Panchachuli Base Camp Trek, Uttarakhand

Panchachuli Base Camp Trek Overview

Located in the midst of the majestic Himalayan mountains, the Panchachuli Base Camp Trek starts in Uttarkahads's Pithoragarh district and is known to be one of the most popular treks in India. Embark on this amazing journey and pass through beautiful forests, meadows, and gushing rivers to reach a height of 13975 feet. Get a chance to look at some exotic and rare birds and flora on your way. You can also spot wildlife, interact with local villagers and take some amazing photos on your way.

The panchachuli base camp trek itinerary starts at Kathgodam where you begin your scenic ride toward the first point, Dharchula. Pass through the beautiful towns and villages and reach your campsite. You can then start your trek from Dar to reach urthing and pass through a narrow cliff edge along the Dhauliganga river flowing on your right. You will then go through Naagling through the beautiful suspension bridge. Witness the majestic Himalayas as you continue walking and reach the forests of Dantu Bugyals. Once you reach the Panchachuli Base Camp, you can enjoy the stunning views of the glaciers and meadows which will take your breath away. You can stay overnight at the basecamp and start your trek downwards and retrace your steps to reach back to Dharchula.

Panchachuli Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Kathgodam – Dharchula

Start the first day of your Panchachuli Base Camp Trek from Kathgodham and head over to Dharchula.
Enjoy the beautiful scenic ride and witness many towns such as Bhimtal. Almora, and Ashkot.
Look at the mesmerizing Himalayan ranges and cross many forests to reach Dharchula which is located between India and Nepal.

Dharchula / Dhar / Urthing

Go on a 3-hour scenic drive to Dar and pass many small tribal villages.
Start your 4-hour trek from Dar to Northing and pass through many forests and the beautiful Dhauliganga river flowing on your right.
Once you reach the village of Bongling, you will find level walks and short climbs before you reach the campsite.

Urthing - Nagling

One of the easiest and most beautiful walks of this trek, you can head over to Nagling and enjoy the 10 km trek which takes about 4 hours to complete.
Pass through some vibrant green pasture lands, Dhauli Ganga, meadows of the Himalayan ranges, and also a suspension bridge to reach the sela campsite.
You will find your campsite along the river on the outskirts of Naagling.

Nagling - Son (11 km, 5 hrs)

Start your 11 km trek from Nagling and pass through many hillsides and rocky terrain for 3 kms before you reach a beautiful forest with high oak and birch trees.
The trek is completely worth it when you witness the beautiful sigh of the majestic Himalayas and distant glaciers on the way.
Walk through the beautiful meadows, Baaling, and reach the most picturesque settlement of the Darma valley called Son.

Son - Panchachuli Base Camp, Highest altitude: 4260 mts

The trail to the Panchachuli Base Camp passes through the beautiful dance meadows with birches and wildflowers.
Smell the fragrant wildflowers and witness many towering hills and glaciers along the way.
Take some amazing pictures of the beautiful view from the top before you come back to Nagling to camp overnight.

Panchachuli base camp - Nagling

Start your morning by trekking down 16 km to Nagling.
One of the easiest treks, you just have to walk downwards and reach the base camp to enjoy a delicious dinner.

Nagling - Urthing

Start your day at Nagling with a delicious breakfast and get ready to trek down to reach Urthing.
- Retrace your steps and pass through the beautiful coniferous forests, birch trees, meadows, and the mighty Himalayan views.
Reach your base camp in Urthing and stay overnight.

Urthing – Dharchula

Today is the last day of your trek where you walk from Urthing towards Sobla.
Once you reach Sobla, you can drive to reach Dharchula and stay overnight.

Dharchula – Kathgodam

End your amazing journey by driving down to Kathgodham.
You will reach by evening and then you can take an overnight bus or train to reach New Delhi and back home.

What to Pack for Panchachuli Base Camp Trek

Equipment: Carry equipment such as a walking stick, torch with extra batteries, and lighter for your trek.

Clothing: Carry winter wear, windproof jacket and trek pants, woolen hats, waterproof gloves, thermal wear, and a minimum of 5 pairs of woolen socks.

Footwear: Good pair of trekking shoes is very important for the trek as you have to walk through different terrains.

Other items: Do not forget to pack sunblock, lip balms, Sunglasses, and a Toilet kit with toilet paper and quick dry towels.

Essentials

Backpack: Please make sure that you carry a light backpack as you will always carry it on your shoulders throughout the trek.

Water bottle: Make sure to use a reusable water bottle as you can refill it at your campsites.

First aid kit: It gets difficult to find a doctor at medical stores if you get injured on the trek. It is highly recommended to pack your first aid kit and your personal medications.

Know Before You go to Panchachuli Base Camp Trek

How to Reach

Important Tips for trekkers

By Train: The nearest railway station to reach the starting point of the trek is Kathgodam. Once you reach Kathgodham, you can drive to Dharchula and enjoy the scenic drive.

By Air: The Pantnagar airport is the nearest airport which is 280 km from Dharchula. Once you reach the airport, you can take a bus or a cab to reach Dharchula within 8 hours.

By Bus: There are regular buses from Delhi to Kathgidham. You can also reach Haldwani and start your drive to Dharchula

Most of the treks in India have many different terrains and it is always better to know a few tips and tricks which may come in handy during your trip.

Always pay attention to the guide or the instructor accompanying you on the Journey to have a safe trek.
It is not recommended to trek during the night unless the trek requires and you are accompanied by a professional instructor.
Do not forget to carry a first-aid box and your basic medication.
As the trek is at a higher altitude, it is advised to not use earphones as it might affect your audibility.
Always carry your valid ID as it might be needed during check-in.
The Panchachuli Base Camp Trek passes through many eco-friendly zones and it is advised to not use plastic bags and avoid littering.
Carry a water bottle with you as you can keep refilling it at your base camp.

FAQs

The Panchachuli Base Camp Trek is located at Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand. The trek starts from Dar, which is 42 kms from Dharchula. You can reach Kathgodham to start this beautiful trek.

The panchachuli base camp trek itinerary is easy to moderate and is one of the best treks to try even if you are a beginner. It is recommended to prepare yourself before the trek with a few exercises like walking with a weighted bag, running, and leg exercises a few weeks before the trek.

May to June is the best time to do the Panchachuli Base Camp Trek. You can witness beautiful vibrant green meadows, blooming flowers, and forests throughout your trek during this time.

The Panchachuli Base Camp Trek has an altitude of 4260 mts.