Basecamp
Sankri
Duration
8 Days
Max. Altitude
11,811 ft.
Distance
54 Kms
Grade
Moderate
Pickup/Drop
Dehradun
Ruinsara Trek Overview
The Ruinsara Tal Trek is a stunning and offbeat trek in Uttarakhand, nestled in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park near Sankri. Located at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,483 ft), this hidden Himalayan lake trek offers a perfect blend of alpine meadows, dense forests, river crossings, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini, Black Peak (Kalanag), and Bandarpunch.
Starting from Sankri village, the same base as Kedarkantha and Har Ki Dun, the trail takes you through remote Himalayan villages like Taluka, Osla, and Seema, scenic forest trails filled with oak, deodar, and rhododendron, and the breathtaking alpine meadow of Devsu Thatch, before reaching the pristine Ruinsara Lake. The turquoise-blue lake reflects the mighty peaks around it, making it one of the most beautiful glacial lakes in Uttarakhand.
This 7-day moderate trek is ideal for fit beginners, solo trekkers, and offbeat adventure lovers looking for a quiet, less-commercial Himalayan experience. With its mythological significance tied to the Mahabharata (the Pandavas are said to have taken this route to Swargarohini), the Ruinsara Tal Trek is both spiritually rich and scenically unmatched.
Whether you’re searching for the best offbeat treks in Uttarakhand, treks near Sankri, or peaceful lake treks in the Himalayas, Ruinsara Tal stands out for its raw beauty, cultural richness, and solitude.
Quick Facts – Ruinsara Tal Trek
Trek Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Trek Distance: ~45–50 km round trip
Maximum Altitude: 3,500 m (11,483 ft)
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Base Village: Sankri
Region: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
Best Time to Visit: Mid-April to June & Mid-September to November
Starting Point: Dehradun → Sankri → Taluka
Ruinsara Trek Short Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (Base Village)
Distance: ~200 km
Time: 8–9 hours
Altitude Gain: 640 m (Dehradun – 640 m) → 1,950 m (Sankri)
Route: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Nainbagh → Purola → Mori → Netwar → Sankri
Day 2: Sankri to Taluka (Drive) & Trek to Seema via Gangaad/Osla
Drive Distance: 12 km (Sankri to Taluka by vehicle)
Trek Distance: ~12 km
Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude Gain: 1,950 m → 2,400 m (Seema)
Route: Taluka → Gangaad → Osla → Seema
Day 3: Seema to Devsu Thatch Campsite
Trek Distance: ~7 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Altitude Gain: 2,400 m → 3,000 m
Highlights: Beautiful forested trails, alpine meadows, views of Swargarohini & Black Peak
Day 4: Devsu Thatch to Ruinsara Tal
Trek Distance: ~8 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Altitude Gain: 3,000 m → 3,500 m
Highlights: Magnificent Ruinsara Lake, glacier-fed waters, serene alpine surroundings
Day 5: Exploration Day at Ruinsara Tal
Activities: Acclimatization, photography, meditation, and rest
Optional Hike: Explore nearby ridges or glaciers with panoramic views of Swargarohini
Day 6: Ruinsara Tal to Seema (Return Trek)
Trek Distance: ~15 km
Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude Loss: 3,500 m → 2,400 m
Route: Retrace steps via Devsu Thatch
Day 7: Seema to Taluka (Trek) & Drive to Sankri
Trek Distance: ~12 km
Drive Distance: 12 km
Time: Trek (5–6 hrs) + Drive (30–45 min)
Route: Seema → Osla → Taluka → Sankri
Day 8: Sankri to Dehradun (Drive)
Distance: ~200 km
Time: 8–9 hours
Altitude Loss: 1,950 m → 640 m
Route: Sankri → Netwar → Mori → Purola → Nainbagh → Mussoorie → Dehradun
Ruinsara Trek Detailed Itinerary
Distance: ~200 km
Duration: 8–9 hours by road
Altitude Gain: 640 m (Dehradun – 640 m) → 1,950 m (Sankri)
Route Covered: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Nainbagh → Purola → Mori → Netwar → Sankri
Your journey to the Ruinsara Tal Trek begins from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand and a well-connected hub by train, bus, and air. The road trip from Dehradun to Sankri, which is the base village for Ruinsara Tal Trek, is around 200 km and takes approximately 8 to 9 hours through the picturesque Garhwal Himalayas.
After assembling at the designated pickup point (usually ISBT Dehradun or Dehradun Railway Station) early in the morning, you’ll board a shared private vehicle (Tempo Traveller or Bolero) that will take you through some of the most scenic towns and villages of Uttarakhand.
As you leave Dehradun, the road climbs towards Mussoorie, offering glimpses of the Shivalik hills and Doon Valley. The journey then continues along the winding mountain roads via Nainbagh, Purola, and Mori—small yet culturally rich Himalayan hamlets with apple orchards, pine forests, and riverside settlements. You will drive alongside the Tons River, the largest tributary of the Yamuna, which flows with a roaring current and adds a sense of adventure to the drive.
Passing through Netwar, the entrance to Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, you’ll eventually reach Sankri, a charming village nestled at an altitude of 1,950 meters. Sankri is a popular starting point for several treks like Har Ki Dun, Kedarkantha, and Bali Pass, and serves as the gateway to the scenic Ruinsara Valley.
On reaching Sankri by evening, check into a cozy homestay or guesthouse. Enjoy a hot meal, meet your trek leader and fellow trekkers, and rest well to acclimatize to the altitude. You’ll also get a short briefing about the upcoming trek days, safety protocols, and gear check.
Drive Distance: ~12 km
Trek Distance: ~10 km
Duration: 6–7 hours total (1-hour drive + 5–6 hours trek)
Altitude Gain: 1,950 m (Sankri) → 2,560 m (Seema)
Route Covered: Sankri → Taluka (by vehicle) → Gangaad → Seema (on foot)
After a hearty breakfast in Sankri village, begin your day with a scenic drive to Taluka, a remote village located about 12 km away. This road journey, though bumpy and narrow, is incredibly rewarding as it passes through dense forests of deodar, oak, and bamboo, crossing streams and small waterfalls along the way.
Upon reaching Taluka (2,100 m), the trekking adventure begins. The trail to Seema is a gentle ascent along the banks of the Tons River, which keeps you company throughout the day. You’ll pass through picturesque Himalayan villages like Gangaad, where traditional wooden houses and terraced fields showcase the lifestyle of the local communities.
The trail offers an incredible blend of nature and culture—expect to walk through thick forest canopies, open meadows, and over rustic wooden bridges. Keep an eye out for Himalayan birds, langurs, and if lucky, even a barking deer. This region lies within the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, a protected area rich in biodiversity.
After trekking for about 5–6 hours, you’ll reach Seema, a small campsite located near the Osla village (on the opposite side of the river). The altitude here is around 2,560 meters, offering cool weather and pristine surroundings. Camp is set up in alpine tents with sleeping bags and mats provided. After settling in, enjoy your evening tea and hot dinner under a sky full of stars.
Trek Distance: ~7 km
Duration: 4–5 hours
Altitude Gain: 2,560 m (Seema) → 3,000 m (Devsu Thatch)
Route Covered: Seema → Devsu Thatch
Wake up to the fresh aroma of pine forests and the calming sound of the Tons River. After a wholesome breakfast at Seema campsite, today’s journey takes you to the stunning alpine meadow of Devsu Thatch—often considered one of the most scenic parts of the Ruinsara Tal Trek.
The trail begins with a steep ascent right from the Seema campsite. You’ll climb through dense coniferous forests of deodar, spruce, and maple. The path is filled with sharp switchbacks and moss-covered boulders but offers breathtaking views once you reach the top of the ridge.
After the climb, the trail opens up into an expansive lush green meadow—Devsu Thatch—perched at around 3,000 meters. This place is a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning panoramic views of the Swargarohini peaks, Black Peak (Kalanag), and Banderpoonch range.
The meadow blooms with wildflowers in the summer and remains blanketed in snow during early spring and late autumn. It’s the perfect spot for rest, acclimatization, and soaking in the grandeur of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Tents will be pitched in the wide grassy expanse, and your evening will be spent enjoying warm meals, storytelling around the bonfire (if weather permits), and stargazing in the crystal-clear night sky.
Trek Distance: ~10 km
Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude Gain: 3,000 m (Devsu Thatch) → 3,500 m (Ruinsara Tal)
Route Covered: Devsu Thatch → River Crossing → Dense Forest Trail → Alpine Zone → Ruinsara Tal
Today is the most awaited and visually rewarding day of the Ruinsara Tal Trek. You will leave the serene alpine meadow of Devsu Thatch and head towards the mystical Ruinsara Lake—a high-altitude glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and steep ridgelines of the Garhwal Himalayas.
The trek begins with a gradual descent through dense pine and rhododendron forests, followed by a scenic river crossing over a wooden bridge built by local villagers. As you gain altitude, the forest slowly thins out and gives way to vast stretches of moraine and alpine terrain, bringing you closer to the glacial basin.
The final stretch of the trek is through open grasslands and rocky moraines, and with every step, the majestic views get grander. Soon, you’ll arrive at the pristine Ruinsara Tal, located at an altitude of approximately 3,500 meters. The lake is set amidst towering snow-laden peaks like Swargarohini I–IV, Black Peak (Kalanag), and Bandarpunch.
According to local legends, Ruinsara Tal is a sacred lake associated with the Pandavas from Mahabharata, believed to have passed through here on their way to Swargarohini—the stairway to heaven.
Once you reach the campsite near the lake, soak in the silence, peace, and panoramic beauty. Enjoy your packed lunch by the lakeside and explore the surrounding ridges and viewpoints. Sunset over the peaks reflects magically on the calm, mirror-like waters of Ruinsara Tal.
Evening meals will be served hot, and you will camp here overnight under the stars with majestic Himalayan giants watching over you.
Trek Distance: ~10 km
Duration: 4–5 hours
Altitude Loss: 3,500 m (Ruinsara Tal) → 3,000 m (Devsu Thatch)
Route Covered: Ruinsara Tal → Alpine Meadows → Forest Trail → Devsu Thatch
After a peaceful and awe-inspiring night near the sacred Ruinsara Lake, you will begin your descent back toward Devsu Thatch, retracing the same route. This day provides a new perspective of the majestic terrain, with the morning light illuminating the peaks of Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and Kalanag in a golden hue.
The initial walk is through rocky moraines and open alpine valleys, with panoramic views all around. As you begin to descend, you’ll re-enter the dense forest zone filled with towering pine trees and blooming rhododendrons, especially vibrant during the summer season.
Devsu Thatch feels different on your return—quieter, familiar, and comforting. This lush alpine meadow is one of the highlights of the Ruinsara Tal Trek, and it serves as a perfect place to reflect on your journey so far. The campsite offers a beautiful sunset view, and the soothing sound of the nearby Supin River makes for a peaceful evening.
Dinner will be served hot at the campsite. Overnight stay in tents under the starry Himalayan sky.
Trek Distance: ~12 km
Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude Loss: 3,000 m (Devsu Thatch) → 2,500 m (Seema)
Route Covered: Devsu Thatch → Forest Trail → Taluka → Seema Campsite
On Day 6 of the Ruinsara Tal Trek, you’ll continue descending from Devsu Thatch to Seema village, passing through the dense pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and open valleys that define the beauty of the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park.
The trail is relatively easier but long, winding through thick forest sections that are home to Himalayan birds, langurs, and sometimes the elusive Himalayan Monal. As you descend, the temperature rises gradually and the vegetation becomes denser, especially around the Taluka region.
Taluka is a tiny village with a few dhabas and shops. It’s also the last motorable point for this trek, although you will continue the short stretch on foot to Seema. Many trekkers enjoy a break at Taluka to sip tea or grab a quick snack before resuming the walk.
Once you reach Seema, you will set up camp near the village, surrounded by green terraced fields and traditional wooden homes. The peaceful atmosphere of this village gives a deeper insight into the culture of Uttarakhand’s remote Himalayan communities.
Enjoy your evening with stories around the campsite, hearty meals, and warm hospitality from the trek staff.
Trek Distance: ~14 km
Trek Time: 5–6 hours
Drive Distance: ~12 km (Taluka to Sankri)
Altitude Loss: 2,500 m (Seema) → 1,950 m (Sankri)
Route: Seema → Taluka (Trek) → Sankri (Drive)
On Day 7 of the Ruinsara Tal Trek, your journey takes you back from the peaceful Himalayan village of Seema to the base village Sankri. The trail begins with a beautiful descent alongside the Tons River, retracing your steps through lush oak and deodar forests, wooden bridges, and narrow stone paths.
As you pass through the scenic forests, you’ll revisit the vibrant village of Taluka, where trekkers often pause for a short break. This portion of the trek is gentle and relaxing, filled with melodious bird calls and glimpses of local village life.
Once at Taluka, a vehicle will be arranged for a short and scenic drive to Sankri, your trek’s base point. The 12 km road journey offers one last view of the Uttarkashi region’s raw beauty — think winding roads, river crossings, and views of distant snow-capped peaks.
Upon reaching Sankri, you’ll check into your homestay or guesthouse. This final evening is a time to unwind, celebrate the successful completion of your trek to Ruinsara Tal, and soak in the peace of this quaint Himalayan village.
Drive Distance: ~200 km
Drive Time: 8–9 hours
Altitude Loss: 1,950 m (Sankri) → 640 m (Dehradun)
Route: Sankri → Netwar → Mori → Purola → Nainbagh → Mussoorie → Dehradun
Your final day of the Ruinsara Tal Trek begins early in the morning from Sankri, the base village nestled in the lap of the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. After breakfast, you’ll board your pre-arranged shared/private vehicle and start the scenic drive to Dehradun.
The journey takes you through a diverse landscape of pine forests, mountain ridges, and river valleys. As you descend from the high Himalayas, you’ll pass quaint hill towns like Netwar, Mori, and Purola, where apple orchards and terraced farms line the roads.
Crossing Nainbagh and the colonial hill station of Mussoorie, the route offers beautiful views of the Garhwal region. You’ll descend steadily in altitude, watching the Himalayan peaks fade into the distance as you return to the bustle of Dehradun.
Expected arrival time in Dehradun is between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. It is advisable to pre-book your return train or bus tickets accordingly, or plan an overnight stay in the city before heading back to your home destination.
Ruinsara Trek Package Cost Includes
Transportation
Pick-up and drop from Dehradun to Sankri and return in a shared private vehicle (Tempo Traveller/Bolero)
Designated pick-up and drop points: Dehradun Railway Station or ISBT Dehradun
Accommodation
Day 1 (Sankri): Stay in a homestay or guesthouse (twin/triple sharing)
Day 2 to Day 7 (Trek Days): Stay in alpine tents (2/3 person sharing)
High-quality sleeping bags, foam mattresses, and snow/waterproof tents provided
Meals (Vegetarian & Nutritious)
All meals from Day 1 Dinner to Day 8 Breakfast included
Meals include: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner, and Hot Soup
Tea/Coffee served twice a day
Hygienic, energy-rich food such as: dal, rice, roti, vegetables, khichdi, pasta, upma, poha, and more
Trekking Equipment
Waterproof alpine tents and dining tent setup
-10°C sleeping bags and thick foam sleeping mats
Gaiters and crampons (if snow conditions require)
Trekking poles and headlamps (limited availability, on request)
Experienced Trek Team
Certified Trek Leader (trained in Wilderness First Aid and mountain safety)
Local guide(s) with deep knowledge of the Ruinsara trail and region
Support staff including cook, helpers, and porters for common gear
Safety & First Aid
Regular health checks with oximeter
Basic first-aid kit and high-altitude sickness protocols followed
Oxygen cylinder available in emergency situations
Emergency backup evacuation plan (charges extra if used)
Permits & Forest Entry Fees
Entry fee for Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
All applicable forest permits, environmental fees, camping charges, and state taxes included
Ruinsara Trek Package Cost Excludes
Travel from your city to Dehradun and return
Meals during travel from Dehradun to Sankri and back
Personal expenses like snacks, cold drinks, or bottled water
Backpack offloading charges (if you don’t want to carry your own bag)
Trekking gear like shoes, jackets, poles, or headlamps
Tips to staff, guides, or drivers (optional)
Emergency evacuation or medical costs (if needed)
Insurance of any kind (travel or medical)
Anything not mentioned in the “Package Cost Includes” section
RuinsaraTrek Package Cost
Sankri To Sankri
₹ 10,500/- PP
₹ 8,999/- PP
- 7 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Dehradun To Dehradun
₹ 12,500/- PP
₹ 10,999/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Dehradun
- 7 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Delhi To Delhi
₹ 15,500/- PP
₹ 13,999/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Delhi
- 7 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Ruinsara<span Trek Fix Dates
November
10 Nov - 14 Nov
15 Nov - 19 Nov
22 Nov - 27 Nov
25 Nov - 29 Nov
Available
Available
Available
Available
December
1Dec - 5 Dec
5 Dec - 9 Dec
8 Dec - 12 Dec
10 Dec - 14 Dec
15 Dec - 19 Dec
18 Dec - 22 Dec
22 Dec - 26 Dec
25 Dec - 29 Dec
26 Dec - 30 Dec
27 Dec - 31 Dec
28 Dec - 1 Jan
29 Dec - 2 Jan
30 Dec - 3 Jan
31Dec - 4 Jan
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
January
2 Jan - 7 Jan
5 Jan - 12 Jan
8 Jan - 13 Jan
10 Jan - 15 Jan
13 Jan - 18 Jan
15 Jan - 20 Jan
18 Jan - 23 Jan
20 Jan - 25 Jan
22 Jan - 27 Jan
24 Jan - 29 Jan
25 Jan - 30 Jan
28 Jan - 1 Feb
30 Jan - 4 Feb
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
February
2 Feb - 7 Feb
5 Feb - 9 Feb
9 Feb - 14 Feb
11 Feb - 18 Feb
15 Feb - 19 Feb
19 Feb - 24 Feb
21 Feb - 26 Feb
25 Feb - 1 Mar
28 Feb - 4 Mar
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
March
3 Mar - 8 Mar
5 Mar - 10 Mar
9 Mar - 14 Mar
11 Mar - 16 Mar
15 Mar - 20 Mar
18 Mar - 23 Mar
22 Mar - 27 Mar
26 Mar - 1 Apr
30 Mar - 3 Apr
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
April
1 Apr - 6 Apr
10 Apr - 15 Apr
12 Apr - 17 Apr
18 Apr - 23 Apr
25 Apr - 30 Apr
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
How To Reach Ruinsara
Step-by-Step Guide to Reach Ruinsara Trek
1. Reach Dehradun (Uttarakhand) – The Nearest Major City
By Air:
Jolly Grant Airport (DED), Dehradun is the nearest airport.
Well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Jaipur
From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Sankri or reach ISBT Dehradun for a shared vehicle.
By Train:
Dehradun Railway Station is connected to major Indian cities.
Popular trains: Nanda Devi Express, Mussoorie Express, Dehradun Shatabdi
Direct trains available from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Haridwar
By Bus/Car:
Overnight Volvo and government buses run from Delhi (Kashmere Gate ISBT) to Dehradun.
Travel time: 6–8 hours from Delhi
2. Dehradun to Sankri (Base Village)
Distance: 210 km
Travel Time: 8–10 hours
Options:
Private cabs (₹5,000–6,000 per vehicle)
Shared taxis from Dehradun Railway Station or Parade Ground (₹700–800/person)
Bus service from Mussoorie Bus Stand (early morning, limited seats)
3. Final Stretch: Sankri to Trek Starting Point
The trek starts right from Sankri village.
No further travel is needed once you reach here.
Accommodation and gear rental available in Sankri.
Summary – How to Reach Ruinsara Trek
| Route | Mode | Distance & Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Dehradun | Train / Flight / Bus | ~250 km – 6 to 8 hours |
| Dehradun to Sankri | Road (cab / bus) | 210 km – 8 to 10 hours |
| Sankri to Trek Start | On foot | 0 km – Trek begins from Sankri |
Recommended Route from Major Cities
From Delhi to Ruinsara:
Delhi → Dehradun (overnight train/bus) → Sankri (shared cab)From Mumbai to Ruinsara:
Mumbai → Dehradun (flight/train via Delhi) → SankriFrom Bangalore to Ruinsara:
Bangalore → Dehradun (flight via Delhi) → Sankri
Ruinsara Trek Booking Policy
- Booking is confirmed only after receiving a minimum 30% advance payment
Balance amount to be paid at pickup time.
Payment Options
Online payment via UPI / Bank Transfer / Net Banking / Debit & Credit Cards
Payment receipt will be shared via email or WhatsApp for confirmation
Ruinsara Trek Cancellation Policy
- 90% refund if cancelled 30+ days before trek date
- 70% refund if cancelled 15–29 days before trek
- 50% refund if cancelled 7–14 days before trek
- No refund if cancelled less than 7 days before trek or no-show
Ruinsara Trek Essentials
The Ruinsara Tal Trek is a moderately challenging Himalayan trek that takes you through remote villages, alpine meadows, and scenic valleys of Uttarakhand. To ensure your journey is safe and comfortable, carrying the right trek essentials is crucial. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned hiker, here’s a complete checklist of what you need to pack for the Ruinsara Tal Trek.
Base Layer (thermal innerwear – top and bottom)
2–3 Full sleeve quick-dry T-shirts (avoid cotton)
2 Insulating Layers (fleece/wool sweaters or light down jacket)
1 Heavy Feather Jacket / Padded Jacket (for summit day)
2 Trek Pants (quick-dry; avoid jeans)
1 Windproof & Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
Thermal Track Pants (for nights)
Warm Innerwear & Undergarments (at least 2–3 pairs)
1 pair of high-ankle trekking shoes (snow/water-resistant)
1 pair of slippers / sandals for campsite use
Optional: Gaiters (for heavy snow)
Trekking backpack (40–50L) with rain cover
Daypack (10–15L) for summit day
Trekking pole (highly recommended)
Headlamp / torch with spare batteries
Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration bladder
Sunglasses (UV-protected)
Power bank
Ziplock / dry bags for organizing
Optional: Camera or GoPro
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Biodegradable soap / face wash
Lip balm (essential for cold cracks)
Cold cream / moisturizer
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Quick-dry towel
Toilet paper / tissues
Hand sanitizer
Menstrual hygiene products (as required)
Wet wipes (optional but useful)
Paracetamol / Ibuprofen
Diamox (only after doctor’s advice)
Band-aids / blister patches
Antiseptic cream
Crepe bandage
Personal medication
ORS / Glucose / Electrolyte powder
Original Government ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, Voter ID)
Medical fitness certificate (if required by trek operator)
Trek disclaimer form (provided by operator)
Trek booking confirmation / permit copy (if applicable)
Ruinsara Trek Fitness
Fitness for Ruinsara Tal Trek – Are You Trek-Ready?
The Ruinsara Tal Trek is a moderate to difficult trek in the Uttarkashi region of Uttarakhand. Spanning over 7–8 days and reaching an altitude of around 3,500 meters (11,500 ft), the trek requires a good level of physical and mental fitness. Whether you’re a beginner stepping into multi-day trekking or an experienced hiker, preparing your body in advance is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey.
Physical Fitness Requirements
Cardiovascular Endurance:
You’ll be trekking 6–10 km each day. Start jogging or brisk walking 4–5 km daily for at least a month before the trek.Leg and Core Strength:
The trail has steep ascents, rocky paths, and snow (depending on season). Include squats, lunges, planks, and step-ups in your routine.Flexibility and Balance:
Add stretching and yoga to prevent muscle strain and improve balance on uneven terrain.Acclimatization Ability:
Since the trek touches high altitudes, your body should adapt gradually. Avoid exertion on the first day and stay hydrated.
Pre-Trek Fitness Plan (1 Month Before)
| Days/Week | Activity |
|---|---|
| 5 Days | Brisk walking/jogging (4–6 km) |
| 3 Days | Strength training (bodyweight exercises, squats, lunges, planks) |
| 2 Days | Stair climbing (20–30 mins) |
| Daily | Stretching or yoga (15–20 mins) |
Anyone aged 12 to 55 years with decent physical fitness
Beginners with prior preparation of at least 1 month
Trekkers who’ve completed moderate Himalayan treks before (like Kedarkantha, Har Ki Dun)
Health Tips for the Trek
Hydrate well (minimum 3–4 liters a day)
Avoid alcohol, smoking, and high caffeine before and during the trek
Get a basic medical check-up before starting
Carry a personal medical kit with high-altitude medicines
Ruinsara Trek FAQ's
Is Ruinsara Tal trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Ruinsara Tal Trek is moderately challenging but manageable for beginners with good fitness levels and prior hiking experience.
What is the best time to visit Ruinsara Tal?
The best time for Ruinsara Tal Trek is from May to June and September to mid-October, when the weather is clear and the trails are accessible.
How difficult is the Ruinsara Tal Trek?
Ruinsara Tal is considered a moderate trek due to its gradual altitude gain, scenic forest trails, and manageable distances.
Where does the Ruinsara Tal Trek start from?
The trek begins from Sankri village, a base camp also used for Har Ki Dun and Kedarkantha treks.
What is the altitude of Ruinsara Lake?
Ruinsara Tal is located at an altitude of 3,600 meters (11,811 ft) in the Govind Pashu Vihar Sanctuary.
How long is the Ruinsara Tal Trek?
The trek usually takes 6–7 days, covering approximately 55–60 km round trip from Sankri.
Can I do Ruinsara Tal Trek solo?
While technically possible, it’s highly recommended to go with a guided group due to remote terrain and limited resources.
Are permits required for Ruinsara Tal Trek?
Yes, permits are mandatory to enter the Govind National Park, which are usually arranged by trek organizers.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Accommodation includes homestays in Sankri and alpine tents during the trek with basic sleeping arrangements.
Is mobile network available on Ruinsara Tal Trek?
Mobile networks are available in Sankri, but no connectivity is available once you start the trek.
What should I pack for Ruinsara Tal Trek?
Essentials include trekking shoes, warm clothes, waterproof jacket, headlamp, personal medications, and trekking poles.
Can I combine Har Ki Dun and Ruinsara Tal treks?
Yes, many itineraries combine both treks for a 10–12 day adventure through the Himalayas.
What is the weather like on the Ruinsara Tal Trek?
Daytime temperatures are mild (10–15°C), while nights can drop to 0°C or below, especially in May and October.
Is the Ruinsara Tal Trek crowded?
Compared to popular trails like Kedarkantha or Valley of Flowers, Ruinsara Tal is a secluded and less-crowded trek.
What wildlife can be seen on the Ruinsara Tal route?
Trekkers may spot musk deer, Himalayan langurs, monals, and even black bears in the protected forest area.
Which is best travel company for Ruinsara trek?
Solo Hike is Sankri, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand based trevel company, providing Ruinsara trek services since 10 years. Solo Hike help you to get the package from Sankri, Dehradun and even from Delhi too, with best and affordable prices.
RUINSARA TREK PHOTOS
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