Sunderdhunga Valley Trek : A Journey Into the Beautiful Valley Of Stones
Sunderdhunga Valley is located at an altitude of 3900+ meters in Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand. This valley is not a glacier, but is a group of some glaciers which mainly include Maiktoli, Sukhram, Devi Kund, Kankata Pass, Nag Kund, etc. This trek is one of the few hard treks in the country.
Kathalia acts as the focal point for this valley, ahead of it on one side comes Maiktoli Glacier and Sukhram Cave, while on the other side the road takes you towards Devi Kund, Nag Kund, Kankata Pass. The front view of Panwali Gate from Baluni Top is really charming.
Sunderdhunga Valley Trek Itinerary –
For the trip to Sundarhunga Valley, you can plan a few more days, so that you can explore this valley completely, if you are short of time then you can plan a trip to Baluni Top. The itinerary given below covers the entire valley, but you can change the plan as per your convenience.
- Day 1 – Kathgodam To Jaikuni/Khati Village Drive
- Day 2 – Jaikuni To Jaitoli Village Trek 7 Km
- Day 3 – Jaitoli Village To Kathliya 10 Km Trek
- Day 4 – Kathaliya To Maiktoli Glacier Base Camp Then Back To Kathaliya
- Day 5 – Khathaliya To Baluni Top
- Day 6 – Baluni Top To Devi Kund Then Back To Baluni Top
- Day 7 – Baluni Top To Kankata Pass Then Back To Baluni Top
- Day 8 – Baluni Top To Jaitoli Village
- Day 9 – Jaitoli Village to Jaikuni
- Day 10- Jaikuni To Kathgodam
Sunderdhunga Valley Trek Dificulty
The Sunderdhunga Valley trek offers a moderate to dificult level of difficulty, suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers. However, there are certain challenges to be aware of:
- Altitude: As you ascend through the valley, you’ll gradually reach higher altitudes. This can lead to altitude-related challenges such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and headaches. It’s essential to acclimatize properly and stay hydrated to mitigate these effects.
- Terrain: The trail consists of varying terrain, including steep ascents, rocky paths, and narrow ridges. Trekking poles can be helpful for stability, especially on uneven terrain.
- Weather: Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature, rain, or snowfall. Be prepared for all types of weather and ensure you have appropriate clothing and gear.
- Remote Location: The Sunderdhunga Valley is relatively remote, with limited access to facilities and medical assistance. It’s essential to carry a first-aid kit and be self-sufficient during the trek.
- Physical Fitness: While the trek is manageable for most fitness levels, it does require a reasonable level of physical fitness. Regular exercise and endurance training beforehand can help prepare you for the trekking challenges.
By being adequately prepared, staying vigilant, and pacing yourself, you can overcome these challenges and fully enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Sunderdhunga Valley.
How To Reach Sunderdhunga Valley Trek
To reach the Sunderdhunga Valley, you have several options:
- By Air: Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport to the Sunderdhunga Valley. From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kathgodam, which is the nearest major town.
- By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station is the last railway head near the Sunderdhunga Valley. Several trains connect Kathgodam to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow. From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bageshwar.
- By Road: Bageshwar is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand. There are regular bus services available from Kathgodam to Bageshwar. From Bageshwar, you need to follow the route to Jaikuni/Khati, passing through Bharadi/Kapkot, Karmi, and Khariya.
Once you reach Jaikuni or Khati, you can start your trek into the Sunderdhunga Valley. It’s advisable to arrange for a local guide or porter at Jaikuni/Khati to assist you with the trekking route and logistics.
In summary, the Sunderdhunga Valley trek offers a captivating journey into the heart of the Himalayas, brimming with stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. While the trek presents challenges, the breathtaking views and cherished memories make it all worthwhile. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, the Sunderdhunga Valley promises an unforgettable experience. So, embrace the magic of the mountains and embark on this unforgettable journey.
