Uttarakhand TripTrek
Pangarchulla Trek

Pangarchulla Trek

About Pangarchulla Trek

6 Days/ 5 Night 15000ft 15 people Garhwal hard 44 Km

The Pangarchulla Peak Trek is one of the most thrilling and scenic summit treks in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, reaching a height of 4,600 meters (15,100 ft). Famous for its challenging climbs and spectacular 360° Himalayan views, this trek offers an ideal combination of adventure, beauty, and alpine experience.

Starting from Rishikesh, the trail passes through Joshimath, Tugasi Village, Gulling Top, and Khullara, surrounded by oak and rhododendron forests. Trekkers are rewarded with mesmerizing views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Kamet, Hathi-Ghodi, and Dronagiri Peaks. Pangarchulla is a moderate to difficult trek that tests endurance while offering some of the most stunning sunrise and snow experiences in Uttarakhand.

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Day 1

Rishikesh to Joshimath

Joshimath9-10 Hrs4400ftDriving250km
  • Your Pangarchulla Trek begins from Rishikesh, the spiritual and adventure capital of Uttarakhand. Trekkers are picked up in the early morning, and the drive follows the scenic Badrinath Highway alongside the sacred Alaknanda River.
  • The 9–10 hour journey offers breathtaking landscapes and passes through the four holy confluences (Prayags) — Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandaprayag — where major Himalayan rivers merge to form the Ganga.
  • Each confluence holds deep mythological and spiritual significance, making the drive not just picturesque but also culturally enriching. By evening, you'll reach Joshimath, a beautiful mountain town that serves as a hub for treks to Kuari Pass, Pangarchulla, and the Valley of Flowers.
  • Enjoy tea on arrival, followed by a short trek briefing and dinner. Overnight stay in a comfortable guesthouse.
  • Day 2

    Drive from Joshimath to Tugasi Village → Trek to Gulling Top

    Gulling4-5 Hrs9400ftTrekking4km
  • After breakfast, drive to Tugasi Village, the starting point of your trek. The drive offers spectacular views of the Garhwal mountains and lush valleys.
  • The trail from Tugasi begins with a gradual ascent through traditional Himalayan settlements and terraced farmlands. Trekkers can see locals working in their fields, providing a glimpse of mountain life. As you climb higher, the scenery opens up to grand views of Dronagiri Peak and the Dhauli Ganga valley.
  • You'll reach Gulling Top by afternoon — a stunning meadow surrounded by oak and rhododendron forests. The campsite here offers mesmerizing sunset views over the snow-capped peaks. Spend the evening relaxing by the campfire under a starlit sky.
  • Day 3

    Trek from Gulling Top to Khullara Camp

    Khullara Camp5-6 Hrs11000ftTrekking6km
  • After breakfast, begin your steady ascent toward Khullara Camp. The trail passes through enchanting oak, walnut, and rhododendron forests, alive with bird calls and crisp mountain air.
  • You'll cross several small water streams and open ridges offering glimpses of snow-clad peaks. As you gain altitude, the forests begin to thin out, revealing wider Himalayan panoramas.
  • By afternoon, you'll reach Khullara, a picturesque campsite nestled amidst coniferous forests and surrounded by majestic peaks like Kamet, Mana Parvat, Dronagiri, and Hathi-Ghodi Parvat.
  • After lunch, enjoy a short acclimatization hike to nearby meadows to prepare for the next day's summit. The evening is spent enjoying hot meals and sharing stories under the starry night.
  • Day 4

    Summit Day – Khullara to Pangarchulla Peak and Back to Khullara Camp

    Pangarchulla Peak9-10 Hrs15100ftTrekking14km
  • This is the most challenging and rewarding day of your trek. The summit push starts as early as 2:00 AM, so prepare your gear and carry at least 2 liters of water.
  • The trail initially follows Lord Curzon's Trail before diverting toward the steep ridge leading to Pangarchulla Summit. The climb involves negotiating snowfields, rocky ridges, and narrow ascents, making it an exciting yet demanding experience.
  • As dawn breaks, golden rays illuminate the snow-covered peaks, and views of Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and Kamet leave trekkers spellbound. The final ridge climb requires careful steps using microspikes or ice axes (if required).
  • Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with 360° panoramic Himalayan views — one of the most breathtaking vistas in Uttarakhand. After spending some time soaking in the beauty, begin your descent to Khullara Camp, reaching by late afternoon.
  • Day 5

    Trek from Khullara to Tugasi Village → Drive to Joshimath

    Joshimath7-8 Hrs6150ftTrekking8km
  • After breakfast, descend back to Tugasi Village through familiar trails lined with oak and rhododendron. Capture your last views of the high peaks before you re-enter the lower valleys.
  • From Tugasi, board the vehicle for a scenic drive to Joshimath or Pipalkoti, where you'll check in to a guesthouse. The evening is spent reminiscing about the trek's highlights over a warm meal.
  • Day 6

    : Drive from Joshimath to Rishikesh

    Rishikesh9-10 Hrs1200ftDriving250km
  • After breakfast, begin your return journey from Joshimath to Rishikesh, retracing the beautiful Badrinath Road along the Alaknanda River.
  • As you pass through the Prayags once more, reflect on your incredible journey to Pangarchulla Peak, an adventure that combines endurance, natural beauty, and Himalayan spirit.
  • By evening, you'll reach Rishikesh, marking the end of this unforgettable trek.
  • Trek Essentials

    Why Preparation Matters

    Preparing for a hard trek like Pangarchulla Trek reaching 15,000 ft altitude requires careful planning.

    EssentialRecommendedOptional

    Essential Gear

    Moisture-wicking base layersInsulated mid layer (fleece / light down)Waterproof shell jacket (rain + wind)Trekking pants (quick-dry)
    clothing
    • 👕Moisture-wicking base layersEssential
    • 👕Insulated mid layer (fleece / light down)Essential
    • 👕Waterproof shell jacket (rain + wind)Recommended
    • 👕Trekking pants (quick-dry)Recommended
    • 👕Thermal innerwear (winter treks)Optional
    • 👕Buff/neck gaiter & sun hatOptional
    • 👕Warm beanie & glovesOptional

    Other Important Information

    How to Reach (Starting Point – Rishikesh)

    • By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 20 km from Rishikesh.

    • By Train: Regular trains to Rishikesh and Haridwar from Delhi.

    • By Road: Well-connected by buses, cabs, and private vehicles from Delhi and Dehradun.

    Trek Policies

    Payment Policy

    • Discussion with our team before booking
    • 50% advance payment to confirm booking
    • Balance payment one week before trek

    Cancellation Policy

    • Full refund if cancelled within 7 days of booking
    • 50% refund with our team 3-6 days prior
    • No refund if less than 3 days

    Refund Policy

    • Refund will be processed within 5-7 days
    • If trek is cancelled by us
    • If you miss the trek

    Frequently Asked Questions

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