Ruinsara Lake

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The Tons valley is situated in the western ranges of the Garhwal Himalaya trekking in Uttaranchal amidst thick deodar and pine forest and is a relatively unspoilt area. The Ruinsara Lake is a secluded serene haven surrounded by glittering peaks. Being part of the Govind Vihar sanctuary the area is rich with Indian Wildlife and is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. The villages along the way have very distinctive wooden carvings adorning their houses. Ruinsara Lake is nestled under the Swargrohini Range and the area is associated with Hindu mythology. This route holds a historic significance as it is part of the legendary epic Mahabharata. The heroes (the Pandavas) are said to have roamed in this area during their fourteen years of exile. This is an easy and one of the most popular treks in the Garhwal Himalayas. A number of options are available to extend this trek over high passes into Himachal Pradesh or other valleys in Garhwal. This trek along the Tons River valley is surrounded by high mountains and dense forests.

Day 01:

Delhi to Lunagad Camp (1120m) Overnight train and 6 hrs drive.

On arrival in dehradun we will board the waiting vehicles and drive to Camp Lunagad to arrive for lunch by 2pm. Welcome drink over camp briefing, check into tents and relax.

Day 02:

Lunagad to Bheduka(1815m). 2 hrs drive and trek 3-4 hrs.

Start early after the morning breakfast. Drive from Camp to Sankri which is 2 hours away. Trek from Sankri to campsite which is just beyond the village of Taluka and is 3-4 hours away (1800m). From Taluka, the trail descends to the river valley and continues through the forest on the true side of the valley. In spring, there are plenty of Gujar (pastorals with buffalo herd) camping as they make their way to the higher pastures at the head of the valley. Reach camp by afternoon. Unwind, relax, have the evening meal and stay overnight at camp.

Day 03:

Bheduka to Dev Thach (3000m) 6-7hrs

Trek to Dev Thach which is a large alpine meadow. The path continues winding through the forest until the village of Osla appears on the opposite side of the valley. The main trail bypasses Osla leading straight to a row of teashops and a forest rest house known as Seema (2500m). Walk for an hour to the beautiful meadow. Stay overnight at the camp.

Day 04:

Dev Thach to Ruinsara Lake (3350m) 3-4 hrs

The trail leads through mixed forest and meadows of forget-me-nots and buttercups. The valley broadens halfway to the lake and crosses a series of flowered meadows where shepherds from the nearby villages graze their flocks in the summer. Ruinsara Lake holds a sacred meaning for the surrounding villages. It is above the main valley floor on the true side, surrounded by alpine pastures and low rhododendrons beneath the fascinating Swargarohini Range.Camp.

Day 05:

Ruinsara lake to Dev Thach

A relaxed day to laze around and appreciate the magnificent view of the snow-clad peaks of the Swargarohini or walk towards the base camp of Banderpunch Peak to catch a close-up of the magnificent mountain. Return to camp for an early lunch and proceed down to camp at Dev Thach.

Day 06:

Dev Thach to Bheduka (1815m) 6 hrs

Enjoy a long walk down to the campsite of Bheduka.

Day 07:

Bheduka to Lunagad (1120m) 3-4 hrs

Trek from Bheduka to the road head at Taluka. Drive for 2 hours to reach Lunagad and camp.

Day 08:

Lunagad to Delhi

After breakfast leave for Dehradun to board the train back to Delhi. Reach Delhi by night.

Package Includes:

- Pick up from the Airport / Railway Station

- Breakfasts, lunches and dinners

- Airport transfers

- Group medical kit

- Good quality accommodation

- Trek pack including sleeping bag, down or fiber filled jacket and insulated mat

- Private transportation

- All park entrance fees and trekking permits

- Porters to carry all personal and group equipment.