Available Batches
Brief Description
The Panpatia Col trek is one of the most challenging and demanding treks in the Garhwal Himalayas connecting the holy pilgrimage sites of Kedarnath and Badrinath. This high altitude pass at a staggering altitude of 5260M / 17260 ft, lies between two unnamed peaks of 5500M+ in height. Being one of the least traversed passes in the Indian Himalayas, the Panpatia Col trek is meant only for experienced trekkers and aspiring mountaineers who have prior trekking experience and knowledge of using ice axes, crampons and roping up procedures. It demands a very high fitness level, thus one needs to have good physical and mental endurance. The trail takes you through massive glaciers, crevassed snowfields, rocky moraines, and the never-ending 7km long Panpatia snowfield which is a treat for aspirational trekkers looking to tick this epic trek off their bucket list. The Panpatia Col Trek gives you unparalleled views of prominent peaks such as Nilkantha, Balakun, Hathi Parvat, and Dhauliganga Peaks.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Show complete Itinerary
Dehradun to Joshimath - 300 km Drive
Report at Dehradun early morning by 7 AM. Drive from Dehradun to Joshimath. Overnight stay in guesthouse.
Joshimath to Alaknanda Camp (8,530 ft) via Khirao - 3 km
We drive from Joshimath to Hanuman Chatti and cross a suspension bridge over the Alaknanda river from Khirao on the road from Joshimath to Badrinath. Above the confluence of the Khirao Ganga and Alaknanda, we camp at a clearing after a short walk. Have dinner and retire for the night. Overnight stay in tents.
Alaknanda Camp to Shepherd Camp (11,745 ft) - 7 km
Today we make our way to the Khirao village after a gradual ascent from the campsite. In summer most of the villagers from Khirao are occupied with their terraced farms or move to higher meadows. After a steep climb from the village to the treeline followed by negotiating your way on the grassy slopes we reach our campsite for the night. Have dinner and retire for the night. Overnight stay in tents.
Shepherd Camp to Snout Camp (12,860 ft) - 4 km
From Shepherd's camp a short walk takes you to the snout of the Panpatia glacier. The snout is an easy 10-minute walk away from the campsite. We set up tents at the Snout camp and retire for the night.
Snout Camp to Moraine Camp (14,107 ft) - 4 km
Todays' trek involves a long uphill walk on a never-ending moraine which might seem to be a bit monotonous but it’s a joy to weave across patches of snow to ease progress and add variety to the walk. Blessed with unbelievable views of prominent peaks like Neelkanth and Parvati which loom large on one side and a heavily crevassed glacier drops almost vertically to the other. Here you can catch your first glimpse of Chaukhamba. We set up our tents at the moraine camp for the night and have dinner. Overnight stay in tents.
Moraine Camp to Parvati Gully Base Camp (15,091 ft) - 4 km
Today we trek from the moraine camp to the base of Parvati Col. which involves a short but steep walk eventually bringing you closer to the Panpatia snowfield. We camp just below the Parvati Col. Have dinner and retire for the night. Overnight stay in tents.
Parvati Gully Base Camp to Panpatia Snowfield Camp (17,125 ft) via Parvati Col (16,732 ft) - 6 km
Today's trek involves a steep climb which brings you to the edge of the terrace from where the only way forward is through steep snow and rock gully. We will fix ropes to negotiate this passage and enter the domain of pure snow. The way to the Parvati Col and the Panpatia snowfield which is a huge plateau of snow surrounded by lofty peaks takes you through a series of gentle humps. Chaukhamba rises in all its glory and, with some luck, you may also catch a view of Nanda Devi. After crossing the Parvati Col you reach the massive yet glorious Panpatia snowfield where we set up the campsite for the night. Have dinner and retire early. Overnight stay in tents.
Panpatia Snowfield Camp to Sujal Sarovar (15,551 ft) via Panpatia Col (17,257 ft) - 9 km
Today's trek will take you across the massive length of the Panpatia snowfield. It is a long traverse but with a negligible ascent. After a short climb, you reach the majestic Panpatia Col offering impeccable views of the towering mountains, glaciers and humongous snowfields stretching far and beyond. Following the Panpatia Col there is a vertigo-inducing descent that leads to Sujal Sarovar, which is our next campsite. We set up tents for our overnight stay near Sujal Sarovar. Have dinner and retire for the night.
Sujal Sarovar to Kachni (13,648 ft) - 7 km
Today we trek to Kanchni Tal. A few metres above Sujal Sarovar, a small pass followed by a steep descent through snowy slopes and boulder zones takes you to Kanchni. The meadow overlooks the Madhmaheshwar Ganga. This is our campsite. Have dinner and retire for the night. Overnight stay in tents.
Kachni to Nanu Chatti (10.695 ft) - 5 km
Today we trek to Nanu Chatti. It takes about 3-4 hours to get to Madhmaheshwar temple beyond oak forests from where a paved trail follows all the way to the road head at Ransi. It’s a fairly easy walk through a forest to camp at Nanu Chatti, a small settlement of summer homes for people from Gaundhar village. Overnight stay in tents.
Nanu Chatti to Ransi (6,397 ft) - 12 km
Walk to Ransi on the Madhmaheshwar Temple trail, and drive onward to Rudraprayag.
Reserve Day
This day will be used in case of bad weather or other delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pick your question
Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?
June and September are the best months to do the Panpatia Col Trek.
Packing List: What to pack
Click here for text packing list.
Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?
The base for the trek is Badrinath. To reach Badrinath
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport from Badrinath, at the distance of 311 kilometers. The airport has flights connecting to Delhi, Lucknow and Mumbai. You can opt to hire a taxi from the railway station or can board a bus from nearest bus station to reach Badrinath.
By Rail: Nearest railway station from Badrinath is Haridwar Railway Station, at the distance of 318 Kilometers. This railway station is a broad-gauged station is connected to other major railway stations of the country. From Haridwar, you can board a bus or hire a private taxi.
By Road: Intrastate and interstate buses run in Badrinath, making it easily connected to different towns and states like Rishikesh, Haridwar, Srinagar, Dehradun, Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh and others. These buses have affordable fares and are the best options to cover great distances. You can also hire private taxis.
Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?
There is coverage for all major networks till Badrinath. You will get mobile connection after that only once the trek ends.
Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?
Badrinath Temple: The Badrinath temple is the main attraction in the town. According to legend Shankar discovered a black stone image of Lord Badrinarayan made of Saligram stone in the Alaknanda River. He originally enshrined it in a cave near the Tapt Kund hot springs. In the sixteenth century, the King of Garhwal moved the murti to the present temple. The temple is approximately 50 ft (15 m) tall with a small cupola on top, covered with a gold gilt roof. The facade is built of stone, with arched windows. A broad stairway leads up to a tall arched gateway, which is the main entrance. The architecture resembles a Buddhist vihara (temple), with the brightly painted facade also more typical of Buddhist temples. Just inside is the mandapa, a large pillared hall that leads to the garbha grha, or main shrine area. The walls and pillars of the mandapa are covered with intricate carvings.
Kedarnath Temple: The Kedarnath Temple on the Garhwal Himalayan range near the Mandakini river is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India and the holiest Hindu shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple is also one of the four major sites in India’s Chota Char Dham pilgrimage of Northern Himalayas.
Madhyamaheshwar Temple: The Madhyamaheshwar Temple is an integral part of the legend of Panch Kedar and is the fourth temple to be visited in the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit. The temple is situated in a picturesque green valley surrounded by snow peaks of Chaukhamba and gives a spectacular view of the Himalayan mountains.
Eligibility: Is this trek good for me?
Panpatia Col is made only for experienced trekkers who want to test their limits. The challenges faced in the trek should not be underestimated. You should attempt this trek only If you have already done a trek that climbs to 4700-5000 metres. It is recommended not to opt this trek if you cannot get acclimatized in high altitudes. Besides you need to have a strong physical endurance to complete this trek. For details on trek difficulty level, please read on Bikat Rating Scale
Eligibility: Experience required
A basic mountaineering course is recommended though not mandatory in case of highly experienced & skilled trekkers. At least 2-3 challenging treks along with 20 – 25 total trekking days in the Himalayas. Medical fitness certificate from CMO of a recognized hospital.
Eligibility: Fitness benchmark
Jog/Run for 5 Kms in 25-30 mins Or Walk continuously for 10 kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better) and
Hold your breath for 40 seconds and
3 sets of Climbing 30 – 40 steps in one stretch and
Push Ups – 10 and
Lunges & Squats – 15 X 2 sets
If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.
Eligibility: Requisite skills
How to use an Ice Axe
How to use Climbing boots & Crampons
How to rope up & follow queued climbing/descending
How to self-arrest using an ice axe
Knowledge of Basic First aid
About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?
Panpatia Col Trek
Considered as one of the toughest and the least crossed passes of Uttarakhand, the Panpatia Col trek bridges the pilgrimage sites of Badrinath and Kedarnath. The trek is meant for experienced trekkers only as it involves a great stamina and endurance. The trail hosts crevassed glaciers, endless moraines and snow fields, steep ascents and descents.Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
Accommodation: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?
In Joshimath you will be accommodated in hotel/guest house. The rooms will be provided on twin/triple sharing basis. You will receive the details of your accommodation through email a few days prior to the trek. On trekking days, all the trekkers will be accommodated in twin or triple sharing tents. Along with this, there will also be a toilet tent and a dining tent installed at every campsite as we roll.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?
We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accommodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.
Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek. These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.
Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?
You will be provided with good quality of gaiters and microspikes from us depending upon the situation of the snow. Our trek leaders will also be carrying ropes and ice axe.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfill the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on the journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.
Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?
You can rent the following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack.
Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?
The temperatures vary from 20 degree celcius to 5 degree celcius during the months of June and September.
Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?
Yes, there will be snow on the trek.
Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?
If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.
Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?
A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.
Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?
Yes, the trekking pole is necessary. If you don’t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.
Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?
Yes, there are stores/shops in Joshimath from where you can buy necessary stuff. Though it is recommended that you come prepared with all the stuff. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.
Miscellaneous : Is it safe for solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?
Yes, it is absolutely safe for a solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing a tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.
Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.
Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?
You will be picked up from Dehradun ISBT by 7am and drive to Joshimath. Drop off location remains the same.
Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?
Expect to reach Dehradun by night.
Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?
Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?
Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the expedition?
ID Proof (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried), Medical Certificate (Soft Copy to be sent to us & original to be carried) and Photocopy of ID Proof and passport size photos are the mandatory documents required for the trek.
Why Bikat
Why Bikat
Learning Experience
- We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
- We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
- To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
- These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.
Loyality Programs
Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.
- Currently we have three levels:
- Basic Membership
- Summiteer Membership
- Leader Membership
Personalized Attention
- Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
- Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
- On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.
Best Expedition Leaders
- Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
- Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.
Eco-friendly Practices
- Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
- Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
- We follow a rolling campsite model.
- We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.
Safety
For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.
- To ensure this:
- Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
- The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
- Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
- Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.
Reviews
What's Included
Whats Included
- Food as per menu on the trek
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges, if any (upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- Tents, Sleeping bags, Sleeping mats
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Trek guide, cook, helpers, and porters for carrying common supplies
- Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with Wilderness Emergency Responder & Rescue. course from NIM Uttarkashi
Whats Not Included?
- Portage of personal bags during the trek
- Cost of any kind of Travel Insurance.
- Any Expense of personal nature.
- Any Expense not specified in the inclusions list.
- Meals during road journeys
Cancellation Policy
Cash Refund
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date
5% Deduction
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure
50%
deduction
Less than 15 days of departure
No Cash Refund
Voucher Refund
Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date
No Deduction
Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure
No Refund
Please note
- Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
- This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.
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