PANGARCHULLA PEAK TREK

The Pangarchulla Trek is a thrilling summit climb that takes you to an impressive altitude of 15,069 ft. It is perfect for those who seek the challenge of trekking to a Himalayan peak.

In the Indian Himalayas, we hardly find trekkable peaks. Scaling most peaks requires technical mountaineering skills. Even the trekkable ones are at the two opposite ends of difficulty levels. Summits like Kedarkantha or Chandrashila climb only to around 12,000 feet, while others like Kang Yatze stand nearly 20,000 feet above sea level.

This is where Pangarchulla comes in. It’s ideal for experienced trekkers ready to move beyond beginner summits. At the same time, it’s perfect for those hesitant to jump straight into tackling a 20,000-foot peak. On the summit day, you start the summit push at midnight and navigate a steep, demanding ascent across boulder-strewn slopes. But the rewards are just as grand. Situated right next to the famed Kuari Pass, the Pangarchulla summit is an even better vantage point for big mountain views. You find yourself surrounded by iconic peaks like Hathi Parbat, Gauri Parvat, Brahmal, Dronagiri, Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Chaukhamba. Then you get to see the first light of day touching these peaks. We have seen the intensity of this summit experience move trekkers to tears.

But the trek is not just about the summit climb. The journey from Auli itself is a feast for the senses. You trek through dense pine forests before arriving at the vast expanse of Gorson Bugyal. The walk through the Gorson meadows in the presence of Mt. Neelkanth, Mt. Nanda Devi and Mt. Dronagiri is surreal.

Then comes the Tali Lake and the Tali forest ahead of it. Camping inside Tali forest is an unforgettable experience.

Set amidst the Nanda Devi National Park, the trek has a lot of variety to offer. In March and April, the forests burst into vibrant shades of pink and red with blooming rhododendrons. The vast clearing of the Khullara campsite provides an idyllic setting to soak in the beauty of the Himalayas.

All along this journey, you see the Pangarchulla peak multiple times. It looks distant and unachievable. But with every step, you find yourself getting closer. And then, after a gruelling summit push, you suddenly find yourself standing on top of it.

Very few treks can rival the kind of summit challenge that Pangarchulla offers. Add the forests, clearings, and stunning mountain views, and you have a truly unbeatable trek.

5 Things We Love About the Pangarchulla Peak Trek

1) Our Karchi Campus
Staying at the Indiahikes Community Campus in Karchi is a standout experience for many trekkers. With Urjino Café, Crosstrek Stores, and relaxed breakout zones, it’s a refreshing change from the usual lodge stay. What truly sets it apart is the location — Mt. Dronagiri rises right in front of you. On clear days, you see the changing play of light on the peak across the day and even at night.

2) The Ledgewalk to Tali
The first day of your trek from Auli to Tali takes you across the vast Gorson Bugyal onto a narrow ledge. This ledgewalk then continues till Tali Lake. While walking along this ledge, you see prominent peaks like Neelkanth and Nanda Devi on your left. Down below, the turquoise stream of Dhauli Ganga twists and turns through a steep gorge. It is from this ledge that you see the Pangarchulla Peak for the first time. To witness something this grand on your very first day is a rare gift. It sets the tone for the rest of your trek.

3) An Adventure-Packed Summit Climb
The summit climb of Pangarchulla Peak truly defines this trek. It is long, steep, and challenging, requiring both endurance and determination. The trail takes you across vast stretches of boulders, often covered in snow, which test your balance and agility with every step. As you approach the summit, the terrain becomes even steeper, with tricky and exposed sections that add an element of thrill to the climb. Gaining nearly 4,000 feet in altitude on summit day, this adventure is perfect for those seeking the excitement of a demanding trek. Reaching the top is not just an achievement but an unforgettable experience that remains etched in your memory.

4) Spectacular Mountain Views
One of the standout features of the trek is the breathtaking mountain views. From the beginning, the mighty peaks of the Greater Himalayan Range accompany you, creating a stunning backdrop for your journey. At the summit, the views reach their peak. You are surrounded by a 360-degree panorama of some of the Himalayas’ most iconic peaks — Hathi Parbat, Mana Mandir, Nanda Devi, Kamet, Chaukhamba, Ghori Parbat, and more. These towering giants are steeped in mythology and mountaineering lore, making the experience even more meaningful.

5) The Magical Khullara Campsite
Khullara is one of the most scenic and enchanting spots in the Himalayas. Nestled in a wide clearing surrounded by dense forests, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The forests themselves are a highlight, especially in spring when the rhododendrons are in full bloom, painting the landscape with vibrant shades of pink and red. Spending two days at this campsite, including an acclimatisation day, allows you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty fully.

The Pangarchulla Peak Trek is for those who seek challenges. Whether it's the sense of achievement at the summit or the mesmerising views and magical campsites, it is packed with every element for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.