Discover the Majestic Ronti Saddle Trek

Trek Overview:

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas with the Ronti Saddle Trek, a spectacular trail nestled between the towering peaks of Nanda Ghunti and Trishul. This trek promises awe-inspiring views of some of the highest summits in India, including Nanda Ghunti (6,309 m) and Trisul I (7,120 m), II (6,690 m), and III (6,007 m).

Route Overview:

The Ronti Saddle Trek follows a captivating path, starting with the renowned Roopkund on the fourth day. From there, the trail continues through Ronti Saddle and Channia Ghat, concluding in Sithail. Along the way, trekkers are treated to the pristine beauty of Bugyals (high-altitude meadows) such as Bedni and Ali, offering serene vistas of the surrounding Nanda Ghunti and Trishul peaks.

Key Highlights:

• Scenic Beauty: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayan giants, Nanda Ghunti and Trishul, throughout the trek.
• Roopkund Excursion: Explore the mysterious Roopkund Lake, known for its ancient skeletons and surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.
• High-altitude Meadows: Wander through lush Bugyals like Bedni and Ali, carpeted with wildflowers and offering uninterrupted views of the snow-clad peaks.
• Cultural Insights: Experience the local culture and hospitality of the Garhwal region as you pass through charming villages along the route.

Why Choose Ronti Saddle Trek:

The Ronti Saddle Trek is not just a trekking expedition; it's a journey into the heart of the Himalayas, where every step unveils a new facet of natural beauty and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a nature enthusiast seeking a profound mountain experience, this trek offers the perfect blend of challenge and reward amidst some of the most iconic peaks in Uttarakhand.

Plan Your Adventure:

Join us on the Ronti Saddle Trek for an unparalleled exploration of the Himalayan wilderness. Let our experienced guides lead you through this extraordinary landscape, where each day brings you closer to the wonders of Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, and the mystical charm of Uttarakhand's high-altitude treasures.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Dehradun (640 m) to Sutol (2,200 m), Distance: 280 km

If you have signed up with Biktat for a drive from Dehradun to Sutol, our day starts early. We all gather at the meeting point by 7 am so that we can start our long drive to Sutol, a small village in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. We reach Sutol via Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, Devprayag and Karnaprayag. Although there's nothing else on the agenda today except a 10 to 12 hour drive and settling into the mountain air, it's better to leave as early as possible for two reasons:

One, so that we can arrive as early as possible and give our bodies adequate rest for the next day. And, two, roads in the mountains are unpredictable and it is always better to take into account delays when we start out. It is also better to reach before dark.

Day 2: Sutol (2,200M) to Tatra (2,680M), Distance: 6 km

We start the first day of our journey towards Tatra which is 6 kilometers away from Sutol. Sutol is the last motorable village towards our destination. This route takes us up into the valley through dense forests and bushes. Tatra is a small farming village at an altitude of 2,680 meters, making our altitude during the day around 480 meters.

Day 3: Tatra (2,680M) to Lata Khopri (3,080M), Distance: 9-10 km

Today will be a long day, but will remain within the work area. We continue our journey through the forest and reach an open space called Lata Khopri. This is where we set up camp for the night.

Day 4: Lata Khopri (3,080M) to Chanimaghat, Distance: 10 km

It's as eventful a day as it is long as we pass through some of the deep lush green forests of the Nanda Devi Biosphere and cross several streams. Crossing the river is the hardest part of this pleasant day of hiking.

Day 5: Chanimghat to Dodang (4,480 m), Distance: 6 km

We move towards Dodang which is at an altitude of 4,480M. Du Dang literally means Two Boulders, named for two huge boulders present at the site. The campsite is marked by these stones forming a cave.

Day 6: Dodang (4,480 m) to Homkund (4,060 m) and Ronti Saddle (5,300 m) to Sila Samudra (4,000 m), Distance: 11 km

We start our trek early. After a few easy patches we see a sharp rock break off to the right, almost like a 90 degree slab of clay. We follow the path that descends slightly to the left of the ridge. The ridge gradually turns to the right to bring you to Homkund. After praying, we begin the steep snowy climb to Ronti Saddle.

The initial struggle and walking over rocks for about 2 kilometers and then back through the snow field brings us to the top. It is a steep and arduous 2 hour climb from Homkund to Ronti Saddle with an elevation of 1300 metres. You will be walking on ice most of the time. The view from the top of Ronti Saddle is breathtaking. Ronti Peaks 1, 2, Trishul 1, 2, 3, Nanda Ghunti all stand tall around the saddle. Dronagiri looks mesmerizing, which is made even more special by the fact that due to its location only a few people are able to experience this majestic peak.

From here, we head to our camping site for tonight which is on the rocks of the Sila Sea at an altitude of 4,000 metres. Sila means rock and Samudra means sea – the name of the campsite literally translates as Sea of Rocks and this couldn't be more accurate for the rocky moraines that make up this area.

Day 7: Sila Samudra (4,000 m) to Junaragali (5,050 m) to Sila Samudra (4,000 m), Distance: 8 km

Today is the day we will go to Roopkund and it is also the day that will require a lot of concentration. There is a steep climb up to Junairagali Pass and from there a steep descent down to Sila Samudra, with a height difference of over 1000 meters on either side. Snow makes these steep slopes even more tricky.

After a hard day of travelling, we are back at our old camp site at Sila Sea.

Day 8: Sila Samudra (4,000M) to Lata Khopri (3,080M), Distance: 12 km

We return back the same way we came and cover a long distance of 12 kilometers during the day and reach Lata Khopri tonight. But since we are losing altitude, this is a relatively easy day compared to our last few days on the trek.

Day 9: Latakopadi (3,080M) to Sutol (2,200M), Distance: 15 km

We leave the Tatras and head straight to Sutol today.

Day 10: Sutol (2,200M) to Dehradun (640M), Distance: 280 km drive

Expected to reach Dehradun by late evening. We would recommend that you plan your journey out of Dehradun late at night or the next day.

Day 11: Buffer Day

This day can be used on any day of the itinerary as needed – in case of bad weather or if a rest day is required. The cost of this day is included in the total trek cost.

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.

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