The Gradient is Moderate to Difficult of Darma Valley Trek
Darma valley trek starts from Sobla. Pass through Dar village and head towards Duktu and Dantu; the two adjacent villages through Sela and Baling.
The climbs are strenuous especially while crossing the glaciers, the gradient is moderate to difficult but the scenic vistas are rewarding.
Highlights of Darma Valley Trek
The alpine meadows of Duktu offers exotic sight of the Panchulli peaks.
Darma Valley Trek is famous for highly rich flora and adventures.
Pass through blooming meadows, small rivulets and some quaint villages. This all together is a delight for trekkers.
Some mythological tales are related to this divine valley.
Darma Valley Trek Guide
Day 1 – Kathgodam to Dharchula (9/10 hours)
Day 2 – Drive from Dharchula to Sobla (2 hours) and trek to Dar village (2134 m) (5 km) (3/4 hours)
Day 3 – Dar to Sela (2438 m) (12 km) (5/6 hours)
Day 4 – Sela to Baling (2743 m) (11 km) (5/6 hours)
Day 5 – Baling to Duktu (3048 m) (6 km) (3/4 hours)
Day 6 – Duktu to Panchulli glacier (4620 m) and back (8 km) (5/6 hours)
Day 7 – Duktu to Nagling (2743 m) (11 km) (5/6 hours)
Day 8 – Nagling to Bungling (12 km) Drive to Dharchula
Day 9 – Dharchula to Kathgodam (9/10 hours)
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 1: Kathgodam to Dharchula (9/10 hours)
The vehicle will be arranged from Kathgodam Railway Station and the departure time is 6:30 am. The drive is through Almora via picturesque valley of Kumaon.
Cross Joulijbi, see the confluence of River Gori with Kali River which crosses at Dharchula from India to Nepal.
Day 2 : Drive from Dharchula to Sobla (1670 m) (2 hours) and trek to Dar village (2134 m) (5 km) (3/4 hours)
The trail now is towards north past Dharchula and Tawa Ghat.
Then it diverts into a gorge; westwards, following River Dhauli Ganga till
Sobla which lies at an elevation of 1670 m.
Sobla is the entry gate of idyllic Darma Valley and is the starting point of
Darma Valley Trek.
Post breakfast the drive is towards Sobla, reach there in two hours and start trekking towards Dar village – today’s destination. It lies 5 km away from Sobla and can be reached in 3 to 4 hours. Pitch your tents here and retire for the night.
Day 3 : Dar to Sela (2438 m) (12 km) (5/6 hours)
The distance from Dar to Sela is 12 km and the gradient is easy. Pass through the hilly alpine pasturelands, see the cattle and flock of sheep grazing here.
To reach Sela go through the forest covers. The campsite is located on the outskirts of Sela. Set your camps there, wait for delicious food to be served and retire for the night.
Day 4 : Sela to Baling (2743 m) (11 km) (5/6 hours)
Sela to Baling is an easy trek and the trail goes up and then descends through hill sides. The altitude is gained on a moderate level today. Witness the distant views of glaciers and snow covered mountains which makes the hike scenic.
Reach Baling campsite, rest here in the tranquil charm and retire for the night.
Day 5 : Baling to Duktu (3048 m) (6 km) (3/4 hours)
The two adjacent villages are Duktu and Dantu, these are the
last villages on Darma Valley Trek.
Get excellent views of Panchulli peaks from here. A huge meadow lies on the
outskirts of Duktu which is perfect for admiring the spell binding views of
Panchulli glacier with Panchulli peaks looming in the background.
Pitch your tents here and retire for the night.
Day 6 : Duktu to Panchulli glacier (4620 m) and back (8 km) (5/6 hours)
Today is an adventurous day to explore the Panchulli glacier. The trek starts from Duktu. The glacier extends outwards from the East of Panchulli and 4 km trek.
Walk along the Yuli River and reach this huge glacier. It offers views of sprawling meadows with birch and oak trees on the sides and Panchulli peaks standing in the background.
Day 7 : Duktu to Nagling (2743 m) (11 km) (5/6 hours)
Start the descent today from Duktu to Nagling. The distance is 11 km which can be covered in 5 to 6 hours, the descent is an easy one through forest covers, sprawling meadows and some pasturelands.
You can see the shepherd with their flocks on the way. Reach Nagling, setup your camps there, have delicious food and retire for the night.
Day 8: Nagling to Bungling (12 km) Drive to Dharchula
Today is the last trekking day so make sure you enjoy to the fullest. Post breakfast, start the trek from Nagling to Bungling, it is a 12 km long trek.
The vehicle will be arranged from Bungling and then we will drive back to Dharchula. The arrangements will be there.
Day 9 : Dharchula to Kathgodam (9/10 hours)
Today the drive is from Dharchula to Kathgodam via Almora. The vehicles will be arranged. Post breakfast, leave early to reach Kathgodam on time.
Key Points of Darma Valley Trek
Level: Moderate to Difficult
Proper conditioning & training of body required
Need proper gear & clothing for sub-zero temperature
Shoes are the single most important equipment.
High Altitude requires proper acclimatization.
Beautiful landscapes so carry good photo gear & Extra battery backup.
Travel light
The backpack should not exceed 10 kgs.
Best Season – May, June, Sep and Oct
Starting point – Kathgodam
Mandatory Documents
Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc,)
Passport and Visa important to foreigners
Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker)
Declaration Certificates
Note: – Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry. It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.
Necessary Items for trekkers
Basic Trekking Gears
The Clothes You Should Bring On Satopanth Expedition
Head Gears
Foot Gears
Personal Care Essentials
Carry a Personal Medical Kit
Are you Looking for Trekking Equipment on Rent?
If any trekker requires trekking equipment on rent, Himalayan Hikers offers the best-quality gear available for rental. Many individuals are in need of such equipment, and renting provides a cost-effective solution, allowing them to access high-quality gear at an affordable price without the need for a significant investment for short-term use.
Trek Equipment You can book directly on first day at the Base Camp.
Note:-
Please take all medicines only when prescribed by the doctor. In case you face any problem during your trek,
discuss and take advice from the Professional guide.
The Trek is one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand, requiring both physical preparation and mental readiness. Although it is categorized as a moderate trek, reaches an elevation of over 12,720 feet and traverses remote Himalayan terrain, which can be physically and mentally challenging. Here's how you can prepare yourself for a safe and successful accomplishment of the Trek:
Physical Fitness
Building a good fitness base is essential for every trekker. The Trek itinerary involves 5 to 6 hours of walking every day. Though the trails are well-marked, they are often bumpy and include steep uphill sections, which may affect your stamina. You can overcome your physical limitation with a 6-week training program that you can begin about 2 months before your Trek. Your 6-week fitness routine should include
Pro Tip: If you have time, you can skip the Sunday training and go for a long-distance walk or mini day-hike (7–10 km) with a loaded backpack to simulate real trekking conditions. A short 1-day hike around your city/town can help a lot.
Mental Preparation
Physical strength is only half the journey, the other half is mental resilience. The trail takes you through remote clearings, steep climbs, cold starry nights, and no mobile connectivity. Be prepared to:
(I) -
Detach from the digital world.
(II) -
Embrace basic mountain living (camping, toilet tents, limited electricity).
(III) -
Push through moments of fatigue, weather discomfort, or altitude effects.
Himalayan Hikers is a reputable trekking company that places a high priority on safety. Here are some of the safety measures they take to ensure the safety of their clients during the Trek:
Experienced Guides: Himalayan Hikers hires experienced and certified guides who are well-versed in the terrain, weather conditions, and local culture. These guides have first-hand knowledge of the routes and are equipped to handle any emergency situations that may arise.
Proper Gear: The company provides all the necessary gear and equipment to their clients to ensure comfort and safety during the trek.
Hygiene and Sanitation: Himalayan Hikers places great emphasis on hygiene and sanitation during the Trek. They provide clean drinking water, hand sanitizers, and toilet tents to ensure that their clients are healthy and comfortable.
Emergency Services: The company has a well-defined protocol for handling emergency situations. They have a team of trained medical professionals who are available 24/7 and can be quickly mobilized in case of an emergency.
Acclimatization: Himalayan Hikers follows a gradual acclimatization process during treks to ensure that their clients adjust to the high altitude gradually. They also monitor the health of their clients regularly and provide necessary medical attention if required.
Overall, Himalayan Hikers places a great emphasis on safety and takes all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients during treks.
No FAQs available for this trek.
