Explore Kagbhusandi Lake Trek - Amidst the Majesty of Garhwal Himalayas

Overview:

Discover the pristine beauty of Kagbhusandi Lake, a mesmerizing high-altitude lake nestled in the Chamoli Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an elevation of approximately 5,020 meters (16,470 ft), this sacred lake is surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and vibrant alpine meadows.

Trek Overview:

The journey to Kagbhusandi Lake begins from Govindghat, leading through the picturesque Bhundar village amidst a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, including the elusive Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and the majestic snow leopard. The trek, spanning approximately 66 kilometers round-trip, is a challenging yet immensely rewarding experience suited for seasoned trekkers in good physical condition.

Key Highlights:

• Natural Splendor: Encounter the crystal-clear blue waters of Kagbhusandi Lake, reflecting the towering Himalayan peaks that surround it, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle.
• Mythological Significance: Named after the mythological bird "Kagbhusandi" from Hindu lore, the lake holds spiritual significance and is revered by locals as a sacred site.
• Flora and Fauna: Explore diverse ecosystems along the trek, from dense forests to alpine meadows adorned with vibrant rhododendrons and aromatic cedar and oak trees.
• Nearby Attractions: Extend your adventure to nearby attractions such as Auli Hill Station, renowned for skiing and panoramic Himalayan views, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valley of Flowers, famous for its alpine flowers and rare wildlife.

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal times to embark on the Kagbhusandi Lake Trek are between May and June, when the alpine flora blooms in full splendor, or from September to October, when the weather is mild and clear, offering pristine views of the surrounding landscape.

Activities and Experience:

Engage in a variety of activities during your trek, including bird watching to spot Himalayan avifauna like the colorful Himalayan monal and the elusive golden eagle. Capture stunning photographs of the picturesque landscapes and indulge in nature walks to explore the rich biodiversity of the region.

Plan Your Expedition:

Prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Uttarakhand's wilderness with experienced guides and proper trekking gear. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and spiritual aura of Kagbhusandi Lake, where every step brings you closer to the wonders of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Itinerary:

Day 01: Drive from Rishikesh to Govind Ghat

On the first day of your trek, you will drive from Rishikesh to Govind. The entire journey takes you through the mountainside, with the River Ganga flowing below you. You also get to see the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers to form the Ganga river.

Day 02: Govindghat to Poona village 3.k.m by car Trek from Bhundar village to Roopdhungi

Start early and mark your way towards Bhundar village, which is the starting point of the trek to Kagbhusandi Lake. Although the first hour of the trek is steep, the slope becomes easier later on. On the first day of your trek you will face rocky terrain, glaciers, bushes, rivers etc. Enjoy the sound of the rushing water of the Alaknanda River as you move along. The route after Bhundar village passes through dense bear-infested rhododendron forests. While moving towards Roopdhungi, you will get the first glimpse of Elephant Mountain here. Overnight stay in tent at Roopdhungi.

Day 03: Trek Roopdhungi via Samartoli to Raj Kharak

After breakfast, we proceed to Roop Dhungi towards Simartoli and later to Raj Kharak. The entire route is beautiful and pleasing to the eyes. You will be walking on a colorful path with a variety of flowers in bloom and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the background. Passing through Kargil, Simartoli, Bankbara and Dang Khark we camp at Raj Khark for the day. These are beautiful campsites for all trekkers. Many shepherds from nearby villages use this area as pasture for grazing their animals.

Day 04: Trek from Raj Kharak to Kagbhusandi Tal via Kankul Pass

This is the most exciting day of our trek as we move from Raj Khark towards Kagbhusandi Tal. The initial route to reach the lake passes through green valley and beautiful meadows, later one has to climb over huge stones and walk on narrow paths. However, the quick view of the mesmerizing lake will keep you motivated to go through all the difficult routes. On the way you will get amazing views of Neelkanth (6596 m), Hathi Peak (6727 m), Ghodi Parvat (6590 m), Chaukhamba and Nar-Narayan peaks. The valley has a wide variety of flora and fauna. You can see Brahma Kamal, Myriad, Fen Kamal and many other flowers. Once you reach the lake, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of nature. Overnight stay at Kagbhusandi.

Day 05: Trek from Kagbhusandi to Gauncha Udiyar

After a healthy breakfast, continue your journey towards our next campsite. The 8 km route up to Gauncha Udiyar is covered with vast green meadows, gushing streams, towering panoramic views and alpine forests. Don't forget to click some amazing pictures on this route. This is the place where you can soak up the best that nature has to offer. After reaching Gauchha Udiyar, take a stroll through the area to meet the villagers and get a glimpse of their nomadic and peaceful culture. After a busy day relax in a temporary tent at Gauncha Udiyar.

Day 06: Trek from Gauncha Udiyar to Penka to Govindghat

Put on your hiking shoes and start your journey to Panka village, the last day of our trek on foot. After reaching Panka, we proceed towards Govindghat for night stay. Panka is a small and beautiful village situated in the lap of Garhwal Himalayas. The trek passes through dense forest area along rocky and narrow paths. You will also get to see the waterfall coming from Barmal Peak. The beauty of this place will surprise you and you will definitely want to come here again. The blissful padyatra ends after reaching Govindghat. Check in to the guest house arranged by us. Enjoy a hot dinner and enjoy the whole evening.

Day 07: Drive from Govindghat to Rishikesh

This is the last day of our journey and the feeling of trekking experience is unforgettable. We take back some wonderful memories and incredible moments to enjoy for the rest of our lives. Board our waiting vehicle and head back to Rishikesh. Lunch en route and the journey ended at Rishikesh.

Package Inclusions

• Conservation entry permits, fees for Trek
• Tent accommodation during the Trek days
• All meals in each day while on the trek /Journey All program according to itinerary on full board
• Fully escorted trek with fluent speaking license holder local trekking guide
• Mules/porter for trekking luggage
• Trekking crew charges (attractive salary and wages), equipment charges and other facilities to Uttarakhand trekking staff.
• All charges for tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, kitchen tents, camping stool, etc.

Package Exclusions

• Travel Insurance
• Any sort of transportation to reach Joshimath and back.
• Any other kind of insurance
• Costs and expenses for medical evacuation or otherwise in case of any emergency.
• Meals – other than breakfast lunch and dinner as indicated in the itinerary above
• Mineral water and other beverages/drinks
• Any kind of personal expenses/bills
• Any drinks, tips for the guide and porter, etc Anything which is not mentioned above.

Picture Gallery