Gulabi Kantha Trek

Himalayan Trekking

Moderate

Gulabi Kantha Trek

 
 
 
 

 

Max Altitude
 5 Days
 24 Km
 Uttrakhand
 India
 

Overview

Trek Name: Gulabi Kantha Trek

Days: 5

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Hanuman Chatti

Season:Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |

Month:January | February | March | April | May | October | November | December |

Country: India

Altitude: 13200 Ft.

Grade: Moderate

Rail Head: Dehradun

Stay: Camping(Twin Sharing) & Hotel/Guest House(Separate for male & female))

Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse

Location: Uttarakhand

Distance: 24 Km.

Trail Type: Summit, Circle trail | Scale a peak, Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the same point.

AirPort: Jolly Grant Airport, which is 28 km away from Dehradun

Highlights:

  • Services from Hanuman Chatti to Hanuman Chatti
  • Base Camp Accommodation: Home stay with attached washroom (no bunk beds).
  • Complimentary cloakroom at base camp for safe storage.
  • Pickup & Drop Location: Nearest Railway Station
    Pickup: 06:00 AM | Drop: 06:30 PM–07:30 PM (weather/road dependent)
    Keep a buffer day and arrive a day early to avoid delays.

Who Can Participate

  • Age Requirement:
    • Minimum 9 years
  • First-timers are welcome, though prior trekking experience is preferred. Good fitness is a must.
  • Fitness Criteria:
    • The Trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance by jogging in 35 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance in 80 minutes without stress
    • If the trekker prefers cycling he/ she should be able to cycle 10 km of distance in 30 minutes.
  • If the trekker wants to carry a backpack then he/she should be able to carry a 10-12 kg backpack. If opt Off-load option then the trekker should be able to carry a 3-5 kg backpack.
  • If a trekker’s BMI is more or less than the normal range (18-29), please consult our Trek Coordinator before booking.
  •  

Itinerary

Day-1: Dehradun to Hanuman Chatti

  • Altitude Hanuman Chatti: 21,00 m/ 6,800 ft
  • Drive Distance: 180 km | 6-7 hrs

Day-2: Hanuman Chatti to Kandola Chhani

  • Altitude Kandola Chhani: 2,700 m/ 8,900 ft
  • Trek Distance: 5 km | 4-5 hrs

Day-3: Kandola Chhani to Seema Thatch

  • Altitude:
    • Kandola Chhani: 2,700 m/ 8,900 ft
    • Seema Thatch: 3,474 m/ 11,400 ft
  • Trek Distance: 6 km | 6-7 hrs

Day-4: Seema Thatch to Gulabi Kantha summit and Descend to Kandola Chhani

  • Altitude:
    • Seema Thatch: 3,474 m/ 11,400 ft
    • Gulabi Kantha Summit: 4,000 m/ 13,200 ft
    • Kandola Chhani: 2,700 m/ 8,900 ft
  • Trek Distance:
    • Seema Thatch to Gulabi Kantha Summit and back to Seema Thatch: 6 km | 6 hrs (both ways)
    • Seema Thatch to Kandola Chhani: 6 km | 4 hrs

Day-5: Kandola Chhani to Hanuman Chatti and drive to Dehradun

  • Altitude:
    • Kandola Chhani: 2,700 m/ 8,900 ft
    • Hanuman Chatti: 2,100 m/ 6,800 ft
  • Trek Distance: 5 km | 3-4 hrs
  • Drive Distance: 180 km | 6-7 hrs
Note:
  • Keep a buffer day in your travel plan.
  • If buffer day is not used in the travel then it can be used to Explore Dehradun.
  • Distance, Altitude, and Trekking hours are approximate and rounded off.
  • Keep the original and copy of ID proof handy.
  • Come one day early if planning to come by plane.

Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Hanuman Chatti

  • Altitude: 2,100 m / 6,800 ft
  • Drive Distance: 180 km | 6–7 hours
  • Stay: Guesthouse / Homestay

The journey for the Gulabi Kantha Trek begins from Dehradun. From here you drive through the scenic hills of Uttarakhand towards Hanuman Chatti.

The route passes through Mussoorie, often called the “Queen of Hills”. From here you can see beautiful views of the Doon Valley and surrounding mountains. The road then moves towards Kempty Falls and continues through the peaceful towns of Naugaon and Barkot.

As you approach Hanuman Chatti, the landscape becomes quieter and more mountainous. This small Himalayan settlement has historically been a resting point for pilgrims traveling to Yamunotri. After reaching, you check into your accommodation, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night before beginning the trek.

Day 2: Trek from Hanuman Chatti to Kandola Chhani

  • Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,900 ft
  • Trek Distance: 5 km | 4–5 hours
  • Stay: Tents

After breakfast, the trek officially begins from Hanuman Chatti. The trail gradually climbs through forests, mountain streams, and traditional Himalayan villages.

You will pass through the charming village of Nishni, known for its traditional wooden houses and beautiful terraced fields. The village also has a distinctive multi-storey Shiva temple that reflects the culture of the Yamuna valley.

The trail then continues through rhododendron and oak forests until you reach Kandola Chhani. This peaceful high-altitude meadow is surrounded by forests and offers distant views of snow-covered peaks. Tents are pitched here for the night.

Day 3: Trek from Kandola Chhani to Seema Thatch

  • Kandola Chhani Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,900 ft
  • Seema Thatch Altitude: 3,474 m / 11,400 ft
  • Trek Distance: 6 km | 6–7 hours
  • Stay: Tents

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the mountains as you walk from Kandola Chhani to Seema Thatch. The trail initially passes through dense forests of oak and rhododendron before gradually opening into alpine meadows.

As the forest thins out, the landscape transforms into wide grasslands covered with seasonal wildflowers. During spring and summer, rhododendron blossoms add vibrant colours to the surroundings.

Seema Thatch is a beautiful high-altitude meadow surrounded by rugged Himalayan peaks. In the evening you can witness stunning sunset colours spreading across the sky, making this campsite one of the highlights of the trek.

Day 4: Trek to Gulabi Kantha Summit and Descend to Kandola Chhani

  • Seema Thatch: 3,474 m / 11,400 ft
  • Gulabi Kantha Summit: 4,000 m / 13,200 ft
  • Kandola Chhani: 2,700 m / 8,900 ft
  • Trek Distance: Approx. 12 km | 8–9 hours
  • Stay: Tents

Summit day begins early as you start the climb from Seema Thatch towards Gulabi Kantha. The ascent is steady but rewarding, with changing landscapes and spectacular views opening up as you gain altitude.

Along the route you pass Jhandi Top before continuing towards the summit. From the top of Gulabi Kantha you are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayan range.

Prominent peaks visible from here include Bandarpoonch I & II, Swargarohini massif, the Gangotri range, Mt. Jaonli, and Srikanth peak. After spending some time enjoying the views, you descend back through Seema Thatch and continue down to Kandola Chhani for the night.

Day 5: Trek from Kandola Chhani to Hanuman Chatti – Drive to Dehradun

  • Kandola Chhani: 2,700 m / 8,900 ft
  • Hanuman Chatti: 2,100 m / 6,800 ft
  • Trek Distance: 5 km | 3–4 hours
  • Drive Distance: 180 km | 6–7 hours

On the final day you descend from Kandola Chhani back to Hanuman Chatti. The trail moves through the same forests and meadows you crossed earlier, offering one last chance to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas.

After reaching Hanuman Chatti, the trek concludes and you begin the drive back to Dehradun. The scenic return journey through mountain roads marks the end of this memorable trekking experience.

By evening you reach Dehradun, carrying wonderful memories of the colourful meadows, peaceful forests, and magnificent Himalayan views of the Gulabi Kantha Trek.

Trek Essentials

Backpack with rain cover(50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps
Day pack with rain cover20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted)
Walking stickAdvisable (At least one)
Water Bottle / Hydration pack2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask.
Small size tiffin/lunch box1 Nos
SnacksEnergy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors
Personal Medical KitConsult your doctor

 

T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)1 Full & 2 Half sleeves
Fleece T-shirt1 Nos
Fleece jacket1 Nos
Windproof Jacket1 Nos
Down feather / Hollow jacket1 Nos
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)1 Pair
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)2 Nos
Fleece Pant1 Nos
Waterproof gloves1 Pair
Fleece / woollen gloves1 Pair
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant1 Nos

 

Head torch1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch)
Sun Cap1 Nos
Woolen cap1 Nos.
Balaclava1 Nos.
Buff / Neck-gaiters1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen
SunglassesUV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses

 

Trekking shoes1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle, good grip)
Floaters / flip-flops1 Pair
Cotton socks6 pairs
Woollen socks1 pairs
Gaiters1 Pair (NK provides when required)
Micro spikes1 Pair (NK provides when required)

 

Sunscreen1 Nos
Moisturiser1 Nos
Chap-stick / Lip balm1 Nos
Toothbrush and toothpaste1 Nos
Toilet paper & Wipes1 Nos
Soap / hand sanitizers1 Nos
Antibacterial powder1 Nos
Quick dry towel1 Nos

FAQs

The Gulabi Kantha Trek is famous for its untouched alpine meadows, colorful wildflowers, and beautiful Himalayan views. During spring and early summer, the trail is covered with blooming rhododendrons in shades of pink and red. From the summit, trekkers enjoy spectacular views of peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and the Gangotri massif. The trek is also known for being peaceful and less crowded.

Gulabi Kantha is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. The trek usually starts from Hanuman Chatti, a small town in the Garhwal Himalayas. The region is known for its forests, scenic mountain views, and beautiful alpine meadows.

The trek can be done in multiple seasons:

  • Spring (April – June): Rhododendrons bloom and the trail becomes colorful.
  • Autumn (September – November): Clear skies and excellent mountain views.
  • Winter (December – February): Snow-covered landscapes and quieter trails.
  • Spring: 10°C to 24°C during the day and around -4°C to 6°C at night.
  • Summer: 12°C to 27°C during the day and 4°C to 7°C at night.
  • Autumn: 9°C to 20°C during the day and 0°C to 5°C at night.
  • Winter: 7°C to 16°C during the day and -5°C to -10°C at night with snow.

Gulabi Kantha is less crowded compared to many popular treks in Uttarakhand. The trail offers a mix of dense forests, flower-filled meadows, and beautiful Himalayan views. Its peaceful environment and scenic variety make it a unique trekking experience.

The trek package usually includes transportation from the pickup city to the base camp and back, accommodation in tents, all meals during the trek, experienced trek leaders, local guides, and support staff.

It also includes camping equipment like tents, sleeping bags, mats, and safety items such as medical kits and oxygen cylinders. Forest permits and entry fees are generally included as well.

The Gulabi Kantha Trek is considered easy to moderate and is suitable for beginners. The trail has gradual ascents and manageable trekking distances. However, basic fitness is still important as the trek reaches altitudes above 12,000 ft.

Trekkers should be able to walk around 5–6 km comfortably on slopes. It is recommended to start fitness preparation at least 3–4 weeks before the trek with activities like walking, jogging, and stair climbing.

Yes, forest permits and entry permissions are required to enter the trekking region. These permits are usually arranged by the trekking organization as part of the package.

There are no permanent toilet facilities along the trekking route. However, temporary eco-friendly toilet tents are usually set up at campsites to maintain hygiene. Trekkers should carry personal hygiene items like tissue paper and sanitizer.

The trail passes through forests of oak, maple, and rhododendron and later opens into beautiful alpine meadows. The weather is generally pleasant during spring and autumn but can become cold at night. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so proper clothing is important.

The trek passes through forests of oak, cedar, maple, and rhododendron. During spring and post-monsoon, the meadows are filled with colorful wildflowers. Trekkers may also spot birds like the Himalayan monal and woodpeckers.

From the summit of Gulabi Kantha, trekkers get stunning views of many Himalayan peaks including:

  • Swargarohini (I, II, III)
  • Bandarpunch I & II
  • Gangotri Massif
  • Mt. Jaonli
  • Mt. Srikanth

Some other popular treks in Uttarakhand include Kedarkantha Trek, Har Ki Dun Trek, Brahmatal Trek, Valley of Flowers Trek, and Roopkund Trek. These treks offer beautiful landscapes and Himalayan views for trekkers of different experience levels.

Payment & Cancellation Policy:

When you have firmly decided to undertake the Tour with New Knight Adventure, you will need to book the trip with us. We must allocate enough time to prepare, obtain necessary documents and permits, and book hotels and Transport for the trip.
25% advance during the time of booking for confirmation
50% Amount one month prior of arrival in India
25% Amount to be one week prior of arrival in India

 

Cancellation Policy:

• If the cancellation is made 30 days before the tour starts, 25% of the full payment will be deducted and 75% will be refunded.
• If the cancellation is made 20 days before the tour start, 35% of the full payment will be deducted and 65% will be refunded
• If the cancellation is made 10 days before the tour start, 80% will be deducted and 20% will be refunded.
• No refund is made if the trip is cancelled after the departure for Expedition.
• No refund is made during the running tour.
• The cost of travel permit or any other documentation charges will not be refundable

Note: New Knight Adventure do all the ground operations in advance (As soon as we received the confirmation request from the guest). We pay advance payment to all our vendors to ensure all the services that we promise with the guest.