Trekking in Uttarakhand
Hieun Tsang, the 7th century Chinese pilgrim traversed a part of the Garhwal region and Adi Shankara, the 8th century hindu saint and reformer, visited the remotest regions. To him we owe the establishment of some of the most sacred shrines of Garhwal.
Countless treks can be organised in the region. Also many agencies in the larger towns supply the everincreasing amount of trekkers. Locally available are all the paraphernalia required for trekking, while porters and poneys are available at most of the roadheads.
Panch Kedar Trek
Rishikesh - Kedarnath - Madmaheshwar - Tungnath - Rudranath - Kalpeshwar - Rishikesh
Duration: 15 days
As the legend goes, in the Mahabharata, while on their Himalayan pilgrimage, the Pandavas decided to pay homage to Lord Shiva. But Lord Shiva was not interested in meeting them as they were guilty of gotra hatya (killing their brethren). Seeing the Pandavas coming, the Lord disguised himself as a bull. But the Pandavas saw through Shiva's disguise. Realizing that his disguise had not worked the bull tried to plunge himself beneath the ground. But Bhima was swift and held on the hind legs of the bull, thus preventing it from vanishing. In the struggle that ensued different parts of Lord Shiva's body appeared at various places in Kedarkhand. The forehead showed up at Pashupatinath in Katmandu - Nepal, the hump of the bull at Kedarnath, the torso including the navel at Madhmaheshwar, the arms at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, and the matted hair at Kalpeshwar. The Panch Kedar trek includes all the five shrines associated with the legend. All of them are situated in the Kedar Valley.
At Kedarnath, which is situated at the head of Mandakini River, the Linga is a natural rock that resembles the hump of a bull. Madhmaheshwar, situated at the base of Chaukhamba Peak, is at an altitude of 3500 m. Here the Linga is worshipped in the form of a navel. Tungnath, where the arm of Shiva appeared, is the highest temple in Garhwal and is situated at an altitude of 3810 m. 500 meters above the temple of Tungnath is Chandrashila, with a breathtaking view of the Himalayas. Rudranath is where the face of Shiva had appeared. Here there is a natural rock temple, in which the Shiva Mukha is worshipped. To reach Rudranath, you have to trek through alpine meadows and dense forests, crossing an altitude of more than 4000 m. Kalpeshwar is situated in the beautiful valley of Urgam. There is a cave temple here, and Shiva is worshipped in his matted hair form.
Kalindikhal Trek
Gangotri - Bhojwasa - Nandanvan - Vasukital - Khara Patthar - Kalindi Base - Rajparav - Ghastoli - Badrinath
Duration: 12 days
This trek is for the more adventurous and for those with some fundamental knowledge of mountaineering. It is an extension of the Nandanvan Trek, eastward to Ghastoli and then to Badrinath via Kalindikal pass (5967 m). A special tariff applies to this trek. The trek takes you from Nandanvan to Vasukital after due acclimatisation.
From Vasukital to Mana, the trek falls in the 'inner line'. Note: Please apply for necessary permissions at least one and a half months in advance.
Gangotri - Nandanvan - Tapovan Trek
Rishikesh - Uttarkashi - Gangotri - Bhojwasa - Tapovan - Nandanvan - Bhojwasa - Gangotri - Rishikesh
From Gangotri move along the beaten track towards Chirbasa, which offers a clear view of the Bhagirathi Peak. Beyond Chirbasa the terrain becomes really desolate - in fact, many trekkers refer to it as the "Arctic Tundra". From Chirbasa it's on to Bhojwasa. Gaumukh, the source of the sacred river Ganges, is just four kilometers ahead. From Gaumukh to Tapovan the ascent is steep. Nandanvan situated at the base of the Bhagirathi group of peaks, can be reached after crossing the Gangotri Glacier. It is an alpine meadow nestling in the shadow of the Bhagirathi peaks. From here, the Shivling Peak looks like an ice-cream cone rising towards the sky.
Dodital Yamunotri Trek
Covers: Rishikesh - Uttarkashi - Agora - Dodital - Seema - Hanumanchatti - Yamunotri - Barkot - Rishikesh
Duration: 9 days
Dodital, at an elevation of 3024 m above sea level north of Uttarkashi, has crystal clear waters surrounded by dense forests full of oak, pine, deodar, rhododendrons and wildlife. It provides an idyllic retreat for rest and recreational activities like angling, boating and bird watching.
From Dodital, it's a two-day trek to Hanumanchatti via Darwa Top.
On the way to Yamunotri near Jankichati, across the Yamuna, lies the beautiful village of Kharsali. It is home to the Pandas of Yamunotri. But this is not what the village is known for. It is the ingenious layout of the village and the two temples in the village square that have attracted the discerning traveler. Unlike most villages in the hills, it is not situated on a slope, and shows that lots of civic planning has gone into its layout. In the center of the village is the beautifully carved temple of Sumeshu. And on the edge of the village is the five-storied tower temple dedicated to Shani Dev, another name by which Sumeshu is known. The unique earthquake-proof architecture of the temple reminds one of the tower monasteries of Tibet. In the temple there are two huge pots, known as Rikhola and Pikhola, which are held back by chains. The villagers claim that on a full moon night, the pots try to run towards the river, hence the chains.
Valley of Flowers Trek
Covers: Rishikesh - Joshimath - Govindghat - Ghangaria - Hemkund Lokpal Sahib - Valley of Flowers - Badrinath - Rishikesh
Duration: 8 days
Long known to the local villagers of Bhundar Valley as Nandankanan, this enchanting place was discovered by T. G. Longstaff and Frank Smythe, by sheer chance, in 1931. The locals had feared venturing into the valley because of the spirits that were thought to be haunting it. The villagers feared that the spirits would carry them away. More than thousand varieties of flowers, ferns, and Himalayan herbs grow in the valley. The most beautiful of all Himalayan flowers, the Blue Primula, can be seen blooming in thousands. The best time to see the valley in full bloom is mid-July to mid-August. To reach the valley, trek from Govind Ghat on the route to Hemkund Sahib, upto Ghangaria, 12 km ahead. A few furlongs ahead of Ghangaria the trek route to the valley takes a detour towards the left. The valley is at a distance of five kilometers from Ghangaria.
Khatling - Sahasratal Trek
Covers: Rishikesh - Uttarkashi - Silla - Kushkalyani - Kyarki - Parital - Sahsratal - Kalyani - Kharsoli - Chowki - Khatling - Masartal - Mayalipass - Vasukital - Kedarnath
Duration: 16 days
The Khatling glacier is a lateral glacier, at the source of the River Bhilangana. Sahasratal and Masartal are on the west and east of it respectively. The Valley of Bhilangana affords a panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks and hanging glaciers. The Jogin group, Kirtisthamba and Meru are all sublime and magnificent. The entire trek passes through thick forests and beautiful lush green meadows in the beginning. Later, it crosses two passes above 17,000 ft. and negotiates glaciers, morains and a snow patch.
Har ki Doon Trek
Rishikesh - Sanli - Taluka - Osla - Har ki Doon - Osla - Sanli - Rishikesh
Season: Summer
Duration: 9 days
Har-ki-doon, the hanging valley of Gods is a treat for trekkers. This moderate trek takes you to one of the least explored regions of Garhwal. The best time to go for this trek is either June-July or October. During the rest of the year, the region is either very cold and wet, or the valley is mostly shrouded by clouds. The beautiful scenery and the glistening snow clad Swargarohini peak are the main attractions. As Har-Ki-Doon falls within the Govind Pashu Vihar, chances of seeing wildlife here are very bright. In September-October, chances of seeing wild flowers are also good.
Osia, one of the most beautiful villages in the Fateh Parvat region, should not be missed. Here, you have a beautifully carved temple dedicated to Duryodhana, the Kaurava Prince. And if you are interested in glaciers, then Jaundhar Glacier, at 4300 metres, is just five kilometers from Har-Ki-Doon. It is a steep climb and requires some mountaineering skills.
Roopkund Trek
Rishikesh - Mundoli - Wan - Bedni Bugyal - Bhaggubasa - Roopkund - Homekund - Sutola - Ghat
Duration: 10 days + 2 days to extend to Homekund
Roopkund is situated at a height of 5029 m in the lap of Trishul massif. The mystery lake of Roopkund has attracted many a besotted traveler since the discovery of human skeletons in the lake and the glacier descending into it. For many years the origin of the skeletons remained a mystery. Some thought it to be the remains of General Zorawar's army that lost its way while returning from Tibet. But the popular belief, narrated in the folk traditions about the pilgrimage to Nanda Devi undertaken by Raja Jasdhaval and his wife the Garhwali Princess Rani Balampa, who perished in a hailstorm at Jurangali, appears to be closer to the truth; especially since the carbon dating of the skeletons and its anthropological studies point towards the authenticity of this folklore.The lake, surrounded by rock strewn glaciers and snow clad peaks, is magnificent.
Uttarkashi - Lata - Budhakedar - Panwalikantha - Kedarnath Trek
Rishikesh - Uttarkashi -Belak - Budhakedar - Bhaironghati - Ghuttu - Panwalikantha - Triyuginarayan - Gaurikund - Kedarnath - Rishikesh
Duration: 10 days
This trek provides you with one of the rarest views of the entire range of Yamunotri - Gangotri - Kedarnath - Badrinath mountain peaks. In the process you pass through the seven bugyals of Panwali Kanth, where if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the blue mountain goats. This trek is part of the ancient pilgrim's trail from Gangotri to Kedarnath, in the tradition of vamvrata yatra that begins from Yamunotri and ends at Badrinath, after the paying of respects at the Gangotri and Kedarnath shrines.
Kalsi - Lakhamandal Trek
Rishikesh - Lakhamandal - Goraghati - Dungyara - Chaurani - Biratkhoi - Kalsi - Dakpathar - Rishikesh.
Duration: 7 days
Lakhamandal is a large village on the banks of Yamuna, known for its temple ruins. The ruins at Lakhamandal give an indication that in the past it must have been part of a major temple town. Many believe that Lakhamandal is the same Lakshagriha that is described in the Mahabharata. Kaurava Prince Duryodhana had built a lac palace here, in which he tried to burn the Pandavas alive. The villagers believe that there is a secret passage that emerges few kilometers downstream. Today the center of the village there is a temple dedicated to Bhagwati and Lord Shiva. In the temple complex stand two life size stone statues. Perhaps they are the dwarapals of a much older temple. This connects with the legend of Jay and Vijay, the dwarpals at the gates of heaven. But most of the villagers believe the statues to be those of Bhima and Arjuna. The best time to visit the temple is during the local Diwali, which is generally held one month after the Diwali in the plains.
This is a cultural and historical trek in the Jaunsar-Babar region, at the foothills of the stately Garhwal Himalayas, between Rivers Yamuna and Tons. The tribes here, known as Jaunsaris, practice polygamy as well as polyandry. The villages enroute are worth seeing, for their cultural and architectural richness. The trek is rich with flora and fauna and is an unforgettable experience for ornithologists.
Kuari Pass Trek
Rishikesh-Ghat-Ramni-Jhinjipani-Sinyar Toli-Dhakwani-Kuari Pass-Tali-Auli-Rishikesh
Duration: 9 days
Lord Curzon made the trek to Kuari Pass, and since then it has come to be known as Curzon's trail. The main attraction of Curzon's trail is the majestic view of the twin peaks of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, and Hathi-Ghodi Parvat. It is very popular with European and American travelers.
In 1905, Lord Curzon reached Kuari Pass from Ghat via Ramni. Today many trekkers prefer to undertake the trek in the reverse direction. They climb the ridge above Tapovan, and reach Gailgarh to meet the trail coming from Gorson. You can also reach Kuari Pass from Auli Bugyal through Borson Top. The trek should not be undertaken in winters, as a major portion of the trail is covered with snow. Along the trek are forests full of rhododendrons, oak, and deodar. Rare Himalayan flora and fauna abound. At Tapovan there is a massive sulphur spring, whose waters are said to have excellent medicinal properties.
Binsar Trek
Rishikesh - Pauri - Thailisain - Binsar - Piersain - Gairsain - Rishikesh
Duration: 7 days
Reach Thailisain via Pauri, which is an enchanting hill station presenting a panoramic view of the stately Garhwal Himalayan peaks. From Thailisain, the trek trails through very rich forests of deodar, silver fir, pine and oak, all teeming with wildlife.
Nagtibba Trek
Covers: Rishikesh - Pantwari - Nagtibba - Devalsari - Thatyur - Mussoorie - Rishikesh
Grade: Soft Trek
Season: Round the year
Duration: 6 days
Nagtibba, as the name suggests is the abode of the Nag Devta (Snake God). The shepherds of the Aglar Valley on the north side of Mussoorie hills, known as Jaunpur, come to this ridge top to worship the Nag Devta. Nagtibba offers an excellent view of the mountain peaks in all directions. To reach the top you have to pass through dense forests, and it is advisable to take a guide, lest you get lost on the way. There is enough space for camping in the meadow, and the water source is nearby. Nagtibba can be climbed from two sides. Most trekkers prefer the Pantwari side, which has a beautiful village symbolizing the culture of Jaunpur. From here begins the climb to the Nagtibba top. You can get down on the other side to the village of Devalsari. From here the road at Thatyur is not far away. You can also take the trek in the reverse direction, climbing from Thatyur and coming down to Pantwari.
Devi Darshan Trek
Rishikesh - Chandrabadni - Chamba - Surkanda Devi - Dhanaulti - Kunjapuri - Rishikesh
Duration: 4 days
The trek is for those who wish to see the Himalayan ranges but do not have the inclination for tougher treks. Three 'Siddh Peeths' - Chamba, Surkanda Devi and Kunjapuri, are on top of hills in a triangular form, named after Goddess Durga. From each temple the others are visible and present a panoramic view of the mighty Garhwal Himalayas and the Doon Valley. Each temple is approachable by motor and by short treks of an hour each from nearest motor heads.
In the Tons and Yamuna valley woodcraft has reached its pinnacle. Wood is the medium through which the people of the region fulfill their creative urge. The wooden houses and the temples dedicated to Mahasu and Sumeshu abound in decorative details that recreate the myths and the socio-cultural past of the region. The decorative motifs include beautiful depiction of the flora and fauna of the Himalayas. The multistoried wooden houses employ a unique architectural design known as kham that has proved to be earthquake proof. The range is wide including gable-roofed, composite roofed, and canopied-circular roofed structures. There are even multi-storied tower and pyramidal structures. The wooden temples standing in the middle of a meadow symbolize the spirit of man and the heavenly beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
Chandrashila Winter Summit Trek
Rishikesh - Ukhimath - Devariya Tal - Chopta - Tungnath - Chandrashila - Ukhimath - Rishikesh
Duration: 7 days
This popular trek can be undertaken round the year, except during December and January when there is heavy snowfall. Chandrasheela Summit is a rock face above the temple of Tungnath, the highest of all the temples in the Himalayas. It is a short but rigorous hike beyond the temple. The Chandrasheela Summit affords the most beautiful view of the Nandadevi, Trishul, Kedarpeak and Chaukhamba peaks. If the sky is clear you feel that you are sitting in a sea of mountains. The oak forest through which you trek to the summit abounds in wild life especially foxes, peasants, musk-deer and leopards. Nonetheless, it is safe, as the animals keep away from the trail. Begin at Chopta - one of the most mesmerizing Alpine meadows in Garhwal Himalayas with excellent camping opportunities. In the month of March, if you get lucky, as you climb from Ukhimath to Chopta, you might even spot rhododendron flowers in shades varying from crimson red to white.
Bhadraj - Jwala Devi - Kempty Fall Trek
Dehradun - Mussoorie - George Everest - Jwala Devi - Bhadraj Temple - Kempty Falls - Dehradun
Duration: 5 days
The legend of Nanda is an integral part of the socio-cultural milieu of Uttarakhand. Shrines of Nanda Devi are scattered all over the central Himalayas. To the hill-folk, Nanda, also known as Gaura, is the out-married daughter (Dhyan) of the family. Every year, in the month of Bhado i.e. 2nd week of April, she comes visiting her mother's home (Mait). And during Nanda Ashtami, she is escorted back in a procession to her husband's home in Kailash. Such processions, known as Jats, are taken out every year from Nanda Devi Temples at Krishna and Dasholi, and the Doli of the Devi is taken up to Bedni Bugyal. Once every twelve years, when miraculously a four-horned ram is born, Nanda Devi Raj Jat is taken out from Nauti. It is the longest pilgrimage of its kind in the world. From Nauti the parasols of Nanda Devi Raj Jat is taken out from Nauti. It is the longest pilgrimage of its kind in the world. From Nauti the parasols of Nanda Devi are carried on foot to Homkund, at the base of Nanda Ghunti, covering a distance of about 280 km, and crossing the height of 17500 ft at Roopkund. The four-horned ram leads the Jat and after reaching Homkund, is said to disappear miraculously in the mountains.
This trek has been specially crafted for the beginner and combines elementary trekking with some sightseeing and picnicing thrown in. The climbs are not too difficult, and offer ample opportunities to soak in the sights and sounds of the hills.
Rishikesh - Auli - Kuari Pass - Tapovan Trek
Rishikesh - Auli - Tali - Bagerbudda - Kurari Pass - Tapovan - Joshimath - Rishikesh
Duration: 7 days
As you approach Kuari Pass through the Auli - Gorson meadows, at an elevation of 4265 m, you will be in the heart of Chamoli District, in the north eastern part of Garhwal. From Gorson, the imposing view of the eastern peaks of Garhwal Himalayas is unforgettably enchanting. They appear so near, you feel that you can reach out and touch them. The Nandadevi peak is visible from Kuari Pass.
Yamunotri Pass - Ruinsiara - Har ki Doon Trek
Duration: 13 days
The trek to Ruinsiara Tal can be taken from either the Har-ki-Doon side or from the Yamunotri side. From Osla, follow the trail that goes along a stream, until you reach a glacial rivulet that passes through boulders, and leads into a birch forest. Turn left and the Ruinsiara Tal will be on your left. The lake is hidden between a small ridge and the left wall of the valley. There is enough space to camp here, and there are even rock shelters to protect you from the surprise shower. The trail goes further up to the Bandarpunch Base Camp, from where you can enjoy an excellent view of the famous Bali Pass. The trek en route from Yamunotri Pass, situated 12 km ahead of Yamunotri, goes through dense forest and is somewhat difficult compared to the route from Osla to Ruinsiara.
All these routes can be combined with river rafting journey on one of India’s premier rivers. Add 3-4 days to trip.
Trekking Tips
The pair of two legs that are going to help your dream come true, need a special attention. A hike or trek is successful only when completed without injury. The success of the adventure mainly depends on whether your feet will carry you through your journey. Care and maintenance will make it easy.
1. Trim those nails - short and straight across
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Sharp nails will cut up your socks
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Long nails will jam into the front of your boots
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Jagged nails can result in a case of ingrown toenail
Keeping the nails clean and in proper trim will make walking comfortable. Hard and stubborn nails can be trimmed by soaking the feet in a mild solution of warm soap water for about 10 minutes before trimming.
2.Keep them clean
A long walk will result in the sweating of the feet. This will create a damp, warm medium for the growth of bacteria and fungus that can cause cracking, sores, infection and pain
Wash the feet with soap (carbolic soap is preferred) and water to prevent these possibly disabling conditions. Dry the feet thoroughly afterwards.
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Massage them
Whenever you feel that your feet can take some rest, massage them to keep the circulation going. It will also help the skin to breathe freely
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Lance it with a needle sterilized in a flame
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Disinfect it. (Always carry disinfectant solution on an outdoor trip)
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Cover it with duct tape (or bandage it with sticking plaster)
Removing sticking tape is tricky. To help it come off easily, soak the feet in warm water till the adhesive comes loose. Peel the tape off carefully after taking due care not to snare any hair in it.
Following these simple tips during the trek will ensure that your feet will carry you all the way without hurting.
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