13 August 2010

Various Treks In Uttarakhand Garhwal Himalayas

Kedarnath Vasukital Trek

Kedarnath is at an altitude of 3584m. A magnificent temple was built by the Pandavas at the base of Kedarnath peak’s south-eastern face, and millions of pilgrims now come to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva.
The trek starts from Gaurikund, where there is a hot water Sulphur Spring. While approaching kedarnath, one passes through forests and comes across some beautiful waterfalls en-route. Kedarnath to Vasukital is a continuous ascent, offering a great trek. The view of Chaukhamba peak and Mandakini Valley is wonderful from here.
Vasukital Lake is about ½ kms in radius with crystal clear water.

Panch Kedar Trek - High Altitude

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 rump of a bull.
Madhmaheshwar is situated at the base of Chaukhamba peak at an altitude of 3500m. Here the Linga is worshiped in the form of a navel. Tungath where the arm of shiva appeared is the highest temple in Garhwal and is situated at an altitude of 3810m. 500 meters above the temple of Tunganath is Chandrashila. The panoramic view of the Himalayas is breathtaking from here. Rudranath is where the face of shiva had appeared. Here there is a natural rock temple, in which the shiva Mukha is worshipped. To rach Rudranath, one has to trek through alpine meadows and dense forests, crossing an altitude of more than 400m.
Kalpeshwar is situated in the beautiful valley of Urgam. There is a cave temple here, and shiva is worshiped in his matted hair form.

Kalindikhal Trek - High Altitude

This trek is for the more adventurous; with a fundamental knowledge of the mountains. It is an extension of the Nandavan trek, eastward to Ghastoli and then to Badrinath via Kalindikhal pass [5967m] the trek takes you from Nandanvan to vasukital after due acclimatization. From vasukital to Mana, the trek falls in the ‘inner line’. Do remember to take necessary permissions.

Gangotri Nandawar Tapovan Trek - High Altitude

Gaumukh is where the waters of Ganga tricke down from the glaciers. The sages called it ‘Gaumukh’, because in the distant past, it probably appeared like a cow’s mouth; though today, it no longer appears so. From Gangotri you move along the beaten track towards Chirbasa, which is on the treeline. From here you can have a clear view of the Bhagirathi peak Beyond Chirbase the terrain becomes really desolate and barren. In fact, it has been referred to as the Arctic Tundra by many trekkers. From Chirbase you reach Bhojwasa. Gaumukh Glacier is just four kilometers ahead. To reach Nandanvan, you take a detour from Bhojwasa. Here, you get the first glimpse of shivlinga peak, like an ice-cream cone rising towards the sky. Nandanvan is another day’s-trek ahead. From Gaumukh to Tapovan the ascent is steep, and as you climb the view of the surrounding peak becomes clearer. They appear to be just a stones throw away. Nandanvan situated at the base of the Bhagirathi group of peaks, and can be reached after crossing the Gangotri Glacier. It is an alpine meadow nestling in the shadow of the Bhagirathi peaks.

Dodital Yamunotri Trek - High Altitude

Dodital is at an elevation of 3024 meters above mean sea level. North of Uttarkashi. Crystal clear waters are surrounded by dense Oak woods, pine, Deodar and Rhododendrones. The lake is full of fishes and rare species of Himalayan Golden Trout. The forest surrounding the lake is also full of wild life. It provides an idyllic set up for rest and recreation activites like Angling, Boating and Bird Watching. From Dodital, it’s two day trek to Hanumanchatti via Darwa Top. Darwa Top provides a majestiv view of Himalayan Ranges including Bandarpoonch, Kala Naag etc.

Valley of Flowers Trek

T.G Longstaff and Frank Smythe for the outside world discovered this enchanting place by chance in 1931, though the local villagers of Bhundar Valley knew it as Nandankanan since time immemorial. They feared venturing into the valley, because of the spirts and faires that were thought to be haunting the beautiful valley. They 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 in the valley. The best time to see the valley in full bloom is mid- july to mid August. To reach the valley one has to trek from govind Ghat on the route to Hemkund Sahib upto Ghangaria, 14 KMS ahead. Few furlongs ahead of Ghangaria the trek route to the valley takes a detour towards left. The valley is about five kilometers from Ghangaria.

Khatling Sahasratal Trek

The Khating 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 snow capped peaks and hanging glaciers. Jogin group, Kirtistambha and Meru are sublime and magnificent. The entire trek passes through thick forests and beautiful lush green meadows in the beginning. Later, it crosses 2 passes above 17000 ft. and negotiates glaciers, morains and a snow patch.

Har Ki Doon Trek

Har-ki-doon, the hanging valley of gods is a treat for trekkers. This moderate-difficult 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. The rest of the year 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 are very bright. In September-October, Chances of seeing wild flowers are also good.
Osla, 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 than Jaundhar Glacier is just about 8 Kilometers from Har-Ki-Doon. It is a steep climb and requires some mountaineering skills. The glaciers is situated at an altitude of 4300m.
   

Roopkund Trek

Roopkund is situated at a height of 5029 in the lap of trishul massif. This is usually called the ‘Mystery lake’ since human skeletons and remains of horses were found here the lake, surrounded by rock strewn glaciers and snow clad peaks are magnificent and enchanting.

Uttarkashi Lata Budhakedar Pawalikantha Kedarnath Trek

This trek provides you with one of the rarest views of the entire range of Yamnotri-Gangotri-Kedarnath-Badrinath mountain peaks. In the process you pass through the seven bugyals of panwali Kantha, where if you are lucky. You might catch a glimpse of blue-mountain-goat. This trek is part of the ancient pilgrims’ traill from Gangotri to kedarnath, in the tradition of vamavrata yatra that began from yamunoti and ended at Badrinath, after paying respects at the Gangotri and Kedarnath shrines.

Kalsi Lakhamandal Trek

This is a cultural and historical trek in the Jaunsar-Babar region, at the foothills of the stately Garhwal Himalayas; between the rivers Yamuna and tons. The tribes here, known as Jaunsaris, practive polygamy and 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

Lord Curzon made the trek to kauri pass, and since then it has come to be known as Curzon’s trall. It is very popular among European and American travelers. In 1905, Lord Curzon reached Kurzon reached kauri 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, where the trail coming bugyal through Gorson Top. The trek should not be undertaken in winters, as a major portion of the trail is covered with snow. The main attraction of Curzon’s trail is the majestic view of the twin peaks of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, and Hathi-Ghodi Parvat. Along the trek we’ll pass through pristine Rhododerndron, Oak, and Deodar forests. Rare Himalayan flora and fauna are aplenty on the trail. At Tapovan there is a massive sulphur spring. The wters of the spring are said to have excellent medicinal properties.

Binsar Trek

We reach Thailisain, via pauri, which is an enchanting township. From piersain and Binsar, a panoramic view of the stately Garhwal Himalayan peaks is visible. From Thailisain, the trek trails through very rich forests of Deodar, silver fir, Pine and Oaks; all brimming with wildlife. This trek is full of life and we can assure you will enjoy the scenic beauty throughout the trek.

Nagtibba Trek

Nagtibba, as the name suggests is the abode of the Nag Devta. The shepherds of the aglar valley on the northside 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 one has to pass through dense forest, and it 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 is 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 head at thatyur is not thatyur and coming down at pantwari.

Devi-Darshan Trek

The trek is for those who wish to see Himalayan ranges but do not have the inclination for tougher treks. Three ‘siddh peeths’ – Chandrabadni, Surkanda Devi and Kanjapuri, are on top of hills in a triangular from, 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. Each temple at the top of the hills, deeply inspires you to transcend into mediation and spirituality.

Chandrashila Winter Summit Trek

It is a popular trek that can be undertaken round the year. Except during heavy snowing months of December and January. Chandrashila 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 Chandrashila summit affords the most beautiful view of the Nandadevi, Trishul, Kedarpeak and Chaukhamba peaks. If the sky is clear you get the feeling that you are sitting in a sea of mountains. So, start early in the morning and you might be able to catch a clear sky. The Oak forest through which you trek to the summit abounds in wildlife, especially foxes, pheasants, musk-deer, and leopards. But it is safe, as the animals keep away from the trail. We begin at chopta, which is one of the most mesmerizing alpine meadows in Garhwal Himalayas, whats more; it also offers excellent camping opportunities. And if we’re here in the month of March, there are good chances that as we climb from Ukhimath to chopta we may get the rare opportunity to see Rhododendron flowers in shades varying from crimson-red to bright white.

Bhadrai Jwala Devi Kempty Fall Trek

This trek has been specially crafted for the beginner & combines elementary trekking with some sight- seeing and picnicking. The climbs are not too difficult, and yet offer ample opportunities to the young explorer to soak-in the sight and sounds that nature bestows these hills with.

Rishikesh Auli Kuari Pass Tapovan Trek

As we approach Kuari pass through the Auli – Gorson Meadows, at an elevation of 4265m, we 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 Himamalayas is unforgettable enchanting. They appear so near, that one feels like reaching out and touching them. The peaks visible from kauri pass are Nandadevi, Dunagiri, Bethartoli, Devasthan etc.

Yamunotri Pass Ruinsiara Har-Ki-Doon Trek

The trek to Ruinsiara Tal can be taken from either the Har-ki-Doon side of from the Yamunotri side. From Osla we follow the trail that goes along a stream, until we reach a glaciar rivulet that passes through boulders, and leads into a birch forest. Following the trail, as it tends to turn left, we’ll find the Ruinsiara Tal on our left. The lake is hidden between a small ridge and the left wall of the valley. There is enough space to camp here; we’ll even find rock shelters to protect us from that surprise shower. The trail further goes up to the Bandarpunch Base Camp, from where an excellent view of the Bali pass can be enjoyed. The trek route from Yamunotri Pass, situated 12 kms ahead of Yamunotri, goes through dense forest and is somewhat difficult compared to the route form Osla to Ruinisara.

Nandadevi National Park Trek

This is the last human inhabitation on this trekking route. Trekkers are given an exposure to their unique culture and customs of the region.
The first day of actual trekking is probably the toughest and invo9lves a steep ascent of almost 1524m, with a break at Belta. This stretch can be anything from 6 to 10 hrs. depending on the trekkers. However it is an excellent stretch for acclimatization. The next day, one wakes up at dawn to breathtaking view of Mount Bithartoli-Himal (6354m), Nanda Ghunti (6309m), Ranthi Peak (6003m), Dronagiri (7066m) and the vast view of Kuari pass, Auli Urgam Valley and lata village. The trek to Dharansi pass begins with a steep clim upto jhandi Dhar and further up to Bagfyana pass. From here the trail passes through a very narrow gorge of Satkula with steep ascents and descents and finally one arrives at the meadow of Dharansi.
On day 6, the beginning of the trail upto Doni Dhar is a gradual descent and then onwards to Debrugheta is a steep descent of 750m till one crosses to the improvised bridge over the stream.
The return trek takes a different rout from Handi Dhar, and goes on to Hitoli camp site. This stretch passes through rich forests of rhododendron, birch and ragafur.
Nanda Devi Nation Park, the greater area Containing the sanctuary and home to Bharals, snow Leapord, Musk Deer, Himalayan Deer and hundreds of species of birds, was closed for human beings in 1982 to protect its deteriorating bio-diversity. With no human intervention, the bio-diversity became richer and now, the NDNP has been declared a world heritage site. It has also been partially opened to a restricted number of trekkers. The visitors to NDNP can move only in groups and each group consisting of no more than 5 people. Not more than 2 groups are permitted in a day and no more than 4 groups permitted in a week. One registered guide will accompany every group of 5. The park is open from the 1st may to 31st October
It is mandatory for the trekkers to obey and observe all the provisions wildlife protection act inside the park area.

Adi Kailash Trek

Mount Adi Kailash also known as Chhota kailash, is an ancient holy place in the Kumaon Himalayas, quite similar to mount kailash in Tibet. It is situated close to the indo-Tibet border in pithoragarh district. The trek begins and ends at Mangti. The first five days of the trek are on the same route as the pilgrimage to mount kailash and Mansarovar. In the last village in this valley, kuti, one gets to see the Pandava fort, natural salt mines and intricately engraved doors and windows of the village houses. The last stretch up to Adi kailash also known as Jolingkong is only 14 kms from kuti. In close promimity os parvati Tal, with Shiv Parvati temple on its shore. This route offers breathtaking landscapes and panoramic view of the mountain ranges of kumaon Himalayas, the snow capped Api and Nampa, the gushing Kali river, Bhojpatra forests, the serene Narayan Ashram as well as numerous waterfalls.

Milam Glacier Trek

The base camp for Milam Glacier is Munsiyari [2290m], in Pithoragarh district. From Munsiyari, the trek to Lilam is mostly downhill along the Gori Ganga river. Enroute Bugdiyar to Riekot is a thickly forested area from where the land opens into the Gori Ganga valley. After crossing the Gori Ganga River, and below Burfu village, one gets an uninterrupted view of the nanda devi and Hardeol peaks, right upto Milam glacier. The Milam glacier summit at 3872m is the nodal point for a different high grade routes and peaks. The main peaks are Hardeol (7151m), Burphudhura (6215m) and Kalabulanddhura (6215m).

Dindari Glacier Trek

The most easily accessible glacier in the kumaon region, the pindari Glacier has a beauty of its own. Situated between the snow-capped Nanda Devi and Nanda kot Mountains.
As one trek along the route surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, every inch becomes a fresh song of nature and at every curve the eyes embrace a new landscape more beautiful than before, Reading the upper levels. The trees fall off, the pines cease and the road enters an enchanted garden of fern, wild flowers ands rhododendron. The glacier, over 3.2 kilometers in length and 1.5km broad, backed by mighty mountains, loom-up on the traveler with a gorgon gaze, leaving an indelible impression of grandeur, situated on the Nanda Devi and Nanda kote peaks, it extends from 3520m to above sea level, on an open, undulating piece of ground. To the east is a lofty moraine constituted of gravel, mud and blocks of snow embedded in ice a ground past, over the glacier, at a height of 5393 metres leads to the Trails’s pass. A trip to the Pindari Glacier is well within the capacity of any trekker, amply rewarded by magnificence of the mighty Himalayas. 

Kafni Glacier Trek 

Kafni glacier is situated on the left side of Pindar valley under majestic mountain Nandakot. This region has its own charm with the solitude it presents. This region is very rich in wildlife. There are no rest houses beyond Dwali and one has to spend nights in tents or caves. Main peaks near the glacier are Nandakot 6860 meters, Nandabhanar 6104 meters.

Sunderdhunga Trek

This valley is on the right side of Pindar valley. Sunderdhunga literally means valley of beautiful stones. The famous glaciers of this valley are maiktoli Glacier (6804 M) and Sukhram glacier and main peaks are Tharkot (6100 M), Mrigthuni (6856 M), Maiktoli (6804 M) and Pawali Dwar (6663 meters). The route to sunderdhunga is the same upto khati as is for the trek to Pindari and kafni.

Danchachuli Glacier Trek

From Jatoli upto Dhunia Dhaun, about 8Kms is a tough trek. One should spend the night in Dhungia Dhuan either in shepherd huts or in pitched tents. One hundred and thirty four kilometers from pithoragarh and 35 Kilometers from Dharchula is the last bus terminal sobla. From sobla to panchachuli Glacier is a 40-kilometer terk. The route to the glacier abounds in exotic scenery, snow-capped mountains, gushing streams, alpine meadows and a rich variety of flora & fauna. And from the glacier one can see the panchachuli peaks in their towering glory. On the final lap at village Duktu/Dantu one gets the majestic spectacle of panchachuli that derives its name from the five peaks, named after the legendary pandavas. The interesting part of this trek is that the trekkers will be sojourning in the traditional houses of the local people and will have a face to face interaction with the indigenous culture and local tradition.

Nanda Devi East Face Trek

Base is the most exciting Himalayan trek cum expedition. The trek goes along Gori Ganga river upto Reilkot. From here to Martoli is 7 Kms. The Nandadevi (East) Base Camp Situated at Bhiltalgwar (4350m) below Nanda Devi and one can see trail pass. Nanda Ghunti and Long Staff peaks. Nanda Devi base camp is about 63 kms from Munsiyari. Other route of Nanda Devi east face is 6 kms from Ganghar, which is 12 km fro Reilkot.

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