# Gulabikantha Trek > Gulabikantha Trek is a 5-day easy–moderate trek in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, reaching 3,658 m (12,000 ft). It covers about 24 km on foot and starts and ends at Hanuman Chatti. Best time: October to April. Trekkaro price: ₹8,500 per person + 5% GST, with free trekking gear (Decathlon shoes, -10°C jacket and poles). Next batch: 10 Oct 2026 (35 upcoming batches). Source: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/gulabikantha-trek (Trekkaro Adventures Pvt. Ltd.). Prices, dates and seats change often: always confirm on the trek page. ## Key facts - **Duration:** 5 days - **Difficulty:** Easy–Moderate - **Highest point:** 3,658 m / 12,000 ft - **Trekking distance:** 24 km - **Region:** Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand - **Start / end:** Hanuman Chatti - **Best time:** October to April - **Temperature:** Summer (April–June): Daytime: 8°C to 15°C, Night: 0°C to 7°C, Winter (Dec–Jan): Daytime: -2°C to 5°C, Night: -12°C to -5°C - **Price:** ₹8,500 per person + 5% GST (was ₹10,900) - **Free trekking gear:** Included (Decathlon shoes, -10 C jacket, trekking poles; gaiters and microspikes when needed) - **Next batch:** 10 Oct 2026 (35 upcoming) ## Overview Gulabi Kantha is a meadow that has only recently been noticed. Local villagers and guides introduced it to a few media channels, and an ITBP team came up from Matli to see whether its slopes could one day host skiing. Walk up to it today and the trail is still quiet: tall pine, oak and maple overhead, a forest silence broken only by birdsong and rustling leaves. Then the forest gives way to open meadow, and at 12,000 ft the Garhwal peaks stand in a ring around you. The Gulabikantha trek climbs out of the Yamuna Valley through dense forest of pine, oak and maple, past the wooden houses and terraced farms of Nishni village, to the forest camp of Kandola. From there it rises across the alpine meadows of Seema Thatch, scattered with wildflowers among rolling hills, and up a steeper trail to the Gulabikantha summit meadow. The view at the top runs a full 360°: Bandarpoonch and Chaukhamba, Swargarohini, Black Peak, Kalindi Srikala and Draupadi ka Danda, with the Shivalik ranges below. Gulabi Kantha is a vast alpine meadow on the way to the Dodital freshwater lake, and it remains largely untouched by heavy footfall. The Gulabikantha trek is an easy-moderate trek in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It starts and ends at Hanuman Chatti (2,134 m / 7,000 ft), a peaceful village and the last motorable point on the road to Janki Chatti, close to the sacred Yamunotri Temple, one of the Char Dham shrines. The trail climbs to a single camp at Kandola (2,590 m / 8,500 ft), and the summit day passes Seema Thatch (3,200 m / 10,500 ft) on the way to the top at 3,658 m (12,000 ft). Over five days the trek covers about 24 km on foot. It is still one of the lesser-known trekking destinations in Uttarakhand. In our experience, it is one of the most rewarding first summits a beginner can choose in the Uttarkashi district. ### A Ring of Peaks at 12,000 Feet – What Makes the Gulabikantha Trek Unmissable Everything on the Gulabikantha trek leads to one day and one view. You leave Kandola early, with a packed lunch and the summit still hidden somewhere above the trees. For the first hours you walk through pine and oak, and then the forest opens onto the meadows of Seema Thatch, a wide, gentle shelf of wildflowers and rolling ground at 10,500 ft. You pause there. You look up at what is left. From here the trail turns steeper and asks for real effort, and with every step more of the Himalaya appears over the shoulder of the slope. After about four to five hours of climbing from camp, the gradient eases, the ground levels into a broad meadow, and you are standing on the summit at 3,658 m (12,000 ft). You sit down. You take out your lunch. You turn slowly in a full circle, and in every direction there is another mountain. The width of that view is what sets Gulabikantha apart. Bandarpoonch and Chaukhamba stand out first, with Swargarohini, Black Peak and Kalindi Srikala along the skyline, Draupadi ka Danda among them and the Shivalik ranges falling away below. Clouds drift across the peaks like brushstrokes on a canvas, and the panorama changes as they move. At sunrise and sunset these mountains are bathed in gold. Then, when you are ready, you walk back down the way you came, through Seema Thatch and the forest, to the same camp you left that morning. There is no camp to strike and no new site to reach before dark, and in our experience that makes the big day far more enjoyable, especially for first-time trekkers. Kandola itself is part of what makes the trek. You spend two nights at this forest camp at 2,590 m (8,500 ft), set among alpine forest and mountain slopes. In the evening the sky over the surrounding ridges glows in warm colours as the sun goes down; at night the sky fills with stars; in the morning you wake to sunrise over the hills. After the summit, an evening back at Kandola is a time to rest and share stories of the day under a starlit sky. ### The Trail Itself The trail leaves Hanuman Chatti and enters dense forest almost at once. Tall pine, oak and maple form a canopy overhead, and the ground is often carpeted with fallen brown maple and pine leaves, so the path is soft underfoot. The climb is gradual, about 5 km and 456 m (1,500 ft) of height gain to Kandola, and the area is rich in flora and fauna, with seasonal wildflowers, Himalayan birds and the occasional sighting of wildlife. On the way you pass Nishni, a small Himalayan hamlet of traditional wooden houses and terraced farms. The mild climb around the village gives you a glimpse of everyday mountain life. Above Kandola the forest gives way to the open meadows of Seema Thatch, and above that the upper slopes rise more steeply to the summit meadow. On the way down to Hanuman Chatti the trail is steady with some steep patches, and the views open over the Yamuna Valley. The trek ends where it began, in a quiet village where a stroll through the lanes introduces you to the warm hospitality of local people. A short 3 km drive or walk away is Garam Kund, a natural hot water spring whose warm, mineral-rich water is believed to soothe sore muscles after the summit day. ### Who Is This Trek For? The Gulabikantha trek is graded Easy - Moderate, and in our view it makes an excellent first Himalayan trek. Without snow it is a gentle trek that beginners with basic fitness can manage; snow in the winter months adds some challenge. Two of the three walking days are short: 5 km in 3–4 hours up to Kandola, and 5 km in 2–3 hours back down, with some steep downhill patches. The hard day is the summit day: about 14 km (7 km up and 7 km down) in 7–8 hours, with a climb of about 1,068 m (3,500 ft) and the same height back down, on a trail that becomes noticeably steeper after Seema Thatch. Basic fitness, such as walking 4–5 km a day with a small backpack, is the minimum; good stamina and leg strength make the summit day far more enjoyable, especially on steep or snowy sections. We recommend 4–6 weeks of preparation before departure. Minimum age: 8 years, accompanied by adults. Upper age: depends on fitness, stamina and the ability to handle high altitude. Daily trekking hours: 2–8 hours. Season: January to April and October to December. ### Key Highlights of the Gulabikantha Trek - **Gulabikantha summit (3,658 m / 12,000 ft)** – a vast alpine meadow with a 360° Himalayan panorama - **A long line of Garhwal peaks** – Bandarpoonch, Chaukhamba, Swargarohini, Black Peak, Kalindi Srikala and Draupadi ka Danda, with the Shivalik ranges below - **Seema Thatch (3,200 m / 10,500 ft)** – open meadows with wildflowers and rolling hills on the way to the top - **Kandola forest camp (2,590 m / 8,500 ft)** – two nights in one camp, with sunset over the ridges and a starry sky - **Pine, oak and maple forest** – a soft, leaf-carpeted trail with Himalayan birdsong - **Nishni village** – traditional wooden houses and terraced farms on the climb from Hanuman Chatti - **A quiet, offbeat meadow** – largely untouched by heavy footfall, and explored by the ITBP for winter sports such as skiing - **Garam Kund** – an optional dip in a natural hot spring, 3 km from Hanuman Chatti, after the trek ### Best Time to Do the Gulabikantha Trek The Gulabikantha trek runs from October right through to April, and Trekkaro recommends December to April as the best time to go. Across that window the meadow moves from settled autumn weather to deep winter snow and then into spring bloom, and each part of the season gives the same short route a very different feel. #### October to November – Autumn (Clear Trails) The season opens with pleasant weather, clear trails and green landscapes. The forest walking is comfortable, and the summit view can be enjoyed before the winter snow arrives. For trekkers who want a quiet, easy-going introduction to the Himalaya before the cold sets in, this is a calm and comfortable time to go. - **Trail conditions:** Clear trails and pleasant walking weather. - **Best for:** A comfortable first trek, quiet forest walking and the summit view before winter. #### December to February – Winter (Snow Season) In winter the meadow transforms. Snow settles over Gulabi Kantha, turning the summit into a wide white slope, and this becomes the season for those seeking a challenging snow trek or a skiing experience. Snow on the upper trail and the summit makes the climb slower and more tiring, and the nights at Kandola are properly cold. It is also, in our experience, the time when the meadow and its ring of peaks look most striking. - **Temperatures:** December–January: Day: -2°C to 5°C | Night: -12°C to -5°C - **Trail conditions:** Snow on the upper trail and summit; slower climbing; very cold nights. - **Best for:** A snow trek, a snow-covered summit meadow and winter landscapes. #### March to April – Spring (Meadows in Bloom) As winter loosens its grip, March and April bring blooming meadows and pleasant trekking conditions. The days grow milder and the meadows begin to bloom, though snow can still lie on the higher slopes early in this period. We find this the most balanced window of the year. - **Temperatures:** April: Day: 8°C to 15°C | Night: 0°C to 7°C - **Trail conditions:** Pleasant walking; meadows starting to bloom; snow possible higher up early in the season. - **Best for:** Blooming meadows, milder nights and comfortable conditions for beginners and families. #### Trekkaro Recommendation Trekkaro recommends December to April for Gulabikantha. For a full snow trek and the summit meadow under winter cover, book December to February. For blooming meadows, milder nights and the most comfortable conditions for first-time trekkers and families with children aged 8 and above, March to April is our pick. For a quiet trek on clear trails before the snow arrives, October to November works well. ## Itinerary ### Day 1: Dehradun to Hanuman Chatti **Route Details:** **Drive: Dehradun → Hanuman Chatti (162 km, 7–8 hrs) | Altitude: 2,134 m (7,000 ft) | Stay: Guesthouse / homestay (triple or quad sharing)** Day 1 is a road day. Start the drive from Dehradun by 6:30 to 7:00 AM and you reach Hanuman Chatti before dark. The 162 km take 7 to 8 hours. The road climbs through Mussoorie, then runs via Damta, Naugaon, Barkot and Syana Chatti, with deep valleys, pine and oak forest, and the Yamuna alongside. Barkot, about 1 hour 30 minutes before the base camp, is the last reliable ATM and the last stable mobile network; Jio does not work well in this region. Withdraw enough cash and finish your calls there. Shops higher up mostly take cash, and the signal is almost gone by Hanuman Chatti. Hanuman Chatti is a peaceful village in Uttarkashi district and the base camp for the trek. It lies on the road to Janki Chatti, 5 km from the Yamunotri Temple. You stay in a guesthouse or homestay on a triple or quad sharing basis, with dinner included. Spend a quiet evening by the river and sleep early. What to Expect: - Early start from Dehradun, by 6:30–7:00 AM - 162 km drive (7–8 hrs) via Mussoorie, Barkot and Syana Chatti - Last ATM and stable mobile network at Barkot - Yamuna River views and pine and oak forest along the road - Quiet evening by the river, dinner included - Overnight: Hanuman Chatti (2,134 m / 7,000 ft) ### Day 2: Hanuman Chatti to Kandola **Route Details:** **Altitude: 2,134 m → 2,590 m (8,500 ft) | Distance: 5 km | Duration: 3–4 hrs | Terrain: gradual forest trail of pine, oak and maple, past Nishni village | Stay: Tents at Kandola** Day 2 begins with a light breakfast and a short briefing from the Trekkaro team, and you set off at 7:00 AM. The walk to Kandola is a gradual ascent of about 456 m (1,500 ft) over 5 km, which takes 3 to 4 hours. It is a gentle first day and a good one for finding your rhythm. Soon after Hanuman Chatti, the trail enters dense forest. Tall pine, oak and maple trees close overhead, and the path is often covered with fallen brown maple and pine leaves, soft and quiet underfoot. The only sounds are birdsong and rustling leaves. Walk at a pace where you can still talk. If you are too out of breath to speak, slow down. Partway up, you pass through Nishni village, a small hamlet of traditional wooden houses and terraced farms. The climb is mild around the village, and it is a good place for a short break and a look at mountain life up close. The last stretch brings you to Kandola at 2,590 m (8,500 ft). The campsite sits among forest and mountain slopes, with views of the surrounding ridges. Lunch and evening snacks are served at camp, and the afternoon is yours to rest. Drinking water at camp is boiled or treated with chlorine tablets; ask your trek leader before you refill anywhere else. At sunset the sky over the ridges glows warm, and on a clear night the stars are out in full. Sleep early. Tomorrow is the longest day of the trek. What to Expect: - 7:00 AM start after breakfast and a short briefing - Gradual 5 km climb with about 456 m (1,500 ft) of height gain - Dense pine, oak and maple forest on a leaf-covered trail - Nishni village, with wooden houses and terraced farms - Sunset and sunrise views over the ridges from camp - Overnight: Tents at Kandola (2,590 m / 8,500 ft) ### Day 3: Summit Day - Kandola to Gulabikantha via Seema Thatch and back **Route Details:** **Altitude: 2,590 m → 3,200 m (Seema Thatch) → 3,658 m (12,000 ft) → 2,590 m | Distance: 14 km (7 km up, 7 km down) | Duration: 7–8 hrs | Terrain: pine and oak forest, alpine meadow, steeper climb to the summit | Stay: Tents at Kandola** Summit day is long, so you start early from Kandola with a packed lunch in your bag. The first part of the trail winds through dense pine and oak forest at a steady gradient, which gives you time to warm up before the real climbing. The forest then opens onto the alpine meadows of Seema Thatch at 3,200 m (10,500 ft), with rolling hills around you and wildflowers in season. Take a short break here and drink water. Above Seema Thatch the trail turns steeper. This is the hard section of the day, and it stays with you until the top. The full ascent takes about 4 to 5 hours. Climb in short steps, pause briefly and often, and keep your breathing steady. In winter, snow adds to the effort, so use your poles and walk in the line your guide sets. At the Gulabikantha summit, 3,658 m (12,000 ft), the view opens in a full 360° circle. Peaks line the skyline: Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Swargarohini, Kalindi Srikala, Chaukhamba, Draupadi ka Danda, Jorkanden, Gangotri and Yamunotri, along with the Shivalik mountains. Clouds drift across the ridges. You eat your packed lunch at the top, take your photographs and rest. Then you retrace your steps down through Seema Thatch to Kandola. The return is quicker, but it is still 7 km downhill on tired legs, so keep your poles out and your steps short. The evening at camp is relaxed. Dinner, a warm tent and a starlit sky over the forest close the day. What to Expect: - Early start with a packed lunch for the summit - Pine and oak forest, then the meadows of Seema Thatch (3,200 m / 10,500 ft) - Steeper climb above Seema Thatch; about 4–5 hrs of ascent in total - 360° summit view including Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Black Peak and Chaukhamba - Lunch at the summit, then descent by the same route - Overnight: Tents at Kandola (2,590 m / 8,500 ft) ### Day 4: Kandola to Hanuman Chatti **Route Details:** **Altitude: 2,590 m → 2,134 m (7,000 ft) | Distance: 5 km | Duration: 2–3 hrs | Terrain: steady downhill through pine and oak forest, some steep patches | Stay: Guesthouse / homestay at Hanuman Chatti** The last walking day is short and easy. You have breakfast around 7:00 AM and start down from Kandola. The trail is a steady descent of about 456 m (1,500 ft) over 5 km, back through the pine and oak forest you climbed through on Day 2. It takes 2 to 3 hours. Easy does not mean careless. There are some steep descending patches, and trekking poles make a real difference on them. Keep your weight over your feet, shorten your stride on the steep parts and let the poles take load off your knees. On the way you pass Nishni village again, and the trees open to views over the Yamuna Valley. The trek concludes at Hanuman Chatti. If you want more from the day, Garam Kund, a natural hot water spring, is a short 3 km away by road or on foot. We recommend the dip. The warm, mineral-rich water is believed to soothe sore muscles after summit day. You spend the night at a guesthouse or homestay in Hanuman Chatti on a triple or quad sharing basis, with lunch and dinner included. Take a slow walk through the village lanes in the evening. The locals are warm, and a few words in their language are always appreciated. What to Expect: - Breakfast around 7:00 AM, then an easy 5 km descent - Some steep patches on the way down; trekking poles help - Nishni village and views over the Yamuna Valley - Optional 3 km trip to the Garam Kund hot spring - Evening walk through the village lanes - Overnight: Hanuman Chatti (2,134 m / 7,000 ft) ### Day 5: Hanuman Chatti to Dehradun **Route Details:** **Drive: Hanuman Chatti → Dehradun (162 km, 7–8 hrs) | Altitude: 2,134 m (7,000 ft) | Route: Syana Chatti, Barkot, Naugaon, Damta, Mussoorie** The last day is the drive back to Dehradun, about 162 km and 7 to 8 hours by road. The route runs through Syana Chatti, Barkot, Naugaon and Damta, then descends via Mussoorie into the Doon Valley. Pine and oak forest line the road, and the Yamuna flows alongside in parts. Barkot is the first place on the way down with a reliable ATM and mobile network, and a good spot for a short halt. Meals on the road are not included, so plan a stop for lunch. As the road winds down, the cool mountain air gives way to the plains. You arrive in Dehradun by evening, with easy onward connections by train, bus or flight. What to Expect: - 162 km drive, 7–8 hrs, via Barkot, Naugaon, Damta and Mussoorie - Yamuna River and pine and oak forest along the road - ATM and mobile network again at Barkot - Meals on the road are not included - Evening arrival with onward train, bus and flight connections - Trek ends at Dehradun ## Inclusions 1. Free Trekking Gear (FTG) – A Budget-Saving Game Changer! Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear (FTG) initiative lets you save 100% on gear purchases and rentals—ideal for budget-conscious trekkers!Get access to premium-quality gear, including: - Quechua Trek 100 Shoes (worth ₹6,999) - Quechua SH100 Jacket (-10°C) (worth ₹3,299) - Trekking pole and more—no rental fee (a ₹3,000 refundable deposit + a ₹200 washing charge)! 2. Comfortable Accommodation - Day 1 to Day 4: Full-service camping with large mess tents, tables, and 3-person tents during the trek. - Hanuman Chatti Stay: Guesthouse or homestay on a triple/quad sharing basis. 3. Nutritious Meals - All meals are included from Day 1 dinner to Day 4 dinner - Freshly prepared, simple vegetarian food - Tea, coffee, soups, and snacks are served regularly during the trek 4. Camping & Permit Charges - All necessary trekking permits and forest camping fees included 5. Certified Trek Leaders & Guides - Experienced trek leaders supported by local certified mountain guides - Ensuring both safety and local expertise 6. Premium Trekking Equipment Provided - All technical equipment required during the trek is included: - High-quality tents, sleeping bags - Ice axes, micro spikes, gaiters, ropes, and more 7. Safety First – Emergency Support at Every Camp - First-aid kit, medical support, and oxygen cylinders - Stretchers are available at each campsite for emergency evacuation ## Exclusions 1. Food During Transit - Meals during travel to and from the base camp (Hanuman Chatti) are not included. You’ll need to arrange your food while in transit. 2. Transport – Basecamp Transfers - Shared taxis from Dehradun to Hanuman Chatti and back are not included. They can be arranged at an additional cost of ₹6,500 per vehicle (one-way, 6-seater), payable directly to the driver. - We help arrange shared cabs for the group; the fare is paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers 3. Backpack Offloading Charges If you choose not to carry your backpack: - ₹1,500 + 5% GST for the full trek - Max weight: 9 kg - No suitcases, trolleys, or duffel bags allowed - Charges may be higher for last-minute offloading requests made at Hanuman Chatti 4. Single Tent Occupancy Do you prefer your tent or travelling as a couple? - ₹2,000 + 5% GST per tent for the entire trek - Ideal for solo trekkers seeking privacy or couples sharing a tent - Spacious enough for 1 or 2 people to stay comfortably 5. Anything Not Mentioned Under Inclusions - If it’s not specifically listed under the “What’s Included” section, it’s not part of the package. Please plan accordingly and ask in advance if you’re unsure. - **Travel insurance:** mandatory and not included. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. ## How to reach **By Air:- ** Jolly Grant airport is located 25 kilometers from the city, serving to Dehradun. Daily flight from Delhi to Dehradun. **By Train:-** Take the train from Delhi to Dehradun overnight Nanda Devi Express(12205):- Departure:- 23:50; Arrival:- 05:40 Dehradun Express(12687):- Departure:- 21:10; Arrival:- 05:00 **By Bus:-** Regular bus service is available from Delhi (ISBT Kashmere Gate) to Dehradun. We suggest that you take only government buses from the ISBT Kashmere Gate. Private buses run from outside ISBT Kashmere Gate and they are not trustable. Usually, the buses left you in the Dehradun ISBT. From there you have to come to Dehradun railway station via Ola/Uber Cab/Auto Rickshaw/Shared Three Wheeler. There is no direct bus to Hanuman Chatti run by the Uttarakhand Government, so you have to share a cab with **Trekkaro** co-trekkers. ## ATM and mobile network Important Pre-Trek Information Last ATM – Barkot - The last reliable ATM before reaching Hanuman Chatti is located at Barkot, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes before the basecamp. Trekkers are strongly advised to withdraw sufficient cash here, as ATMs are either unavailable or non-functional beyond this point. Local shops, tea stalls, and transport providers in the higher regions mostly rely on cash transactions, so carrying enough money is a must. Mobile Network – Barkot - Barkot is also the last point where you’re likely to get a stable mobile network, except for Jio, which doesn’t work well in this region. After Barkot, connectivity drops significantly, and by the time you reach Hanuman Chatti, mobile signals are almost non-existent. Ensure you complete all important calls, update family members, and settle urgent communication needs before moving ahead. By keeping these essentials in mind, you’ll have a smoother transition from city convenience to the peaceful wilderness of Hanuman Chatti and beyond. ## Frequently asked questions ### Where is the Gulabikantha trek? The Gulabikantha trek is in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, above the Yamuna Valley. It starts from Hanuman Chatti (2,134 m / 7,000 ft), about 162 km and 7–8 hours by road from Dehradun via Mussoorie and Barkot. From Hanuman Chatti the trail climbs through pine, oak and maple forest past Nishni village to Kandola camp, then over the Seema Thatch meadows to the 3,658 m summit. ### How many days is the Gulabikantha trek? The Gulabikantha trek takes 5 days from Dehradun to Dehradun, with 3 trekking days covering about 24 km. - **Day 1 and Day 5:** drive between Dehradun and Hanuman Chatti (162 km, 7–8 hours) - **Day 2 and Day 4:** 5 km between Hanuman Chatti and Kandola, 2–4 hours - **Day 3 (summit day):** about 14 km and 7–8 hours to the summit and back ### What is the altitude of the Gulabikantha trek? The highest point of the Gulabikantha trek is the summit at 3,658 m (12,000 ft). The trek starts at Hanuman Chatti (2,134 m / 7,000 ft), so you gain about 1,500 m, most of it on summit day. - **Kandola camp:** 2,590 m / 8,500 ft - **Seema Thatch meadow:** 3,200 m / 10,500 ft - **Summit:** 3,658 m / 12,000 ft, climbed and descended on Day 3 ### How difficult is the Gulabikantha trek? The Gulabikantha trek is graded Easy–Moderate: the approach and return days are short and gradual, but summit day is long, with a steeper climb above Seema Thatch. Snow from December to April adds to the challenge. - **Day 2:** a gradual 5 km climb with about 456 m (1,500 ft) of height gain - **Summit day:** 14 km and 7–8 hours, with 4–5 hours of ascent - **Descent:** some steep patches on the way down to Hanuman Chatti ### Is the Gulabikantha trek good for beginners? Yes, the Gulabikantha trek is suitable for beginners with basic fitness, as it is short and graded Easy–Moderate. Without snow it is a gentle hike apart from the steeper summit climb. From December to April snow makes summit day harder, and microspikes and gaiters are provided when needed. ### What fitness level do I need for the Gulabikantha trek? For the Gulabikantha trek you need basic fitness and enough stamina for a 14 km summit day of 7–8 hours, with a steeper climb near the top. Good leg strength makes the steep and snowy sections easier. - **Cardio:** regular brisk walks, jogging or stair climbing in the weeks before - **Strength:** squats and lunges for the climb and the descent - **Practice:** walk with a small loaded backpack ### What is the best time for the Gulabikantha trek? The best time for the Gulabikantha trek is October to April, the months the trek runs. December to April is the snow season, while October and November bring cold nights on mostly clear trails. - **December–April:** the trail is usually under snow, so pack for a snow trek - **October–November:** cold nights and pleasant days - **Monsoon:** the trek does not run in July and August ### Is there snow on the Gulabikantha trek? The Gulabikantha trek is usually under snow from December to April, with the most snow on the higher sections and at the summit. The lower camps are milder. When there is snow on the trail, microspikes and gaiters are provided free with Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear. ### How cold does it get on the Gulabikantha trek? Temperatures on the Gulabikantha trek range from about 10°C in the day to -8°C at night. In December–January, days are around -2°C to 5°C and nights fall to -12°C to -5°C. - **Layers:** 5 warm layers from December to April, 3–4 in October–November - **Outer jacket:** a padded -10°C jacket is part of the Free Trekking Gear - **Snow months:** add a balaclava and waterproof gloves ### Which mountains can you see from the Gulabikantha summit? The Gulabikantha summit (3,658 m) gives a 360° view that includes Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Black Peak and Chaukhamba. Views along the way take in the ridges around Kandola and the Yamuna Valley. - **Seema Thatch:** alpine meadows at 3,200 m on the way to the summit - **Kandola camp:** sunset and sunrise views over the ridges - **Descent:** views over the Yamuna Valley near Nishni village ### What is the terrain like on the Gulabikantha trek? The Gulabikantha trek climbs through forest to open alpine meadows, then up a steeper final slope to the summit. From December to April the upper sections are under snow. - **Forest:** pine, oak and maple on a leaf-covered trail - **Village:** Nishni, with wooden houses and terraced farms - **Meadows:** Seema Thatch at 3,200 m - **Summit slope:** a steeper climb above Seema Thatch ### Is there a risk of altitude sickness on the Gulabikantha trek? The risk of altitude sickness on the Gulabikantha trek is relatively low, because you sleep no higher than Kandola (2,590 m) and climb to the 3,658 m summit and back in one day. Summit day has the biggest gain, about 1,070 m, so walk at a steady pace. - **Safety kit:** first-aid kit, medical support and oxygen cylinders at every camp - **Medicines:** carry any altitude medicine your doctor advises - **Symptoms:** tell the trek leader early about a headache, nausea or breathlessness ### What is the minimum age for the Gulabikantha trek? The minimum age for the Gulabikantha trek is 8 years. Trekkers under 18 must come with a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit. Trekkers above 60 are welcome if they are fit and in good cardiovascular health; along with the medical certificate signed by a doctor that every trekker brings, we recommend an ECG or TMT report. ### How do I reach the Gulabikantha trek base camp? To reach the Gulabikantha trek, travel to Dehradun; the cab to Hanuman Chatti leaves early, by 6:30–7:00 AM, for the 162 km, 7–8 hour drive. Reach Dehradun the day before and confirm the pickup point with Trekkaro when you book. - **By air:** Jolly Grant Airport (DED), about 25 km and 45–60 minutes from Dehradun city - **By train:** Dehradun Railway Station (DDN); the Nanda Devi Express runs overnight from Delhi - **By bus:** Uttarakhand Roadways buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate to Dehradun ISBT take about 6–7 hours - **Return:** the drive back takes 7–8 hours, so book a late-night train or bus, or travel the next day ### Is transport from Dehradun included in the Gulabikantha trek? No, transport between Dehradun and Hanuman Chatti is not included in the Gulabikantha trek fee. Trekkaro arranges a shared cab at an additional cost of about ₹6,500 one way per 5–6 seater vehicle, split among trekkers and paid directly to the driver. - **Onward:** Day 1, early start from Dehradun - **Return:** Day 5, Hanuman Chatti to Dehradun, arriving in the evening - **Meals on the road:** not included on the drive days ### Where do we stay on the Gulabikantha trek? On the Gulabikantha trek you stay two nights in a guesthouse or homestay at Hanuman Chatti and two nights in tents at Kandola camp. Tents are shared by three trekkers, and the guesthouse is on a triple or quad sharing basis. - **Day 1 and Day 4:** guesthouse or homestay at Hanuman Chatti (2,134 m) - **Day 2 and Day 3:** tents at Kandola (2,590 m), with large mess tents, tables and sleeping bags - **Single tent:** ₹2,000 + 5% GST per tent for the whole trek, for solo trekkers or couples ### What is the group size on the Gulabikantha trek and who leads it? Gulabikantha trek fixed departures run with 6 to 20 trekkers, never more than 20. Each group is led by an experienced, certified trek leader trained in Wilderness First Aid, supported by local certified mountain guides. - **Support team:** assistant guides, local staff and porters or mules for logistics - **Private treks:** available for any group size ### Is the Gulabikantha trek safe for women trekking alone? Yes, the Gulabikantha trek is safe for women trekking alone, and the safety of women trekkers is a top priority. Guides and support staff are carefully selected, trustworthy and reliable. - **Tents:** women share tents only with other women - **Couples and families:** separate tents are arranged as required - **Valuables:** keep your personal belongings safe ### What food is served on the Gulabikantha trek? All meals on the Gulabikantha trek are included from Day 1 dinner to Day 4 dinner: simple, freshly prepared vegetarian food, with eggs available on request at the campsite. Tea, coffee, soups and snacks are served regularly. - **Summit day:** a packed lunch, eaten at the summit - **Not included:** meals during the drive to and from Hanuman Chatti - **Bring:** a reusable lunch box and some dry fruits or energy bars ### Is drinking water safe on the Gulabikantha trek? Yes, drinking water on the Gulabikantha trek is boiled or treated with chlorine tablets at the camps. Check with the trek leader before refilling anywhere on the trail. - **Bottles:** carry two 1 L bottles - **Snow months:** make one bottle insulated so the water does not freeze - **ORS:** carry a few sachets for the trail ### Is Free Trekking Gear included in the Gulabikantha trek? Yes, the Gulabikantha trek includes Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear, so you do not need to buy or rent shoes or a jacket. One refundable deposit of ₹3,000 plus a ₹200 washing charge covers the whole kit. - **Shoes:** waterproof trekking shoes with ankle support (worth ₹6,999) - **Jacket:** padded jacket rated to -10°C (worth ₹3,299) - **Trekking pole:** steadies you on steep and snowy sections - **Snow gear:** microspikes and gaiters when there is snow ### Can I offload my backpack on the Gulabikantha trek? Yes, backpack offloading on the Gulabikantha trek costs ₹1,500 + 5% GST for the full trek. Book it at least 15 days in advance; last-minute requests made at Hanuman Chatti may cost more. - **Weight limit:** 9 kg - **Bag type:** no suitcases, trolleys or duffel bags - **Day pack:** carry a 20–30 L day pack for water, snacks and a layer ### Is there a doctor on the Gulabikantha trek? No doctor travels with the Gulabikantha trek, but the trek leaders are trained in Wilderness First Aid and carry a complete first-aid kit. Medical support, oxygen cylinders and a stretcher for emergency evacuation are available at every camp. - **Own medicines:** carry prescriptions, remedies for common ailments and any altitude medicine your doctor advises - **Before booking:** check your health, or seek medical advice if unsure ### What documents do I need for the Gulabikantha trek? For the Gulabikantha trek you need an original government photo ID and a travel insurance policy that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. The ID is checked at forest check posts and for trek registration. - **ID:** passport, Aadhaar card, driving licence or voter ID - **Photocopy:** keep one with the original in a waterproof pouch - **Insurance:** mandatory and not included in the trek fee ### Do I need a permit for the Gulabikantha trek? Yes, the Gulabikantha trek needs permits, and all necessary trekking permits and forest camping fees are included in the trek fee. You only need to carry your original photo ID for the forest check posts. Keep a photocopy of the ID with the original in a waterproof pouch. ### Is there mobile network and an ATM on the Gulabikantha trek? Barkot, about 1 hour 30 minutes before Hanuman Chatti, is the last reliable ATM and the last point with a stable mobile network on the Gulabikantha trek. Beyond Barkot the signal drops sharply, and at Hanuman Chatti and on the trail it is almost non-existent. - **Jio:** does not work well in this region - **Cash:** withdraw enough in Dehradun or Barkot, as shops and transport beyond mostly take cash - **Calls:** finish important calls before leaving Barkot ### What is summit day like on the Gulabikantha trek? Summit day on the Gulabikantha trek (Day 3) is a 14 km round trip from Kandola that takes 7–8 hours, climbing from 2,590 m to 3,658 m and back. You start early with a packed lunch and eat it at the summit. - **First section:** pine and oak forest up to the Seema Thatch meadows (3,200 m) - **Final climb:** steeper above Seema Thatch, with about 4–5 hours of ascent in total - **Descent:** by the same route back to Kandola camp ### Is there a hot spring near the Gulabikantha trek? Yes, on Day 4 of the Gulabikantha trek there is an optional 3 km trip to the Garam Kund hot spring after the descent to Hanuman Chatti. The descent from Kandola is short, 5 km in 2–3 hours, which leaves time for it. In the evening you can also walk through the village lanes of Hanuman Chatti. ### Can the Gulabikantha trek itinerary be changed? Minor changes to the Gulabikantha trek itinerary are possible, but the trek’s completion date must stay as scheduled. If weather or other unexpected events force a change, the trek leader suggests the best alternate plan. The trek ends on Day 5 with the 7–8 hour drive to Dehradun, so plan onward travel around that date. ### Can I book a private or customised Gulabikantha trek? Yes, Trekkaro offers private and customised Gulabikantha treks for any group size, at your own pace. The cost depends on the number of trekkers, the duration and the type of trek. Fixed departures, by comparison, need at least 6 trekkers and take a maximum of 20. ### How do I book the Gulabikantha trek and when should I book my travel? To book the Gulabikantha trek, choose your date, fill in the booking form and pay online; the booking is confirmed instantly, and the itinerary and gear checklist are emailed to you. Once payment is complete it shows as Paid in My Bookings, so you can book your travel right away. Plan to reach Dehradun the day before the trek, as the cab to Hanuman Chatti leaves early in the morning. --- Book or ask questions: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/gulabikantha-trek · WhatsApp +91 80576 54321