The Bamsaru Khal Trek is a moderate-level trek located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It is known for its stunning Himalayan views, alpine meadows, and diverse flora and fauna. The trek is also considered to be the ancient conjunction of the Gangotri and Yamunotri rivers.
Here is a complete guide to the Bamsaru Khal Trek:
Day 1: Rishikesh to Uttarkashi (185 km/6 hours)
- Take a taxi or bus from Rishikesh to Uttarkashi.
- In Uttarkashi, you can visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering.
Day 2: Uttarkashi to Bhebra (Drive: 16 km, Trek: 8 km, Altitude: 2250 m)
- Take a taxi from Uttarkashi to Bhebra.
- Start the trek from Bhebra and camp overnight near Dodital Lake.
Day 3: Dodital to Darwa Top (6 km/8 hours, Altitude: 4200 m)
- Trek from Dodital to Darwa Top, enjoying the views of the Himalayas.
- Camp overnight at Darwa Top.
Day 4: Darwa Top to Bingad (9 km/7 hours)
- Trek from Darwa Top to Bingad, passing through meadows and forests.
- Camp overnight at Bingad.
Day 5: Bingad to Gidara Bugyal (10 km/8 hours)
- Trek from Bingad to Gidara Bugyal, the largest and highest meadow in Uttarakhand.
- Camp overnight at Gidara Bugyal.
Day 6: Gidara Bugyal to Hanuman Ganga Glacier (5 km/5 hours)
- Trek from Gidara Bugyal to the Hanuman Ganga Glacier.
- Spend some time exploring the glacier and then camp overnight near it.
Day 7: Hanuman Ganga Glacier to Bhagirathi River (8 km/6 hours)
- Trek from the Hanuman Ganga Glacier to the Bhagirathi River.
- Camp overnight near the river.
Day 8: Bhagirathi River to Gangotri (12 km/5 hours)
- Trek from the Bhagirathi River to Gangotri, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites.
- Visit the Gangotri Temple and take a dip in the holy Ganges River.
Day 9: Gangotri to Harsil (25 km/8 hours)
- Take a taxi from Gangotri to Harsil.
- Spend some time exploring Harsil, a beautiful town located in the Himalayas.
Day 10: Harsil to Rishikesh (185 km/6 hours)
- Take a taxi or bus from Harsil back to Rishikesh.
Here are some additional tips for planning your Bamsaru Khal Trek:
- The best time to do the trek is between April and June or September and October.
- The trek is moderately difficult, so you should be in good physical condition.
- Make sure to hire a qualified guide who is familiar with the route.
- Pack warm clothes, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots.
- Bring plenty of food and water.
- Be prepared for altitude sickness.
- Respect the local culture and environment.
Note:
- This is a moderate-level trek, so ensure good physical fitness.
- Hire a qualified guide familiar with the route.
- Pack appropriately for weather changes and altitude.
- Respect local customs and preserve the environment.
Bamsaru Khal Trek: FAQs
General:
Is Bamsaru Khal Trek famous?
While not as renowned as some other Himalayan treks, Bamsaru Khal is gaining popularity among experienced trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Its untouched beauty, diverse landscapes, and historical significance make it a unique and rewarding experience.
Is Bamsaru Khal Trek worth going for?
Absolutely! If you’re a seasoned trekker looking for a challenging and scenic trek, Bamsaru Khal is definitely worth considering. The meadows bursting with wildflowers, the serene alpine lakes, and the panoramic Himalayan views are sure to leave you mesmerized.
What is the difficulty level of Bamsaru Khal Trek?
Bamsaru Khal Trek ranges from moderate to difficult, depending on your fitness level and trekking experience. The trek involves steep climbs, river crossings, and high altitudes, requiring good physical stamina and acclimatization.
Logistics:
Where is Bamsaru Khal Trek located?
The trek starts from Sangamchatti or Agoda village in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It winds through the Garhwal Himalayas, passing through meadows, forests, and alpine lakes, eventually reaching the Bamsaru Khal pass at an altitude of 4,600 meters.
What is the best time to do Bamsaru Khal Trek?
The ideal trekking season for Bamsaru Khal is from May to October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially in the monsoon months.
How long is the Bamsaru Khal Trek?
The complete trek typically takes 9-10 days, covering a distance of approximately 78 km. The itinerary can be customized to fit your preferences and fitness level, with shorter options available as well.
Permits and Regulations:
Do I need a permit for Bamsaru Khal Trek?
Yes, a trekking permit is mandatory for all trekkers in the Garhwal Himalayas. You can obtain the permit from the District Forest Officer (DFO) office in Uttarkashi.
Are there any special regulations for Bamsaru Khal Trek?
As the trek passes through sensitive ecological zones, responsible tourism practices are essential. Minimize your impact on the environment by practicing proper waste disposal and respecting the local flora and fauna.
