Pindari Glacier trek is one of the most popular trekking places in Uttarakhand. The glacier forms in the upper areas of the Kumaon Himalayas and lies in the southeast of the snow-covered mountains of Nanda Devi and Nand Kot. Pindari also shifts south for around 3 km giving rise to the Pindari River. Then, Pindari meets River Alaknanda in the Garhwal District of Uttarakhand.
You can enjoy natural splendors throughout Pindari Glacier Trek. The impeccable scenery formed by a variety of flowers, lush greenery, cascading falls, pristine rivers, and a tranquil landscape will leave you enthralled. Trekkers come across unexplored locations and villages of Uttarakhand, which have several mythologies associated with it. There are wooden bridges from where you can adore the vast expanse of lush greenery.
Pindari Glacier Trek is one of the unmatched and refreshing experiences for both beginners and experts. It is a must-visit place for adventure enthusiasts, shutterbugs, and nature-lovers. Located in close vicinity to Pindari Glacier is Kafni Glacier, which is also listed among the best trekking sites in India.
Pindari Glacier Trek Information
- Pindari Glacier Trek Duration - 7 days and 6 nights
- Pindari Glacier Trek Altitude - roughly 3,660 m
- Pindari Glacier Trek Level - Moderate to difficult
- Best Season - April to November (except monsoons)
- Region: Kumaon Himalayas
- Trekking Distance: 110 Km
- Nearest Railway Station- Kathgodam is the nearest railhead from Loharkhet.
- Nearest Major Town- Haldwani, Tanakpur, and Almora are major towns that are easily accessible by regular buses.
Best Time to Visit for Pindari Glacier Trek
Mid-March to mid-June is the best time to visit Pindari Glacier Trek. The clear skies, pleasant climatic conditions, and favorable environment make the trek comfortable and memorable. From September to October, the region enjoys salubrious weather, which is also a good time for trekking. In the monsoon season, the heavy rainfall causes landslides and road blockage. Also, the temperature dips below zero in the winter season due to heavy and frequent snow showers. It is not advisable to go trekking in winters due to tough weather conditions.
Where is Pindari Glacier Located?
Nestled in the lap of the Kumaon Himalayas, Pindari Glacier is situated at an altitude of 3,353 m above sea level. Spread over an area of 3.2 km, Pindari Glacier is the sole source of the Pindari River that merges with the Alaknanda River in Karnprayag. Khati is the base camp of the Pindari Glacier trek, which is easily accessible by road from Kathgodam.
Pindari Glacier Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi – Kathgodam (278 km / 5 to 6 hours) – Loharkhet
On the 1st day of the tour, proceed from Delhi to Kathgodam. On reaching Kathgodam, get transferred to Loharkhet in a bus or cab. A night stay in Loharkhet.
Day 2: Loharkhet - Kharkiya – Khati (4 km / stay at Khati)
Today, take a 3-hour-jeep drive from Loharkhet to Kharkiya. On your arrival at Kharkiya, you trek to Khati, around 4 km, and taking about 60 to 90 minutes. Further, on entering Khati, set a base camp and relax.
Day 3: Khati to Dwali (13 km approximately / 6 – 7 hrs)
On the 3rd day of the tour, start your trek from Khati. You indulge in a 13-km-long trek to Dwali, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours to cover. A night stay in Dwali.
Day 4: Dwali to Phurkiya (5 km / 2 – 3 hours)
On the 4th day of your trekking tour to Pindari Glacier, continue your trek from Dwali to Phurkiya, which is 5 km away and takes 2 to 3 hours. Overnight stay in Phurkiya.
Day 5: Phurkiya to Pindari-Zero Point and back to Phurkiya (16 km approximately / 7 hours)
Today, from Phurkiya, you trek to the main destination Pindari Glacier. As you reach Pindari, enjoy the scenic surroundings and start your return trek to Phurkiya. Overall, it takes 7 hours to complete 16 km. Overnight in Phurkiya.
Day 6: Phurkiya to Khati via Dwali (18 km / 7 – 8 hours)
On this day of the tour, you will start your trek from Phurkiya to Khati via Dwali, which roughly takes 7 to 8 hours to cover 18 km. Overnight stay in Dwali.
Day 7: Khati to Kharkiya (4 km approximately / 45 – 60 minutes)
On the 7th and last day, get transferred to Kharkiya and further to Bageshwar. On reaching Bageshwar, travel back to Kathgodam for your onward journey.
