Trekking Map of KumaonKumaon, a picturesque region in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is known for its natural beauty, with Himalayan peaks, lush forests, pristine lakes, and charming villages. The trekking areas of Kumaon offer a wide variety of experiences, ranging from easy treks to challenging high-altitude adventures. Here are some of the notable trekking areas in Kumaon:
Kedarkantha Trek
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6-7 days
Max Altitude: 3,800 meters (12,500 feet)
Best Time to Visit: December to April (for snow)
This trek is known for offering stunning views of the Himalayan ranges and an exhilarating experience for beginners. The trek starts from Sankri village and takes you through dense forests, snow-covered meadows, and a spectacular summit offering panoramic views.
Munsiyari & Milam Glacier Trek
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Duration: 7-9 days
Max Altitude: 4,290 meters (14,078 feet)
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Munsiyari, often called the “Little Kashmir,” is a base for trekking to Milam Glacier. The trek involves navigating through remote villages, dense forests, alpine meadows, and ultimately reaching Milam Glacier with a breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks, including Nanda Devi.
Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 9-10 days
Max Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,800 feet)
Best Time to Visit: May to October
This trek takes you through some of the most beautiful and isolated parts of the Kumaon region, with views of the Nanda Devi massif. The base camp offers stunning views of the mountain and surrounding peaks, making it a bucket-list trek for avid trekkers.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Trek
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 3-4 days
Max Altitude: 2,420 meters (7,940 feet)
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. The trek is relatively easy and takes you through thick oak forests, where you can spot wildlife like the Himalayan Black Bear, Leopards, and various bird species, along with panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.
Roopkund Trek
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 8-9 days
Max Altitude: 5,029 meters (16,500 feet)
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Roopkund, also known as the “Mystery Lake,” is famous for the human skeletons found near the lake. The trek to Roopkund offers breathtaking views of high-altitude meadows, snow-covered paths, and rugged landscapes. It is a tough trek, best suited for experienced trekkers.
Pindari Glacier Trek
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 8 days
Max Altitude: 3,660 meters (12,008 feet)
Best Time to Visit: May to October
One of the most popular treks in Kumaon, the Pindari Glacier Trek takes you through charming villages, lush forests, and high-altitude terrains, all the way to the Pindari Glacier, offering splendid views of snow-clad peaks.
Kauri Pass Trek
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 5-6 days
Max Altitude: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet)
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
The Kauri Pass Trek is known for offering panoramic views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kamet. This trek takes you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and along rivers, with a gentle climb that makes it suitable for beginners.
Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila Trek
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3-4 days
Max Altitude: 4,000 meters (13,123 feet)
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
This trek leads you to the Tungnath Temple, one of the highest temples in the world, and continues to the summit of Chandrashila, which provides 360-degree views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
Dwali Trek
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 5-6 days
Max Altitude: 3,200 meters (10,498 feet)
Best Time to Visit: May to October
This trek is a good introduction to trekking in the Kumaon region. Starting from the town of Almora, you’ll pass through scenic villages, terraced fields, and dense forests, finally reaching Dwali, a picturesque spot near the base of the Nanda Devi range.
Sunderdhunga Glacier Trek
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Duration: 7-9 days
Max Altitude: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet)
Best Time to Visit: May to October
The Sunderdhunga Glacier Trek offers a remote and serene experience. The trek takes you through dense forests and scenic meadows, with views of snow-capped peaks. It’s an off-the-beaten-path trek that’s perfect for those seeking solitude.
Brahmatal Trek
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6-7 days
Max Altitude: 3,400 meters (11,155 feet)
Best Time to Visit: December to March (for snow)
A hidden gem in the Kumaon region, the Brahmatal Trek offers beautiful views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks, including Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. It is less crowded compared to other treks, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful trekking experience.
Loharkhet-Khati-Toli Trek
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 4-6 days
Max Altitude: 2,600 meters (8,530 feet)
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
This trek takes you to the serene village of Khati, from where you can explore various landscapes and enjoy views of the higher peaks. It’s a peaceful trek that combines nature, culture, and heritage.
Key Trekking Routes Overview:
Easy Treks: Binsar, Kauri Pass, and Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila offer easy to moderate trekking options.
Moderate Treks: Roopkund, Pindari Glacier, and Brahmatal are ideal for trekkers looking for slightly challenging yet beautiful routes.
Challenging Treks: Nanda Devi Base Camp, Munsiyari & Milam Glacier, and Sunderdhunga Glacier are for experienced trekkers looking for a more rugged and high-altitude adventure.