Pangarchulla Expedition: A Himalayan Trekking Challenge

Overview

The Pangarchulla trek is one of the most power-packed and thrilling summit climbs at 15,069 ft. in the Nanda Devi National Park, in the Garhwal Himalayas. This is a 7-day trek including travel. This trek is popular for its summit climb. The beautiful views of snow-topped mountains are just a treat to one’s eyes. 

During March and April, the forests are filled with blooming rhododendrons which adds charm to the beauty of the forest. You will be rewarded by the stunning views of the greater Himalayas all along the way. Being in this place will feel like you are in a different place.

Quick Itinerary

Day 1: Our itinerary will start from a drive from Rishikesh to Dhak

Day 2: Drive to Auli from Dhak and From here your trek to Tali will begin

Day 3: Reach Khullara from Tali while trekking 

Day 4: Today is the acclimation day at Khullara. Today you’ll trek to Kauri Top and then back to Khullara

Day 5: on the fifth day you’ll trek to Pangarchulla top and then back to Khullara

Day 6: Khullara to Dhak while trekking  

Day 7: Departure from dhak. Today you’ll drive back to Rishikesh

Difficulty level of the Pangarchulla trek

The Pangarchulla trek is known as one of the most difficult treks in the Indian Himalayas. There are various reasons why this trek is rated as difficult based on a few points mentioned below: 

• The trails are uneven and challenging 
• The high altitude of 15,000 ft. makes it even more challenging
• It can take 9 hours per day to reach the campsites
• Lack of multiple exit points 
• You need to be highly experienced if you want to undertake this trek
• This trek cannot be done without good physical health

It can be challenging to achieve a high altitude in just a few days. You’ll have to achieve an altitude of 4000 ft. per day to complete this trek in the estimated time. It needs lots of effort and practice to achieve such a high altitude. Snow makes the climb even more difficult for trekkers. This trek is almost impossible to do for someone who has no prior trekking experience and for someone who is not well trained or not physically fit. 

The best time to do the Pangarchulla trek  

Pangarchulla Peak trekking is generally recommended during the months from April to June and from September to November, which happens to be April to June and then from September to November, respectively. These instances are when the climate is generally anticyclonic, cloudless, and mild, ideal for trekking in calm and rain-free weather conditions. 

In the spring, the trail is covered with spring-blooming wildflowers and forms a lovely decoration that is enchantment for the eyes as if hiking in Oahu, Hawaii. The autumn months are the season that brings the best natural scenery. The peaks that look like they are covered with snow under blue skies add perspective to the picture.

Nevertheless, nobody will be in this region in July and August because of heavy rains, which can make trails slippery and cause landslides. It’s very dangerous that is why these months should be avoided. As well as that, winter is a time of the month from December to March when it gets very seriously cold and there may be heavy snow; in some cases, this makes the expedition quite difficult and even dangerous. It is important to plan the trek routes of Pangarchulla seasons as it can ensure safety and fun at the same time.

How to reach the basecamp 

The base camp of Pangarchulla Trek is Tugashi village in Josimath and you can reach there from Rishikesh or Haridwar. Here’s how you can reach the base village from Rishikesh. 

By Air: to reach Rishikesh by air you’ll have to take a flight to the Jolly Grant Airport situated in Dehradun. From there you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Rishikesh which is just 25 km away from Dehradun. After reaching there your journey toward the basecamp will start. 

By Train: Rishikesh has its railway station which makes it easy for travelers to reach there by train. After reaching Rishikesh you can take a bus to Josimath where the Tugashi village is situated.  

By Road: if you are planning to travel by road then you can take a bus from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. There are frequent buses from these cities to Haridwar and Rishikesh.  

What to pack for the trek

Here is a list of some of the essential things you should carry while going on a trek. 

• Carry an original and photocopy of the government ID card, a passport-size photo, and all the other mandatory documents. 
• You should carry a valid medical certificate signed by a doctor
• Carry necessary safety gear to ensure a safe trek 
• Comfortable, warm, and lightweight clothes. 
• You must carry extra batteries if you have any electronic devices like a camera 
• Essential toiletries like toothbrushes, handwash, wipes, etc are a must to carry 
• Wear a comfortable pair of shoes that are non-slippery
• Do carry socks, sun/woolen cap, waterproof gloves, rain cover (during monsoon), and a good quality backpack

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Conclusion:

In a nutshell, the trail has a lot to offer to the trekkers, irrespective of their level of experience as it includes significant historical, religious, and cultural elements of the Garhwal Himalayas. Walking with this expedition in the perfect timeline, late spring to early autumn, would allow trekkers to view the beautiful scenery as the blossoms bring joy and majestic snow-clad peaks. Within this frame, the clear skies and proper climatic conditions offer a friendly atmosphere, making it the best time to explore the region. 

For security reasons, it is important to avoid trekking in the monsoon and winter seasons. However, accepting the recommended timeframe only guarantees the trekkers of seeing the mesmerizing scenery, which is accessible to very few people. So follow these travel tips and make your trek to Pangarchulla memorable, leaving you in awe.

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