1. Accommodation:

✔ Stay in guesthouses/homestays at Joshimath.
✔ Tented accommodation during the trek (twin/triple sharing basis).

2. Meals:

✔ Nutritious vegetarian meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Snacks) from Day 1 dinner to Day 7 breakfast.
✔ High-altitude energy snacks and hot drinks.

3. Transportation:

✔ Dehradun to Sankri & return in a shared vehicle.
✔ Internal transfers (Taluka to Sankri) as per itinerary.

4. Permits & Fees:

✔ All forest entry fees, camping charges, and trek permits.
✔ Trek insurance (if included in the package).

5. Trekking Staff & Support:

✔ Experienced trek leader and guide (certified mountaineering experts).
✔ Support staff (porters/mules) to carry group camping equipment.
✔ Cook & helpers for fresh meals.
✔ Oxygen cylinder, first aid kit, and emergency support.

6. Trek Equipment:

✔ High-quality tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
✔ Microspikes and gaiters for snow patches.

❌ Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, tips, etc.).
❌ Any transportation costs beyond itinerary (e.g., early departure, personal travel).
❌ Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, trekking poles, backpack, etc.).
❌ Insurance for trekkers (can be arranged on request).
❌ Emergency evacuation, medical expenses, or rescue charges.
❌ Any additional meals/snacks beyond itinerary.
❌ Anything not mentioned in “Inclusions”.

The Pangarchulla Trek starts from Joshimath, a small town in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Here’s how you can reach Joshimath from major cities:

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar or Rishikesh

• From Haridwar/Rishikesh, take a bus or hire a taxi to Joshimath.

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

• From the airport, travel to Rishikesh by cab or bus, then continue onward to Joshimath by road.

By Road

• From Rishikesh/Haridwar: Regular buses, shared jeeps, and taxis are available to Joshimath.

• The route passes through scenic hill towns like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Chamoli.

1. Booking & Payment

✔ Advance Payment: 30% of the total package cost at the time of booking.
✔ Full Payment: Must be completed before departure.

Cancellation Policy:

30+ days before trek: Full refund (minus processing fee)

15-30 days before trek: 50% refund

Less than 15 days: No refund

2. Package Inclusions & Exclusions

✔ The package covers accommodation, meals, transport, permits, and guide services as per itinerary.
✔ Personal expenses, insurance, and emergency evacuation are not included.

3. Fitness & Medical Condition

✔ Trekkers must be physically fit and disclose any medical conditions before booking.
✔ The company is not responsible for health issues arising due to altitude sickness or pre-existing conditions.

4. Trekking Rules & Safety

✔ Follow the trek leader’s instructions at all times.
✔ Consumption of alcohol, drugs, or smoking is strictly prohibited during the trek.
✔ Littering and harming wildlife is not allowed.

5. Cancellation by Organizers

✔ If the trek is canceled due to natural calamities, landslides, or government restrictions, a partial refund or alternative trek will be offered.

Trek Essentials for Pangarchulla Trek

Clothing & Layering

• Thermal innerwear (top & bottom)

• Full-sleeve trekking shirts (2–3)

• Fleece or woolen jacket

• Down jacket (suitable for sub-zero temperatures)

• Waterproof windcheater or poncho

• Quick-dry trekking pants (2 pairs)

• Warm beanie/woolen cap

• Neck gaiter or balaclava

• Waterproof gloves + woolen inner gloves

• Woolen socks (2–3 pairs) + regular sports socks

Footwear

• High-ankle waterproof trekking shoes (good grip)

• Lightweight camp slippers/sandals (for evenings)

Backpack & Accessories

• 40–50L trekking backpack (with rain cover)

• Daypack (10–15L) for summit day

• Waterproof dry bags or zip-locks for organizing gear

• Headlamp with extra batteries

Personal Essentials

• Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration pack

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, moisturizer

• Sunglasses (UV-protected, glacier-rated preferred)

• Toilet paper, biodegradable soap, wet wipes

• Personal medication kit + Diamox (consult doctor)

Energy & Snacks

• Energy bars, dry fruits, glucose powder

• ORS packets, electrolyte tablets

Other Must-Haves

• Trekking pole (highly recommended)

• Power bank

• Lightweight towel

• ID proof (original + photocopy)

• Small personal first-aid kit

1. What is the best time to do the Pangarchulla Trek?

The best time to undertake the Pangarchulla Trek is during spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November). During these seasons, the weather is clear, with mild temperatures and stunning views of snow-capped peaks. Avoid the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails.

2. What is the difficulty level of the Pangarchulla Trek?

The Pangarchulla Trek is considered moderate to difficult. It is suitable for fit beginners with some prior trekking experience or seasoned trekkers. The summit day can be challenging, requiring physical stamina and high-altitude acclimatization.

3. What are the major highlights of the Pangarchulla Trek?

Key highlights include:

• Panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Kamet, and Chaukhamba

• The Kuari Pass, an ancient route trekked by Lord Curzon

• Scenic alpine meadows (bugyals) and forests of rhododendrons and oak

• The exhilarating summit of Pangarchulla Peak at 15,069 ft

4. How long is the Pangarchulla Trek?

The trek takes 7 days in total, including travel, acclimatization, and the ascent to Pangarchulla Peak. The trek covers a variety of terrains, including forests, meadows, and snow-covered ridges.

5. How do I reach the starting point of the Pangarchulla Trek?

To reach the Pangarchulla Trek, you need to first reach Joshimath. From there, you will drive to Dhak Village, the starting point of the trek. You can reach Joshimath by train (via Haridwar or Rishikesh) or flight (via Dehradun), followed by a road journey to Joshimath.

6. Is the Pangarchulla Trek safe for beginners?

Yes, the Pangarchulla Trek is safe for beginners who have a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience at lower altitudes. It’s essential to acclimatize properly and take regular rest breaks. Trekking with a professional guide and group can enhance safety.

7. What should I pack for the Pangarchulla Trek?

Essential items include:

• Layered clothing for warmth

• Trekking shoes with good grip

• Daypack for summit day

• Headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses

• Water bottles, trekking poles

• Personal medication and a first-aid kit

For a complete packing list, refer to our Pangarchulla Trek packing guide.

8. Do I need prior trekking experience to do the Pangarchulla Trek?

While the Pangarchulla Trek is not a technical climb, it’s recommended that you have some trekking experience and be physically fit for the high-altitude conditions. If you’re new to trekking, consider practicing on easier treks first.

9. Is there mobile network coverage during the trek?

Mobile network coverage is limited during the trek, especially in the higher regions like Khullara and Pangarchulla Summit. You will have network coverage in Joshimath and at lower altitudes, but it’s a good idea to inform family or friends about your trek in advance.

10. What type of accommodation is available on the Pangarchulla Trek?

Accommodation on the Pangarchulla Trek is primarily in tents at campsites like Gulling and Khullara. Basic amenities include sleeping bags and mats. In Joshimath, you’ll stay in comfortable guesthouses or hotels.

Pangarchulla Trek is a very beautiful and popular trek in Uttarakhand, but it requires a moderate level of fitness. Let’s understand what fitness is required for this trek and how you can prepare:

Fitness Required:

1. Cardiovascular Fitness:

Why it is important: You may have to walk continuously for 6-8 hours during the trek.

What to do:

Walking or jogging 4-5 km daily

Cycling or swimming (20-30 minutes)

Stair climbing

2. Leg strength and endurance:

3. Backpack training:

You will have to carry a bag weighing 7-10 kg on the trek.

Do weighted walks 2-3 times a week.

4. Hiking Practices (if possible):

Additional Tips:

Break-in shoes: Don’t wear new shoes on the trek, try them on beforehand and get them fitted.

Breathing exercises: Pranayama and deep breathing will improve oxygen usage.

Hydration habit: Make it a habit to drink 3-4 liters of water daily.

Meditation: Practice breathing process, inhale and exhale.