Why Pangarchulla Is A Must Do Trek
At Pangarchulla, which graces the Lord Curzon circuit, one of the most famous tracks in the Garhwal Himalayas. The top of the chimney rises into view. At 1,700 feet, the peak offers climbers a perfect test of non-technical climbing skills. Although this Uttarakhand trek is accessible throughout the year, the winter snow makes it truly unbeatable. If the thrill is directly proportional to the challenge, the winter Pangarchulla Peak Trek would be a journey that the brave hearts simply cannot afford!
seven day trek
The seven day trek takes you along the pilgrimage route of Uttarakhand from Haridwar to Joshimath where we have our base camp. A little further, from the village of Dhak, our walk along the rocky paths begins. As you climb, the horizon opens up to cliff-side villages characterized by terraced land and gabled houses leading to green meadows surrounded by the distinctive peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas. Notable are Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Hati-Ghori ,Barmal. The Pangarchulla trail belonging to the Nanda Devi shrine never misses these famous peaks and finally culminates at the top of the glistening snowy views of the festival.
About Trek
Pangarchu has a tough climb to the top which is suitable for adventure enthusiasts who are always looking for the next thrill. The 7 day trip starts from Haridwar from where you will travel to Joshimath. The trek starts from Dhak village which is a small distance from Joshimath. So Joshimath is the base of your trip. The trek takes place in the Nanda Devi National Park and as such the mountain views on this trek are simply epic. From Dhak we start the trek to Gulling Top, this is the first day in the mountains. The trip offers amazing mountain scenery and stays with you all the way to the top. The meadows of Pangarchulla are covered with snow during the winter months and you pass through oak, deodar, chestnut forests and maples. From Gulling, the trek continues to Camp I where we pitch a tent and the next day we trek from Camp I to Kuari Peak and descend back to Camp I. The next day is your peak day as you trek from Camp I. Pangarchulla Peak via Khullara and return to Camp I. Nanda Devi Hill, Trishul, Changbang and other peaks rise creating mesmerizing sights.
The next day you descend the mountains and walk on the last day you descend from Camp to Dhak village and drive to Joshimath. We stay at Joshimath, the next day we go to Haridwar where the trip ends with many happy memories.
What to Expect on the Trek
Pangarchu is a moderate trek, so a certain level of fitness is essential. if you want to really enjoy the experience. From the top you get a 360° view of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi (7816 m), Hathi Parat (6727 m), Ghodi Parvat (6708 m), Kamet (7756 m) and Dronagiri (7066 m). Spring is the perfect time to do the Pangarchulla Trek . the weather is usually sunny during the day and mildly cool in the evening. But the temperature drops exponentially after sunset. The daytime temperature in Pangarchulla is approximately 15 °C, while the night temperature can drop to -5 °C or below. So wear plenty of warm layers as the nights can be chilly. Sometimes there can be unexpected surprise rains in Pangarchulla, so you have to be prepared for that too.
Highlights
Trekking Pangarchulla –
The chimney is full of riches of Himalayan glory, here’s what to expect:
Flora and Fauna – The trail is full of blood red rhododendrons up to the start of the snow line. The roads are lined with plenty of oak, silver birch, blue pine and Bhojpatra – known for producing papyrus bark. The wild animals common here consist of musk deer, black bear and Himalayan Tahr. Seeking answers to geological questions? Start with, ‘How much does the rock weigh?
A Ridge Climb Summit Day –
A steep ridge that takes you to the summit on summit day is an arduous but very rewarding feature of this hike. The climb becomes difficult and full of adrenaline. The snow spread on the road adds to that unparalleled feeling of discovery like no other. Unbound snow on risk-free slopes – One of the dominant features of your winter adventure to the summit of Pangarchulla is the softness of the snow. In most cases, powder-covered slopes offer a climb without the risk of death on the last lap of the climb thanks to a cushion. These gently curving slopes have a ski slope quality. It is perfect for enjoying the joys of snowy winter Himalayas without dying. It is also ideal for your enjoyment if you have skiing experience.