Embarking on the Pindari Glacier Trek is more than just a high-altitude adventure; it is a deep dive into the raw, untouched beauty of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region. Nestled between the majestic Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot peaks, the Pindari Glacier is often referred to as the "Soul of Kumaon." This 7-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of challenging terrain, cultural immersion, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned trekkers and ambitious beginners.
Trekking pulse begins on Day 3. The trail from Jaikuni to Dwali (2,638 m) is a 12 km stretch that winds through lush forests and alongside the spirited Pindar River. As you transition from homestays to alpine tents, the air grows crisp and the landscape more dramatic.
The journey continues with a shorter but steeper 5 km climb to Phurkia (3,260 m). This segment is a visual treat, characterized by alpine meadows and the increasing presence of snow-capped giants on the horizon. Phurkia serves as the final staging point before the ultimate push to the glacier.
Day 5 marks the crescendo of the trek: the push to Pindari Zero Point (4,198 m). This 14 km round-trip journey is a test of endurance and spirit. Reaching the "Zero Point" rewards trekkers with a staggering view of the Pindari Glacier—a massive sheet of ice spanning kilometers—framed by the towering summits of the Nanda Devi sanctuary. The silence of the high mountains and the sheer scale of the glacier offer a profound sense of accomplishment before returning to the safety of the Phurkia campsite.
Trek Cost
Add-on Service
Starting From
₹12,999 +5% GST
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Overview
Trek Name: Pindari Glacier Trek
Days: 7
Adventure Type: Trekking
Base Camp: Jaikuni
Season: Summer | Autumn
Month: April | May
Country: India
Altitude: 4,198 m.
Grade: Moderate
Rail Head: Lalkuan or Kathgudam
Stay: Homestay and Tent
Food: Veg And Non-veg as per availability
Location: Uttarakhand
Trek Distance: 48 Km.
Drive Distance: 460 Km.
Trail Type: Mix Terrain
AirPort: Panthnagar
Mandatory Documents & Key Points
1. Aadhaar Card.
2. Passport size Photo.
3. Travel insurance Mandatory (No trek permit will be issued without insurance).
4. Medical fitness certificate must for every Participant.
Fixed Departure Dates
Itinerary
Quick Itinerary
Day 1: Team meet at Kathgodam. Then drive to Jaikuni. Drive Duration: 8/9 hours. Drive- 230 km. Accommodation in Homestay.
Day 2: Rest Day. Day hiking to Jaikuni Top. Accommodation in Homestay.
Day 3: Jaikuni (2,180 m) - Dwali. Altitude: 2,638 m. Trek Duration: 8 hours. Trek - 12 km. Accommodation in Tent.
Day 4: Dwali - Phurkia. Altitude: 3,260 m. Trek Duration: 5 hours. Trek - 5 km. Accommodation in Tent.
Day 5: Phurkia - Pindari zero point (4,198 m) - Phurkia. Trek Duration: hours. Trek - 14 km. Accommodation in Tent.
Day 6: Phurkia - Jaikuni. Trek Duration: 9/10 hours. Trek - 17 km. Accommodation in Homestay.
Day 7: Jaikuni - Kathgodam. Drive Duration: 8/9 hours. Drive - 230 km.
Who Can Participate
Basic Criteria
• Minimum age limit 10 years.
• Anyone can join the trek must having prior experience and good physical conditions.Fitness Criteria
• The Trekker should have sufficient physical ability to complete a jogging activity of 5 km distance in 40 minutes or 7 km distance in 1 hour without stress.
• If a trekker prefers cycling, he/she has to be completed a distance of 15 km within 45 minutes.
• If a trekker wants to carry a backpack, then he/she should be able to carry an 7 kg backpack. If he/she is off-loading, then the trekker should be able to carry minimum 3 kg backpack.
Health & Fitness Information
Health & Awareness
Medical requirements & guidelines
Kids Guidelines
Special instructions for children
Fitness Required
BMI calculator & fitness criteria
Mandatory Documents
Useful resources & documents
Health and Awareness
1. Physical Preparation (Pre-Trek)
Conditioning your body is the best way to prevent injuries like sprains or extreme fatigue.
- Cardio & Endurance: Focus on leg-based cardio such as cycling, swimming, and brisk walking. Aim for 30–45 minutes, 4–5 times a week.
- Leg & Core Strength: Squats, lunges, step-downs, and calf raises help build strength and balance.
- Weighted Training: Start 4 weeks before the trek. Walk with a backpack similar to your trek load. If offload service is availed, you must still carry 3kg or more.
- Footwear Preparation: Never wear brand-new boots on a trek. Break them in with local walks to avoid blisters.
2. High Altitude Awareness (AMS / HAPE / HACE)
If your trek goes above 2,500m (8,000 ft), altitude sickness is a risk regardless of fitness.
HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema)
HAPE is a life-threatening condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs due to low oxygen pressure at high altitude.
Common Symptoms:
- Extreme fatigue
- Breathlessness even at rest (major red flag)
- Persistent cough with frothy or pink sputum
- Chest tightness
- Bluish lips or fingernails (cyanosis)
Prevention & Action:
- Climb high, sleep low
- Ascend gradually (300–500m per day)
- Drink 3–4 liters of water daily
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- If symptoms persist → descend immediately
HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema)
HACE is the most severe form of altitude sickness, caused by swelling of the brain due to low oxygen.
Key Warning Signs:
- Loss of coordination (ataxia)
- Confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior
- Severe headache not relieved by medication
- Loss of consciousness
Immediate Treatment:
HACE is a medical emergency. Immediate descent and hospitalization are critical.
3. Prevention Tips
- Climb high, sleep low
- Gradual ascent above 3,000m
- Stay hydrated and avoid sedatives
- If confusion or balance issues occur, descend immediately
4. On-Trail Health & Safety
- Hydration & Nutrition: Carry ORS and high-energy snacks.
- Sun & Eye Protection: Use SPF sunscreen, hat, and polarized sunglasses.
- Medical Kit: Carry personal medication as advised by your doctor.
- Hygiene: Use sanitizer and drink only filtered or boiled water.
- Slowest Hiker Rule: Always match the pace of the slowest trekker.
5. Environmental Awareness
- Weather Monitoring: Mountain weather changes rapidly; carry layered clothing.
- Leave Only Footprints: Respect nature. Pack out all trash and stay on trails.
Kids Guidelines
Trekkers Age Policy & Guidelines
To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, we have established the following age-related guidelines for our trekking expeditions:
Young Explorers (Under 15 Years)
Safety is our top priority for our youngest adventurers. Trekkers under the age of 15 years must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian throughout the duration of the trek.
This ensures a supportive environment where children can build confidence, resilience, and essential outdoor skills in a safe and controlled setting.
Independent Trekkers (15 to 18 Years)
Participants aged 15–18 years may trek solo with a Parental Consent & Disclaimer Form signed and submitted before the trek.
Why These Guidelines Matter?
- Safety First: High-altitude trekking needs maturity.
- Legal Compliance: Consent ensures emergency readiness.
- Better Experience: Correct supervision improves safety.
Fitness Required
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BMI Categories
| BMI Range | Category | Trek Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 16.5 | Severely Underweight | Not recommended |
| 16.5 - 18.5 | Underweight | Consult coordinator |
| 18.5 - 25 | Normal | You're fit! |
| 25 - 30 | Overweight | Consult coordinator |
| Above 30 | Obese | Not recommended |
Mandatory Documents
Gallery
Trek Cost
Add-on Service
Starting From
₹12,999 + 5% GST
Enquire