Maiktoli Glacier is situated to the west of the Pindari glacier in the Kumaon Himalayas. This glacier is 5 km long and is situated on the southern slope of the Sunderdhunga Khal. One can also savour enchanting views of the Mrigthuni glacier situated on the western side of Maiktoli glacier.
Maiktoli
Trek Details
Duration
7 Days / 6 Nights
Max Altitude
3900 m
Difficulty
HardBest Season
April to June and Sep to Oct
Start Point
Khati
End Point
Jatoli
Overview
Your Adventure at a Glance
About the Trek
Mythology, Best Time & More More
Significance
Mythology and Cultural
While specific mythology directly linked to Maiktoli may not be widely known, the mountain holds cultural significance in the broader context of the Himalayan region. It is likely revered by indigenous communities and regarded with respect as part of their cultural heritage.
Month
Best Time
The best time to climb Maiktoli is during the pre-monsoon season, which typically spans from April to June, and the post-monsoon season from September to October.
Day-by-Day Plan
Trek Itinerary
Day 1
Bageshwar to Kharkiya, Trek from Kharkiya to Kheti
Bageshwar:Start your journey from Bageshwar, a picturesque town located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.
Kharkiya:Drive or take a local transport to Kharkiya, a small village from where the trek to Kheti begins. The drive covers approximately 60 kilometers and takes about 2-3 hours.
Trek to Kheti:From Kharkiya, embark on a trek to Kheti, a scenic village situated at an altitude of around 2,500 meters. The trek takes about 4-5 hours, passing through lush forests and terraced fields.
Day 2
Khati to Jatoli
Khati:After spending the night in Kheti, continue your trek to Khati, a larger village at an elevation of about 2,300 meters.
Trek to Jatoli:From Khati, trek to Jatoli, a beautiful and remote location situated at around 2,800 meters. The trek from Khati to Jatoli covers approximately 10-12 kilometers and takes around 5-6 hours. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Day 3
Jatoli to Kathaliya
Jatoli:Begin your trek from Jatoli to Kathaliya, a higher altitude campsite located at around 3,000 meters.
Trek to Kathaliya:The trek from Jatoli to Kathaliya covers a distance of about 10 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours. Kathaliya is a scenic meadow offering magnificent views of the surrounding peaks and is a good base for further exploration.
Day 4
Kathaliya to Maiktoli Base Camp and Return
Kathaliya:Start early in the morning for a trek to the Maiktoli Base Camp, located at around 3,800 meters.
Maiktoli Base Camp:The trek to Maiktoli Base Camp takes approximately 5-6 hours, covering a distance of about 12 kilometers. Enjoy the stunning views of Maiktoli Peak and the surrounding landscape before returning to Kathaliya in the evening.
Day 5
Kathaliya to Baluni Top and Back
Kathaliya:Set off for Baluni Top, a high-altitude peak offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges.
Baluni Top:The trek to Baluni Top and back covers approximately 15 kilometers and takes about 6-7 hours. The summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Return to Kathaliya by evening.
Day 6
Stay Overnight at Kathaliya
Kathaliya:Spend an extra day at Kathaliya to rest and acclimatize. This is an opportunity to explore the local area, enjoy the serene surroundings, and relax after the previous days’ treks.
Day 7
Jatoli to Bageshwar
Kathaliya to JatoliBegin your return journey from Kathaliya to Jatoli. The trek covers around 10 kilometers and takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Jatoli to Bageshwar:From Jatoli, travel back to Bageshwar. The drive from Jatoli to Bageshwar covers around 60 kilometers and takes about 2-3 hours. Upon arrival in Bageshwar, you can rest or explore the town if time permits.
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 Maiktoli trek difficult ?
Yes this trek is considered difficult it requires good physical fitness.
How many days is Maiktoli Trek ?
It is a 7 Days and 6 Nights Trek starting from Khati to Jatoli.
Why is Maiktoli famous ?
Maiktoli is famous for its challenging ascent and stunning Himalayan scenery. It's renowned among mountaineers for its technical difficulties, steep slopes, and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and alpine landscapes.
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.
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.