Uttarakhand
An amphitheater for the entire Garhwal Range, Pangarchulla, at an altitude of 4,590M, is perfect if you want to get a real taste for the high mountains at a comfortably low altitude. With the right amount of challenge and awe-inspiring views, it has to be one of the few peaks which introduces you to difficulties other than those that come with altitude in the Himalayas. With giants such as Nanda Devi – India’s second highest peak, Kamet – India’s third highest, Dhronagiri, Hathi Ghoda, Chowkhamba, Mana, Neelkanth (to name a few) standing guard like iron knights, is it any wonder it stands confident and so sure of itself – making climbers sweat?
The trail for Pangarchulla and Kauri Pass remains the same up until the last day. As you are driving to Dhak which is the head trail for this astounding peak, you get an unobstructed view of Nanda Devi to your left and the crown of Pangarchulla to your right, sitting atop a dense forest thick with pine trees. It is a short trek which delivers a lot in its limited time of 6 days. From local towns to dust trails leading to vast open meadows, thick forests, pristine streams and rocky patches going into the white of the snow- the Pangarchulla trek introduces you to an assortment of terrain working all kinds of magic in a very short duration. Not to mention, the many reverential peaks that accompany you all throughout, all of which are soaked in historical relevance and mountaineering stories, alike.
We organizes transport for trekkers from Haridwar Railway Station in the morning which will leave for Sankri around 6:00 am to 7:00 am. Today start your journey with team Himalayan Hikers from Haridwar, The drive to Joshimath is 10/11 hours long, along the sacred rivers – Alaknanda, Mandakini and Ganga. Devprayag is en route at the confluence of river Bhagirathi and Alaknanda. This is beautiful place The journey won’t get boring because there are sudden changes in the scenery as you go further. Reach Joshimath base camp , relax in a hotel, in the evening you can explore nearby areas. Get back, have dinner and enjoy comfortable stay in the hotel.
Start early today and leave for Dhak village which is 12 km away from Joshimath, this is the starting point of Kuari Pass trek. Start the ascent and on the trail some shepherded huts are visible. Then trek through the forests of Oak, Deodar and Rhododendrons. Dhauli Ganga River flows below near the Hydro power plant, now you are about to reach a village named “Tugasi” trekking here would be a relief because the trail is leveled. Go further, reach a ridge and cross a descent to reach your campsite “Gulling”. It lies amid a forest and offers beautiful views of Chaukhamba peaks. Set your tents here, have dinner and retire for the 1st night at our camp site
Today you have to ascent all the way to Jangal camp, after breakfast get yourself prepared and start heading towards the campsite. Trek through the rough terrain and beautiful vistas will not leave your side throughout the hike. Enter the forest area with abundant trees of Pines, Oaks and Rhododendrons. Further find blooming flowers and snow with growth of Spruce and Silver Birch. After a long trek reach Jangal camp, your campsite for today, it is a mesmerizing forest clearing surrounded by variety of trees. After setting up your camps explore the area and then settle for the night
Today Start early in the morning around 4:00 am. Carry enough water with you because ahead are no water sources. Initial trek involves climbing a ridge which can take up to half an hour. After this ridge climb you will be rewarded by the view of Pangarchulla peak (15096 feet) and other high rising peaks. Ahead are levelled snow fields, now you will be needing ice axe to cut the thick snow and go further. Before you reach Pangarchulla base catch the delicious views of Hathi peak, Ghodi peak, Mana, Kamet and Chaukhamba peaks. Reach the base and start steep ridge climb. Use your equipment for summit climb, this will be the most difficult part of the trek because of heavy winds. After this tough section come to the peaks top and face the Garhwal snow peaks shining in glory The unbelievable views from Pangarchulla is the reason of its demand among avid trekkers. Now, start the descent to Jangal camp, it would take approximately 4 hours, be very careful while descending through ridges. Overnight stay at camp
Retrace your steps from Jangal camp to Dhak and again go through quaint villages. Bid goodbye to the snow peaks promising them a Hello again. Reach Dhak the starting and end point of the trek. From here vehicle will be arranged to get back to Joshimath. The arrangements will be made in a guest house or a hotel there.
Drive from Joshimath to Haridwar via Rishikesh by taxi Trek Distance –286 km – 9/10 Hours journey