Pindari Glacier Trek Highlights

  • Conquer the Pindari Glacier, the “Soul of Kumaon,” as you trek along glacial paths, marvel at ice formations & experience the untouched beauty of this Himalayan gem.

  • Feel the thrill of walking on a glacier at Zero Point and capture the most iconic view of the Himalayas from this legendary spot.

  • Follow the Pindar River Gorge, where waterfalls cascade down rugged cliffs and you might spot Himalayan Ibex grazing in Pindar valley.

  • Marvel at the towering peaks of Baljuri, Nanda Khat, Nanda Kot, and Changuch, creating a jaw-dropping Himalayan panorama.

  • Trek through oak and rhododendron forests, where vibrant red blooms and towering ancient trees create a fairytale-like setting. 

Pindari Glacier Trek Overview

Pindari Glacier Trek Itinerary

Day 1
Transfer from Kathgodam to Khati
Begin your thrilling Pindari Glacier Trek by boarding your transfer from Kathgodam Railway Station to Khati. Enjoy breathtaking views of lush valleys, dense forests, and cascading rivers along the way. Once you arrive in Khati, check in to your cozy homestay for an overnight stay.
Transfer in Bolero, Tempo Traveller or similar
Check-in at Homestay at Khati
1 Day
Check-in: 3:00 pm|Check-out: 11:00 am
  • You will get Homestay at Khati room.
    • Day 2
    Trek from Khati to Dwali
    Post check out, embark on a trek from Khati to Dwali, navigating through lush forests, scenic ridges, and challenging landslide zones. Descend to the Pindar River’s moraine banks, crossing rocky terrain before rejoining the trail through dense oak and rhododendron forests. Witness breathtaking valley views and hidden waterfalls, with the Dhauladhar peaks towering in the distance. Once you arrive in Dwali, check in to your camps & unwind by the bonfire under a starry sky.
    Activity: Trek from Khati to Dwali
    Starts at: 8:00 am

    Trekking Distance: 13 km | Duration: 7 hours | Elevation: 8,566 ft.

    • The trail from Khati to Dwali features six major bends, with portions damaged due to landslides. Trekkers must take alternative routes, descending to the Pindar River’s moraine-filled banks.
    • As you ascend, look back to enjoy a stunning bird’s-eye view of Khati Village, surrounded by lush greenery and towering peaks.
    • Several sections require trekking along the riverbanks, maneuvering through moraine fields and rocky mountain bends.
    • After ascending from the riverbed, you'll walk through a forest ridge, but locating the trail can be tricky due to dense vegetation.
    • One of the toughest sections involves crossing four sharp scissor bends and massive boulders before rejoining the ridge. 
    • The last two km include a steep ascent & a river crossing, which marks the final step before reaching Dwali.
    Check-in at Standard Camp
    1 Day
    Check-in: 5:00 pm|Check-out: 7:00 am
    Stay at a Standard hotel
    Day 3
    Trek from Dwali to Phurkia
    Post check out, begin trekking from Dwali to Phurkia, where the terrain gradually ascends through oak & rhododendron forests. Cross five streams, some of which may be frozen in April & May. As you climb, witness the Pindar River carving through a narrow gorge below and catch glimpses of Himalayan Ibex grazing near waterfalls. The trail opens into scenic meadows with rhododendron blooms, offering views of Mt. Nanda Khat and Nanda Devi East. Upon arrival in Phurkia, check in to your campsite.
    Activity: Trek from Dwali to Phurkiya
    Starts at: 8:00 am

    Trekking Distance: 5 km | Duration: 3 hours | Elevation: 10,465 ft.

    • Begin your trek while gradually ascending through dense oak and rhododendron forests, with views of the Pindar River flowing below in a narrow gorge.
    • Cross five streams along the way.
    • As you gain altitude, the trail features a series of forested switchbacks, offering panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and lush meadows along the way.
    • On a clear day, enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Nanda Khat and the pinnacle of Nanda Devi East, standing tall against the horizon.
    • You will encounter glacial formations along the streams.
    • Spot Himalayan Ibex grazing near mountain walls, with beautiful cascading waterfalls.
    • The trail takes you through a lush grassland and leads to another scenic meadow, where you will cross a glacial stream and witness stunning views of crimson rhododendrons overhead.
    Check-in at Standard Camp
    2 Days
    Check-in: 5:00 pm|Check-out: 7:00 am
    Stay at a Standard hotel
    Day 4
    Trek from Phurkia to Zero Point & Back
    Wake up early to witness the golden glow of snow-covered peaks around you. Begin your trek towards Zero Point, passing through meadows, rocky terrain, and icy trails with Mt. Nandakhat and Pindar River in view. Navigate challenging sections like the rockfall zone and spider wall crossings before reaching the Pindari Glacier summit. Admire the breathtaking views of Changuch Peak, Nanda Kot and the vast Himalayan expanse. Afterward, retrace your steps back to Phurkia & enjoy an overnight stay.
    Activity: Trek from Phurkia to Zero Point & Back to Phurkiya
    Starts at: 8:00 am

    Trekking Distance: 16 km | Duration: 7-8 hours | Elevation: 12,300 ft.

    • The initial 15-minute climb brings you to the first stream crossing, often covered in hardened snow.
    • Walk across the meadow, with Mt. Nandakhat dominating the skyline, while the Pindar River carves through a deep gorge on your left.
    • Arrive at Bhujani, then continue towards Zero Point, where you will walk on the Pindari Glacier and witness a breathtaking summit view.
    • As you reach the ridge, get the first glimpse of Pindari Glacier on the left, with the snow-covered Changuch Peak on the right.
    • Cross three vast ice fields, which can be difficult in April and May due to deep snow, slowing the trek. 
    • Follow the moraine ridge trail, climb up, and reach the Zero-Point summit, marked by a board. Enjoy panoramic views of Changuch Peak, Mount Baljuri and Nanda Kot before retracing your steps back to Phurkia.
    Day 5
    Trek from Phurkia to Khati Via Dwali
    Post check out, begin your descent from Phurkia to Khati, covering 18 km through the Pindar Valley. Trek down through forests of rhododendron and oak, crossing rocky paths & glacial streams. After about 2 hours, arrive at Dwali, where the trail flattens slightly before continuing further down. Pass through six landslide zones & walk along the Pindar River’s banks, with stunning mountain views. By evening, reach Khati village, the largest settlement in the region, and check in to your homestays.
    Activity: Trek from Phurkia to Khati via Dwali
    Starts at: 8:00 am

    Trekking Distance: 18 km | Duration: 7-8 hours | Elevation: 7,355 ft.

    • Begin your trek by descending through forests and rocky paths, reaching Dwali in about 2 hours. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you move lower in altitude.
    • Trek carefully through six major landslide zones, navigating through moraines, riverbanks, and forested ridges before reconnecting with the main trail.
    • After a long day, reach Khati village, the largest settlement in the Pindar Valley, and relax at the campsite, surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views.
    Check-in at Homestay at Khati
    1 Day
    Check-in: 5:00 pm|Check-out: 7:00 am
  • You will get Homestay at Khati room.
    • Day 6
    Transfer from Khati to Kathgodam
    In the morning, check out of your homestay and get driven to Kathgodam Railway Station, passing through the picturesque Kumaon hills. Upon reaching Kathgodam, you can begin your journey back home, marking the end of your Pindari Glacier trek.
    Transfer in Bolero, Tempo Traveller or similar

    Select Package Options

    Price Includes
    • First aid medical kits, stretcher and oxygen cylinder
    • Trek equipments: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent (twin sharing), kitchen & dinning tent, toilet tent, utensils and crampon (if required).
    • Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide, cook and Support staff
    • Permits
    • Stay
    Exclusions
    • Travel Insurance
    • Tips and Gratuities: Driver, Guide, and Hotel Staff
    • Costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, landslides etc.

    More Details about Pindari Glacier Trek

    Know Before You Go for Pindari Glacier Trek

    • Basic first-aid medical kits, oxygen cylinders, and oximeters are available during the trek to address emergencies.
    • Qualified and experienced Trek Leaders and support staff will guide and assist you throughout the trek.
    • Mobile network coverage is unreliable during the trek. Inform family and friends before starting your journey.
    • Vegetarian meals and tented accommodations on a sharing basis are typically provided during the trek. Common washroom facilities are available at campsites.
    • The Pindari Glacier trek is a moderate to difficult trek.
    • The highest point on the trek is 12,300 feet (3,750 meters) at the glacier. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatize properly before the trek and stay hydrated.
    • Weather can change quickly in the Himalayas. Expect chilly mornings and evenings, even in summer, and warm days with sunshine. Carry appropriate layers, including waterproofs.
    • Essential items include trekking shoes, warm clothing, rain gear, a sleeping bag, a water bottle, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and a camera for the stunning landscapes.
    • Prior preparation is essential for this trek. If you have any pre-existing health conditions, consult a doctor. Be prepared for long walking days, ranging from 5 to 10 hours.
    • Respect the local culture and traditions. The trek passes through remote villages where people follow traditional Kumaoni customs. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals.

    Pindari Glacier Trek Map

    Starting Point
    Kathgodam
    Kathgodam, Haldwani, Uttarakhand, India