Embark on the Panwali Kantha trek to make a short holiday in the state of Uttarakhand extremely adventurous and memorable. The journey will take you to enchanting alpine grassland, situated at an elevation of around 13000 feet above sea level. If undertaking the excursion in winters, then the area will be blanketed by thick, fluffy snow. On the other hand, in summers you will see coniferous forests, rhododendron bushes and expanses of grass. The tour begins from the holy city of Haridwar, from where you reach the village of Ghuttu. Upon commencing the trek to Panwali Kantha from here, walk uphill to the breath-taking campsite of Gaurmanda.
The next leg of this Panwali Kantha trekking excursion brings a long ascent towards the highest point of the trip – the meadow itself. From the top, enjoy impressive views of the snow-bound peaks of the Himalayas, with lush trees growing at relatively lesser elevations. Remember to take pictures of these wonderful natural scenes before beginning the downhill stroll. Trace the way back to Gaurmanda cautiously, maintaining a comfortable speed as at higher velocities, the chances of tripping and getting hurt are more. Post an overnight camp in Gaurmanda, travel further downhill to Ghuttu, and upon reaching here travel by road to either Rishikesh or Haridwar.
Though the Panwali Kantha trekking tour is not long, it will nevertheless be slightly demanding. The continuous climb in its first two sections will require optimum fitness and concentration from you. Before embarking on it, you may consult a doctor to make sure that you are physically fit to hike. Even if going in summers, carry sufficiently warm clothes as the nights at high altitudes will be chilly. Do not undertake the foot excursion if you have fear of heights, breathing problems or if your leg and arm bone joints are weak.
Itinerary:
Day 01: Haridwar to Ghuttu | Ghuttu to Gaurmanda
On arrival at Haridwar Railway Station, meet our Panwali Kantha trek representative and travel by road to Ghuttu – a small village located about 5000 feet above sea level.
On arrival here, rest for some time and relish breakfast. Thereafter, start the foot jaunt and along the way, notice a number of shelters that locals have built to escape from the heat of summers. Following a walk of around 5 hours, reach Gaurmanda to camp at night. Gaurmanda is a flat stretch of land, surrounded by a lush oak jungle.
Day 02: Gaurmanda to Panwali Kantha
Early in the morning, begin an important stage of the Panwali Kantha trekking trip that will be slightly demanding. How long it will take to complete the hike depends on the amount of snow on the way. While walking uphill, you will see that the number of trees has started lessening significantly. Once you cross the tree line, only velvety green grasslands with shrubs will be visible.
As you near the Panwali Kantha ridge, a steep ascent will be encountered. When you finally reach the meadow, you will see only lush grass or cotton-like snow, depending on the season. On arrival at the grassland, set up tents for an overnight stay.
Day 03: Panwali Kantha to Gaurmanda
The uphill trek to Panwali Kantha had ended the previous day, and all that is left now is strolling downhill. Make the descent with heavy steps to keep a check on your speed. On the way, feast your eyes with the sight of rhododendron bushes above the tree line, and conifers below it. After reaching Gaurmanda, travel to the campsite to rest at night.
Day 04: Gaurmanda – Ghuttu – Haridwar/Rishikesh
In the early hours of the day, begin the ultimate leg of this Panwali Kantha trekking tour, and hike further downhill. On reaching Ghuttu, board a vehicle and travel to Haridwar/Rishikesh for your onward journey.
Duration: 03 Nights/ 04 Days
Region: Uttarakhand
Grade: Easy
Maximum Altitude: 11482 feet
1. Air Fare
2. Travel Insurance
3. Single supplements
4. Additional meals/services not mentioned in the above.
5. Charges for video/ still cameras etc.
6. Alcohol, beverages, soft drinks etc.
7. Personal expenses like tips, telephone calls, laundry, etc.
8. Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances like landslides, road blocks, bad weather, etc.
9. Insurance
10. Train fare extra. Can be arranged on request
11. GST @ 5.0%
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