Kyarkoti Lake is a high-altitude alpine lake in Uttarakhand, India, located at around 3,820 meters above sea level. The trek to the lake starts from Harsil and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It’s moderately difficult and best visited from May to June and September to October. Proper preparation and acclimatization are essential due to the high altitude.
Kyarkoti Lake
Trek Details
Duration
6 Days / 5 Nights
Max Altitude
3820 m
Trek Length
40 KM
Difficulty
ModerateBest Season
May to June and Sep to Oct
Start Point
Harsil
End Point
Harsil
Nearest Railway
Dehradun
Nearest Airport
Jollygrant
Overview
Your Adventure at a Glance
About the Trek
Mythology, Best Time & More More
Significance
Mythology and Cultural
Kyarkoti Lake, located near Gangotri, where the Ganges River originates, is culturally significant in Hinduism. While the lake itself doesn't have direct mythological stories, its surroundings hold spiritual importance. Pilgrims visit Gangotri for spiritual cleansing, and the serene Himalayan setting, including Kyarkoti Lake, adds to the area's sacredness.
Month
Best Time
The best time to visit Kyarkoti Lake is during the summer months, from May to June, and then again from September to October.
Day-by-Day Plan
Trek Itinerary
Day 1
Dehradun to Harsil
Departure from Dehradun: Start your adventure early from Dehradun, embarking on a scenic drive to Harsil, known for its apple orchards and natural beauty.
Arrival at Harsil: Spend the evening exploring Harsil, nestled beside the Bhagirathi River, surrounded by dense deodar forests and majestic peaks. Prepare for the trek ahead.
Day 2
Harsil to Laldevta to Gangnani Camp
DAY 2: Harsil to Laldevta to Gangnani Camp: Start your trek from Harsil, heading towards Laldevta. After a brief stop, continue your journey to Gangnani Camp. Experience the enchanting views and immerse yourself in the natural splendor.
Continue to Laldevta Camp: From Bagori, proceed to Laldevta Camp. The trail offers panoramic views of the Himalayan landscapes.
Camp at Laldevta: Set up camp at Laldevta, enjoying the tranquility and the first night under the stars.
Day 3
Gangnani to Kyarakoti
DAY 3: Gangnani to Kyarakoti: From Gangnani, embark on a trek to Kyarakoti. The trail is filled with mesmerizing landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
Arrive at Upper Kyarkoti: Set up camp in the serene surroundings of Upper Kyarkoti, preparing for further exploration the next day.
Day 4
Explore Kyarakoti and Upper Kyarakoti
Explore Upper Kyarkoti Meadow and Lake: Spend the day exploring Kyarakoti and the upper regions. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the serene environment.
Day 5
Kyarakoti to Harsil
Trek to Gangnani: Begin your return journey from Kyarakoti back to Harsil. Relish the final moments of the trek and the beautiful scenery along the way.
Day 6
Return to Rishikesh
Departure from Harsil: After breakfast in Harsil, start your journey back to Rishikesh. This drive through the mountains offers a chance to reminisce about the trek and the serene beauty of the Himalayas.
Arrival in Rishikesh: By evening, arrive back in Rishikesh, concluding your adventure. Rishikesh’s spiritual vibe offers a fitting end to a journey that has taken you through some of the most serene and untouched parts of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Reflections: Back in Rishikesh, take time to absorb the experiences of the trek, from the tranquil beauty of Harsil and the cultural richness of Bagori, to the breathtaking meadows of Upper Kyarkoti, and the soothing springs of Gangnani. This journey offers a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and a deep connection with the wilderness.
What's Covered
Inclusions & Exclusions
INCLUSION
- Accommodation: Stay in tents/guesthouses on twin/triple sharing; base in guesthouse.
- Meals: Simple, nutritious vegetarian meals provided.
- Day-wise Meals: Meal plan varies by day.
- Day 1: Dinner + breakfast next morning.
- Trek Days: Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner included.
- Final Day: Dinner + breakfast before departure.
- Non-veg meals are not served.
- Trek Equipment: Sleeping bags, tents, kitchen setup, mattresses, crampons (if needed).
- Transportation: Included if opted during booking.
- First Aid: Basic medical kits available.
- Permits: Forest entry fees and permits included.
- Guides: Led by trained and experienced trek leaders.
EXCLUSION
- All kinds of personal expenditures are excluded.
- Anything that we have not mentioned above.
- The trek cost is not inclusive of meals bought during the journey on 1st day and last day.
- Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
Getting There
How To Reach
Location
Trek Route Map
Booking Policy
Cancellation Policy
| Policy | Upto 30 days | 29–21 days | 21–15 days | 14–0 days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Batch Shifting | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Refund | 100% | 50% | 0% | 0% |
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. No-shows and last-minute cancellations are non-refundable. In case of bad weather or force majeure, the company reserves the right to modify or cancel the itinerary.
Preparation
What To Pack
Clothing & Footwear
- High-ankle waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
- Thermal base layer — top & bottom (2 sets)
- Down jacket (600+ fill power)
- Windproof & waterproof shell jacket
- Trekking pants (quick-dry, 2–3 pairs)
- Woolen gloves + waterproof outer gloves
- Warm balaclava & beanie hat
- Woolen socks (4+ pairs)
- Gaiters for snow and scree
Gear & Essentials
- 35–45L daypack with rain cover
- Trekking poles (collapsible, 2 poles)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ & lip balm with SPF
- UV-protection polarised sunglasses
- Personal first aid & altitude medication (Diamox)
- Water bottles (2L) or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets
- Valid government photo ID (mandatory for permits)
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kyarkoti Lake trek difficult ?
The trek to Kyarkoti Lake is moderately difficult due to steep ascents, challenging terrain, and high altitude.
How many days in Kyarkoti Lake Trek ?
It is a 6 Days and 5 Nights Trek starting from Harsil to Gangnani.
How long is Kyarkoti Lake Trek ?
The length of the trek to Kyarkoti Lake typically ranges from 40 kilometers one way, starting from Gangotri. However, the exact distance can vary depending on the specific route taken and any deviations along the trail.
Why is Kyarkoti Lake famous ?
Kyarkoti Lake is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and its location near Gangotri, the origin of the sacred Ganges River.
What if we want to leave extra luggage at the base village?
You can keep extra luggage in the base village for any particular trek. There are no cloak roo charges applicable. Its free of cost.
Is there mobile signals available on treks?
If you are going on a trek don’t expect mobile signals. There are few spots on the trails of few treks where you might find a single tower or something but it always depends if that is enough to make a call or not.
How do you manage toilets?
We use portable toilet tents for sanitation needs, as permanent structures may not available. These are dry toilets, so please bring wet wipes or tissue paper for personal hygiene.
Do I need to carry trek equipment?
For this trek you just need a day bag to carry during the trek, extra luggage can be left behind at the camp site. Proper bedded swiss tents are available on this trek.
Can we consume Alcohol during the trek?
It’s a strict no. If you fall sick during the trek due to alcohol consumption H2H has the right to cancel your trek and send you back to base village. No expenses shall be refunded in that case and you will have to pay additional for stay at base village.
How do I prepare for the trek?
Start running/walking at least 3-4 Kms everyday.
What kind of shoes will I need? Does a sport shoe work?
If it’s a snow trek a good trekking shoe is mandatory. If you buy a new shoe do walk for few days so that it fits you well and doesn’t leave you with blisters while you trek. If it is a summer trek or post monsoon trek a shoe with good grip and ankle support will do.