↜ Experience the beautiful Kumaon Himalayas ↝
Pankhuwa Top Trek
Region
Uttarakhand
Duration
5 Days
Max Altitude
12300 Ft.
Trekking
50 KM
Grade
Moderate
₹ 11,000 /Person
+5% GST
Overview
The Pankhu Bugyal Trek is a captivating journey into the lesser-explored terrains of Uttarakhand, offering trekkers a mix of lush forests, high-altitude meadows, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Starting from Kathgodam, this five-day trek takes participants through the scenic village of Khati and up to the pristine meadows of Pankhu Bugyal, renowned for their panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. Ideal for trekkers seeking a serene experience away from the more crowded trails, this trek is a harmonious blend of nature, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathgodam to Khati
- Altitude: 2,210 m
- Driving Distance: 212 km
- Duration: Approx. 11 hours
Day 2: Khati to Bajeling Dhar
- Altitude Gain: 2,210 m to 2,950 m
- Trek Distance: 6 km
- Trek Duration: Approx. 4 hours
Day 3: Bajeling Dhar to Pankhu Bugyal
- Altitude Gain: 2,950 m to 3,390 m
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Trek Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Day 4: Pankhu Bugyal Summit and Return to Jhuni Village
- Altitude Change: 3,390 m to 2,280 m
- Trek Distance: 6 km
- Trek Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Day 5: Jhuni Village to Kathgodam
- Driving Distance: 210 km
- Duration: Approx. 10 hours
Day 1: Kathgodam to Khati
- Altitude: 2,210 m
- Driving Distance: 212 km
- Duration: Approx. 11 hours
- Route Highlights: The trek begins with a long drive from Kathgodam, winding through scenic mountain roads and picturesque villages. The route offers views of terraced farms, dense forests, and the flowing rivers of the Kumaon region. Arrive at Khati, the last village on the trail to Pindari Glacier, known for its welcoming community and simple homestays. Rest overnight in a guesthouse in Khati.
Day 2: Khati to Bajeling Dhar
- Altitude Gain: 2,210 m to 2,950 m
- Trek Distance: 6 km
- Trek Duration: Approx. 4 hours
- Route Highlights: The trek from Khati to Bajeling Dhar is a moderate ascent through dense oak and rhododendron forests. Trekkers will pass by small streams and hear the sounds of birds as they make their way up. Bajeling Dhar offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Overnight stay is in tents, with the evening spent under the clear starlit sky.
Day 3: Bajeling Dhar to Pankhu Bugyal
- Altitude Gain: 2,950 m to 3,390 m
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Trek Duration: Approx. 5 hours
- Route Highlights: This leg of the journey leads to the highlight of the trek, Pankhu Bugyal. The trail is a mix of gradual and steep ascents, with the landscape transitioning from forested paths to open meadows. Pankhu Bugyal is a sprawling alpine pasture, offering panoramic views of the towering Himalayan peaks. The serene atmosphere and vast greenery make it an ideal spot for photography and relaxation. Overnight camping at Pankhu Bugyal, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Day 4: Pankhu Bugyal Summit and Return to Jhuni Village
- Altitude Change: 3,390 m to 2,280 m
- Trek Distance: 6 km
- Trek Duration: Approx. 5 hours
- Route Highlights: Begin the day with a short ascent to the summit point of Pankhu Bugyal to witness the sunrise over the mountains. After soaking in the views, start the descent towards Jhuni Village. The trail back is a mix of descending paths through meadows and forests. Jhuni Village offers a glimpse into local life, where trekkers can interact with villagers and enjoy a cozy homestay experience.
Day 5: Jhuni Village to Kathgodam
- Driving Distance: 210 km
- Duration: Approx. 10 hours
- Route Highlights: After breakfast, drive back to Kathgodam. The return journey allows trekkers to reminisce about the trek’s highlights and the beauty of the region. Arrive at Kathgodam by evening, marking the end of the 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 ideal time for the Pankhu Bugyal Trek is from May to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasant and the meadows are lush.
The Pankhu Bugyal Trek is moderate, suitable for beginners with basic fitness as well as experienced trekkers.
Network connectivity is available in some parts, especially at Khati, but it is limited or non-existent in higher-altitude areas.
Accommodation includes guesthouses in villages and tented camps at higher altitudes.
Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, a first aid kit, and sufficient snacks and water bottles.
Gallery
Trek Route
