Ranthan Kharak Trek – Into the Wilderness of Kumaon Himalayas
When one speaks of trekking in Uttarakhand, names like Milam Glacier, Khaliya Top, and Pindari Glacier often come to mind. But hidden deep in the folds of the Kumaon Himalayas lies a trail that remains largely untouched, wild, and immensely rewarding – the Ranthan Kharak Trek.
Situated in the Johar Valley region of Pithoragarh district, the trek takes you into dense forests, pristine meadows, and spectacular high-altitude ridges, offering a raw Himalayan experience. Unlike popular trails, Ranthan Kharak is still less commercialized, giving trekkers a chance to walk in solitude, listening only to the sound of wind in the pines, rushing streams, and the crunch of boots on forest trails.
At an altitude of about 4,000 meters (13,100 ft), Ranthan Kharak is a high alpine meadow (locally called a kharak) that opens up to grand views of the Nanda Devi range, Panchachuli peaks, and countless unnamed snow-clad summits. The trek combines rich cultural encounters in remote Kumaoni villages with the thrill of climbing higher into untamed wilderness.
If Khaliya Top is about meadows and Milam Glacier about grandeur, then Ranthan Kharak is about wilderness, silence, and raw beauty. It is a trail for those who wish to step away from the beaten path and embrace the Himalayas in their purest form.
Highlights of Ranthan Kharak Trek
Ranthan Kharak (3,950 m): A vast alpine meadow with sweeping views of Kumaon’s highest peaks.
Panchachuli Peaks: Iconic five sisters of Kumaon seen up close from high ridges.
Nanda Devi & Surroundings: Glimpses of India’s second-highest peak and its neighboring ranges.
Dense Forest Trails: Walk through oak, pine, and rhododendron forests alive with birdsong.
Bugyals & Alpine Flora: High-altitude grasslands bursting with wildflowers in spring and autumn.
Johar Valley Heritage: Encounter remote villages, age-old traditions, and stories of Indo-Tibetan trade.
Starry Night Camping: Sleep under a galaxy of stars in peaceful meadows away from light pollution.
Moderate–Challenging Terrain: A trek suitable for trekkers with some prior experience who want to explore a quieter side of Kumaon.
Best Season: April–June for rhododendron blooms and September–November for crystal-clear views.
Ranthan Kharak Trek Itinerary (6 Nights / 7 Days)
Day 1: Arrival at Kathgodam – Drive to Gogina (265 km, 9–10 hrs) Altitude: 6,200 ft
Your Himalayan adventure begins with an early morning pickup from Kathgodam Railway Station. From here, a long but scenic drive awaits, taking you through Almora, Bageshwar, and Sama before finally reaching Gogina. The drive is filled with picturesque views of pine-covered hills, river valleys, and terraced farms. En route, enjoy a hearty lunch at a local eatery that serves authentic Kumaoni flavors seasoned with homemade spices.
By evening, reach Gogina – a charming village surrounded by lush green hills. Overnight stay will be in a cozy guest house or homestay, giving you the chance to experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
Day 2: Trek from Gogina to Namik Village Camp (6 km, 3–4 hrs) Altitude: 7,300 ft
After a healthy breakfast, the trek officially begins! The trail starts from Gogina and passes through the small settlement of Sor. Walking amidst terraced fields and traditional Kumaoni houses, you gradually ascend towards Namik Village.
Namik, perched at 7,300 ft, is famous for its ancient Namik Glacier region and natural water springs. The village retains its old-world charm, with traditional wooden houses and smiling locals. By afternoon, reach your campsite near Namik, set against a backdrop of pine forests and mountain ridges. Enjoy a quiet evening under the stars.
Day 3: Trek from Namik Village Camp to Bajamania Camp (6 km, 4–5 hrs) Altitude: 9,000 ft
Today’s trail is more adventurous, weaving through dense rhododendron and oak forests, with colorful blooms during spring. The path is moderately steep but well-marked, and you may encounter shepherd huts and grazing cattle along the way.
After 4–5 hours of trekking, reach Bajamania Camp (9,000 ft) – a beautiful open campsite surrounded by forests and meadows. Relax, explore the nearby ridges, and enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the Kumaon ranges. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 4: Trek from Bajamania Camp to Thalthak Camp (3 km, 2–3 hrs) via Thala Bugyal Altitude: 11,000 ft
A relatively short but steep day. The trail ascends through Thala Bugyal, a pristine alpine meadow that bursts into life with wildflowers during spring and offers sweeping views of distant Himalayan peaks. Grazing cattle and the ringing of cowbells add to the pastoral charm of this stretch.
After 2–3 hours, arrive at Thalthak Camp (11,000 ft), your resting spot for the night. Spend the evening soaking in the high-altitude atmosphere with panoramic mountain views. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 5: Trek to Ranthan Top (13,000 ft) and return to Parwa Thor Camp (6–7 hrs round trip) Maximum Altitude: 13,000 ft
This is the summit day and the highlight of your trek! Start early with packed lunch and ascend gradually towards Ranthan Kharak (13,000 ft). The climb takes 3–4 hours and rewards you with majestic Himalayan vistas – including Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Rajrambha, and Panchachuli peaks.
After soaking in the views and celebrating your achievement at the summit, descend back towards Parwa Thor Camp, located slightly lower than Thalthak. Overnight stay in tents, with a sense of accomplishment.
Day 6: Trek from Parwa Thor Camp to Gogina (9 km, 5–6 hrs) Altitude: 6,200 ft
Today you descend back through forests, meadows, and streams, retracing parts of your trail. The 9 km trek takes around 5–6 hours, allowing plenty of time for photography and interaction with locals you meet on the way.
By evening, return to Gogina village. Stay in a guesthouse or homestay, relishing local cuisine and enjoying the comfort of a warm bed after days of camping.
Day 7: Drive from Gogina to Kathgodam (265 km, 9–10 hrs)
After breakfast, bid farewell to the mountains as you begin your drive back to Kathgodam. The 265 km road journey offers one last chance to admire the valleys, rivers, and Himalayan ridges of Kumaon.
By evening, reach Kathgodam Railway Station, marking the end of your Ranthan Kharak Trek. Depart with memories of high meadows, remote villages, and the thrill of standing on Ranthan Top.
Why Choose the Ranthan Kharak Trek?
While more popular treks like Milam Glacier or Pindari attract larger groups, Ranthan Kharak remains serene and raw. It offers:
A blend of culture and wilderness – remote villages combined with untouched meadows.
Manageable duration – a week-long trek that fits perfectly into travel plans.
Immense rewards – from close Himalayan views to peaceful campsites.
Less crowded paths – ideal for those seeking solitude and true Himalayan silence.
Essential Trek Information
Maximum Altitude: ~3,950 m (13,100 ft)
Trek Grade: Moderate–Challenging (suitable for trekkers with some prior experience)
Best Season: April–June (rhododendrons & greenery), September–November (clear skies & crisp views)
Nearest Railhead: Kathgodam (280 km from Munsiyari)
Trek Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days (Kathgodam to Kathgodam)
