Tag: Kankata Pass

Kankata Pass in Sunderdhunga Valley – A Hidden Gem in Kumaon Himalaya

The Kankata Pass, located deep inside the Sunderdhunga Valley of Kumaon Himalaya (Uttarakhand), is one of the most adventurous and scenic trekking destinations in the Bageshwar region. Sitting at an altitude of about 4,500 meters (14,764 feet), this high mountain pass offers breathtaking panoramas of peaks such as Maiktoli (6,803 m), Panwali Dwar (6,663 m), Baljuri (6,220 m), and Tharkot (6,100 m).

The name Kankata means “crow’s beak,” inspired by a sharp rock formation near the pass. This unique landmark makes it both a challenging and fascinating goal for trekkers exploring the Sunderdhunga region.

Sunderdhunga Valley – The Approach to Kankata Pass

The word Sunderdhunga literally means “valley of beautiful stones.” The valley lies to the west of the Pindari and Kafni Glaciers and is often considered the most beautiful of the three because of its varied landscapes, sparkling streams, alpine meadows, and towering peaks.

The nearest road head for this trek is Dau village, which is connected by road from Bageshwar. From Dau, the trail winds through dense forests and riversides before reaching Jaitoli, the last inhabited village on the route. Beyond Jaitoli, civilization gives way to pure wilderness as the path enters high-altitude meadows and rugged terrain leading towards the pristine Sunderdhunga Valley and the adventurous Kankata Pass.

Why Kankata Pass is Worth Exploring

  • Offbeat Adventure – Unlike popular treks, very few make it to Kankata Pass, keeping the trail peaceful and untouched.

  • Magnificent Himalayan Views – On a clear day, snow-clad peaks rise dramatically against the blue sky, making every step rewarding.

  • Cultural Encounters – Before the wilderness takes over, the trek introduces you to warm Kumaoni hospitality in Dau and Jaitoli.

  • Gateway to High Peaks – Kankata Pass connects Sunderdhunga Valley with routes towards Maiktoli, Panwali Dwar, and Baljuri, making it ideal for seasoned trekkers.

Best Season to Visit

The most suitable time for trekking in Sunderdhunga Valley and attempting Kankata Pass is during May–June and September–October.

  • In summer, the valley bursts with greenery, wildflowers, and flowing streams.

  • In autumn, the skies are crisp and clear, offering panoramic mountain views.

  • Winters make the pass inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, while the monsoon months bring rain and landslide risks.

Difficulty Level

The Kankata Pass trek is graded as moderate to difficult. Trekkers face steep ascents, rocky moraines, and high-altitude camping. It requires good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience in the Himalayas.

How to Reach Sunderdhunga Valley

  • Nearest Road Head: Dau village, accessible by road from Bageshwar.

  • Rail Connectivity: Nearest station is Kathgodam (200 km from Bageshwar).

  • Air Connectivity: Pantnagar Airport is the closest, around 230 km from Bageshwar.

  • From Dau, the trek continues on foot towards Jaitoli and further into the Sunderdhunga Valley.