Mt. Bhagirathi 2
Uttarakhand • 20 Days
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Brief Description
Mt. Bhagirathi 2 (21,365 FT) is the second highest peak of the Bhagirathi Massif located in the Gangotri range of mountains in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The peak rises to a height of 6512M right above the Gangotri glacier and the river Bhagirathi which later forms Ganga emerging from Gaumukh. Mt. Bhagirathi 2 is the most popular among its sister peaks of Bhagirathi 1 (6856M) and Bhagirathi 3 (6454M) owing to its less technical approach to climbing. Gifted with mesmerizing views of the famed peaks of Thalaysagar, Shivling and Meru, the Bhagirathi 2 peak climb is not for the faint hearted. Significant prior trekking experience along with previous mountaineering experience of 6000M+ peaks is a must to undertake this challenging yet glorious expedition. Meant only for experienced trekkers aspiring to climb 7000M+ peaks in the future, the Bhagirathi 2 expedition will require the use of ropes, crampons and ice axes. The summit gives you unimaginable views of the entire Gangotri region and trekkers from all over the world undertake this expedition to fulfill their dreams of conquering one of the most beautiful peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas. June and September are the best months to do this expedition. Stay on this page for more information on Mt. Bhagirathi 2 Expedition.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Show complete Itinerary
Arrive in Gangotri
The only way to reach Gangotri is by road. One can start the road journey either from Dehradun but with a new route open now, reaching Gangotri via Dehradun is the faster option (around 242 Kms). Arrive at Gangotri by 3 PM. You will receive the detail of accommodation in Gangotri through an email from us. After reaching here, check into the Guest House/Hotel. Have some rest. Evening can be utilized to explore the local market, temples, etc.
Acclimatization in Gangotri
Spend the day exploring the holy town of Gangotri. Visit Surya Kund and spend time by the banks of Bhagirathi river in the evening.
Gangotri to Bhojwasa (12,440 FT) via Chirwasa (11,811 FT). 14 kms trek.
We start in the morning, after breakfast to trek towards Chirbasa (3600mt). From Gangotri, you may move along the beaten track towards Chirbasa, which is on the tree line. The entire trek till Chirbasa is along the roaring Bhagirathi River. We can have our pack lunch in Chirbasa. From Chirbasa, we trek further to Bhojwassa today. The trek is going to be moderate for the day. The terrain, after Chirbasa, becomes really desolate and barren. In fact, it has been referred to as Arctic Tundra by many trekkers. The entire trail passes through a dense forest till Bhojwassa. There is a small temple and a potential campsite near the river. A good place to camp for the day. Excellent sunset on Bhagirathi group of peaks to delight you in the evening.
Bhojwasa (12,440 FT) to Nandanvan/Base Camp (14,240 FT) via Gaumukh (12,770 FT) and Tapovan (14,642 FT)
On this day we head to Nandanvan, the base camp of Mt. Bhagirathi 2 via Gomukh glacier. Cutting across the glacier and moraines of Gangotri you reach the massive alpine meadow of Nandanvan. We set up camp and acclimatize. Study the route and weather condition and plan the expedition days ahead. Begin the briefing and safety techniques. Rest well. Have dinner and retire for the night. Overnight in tents.
Nandanvan/Base Camp (14,240 FT) to Advanced Base Camp (ABC) (15,748 FT) and back to Base Camp
Load ferry to the Advance Base Camp and return to base camp.
Base Camp to Advanced Base Camp (15,748 FT)
Today we will depart Base Camp and setup up ABC (15,748 FT) for the following day. Let your body acclimatize properly. Have dinner and retire for the night.
ABC to Camp 1 (17,060 FT) and back to ABC
Today we will load the ferry to Camp 1 and return to ABC.
ABC to Camp 1 (17,060 FT)
Today we leave the ABC and make our way to Camp 1 where we will camp for the night.
Camp 1 (17,060 FT) to Camp 2 and back to Camp 1
Today we will load the ferry to Camp 2 and return to Camp 1.
Camp 1 to Camp 2
Today we will climb to Camp 2, where we will rest and prepare the camp for the rest of the day. Overnight Stay at Camp 2.
Camp 2 to Summit Camp (19,685 FT) and back to Camp 2
Today we will load the ferry to Summit Camp and return to Camp 2.
Camp 2 to Summit Camp (19,685 FT)
Today we move to Summit Camp and set up the camp for the night here. We will also move ahead for about 300-400m to fix ropes for the next day. Summit will be attempted the next day.
Summit Camp (19,685 FT) to Summit (21,365 FT) and back to Camp 1
Today is our summit day to Bhagirathi 2. The summit push starts as early as 2AM. Upon on reaching the summit you will be gidted with epic views of the surrounding peaks and ranges. Cherish the moment and make your way to Camp 1. Overnight in Camp 1.
Camp 1 to Nandanvan/Base Camp
Today we make our way down from Camp 1 to the base camp, Nandanvan. Rest well. Have dinner and retire for the night.
Rest day at Base Camp
Rest for the day and prepare for your journey back.
Base Camp to Bhojwasa
We retrace our steps and reach Bhojwasa. Have dinner and retire for the night,
Bhojwasa to Gangotri
Descend your way down to Gangotri. The Bhagirathi peaks will disappear from your sight as you bid goodbye to them.
Gangotri to Dehradun
Depart from Gangotri and drive to Dehradun ISBT.
Reserve Day
This day will be used if the summit attempt on the previous day was unsuccessful due to bad weather.
Reserve Day
This day will be used if the summit attempt on the previous day was unsuccessful due to bad weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pick your question
Eligibility: Is this trek good for me?
In accordance with the rules and regulation set forth by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) for mountaineering expeditions, out of 12 seats per batch:
- 6 seats are reserved for aspirants with a certificate in Advanced Mountaineering Course (AMC)
- 4 seats are reserved for aspirants with a certificate in Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC)
- The remaining 2 seats are reserved for aspirants with previous trekking experience of expeditions above 5500 - 6000 meters
Foreign Nationals - Due to a specific set of guidelines for Foreign Nationals it is recommended to call our support team to gain information on the list of documents and procedure involved in booking a mountaineering expedition with us.
Mt. Bhagirathi 2 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 treks that climb 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
Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?
The best months to undertake the Mt. Bhagirathi 2 Expedition is June and September.
Packing List: What to pack
Click here for packing list.
Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?
Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?
Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?
The base for Mt. Bhagirathi 2 expedition is Gangotri, around 500 km from Delhi.
Reach Gangotri By Air:
At a distance of around 226 km from Gangotri is located the closest airport named Jolly Grant Airport. Situated in Dehradun, the airport has regular flights from India's capital city of Delhi. So, you can catch a flight to the airport and then you can hire a cab from there to reach the sacred town of Gangotri. Taxi or cab charges will cost you around Rs 4,000.
Reach Gangotri By Train:
If you like traveling by train, you'll need to reach the Rishikesh railway station which is also the closest at 250 km from Gangotri. After arriving at the railway station, you'll see plenty of cabs ready to take you to your destination. You'll need to pay anywhere between Rs 3,000 and Rs 4,000 as cab charges.
Reach Gangotri By Road:
The holy town of Gangotri is also well connected by road with all the popular tourist places in the state of Uttarakhand and outside the state. From places like Yamunotri, Mussoorie, and Tehri, you can easily catch tourist buses to reach Gangotri. There are both private deluxe buses and state buses to reach the town.
Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?
Gangotri has coverage for all major networks.
Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?
Gangotri Temple: Gangotri, the origin of the River Ganges and seat of the goddess Ganga, is one of the four sites in the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. The original Gangotri Temple was built by the Nepalese general Amar Singh Thapa. The river is called Bhagirathi at the source and acquires the name Ganga (the Ganges) from Devprayag onwards where it meets the Alaknanda.
Places to visit near the Gangotri Temple
Bhagirath Shila is believed to be the holy rock where King Bhagirath prayed to Lord Shiva.
Pandava Gufa, located 1.5 km from Gangotri, is the place where the Pandavas are believed to have meditated and rested en route Kailash. Pilgrims will have to trek up to the Pandava Gufa.
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 type: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?
You will stay at a hotel/guesthouse in Gangotri on a triple or twin sharing basis. On trekking days you will be accommodated in tents on a twin sharing basis.
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?
Since this is a technical climb at extremely high altitudes on snow and ice, all required technical equipment such as Ropes, Helmet, Ice Axe, Crampons, Mountaineering Boots, Jumar, Descender, Harness will be provided. You can refer to the inclusions section for more details.
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?
You can expect temperatures to drop to as low as -10°C to -20°C at higher camps on the climb. The more altitude we gain the colder it gets. However, the weather is always unpredictable so be prepared with all the essential layers required to keep yourself warm and dry.
Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?
Since this is a technical climb at 6500 M, you can expect snow and ice on the expedition.
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 to 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 participants will be led by an IMF certified mountaineering 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 a 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have 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 Gangotri 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?
The pick-up point will be Dehradun ISBT. The drop off point is the same.
Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?
Expect to reach Dehradun by late evening, so please plan your further travels accordingly.
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.
About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?
Mt. Bhagirathi 2 Expedition
Being the second highest in the Bhagirathi Massif, Mt. Bhagirathi 2 is one of the best peaks to summit in the Gangotri range of Garhwal Himalayas. Being technical yet less challenging, Mt. Bhagirathi 2 is meant for experienced and aspiring mountaineers with prior mountaineering experience. The trail takes you through the renowned Gangotri trail with excellent views of famous peaks like Thalay Sagar, Meru, Shivling and several other 6000M+ peaks. Challenge yourself with this expedition and push your limits.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 (upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- 4 season Dome Tents, Thermal rated Sleeping bags, Sleeping mats
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Expedition guide, cook, helpers, HAP and LAP for carrying common supplies
- Course certified & experienced Expedition Leader with Wilderness Emergency Responder & Rescue. course from NIM Uttarkashi
- Technical Equipment - PP Ropes, Helmet, Ice Axe, Crampons, Mountaineering Boots, Snow Stake, Dead Man/Boy
- Peak Booking Fee Charges (upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
Whats Not Included?
- Portage of personal bags during the expedition
- Meals during road journeys from Dehradun to Gangotri
- Meals during hotel stay in Gangotri
- Cost of any kind of Travel Insurance.
- IMF Peak Booking Fee for foreign nationals US$ 700 for a team of two members and US$ 325 for every additional participants
- Forest Permit / Camping Fee for foreign nationals (USD 880-1000 upto group of 10)
- Mandatory Liaison Officer Fee for foreign expeditions ( ~USD 500 for group of 10)
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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