↜ Experience the beautiful Kumaon Himalayas ↝
Brijganga Pass Trek
Region
Kumaon
Duration
10 Days
Max Altitude
4666mtr.
Trekking
95 KM
Grade
Difficult
Overview
The Brij Ganga Dhura Pass trek is an exhilarating journey through the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. This trek offers adventurers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and challenging terrains. The trail takes you through dense forests, remote villages, and high-altitude passes, providing panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the surrounding valleys. With altitudes reaching up to 4,666 meters, the trek is both demanding and rewarding, making it ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a thrilling adventure in the Himalayas.
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathgodam to Munsyari
- Highest Altitude: 2,150 meters
- Travel Duration: 10-12 hours by road
Day 2: Munsyari to Lilam (by vehicle) and Trek to Panto Village
- Trek Distance: 6 km
- Trek Duration: 4 hours
- Altitude: 2,150 meters
Day 3: Panto Village to Lingurani
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 8 hours
- Altitude: 2,915 meters
Day 4: Lingurani to Kiltam
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 8 hours
- Altitude: 3,450 meters
Day 5: Kiltam to Upper Marjhali
- Trek Distance: 11 km
- Trek Duration: 7 hours
- Altitude: 3,970 meters
Day 6: Upper Marjhali to Brij Ganga Pass and Descend to Sumdu
- Trek Distance: 9 km
- Trek Duration: 8-9 hours
- Highest Altitude: 4,666 meters (Brij Ganga Pass)
- Altitude at Sumdu: 3,400 meters
Day 7: Sumdu to Railkot
- Trek Distance: 9 km
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Altitude: 3,230 meters
Day 8: Railkot to Bogdiyar
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 7 hours
- Altitude: 2,450 meters
Day 9: Bogdiyar to Rargari and Drive to Munsyari
- Trek Distance: 4 km
- Drive Distance: 35 km
- Drive Duration: 4 hours
Day 10: Munsyari to Kathgodam
- Travel Duration: 10-12 hours by road
Day 1: Kathgodam to Munsyari
- Highest Altitude: 2,150 meters
- Travel Duration: 10-12 hours by road
The journey begins with a drive from Kathgodam to Munsyari, a quaint town nestled in the heart of the Kumaon region. The drive takes you through picturesque landscapes, including lush green valleys, winding mountain roads, and small hill towns. Munsyari, located at an altitude of 2,150 meters, serves as the base for the Brij Ganga Dhura Pass trek. Upon arrival, take time to acclimatize and explore the local surroundings.
Day 2: Munsyari to Lilam (by vehicle) and Trek to Panto Village
- Trek Distance: 6 km
- Trek Duration: 4 hours
- Altitude: 2,150 meters
On the second day, a short drive takes you from Munsyari to Lilam, the starting point of the trek. From Lilam, you begin your trek towards Panto Village. The trail is relatively easy, winding through dense forests of pine and oak. As you trek along the banks of the Gori Ganga River, you will be treated to mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains. The day ends with an overnight stay in Panto Village.
Day 3: Panto Village to Lingurani
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 8 hours
- Altitude: 2,915 meters
The trek from Panto Village to Lingurani is a bit more challenging, with the trail gradually ascending through thick forests and crossing several streams. The dense vegetation provides shade and a cool environment, making the climb more manageable. As you gain altitude, the landscape begins to change, offering glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance. Lingurani is a remote hamlet where you will set up camp for the night.
Day 4: Lingurani to Kiltam
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 8 hours
- Altitude: 3,450 meters
Day 4 involves a steady climb from Lingurani to Kiltam. The trail takes you through alpine meadows, dotted with wildflowers, and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The higher altitude and thinning air may make the trek more strenuous, but the breathtaking vistas make it worth the effort. Kiltam, situated at 3,450 meters, is a small campsite where you can rest and prepare for the next day’s ascent.
Day 5: Kiltam to Upper Marjhali
- Trek Distance: 11 km
- Trek Duration: 7 hours
- Altitude: 3,970 meters
The trek from Kiltam to Upper Marjhali is one of the most scenic parts of the journey. As you ascend, the trail opens up to expansive views of the Himalayan range, including peaks like Panchachuli and Nanda Devi. The path is dotted with small streams and patches of snow, adding to the adventure. Upper Marjhali, at nearly 4,000 meters, offers a perfect spot to camp under the stars, with the towering peaks serving as a magnificent backdrop.
Day 6: Upper Marjhali to Brij Ganga Pass and Descend to Sumdu
- Trek Distance: 9 km
- Trek Duration: 8-9 hours
- Highest Altitude: 4,666 meters (Brij Ganga Pass)
- Altitude at Sumdu: 3,400 meters
This day is the highlight of the trek as you make your way to the Brij Ganga Dhura Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,666 meters. The climb is steep and demanding, but the panoramic views from the pass are unparalleled. On a clear day, you can see the entire Kumaon range, with its majestic peaks and deep valleys. After spending some time at the pass, begin the descent towards Sumdu, where you will camp for the night.
Day 7: Sumdu to Railkot
- Trek Distance: 9 km
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Altitude: 3,230 meters
The descent from Sumdu to Railkot is a relatively easy trek, taking you through alpine forests and along mountain ridges. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and the distant snow-clad peaks. Railkot is a small village where you will spend the night, enjoying the hospitality of the local villagers and experiencing their unique culture.
Day 8: Railkot to Bogdiyar
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 7 hours
- Altitude: 2,450 meters
As you continue your descent, the trek from Railkot to Bogdiyar takes you through a mix of forested trails and open meadows. The altitude drops significantly, and you will notice a change in the flora and fauna as you enter lower elevations. The day ends at Bogdiyar, a small settlement where you can rest and recover from the day’s trek.
Day 9: Bogdiyar to Rargari and Drive to Munsyari
- Trek Distance: 4 km
- Drive Distance: 35 km
- Drive Duration: 4 hours
On the penultimate day of the trek, a short 4 km trek takes you to Rargari, where a vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Munsyari. The drive back offers a chance to relax and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. Upon reaching Munsyari, you can explore the town, visit the local markets, and enjoy a hot meal.
Day 10: Munsyari to Kathgodam
- Travel Duration: 10-12 hours by road
The final day involves a long drive back to Kathgodam. As you descend from the mountains, you’ll carry with you memories of the breathtaking landscapes, the challenging trails, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing the Brij Ganga Dhura Pass trek. The journey concludes in Kathgodam, where you can catch a train or continue your travels.
Things to Carry
Backpack with rain cover | (50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack with rain cover | 20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electoral/ors |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 2 Half sleeves |
Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Pair |
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 2 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | 1 Nos |
Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Sun Cap | 1 Nos |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. |
Buff | 1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen |
Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle, good grip) |
Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (We will provide when required) |
Micro spikes | 1 Pair (We will provide when required) |
Inclusion & Exclusion
- Meals during the trek
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges. Included only upto amount charged for Indian Nationals
- Tents, Sleeping bags, mats
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Trek guide, cook, helpers, porters & mules for carrying common luggage
- Services of a Certified Trek Leader
- Meals during road journeys
- Carriage of Personal Bags during the trek
- Any kind of Insurance
- Any expense of personal nature
- Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.
FAQ's
The ideal time to embark on the Brij Ganga Pass trek is from May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, offering clear skies and favorable trekking conditions. The monsoon season (July and August) should be avoided due to the risk of landslides and slippery trails, while the winter months can make the route challenging with heavy snowfall.
Pindari Glacier Trek is a 50 km long trek.
The trek is renowned for its panoramic views of majestic peaks like Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Panchachuli. Trekkers can also witness the serene beauty of remote villages, alpine meadows, pristine streams, and the sacred Brij Ganga Temple. The trail is rich in flora and fauna, with sightings of rare Himalayan species adding to the adventure.
For the Brij Ganga Pass trek, you should pack essentials such as sturdy trekking shoes, thermal layers, waterproof clothing, gloves, a sleeping bag, and a trekking pole. Additionally, don’t forget to carry a first aid kit, energy snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water purification system. A detailed packing list is recommended to ensure you are well-prepared for varying weather conditions.
Yes, acclimatization is crucial during the Brij Ganga Pass trek due to the high altitude. Trekkers ascend to over 4,500 meters, and proper acclimatization helps prevent altitude sickness. It is advisable to spend a few days at intermediate altitudes, follow a gradual ascent, and stay hydrated throughout the trek to adjust to the changing elevation.