Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek

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Uttarakhand
13N/14D

Trek Grade

Challenging

Highest Altitude

5,490 mtrs

Base Camp

Sankari

Best Time

May, June, Sept & Oct

Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek

The Dhumdhar Kandi Pass trek is a challenging 12-14-day trek that showcases the stunning topography and high altitudes of the Himalayas. This adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers seeking to push their limits and experience the beauty of nature. The trek involves crossing two passes, traversing snow-covered mountains, and navigating steep valleys, culminating in a visit to Yamunotri.

Located at 5490 meters (18,011 feet), the Dhumdhar Kandi Pass, also known as the “Smoky Forest,” connects the holy pilgrimage sites of Gangotri and Yamunotri in Uttarakhand. Historically, it served as an ancient route for villagers from Gangotri and Uttarkashi to access the remote Tons valley. The trek offers unique features such as the presence of Kalanag (Black Peak), glaciers from Swargorohini or Bandarpoonch feeding the Bhagirathi and Yamuna rivers, and its location at the base of the famous peaks of Garhwal Himalayas: Kalanag (Black Peak) and Swargarohini (Swargarohini).

The Dhumdhar Kandi Pass trek is renowned for its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather. It is suitable for experienced trekkers with proficiency in using ice axes and microspikes and strong physical and mental endurance. It is a dream adventure for thrill-seekers and is best undertaken in May, June, and September.

Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek Videos

Videos by experts watch these videos to prepare well for a Successful Tre

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Want To Trek Like Pro?

Check out the following videos if you want to trek like a pro trekker and improve your skills. These videos contain helpful tips, tricks, and techniques to help you trek like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these videos can provide valuable insights to enhance your trekking experience. So, watch the videos below by Trekup India experts to take your trekking skills to the next level.

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Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness is a medical condition that can occur when individuals travel to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet. It is caused by the decrease in air pressure and oxygen levels in the air as altitude increases. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness, it is important to gradually adjust to high altitudes and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. To learn more about this condition, check out the videos by Trekup India.

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Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Dhumdhar Kandi Pass

DAY 1: DEHRADUN-SANKRI

Drive from Dehradun to Sankri/Saur (1920m) through the Yamuna and Tons valleys, across the Yamuna bridge, and enjoy the beautiful view of dense pine forests. Upon reaching Sankri in the evening, you can witness the stunning sunset behind the mountain ranges. The Sankri base camp offers a beautiful view of all four peaks in the Swargarohini range. Overnight camping in Sankri under the clear, starry sky is a memorable experience.

Participants are expected to arrange transportation to the Sankri base camp at an additional cost. Trekup India will organize a taxi from Dehradun to Sankri base camp.

Upon nearing Sankri, we’ll pass through the Govind National Park checkpoint, marking the end of our drive around 6 PM. Once at the guest house, you’ll have ample time to freshen up and rejuvenate. The nearby market beckons, offering a variety of trekking essentials, clothing, and equipment. This is the perfect opportunity for any last-minute shopping before we embark on our trek.

DAY 2: SANKRI-TALUKA

The journey from Sankri to Taluka involves a scenic drive through dense forests and gushing water streams. Taluka is a quaint village with traditional house structures and a few local eateries offering delicious food. Trekkers can take a break here before embarking on the 14km trek. This trek provides a diverse experience, with rocky terrain, wooden bridges, and lush green trails alongside the Supin River. The route also offers opportunities to spot various animals and birds. Additionally, trekkers will come across numerous freshwater streams along the way. The day’s journey ends in Seema, reached via Gangar village, where trekkers will camp on a small green field just before Seema.

DAY 3: SEEMA-DEVSU BUGYAL

This trek may be shorter, but it is incredibly picturesque. As you walk along, a river flows to your left, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountains and expansive valleys with impressive waterfalls. This area is a haven for photographers, as it is home to various rare species of Himalayan birds, animals, and flowers. After a short, steep climb to Devsu Bugyal, trekkers will camp here.

DAY 4: DEVSU BUGYAL-RUINSARA LAKE

Trek from Start to Ruinsara Lake on a gradual ascent that offers excellent views of the snow-covered mountains and vast valleys with huge waterfalls. The area is home to several rare species of Himalayan wildlife. On your left, observe Har-ki-Doon Valley, below the confluence of Har-ki-Doon and Ruinsara rivers. Look for a steep descent towards the Ruinsara River through a forest trail. Trekkers will have to cross a wooden bridge over the Ruinsara River. Observe the Ruinsara Valley on your right. Passing through mountain bends, one will have to walk through a landslide area, and depending on the conditions, one may have to use ropes to cross over the broken bends. Observe the Ruinsara Lake, surrounded by meadows where the trekkers will camp.

DAY 5: RUINSARA LAKE-ODARI

Day 5 will be a light day for the trekkers, promising breathtaking Ruinsara and Kyarkoti Valley views. The entire Swargarohini range will be visible at a touching distance for the first time, attracting the trekkers. The climb towards Bali Odari will suddenly get steeper, and the trekkers will feel the altitude gain. The Bali base camp, or “Odari,” will please your eyes as the Swargarohini massif will be at your back, and the whole area will be covered with snow. The camp will be set here.

DAY 6: ODARI-KALANAG BASE CAMP

After having breakfast, start trekking towards the base camp of Mt. Kalanag (6387 mt), the highest peak of saraswati mountain range

DAY 7: KALANAG BASE CAMP- DHUMDHAR KANDI PASS- BELOW PASS

Start early in the morning from Kalanag Base Camp towards Dhumdhar Kandi Pass. Get some magnificent views of Swargarohini, Bandarpunch and Kalanag from Dhumdhar Kandi Summit. Descend down towards Below Pass by evening.

DAY 8: BELOW PASS-BUGIYAL CAMP.

Trek towards Bugiyal Camp through lush green meadows.

DAY 9: BUGIYAL CAMP-GUNTUNALA CAMP.

DAY 10: GUNTUNALA CAMP-KYARKOTI

DAY 11: KYARKOTI-SHEPHERD CAMP.

DAY 12: SHEPHERD CAMP-JHALA CAMP

Day 13: JHALA-UTTARKASHI

Day 14: UTTARKASHI-DEHRADUN

Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek Route Map

We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek, which outlines the entire journey including all stops and trails. This map provides detailed information on the terrain, distance between points of interest, and estimated travel time to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. We’ve carefully curated the map to ensure that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Please take a moment to review it thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek Altitude Chart

The Trek Altitude Chart is a useful tool for Trekkers to monitor their altitude changes during their rides, allowing them to plan their routes more efficiently and track their progress over time. This Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek chart is beneficial for both casual and experienced Trekkers, helping them make the most out of their Trek experience.

Trek Cost Inclusions

  1. Stay: 12 Nights of tented accommodation at individual campsites of Trekup India on twin sharing & 1 night at sankari in hotel.
  2. Meals: Trekup India will provide freshly cooked meals during the trek starting with Dinner on Day 1 to  tea, coffee on day 14 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian) 
  3. Transport Dehradun to snakri and return.
  4. Trek Insurance (Optional): Trekup India recommends that all trekkers consider getting trek insurance. This is optional, but highly recommended. Trek insurance covers unexpected events that may occur during your trek. The cost of the insurance starts from INR 210. Please read more about what is included in the coverage and why it is mandatory on treks.
  5. Trek Equipment:  Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
  6. Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.    
  7. Health & Safety:  First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
  8. Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee 
  9. Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
  10. Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.

Trek Cost Exclusions

  1. GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
  2. Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
  3. Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point 
  4. Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication. 
  5. Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
  6. Any still / video camera fee 
  7. Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot. 
  8. Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage (Offload Charges for bag 365 per day, per bag if paid online (at base camp 2,550). Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
  9. Any emergency evacuation charges
  10. Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.

What should you pack for the Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek

Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek

 is a high-altitude trek. The trekking gear you have to have for this particular trek differs from normal treks. Thus, read this whole segment. There is an important question that the trekker who is doing trek asks, like what all things to carry while trekking. Below, we have provided the details on everything you should take; an easy way to remember is by Head to foot or foot to head. We have prepared from Head to foot.

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Head Gears

When trekking it's important to carry headgear to protect your head and face.

Heading out for a trek? Don’t forget to carry headgear to protect your beautiful face and head from the sun, wind, and dust! It’s an essential accessory that keeps you safe and comfortable throughout your adventurous journey. So, make sure you pack it before you step out into nature!

  1. Head Lamps – When trekking at night, headlamps are essential to illuminate your path while keeping your hands free. Headlamps come in different sizes and lumens, so it is essential to choose one that suits your needs.
  2. Hats or Cap – Caps or hats are also necessary when trekking in different weather conditions. Caps protect your head from the wind and freezing temperatures at night, while hats provide shade and protection from the sun during the day. It’s essential to ensure that your hat has a strap to prevent it from being blown away by the wind.
  3. Sunglasses – Sunglasses are also essential for trekking. Your sunglasses should protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and fit your face perfectly to avoid falling off while climbing, jumping, or crossing obstacles. The glass of your sunglasses should also be designed for different weather conditions to provide optimal visibility.
  4. Buff / Balaclava – Lastly, a buff or balaclava is a must-have to protect your mouth or neck from extreme temperatures and keep them warm. Buffs and balaclavas come in different materials, thicknesses, and designs, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Depending on the weather conditions and your activities, you can wear them as neck warmers, face masks, or headbands.
With these essential items, you can enjoy trekking safely and comfortably, no matter the weather or time of day.

Clothes

When trekking in high altitudes, prepare for cold weather by wearing layers. Layering traps heat, keeps you warm, and allows you to easily adjust your clothing as temperatures fluctuate.

Layering is important for different seasons when trekking. When planning a high-altitude trek, it is important to prepare for the cold weather. Wearing layers is the best approach as it provides both protection and flexibility when the weather changes frequently in the mountains. Layering helps to trap heat and keep your body warm, while at the same time allowing you to easily adjust your clothing as the temperature fluctuates. By wearing layers, you can enjoy your trek comfortably and stay safe in the unpredictable mountain weather

  1. For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
  2. For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
  3. For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
  4. T-shirt/sleeve shirt– Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants, wearing one and carrying the others. Long sleeve shirts help to protect from sun UV rays. We recommend synthetic T-shirts as they get dry quickly when they get wet.
  5. Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
  6. Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
  7. Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
  8. Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
  9. Trek Pants– Bring 2 to 3 comfortable trekking pants. Trekking pants play a significant role, as they are designed for comfort and mobility, making trekking easier. It should be Synthetic so that it gets dry quickly when wet.
  10. Rain Wear– you can carry a raincoat or Poncho. During long rains and snowfalls, the waterproof jackets start leaking. Still, the Poncho and raincoats keep you dry, so choose accordingly.

Tip: If you choose a raincoat on your trek, carry a small waterproof cover so things inside your backpack can’t get wet. If you carry a Poncho, you don’t need to worry. It protects both you and your backpack.

Foot Gears

When it comes to planning a trek, one of the most important aspects is to ensure that you have the right kind of foot gear.

  1. Trekking shoes which are waterproof and have ankle support. Walking / Hiking sandals which can be used off the trek, i.e., in the morning and evening hours when you reach the campsite, basically to get your feet rest from heavy boots, sometimes used for crossing streams and rivers, it’s more comfortable and safer than crossing barefoot or wetting your shoes. Sneakers (Optional) can be worn for normal driving days or used around the camp.
  2. Socks– you should at least carry 3 to 4 pairs.
  3. Microspikes & Gaitorswill be provided by Trekup India when required. You don’t have to carry them.

Personal First Aid Kit

Don't forget to pack your personal first aid kit! It's always better to be safe. So, make sure you're prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

Below are some common medicines generally required/used during your adventure trip; however, please consult your doctors prior.

  1. Antiseptic towel or water syringe (to clean the wound)
  2. Butterfly bandage for a small cut
  3. Cotton and elastic bandages and sterile gauze pad for larger wounds
  4. Latex gloves are used when the wound bleeds.
  5. Medicine for Diarrhea (Upset stomach)
  6. Medicine for cold, flue/fever, headache
  7. Some pain killers
  8. ORS pouches
  9. Quick pain relief spray (External use)
  10. Any personal medicine prescribed by your doctor
  11. Dimox / Similar for high altitude sickness
  12. Bug Repellent
  13. Carry some nutria/energy bars and drinks (non-alcoholic)
  14. Note: Kindly consult your doctor before purchasing or taking any medicine.

Gadgets and Other Items

You might also consider bringing a camera, binoculars, portable charger, and snacks. Be well-prepared and tackle any trail with confidence.

  1. Trekking Poles
  2. Mobile phone
  3. Camera
  4. Spare batteries for phone and camera, power bank
  5. Lightweight flashlight or headlight
  6. A waterproof bag made of plastic is used for the camera.
  7. Plug/converter for electrical items
  8. 1-litre water bottle
  9. A journal with a pen would be a good idea to keep your notes.
  10. Some book of your interest for the ideal time
  11. Get into the habit of maintaining a Map and guidebook of the region.

Hygiene & Personal toiletry

Remember to pack hygiene and personal toiletry items such as soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and toilet paper.

  1. Sunscreen with UV protection to shield your skin from harmful rays
  2. 1 or 2 small quick-drying towels to help you dry off quickly in case of rain or sweat
  3. Toilet paper, tissues or wet wipes for maintaining hygiene while on the trek
  4. Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouth freshener to keep your mouth clean and fresh throughout the journey
  5. Deodorant or talcum powder to help you stay fresh and odor-free, especially during hot and humid climates
  6. Shampoo to keep your hair clean and healthy
  7. Sanitary pads or tampons (for female trekkers) to manage menstrual cycles
  8. Lip-gloss or salve to protect your lips from dryness and chapping
  9. Bio-degradable soap to keep yourself clean and hygienic while on the trek
  10. Nail clipper and other personal items that you use daily
 
By packing these items, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.