The Kalindi Khal trek is a challenging high-altitude trek in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. It spans about 13-14 days, starting from Gangotri and ending in Badrinath, crossing the Kalindi Khal Pass at 5,945 meters. The trek is known for its stunning views of peaks like Shivling and Bhagirathi, as well as the Gangotri Glacier. It’s extremely difficult, requiring experience in high-altitude trekking and mountaineering skills. Permits are needed, and hiring local guides is advisable. Best times are May-June and September-October.
Kalindi Khal
Trek Details
Duration
13 Days / 12 Nights
Max Altitude
5945 m
Trek Length
99 KM
Difficulty
HardBest Season
May to June and Sep to Oct
Start Point
Gangotri
End Point
Badrinath
Nearest Railway
Dehradun
Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant
Overview
Your Adventure at a Glance
About the Trek
Mythology, Best Time & More More
Significance
Mythology and Cultural
The Kalindi Khal trek is steeped in Hindu mythology and culture, connecting sacred sites like Gangotri and Badrinath, and passing by the revered Gaumukh glacier. Trekkers encounter temples, shrines, and cultural practices along the route, enriching the journey with spiritual significance.
Month
Best Time
The best time to undertake the Kalindi Khal trek is during the summer months of May to June and the post-monsoon season of September to October, when the weather is relatively stable and the snow has melted to some extent, making the trail more accessible.
Day-by-Day Plan
Trek Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Gangotri
Arrival in Gangotri: Start your trekking adventure by reaching Gangotri, a town steeped in spiritual significance and the initial point of your expedition. Spend your first day here exploring the temple and the surrounding area, allowing yourself to adjust to the altitude.
Day 2
Gangotri to Bhojbasa
Trek to Bhojbasa: Embark on your trek from Gangotri towards Bhojbasa. This leg of the journey exposes you to breathtaking landscapes, immersing you in the serene beauty of the Himalayas. Camp at Bhojbasa: Settle in for the night at Bhojbasa, preparing yourself for the upcoming trekking challenges.
Day 3
Bhojbasa to Tapovan via Gomukh
Trek to Gomukh: Continue your journey from Bhojbasa, navigating through rugged terrain to reach Gomukh, the point where the Gangotri Glacier begins and the sacred source of the Ganges. Arrive at Tapovan: Progress from Gomukh to Tapovan, renowned for its lush meadows and panoramic vistas. Spend the night camping here, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Day 4
Tapovan to Nandanvan via Gaumukh Glacier
Trek to Nandanvan: Trek from Tapovan to Nandanvan via GaumukhGlacier. This part of the expedition offers both challenging terrain and awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan landscape. Camp at Nandanvan: Set up camp at Nandanvan and spend the night surrounded by towering peaks.
Day 5
Nandanvan to Vasuki Tal
Trek to Vasuki Tal: Continue your trek from Nandanvan to Vasuki Tal, a high-altitude lake revered for its pristine beauty and spiritual significance. Camp at Vasuki Tal: Pitch your tents near Vasuki Tal, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere and preparing for the next day's journey.
Day 6
Rest & Acclimatization at Vasuki Tal
Rest and Explore: Take a day to rest and acclimatize at Vasuki Tal. Explore the area surrounding the lake, relishing in the natural splendor and peace of the Himalayas.
Day 7
Vasuki Tal to Khara Patthar
Trek to Khara Patthar: Depart from Vasuki Tal towards Khara Patthar. This leg of the journey introduces you to diverse terrains, offering mesmerizing views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Camp at Khara Patthar: Spend the night at Khara Patthar, nestled in this unique landscape.
Day 8
Khara Patthar to Sweta Glacier
Trek to Sweta Glacier: Continue your trek towards Sweta Glacier. This section of the journey brings you face-to-face with the vast glaciers of the region. Camp near Sweta Glacier: Experience camping near Sweta Glacier, gazing up at the expansive Himalayan sky.
Day 9
Sweta Glacier to Kalindi Base Camp
Ascend to Kalindi Base Camp: Trek from Sweta Glacier to Kalindi Base Camp, the starting point for crossing the challenging Kalindi Khal Pass. Preparation: Spend the evening making preparations for the pass crossing, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas.
Day 10
Kalindi Base Camp to Rajparav via Kalindi Khal
Cross Kalindi Khal: Trek from Kalindi Base Camp to Rajparav via Kalindi Khal, the most demanding part of the journey, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Descend to Rajparav: After conquering the pass, descend to Rajparav, a peaceful camping spot.
Day 11
Rajparav to Arwa Tal
Trek to Arwa Tal: Continue your descent from Rajparav to Arwa Tal, relishing in the changing landscapes and the tranquility of the remote Himalayas. Camp at Arwa Tal: Spend the night at Arwa Tal, reflecting on the journey and the serene beauty of the lake.
Day 12
Arwa Tal to Badrinath via Roadhead at Ghastoli
Trek to Ghastoli: Commence your trek from Arwa Tal to the roadhead at Ghastoli. Drive to Badrinath: From Ghastoli, embark on a drive to Badrinath, one of India's most sacred pilgrimage sites. Explore the Badrinath Temple and soak in the spiritual ambiance of the town.
Day 13
Badrinath to Dehradun
Departure from Badrinath: After spending a night in the holy town of Badrinath, start your journey back to Dehradun. This drive takes you through the scenic routes of Uttarakhand, offering one last opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Arrival in Dehradun: Reach Dehradun by evening, marking the end of your Himalayan adventure. Reflect on the experiences, challenges overcome, and the serene beauty of the trails from Kalindi Khal to Badrinath.
Reflections: Arriving back in Dehradun, take time to reflect on the journey through some of the most remote and challenging terrains of the Himalayas, the spiritual visit to Badrinath, and the overall accomplishment of trekking across Kalindi Khal.
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 Kalindi Khal trek difficult ?
Yes, the Kalindi Khal trek is considered difficult due to its high altitude, challenging terrain, and technical sections such as crossing the Kalindi Khal Pass.
How many days in Kalindi Khal Trek ?
It is a 13 Days and 12 Nights Trek starting from Gangotri to Badrinath.
How long is Kalindi Khal Trek ?
The Kalindi Khal trek typically spans about 13-14 days, covering a distance of approximately 99 kilometers, depending on the specific route chosen and the weather conditions encountered during the trek.
Why is Kalindi Khal famous ?
The Kalindi Khal trek is famous for its stunning views of Himalayan peaks, challenging terrain including the Kalindi Khal Pass, its natural beauty, religious significance with connections to sacred sites, and its appeal to adventure seekers.
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.