Introduction
So here after completing our journey with the cruise we are back to trekking and mountains. We are back in the large ranges of Himalayas. This time this article is about Pangarchulla Trek one of the major mountain peak of Himalayas located in state of Chamoli district which is in Uttrakhand!!.It’s a challenging and rewarding adventure that offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks, meadows, and forests.
Pangarchulla Trek: A Journey to the Chimney Peak
Pangarchulla stands at an altitude of 15,100 feet. It is also known as the chimney peak because of its shape and the smoke-like clouds that surround it. Pangarchulla trek is a popular and demanding trek that requires good physical fitness and mountaineering skills. The trek offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and diversity of the Himalayas, from the green valleys and villages to the glaciers and snowfields.
The Trek Route
The trek starts from Rishikesh, where you travel by road to Pipalkoti, a small town on the banks of the Alaknanda river. Pipalkoti serves as the base camp for the trek. From Pipalkoti, you drive to Tugashi village, which is the starting point of the trek. The trail passes through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and deodar trees, where you can spot various animals and birds. You also cross several streams and bridges along the way.
The first campsite is at Khullara, a grassy meadow surrounded by pine trees and views of the peaks like Dronagiri, Hathi Parvat, and Ghori Parvat. The next day, you trek to Kuari Pass, a famous pass that offers panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in India, such as Nanda Devi, Kamet, Neelkanth, and Chaukhamba. Kuari Pass is also known as Lord Curzon’s trail, as it was explored by the former British Viceroy of India in 1905.
Kuari Pass
From Kuari Pass, you descend to Gailgarh, another meadow with views of Pangarchulla peak. This is where you prepare for the summit climb. The next day, you start early in the morning and trek to Pangarchulla peak via a steep and rocky ridge. The climb is challenging but rewarding, as you reach the top of the peak and witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas. You can see a 360-degree view of the mountains and valleys from the summit. After spending some time at the top, you descend back to Gailgarh and then to Khullara.
The last day of the trek is a downhill walk from Khullara to Dhak village, where you board a vehicle and drive back to Pipalkoti. From Pipalkoti, you return to Rishikesh by road.
The Best Time to Visit
Pangarchulla trek can be done throughout the year, but each season has its own charm and challenges. The best time to visit depends on your preference and experience.
Spring (March to May): This is the best time to see the greenery and flowers in full bloom. The weather is pleasant and clear, and the snow is moderate. You can see a contrast of colors between the meadows and the snow-capped peaks.
Summer (June to August): This is the monsoon season in India, and it can be rainy and cloudy in this region. The trek can be slippery and risky due to landslides and flash floods. However, if you are lucky, you can see some rare flora and fauna that thrive in this season.
The Trek Highlights
Pangarchulla trek has many highlights that make it a memorable experience for any trekker. Some of them are:
The summit climb: The climb to Pangarchulla peak is one of the most exciting parts of the trek. You get to test your stamina and skills on a steep and rocky terrain that leads to a magnificent summit. You feel a sense of achievement and awe as you reach the top and see the Himalayan panorama.
The mountain views: Pangarchulla trek offers some of the best views of the Himalayan peaks that you can ever imagine. You can see more than 20 peaks from different angles and perspectives throughout the trek. Some of them are Nanda Devi (the second highest peak in India), Kamet (the third highest peak in India), Neelkanth (the blue-throated peak), Chaukhamba (the four-pillared peak), and many more.
The meadows and forests: Pangarchulla trek takes you through some of the most beautiful meadows and forests in the Himalayas. You can see a variety of flowers, grasses, trees, and shrubs that change colors with the seasons. You can also spot some rare and exotic animals and birds that live in these habitats.
The villages and culture: Pangarchulla trek also gives you a chance to interact with the local people and learn about their culture and lifestyle. You can see their houses, farms, temples, and festivals that reflect their rich heritage and traditions. You can also taste their delicious cuisine and hospitality.
The Trek Essentials
Pangarchulla trek is a moderate to difficult trek that requires proper preparation and planning. Here are some of the essentials that you need to carry for this trek:
Conclusion
Pangarchulla trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you spellbound and exhilarated. It is a perfect trek for those who love mountains, nature, and adventure. It is a trek that will challenge you, inspire you, and transform you. It is a trek that you will never forget
