The Pangarchulla Peak Trek is an exhilarating high-altitude summit trek in Uttarakhand, reaching an altitude of 15,069 ft. Located near Joshimath in the Garhwal Himalayas, this trek offers a mix of dense forests, vast meadows, steep ridges, and snow-covered trails, making it a perfect choice for adventure enthusiasts. The final ascent to Pangarchulla Peak is a thrilling summit climb, offering panoramic views of some of the most iconic Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Hathi Parvat, and Dronagiri. Ideal for experienced trekkers, this trek is a great introduction to technical trekking and summit climbing in the Indian Himalayas.
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The best time for the Pangarchulla Peak Trek is during April to June and September to December. Spring (April-May) is the most popular season, with blooming rhododendrons and clear skies. Autumn (September-November) offers crisp air and spectacular mountain views. For those looking for a true snow trek, winter (December-February) provides a thrilling experience but requires extra preparation due to extreme cold. Monsoon (July-August) is not ideal due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails.
The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located about 20 kilometers away. This airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore through regular flights. Upon arrival at the airport, you can take a taxi, which takes approximately 45 minutes to reach Rishikesh. Alternatively, local buses might be available but are less frequent.
Rishikesh has its own railway station, Rishikesh Railway Station, which is conveniently located in the city. While this station handles limited trains, the nearby Haridwar Junction, just 25 kilometers away, offers excellent connectivity to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. From Haridwar, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Rishikesh, which takes around 30–45 minutes. Trains like the Yoga Express and Dehradun Express are popular choices for travelers.
Rishikesh is well-connected by road, and buses are a convenient option. From Delhi, which is about 240 kilometers away, both private and state-run Volvo buses operate from Kashmiri Gate ISBT. The journey takes approximately 6–7 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Additionally, regular buses from nearby cities like Dehradun and Haridwar make reaching Rishikesh easy and affordable.
Pack smart, trek safe!
Ensure you're prepared for every adventure with this essential checklist of gear and supplies. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trekker, the right equipment makes all the difference. Download checklist's pdf here
Backpack with Rain Cover | (40 - 50 ltr) Comfortable Shoulder Straps |
Day pack with Rain Cover | 20 - 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 Bottles(1 liter each), Hydration Pack 1 (Pack) + Bottle |
Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 1 Half sleeves |
Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Nos |
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | Not required |
Waterproof gloves | Not required |
Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Sun cap | 1 Nos. (One that covers the neck as well) |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | Not required |
Buff / Neck-gaiters | 1 Nos |
Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles - (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle with good grip) |
Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
Micro spikes | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
Sunscreen cream | 1 Nos |
Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
At Scoutripper, we understand that plans can change. You can reschedule your booking up to 24 hours before your experience begins. Changes are subject to availability and any applicable price adjustments. Rest easy knowing your adventure is flexible!
At Scoutripper, we value flexibility but also adhere to clear cancellation guidelines:
ATM Availability:
Last ATM: Joshimath (cash depletes quickly).
Best Option for Cash Withdrawals: Rishikesh (more reliable ATMs).
Carry at least Rs 4,000 - 5,000 for transport, gear rentals, and personal expenses.
If you plan to explore Joshimath after the trek, carry extra cash.
Mobile Network & Internet:
Network Available Till Joshimath – Airtel, Jio, and BSNL work well.
Beyond Joshimath:
Good connectivity till the first camp.
Patchy network after the first camp.
Possible signal availability on the summit day and at the top.
Pangarchulla Peak is located near Joshimath in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. It lies in the Nanda Devi National Park and offers breathtaking panoramic views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Hathi Parvat, and Dronagiri.
Depending on the season, the Pangarchulla Peak Trek is considered moderate to challenging. During summer (April-May), the trek involves boulder climbing and steep ascents. In winter (November-March), heavy snowfall makes the summit push more demanding, requiring technical skills and crampons for better grip.
The best time for the trek is April to June and September to November. In spring, the trail is filled with blooming rhododendrons, while in autumn, clear skies provide spectacular views. Winter treks (December-February) are for experienced trekkers due to extreme cold and heavy snowfall.
Pangarchulla Peak stands at an altitude of 4,590 meters (15,100 feet) above sea level. The trek involves a gradual ascent, and the final summit push can be quite demanding, especially in snowy conditions.
The trek usually takes 6-7 days to complete. The journey starts from Joshimath, with a drive to Auli or Dhak village, followed by a trek through Gulling, Khullara, and the summit climb to Pangarchulla Peak. The return follows the same route.
Yes, prior high-altitude trekking experience is recommended. The trek includes steep climbs, rocky terrain, and snow-covered sections, making it physically demanding. A good fitness level is essential, and experience with long treks above 12,000 feet is helpful.
Trekkers need to obtain permits from the Forest Department, as the trek passes through the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. If traveling with an organized trek group, they usually arrange the permits.
Trekkers stay in tents or guesthouses at lower altitudes, like Joshimath and Auli. Once on the trail, camping is the only option. Food provided is simple and nutritious, including rice, dal, roti, vegetables, tea, and snacks.
Essentials include layered clothing, waterproof boots, a windproof jacket, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, a trekking pole, a headlamp, and a first-aid kit. Due to heavy snow, gaiters, microspikes, and crampons are necessary during winter treks.
Absolutely! The trek perfectly blends adventure, challenge, and breathtaking scenery. The summit climb provides 360-degree views of majestic Himalayan peaks, making it a thrilling and rewarding experience for trekkers and mountaineers.