Kanari Khal Trek

The multi-day trek commences at Joshimath and leads travelers through various landscapes, from rough mountain roads to lush forests, challenging climbs, and peaceful camping spots. This is a complete daily schedule.

Day 1: The trek begins at Joshimath and ends at Jumma. Then, Trek up to Ruing Village.

Driving Segment:

• Directions and Time: Drive around 3 km from Joshimath to Jumma (allow about 3 hours if you consider the roads difficult).
• The road takes you through picturesque villages, including Tapovan, Reni, Lata, Suraithota, and Phagti, as it follows the beautiful Dhauliganga River.
• Start with Jumma within an hour after departing Joshimath.
• Buy the necessary items for trekking and kerosene prior to starting. If the supplies are not sufficient, Stops at Suraithota along the route will provide enough relief.
• Situations: Be aware that the route is risky during the monsoon because of heavy rainfall and its proximity to the Tibetan border.
• An intense afternoon breeze in Jumma could intensify after you leave your car.

Trekking Segment:

• Start Point: Begin by crossing the iron bridge that spans the Dhauliganga River. Dhauliganga River.
• Route: Cross the bridge, then follow gradually rising slopes upwards through the forests to Ruing Village (approximately 3 km).
• Ruing Village: A tiny settlement with the possibility of two or three homes and a small shop selling necessities.
• The accommodation is readily available. However, the authorities in your area might limit the duration of your stay. If this happens, you might consider going to a meadow nearby before you begin the Dronagiri ascent.
• The meadow campsite provides a stunning natural setting but also helps make the climb up to Dronagiri more comfortable.

Day 2: Walk to Ruing up to Dronagiri Village

Elevation & Distance:

• Elevation Range: 2,800 m to 3,610 m.
• Distance: Around 8km, an average of 5-6 hours.

Route Details:

• Start the trek towards Dronagiri with a smooth and well-marked forest trail.
• Shortly after you have set off the road, you’ll come across an area susceptible to slide.
• At the trail’s point of divergence, you can take the climb path, which was once a route to Dronagiri through vast glaciers close to the Nandikund region.
• The trail runs through a remote gorge filled with loose rocks and other debris. Without local guides and porters, this section could be difficult.
• Climb Features: A steep section with steep slopes of about 60 degrees and several streams that cross.
• Take in breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped mountains like Hathi Parvat and Ghori Parvat. During the summer months, flowering wildflowers enhance the scenery.

Arrival in Dronagiri:

• After reaching Dronagiri, Follow an asphalt path until the indications of the decrepit town show up.
• NOTE: Dronagiri lacks shops; The nearest market is 20 km from Suraithota.
• Two campsites are accessible in the Dronagiri area: one is in the suburbs, and one is close to the GMVN facilities.
• Local rates can be negotiated (e.g., the most recent rates are around Rs.1,500 for an evening).
• Local Highlights: Discover town services like satellite phones to make local calls and streetlights powered by solar energy.
• The temple, built in honor of Bhumial, is situated on the most elevated point in this village, from which Mount Dunagiri is visible.

Day 3: Trekking to Dronagiri towards Longatulli

Elevation & Distance:

• Elevation Range: 3,610 m to 3,800 m.
• Distance: Approximately 3km; the estimated travel time will be around three hours.

Route Highlights:

• The trail leaves Dronagiri and follows a high ridge that provides a stunning view of Rishi Peak and Bagini Nala.
• The Key Landmark: Soon after leaving the bridge, you’ll cross Bagini Nala.
• Optional Route: At the bridge, the path diverges to Kanari Khal and eventually to Garpak Village. However, for this trip, go upwards straight ahead on a rocky route with solitary vegetation.
• In the first 90 minutes after crossing the bridge, a patch with greenery close to a stream is a good camping spot in the event of an emergency.
• Progression: Continue trekking:
• In about two hours, you can reach Bagini Lower Base Camp at 12,360 feet, where you can view Rishi Pahar, Satminal, and Hardeol mountains.
• Go for four more km and then follow a 45-minute trek to reach Bagini Upper Base Camp.
• Then, a beautiful climb brings the visitor up to Bagini Advanced Base Camp at 15,530 feet.

Trail Conditions:

• The trail generally stays steady, but it occasionally climbs abruptly.
• Early mornings are perfect for traveling through the Bagini Nala/Garud stream, with the water level rising later in the day.
• Navigation is made easier by Cairns (stone stacks) that mark the route.
• In Garud Base Camp (also known as Bagini Glacier), pause momentarily to gaze at the mist-shrouded and frozen mountain views.
• Notice: The evenings in Longatulli are typically very cold, so plan for an unhurried return.

Day 4: Walk to Longatulli Camp to Garpak via Kanari Khal

Elevation & Distance:

• Elevation Range: 3,800 m to 3,340 m.
• Distance: Approximately 13 km; expect an 8-9 hour trek.
• Route Overview:
  • Begin at the junction bridge over the Bagini River near Bagini Glacier.
  • Left and ascend an icy, small path. It is a shepherd’s route that curves through the high grassy field.
  • Continue to Kanari Khal, a mountain saddle visible following the passage of a slender valley.

Climb Details:

• Ascending Kanari Khal typically will take approximately an hour.
• From the top, enjoy stunning panoramas of Dunagari, its surrounding peaks, and Nandi Kund Pass, visible on the left.

Descent Options:

• At the top, Two paths are apparent:
• Right: Leads toward Kalla Khal.
• Left: Leads to Garpak Village.
• The climb to Garpak is treacherous in particular:
• Take a trip of 800 meters through smooth, slippery, grassy ridges and fast switchbacks.
• The typical descent covers about 4km in four hours.

Day 5: Trek from Garpak Through the Ruing route to Jumma and then back the way you came from to Joshimath

• Time and Distance: Approximately 8 km. It is covered in 7 to 8 hours.
• Highlights: Following a tiring and exhausting day, you can enjoy a picturesque trek across the Lampak and Bagini streams.
• Key Landmarks: Approximately 1 km from Garpak, cross an overpass spanning the Lampak stream.
• Follow the stream downstream to where Lampak rejoins Bagini stream. Then, cross the next bridge to access Ruing village’s trail.
• Take this route until you rejoin the route in Jumma.
• Return Segment: When you return to Jumma, you can arrange a Jeep drive from Jumma to Joshimath to complete your journey.

The itinerary blends challenging trek sections with rewarding views, historical stops, and valuable suggestions for safety and navigation. Ensure you are prepared and ready for the most unforgettable journey in this breathtaking scenery.