The gradient of Pindari Glacier trek is easy to moderate which turns out to be one of the best-isolated treks in Uttarakhand.
It offers mind-blowing views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and it is a great pleasure to walk through forests of Rhododendrons with vibrant flowers lined up. This region is highly rich in Flora and Fauna; therefore, it is a treat for nature lovers.
During this trek, pass through some quaint villages with strong mythological stories and peek into the life of local villagers with a taste of their culture.
The Adventurous Trail of Pindarr Glacier
- Pindari Glacier trek has some thrills for the trekkers though the trail is easy to moderate.
- The thrills include crossing Dhakuri pass on the way to Pindari glacier which offers phenomenal views of towering Himalayan peaks that together makes Nanda Devi Sanctuary’s southern rim.
- The attractive water-bodies on the route are a real delight! Cross wooden bridges and spot cascading waterfalls that surely feast for the eyes.
- To reach Pindari glacier you have to pass through dense forests of Rhododendrons where you can easily spot a variety of Flora and Fauna. Crossing small streams and rivulets makes this trek a pretty adventurous one.
Why Choose Pindari Glacier Trek?
1. Pindari Glacier is perched in the remote Kumaon Himalayas and
it is one of the best-isolated treks in Uttarakhand.
Pindari Glacier trek is best for adventure and nature lovers.
During the trek, pass through quaint Himalayan villages and
peep into the lifestyle of villagers and their culture.
Also, get stunning mountain views.
The Dhakuri pass crossing with small rivulets and bridge crossing adds
adventure to this trek.
Pass through diverse landscapes and spot a variety of Flora and Fauna.
Pindari Glacieris one of the most accessible trekking glaciers amongst the others and attracts a large crowd of amature trekkers.Jam packed with variable terrains, exotic flora-fauna and easy in accessibility; Pindari GlacierTrek is nothing less than a dream to aspiring mountaineers. The trek view of this glacier establishes a fantastic view of the Nanda Devi and Nandakhot mountains.
- Experience the best of Pindari Glacier
- Get a panoramic view of many snow covered peaks like Nanda Devi and Nandakhot mountains visible form the top.
- Test your endurance limits both physically and mentally
- Zero point of this glacier is situated at a towering height of 3660m
- Encounter the charm and pride of Kumaon region through Pindari Glacier.
- View the lush green Landscapes of Pindari hills.
Some of the trek highlights
The gradient of the Pindari Glacier trek is easy to moderate, making it one of the best-isolated and family-friendly treks in Uttarakhand. It provides breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, and it is a joy to walk through forests of crimson Rhododendrons with vibrant flowers lined up.This region is abundant in flora and fauna, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. The trektraverses along the wilderness of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, offering impressive views of peaks like PanwaliDwar and Maiktoli.
The trail to the glacier passes through some quaint villageslike Saung and Loharkhet with strong mythological stories, then further crosses the Dhakuri Pass, and continues on to Khati (the last inhabited village on the trail). The trek finally concludes at Zero Point, Pindar. Despite the fact that the majority of the trail runs along the banks of the Pindari River, the river is mostly hidden until after Khati
Things to Look out for-
- The trek is certain to provide unrivalled feelings of accomplishment.
- Souvenirs fromKathgodam and Dehradun are great for memories.
- There are countless photogenic peaks, so we recommend that you prepare yourself for any aesthetic shoots. The best pictures are those taken under a blue sky with snow-covered peaks in the background.
- Experience the grandeur of the peaks like Nanda Devi and Maiktoli.
View during the journey
Top of the Zero Point of Pindari Glacier provides the views of high and mighty Nanda Devi and Nandkhot mountains.
Trekkers will be able to experience the exotic flora and fauna of the southern parts of Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
While on the trail near the Sanctuary, the mighty views of PanwaliDwar and Maiktoli peaks will follow trkkers.
Nearby places to visit
Trekkers are most likely recommended extending their stay at Kathgodam and explore the city. Sheetla Devi Temple, Kalichaud temple, Sat Tal and Hanuman Garhi are just some of the few places trekkers can visit in the city of Kathgodam.
While on their trek to Pindari Glacier trekkers can take time to explore the villages they will be crossing. The trail is perfectly laid with easy accessibility and small shops at every few points.
Pindari Glacier Trek Guide
Day 1 – Drive from Kathgodam to Loharket (180 km) (7/8 Hours) (5500 feet)
Day 2 – Drive from Loharkhet to Kahrkia and trek to Khati (04 km) (3/4 Hours) (7,300 feet)
Day 3 – Trek from Khati to Dwali (13 km) (6/7 Hours) (8,600 feet)
Day 4 – Trek from Diwali to Phurkia (05 km) (3/4 Hours) (10,500 feet)
Day 5 – Trek from Phurkia to Zero Point Pindari Glacier and back to Phurkia (16 km) (7/8 Hours) (12,300 feet)
Day 6 – Trek from Phurkia to Khati via Dwali (18 km) (7/8 Hours) (7300 feet)
Day 7 – Trek from Khati to Kharkia (04km) Same day Drive to Kathgodam (180 km) (7/8 Hours)
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 1 : Drive from Kathgodam to Loharket
Trek Distance – 180 km
Time taken – 7/8 hours
Altitude – 5,500 feet
Reach Kathgodam Railway Station on your own, vehicle will be arranged from there to reach Loharkhet. Have breakfast en route. The drive is through some beautiful places i.e. Bheem Tal, Almora, Bageshwar and Kapot.
Reach Loharkhet and the arrangements will be made in a guest house there.
Day 2 : Drive from Loharkhet to Kahrkia and trek to Khati
Total distance – 4 km (Trek)
Time taken – 3 hours (Drive) 2 hours (Trek)
Altitude – 7,400 feet (Loharkhet) 7,300 feet (Khati)
Have breakfast at Loharkhet and leave for Kahrkia, it is the last village on road and starting point of Pindari Glacier trek. From Kahrkia the trek starts to Khati which can be reached in an hour or two.
Go through beautiful trail full of Rhododendrons and Oaks on both the sides. Get pleasure to walk under the shade of trees, this dense forest is different from others because of its tranquil charm and vibrant colors. Reach Khati which is a great campsite because of the ravishing mountain views from there.
The high peaks visible from Khati are – Nandakot, Laspadhura and Nandabaner. Explore the area in leisure time. Have sumptuous food and settle for the day.
Day 3 : Trek from Khati to Dwali
Trek Distance – 13 km
Time taken – 6/7 hours
Altitude – 8,600 feet
Today is a long trekking day, so make sure you have enough breakfast to remain energized. Start trekking and after few steps come across the very first water point; a stream. The trail is a mixture of ascents and descents, be careful because some areas are slippery.
Look back and relish the beguiling sight of entire Khati village. Descent and see Dwali on opposite side of the river, from there the Pindari valley is visible towards the left and Kafni valley towards the right.
The Dwali village is meeting point of both the rivers; Pindari and Kafni. Setup your camps at the ground of Dwali and settle for the day.
Day 4 : Trek from Dwali to Phurkia
Total distance – 5 km
Time taken – 3 hours
Altitude – 10,500 feet
From Dwali to Pukhria the terrain snakes its way through the forest of Rhododendrons and Pindari River can be seen flowing below. On a clear weather day, lofty Nanda Devi and Mt. Nanda Khat are clearly visible.
Come across a wide meadow where the Himalayan Ibex are common to find. Ahead are some beautiful forests clearings which are beautiful enough to leave you awe struck!
Today, enjoy crossing glacial streams. Here the hard snow is also found in the months of April and May. Reach the campsite; Phurkia. Pitch your tents and retire for the night.
Day 5 : Trek from Phurkia to Zero Point Pindari Glacier and back to Phurkia
Total distance – 16 km
Time taken – 7/8 hours
Altitude – 12,300 feet
The trek to Pindari Glacier is a thrilling and adventurous one. Start the day young because you have to return and it will again take 3 to 4 hours. The trail offers scenic sights with just mind blowing clear views of Mt. Nandakhat on a clear weather day. Ahead snow patches appear, be careful because they remain slippery.
Have a look at snow covered peak of Mt. Bauljuri. The path is tricky towards the valley, so cross this section carefully and start climbing the ridge. From here, the Pindari Glacier on the left comes into sight with Changuch looming in the background.
With Pindari Glacier the whole snow clad Himalayan peaks shine in the glory. Now, plan you return soon. Retrace your steps and get back to Phurkia campsite. Descending takes less time. Reach the campsite and wait for the delicious food to be served then retire for the night.
Day 6 : Trek from Phurkia to Khati via Dwali
Total distance – 18 km
Time taken – 7/8 hours
Altitude – 7,300 feet
Today is the longest trekking day and may also be the tiring one. Phurkia is 18
km away from Khati.
Get down to Dwali and after a 4 to 5 hours hike from there reach Khati. Setup your camps there, relax! Wait for the sumptuous food and retire for the night.
Day 7 : Trek from Khati to Kharkia and Drive to Kathgodam
Total distance – 4 km (Trek) 180 km (Drive)
Time taken – 2 hours (Trek) 7/8 hours (Drive)
Khati to Kharkia, the distance is 4 km but the descent is easy so it can be covered in an hour or two.
Vehicles will be arranged from Kharkia to reach Kathgodam. The Pindari Glacier trek ends here.
The moderate journey of Pindari GlacierTrekwould precisely require a good camera concerning how good the views are. Because the top is relatively high in elevation, we strongly recommend a reasonable level of physical fitness.Weadvise trekkers to physically and mentally prepare themselves prior to this trek.
Any medical assistance that is required will be provided at any point of the journey; however, trekkers must consult their professional care before beginning any trek. We also strongly advise trekkers to learn about altitude sickness and to notify our teams as soon as any symptoms appear.
Is it safe?
Set amidst the high altitudes, concerns regarding Pindari GlacierTrek safety are indeed very valid questions. To brush off all the concerns we would like to confirm that the teams of Himalayan Hikers have calculated all the possible probabilities if anything goes off the schedule. All the new trails after the 2013 cloud burst have been repaired and completely furnished.
All of our professionals strive to provide the best experience possible for trekkers, so a collaborative contribution of a relaxed mindset and morally communicative behavior with fellow trekkers will be greatly appreciated.
Weather conditions
Weather conditions depend on the time of the year trekkers are travelling. Months from pre and post monsoon experience moderate temperatures during the day with substantially colder nights.
Easier trails with less confusing journey makes this trek a perfect summer and early winter trek. The weather during summers are quite favorable for trekking elevation and safer trails.
Both the ascent and the descent of Pindari Glacier are moderate in level as the trekkers hike forward. The best time to hike these paths is during the months of May to October. The unfavorable temperatures and precipitation make this trek a pre and post monsoon season trek. Temperatures typically range from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius during the day, with substantially colder nights.
If you are travelling from any metropolitan city in India or from outside India, getting to the capital city of Delhi may be the first and most important step. All major modes of transportation, such as air, road, and rail, can take you to Delhi.
Kathgodam is connected to most major cities in India via all chief modes of transportation. Trekkers could perhaps conduct extensive research for their direct mode of transportation to ensure a much smoother arrival.
How to reach Kathgodam from Delhi
By air– Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport to Kathgodam. It is well connected to Delhi with atleast 4 flights in a week. Cabs are easily available from the airport to Kathgodam.
By road-Delhi have direct road routes to Kathgodam. Trekkers will have to book either a bus or private cabs. Prior booking for cabs and bus are easily available at various sites.
Delhi>Kathgodam
By railway– Nearest Railway station to Kathgodam will be KathgodamRailway station. Since Kathgodam is connected to all major railway routes, trekkers can opt for a direct route or via Delhi.
.Some important points to note-
- Please note that we don’t provide timings schedules for transportation before Kathgodam. Subjected to various conditions the scheduled timings and availability of particular rides may differ. We recommend trekkers to reach out our teams for any queries. You can drop an email or call us for an initial guided session.
- Our teams will be collecting trekkers at fixed points of airports, railway stations and bus stands.
- It is recommended that unless any delay arrives, trekkers are advised to reach the destinations at least 2 hours prio
Connectivity and Transactions
1) Because connectivity along the route is unpredictable, we urge people to do all of their work ahead of time.
2) Trekkers will be provided with walkie- talkies beforehand in case of emergency
3) Last ATM transactions available will be at some stops after Kathgodam but we recommend travellers to collect cash beforehand or while in Kathgodam as ATM available at other places might not dispense cash at times.
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.
