Trek Duration

12 Days

Max Altitude

19,568 ft

Distance

123 km

Level

DIFFICULT

Region

Garhwal Himalayas

Best Time

May, June, September

Itinerary

How To Reach Base Camp?

To reach the base camp at Gangotri, one can take a flight to Dehradun followed by a road journey to Gangotri. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, from where buses and taxis are available to Gangotri.

  • Day 1: Arrival in Gangotri

    Arrive in Gangotri, the starting point of the trek | N/A | 10,000 ft

  • Day 2: Trek to Bhoj Kharak

    Begin the trek to Bhoj Kharak campsite | 6 hours | 12,500 ft

  • Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Bhoj Kharak

    Rest and acclimatize at Bhoj Kharak | N/A | 12,500 ft

  • Day 4: Trek to Nandanvan Camp

    Move towards Nandanvan campsite | 7 hours | 14,500 ft

  • Day 5: Trek to Vasu Ki Tal

    Ascend to Vasu Ki Tal campsite | 5 hours | 16,000 ft

  • Day 6: Trek to Kalindi Khal Base

    Reach the base of Kalindi Khal pass | 5 hours | 17,500 ft

  • Day 7: Cross Kalindi Khal Pass

    Cross the challenging Kalindi Khal pass | 8 hours | 19,568 ft

  • Day 8: Trek to Raj Parav

    Descend to Raj Parav campsite | 6 hours | 17,000 ft

  • Day 9: Trek to Arwatal

    Trek towards Arwatal campsite | 7 hours | 14,000 ft

  • Day 10: Trek to Ghastoli

    Proceed to Ghastoli campsite | 6 hours | 12,000 ft

  • Day 11: Drive to Gangotri

    Drive back to Gangotri | N/A | 10,000 ft

  • Day 12: Departure from Gangotri

    End of the trek and departure from Gangotri | N/A | 10,000 ft

Packing checklist

Backpack

  • Properly sized and fitted backpack

  • Waterproof bag cover

  • Lightweight, packable daypack (for side trips)

Trekking Essentials

  • Trekking poles

  • Ziplock bags (for organizing and protecting gear)

  • Headlamp or flashlight

  • Extra batteries

Shelter and Sleeping

  • Lightweight tent or tarp

  • Sleeping bag (rated for expected temperatures)

  • Sleeping pad

  • Tent footprint or groundsheet

Clothing

  • Moisture-wicking/Quick Dry/Polyester base layers

  • Fleece or down jacket for insulation, since the weather can vary check the forecast for temperature lows to decide

  • Waterproof and windproof outer layers

  • Moisture-wicking socks

  • Extra pairs of socks and underwear

  • Hat and gloves (if applicable)

  • Sun hat or cap

  • balaclava

Footwear

  • Sturdy trekking boots with good grip and ankle support

  • Camp shoes or sandals (optional)

Navigation Tools

  • Detailed map

  • Compass

  • GPS device or smartphone with trekking app

  • Extra batteries or power bank

Safety and First Aid

  • First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, personal medications)

  • Emergency communication device (whistle, personal locator beacon)

  • Multi-tool or knife

Food and Nutrition

  • Trail mix

  • Energy bars

  • Dehydrated meals

  • Small camping stove

  • Fuel for stove

  • Lightweight cooking pot

  • Utensils (spork, knife, etc.)

  • Lightweight mug or cup

Hydration

  • Durable water bottle or hydration bladder

  • Water purification tablets or portable filter

  • Electrolyte for hydration

Personal Hygiene

  • Biodegradable soap

  • Small towel

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Toilet paper

  • Trowel (for digging cat holes)

Weather Protection

  • Lightweight rain jacket or poncho

  • Rain pants

  • Sunscreen

  • Sunglasses

  • Lip balm with SPF

Frequently asked questions

The best time is during the months of May, June, and September when the weather is favorable.

Yes, Kalindi Khal Trek is a challenging trek recommended for experienced trekkers.

The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 19568 feet at the Kalindi Khal pass.

There are basic medical services available at some campsite but carrying a first-aid kit is recommended.

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