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Dhakuri Chiltha Top Trek
Region
Kathgodam
Duration
5 Days
Max Altitude
2680 mtr
Trekking
27 KM
Grade
Moderate
Overview
The Dhakuri Chilta Top Trek is an enchanting journey through the heart of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, offering trekkers an unparalleled blend of serene landscapes, dense forests, and majestic mountain views. Starting from Kathgodam, this five-day trek takes participants through picturesque villages, winding trails, and high-altitude meadows. The trek’s highlight, Chilta Top, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and valleys. Suitable for trekkers of all experience levels, this adventure provides a perfect mix of cultural immersion and nature exploration.
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathgodam to Bageshwar
- Altitude: 950 m
- Driving Distance: 190 km
- Duration: Approx. 7 hours
Day 2: Bageshwar to Kharkiya to Dhakuri
- Altitude Gain: 950 m to 2,650 m
- Driving Distance: 62 km (approx. 3 hours)
- Trek Distance: 3.5 km
- Trek Duration: Approx. 3 hours
Day 3: Dhakuri to Chilta Top Summit and Return to Dhakuri
- Altitude Gain: 2,650 m to 3,350 m
- Trek Distance: 7 km (round trip)
- Trek Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Day 4: Dhakuri to Kharkiya to Bageshwar
- Trek Distance: 3.5 km (descent)
- Driving Distance: 62 km
- Duration: Approx. 3 hours trek + 3 hours drive
Day 5: Bageshwar to Kathgodam
- Driving Distance: 162 km
- Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Day 1: Kathgodam to Bageshwar
- Altitude: 950 m
- Driving Distance: 190 km
- Duration: Approx. 7 hours
- Route Highlights: The journey begins early in the morning from Kathgodam, a key transport hub in Uttarakhand. The drive takes you through the scenic towns and villages of the region, offering glimpses of lush green valleys, terraced fields, and pine forests. Arriving in Bageshwar by evening, trekkers can explore the historic town, known for its temples and the confluence of the Sarayu and Gomti rivers. Overnight stay in a guest house with basic amenities.
Day 2: Bageshwar to Kharkiya to Dhakuri
- Altitude Gain: 950 m to 2,650 m
- Driving Distance: 62 km (approx. 3 hours)
- Trek Distance: 3.5 km
- Trek Duration: Approx. 3 hours
- Route Highlights: After breakfast, a short drive from Bageshwar takes you to Kharkiya, the starting point of the trek. The initial trek passes through lush oak and rhododendron forests, gradually ascending to Dhakuri. Trekkers will witness stunning views of the snow-capped peaks as they approach the Dhakuri meadow, known for its serene atmosphere and traditional guesthouses. Spend the night at a comfortable campsite or guesthouse in Dhakuri.
Day 3: Dhakuri to Chilta Top Summit and Return to Dhakuri
- Altitude Gain: 2,650 m to 3,350 m
- Trek Distance: 7 km (round trip)
- Trek Duration: Approx. 6 hours
- Route Highlights: Begin the day with an early morning trek to Chilta Top. The trail is moderately challenging, winding through thick alpine forests and steep sections that open to expansive meadows. Upon reaching the summit, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and surrounding Himalayan ranges. After spending time soaking in the stunning scenery and capturing photos, head back to Dhakuri for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Dhakuri to Kharkiya to Bageshwar
- Trek Distance: 3.5 km (descent)
- Driving Distance: 62 km
- Duration: Approx. 3 hours trek + 3 hours drive
- Route Highlights: After breakfast, begin the descent from Dhakuri to Kharkiya. This easy trek retraces the route through forests and villages. From Kharkiya, a drive takes you back to Bageshwar for the final night, offering a chance to relax and reflect on the trek’s experiences.
Day 5: Bageshwar to Kathgodam
- Driving Distance: 162 km
- Duration: Approx. 6 hours
- Route Highlights: On the final day, drive back to Kathgodam, enjoying the scenic journey through the Kumaon landscape. The trek concludes upon arrival at Kathgodam, leaving trekkers with cherished memories of their adventure.
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 best time to undertake this trek is from April to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the views are clear.
The trek is moderately challenging, so a basic level of fitness and prior trekking experience is beneficial, but not mandatory.
Yes, water can be refilled at natural streams and guesthouses along the route. Meals are provided at camps and guesthouses as part of the trek package.
Accommodation includes basic guesthouses and tents at Dhakuri, with essential facilities provided.
Limited network connectivity is available at Bageshwar and Dhakuri. However, most parts of the trail may have poor or no signal.