Pangarchulla Trek: Best Time to Visit and Tips for Your Successful Journey

Give your rating
Average: 4.7 (3 votes)
banner
Profile

Rohit SEN

Loyalty Points : 220

Total Trips: 7 | View All Trips

Post Date : 08 Jun 2024
32 views

One such exciting and challenging trek here is the Pangarchulla trek. It is a beautiful trek, and all trekkers should go for it once in their lifetime. This trekking experience is the best, as when you trek to the summit, you have the best views of the beautiful and tallest peaks in the Garhwal Himalayas mountainous region.

The trek starts with lush woodlands but changes to traversing through oak trees before you finally reach snow-clad mountains. It is a difficult trek, no doubt, but if you have experience, it will be an enlightening experience for you. 

When is the Best Time for The Pangarchulla Trek?

The Pangarchulla Trek is not open any other month except April, the spring season. Due to excess snow, going for the trek before April is not the right choice. After April, the snow does melt, but the route becomes slippery, which is not ideal for the trek. 

April is the perfect month for trekking to Pangarchulla. Sure, the remainder of the route is open for the entire month; doing the summit climb is ideal during April only. 

What is the Difficulty level of The Pangarchulla Trek?

It is a difficult trek! So, hands down, anyone who is new to trekking should refrain from going on this trek. It requires high stamina, and endurance level with 100% mental and physical strength. The terrain has different variety and also the weather can make the path steep and rough with deep snow covering a few paths occasionally. So, a good fitness level along with a strong mindset is a prerequisite for this trek.

What are the Tips for a Successful Pangarchulla Trek?

Make Sure You Trek at the Right Time and Month

As mentioned above, the Pangarchulla trek is best undertaken in April, especially in its last week. It ensures there is no snow on the lower ground, which makes it easier to set up a base camp. Doing this is so necessary. So, ensure you pick the right time to trek and gather all the information before you book your trek.

Make Sure You Stick to Your Turnaround Time

The weather at the Pangarchulla Trek is unpredictable. So, being strict with your turnaround time is crucial. It should not be later than 12 p.m., and if you start the trek to the summit towards Khullara base camp, the turnaround time should be 11 a.m. If the weather starts to get worse, ensure you abort your trek and return to the nearest camp. 

Always Carry a Climbing Rope 

It is necessary that you carry an ice ax, a micro spread, and a climbing rope. All of these ensure you have better traction when the snow is slippery. 

Ensure Your Preparation is the Best 

The Pangarchulla Trek is no walk in the park! No doubt, the scenery is stunning and breathtaking. However, the trek is demanding and challenging. So, you need your stamina. The endurance here is at different levels, so you need to ensure you work on your physical endurance. Reaching the summit is especially challenging, so you need to up your fitness game. That means, three months before the trek, you start gymming—cardio plus strength training. Or you can also go for a walk or jog. Also, start going on small hikes to prepare for this trek. Lastly, focus on eating right because nutrition is important. 

Know about AMS 

AMS, or altered mental status, is common on high-altitude treks like the Pangarchulla Trek. When the air pressure drops, AMS can happen. Thus, you should know about the symptoms, and if you experience the same, ensure you tell your trek guide immediately, as they can help you because they know how to handle such situations. 

Be Careful with Your Skin. 

Since treks in Uttarakhand mean exposure to thin air, it means the UV rays will be harsher.Use sunscreen generously and ensure you reapply it after every two hours. Also, wear sunglasses and hats to protect your eyes and head.

Choose the Best Travel Agency 

Your choice of travel agency will also ensure whether your trek is successful or not. You want to go with a company that has verified experts or guides. Who informs you about what to expect on the trek and is transparent about everything.

Frequently Asked Questions

What peaks can you view from the Pangarchulla Trek? 

Here are all the peaks you can view from the Pangarchulla Trek: 

  • Nanda Devi, the highest mountain peak in India and also the 23rd highest peak overall, is a twin-peaked group. Both peaks are visible from the Pangarchulla Trek. 
  • Chaukhamba I, II, III, and IV are a group of mountains with four distinct peaks, which you can see from here. 
  • Dronagiri, a group of massive peaks in the Garhwal Himalaya, consists of many prominent peaks, with Dronagiri East being the highest. 
  • Neelkanth, the Garhwal Queen, is also visible from the Pangarchulla Trek.

Do you need a permit for the Pangarchulla Trek?

Yes, you need a permit for trekking in the Garhwal Himalayas from the forest department. Also, if there are any other rules and regulations, you will have to follow them too.

How to reach the trek’s starting point?

The trek starts from Joshimath town in Uttarakhand. You can get here from any major Uttrakhand city via road. 

What attractions are near the trek that I can explore?

  • Joshimath: It is the base for many treks, including the Pangarchulla trek, with many temples, making it a famous pilgrimage site.
  • Auli is a renowned ski destination that offers panoramic and stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. From Joshimath, you can take a cable car to Auli.
  • Bhavishya Badri Temple: It honors Lord Vishnu and is a must-visit place for all.
  • Nanda Devi National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a necessary place for all nature enthusiasts. 
  • Chenab Lake: a glacial lake with a high altitude and picturesque meadows offering a serene environment.