Complete Guide to Pindari Glacier Trek
The Pindari Glacier Trek is a breathtaking adventure in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. Known as the "Soul of Kumaon," this trek offers stunning views of snow-clad peaks, lush forests, and charming Himalayan villages. The glacier originates from the Pindari River, which eventually merges with the Alaknanda River, a major tributary of the Ganges.
1. Key Details of Pindari Glacier Trek
Location: Bageshwar district, Kumaon region, Uttarakhand
Starting Point: Khati
Trek Duration: 6–7 days
Trek Distance: Approximately 48 km (round trip)
Maximum Altitude: 3,660 meters (12,008 feet)
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (suitable for beginners)
Best Time to Visit:
April to June: Best for spring views with blooming rhododendrons
September to November: Clear skies and post-monsoon greenery
2. Highlights of the Trek
Majestic Views: Panoramic vistas of peaks like Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Panwali Dwar, and Maiktoli.
Pindari Glacier: A magnificent 5 km-long glacier that is easily accessible.
Kumaoni Villages: Experience the traditional lifestyle in villages like Khati, the last inhabited village on the route.
Diverse Flora & Fauna: Dense oak and rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and Himalayan wildlife such as bharals and snow leopards.
Sacred Sites: The trek passes through small temples and shrines along the route.
3. Pindari Glacier Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Kathgodam to Khati (Drive - 250km approx, 9- 10 hours)
Arrive in Kathgodam (nearest railway station) and take a scenic drive to Khati (2210m)
Stay: Guesthouse or tented accommodation.
Day 2: Khati to Dwali (Trek - 14 km, 6-7 hours, 2,700 meters)
The trail follows the Pindar River and crosses several wooden bridges.
Dwali serves as a major rest point with scenic waterfalls nearby.
Stay: Campsite/ Guesthouse(PWD or KMVN)
Day 3: Dwali to Phurkia (Trek - 5 km, 3-4 hours, 3,250 meters)
Short but steep ascent with stunning views of towering peaks.
Stay: PWD/KMVN Guesthouse or Campsite
Day 4: Phurkia to Pindari Glacier Zero Point and back to Dwali (Trek - 15 km, 7-8 hours, 3,660 meters)
The highlight of the trek: the majestic Pindari Glacier.
Enjoy the breathtaking glacier views and take photos.
Return to Dwali for the night.
Day 5: Dwali to Khati (Trek - 14 km, 5-6 hours)
Descend back to Khati village through beautiful meadows.
Stay: Guesthouse or homestay.
Day 6: Khati to Kathgodam ( Drive 250 km
4. How to Reach Pindari Glacier
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (250 km from Loharkhet).
Flights available from Delhi.
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam
Direct trains from Delhi, Dehradun, and Lucknow.
By Road:
Well-connected to Kathgodam via Almora and Bageshwar by buses and taxis.
5. Difficulty Level & Preparation
Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate; suitable for beginners with decent fitness.
Challenges: Long trekking hours and moderate altitude gain.
Preparation Tips:
Regular cardio workouts (running, cycling, hiking).
Strength training for legs and endurance building.
Acclimatize in Kathgodam or Loharkhet before starting the trek.
6. Permits & Guidelines
No special permits are required for Indian nationals.
Foreign nationals must register at the local forest check posts.
Trekkers are advised to follow eco-tourism guidelines and avoid littering.
7. Packing Essentials
Clothing:
Thermal innerwear and fleece jacket.
Waterproof jacket and pants.
Trekking pants and quick-dry t-shirts.
Gloves, woolen socks, and cap.
Gear:
Good quality trekking shoes.
Backpack (40-50L capacity).
Sleeping bag (rated for sub-zero temperatures).
Other Essentials:
Sunglasses and sunscreen.
First-aid kit with altitude sickness medication.
Water bottles and purification tablets.
Energy bars and dry fruits.
8. Accommodation & Food
Accommodation: Guesthouses and campsites are available along the route.
Food: Simple vegetarian meals (dal, rice, chapati, vegetables) provided at guesthouses.
9. Safety Tips
Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion.
Follow the guide’s instructions carefully.
Be prepared for sudd
