Moderate
6-7 Days
3,660 m (12,007 ft)
12
52 Km
Khati | Uttarakhand
Apr-Jun & Sep-Nov
Kathgodam
The Pindari Glacier Trek is one of the most picturesque treks in the Kumaon hills of the Indian Himalayas, as the trek passes through deodar forests, river side plains, and meadows, before reaching the massive icefall of Pindari Glaciere at an altitude of 3,660 meters. Regarded as the “Soul of Kumaon Trek”, this route is best known for its unique combination of natural beauty, ancient folklore, and Himalayan culture as none of the other trek options comes close to offer-ing this blend.
Beginning from peaceful village of Khati, the trek trails the path of Pindari River which has its source in the glacier. On the road, you'll stop in adorable villages including Dwali and Phurkia, both of which have stunning views of Maiktoli, Nanda Khat, Panwali Dwar and the sacred Nanda Devi peaks. It’s a rare mix of easy and hard that works well for people who want to have a genuine Himalayan trek experience without it being so grueling.
What truly distinguishes the trek to Pindari Glacier is its diverse terrain. From oak and rhododendron forests filled with birdcalls to alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, every bend has something to bring out your camera. — shepherds shouting to their flocks, torrents of glacial rivers, soft puffs of mist rising against snow-mantled peaks — is both humbling and comforting.
For centuries has this path been cherished by locals as well as foreign pilgrims. The glacier is said to be the residence of Lord Shiva and the whole Pindari valley is filled with spirituality. It’s really not a trek — it’s a march through time, culture and celestial landscapes.
The trail is well-signposted, so it is good for novice and experienced trekkers alike. Yet, it is still raw enough to be truly Himalayan — isolated, pristine, and mesmerizing. With REwild India, you don’t merely trek; you engage with narratives, sustainability, and self-exploration.
Whether it’s seclusion you seek, scenic photography, or simply a pleasure walk through pristine Himalayan trails, the Pindari Glacier Trek ensures memories of a lifetime.
When to do the Pindari Glacier Trek is really dependent on what kind of experience you want in the Himalayas. The trail is accessible throughout the year except in the peak winter snowfall, but it is during these two trekking seasons — spring–summer (April to June) and autumn (September to early November) — that you will find best and most predictable weather.
When spring arrives, so does life to the Pindari Valley. Forests turn scarlets with blooming rhododendrons, the grasslands glow green and the skies are blue for most of the time. This is the best time to visit the Kumaon Himalayas if you want to see the rich flora and fauna of the mountains in full swing.
The postmonsoon season is another magical time to trek to the Pindari Glacier. Post rains the scenery turns into a painter’s canvas — lush green valleys, snow frosted mountain peaks and crystal clear skies as far as the eyes meets. Photographers and experienced hikers especially prefer Autumn.
Heavy rainfall occurs during the monsoon (July–August), making trails slippery with constant landslides. Snow blankets the higher reaches near Phurkia and Zero Point from December to March, obstructing access to the glacier.
For scenic splendor, ease and comfort, May–June and mid-September–October are the top choices.
There are treks that tear at your physical being, and then there are treks that touch your soul — the Pindari Glacier Trek is one of those. It’s not simply about travelling across mountain ranges, it’s about learning how to live in the most raw form.
While many high-altitude adventures involve technical climbing or extreme acclimatization, the Pindari Glacier trek path provides a moderate trek. As well-marked paths with gentle inclines leading to friendly villages, it’s a perfect hiking for novices as well as seasoned trekkers.
At 3,660 metres, the elevation of Pindari Glacier gives the grandeur of the Kumaon Himalayas a bird’s eye view. At Zero Point, you are confronting an ice world — blue crevasses, gleaming snowfields, and the powerful Pindari River emerging from its center.
Trek to Pindari Glacier is not just a glimpse of the scenery; it is also a glimpse of the mountain lifestyle. You travel through ancient villages like Khati and Dwali, where austerity is the order of the day. The local people welcome you with true smiles.
From alpine meadows to snow-capped peaks glowing pink with the first light of dawn, the pindari trail is a dream for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Each season has its own hue in the valley: spring adds colours and autumn introduces contrast and clarity.
At its heart, Pindari Glacier Trek is a travel within. Long forest walks and wide, empty horizons, and moments alone beneath star-filled skies, they ground you. With every step you drop noise and bustle and the burden of routine.
Pindari Glacier Trek is a moderate level trek in the Indian Himalayas. The trek is perfect for beginners who want to experience their first high altitude trek and experienced walkers looking for an invigorating journey across the untouched valleys of Uttarakhand.
The Pindari Glacier trek distance is about 52 to 60 kilometers and the route begins at Khati Village and ends at the Zero Point. The trail is very well-defined and safe to travel but hikers should prepare themselves for rugged terrain, possible boulder crossings, and a few short, steep clambering sections at the upper reaches.
The highest point of the Pindari Glacier trek is at approximately 12,300 feet or 3,749 metres from the Zero Point. The climb is gentle, which also allows the body to acclimate at its own pace. This journey is not like a high altitude expedition where you need extra days for acclimatization.
To plan the Pindari Glacier Trek, a person need to have a good combination of knowledge on how to handle logistics, physical fitness, and the expertise on how to tackle the terrain. A good planning of the trek means your journey will be safe, hassle-free and enjoyable to the fullest.
The route starts from Khati Village. Most trekkers go via Bageshwar → Song → Kharkiya → Khati. The trail climbs gradually along the Pindar River through Dwali, Phurkia, to Zero Point.
The full trek usually lasts 6 to 7 days, not including travel days from your city.
Mid-April to June (Summer) and September to October (Autumn) are the best times. Avoid monsoon and winter.
Kathgodam is the nearest major station. From there, reach Kharkiya (8–9 hours via Bageshwar) and then trek to Khati Village.
Permits can be obtained from Bageshwar or Loharkhet. If booked through REwild India, all permits are obtained in advance.
Accommodation is in guesthouses, homestays, and KMVN tents. The diet is usually nutritious vegetarian.
A Proper packing is one of the most important things when to prepare for your Pindari Glacier trek. The trail crosses varying terrain - dense forest, grassy meadows, rocky moraines, and glacier fields, with a weather that can turn on a dime.
Preparation – both physical and mental – for the Pindari Glacier trek is as essential as perfect equipment. The trek to Pindari Glacier takes you to around 12,300 feet in altitude.
A concentrated fitness regime for a minimum of 6-8 weeks prior to your trek will make the experience smoother.
Running, biking, walking fast, swimming, or climbing stairs are all great ways to get your endurance up. The aim is to be able to jog or fast walk 5–6 km in less than 45 minutes without feeling dog tired.
Concentrate on developing functional strength. Squats, lunges, step-ups and calf raises help you stay steady on your feet. Do some push-ups, planks and crunches to build up your core.
Do stretching or yoga to improve your mobility. Concentrate on stretches for your hamstrings, calves, hips and shoulders. Balance drills can help keep you from slipping.
Pranayama exercises such as Anulom Vilom and Bhastrika enhance lung power and oxygen intake. Do a few short weekend hikes or runs at altitude.
Eat protein-rich foods—oats, lentils, eggs, leafy greens, and fruit. Aim for 2.5 to 3 liters of water a day. Refrain from alcohol and smoking.
The Pindari Glacier trek needs patience, perseverance and positivity. Meditation or mindfulness exercises can improve attention and fortitude.
The REwild trekking journey aims to transform your connection with nature, adventure, and your inner self. When you join us for the Pindari Glacier trek at REwild India, it’s not a trek itinerary you are signing up for; it’s an immersive experience where safety, sustainability and soulful exploration inform every step.
Rewild commits to making your trekking experience comfortable and worry-free. The size of the trekking party is deliberately small to enhance the quality of interaction.
All the guides are wilderness trained, first aid trained and mountain navigated. Local Kumaoni guides join our team, deeply rooted in the customs and traditions of the region.
All campsites are selected for natural beauty and access to water. Tents are roomy, waterproof and come with warm sleeping bags. Enjoy fresh cuisine prepared by local cooks.
REwild India is of the opinion that trekking should be a “leave no trace” activity. We work with rural communities to encourage sustainable tourism.
Particularly enriching elements of the REwild trekking experience is meeting the people who live in these mountains. On Pindari Glacier trek, you will cross charming villages like Khati and Dwali.
The REwild experience is an adventure within. The peaceful alcoves, clear blue streams, and snow-capped mountains of the Pindari will humble you and elevate your soul.
Pindari Glacier trek is a great combination of natural beauty, local culture and adventure. 6 - 7 days long trek leads you through green valleys and idyllic Kumauni villages. Here’s a brief sketch of the itinerary:
• 220 km / 8–9 hours.
• Scenic drive from Kathgodam to Kharkiya.
• Overnight at guest house or camp site.
• 8 km / 4–5 hours.
• Easy stroll through oak and rhododendron
woods.
• Night in Khati.
• 11 km / 6 hours.
• Trail runs along the Pindari River.
• Camp at Dwali.
• 5 km / 3 hours.
• Steeper section above the tree line.
• Camp at Phurkia.
• Distance 16 km / Time 7-8 hrs.
• Trek to Zero Point for a glorious view of the
Pindari Glacier.
• Return to Dwali.
• 19 km / 6–7 hours.
• Descend familiar trails back to Kharkiya.
• Overnight at the base.
• Drive 8-9 hours.
• Drive back to Kathgodam.
The journey from Kathgodam to Kharkiya is quite tedious but scenic as you drive through beautiful pine trees. Upon arrival at Kharkiya, meet the REwild team and get a briefing.
You are walking in thick oak, pine and rhododendron forests. Arrive at Khati Village. Dinner is served around a warm campfire as trekkers connect over common tales.
Today’s walk is a bit longer — about 11 kms. The path meanders through dense forests. Dwali’s camp is nestled among towering pines.
The air is brisk and growing colder and the view expands with every stride. This stretch is much shorter, but quite steep, so it will challenge your stamina.
This day marks the pinnacle of the entire trip. The trek starts early to Zero Point. The majestic ice wall glistens in the sun. The mood in the evening at Dwali is festive.
Descending toward Khati is a trip down memory lane. After a rest, the journey resumes to Kharkiya.
From Kharkiya to Kathgodam as you drive back, the valleys, villages, and peaks recede more and more. The trail for Pindari Glacier comes to an end here.
The Pindari Glacier is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India, Nanda Devi National Park in fact. Trek begins from the village of Kharkiya near Bageshwar.
The best time is October to December and March to June. Avoid monsoon season (July–August).
The Pindari Glacier trek height is About 12300 feet (3749 m) from Zero Point.
The Pindari Glacier trek is rated easy to moderate and is feasible for beginners and seasoned trekkers both.
The Pindari Glacier trek round trip route is approximately 48–52 km.
The Pindari Glacier trek price is generally between ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 per person for a 6–7 day trip.
The road head is Kharkiya Village, approx 220 km from Kathgodam. Reach Kathgodam by train or bus from Delhi.
Trekkers can opt for village homes at Khati and Dwali. Camping tents are installed at Phurkia and Zero Point.
Essentials: Hiking boots, warm layers, rain gear, trekking poles, headlamp, sunscreen, first-aid kit, refillable water bottle.
Yes, indeed. Pindari Glacier trek is also said to be one of the safest treks for beginners in the Himalayas.
