Kalanag or Black Peak (6,387 m) is a peak in the Garhwal Himalaya in Uttarakhand, India. It is the highest peak in the Bandarpunch massif, others being Bandarpunch I (6,316 m) and White Peak or Bandarpunch II (6,102 m). The name literally means “Black Cobra” in Hindi.The peak was first summited in 1955 by schoolmaster Jack Gibson and students of The Doon School, Dehradun.
Black Peak
Trek Details
Duration
16 Days / 15 Nights
Max Altitude
6387 m
Trek Length
78 KM
Difficulty
HardBest Season
May to June and Sep to Oct
Start Point
Sankri
End Point
Sankri
Overview
Your Adventure at a Glance
About the Trek
Mythology, Best Time & More More
Significance
Mythology and Cultural
Black peaks, like other mountains, are significant in mythology and culture. They represent a connection between the divine and the earthly realm, symbolizing spiritual journeys, enlightenment, and overcoming obstacles. Mountains are often seen as protectors against evil and as places of refuge. They also reflect cultural identity, appearing in creation myths and narratives of indigenous peoples.
Month
Best Time
The best time to climb Black Peak (Kalanag) is during late spring to early summer (May to June) and post-monsoon season (September to October) for favorable weather conditions and clear skies.
Day-by-Day Plan
Trek Itinerary
Day 1
Make Your Way to Sankri (1,920M)
Arrival in Sankri: Travel from Dehradun or another starting point to Sankri, a quaint village that serves as the base camp for several treks in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The journey introduces you to the scenic beauty of the region.
Preparation: Use this day to acclimatize and prepare for the trek ahead. Explore Sankri, interact with locals, and enjoy the serene environment.
Day 2
Sankri (1,920M) to Seema (2,260M) through Taluka (2,100M)
Trek to Taluka: Begin your trek from Sankri to Taluka, enjoying the lush landscapes and the flowing Supin River.
Continue to Seema: From Taluka, trek towards Seema, a small hamlet offering picturesque views and camping sites.
Camp in Seema: Set up camp in Seema for the night. This area serves as a crucial stopover for trekkers heading deeper into the mountains.
Day 3
Seema (2,260M) to Ruinsara Tal (3,500M)
Trek to Ruinsara Tal: Depart from Seema, heading towards Ruinsara Tal. The trek takes you through beautiful forests and meadows, offering stunning views of the Swargarohini Range.
Explore Ruinsara Tal: Spend the afternoon exploring the serene Ruinsara Tal, a high-altitude lake known for its tranquil beauty.
Camp by the Lake: Set up camp near Ruinsara Tal for the night, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the starlit sky.
Day 4
Ruinsara Tal (3,500M) to Kyarkoti Base Camp (3,820M)
Ascend to Kyarkoti: Trek from Ruinsara Tal to Kyarkoti Base Camp, navigating through alpine meadows and witnessing the majestic Himalayan peaks.
Setup Base Camp: Arrive at Kyarkoti Base Camp, your home for the next several days. Prepare your campsite and get ready for the expedition phase.
Day 5
Rest and Acclimatization at Basecamp (3,820M)
Acclimatization: Spend the day resting and acclimatizing at the base camp. Engage in short walks around the camp to adjust to the altitude.
Preparation for Expedition: Check your equipment and discuss the expedition plan with your team. This is a crucial day for planning and ensuring everyone's readiness for the challenge ahead.
Day 6
Day 6 – Day 14: Expedition";
Expedition Phase: This period is dedicated to the main expedition. Depending on your objective, this could involve climbing a peak, exploring the surrounding mountains, or undertaking specific treks in the region. Each day will bring new challenges and experiences as you navigate through the Himalayas.
Teamwork and Adaptability: Work closely with your team, adapting to changing conditions and supporting each other through the expedition.
Day 7
Depart from Sankri (1,920M)
Return to Sankri: After completing the expedition, trek back to Sankri. This is a time to reflect on your achievements and the experiences shared with your team.
Celebration: Spend the evening in Sankri celebrating the successful completion of your expedition. It's an opportunity to share stories, exchange photographs, and relax.
Day 8
Reserve Day
Flexibility: This reserve day is planned to accommodate any delays or extended time needed during the expedition phase. It ensures that the trek and expedition can be completed safely without rushing.
Return Journey: If not used as a reserve day, begin your journey back to Dehradun or onward to your next destination, carrying with you memories of a challenging yet rewarding Himalayan adventure.
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 Black Peak trek difficult ?
yes, climbing Black Peak (Kalanag) is considered challenging due to its steep terrain, high altitude, and unpredictable weather.
How long is Black Peak Trek ?
Trekking to the base camp of Black Peak (Kalanag) typically takes 78 KM .
Why is Black Peak famous ?
Black Peak (Kalanag) is renowned for its challenging climb, breathtaking vistas, and high-altitude adventure in the Himalayas.
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 room 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.