Sankri is one of the quaint natives of Uttarakhand. The hamlet serves as the base camp for multiple Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand. Treks from Sankri are one of its kind to explore the Uttarakhand’s wildlife and terrain. The locals of Sankri are extremely warmly and hospitable. Thus, backpackers do not need to be hesitant in moving around this zone. Although there are uncountable treks in India, the Uttarkashi terrain will serve you with unforgettable memories.It is one of the best places to explore the unexplored Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand in particular and India in general. Sankri is a magical gateway into the wonders of Indian trekking.
The mountain ranges comprising Swargrohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag or Black peak, Gangotri, Yamunotri, are few of the many peaks and ranges that one sees while trekking the passes and valley of this region. In addition, alpine meadows, a myriad of terrains, interesting ascents and descents, exotic passes and valleys with enchanting flora and wild fauna, tricky narrow trails are many exclusive features when you plan one of the treks from Sankri.
Sankri to Dehradun and Dehradun to Sankri is a beautiful ten to twelve hours journey passing through the deep pine forests and exotic flora and fauna. Kedarkantha, Bali pass, Har ki dun, Rupin pass, etc. are few of the very popular destinations that observe the arrival of innumerable trekkers and backpackers.
The list in the order of their altitude, low to high, presents a holistic number of treks from Sankri.
Altitude: 11581 ft
Season: May-June; August to October
No of Days: 7 to 10
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Pushtar Bugyal is one of the rare treks in Uttarakhand and hardly offered by the trekking firms around. The trek has a base campsite of pristine Mori river. What is better than staying next to the brimming river and enjoying the morning chores in the free-flowing water! Terrace farms, wildflowers, mountain streams, local villagers performing their daily chores and top of the world view are few of the attention-drawing aspects of this easy to moderate trek in Himalayas.
Altitude: 11811 ft
Season: May-June; September- October
No of Days: 7
Difficulty: Moderate
Chainsheel Bugyal trek will offer you spectacular views of Deodar forests, an expanse of rhododendron and silver birch as a treat. The Chainsheel valley lies between the two states of Himachal and Uttarakhand. Apart from the ranges mentioned, one could also receive breathtaking glimpses of Pir Panjal, Kinnaur and Dhauladhar ranges. The unique selling point of this trek is that the route lets you enjoy a lot of waterfalls, natural pools, and rivers. Moreover, the Gujjar houses en route are an epitome of local architecture and aesthetics.
Altitude: 11975 ft
Season: March-June and September- December
No of Days: 7 to 8
Difficulty: Moderate
Ruinsaral tal is a terrific freshwater lake situated at the base of Mt Kalana or Black peak. Starting from Sankri, the Ruinsara Tal trek follows a similar trek route as that of Har Ki Dun trek and Bali pass. However, it deviates from the campsite of Seema. From then on it is at a distance of 14 km. As you reach the Ruinsara lake, you will observe some of the amazing Rhododendrons and multiple wildflowers like orchids, etc. The lake is deemed to be sacred by the residents of this beautiful valley. One of the mesmerizing and relaxing spots for camping, it also serves as a base camp for the Kalanag or Black peak.
Altitude: 12287 ft
Season: March to June; September to November
No of Days: 7
Difficulty: Moderate
The trek begins at the Rupin river and ends at the Supin river. Thus, the name of the trek as Rupin Supin. Besides, the lush green foliage that surrounds this river is one of the kind. A hardly explored trail, the trek is an offbeat one located in the northwest corner of Uttarakhand.
Altitude: 12467 feet
Season: April to June, September to December
Distance covered: 18 km
No of Days: 6 to 7
Difficulty: Moderate
Har ki dun is one of the most exotic valleys of the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand. While it is extremely beautiful in summers overlooking the flora and fauna of the Har ki Dun valley, it is also simply mesmerizing in winters. Har ki Dun means the valley of Gods. The bird of the State Uttarakhand called as colourful Himalayan Monal resides in this life-rich valley. Bird enthusiasts will have a fantastic time spotting Golden eagles and Himalayan griffins. More than the natural habitat, the valley also provides a mythic tale to the trekkers. It is said that the Pandavas undertook the same route in the search of heaven towards Swargrohini peak.
Altitude: 12500 feet
Season: May- June; December to February
No of Days: 6 to 7
Difficulty: Moderate in Winter, Easy in Summer
Kedarkantha trek is undoubtedly for the beginners. Beautiful campsites, amusing time with snow and the thrilling summit are few of the exquisite features of the Kedarkantha peak. While December is the most exciting time to plan the summit to this challenging peak, you can also look forward to a pleasant time, here in summers. The lush pine forests, maple, and oak green leaves are dried by the winter. The second campsite od Juda ka Talab is one it’s a kind lake to chill around its banks. Kedarkantha’s temperature makes it a suitable trek for the entire year.
Altitude: 13452 ft
Season: May-June; September- October
No of Days: 7 to 10
Difficulty: Easy
The Dev Kyara Bugyal is an amazing peak to summit. This is one of the peaceful treks as compared to the other coveted ones. The lush green meadows, moraine ridges, and glacial basins are some of the exciting features of this peak. Passing along the trail that runs parallel with the tributary of Supin river called Dibra Gad river, the valley discloses mesmerizing views that comprise wild strawberries, wild mushrooms, and exotic flowers. Dev Kyara meadow offers unmatched views of multiple unnamed peaks.
Altitude: 13780 ft
Season: June and October
No of Days: 9 to 10
Difficulty: Moderate
The Saru Tal is a high-altitude lake of the western Garhwal Himalayas. The pleasant weather during the days complements with a chilly night in this beautiful trek. The moderate Saru Tal trek is also one of the less popular ones. Moreover, camping alongside lake is always a favourite thing for trekkers and Saru Tal will unarguable let you feel the blissful time.
Altitude: 14,025 ft
Season: May- June; September to October
No of Days: 7
Difficulty: Moderate
The terrific Fachu Kandi pass is situated nearby eye-catching Saru Tal. Having unexplored by the trekkers, the virgin trail is indeed untouched, serene, and worth a trial. Adventurous combination of high ridges, and steep ascents: trekkers would relish this while quenching the thirst at streams en route. The route is similar to that of Kedarkantha trek, only to move further and witness the unseen zones.
Altitude: 14435 ft
Season: June and September
No of Days: 9
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
This summer trek of high altitude Baraadsar lake is a treat for the backpackers who love to explore the serene natives and interact with the locals. Bitari, Kasla, Fhitari, Jakhil and a few more around are quaint villages of the area. The lake is located between the Rupin and Supin valleys in the Garwhal Himalaya. Considered sacred by the locals, the Baradsar lake trek is not so popular amongst the trekker community. Owing to the altitude, choosing this spot will be the right decision for the beginners!
Altitude: 14600 ft
Season: May-June; September- October
No of days: 8 to 10
Difficulty: Moderate
Nalgan pass is a beautiful spot, recommended only for seasoned trekkers. Apart from majestic views of mighty mountains, the trekkers can either camp or spend some time on the banks of Kinsar lake. It is closer to Rupin pass. If you have done the Kedarkantha trek, then this could be your ideal next venture to explore.
Altitude: 14763 ft
Season: May- June, September- November
No of days: 8 to 10
Difficulty: Moderate
Ruinsara Tal, Baradsar Tal, and Maldaru Tal are triumvirate lakes of the zone. All the lakes are accessible for trekking purposes. Maldaru lake is considered very auspicious and worshipped by the fellow villagers. Being one of the difficult treks of the Uttarkashi, it is advisable for only seasoned trekkers.
Altitude: 15279 ft
Season: March to June; September to November
No of Days: 8 to 10
Difficulty: Difficult
Rupin pass trek is one of the most coveted Himalayan treks in India. The trekkers will be pleasantly surprised at every camp that unfolds a whole together with a new landscape. Walking along the Rupin river and filling your bottles, it is an enchanting feeling. Rupin pass trek is a full package that comprises, local villages, glacial meadows, snowfields, refreshing waterfalls, and an amazing pass.
Altitude: 16240 feet
Season: May-June and September-October
Distance covered: 56km
No of Days: 7 to 10
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
The beautiful Ruinsara lake, en route, is one of the unique selling points of this Bali pass trek. This is an offbeat trek. The trek belongs to the list of unexplored trails in western Himalaya. The route matches with the Har ki Dun trek until the campsite of Seema. Further, you reach Ruinsara gorge which covers a range of exotic forests. It is not a moderate trek. Hence, the trekkers are expected to prepare well before embarking on this beautiful journey to Bali pass. The temperature is also extreme during the winters hence it is recommended to do this trek in September as the weather is bearable. The Bali Pass trek package connects the Yamunotri valley with the Har Ki Dun valley.
Altitude: 16700 ft
Season: May-June; September-October
Days
Difficulty: Difficult
Singha Ghati is a high-altitude pass, preferably for the experienced trekkers. The vast snowfield, glacial meadows and possibly crevasses, Singha Ghati reaches to the village called Rakcham in Himachal Pradesh. The pass is situated at the border of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. The trek is not often explored and thus it is one the less coveted and crowded.
Altitude: 17224 ft
Season: May-June and September-October
No of Days: 8
Difficulty: Difficult
Situated at the border of two exceptionally beautiful north-Indian states of Himachal and Uttarakhand, Borasu is a high mountain pass. It is also closer to the border of Tibet. A connecting link to the Tons valley of Uttarkashi with Baspa valley in Himachal, it follows the same trail as that of popular Har ki dun trek. The Borasu pass lies further in the same trail. The trek offers dense forests of Willow, Chinar, Chestnut and many more. Passing through the coniferous trees and lush green meadows, the Borasu Pass trek is not a moderate one. the high altitude will burn your calories. So, you might as well be ready for this very interesting high Borasu pass trek!
Altitude: 18011 ft
Season: May-June; September- October
No of Days: 12
Difficulty: Difficult
Dhumdhar Kandi pass is a link to Bhagirathi and Tons valley. Tucked between two large rivers viz. Yamuna and Bhagirathi, they are fed by glaciers of this high-altitude pass. Beautiful green meadows, expansive snowfields, this historic pass also grants vivid views of Kalanag, Bandar Poonch, Yellow Tooth, and Swargrohini.
Altitude: 18740 ft
Season: May-June; September-October
No of Days: 9
Difficulty: Difficult
Khimloga pass is a high-altitude pass, hardly given an undaunted attempt. This is must-do if you have the adventure blood in you and definitely want to try something new and yet that gives you a feeling of adrenaline rush. Situated in the Dhauladhar range; Khimloga pass comprises crevasses, steep rock cliffs to climb, vast snowfields, and lengthy ridges. The Khimloga pass trek is like an expedition because of its difficult configuration.