Snow Treks in Auli

hi guys recently went on this trek and me writing a bunch of words won't do the experience justice so for your convenience, I have made a Short documentary on my entire experience first hand and here is the, Youtube link -> https://youtu.be/DKE2fM_sRBM

"Roopkund is a beautiful trek with heart-filling views throughout the trek. You travel from forests to meadows to rocky areas to snow in a matter of 4 days with landscape changing every day. Trek though tiring is worth trying even for beginners & first timers (like me). You just need to follow the trek leaders' guidelines and nothing can stop you from reaching the summit. Everything was decently arranged by Thrillophillia & UTT (local agency whose part we were). The only downside was that our group size was large around 28 people and we were mostly running behind the schedule. Food was okay, you can really not expect a lot when in mountains.Prepare for the trek in advance and if possible keep a day extra in reserve. Carry spare clothes and prepare for rain extensively because the weather in the bugyals & beyond is very unpredictable and you should be ready for everything. Must do trek. All the Best...."

The awesome journey started from the station Kathgodam itself where we could see the ubiquitous Pine and Fir trees that we had seen previously only in TV. We had a warm welcome from the UTT staff in Lohajung where we plucked some peaches and relished along with the briefing. We met the trek leaders, cook, support staff and fellow group members with whom we were to live like a family for the next 7 days. Along with the heavenly environment, the people with their simple ways won permanent place inside us. On the 2nd day we trekked to Didna village via Kuling - 12 kms stretch, half road and other half mountains and valleys. The family who had given us home stay in Didna village welcomed us with Rhododendron drinks. By this time natural spring water had been inveterate to us. Next day trek was to Bedni Bugyal via Ali Bugyal, the most beautiful and largest meadows of Asia - 12 kms stretch. For the first time I saw real snow before my eyes when Mount Trishul and Nanda Ghunti came in front of us. We faced heavy rainfall along the way where the ponchos and waterproof shoes became handy and saved us the whole trek. Next day was a 4 km trek to Pathar Nachauni. Each place has its own fascinating fable and folk lore described to us by the Trek leaders - Raghu, Rajat, Pradeep, Uday, etc. Next was another 4 km trek to Bhagwabasa where a little AMS started to peek in and temperature dropped steeply. Folowing early morning 0300 hrs, we started on the steep 3km trek to Roopkund crossing land, waterfalls, snow and ice; and it was all heavenly out there when we could see the ice covered lake with snow surrounding it like a white glass. We returned to Bhagwabasa the same day by evening. And next day descended to Lohajung via Wan village - 12 kms. Now having returned it feels, some part of our lives could never come back from those mountains.

We are a group of 5 without prior trekking experience. Although it's rated as an easy trek, I assume its moderate difficulty. By the end of the first day we get to see snow here and there and on the third day, all we could see is just snow. You will get to trek in woods, snow and on the verge of valleys. We got to see a frozen lake which is completely surrounded by mountain ranges, it's just a breathtaking view that you could never forget. We made to the top of Kuari Pass on the 3rd day. The journey involves trekking at 2-3 feet snow. While trekking the downhill, it's pointless to count the number of times you slipped (although you will enjoy it!). Overall, it will be an amazing winter trek. If this is your first trek, I would recommend being positive on stretching your limits and not to mention get all possible medicines along with you. Cheers :)

Kuari Pass is an easy trek, but challenging nonetheless. The first 2 days of the trek were like a walk in the park. The challenge mounted on the 3rd day, the day of Kuari Pass, when one needs to trek in knee-deep snow. Our Crew was amazing and very hospitable. Our guide made the whole trip very adventurous. He taught us snow sliding, finding routes, spotting peaks, and identifying clean streams of water. I was never bored with his narration of folklore. A warm and adventurous personality! We had the best cooks! The food they served us in the mountains was better than the food in the best restaurant in Joshimath. And they were very conscientious of the food they made. Changing the menu as per the requirements of the day, so that we are fresh and active all the time! Thank you Manish and Sohan :) I cannot recommend this trek enough. Astounding and humbling views, fresh air, face off with the elements of nature and a life altering experience!

Thought to be a easy trek in the beginning but it became challenging as we kept acenting. One of the best trek for scenic beauty. The trek wouldn't be easy without proper support of staff. Food was truly delicious and nutritious. Cant expect such amazing tasty food even at ground level. Trek leader had well Knowledge of Pass, nearby peaks and basic medicines. All the arrangements from very beginning to the end was all perfect. Just a recommendation to the crew to carry extra sleeping bag and a tent. Crew was more like a friend and family then just a crew. It is truly said that distance is best measure in friends rather than miles. A lifetime remembering experience....:-)