Neelkanth Base

Trek Details

Duration

4 Days / 3 Nights

Max Altitude

3900 m

Trek Length

16 KM

Difficulty

Easy

Best Season

May to June and Sep to Oct

Start Point

Badrinath

End Point

Badrinath

  • Overview
  • Itinerary
  • Inclusion
  • How To Reach
  • Map
  • Policy
  • Packing List
  • FAQs

Best Months for this Trek

Open Closed

Overview

Your Adventure at a Glance

Neelkantha, also known as Neelakant or Nilkanth, is a prominent peak in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas, located in Uttarakhand, India. Though not the tallest peak in the area, it stands out dramatically over the Alaknanda River valley, rising 3,900 meters above the sacred site of Badrinath, which is just 9 kilometers (6 miles) to the east.Renowned mountaineer Frank Smythe praised Neelkantha, calling it the second most beautiful peak in the Himalayas after Siniolchu.

On the northwest side of Neelkantha lies the Satopanth Glacier, beneath a 2,500-meter (8,200-foot) vertical face of the mountain. To the southwest is the Panpatia Glacier, which feeds the Khirao Ganga stream running along the southern side of Neelkantha. Further west, you’ll find the famous Gangotri Glacier and its associated peaks. Across the Alaknanda valley are the Kamet and Nanda Devi mountain groups.

About the Trek

Mythology, Best Time & More More

Significance

Mythology and Cultural

The Neelkanth trek holds great mythology and cultural significance. According to Hindu mythology, Neelkanth is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva consumed the poison that emerged during the churning of the cosmic ocean. It is said that his throat turned blue, giving the mountain its name, "Neelkanth," which means "Blue Throat" in Sanskrit. The mountain is considered sacred by devotees of Lord Shiva and is a pilgrimage site for many. The trek allows you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance of the region.

Month

Best Time

The best time to trek to Neelkanth is during the months of May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.

Day-by-Day Plan

Trek Itinerary

Day 1

Rishikesh to Badrinath via Joshimath

Journey Begins: Depart from Rishikesh early in the morning, heading towards Badrinath, one of the Char Dhams in Uttarakhand. The drive takes you through scenic routes, offering views of the Ganges and the Himalayas.

Stop at Joshimath: En route, stop at Joshimath, a crucial pilgrimage site in its own right and a gateway to several Himalayan treks. Explore the town and perhaps visit the Adi Shankaracharya Math.

Arrive at Badrinath: Continue to Badrinath and check into your accommodation. Spend the evening visiting the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the place.

Day 2

Badrinath to Charan Paduka to Neelkanth Base

Trek to Charan Paduka: Start early from Badrinath and trek towards Charan Paduka, a sacred site believed to hold the footprints of Lord Vishnu. The trek offers stunning views of the valley and the Badrinath Temple.

Continue to Neelkanth Base: From Charan Paduka, proceed to the base of the Neelkanth peak, a prominent Himalayan mountain. The trek becomes more challenging but rewards with breathtaking views of Neelkanth, known as the 'Garhwal Queen.' Camp at Neelkanth Base: Set up camp at the base of Neelkanth. Enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings and the majestic views of the peak.

Day 3

Neelkanth Base to Mana and Back to Badrinath

Visit Mana Village: Descend from Neelkanth Base towards Mana, the last village before the Mana Pass and close to the Tibet border. Explore the village, visiting sites like Vyas Gufa, where it's believed Ved Vyas composed the Mahabharata.

Return to Badrinath: After exploring Mana, return to Badrinath. Spend another evening in this sacred town, perhaps revisiting the temple for the evening aarti or exploring the hot springs.

Day 4

Badrinath to Rishikesh

Return Journey: Depart from Badrinath and head back to Rishikesh. The drive back gives you time to reflect on the spiritual and natural beauty experienced during your journey.

Arrive in Rishikesh: Once in Rishikesh, your journey comes to an end. Take some time to rest and reflect on the pilgrimage to Badrinath, the trek to Neelkanth Base, and the visit to the ancient village of Mana. This journey offers not only a glimpse into the Himalayan wilderness but also a deep dive into the spiritual heritage of Uttarakhand.

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

By Air

Dehradun’s airport is the Jolly Grant Airport, which is located 20 km away from the city centre. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach the city, which should take you 40 to 45 minutes depending upon traffic. link opening

By Train

Dehradun is connected by regular train services to various cities. The Dehradun Railway Station is located 1-2 kilometres away from the city centre and should take you only ten minutes, depending on traffic link opening

By Road

Dehradun is well connected to cities like Delhi, Shimla, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Agra, and Mussoorie by various buses. Most operate from the ISBT near Clement Town, with departures every 15–60 minutes. Additional services run from the Mussoorie Bus Station near the railway station and the Delhi Bus Stand on Gandhi Road.

Location

Trek Route Map

Booking Policy

Cancellation Policy

PolicyUpto 30 days29–21 days21–15 days14–0 days
Batch Shifting✓✕✕✕
Refund100%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 Neelkanth Base Camp trek difficult ?

The Neelkanth Base camp trek is easy .

How many days is Neelkanth Base Camp Trek ?

It is a 4 Days and 3 Nights Trek starting from Badrinath to Badrinath .

Why is Neelkanth Base Camp famous ?

The Neelkanth trek is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. It is also renowned for its religious significance, as the mountain is associated with Lord Shiva in Hindu mythology. Many trekkers and nature enthusiasts are drawn to Neelkanth for its majestic landscapes and spiritual aura.

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.

₹ 7,999 ₹ 5,800
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