↜ Experience the beautiful Kumaon Himalayas ↝
Sunderdhunga Glacier Trek
Region
Uttarakhand
Duration
7 Days
Max Altitude
12,621 Ft.
Trekking
35 KM
Grade
Difficult
Overview
The Sunderdhunga Glacier trek is a captivating journey through the lesser-explored regions of the Kumaon Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India. Known as the “Valley of Beautiful Stones,” Sunderdhunga offers trekkers an experience of pristine natural beauty, ranging from lush forests and sparkling streams to majestic glaciers and high-altitude meadows. This moderate to challenging trek is ideal for those looking to explore remote Himalayan landscapes and enjoy solitude in nature.
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathgodam to Khati
- Highest Altitude: 2,210 meters
- Drive Distance: 250 km
- Drive Duration: 10 hours
Day 2: Khati to Jatoli
- Highest Altitude: 2,440 meters
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Trek Duration: 4 hours
Day 3: Jatoli to Katheliya
- Highest Altitude: 2,900 meters
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 8 hours
Day 4: Katheliya to Baluni Bugyal Viewpoint and Back to Katheliya
- Highest Altitude: 3,800 meters
- Trek Distance: 8 km (4 km each way)
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
Day 5: Katheliya to Jatoli
- Highest Altitude: 2,440 meters
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 7 hours
Day 6: Jatoli to Khati and Drive to Bageshwar
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Drive Distance: 60 km
- Drive Duration: 4 hours
Day 7: Bageshwar to Kathgodam
- Drive Distance: 180 km
- Drive Duration: 7 hours
Day 1: Kathgodam to Khati
- Highest Altitude: 2,210 meters
- Drive Distance: 250 km
- Drive Duration: 10 hours
The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathgodam to Khati, the last inhabited village en route to the Sunderdhunga Glacier. This 10-hour journey takes you through the picturesque Kumaon region, offering views of lush valleys, terraced fields, and traditional villages. Khati, situated at an altitude of 2,210 meters, is a tranquil village surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks. Upon arrival, you can relax and acclimatize to the altitude while preparing for the trek.
Day 2: Khati to Jatoli
- Highest Altitude: 2,440 meters
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Trek Duration: 4 hours
The first day of trekking takes you from Khati to Jatoli, a small village nestled in the heart of the mountains. The trail is relatively easy, with a gradual ascent through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron. Along the way, you’ll cross several streams and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. Jatoli, at an altitude of 2,440 meters, is a serene stopover where you can rest for the night.
Day 3: Jatoli to Katheliya
- Highest Altitude: 2,900 meters
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 8 hours
The trek from Jatoli to Katheliya is more challenging, involving a significant altitude gain. The trail becomes steeper as you ascend through dense forests and rocky terrains. The lush greenery gradually gives way to more open landscapes, with occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks. Katheliya, located at 2,900 meters, is a peaceful campsite surrounded by towering mountains, making it an ideal spot to rest and acclimatize before the next day’s ascent.
Day 4: Katheliya to Baluni Bugyal Viewpoint and Back to Katheliya
- Highest Altitude: 3,800 meters
- Trek Distance: 8 km (4 km each way)
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
Today’s trek takes you to the Baluni Bugyal viewpoint, a high-altitude meadow offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trail is steep and demands a good level of fitness, but the effort is well worth it. As you climb higher, the vegetation becomes sparse, and the terrain turns rugged, with snow patches appearing along the way. At 3,800 meters, Baluni Bugyal offers a breathtaking vantage point to take in the beauty of the Himalayas. After spending some time at the viewpoint, you will descend back to Katheliya for the night.
Day 5: Katheliya to Jatoli
- Highest Altitude: 2,440 meters
- Trek Distance: 12 km
- Trek Duration: 7 hours
After exploring the high-altitude landscapes, you’ll begin your descent from Katheliya back to Jatoli. The trail is familiar, but the descent offers a different perspective of the beautiful surroundings. As you make your way down, the air becomes warmer, and the greenery becomes more abundant. Jatoli provides a comfortable stopover where you can rest and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
Day 6: Jatoli to Khati and Drive to Bageshwar
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Drive Distance: 60 km
- Drive Duration: 4 hours
The final day of trekking involves a short hike from Jatoli back to Khati. The trail is gentle, with a gradual descent through forests and alongside streams. Upon reaching Khati, a vehicle will be waiting to drive you to Bageshwar, a small town known for its ancient temples and scenic beauty. The drive takes you through the picturesque Kumaon region, offering a relaxing end to your trekking adventure.
Day 7: Bageshwar to Kathgodam
- Drive Distance: 180 km
- Drive Duration: 7 hours
The journey concludes with a drive from Bageshwar to Kathgodam. This 7-hour drive takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Uttarakhand, offering a final glimpse of the mountains and valleys you’ve explored over the past days. Upon reaching Kathgodam, you can catch your train or bus back home, carrying with you memories of an unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas.
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 Sunderdhunga Glacier Trek is often called the "Valley of Beautiful Stones," offering a diverse and rugged landscape. Unlike the more popular trekking routes in Uttarakhand, Sunderdhunga takes you through remote trails, with two distinct glaciers—Maiktoli and Sukhram—being major highlights. The trek provides a unique combination of stunning glacial views and the chance to explore isolated regions less frequented by trekkers.
The Sunderdhunga Glacier Trek is considered moderately difficult, with certain sections requiring endurance and stamina due to steep climbs and high-altitude terrain. Previous trekking experience is recommended, and trekkers should be physically fit to handle long hours of trekking in rugged conditions. Acclimatization is also essential due to the high elevation.
The best time for the Sunderdhunga Glacier Trek is from mid-May to early June and from September to October. These months offer the best weather conditions, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Trekkers can enjoy the best views of the glaciers and the surrounding peaks during these seasons without the risk of monsoon rains or extreme cold.
Yes, it is highly recommended to have a guide for the Sunderdhunga Glacier Trek. The trail is relatively remote and less marked compared to other popular treks, making navigation challenging, especially for first-time trekkers. A local guide will ensure you stay on the correct path and help with logistics like permits, campsites, and safety during the trek.
The Sunderdhunga Glacier Trek passes through areas rich in Himalayan flora and fauna. Trekkers may encounter species like the Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and even the elusive snow leopard in higher altitudes. The trail is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The dense forests along the trek are alive with biodiversity, adding to the trek’s natural allure.