The Pindari Valley Glacier Trek is an exhilarating adventure where reaching Zero Point is considered the epitome of success. This trek offers a variety of experiences, from peaceful walks through rhododendron forests to challenging mountain ridges and stream crossings. The highlight is reaching the stunning Pindari Glacier at Zero Point, situated at 12,300 feet, a sight that fills trekkers with immense joy. This trek is ideal for families, including children, making it a perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking.
History of Explorations in Pindari Valley
For centuries, ancient trade routes thrived in the Pindari and Milam Valley, linking them to Tibet. In 1830, G.W. Traill, the first Deputy Commissioner of Kumaon, explored a shorter route to Martoli in the Milam Valley from Pindari Valley Glacier. This route crossed the Pindari ice-fall via Traill’s Pass (17,700 feet). Subsequent explorations were carried out by Schlagintweits (1850), Ruttledge (1926), the Japanese Mt. Nanda Kot Expedition team (1936), Osmaston and surveyors (1938), Arnold Heim (1937), and S.S. Khera (1941).
Although Pindari is not the longest or largest glacier in the Himalayas, its easy approach to the huge ice-fall section is unique and highly accessible for trekkers.
Short Itinerary
The trek to the Pindari Valley Glacier is like a full-course meal for trekkers, starting with level walks through peaceful rhododendron forests, traversing varied mountain ridges, spider-walls, and stream crossings, and ending with the breathtaking Pindari Glacier at Zero Point. This trek is perfectly suited for families, including children.
Detailed Trail Information
Day 1: Loharkhet to Khati via Kharkiya
Altitude: 5,502 ft to 7,355 ft
Time taken: 3-hour Jeep drive, 1-hour trek
Distance: 3-4 km
The journey begins with a drive from Loharkhet to Kharkiya, followed by a trek to Khati village. The trail descends through a beautiful mix of rhododendron and oak trees, crossing streams and bridges, and passing through Jakoni Village with stunning views of Sunderdhunga and Pindar Valleys. Khati Village, the base for backpackers, is the last inhabited village en route to Pindari Glacier.
Day 2: Khati to Dwali
Altitude: 7,355 ft to 8,566 ft
Time taken: 6-7 hours
Distance: 13 km
The trek from Khati to Dwali involves traversing fractured and non-existent trails due to landslides. Trekkers must navigate alternative routes along the river-side moraines of Pindari, rejoining the broken trail multiple times.
Day 3: Dwali to Phurkiya
Altitude: 8,566 ft to 10,465 ft
Time taken: 3 hours
Distance: 5 km
The trail from Dwali to Phurkiya ascends gradually through beautiful rhododendrons and oak forests, crossing streams and meadows with breathtaking views of Mt. Nanda Khat and Nanda Devi East.
Day 4: Phurkiya to Zero Point and back to Phurkiya
Altitude: 10,465 ft to 12,300 ft
Time taken: 7 hours
Distance: 16 km
The trek to Pindari Valley Glacier reaches Zero Point, a stunning location surrounded by high-rise snow-capped mountains. The glacier's amphitheatre-like view is impressive, offering an unforgettable experience.
Day 5: Phurkiya to Khati via Dwali
Altitude: 10,465 ft to 7,355 ft
Time taken: 7-8 hours
Distance: 18 km
The return journey to Khati follows the same route, traversing six major landslide zones.
Day 6: Khati to Kharkiya, drive to Kathgodam via Bageshwar
Altitude: 7,355 ft to 7,395 ft
Time taken: 45-60 minutes trek, followed by a jeep drive
The final leg of the journey involves a trek from Khati to Kharkiya and a jeep ride to Kathgodam.
How to Get Fit for the Trek
The Pindari Valley Glacier Trek is moderately difficult, requiring good cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility. Jogging, swimming, cycling, stair climbing, and strength training exercises like squats are recommended.
What to Pack for the Trek
Pack essential items, including trekking shoes, a backpack with rain cover, warm clothes, thermals, sunglasses, gloves, and a headlamp. Carry a personal medical kit, toiletries, cutlery, water bottles, and necessary documents.
Alternative Treks
For those seeking an alternative to Pindari Valley Glacier, the Kuari Pass Trek offers stunning mountain views, meadows, and rhododendron forests.
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