Bhyundar Khal Trek

Early morning we drive to Govindghat and start the trek by crossing the river Alaknanda over a bridge at Govindghat and from there walk towards the Bhyundar valley through forest area and a few villages. There are numerous waterfalls and lush green landscape all around. The gradient of the trail is moderate. The 11 kms trek to reach Ghangharia takes about 4-5 hrs, one can also hire a mule to reach Ghangharia. Overnight in rest houses at Ghangharia.

We start the day�s trek with a short ascent to the valley. Gradient is moderate and the landscape soothing to the eye. It will take about a couple of hours to reach the valley. There are unending meadows laden with varieties of alpine flowers, network of streams and big mountains all around. The prominent species are Brahma Kamal, Anemone, Geranium, Marsh Marigold, Primula, Lilium, Potentilla, Ranunculus, Inula, Corydalis, Pedicularis, Arisaema, Ligularia, Morina, Impatiens, Saxifrages Bistorta, Anaphalis, Sibbaldia. One can spend 3-4 hours exploring different corners & vantage points of the valley. We continue our trek to Tipra Kharak and reach by late afternoon.

The day�s trek involves negotiating moraine and technical surfaces. The ascending path is gradual throughout, but challenging at times.

The trek on the glacier continues for about 5 km. The walk is technical and requires use of technical gear. After the glacial stretch, the path goes to the moraine continuously descending to the campsite.

On this day we start before sunrise. The walk again involves technical aspects on the glacier, which continues to the pass. It is a trek of about 8 km to the pass, which takes about 5-6 hours, with a stunning view of the greater Himalayas all around. Dinner and overnight stay in tent.

After a trek of 6 km along the valley, one reaches Edi Udiyar, with a grassy and comfortable place to set campsite.

Today we will descend to the village of Ghamsali. The frontier villages have mostly been abandoned as villagers have been migrating to towns and cities in the foothills and the plains after the 1962 war with China brought their centuries-old border trade to a halt. These villages come up with great culture and old oral tradition. We further drive to Joshimath. Overnight in a guest house.

We leave from Joshimath and reach Dehradun by early evening.

The Bhunder Khal trek takes about 7-8 days to complete and covers about 70-80 kms. The difficulty level of the trek is considered to be challenging, with steep inclines, bumpy terrain and bumpy roads.

The best time to visit Bhunderkhal is during the summer months, from May to June, and after the rainy season from September to October These seasons generally offer clear skies and mild temperatures

Accommodation options for the Bhunder Khal Trek are mainly camping at designated camping sites. Hikers are required to carry their own tents and camping gear. Sometimes you can find special houses or hotels in nearby villages.

Some of the essential things to pack for the Bhunder Khal trek are hiking gear (such as sturdy hiking boots, warm clothes, rain gear), camping gear (tent, sleeping bags, blankets), bare necessities (sunscreen, insects).Anti, toiletries ), food and enough water for the journey.

There are few hospitals and emergency centers along the Bhundar Khal Trek. It is advisable to carry a first aid kit and essential medications. In emergencies, evacuations can be arranged through moving companies or local authorities.

Here are some safety tips for hiking Bhunderkhal:
1. Complete transition to higher ground.
2. Access to adequate water and nutrition.
3. Follow the instructions of experienced travelers.
4. Be prepared for bad weather.
5. Stay on marked trails and avoid shortcuts.
6. Telling someone about your walking tour.
7. Respect for local culture and environment.