Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek

Drive from Dehradun to Sankri/Saur (1920 m) through the Yamuna and Tons valleys, across the Yamuna bridge, and enjoy the beautiful view of dense pine forests. Upon reaching Sankri in the evening, you can witness the stunning sunset behind the mountain ranges. The Sankri base camp offers a beautiful view of all four peaks in the Swargarohini range. Overnight camping in Sankri under the clear, starry sky is a memorable experience.

Participants are expected to arrange transportation to the Sankri base camp at an additional cost. Touch Himalayas will organize a taxi from Dehradun to the Sankri base camp.

Upon nearing Sankri, we’ll pass through the Govind National Park checkpoint, marking the end of our drive around 6 PM. Once at the guest house, you’ll have ample time to freshen up and rejuvenate. The nearby market beckons, offering a variety of trekking essentials, clothing, and equipment. This is the perfect opportunity for any last-minute shopping before we embark on our trek.

The journey from Sankri to Taluka involves a scenic drive through dense forests and gushing water streams. Taluka is a quaint village with traditional house structures and a few local eateries offering delicious food. Trekkers can take a break here before embarking on the 14km trek. This trek provides a diverse experience, with rocky terrain, wooden bridges, and lush green trails alongside the Supin River. The route also offers opportunities to spot various animals and birds. Additionally, trekkers will come across numerous freshwater streams along the way. The day’s journey ends in Seema, reached via Gangar village, where trekkers will camp on a small green field just before Seema.

This trek may be shorter, but it is incredibly picturesque. As you walk along, a river flows to your left, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountains and expansive valleys with impressive waterfalls. This area is a haven for photographers, as it is home to various rare species of Himalayan birds, animals, and flowers. After a short, steep climb to Devsu Bugyal, trekkers will camp here.

Trek from Start to Ruinsara Lake on a gradual ascent that offers excellent views of the snow-covered mountains and vast valleys with huge waterfalls. The area is home to several rare species of Himalayan wildlife. On your left, observe Har-ki-Doon Valley, below the confluence of Har-ki-Doon and Ruinsara rivers. Look for a steep descent towards the Ruinsara River through a forest trail. Trekkers will have to cross a wooden bridge over the Ruinsara River. Observe the Ruinsara Valley on your right. Passing through mountain bends, one will have to walk through a landslide area, and depending on the conditions, one may have to use ropes to cross over the broken bends. Observe the Ruinsara Lake, surrounded by meadows where the trekkers will camp.

Day 5 will be a light day for the trekkers, promising breathtaking Ruinsara and Kyarkoti Valley views. The entire Swargarohini range will be visible at a touching distance for the first time, attracting the trekkers. The climb towards Bali Odari will suddenly get steeper, and the trekkers will feel the altitude gain. The Bali base camp, or “Odari,” will please your eyes as the Swargarohini massif will be at your back, and the whole area will be covered with snow. The camp will be set here.

After having breakfast, start trekking towards the base camp of Mt. Kalanag (6387 m), the highest peak of the Saraswati mountain range

Start early in the morning from Kalanag Base Camp towards Dhumdhar Kandi Pass. Get some magnificent views of Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and Kalanag from Dhumdhar Kandi Summit. Descend towards Below Pass by evening.

Trek towards Bugiyal Camp through lush green meadows.

The descent continues today as you leave the high-altitude Bugiyal (meadows) behind. The trail gradually winds its way down, offering a beautiful change in scenery from stark alpine landscapes to thicker vegetation. You will cross a few lively mountain streams and walk through varied terrain before reaching the peaceful Guntunala Camp. This area offers a great opportunity to relax and take in the shifting Himalayan ecosystem.

Today's trek takes you further down into the lush Kyarkoti valley. The path is adorned with wildflowers and dense green patches, providing a striking contrast to the snowy pass you crossed just a few days ago. Kyarkoti is a sweeping, beautiful meadow surrounded by towering peaks, making it a picture-perfect spot to set up camp for the night and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains.

Leaving Kyarkoti, the trail becomes more defined as you enter areas frequently used by local shepherds. The trek involves walking through beautiful pine and birch forests, offering plenty of shade and the soothing sounds of the wilderness. You will make your way to Shepherd Camp, a traditional grazing ground that serves as a comfortable, scenic resting spot for the evening.

This is your final day of pure trekking! The descent takes you through thick coniferous forests and beautiful clearings until you reach the Jhala roadhead, situated near the banks of the Bhagirathi River. Jhala is a picturesque village famous for its crisp air and apple orchards. You will set up your final camp here, celebrating the successful crossing of the formidable Dhumdhar Kandi Pass with your team.

After a final camp breakfast, you will board the waiting vehicles for a scenic drive from the remote village of Jhala to the bustling mountain town of Uttarkashi. The drive traces the path of the Bhagirathi River, passing through the beautiful town of Harshil and dense pine forests. Upon reaching Uttarkashi, you can check into your hotel and finally enjoy the luxury of a hot shower and a comfortable bed.

On the final day of your expedition, you will drive from Uttarkashi back to Dehradun. The winding mountain roads offer the last glimpses of the Garhwal Himalayas. You will be dropped off at the designated location in Dehradun by late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of an unforgettable, challenging, and highly rewarding adventure.