Basecamp
Sankri
Duration
5 Days
Max. Altitude
13,120 ft.
Distance
20 Kms
Grade
Moderate
Pickup/Drop
Dehradun
Chari Top Trek Overview
The Chari Top Trek is a breathtaking high-altitude trek in Uttarakhand, India, renowned for its pristine alpine meadows, dense pine and oak forests, and panoramic Himalayan views. Rising to around 4,000 meters (13,120 ft), this trek offers a perfect combination of adventure, nature, and solitude, making it an ideal choice for trekking enthusiasts and photographers alike.
The trail passes through quaint villages, terraced fields, and lush forests, giving trekkers a chance to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the Garhwal region. From Chari Top, you can enjoy spectacular sunrise and sunset views over prominent peaks such as Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Kedarkantha, and Bandarpoonch, providing memorable vistas for every nature lover.
This moderate to challenging trek is suitable for trekkers with a basic level of fitness and a sense of adventure. Along the way, you will encounter river crossings, boulder paths, and gentle snowfields, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. The trek is also perfect for solo travelers, small groups, and photography enthusiasts, seeking an offbeat Himalayan experience away from crowded trails.
Best Season: April to June and September to October for clear skies, pleasant weather, and ideal trekking conditions.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Altitude: 4,000 meters (13,120 ft)
Whether you are seeking adventure trekking, nature exploration, or a peaceful escape into the Himalayas, the Chari Top Trek promises an unforgettable Himalayan experience, blending natural beauty, cultural encounters, and thrilling high-altitude trekking.
Chari Top 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 Juda Ka Talab
Distance: ~4 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Altitude Gain: 1,950 m → 2,700 m
Route: Sankri → Dense pine & oak forest trail → Juda Ka Talab campsite
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab To Kedarkantha Base Camp
Distance: ~3.5 km
Time: 3–4 hours
Altitude Gain: 2,700 m → 3,430 m
Route: Juda Ka Talab → Gradual ascent through forest & clearings → Kedarkantha Base
Day 4: Base Camp To Kedarkantha Summit → Descend To Juda Ka Talab
Distance: ~6 km (3 km ascent + 3 km descent)
Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude: 3,430 m → 3,800 m (Summit) → 2,700 m (Juda Ka Talab)
Route: Base Camp → Kedarkantha Summit → Return via summit ridge → Juda Ka Talab campsite
Day 5: Juda Ka Talab To Sankri → Drive To Dehradun
Distance (Trek): ~4 km | Drive: ~200 km
Time: 2–3 hours (trek) + 8–9 hours (drive)
Altitude Loss: 2,700 m → 1,950 m (Sankri) → 640 m (Dehradun)
Route: Juda Ka Talab → Sankri → Netwar → Purola → Mussoorie → Dehradun
Chari Top Trek Detailed Itinerary
- Distance: 210 km
- Time: 8–10 hours
- Altitude Gain: 640 m (Dehradun) → 1,950 m (Sankri)
- Route: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Nainbagh → Damta → Purola → Mori → Netwar → Sankri
The journey kicks off from Dehradun Railway Station early morning. As you exit the city, you ascend towards Mussoorie via Rajpur Road and enjoy glimpses of the Doon Valley. Past Mussoorie, the route passes through Nainbagh, a key junction connecting Yamunotri and Purola.
From Damta to Purola, the air gets cooler and the hills steeper. Here you enter the Jaunsar-Bawar tribal belt, famous for its traditional wood-carved houses. Post Purola, mobile networks vanish, offering an offline escape.
You then descend to the Tons River, crossing Mori, a popular rafting destination. Just ahead lies Netwar, home to the ancient Pokhu Devta temple, and the entry point to the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. The final climb through pine-clad ridges brings you to Sankri, a picturesque village that serves as the base camp for Kedarkantha trek. Wooden houses, local dhabas, and views of snow-peaked mountains set the mood for the trek.
- Distance: 4 km
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Altitude Gain: 1,950 m → 2,700 m
- Route: Sankri → Sor → Kedarkantha Trail Gate → Dense Oak Forest → Juda Ka Talab
You begin your trek from Sankri village after breakfast. The initial walk passes through Sor village, a small hamlet with traditional Himachali homes. After 15 minutes, you reach the trail gate of Kedarkantha Trek, marked with a forest checkpoint and a wooden arch.
The trek then climbs steadily through dense pine, maple, and oak forests. The sound of birds, whistling air, and occasional sightings of langurs or barking deer enrich the experience. Depending on the season, you’ll cross small wooden bridges over snow-fed streams.
Midway, there’s a small clearing near a shepherd’s hut—an ideal spot for rest and water refill. As you gain height, the forest thickens, and the temperature drops.
Suddenly, the trees open up to reveal the ethereal Juda Ka Talab — a glacial lake that freezes in winter. Surrounded by centuries-old pine trees, the lake has a deep legend: it’s believed that Lord Shiva once opened his hair locks (Juda) here, creating the twin lakes — one visible and one underground. The area also has a clearing for camping, ideal for star-gazing and night photography.
- Distance: 3.5 km
- Time: 3–4 hours
- Altitude Gain: 2,700 m → 3,430 m
- Route: Juda Ka Talab → Switchback Trail through Oak Trees → Open Meadow Ridge → Kedarkantha Base Camp
This day’s trek is a gradual ascent through varying forest zones. Leaving Juda Ka Talab, the trail narrows and rises into a thicket of old oak trees, where sunlight barely touches the floor.
As you move higher, the tree line thins out, and suddenly you find yourself walking on a snow-covered ridge flanked by open meadows. This area offers the first clear views of Swargarohini, Kalanag (Black Peak), Bandarpoonch, and Ranglana.
One notable point is a flat snow meadow near Hargaon, which is sometimes used as an emergency campsite. Eventually, you reach the Kedarkantha Base Camp, located in a wide snow-covered meadow with a clear view of the Kedarkantha Summit.
Evening light bathes the area in gold, and the sunset here is unforgettable. Expect cold winds, deep snow (in winter), and millions of stars lighting up the sky.
- Distance: 6 km (3 km ascent + 3 km descent)
- Time: 6–7 hours
- Altitude Gain: 3,430 m → 3,810 m (summit) → 2,700 m
- Route: Base Camp → Western Ridge Trail → Kedarkantha Peak → Eastern Descent → Juda Ka Talab
You begin your summit attempt around 3:00–4:00 AM, equipped with headlamps and gaiters. The early climb follows a zigzag trail up a snow ridge, climbing slowly but steadily. The terrain alternates between forest patches and open snow fields.
As the sun begins to rise behind you, the summit comes into view—a pyramid-shaped snow mound marked by a Trishul, cairns, and a stone temple of Lord Shiva.
At 3,810 meters, Kedarkantha Summit offers a 360° panoramic view of peaks such as:
—- Swargarohini I, II, III
—- Bandarpoonc
—- Kalanag (Black Peak)
—- Rupin and Supin Valleys
—- Yamunotri and Gangotri ranges
After celebrating with photos and high-fives, you begin the descent. Instead of retracing the same route, some trekkers prefer glissading (sliding down snow patches) for a thrilling return. You reach Juda Ka Talab by early afternoon for your final night in the mountains.
- Distance: 4 km trek + 210 km drive
- Time: 2–3 hours trek + 8–10 hours drive
- Route: Juda Ka Talab → Forest Descent via Sor → Sankri → Netwar → Purola → Dehradun
The final day of your trek starts with a gradual descent through the same oak and pine forests that greeted you earlier. Morning light cuts through the misty forest, creating a magical descent toward Sankri.
After reaching Sankri and collecting your gear, a shared or private vehicle awaits to take you back to Dehradun. The route remains the same — Purola, Nainbagh, and Mussoorie — but now your heart is full of memories.
Chari Top Trek Package Cost Includes
Transportation
Dehradun to Sankri and return in shared private vehicle (Tempo Traveller/Bolero)
Pick-up and drop points: Dehradun Railway Station/ISBT
Accommodation
Day 1 (Sankri): Stay in homestay/guesthouse (twin/triple sharing)
Day 2 to 4 (Juda Ka Talab & Base Camp): Alpine tents (2/3 person sharing)
High-quality sleeping bags, foam mattresses, and snowproof tents provided
Meals (Veg & Nutritious)
All meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 breakfast
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner + Hot Soup
Tea/Coffee served twice daily
Simple, hygienic, and energy-rich food (dal, rice, roti, vegetables, khichdi, pasta, upma, poha)
Trekking Equipment
Waterproof alpine tents
-10°C sleeping bags
Thick foam sleeping mats
Gaiters and crampons (during snow season)
Trekking poles and headlamps (limited on request)
Experienced Trek Team
Certified Trek Leader (Wilderness First Aid trained)
Experienced local guides with terrain knowledge
Trained support staff and porter for common gear
Safety & First Aid
Oximeter, basic first-aid kit, and altitude sickness protocols
Oxygen cylinder available (emergency only)
Backup plan for emergency evacuation (extra cost if needed)
Permit & Forest Fees
Entry fee for Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
All applicable local forest permits, camping charges, and taxes
Chari Top Trek Package Cost Excludes
Travel from your home city to Dehradun and back
Meals during transit between Dehradun and Sankri (Day 1 & Day 5)
Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, gloves, headlamps, ponchos, etc.)
Backpack offloading/mule charges (₹300–₹500 per day)
Tips and gratuities for trek leaders, guides, and staff
Bottled water, snacks, energy bars, and personal medicines
Hot water buckets and mobile charging at Sankri (if available)
Any extra stay or hotel in Dehradun before or after the trek
Travel or trek insurance (not included in package)
Emergency evacuation, medical costs, or ambulance service
Any expenses due to natural calamities, roadblocks, or bad weather
Anything not mentioned under the “Inclusions” section
Chari Top Trek Package Cost
Sankri To Sankri
₹ 6,500/- PP
₹ 4,500/- PP
- 4 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Dehradun To Dehradun
₹ 8,500/- PP
₹ 6,500/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Dehradun
- 4 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Delhi To Delhi
₹ 11,500/- PP
₹ 9,500/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Delhi
- 4 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Chari Top Trek Fix Departures
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 Chari Top Trek
Step-by-Step Guide to Reach Chari Top 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 Chari Top 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: Delhi → Dehradun (overnight train/bus) → Sankri → Chari Top Trek
From Mumbai: Mumbai → Dehradun (flight/train via Delhi) → Sankri → Chari Top Trek
From Bangalore: Bangalore → Dehradun (flight via Delhi) → Sankri → Chari Top Trek
Chari Top 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
Chari Top 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
Chari Top Trek Essentials
The Chari Top Trek requires essential trekking gear and clothing for high-altitude conditions, including warm layers, waterproof jackets, sturdy trekking shoes, and thermal wear. Trekkers should carry a comfortable backpack, water bottle, personal toiletries, snacks, and basic first-aid items. Proper preparation ensures safety, comfort, and an enjoyable Himalayan trekking experience.
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)
Chari Top Trek Fitness
Fitness for Chari Top Trek – Are You Trek-Ready?
The Chari Top Trek is classified as a moderate to strenuous trek, suitable for adventure enthusiasts, but it demands a reasonable level of physical fitness due to high-altitude conditions, rocky trails, and cold temperatures (up to 4,000 m / 13,120 ft).
Basic Fitness Requirements
Age Group: 15–60 years (physically active individuals)
Ability to walk 8–10 km/day on moderate to steep inclines
Comfort with 4–6 hours of walking in cold weather
No major breathing or cardiac issues (doctor’s clearance if unsure)
Mental endurance for cold, altitude, and camping
Why Fitness Matters on Chari Top Trek
Altitude: The trek reaches 4,000 m, where oxygen levels are lower
Weather: Temperatures can drop to -5°C to -10°C at higher camps
Terrain: Rocky trails, boulders, and alpine meadows require stamina
Summit Day: Involves 600–800 m ascent and descent (~6–8 km)
Pre-Trek Fitness Preparation Plan (Start 3–4 Weeks Before)
Cardiovascular Endurance (4–5 days/week)
Brisk walking or jogging – 4–6 km
Stair climbing or hill walks – 3–4 floors, 3 sets
Cycling or swimming (optional)
Strength Training (3–4 days/week)
Squats – 3 sets of 15
Lunges – 3 sets of 10 per leg
Planks – Hold for 30–60 seconds
Core exercises (leg raises, crunches, mountain climbers)
Flexibility & Recovery
Daily stretching for legs, hips, and back
10–15 mins yoga or foam rolling
Rest properly between sessions
Quick Tips for Trek Fitness
Practice walking with a loaded backpack (5–7 kg)
Try a day hike or local hill trek before the main trek
Hydrate well before and during the trek
Avoid alcohol/smoking 2 weeks before the trek
Consult a doctor if you have asthma, blood pressure, or altitude-related issues
Who Should Avoid Chari Top Trek
People with severe heart or lung conditions
Those recovering from major surgery or injury
Individuals with uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension
Chari Top Trek FAQ's
What is the best time to do the Chari Top Trek?
The ideal time for the Chari Top Trek is April to June (pre-monsoon) and September to October (post-monsoon). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
What is the best time to do the Chari Top Trek?
The trek is classified as moderate to strenuous, making it suitable for trekkers with some prior experience or good physical fitness. Beginners can attempt it with proper preparation, guidance, and acclimatization.
What is the total duration of the Chari Top Trek?
The trek usually spans 6 days, including travel from Dehradun to Sankri and back, with trekking days covering Sankri, Seema, Chari Top, and return.
Which villages and campsites are covered on the Chari Top Trek?
The trek passes through Sankri, Seema Camp, and alpine meadows near Chari Top, offering camping spots surrounded by forests, rivers, and panoramic mountain views.
What is the highest altitude reached during the Chari Top Trek?
Chari Top itself is situated at approximately 4,000 meters (13,120 ft), providing 360° views of peaks like Kedarkantha, Chaukhamba, and Bandarpoonch.
Do I need prior trekking experience for Chari Top Trek?
While prior trekking experience is helpful, it is not mandatory. Beginners with good fitness and acclimatization planning can undertake this trek safely.
What kind of fitness is required for the Chari Top Trek?
Trekkers should be able to walk 8–10 km/day, handle 4–6 hours of trekking in cold weather, and navigate steep inclines and uneven terrain. Cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and stamina are important.
How do I reach the base village of the Chari Top Trek?
The base village is Sankri in Uttarakhand, reachable via private cab, shared taxi, or bus from Dehradun, which is well-connected by air, train, and road to major Indian cities.
What type of accommodation is provided during the trek?
Accommodation includes homestays/guesthouses at Sankri and alpine tents at campsites near Seema and Chari Top, equipped with sleeping bags and foam mattresses.
Are meals and water included in the Chari Top Trek package?
Yes, all meals from the first dinner to the last breakfast are included. Food is vegetarian, nutritious, and energy-rich, and hot water is provided throughout the trek.
Do I need to carry my own trekking gear for Chari Top Trek?
Basic trekking gear like tents, sleeping bags, mats, and trekking poles are provided. Trekkers need to carry personal essentials, clothing, water, and a daypack.
Is it possible to do the Chari Top Trek in winter?
Winter trekking is not recommended due to heavy snowfall, icy trails, and sub-zero temperatures. It is suitable only for high-altitude trekking experts with specialized equipment.
Which mountains and peaks can be seen from Chari Top?
From Chari Top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Kedarkantha, Chaukhamba, Bandarpoonch, and other Garhwal Himalayan peaks, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Can I do the Chari Top Trek with my family or children?
The trek is not ideal for young children or elderly family members due to high altitude, steep ascents, and rugged terrain. It is best suited for physically fit adults and experienced trekkers.
What safety measures are followed during the Chari Top Trek?
Safety protocols include acclimatization schedules, first-aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and experienced guides trained in wilderness first aid. Emergency evacuation plans and altitude sickness monitoring are strictly maintained.
Which is best travel company for Chari Top trek?
Solo Hike is Sankri, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand based travel company, providing Chari Top 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.
CHARI TOP TREK PHOTOS
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