The Pangarchulla Peak trek is a real mountain climb. It is not just a long walk, you climb a mountain peak here. This peak belongs to Nandadevi National park in Gharwal region of Uttarakhand. The trek is difficult. You need both mental and good physical fitness. It gives you huge, clear views of famous Himalayan peaks. Think of it as a solid step up from standard high altitude routes. If you have done the Kuari Pass, this is the next level. It is one of the most challenging best treks in Uttarakhand. But the views from the top are worth the effort.
Best Time to Do Pangarchulla Trek
The best times are spring and autumn.
Spring (April to May): You will see a lot of snow. The climb is harder. But the snow on the peaks looks great. Rhododendrons bloom in the lower areas.
Autumn (September to October): The sky is very clear. You get the best views of the mountains. The weather is stable. This is a very popular time.
Avoid the monsoon season. The trails get too slippery.
Difficulty Level of Pangarchulla Trek
This trek is Moderate to Difficult.
It is a physically demanding trek. The peak climb itself is tough. You go from the campsite to the summit and back in one day. That is a long climb. The air is thin at the top. You need good fitness. You must have experience walking on snow or ice if you go in spring. This is not for your first high altitude trek.
Highlights of Pangarchulla Trek
This is a true peak summit. You are actually climbing a mountain. It is not just a high pass.
You get massive views of the great Himalayan peaks. You will see Nanda Devi, Hathi Parbat, Ghori Parbat, Kamet, Dronagiri, and Chaukhamba. The views are some of the best treks in India can offer.
You follow some of the classic Kuari Pass trails. It is a famous route used by Lord Curzon a long time ago.
Short Itinerary of Pangarchulla Trek
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Joshimath.
This is a long drive of 290 km. It gained height from 1190 ft to 6200 ft. This drive is very scenic. The drive passes through four prayags, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag and Nandaprayag.
Day 2: Drive to Dhak. Then start the trek to Guling.
It is a 2.5 km to 3 km trek. Takes through from coniferous forest and with steep trails. You will reach a height of 9,373 ft.
Day 3: Trek from Guling to Khulara camp.
This trail takes you to Lord Curzon trail, from where you will get the view of Chaukhamba, Dronagiri, Nilgiri, Hathi Gauri Parvat.
Day 4: Trek from Khulara to Pangarchulla Peak. Come back down to Khulara. This day is very tough.
This is your summit day, in which you walk around 15-16 km total. The highest you gain is around 14000ft. Today you will walk on a ridge and get a view of both sides of the mountain.
Day 5: Trek from Khulara back to Dhak. Drive to Joshimath for the night.
With the same route we descend down Dhak, then drive to Joshimath and overnight stay in Joshimath.
Day 6: Drive from Joshimath back to Dehradun.
The trek is finished.
Conclusion
The Pangarchulla Peak trek is a serious trip. It asks a lot from you. And also you can plan Kuari Pass trek with this trip, it can be your combo trek. But it rewards you with views few people ever see. Prepare well for this one. It is a major highlight of trekking in Uttarakhand. If you are ready for a challenge, this is the one to pick.
FAQs
Can I do the Pangarchulla trek without any guide ?
No, you should hire a guide and recommend doing it with any trekking organization.
What is the height of Pangarchulla Peak Trek?
The elevation of the peak is about 15,069 feet or 4,593 meters.
Do I need a permit for this trek?
Yes. You need a permit to enter the Nanda Devi National Park area. Your trek operator will usually handle this.