The Milam Glacier in Uttarakhand, India, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including towering ice cliffs and lush alpine landscapes. It’s a popular trekking destination, attracting adventurers from around the world. The trek starts from the village of Munsiyari and offers breathtaking views of the glacier and surrounding peaks.
Milam Glacier
Trek Details
Duration
11 Days / 10 Nights
Max Altitude
4200 m
Trek Length
60 KM
Difficulty
ModerateBest Season
May to October
Start Point
Munsiyari
End Point
Munsiyari
Nearest Railway
Tanakpur
Nearest Airport
Pantnagar
Overview
Your Adventure at a Glance
About the Trek
Mythology, Best Time & More More
Significance
Mythology and Cultural
The mythology and cultural significance of the Milam Glacier are intertwined. In Hindu mythology, the glacier is believed to be the abode of Nanda Devi, a goddess highly revered by the locals. The glacier holds immense spiritual importance and is considered a sacred site for pilgrimages and religious ceremonies. 0
Month
Best Time
The best time to trek to Milam Glacier is during the summer months, from May to October. During this period, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and milder temperatures, making trekking more comfortable.
Day-by-Day Plan
Trek Itinerary
Day 1
Dehradun to Munsiyari
Journey to Munsiyari: Begin your expedition with a long drive from Dehradun to Munsiyari, passing through picturesque landscapes and quaint hill towns. Munsiyari, nestled in the Pithoragarh district, serves as a base for several treks in the Kumaon Himalayas.
Preparation and Rest: Use the remainder of the day to rest and prepare for the trek ahead. Explore Munsiyari, known for its panoramic views of the Panchachuli Peaks.
Day 2
Munsiyari to Lilam"
Trek Begins: Start your trek from Munsiyari to Lilam. The initial stretch is a moderate descent followed by a gradual ascent through forests and along the Gori Ganga river.
Camp at Lilam: Set up camp in Lilam, a small settlement that marks the beginning of your journey into the high-altitude wilderness.
Day 3
Lilam to Bugdiar
Ascend to Bugdiyar: Continue trekking from Lilam to Bugdiyar, walking through dense forests and crossing several streams. The trail becomes steeper, offering views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
Camp at Bugdiyar: Bugdiyar is a large meadow with a small stream, providing a tranquil setting for the night.
Day 4
Bugdiar to Martoli
Trek to Martoli: Depart from Bugdiyar towards Martoli, trekking through remote landscapes and past abandoned settlements. Martoli is known for its ancient ruins and breathtaking views.
Explore Martoli: Spend the evening exploring the ruins of Martoli, once a thriving village on the ancient trade route to Tibet.
Day 5
Martoli to Milam
Journey to Milam:Trek from Martoli to Milam, the trail offers glimpses of the Himalayan peaks and glaciers. Milam is a high-altitude village close to the Indo-China border, known for its historical significance.
Camp at Milam: Set up camp in Milam, preparing for the next day's trek to the Milam Glacier.
Day 6
Milam to Milam Glacier and return to Milam
Explore Milam Glacier: Trek from Milam to the Milam Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the Kumaon region. Spend the day exploring the glacier and its surroundings, experiencing the majesty of the Himalayas.
Return to Milam:Trek back to Milam for another night, filled with reflections on the day's extraordinary sights.
Day 7
Milam to Railkot
Descend to Railkot: Begin your descent from Milam to Railkot, enjoying different views of the landscape as you head back. Railkot offers scenic vistas and a peaceful environment for camping.
Day 8
Railkot to Bugdiar
Trek Back to Bugdiyar: Continue your descent from Railkot to Bugdiyar, retracing your steps through the changing landscapes and reminiscing about the journey thus far.
Day 9
Bugdiar to Lilam
Return to Lilam: Descend further from Bugdiyar to Lilam, nearing the end of your trek in the Kumaon Himalayas. Enjoy the last moments in the wilderness before returning to civilization.
Day 10
Lilam to Munsiyari
Final Trek to Munsiyari: Complete your trek by returning from Lilam to Munsiyari. This last stretch brings you back to the starting point, marking the end of your journey through the high-altitude wilderness.
Day 11
Munsiyari to Kathgodam or Dehradun
Journey Back:Depart from Munsiyari, heading back to Kathgodam or Dehradun. Reflect on the trek's experiences, from the serene landscapes of Milam and Martoli to the majestic Milam Glacier and the ancient ruins.
Reflections: This trek offers a profound experience of the Himalayas, from the lush valleys near Munsiyari to the stark beauty of the high-altitude Milam Glacier. The return journey to Kathgodam or Dehradun provides a transition back to everyday life, carrying with you the memories of the wilderness, the ancient villages, and the breathtaking vistas of the Kumaon region.
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 Milam Glacier trek difficult ?
The trek to Milam Glacier is considered Moderate due to its remote location, rugged terrain, high altitude, and challenging weather conditions.
How many days in Milam Glacier Trek ?
It is a 11 Days and 10 Nights Trek starting from Munsiyari to Munsiyari .
How long is Kedartal Trek ?
The trek to Milam Glacier is typically around 60 kilometers in length, depending on the specific route taken and any deviations from the main trail.
Why is Milam Glacier famous ?
The Milam Glacier trek is famous for its stunning Himalayan scenery, remote wilderness, glacial landscape, cultural immersion, and adventurous challenges.
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.