Pindari Glacier Trek – The Classic Himalayan Adventure of Kumaon
When it comes to trekking in Uttarakhand, the Pindari Glacier Trek has always held a special place in the hearts of adventurers. Known as the “Soul of Kumaon Treks”, this legendary trail has inspired explorers, mountaineers, and travelers for over a century. From the colonial era to the present day, Pindari has been one of the most accessible and rewarding Himalayan treks, drawing people from across the world.
Stretching through the heart of the Kumaon Himalayas in Bageshwar district, the trek offers a perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and high-altitude adventure. Unlike the daunting expeditions of the Garhwal Himalayas, Pindari is a moderate trek that can be attempted by beginners with good fitness, while still offering the grandeur of massive Himalayan glaciers and snow-clad peaks.
At its crown lies the Pindari Glacier, a vast ice mass that descends from the southern slopes of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. At an altitude of around 3,660 m (12,000 ft), the glacier forms the source of the Pindar River, which meanders through lush valleys and eventually joins the Alaknanda. Along the way, trekkers walk through dense oak and rhododendron forests, charming Kumaoni villages, gushing rivers, and expansive bugyals (alpine meadows) before reaching the glacier snout.
If the Valley of Flowers is about floral beauty and Roopkund is about mystery, then the Pindari Glacier Trek is about history, accessibility, and timeless Himalayan charm. It remains one of the best introductions to high-altitude trekking in India.
Highlights of the Pindari Glacier Trek
Pindari Glacier (3,660 m / 12,000 ft): The majestic glacier snout and the source of the Pindar River.
Majestic Himalayan Peaks: Close views of Maiktoli (6,803 m), Nanda Kot (6,861 m), Panwali Dwar (6,663 m), Changuch (6,322 m) and glimpses of Nanda Devi.
Cultural Encounters: Remote Kumaoni villages such as Khati (the last inhabited village on the route) offer insights into mountain traditions and hospitality.
Verdant Valleys & Forest Trails: Walk through dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests alive with bird calls.
High-Altitude Bugyals: Expansive alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers during spring and autumn.
Rivers & Waterfalls: Constant companionship of the roaring Pindar River and sparkling streams.
Beginner-Friendly Adventure: A moderate trek suitable for first-timers with a good fitness level.
Starry Night Camps: Sleep under the pristine Himalayan skies away from city lights.
Best Season: April–June (rhododendron blooms and greenery) & September–November (clear skies, snow peaks visible).
Essential Trek Information
Maximum Altitude: 3,660 m (12,008 ft) – Pindari Glacier Zero Point
Trek Grade: Moderate (suitable for fit beginners and experienced trekkers alike)
Best Season: April–June: Rhododendrons, greenery, pleasant weather September–November: Clear skies, snow peaks visible, crisp air
Trek Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days (Kathgodam to Kathgodam)
Trek Distance: ~52 km round trip
Accommodation: Mix of homestays, rest houses, and tents
Nearest Railhead: Kathgodam (well connected to Delhi & Lucknow)
Pindari Glacier Trek Itinerary (6 Nights / 7 Days)
Day 1: Arrival at Kathgodam – Drive to Loharkhet (220 km, 8–9 hrs) | Altitude: 1,760 m (5,774 ft)
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from Kathgodam Railway Station. The drive towards Loharkhet is long but mesmerizing, winding through the picturesque towns of Almora, Bageshwar, and Kapkot. The roads pass through pine-covered hills, terraced fields, and charming riverside settlements, offering glimpses of Kumaon’s serene lifestyle.
By evening, reach Loharkhet, a small hamlet that serves as the basecamp for the trek. Accommodation will be arranged in a guesthouse or camp, where you can enjoy your first Himalayan sunset and prepare for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Loharkhet to Kharkiya – Trek to Khati Village (5–6 hrs trek) | Altitude: 2,210 m (7,250 ft)
After breakfast, start your trek towards Kharkiya, a motorable point. From here, begin your walk-through dense forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron. The trail gradually ascends, with birdsong and fresh mountain air keeping you energized.
By afternoon, you’ll reach Khati Village, the last inhabited settlement on the Pindari route. Famous for its traditional Kumaoni houses, stone-paved paths, and friendly locals, Khati offers a unique cultural experience. Stay overnight in tents or homestays, enjoying hearty local meals and stories of mountain life.
Day 3: Khati to Dwali (11 km, 5–6 hrs trek) | Altitude: 2,575 m (8,450 ft)
Today’s trail is a scenic walk along the banks of the Pindar River. The sound of gushing waters follows you as you cross wooden bridges, narrow ridges, and forested trails. The trek gradually ascends but remains moderate in difficulty.
After 5–6 hours, arrive at Dwali, a beautiful campsite located at the confluence of the Pindar and Kafni rivers. Surrounded by thick forests and snow peaks in the distance, Dwali is one of the most stunning camping spots on the trek. Overnight in tents or rest house.
Day 4: Dwali to Phurkia (5 km, 3–4 hrs trek) | Altitude: 3,250 m (10,663 ft)
A shorter but steeper trekking day awaits. The trail climbs through alpine landscapes, with the tree line gradually thinning out. You’ll notice the change in terrain as birch and rhododendron trees give way to rocky slopes and bugyals.
Phurkia, the next campsite, is surrounded by high ridges and offers breathtaking views. During spring, wildflowers bloom here, while in autumn, crystal-clear skies reveal countless stars. Rest here in tents, preparing for the big glacier day ahead.
Day 5: Phurkia to Pindari Glacier (Zero Point – 3,660 m / 12,008 ft) – Return to Phurkia (12 km round trip, 6–7 hrs)
This is the highlight of the trek! Start early in the morning and trek towards the Pindari Glacier snout (Zero Point). The trail ascends gradually, opening into wide valleys where the massive ice wall of the glacier comes into sight.
At Zero Point, you’ll stand face-to-face with the mighty Pindari Glacier, framed by towering Himalayan peaks like Maiktoli, Panwali Dwar, and Nanda Kot. The view is awe-inspiring – a mix of icy grandeur, deep silence, and raw power of nature.
Spend some time soaking in the achievement before retracing your steps back to Phurkia. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 6: Phurkia to Khati (16 km, 6–7 hrs trek) | Altitude: 2,210 m (7,250 ft)
After the exhilarating glacier visit, begin your return journey. Today is a long descent via Dwali, retracing the path through riverside trails, forests, and wooden bridges.
By evening, reach Khati Village once again. Enjoy your last evening in a Himalayan village, relishing Kumaoni cuisine and chatting with locals around a bonfire. Overnight stay in homestay or tents.
Day 7: Khati to Loharkhet – Drive to Kathgodam (220 km, 8–9 hrs)
On the final day, trek back to Kharkiya / Loharkhet, where vehicles will be waiting. From here, begin the scenic drive back to Kathgodam Railway Station.
By evening, reach Kathgodam with a heart full of memories – of glaciers, rivers, meadows, and the hospitality of Kumaon.
Why Choose the Pindari Glacier Trek?
While modern trekking has opened up countless new trails in Uttarakhand, Pindari remains timeless. It’s perfect for:
First-time Himalayan trekkers looking for a moderate challenge with big rewards.
Families and groups who want a safe yet thrilling Himalayan experience.
Nature lovers and photographers, with its stunning landscapes, birdlife, and wildflowers.
Adventure seekers who want to combine cultural encounters with wilderness.
