. Moreover, camping alongside lake is always a favourite thing for trekkers and Saru Tal will unarguable let you feel the blissful time.

10. Fachu Kandi Trek:

Altitude: 14,025 ft

Season: May- June; September to October

No. of Days: 7

Difficulty: Moderate

The terrific Fachu Kandi pass is situated nearby eye-catching Saru Tal. Having unexplored by the trekkers, the virgin trail is indeed untouched, serene, and worth a trial. Adventurous combination of high ridges, and steep ascents: trekkers would relish this while quenching the thirst at streams en route. The route is similar to that of the Kedarkantha trek, only to move further and witness the unseen zones.

11. Baraadsar Lake Trek:

Altitude: 14435 ft

Season: June and September

No. of Days: 9

Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

This summer trek of high-altitude Baraadsar Lake is a treat for backpackers who love to explore the serene natives and interact with the locals. Bhitari, Kasla, Fhitari, Jakhol, and a few more around are quaint villages of the area. The lake is located between the Rupin and Supin valleys in the Garwhal Himalayas. Considered sacred by the locals, the Baradsar Lake trek is not so popular amongst the trekker community. Owing to the altitude, choosing this spot will be the right decision for beginners!

12. Nalgan Pass Trek:

Altitude: 14600 ft

Season: May-June; September- October

No. of days: 8 to 10

Difficulty: Moderate

Nalgan Pass is a beautiful spot, recommended only for seasoned trekkers. Apart from the majestic views of the mighty mountains, the trekkers can either camp or spend some time on the banks of Kinsar Lake. It is closer to Rupin Pass. If you have done the Kedarkantha trek, then this could be your ideal next venture to explore.

13. Maldaru Trek:

Altitude: 14763 ft

Season: May- June, September- November

No. of days: 8 to 10

Difficulty: Moderate

Ruinsara Tal, Baradsar Tal, and Maldaru Tal are triumvirate lakes of the zone. All the lakes are accessible for trekking purposes. Maldaru lake is considered very auspicious and worshipped by the fellow villagers. Being one of the difficult treks of the Uttarkashi, it is advisable for only seasoned trekkers.

14. Rupin Pass Trek:

Altitude: 15279 ft

Season: March to June; September to November

No. of Days: 8 to 10

Difficulty: Difficult

The Rupin Pass Trek is one of the most coveted Himalayan treks in India. The trekkers will be pleasantly surprised at every camp that unfolds a whole together with a new landscape. Walking along the Rupin river and filling your bottles, is an enchanting feeling. Rupin pass trek is a full package that comprises, local villages, glacial meadows, snowfields, refreshing waterfalls, and an amazing pass.

15. Singha Ghati Trek:

Altitude: 16700 ft

Season: May-June; September-October

Difficulty: Difficult

Singha Ghati is a high-altitude pass, preferably for experienced trekkers. The vast snowfield, glacial meadows, and possibly crevasses, Singha Ghati reaches to the village called Rakcham in Himachal Pradesh. The pass is situated at the border of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. The trek is not often explored and thus it is one of the less coveted and crowded.

16. Borasu Pass Trek:

Altitude: 17224 ft

Season: May-June and September-October

No. of Days: 8

Difficulty: Difficult

Situated at the border of two exceptionally beautiful north-Indian states of Himachal and Uttarakhand, Borasu is a high mountain pass. It is also closer to the border of Tibet. A connecting link to the Tons Valley of Uttarkashi with Baspa Valley in Himachal, it follows the same trail as that of the popular Har ki dun trek. The Borasu pass lies further in the same trail. The trek offers dense forests of Willow, Chinar, Chestnut, and many more. Passing through the coniferous trees and lush green meadows, the Borasu Pass trek is not a moderate one. the high altitude will burn your calories. So, you might as well be ready for this very interesting high Borasu pass trek!

Read more about mountain passes

17. Dhumdhar Kandi Pass:

Altitude: 18011 ft

Season: May-June; September- October

No. of Days: 12

Difficulty: Difficult

Dhumdhar Kandi pass is a link to Bhagirathi and Tons valley. Tucked between two large rivers viz. Yamuna and Bhagirathi, they are fed by glaciers of this high-altitude pass. Beautiful green meadows, expansive snowfields, this historic pass also grants vivid views of Kalanag, Bandar Poonch, Yellow Tooth, and Swargrohini.

18. Khimloga Pass Trek:

Altitude: 18740 ft

Season: May-June; September-October

No. of Days: 9

Difficulty: Difficult

Khimloga Pass is a high-altitude pass, hardly given an undaunted attempt. This is a must-do if you have the adventure blood in you and definitely want to try something new and yet that gives you a feeling of adrenaline rush. Situated in the Dhauladhar range; Khimloga Pass comprises crevasses, steep rock cliffs to climb, vast snowfields, and lengthy ridges. The Khimloga pass trek is like an expedition because of its difficult configuration.

Closing words:

In conclusion, the treks from Sankri, Uttarakhand offer an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the pristine beauty of the Himalayas. Each trail weaves its own tapestry of natural wonders, from lush forests to majestic peaks and serene alpine lakes. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a novice adventurer, there’s a trail for you here. So, gear up, pack your bags, and embark on these unforgettable journeys that promise not only adventure but also a deeper connection with nature. Sankri is your gateway to the Himalayan paradise, and these 18 treks are your tickets to a world of exploration and discovery. Start planning your next trekking expedition to Sankri, and let the mountains inspire you like never before. Your adventure awaits!

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