About Kalindikhal Trek

Set at an altitude of 5,947 meters, the Kalindikhal Pass on the base of Kalindi Peak. It is also at an elevation of 6,102 meters. It’s surrounded by several other snow clad mountains is the world’s highest trekkable mountain pass. The journey also en route Kalindikhal Pass unfolds some of the majestic peaks of the Indian Himalayan range. From the cluster of 6 thousanders, the Shivling at 6,543 meters, Meru at 6,630 meters, Kedar Dome at 6,808 meters, Bhagirathi I, II and III at 6,512 meters, 6,454 meters and 6,856 meter respectively, Nilkantha at 6,506 meters, Chandra Parvat at 6,728 meters and Avalanche Peak at 6,413 meters are also some of the prominent ones along the trek to Kalindikhal Pass.

From the group of 7 thousanders, the Mt. Kamet at 7,756 meters, Mt. Mana at 7,272 meters and Abi Gamin at 7,355 meters are visible during a bright sunny day. Further, the trail cuts through several small gushing streams and passes through the alpine meadows and forest enriched with wide range of Himalayan trees and varied species of Himalayan animals and birds. Finally a steep climb leads to dangerous glaciers, which are above 5,000 meters in height like the Suryala Bamak and Sweta. The trek to Kalindikhal Pass also covers some of the high altitude lakes of India, the Vasuki Tal at 4,800 meters approximately and Arwa Tal at 3,910 meters.

The Kalindikhal Pass trek, which is one of the toughest treks in the Indian Himalayan belt. It also located in the Garhwal Himalaya, requires acclimatization and prior high altitude trekking experience. Most of the trail goes through a thick bed of snow and cuts through several glaciated and narrow tracks. The trek involves the use of ice axe, crampons and fixed rope and thus it is one of the adventurous journeys in the Garhwal Himalayan region.

The Kalindikhal Pass trek commences from the Bhagirathi Valley, from an altitude of 3,048 meters at Gangotri, which is one of the major Hindu pilgrimage sites. From Gangotri the trail leads to Bhojbasa, which is at an elevation of 3,792 meters, cutting through a thick alpine bed dotted with wide range of Himalayan trees. Thereafter the trail snakes through the rocky terrain to reach Gaumukh at 3,890 meters. Gaumukh is the mouth of the Gangotri Glacier and the origin point of River Ganga. From Gaumukh the trail winds upward to Tapovan, one of the high altitude meadows at an elevation of 4,463 meters and is a picture perfect campsite with the Bhagirathi group of peaks at the backdrop with crisscrossed bubbling streams and dotted with wild flowers.

Herds of Bharal (blue mountain goats) are a common sight from here on steep mountain edges. From Tapovan, the journey continues towards Vasuki Tal via Nandanvan, cutting through the glaciated tracks of Chaturangi and glimpse of Meru and Bhrigupanth. From Vasuki Tal the trail starts further strenuous as it steps on to the thick bed of snow and heads to Suralya Bamak at 5,480 meters followed by Sweta at 5,500 meters. Thereafter a gradual climb to Kalindi Base and thence further upward climb to the summit of Kalindi. The downhill trail follows to Arwa Tal at 3,910 meters and thereafter leads off at Mana village via Ghastoli. The Kalindi Pass trekking tour later wheels to Rishikesh enroute Badrinath.

Kalindi Khal Tour Highlights

  • Get an opportunity to visit prime Hindu pilgrimage sites like Gangotri and Badrinath
  • Savour sights of lofty Himalayan Mountain Peaks like Bhagirathi, Shivling, Bhrigu Parbat
  • Climb up along the hulking high Chaturangi Glacier
  • Witness the beauty of alpine lakes and lose yourself in its serenity
  • Add to your record, the scaling of 6000m Himalayan Pass
  • Witness the gorgeous meadows of Tapovan and the origin point of River Ganga, Gaumukh

Best Time to Visit

Best time to travel to Kalindikhal trek between summers (mid June) and Monsoon (July to early September).

Summers:

The weather of Kalindikhal Trek remains pleasant during summers. The Himalayas are distinctly visible and the cool breeze adds charm to the ambiance.

Monsoon:

The rainfall enhances the beauty of the trek. The forest and meadows become lush green and the flowers outgrow in number. The weather remains moderate and pleasant.

Important Note:

  • The best time for this trek is between Mid June to Early September
  • The inner line permit is a must for touring in this region.
  • Permit will be issued from District Forest Officer (DFO) Uttarkashi & District Magistrate (DM) Uttarkashi.
  • The copy of the permit, list of the trekkers and guide, cook & porters and the photos should is verified by District Administration of Chamoli (DM of the district and SDM of Joshimath) as well as In Charge of the ITBP camp at Ghastoli as after Gangotri that is the only human settlement.
  • All Trekkers, Guide, Porters, Cook & Helper also go through medical tests
  • All trekkers, Guide, Porters, cook & Helper must be insured
  • All Trekkers, Guide, Porters, Cook & Helper must be well equipped with the adventure gear like tents, sleeping bag, snow shoes, gloves, rain proof jacket etc.
  • Carrying of Identity card is mandatory
  • Book the trek with registered organizations only

Inclusions
star hotel Accommodation
transport Transfer
Meals
Sightseeing