Kalindikhal Trek is an extremely challenging expedition-style traverse of the Kalindikhal Pass (5967m) in spectacular Garhwal Himalayas. The route involves a trek over rough glaciers, rocky screens and crevassed snowfields. At times we need to roped up and require the use of ice axes and crampons. Kalindi khal trek takes you half way round Garhwal from the Bhagirathi Valley to the Alaknanda Valley. Although prior climbing experience is not required, this trip is one of our most demanding treks suited to only those who want to join a reconnaissance style expedition. The trek starts from Gangotri and takes you through Nandavan, the base of the Bhagirathi peaks, a place that offers an unparalled view of the Shivling peak. After gaining suitable acclimatization we ascend to Vasukital Lake, a stunning place to camp surrounded by towering snow-covered peaks. From here we climb on to Sweta Glacier and begin the challenging crossing of the Kalindikhal Pass. A tough climb from where you feel that there is little else left to be see. It is as if you are a part of this majestic setting of snow peaks. The trail then descends to Arwa tal and to Mana the last village on the Chinese frontier. The trek fittingly ends at Badrinath with a visit to the holy temple and then travel via Rishikesh to Delhi. Area: Garhwal Himalayas Altitude: 5967Mts. Grade: Moderate to tough Season: June & August - Mid September
• Train: AC Train from Delhi - Haridwar & back
• Transport: By Privet car or mini coach or tempo Traveller as per group size in Noon A/c. from Haridwar to Gangotri & back
• Accommodation: Hotel in Rishikesh, Uttarkashi and Guest House in Gangotri on breakfast basis. While on trek we will provide you Dome/Alpine trekking tents on twin sharing basis. Camping mattresses, mess tent, dining tent, camping stool, table, toilet tent etc would be provided.
• Meals: Breakfast at Rishikesh, Uttarkashi and Gangotri while on trek all meal will be provided. All meals will be freshly prepared and will be a mix of Indian, Chinese & Continental.
• High Altitude Porters: For carrying camping equipment, rations, vegetables and some amount of personal gear of the clients (one bag not weighing more than 15 kgs).
• Professional local trekking guide and kitchen staff would accompany the group
• Entry fee for the park
• Trekking permit fees
Day 1: Delhi - Haridwar - Rishikesh
In the morning take AC train from Delhi to Haridwar at 06:50 hrs. Arrival at Haridwar by 11:25 hrs and meet our guide, then drive to Rishikesh by car. Upon arrival at Rishikesh met our representative and check in to hotel. Evening visit sightseeing tour of Rishikesh and Ganges ceremony Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2: Rishikesh - Uttarkashi (152 kms/5-6 hrs)
Morning after breakfast proceed for Uttarkashi (1150 mt), which takes 7-8 hrs drive. Upon arrival check-in at Hotel. Evening free to explore the surrounding by your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Uttarkashi is the principle town in the region. Nehru Institute of Mountaineering is situated here. It is also the gateway to many mountaineering and trekking expedition in Gangotri area.
Day 3: Uttarkashi - Gangotri 4 hours drive
In the morning drive (100 km) to Gangotri (3048 m). Gangotri is the place where the Goddess Ganga descended on earth from heaven. Its also the road head for the trekking in Gangotri valley. Visit the temple of Goddess Ganga. Overnight stay in Hotel.
Day 4: Gangotri - Bhojbasa 5 -6 hours trek
Trek 14 km to Bhojbasa (3658 m) following the river Bhagirathi on right bank. The trek is gradual ascent for most of the part. From Bhojbasa you can have majestic view of Bhagirathi group of peaks. On arrival set-up camp for overnight stay.
Day 5: Bhojbasa - Nandanvan / Tapovan 6 hours trek
Trek to Nandanvan (4500 m) via Gaumukh - the source of river Ganges. From Gaumukh climb over to Gangotri glacier and trek along it following right bank. Nandanvan is the base camp for climbing Bhagirathi group of mountains.
Day 6: Nandanvan - Vasuki Tal 5 hours trek
Morning trek (11 km) along Chaturangi Glacier to reach Vasukital (4898 mts) Vasuki Tal is base camp for Mt Satopanth and Mt Vasuki Parbat with a small lake. The trek is steady ascent till Vasuki Tal. On arrival set-up camp for overnight stay.
Day 7: Vasuki Tal - Khara Pathar (Suralya Bamak) 5 - 6 hours trek
Morning after breakfast trek to Khara Pathar (5456 mts.) (Suralya Bamak) 8 Km from Vasukital. Overnight stay in the camp.
Day 8: Khara Pathar
The day is for rest/acclimatization/exploration. One can explore the surroundings around the area. The place is full of photographers delight. Dinner and overnight in stay in the camp.
Day 9: Khara Pathar - Kalindikhal Base 5 -6 hours Trek
Morning after breakfast trek 10 Km to reach Kalindikhal Base at Sita Glacier (5500 mt). The trek follows Chaturangi glacier. On arrival set-up camp for overnight stay in the camp.
Day 10: Kalindikhal Base - Rajaparav 7 -8 hours trek
Todays trek is most challenging with steep climb to Kalindi Pass (5967 mt). Spend some time at the spot and then trek down to Rajparav (4910 mt). The descent from the pass is very steep over glacier and ice walls. On arrival at Rajparva, set-up camp for overnight stay.
Day 11: Rajparav - Arwa Tal 6 -7 hours trek
Morning after breakfast trek (13 km) to reach Arwa Tal (3910 mt). The trek follows Arwa Bank glacier for most of the time before reaching Rajparva. Overnight stay in tented camp.
Day 12: Arwa Tal - Ghastoli 6 -7 hours trek
Trek (16 km) to reach Ghastoli (3796 km). The trek is gradual descend following Arwa Nala. Overnight stay in tented camp.
Day 13: Ghastoli - Mana - Badrinath 5 - 6 hours Trek and 1 Hours Drive
Morning after breakfast trek (16 km) to reach Mana village. Mana is last village in this valley. From Mana drive 3 km to Badrinath. Badrinath is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage place. One of the four Dham in the Himalayas, the temple at Badrinath is dedicated to lord Vishnu. On arrival check-into hotel for overnight stay.
Day 14: Badrinath
Witness the puja (prayer) at Badrinath Temple in the morning. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in hotel.
Day 15: Badrinath - Joshimath
In the morning drive to Joshimath (46 km). On arrival check-into hotel. In the afternoon, proceed for excursion to Auli. Auli is a large high altitude meadow and a famous ski resort during winter. it offers excellent view of Nanda Devi mountain range. Return back to hotel for overnight stay.
Day 16: Joshimath - Rishikesh - Haridwar 8 -9 Hours drive
Morning after breakfast drive (257 km) down to reach Rishikesh. On arrival Haridwar. Explore the area and transfer to Railway station to Board train for Delhi. Dep: 1810 Hrs. Dinner on Board. Arrive New Delhi 2230 hrs. Tour Terminates.
Not included:
• Any charges for carrying still/video cameras etc.
• Alcohol, soft drinks, bottled water, beverages, etc.
• Personal expenses like tips, telephone calls, laundry, etc.
• Any meals/services not mentioned above
• Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances like landslides, road blocks, bad weather, etc.
• Travel insurance
Cost of the Trip:
INR 88049/- per person (for a minimum of 04 - 05 Pax)*
INR 81649/- per person (for a minimum of 06 - 07 Pax)*
INR 78549/- per person (for a minimum of 08 - 09 Pax)*
Personal Trekking Equipments List:
1. Trekking boots - well broken in and waterproofed
2. Down jacket or equivalent with hood
3. One heavy wool shirt or sweater, Two cotton shirts
4. One pair cotton trousers or shorts, One pair woolen trousers
5. One pair shorts or calf-length skirt for women
6. Three pairs of regular underwear, Long underwear - thermal or wool
7. Wind- and rain-gear with hood, Sun hat with brim
8. Woolen hat or balaclava, Woolen gloves
9. Woolen socks to wear with boots, Cotton socks
10. Personal first-aid kit including medication for common ailments
11. Flashlight with extra batteries
12. Sunglasses or snow goggles (an extra pair is recommended)
13. Water bottle, preferably wide mouthed, with at least one liter capacity
14. Plastic bags - small size for books, film etc., larger bags for clothes, sleeping bags
15. Well fitting strong shoes with a couple of woolen socks. The shoes should be used before treks to avoid blisters.
16. First aid set for minor accidents and sickness.
17. A raincoat is necessary to meet uncertainties of weather.
18. Chocolates, lozenges, candies, glucose and dry fruits provide extra pep and energy.
19. It is advisable not to exhaust energy by walking fast, as otherwise the trek will be not enjoyable.
