Ruinsara Lake Trek – The lake amidst the peaks
- Duration: 8 Days
- Highest Points: (3500 m)
- Best Time: March April May, June, Sep, Oct and Nov
Ruinsara Lake is a holy lake present in Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarkashi district at an elevation of 3500 meters. It is near River Supin’s source and at the base of Black Peak. It is famous for its green grasslands, alpine vegetation and Rhododendrons.
A short video that provide a brief insight into the vivid experiences of Ruinsara lake.
Credits – Tanuj Martolia
This place is related to Hindu Mythology and villagers believe and tell that Pandavas took this route for their ascent to Heaven through Swargarohini and they roamed in the forests here during their exile period of 14 years.
Ruinsara Lake is surrounded by tall standing peaks and offers majestic views of pristine mountains: – Black Peak, Swargarohini (I) (II) (III), Bandarpoonch and Ruinsara range.
On this Ruinsara Lake trek you will go through some of the most beautiful Himalayan villages with wooden houses and temples in which they worship their God. Explore the culture followed by these villagers and know them in close proximity
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (1920 m) (210 km) (7/8 hours)
Our pick up point is Dehradun Railway station or ISBT, meet us there and then drive is towards Sankri. You can have your breakfast at Kempty Fall which is a famous picnic spot and is famous for a waterfall. Have your lunch in the middle of your journey at Purola.
It’s a picturesque drive to Sankri, you will get fetching views through your window, and the drive will be through Dehradun, Mussoorie, Nainbagh, Damta, Newman, Purola, Mori, Netwar these are beautiful places in the Himalayas. Sankri lies in Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarkashi district, it is a village with a mini-market famous for wooden huts that serve delectable food. You will see apple orchards here and greenery all around.
Reach Sankri have a glace of snow-covered mountains, this place is pollution-free, enjoy the invigorating climate. We own a hotel there named “Swargarohini”, relax for the night here.
Day 2: Drive from Sankri to Taluka (11 km) trek from Taluka to Seema (2700 m) (12 km) (4/5 hours)
Have your breakfast and then leave for Taluka by taxi, it is 11 km away from Sankri when you reach there to take a short break and start your trek towards Cheludgad, the trail takes you through dense pine forest, varieties of animals live in this region as it is rich in Flora and Fauna. The trail is rough and is not in a very good condition.
When you trek through the dense forest, trees accompany you and Langoor’s hanging from one tree to another can be spotted there. The chirping of birds is common there and rare species of birds can be seen. The “Himalayan Monal” state bird of Uttarakhand is found in this area.
Day 3: Seema to Devsu Bugyal (3000 m) (7 km) (3/4 hours)
The trek today is 7 km long so carry packed lunch with you. Start heading towards Devsu Bugyal and while your ascent you can experience extremely beautiful views of snow-clad peaks, wide valleys and some cascading waterfalls.
Now, go through a thick forest of Pines and Oaks, walk under the shade of trees with the crumbling sound of leaves. This place has rich alpine vegetation and it is home to a number of Himalayan birds and animals which can be spotted on the way to campsite.
Reach Devsu Bugyal after a steep uphill trek, there you will witness the alluring greenery and undulating meadows all around. This is a great place for camping with amusing views of Kala Nag (Black Peak). Set up the tents and spend your night comfortably there. If you lack time to reach Cheludgad camp then 2 km ahead Taluka there is a campsite near a stream which is the water source for that campsite. Set up your tents, enjoy dinner and stay in tents.
Day 4: Devsu Bugyal to Ruinsara Lake (3500 m) (12 km) (6/7 hours)
Leave the campsite of Devsu Bugyal and head towards Ruinsara Lake, the trek is long so carried lunch to have in the middle of the trek. After ascending you will be mesmerized by the close views of mountains covered in snow with cascading waterfalls.
The path is muddy and some parts are slippery, so be careful while heading forward, after this section you have to cross a bridge over Supin.
After a steep ascent reach this sacred Lake surrounded by peaks and it offers majestic views of pristine mountains – Black Peak, Swargarohini (I) (II) (III), Bandarpoonch and Ruinsara range. Pitch the tents at the desired location here and after having salubrious food rest for the night.
Day 5: Rest Day at Ruinsara Lake
Today you can rest at this idyllic campsite or explore the nearby areas. Ahead lies a campsite Thanga, cross a river to reach there it is on the way to Bali Pass.
You can go towards the base of Swargarohini and Black Peak. Further is the route of Dhumdar Kandi Pass (5,490 m). After exploring these places get back to the campsite.
Day 6: Ruinsara Tal
to Devsu Bugyal (12 km) (5/6 hours)
Bid adieu to this serene Lake and retrace your steps to Devsu Bugyal with the same extremely beautiful views of snow-capped mountains and wide valleys.
Reach the campsite and pitch your tent amidst the meadow, have delicious food and sleep comfortably in tents.
Day 7: Devsu Bugyal to Taluka (18 km) (6/7 hours) Drive from Taluka to Sankri
From Devsu Bugyal start the descent to Taluka, trek through Seema which was your campsite on Day 2. Reach Taluka, take a small break there. The trek ends here vehicles will be arranged for Sankri.
Go to hotel Swargarohini at Sankri, arrangements will be made there.
Day 8: Sankri to Dehradun (210 km) (7/8 hours)
Leave for Dehradun early so that you can reach there around 6:00 pm.
Know More for Other Indian Trek: Brahmatal Trek, Kedarkantha Trek & many more.
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Ruinsara Lake Trek, you will need to choose the right kind of grip and sole for the shoe. We recommend that you check for water-resistance and a deep yet flexible sole for the all factors that you will face.
Importance: Your legs need to be well taken care of by the shoes over the course of the Ruinsara Lake
Trek. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Ruinsara Lake Trek
Type: This purely depends on the kind of trek you are undertaking
- For Short Trek of 1 to 3 Days duration you need 15 litres to 20 litres of backpack
- For Long Trek of 3 to 10 Days duration you need 40 litres to 60 litres of backpack
Importance: Your backpack is as important as your shoe. Your entire journey will be with the Backpack with all the essentials you need. We recommend that you test the backpack and choose it according to the trek, your height & the comfort it provides.
Daypack
Type: This is 10 litres to 15 litres Daypack Backpack is what you need to have with you for the Summit day.
Importance: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your basic essentials with you.
Clothing
Padded Jacket – You will need 1 pair of the Jacket for Summer & Winter. Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & capable of keeping your warm up to -10 degrees.
Fleece Jacket – You will need 2 pairs of the Fleece Jacket. Make sure it’s Cotton or contains more Cotton.
Thermals – For the Black Peak Winter trek, you will require 1 pair of thermals because of the cold winter. During the summer, this is optional. Thermals should also be made primarily of Cotton. This will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature usually tends to drop.
Trek Pants – Exclusively meant for Trekking, you will need a minimum of 2 pairs of Trekking Pants. Ensure it is made of Cotton & provides maximum comfort and is durable for the Ruinsara Lake.
Collared T-shirts – Carry 2 – 3 sets of these for the trek. The collar will help keeping the neck from being exposed to the sun and getting sun burnt during the Black Peak in summer, when it is normally sunny.
Sun Caps – At high altitudes, the Sun might be harsh and direct exposure of your head to the sun is not something we would recommend. Carry Sun Caps in case these situations arise to keep your head cool on the Ruinsara Lake
trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Ruinsara Lake trek in December and other winter months will have very cold nights in the mountains and you must protect your ears and head from the cold winds. Woolen caps are essentials during the nights to keep your ears and head warm.
Waterproof Gloves:You will need waterproof gloves as you move towards colder and wet parts of the Ruinsara Lake trek to keep your hands clean & warm without getting them wet and most importantly, to give you the grip and firmness you need for the climb.
Trek Accessories
Trekking Pole: The Ruinsara Lake trek difficulty can be eased out by carrying one of our Trekking/Hiking Poles as it saves almost 60% of your energy when you are climbing a steep slope at high altitude regions. We make it a mandate to carry a Trekking Pole with you for our treks.
Head-lamp or Torch: : A Head-Lamp is something we make a mandate too, for our Treks. Carrying this will help you see better in dark places on the Black Peak Trek. In case you are unable to procure a Head-lamp, then we suggest carrying a Torch.
Daily essentials
Toiletries: We recommend that you carry all your toiletries and all other cosmetic essentials by yourself to avoid borrowing (Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Lip-balm, Moisturizer, Face-wash, Other creams & essentials, Toilet roll, Sanitary Pads, etc.). Do not leave used napkins in the mountains these are against Himalayan laws.
Bottles & Boxes: Carry your Water Bottles we suggest you have two 1 litre bottles. We suggest you carry your own tiffin boxes to eat the food we provide for both convenience, and hygienic purposes.
Risks and challenges are part of everyone’s lives; without taking risks and facing challenges one cannot aim to achieve what he wants to be. These challenges help inculcate in us life skills needed to survive through tough situations. We consider this the motto of our company- to prepare an individual to face the risks of life, the challenges that come their way, and to equip them with the knowledge to overcome them.
Trekking, directly or indirectly, helps develop these qualities and also garners quick decision making techniques as per the circumstances. It allows you to learn how nature works and the strong impact of the environment on one’s life.
The company has made all possible arrangements and taken all the necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps. However, it is still essential to enlighten our trekkers about the possible risks and challenges that they may meet with on the trekking route and how these can be avoided or overcome. Remember to be proactive at all times and with this is mind, let’s discuss some common risks and challenges along the Black Peak trek map and ways to avoid them.
Ruinsara Lake Trek – The lake amidst the peaks
- Duration: 8 Days
- Highest Points: (3500 m)
- Best Time: March April May, June, Sep, Oct and Nov
Ruinsara Lake is a holy lake present in Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarkashi district at an elevation of 3500 meters. It is near River Supin’s source and at the base of Black Peak. It is famous for its green grasslands, alpine vegetation and Rhododendrons.
A short video that provide a brief insight into the vivid experiences of Ruinsara lake.
Credits – Tanuj Martolia
This place is related to Hindu Mythology and villagers believe and tell that Pandavas took this route for their ascent to Heaven through Swargarohini and they roamed in the forests here during their exile period of 14 years.
Ruinsara Lake is surrounded by tall standing peaks and offers majestic views of pristine mountains: – Black Peak, Swargarohini (I) (II) (III), Bandarpoonch and Ruinsara range.
On this Ruinsara Lake trek you will go through some of the most beautiful Himalayan villages with wooden houses and temples in which they worship their God. Explore the culture followed by these villagers and know them in close proximity
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (1920 m) (210 km) (7/8 hours)
Our pick up point is Dehradun Railway station or ISBT, meet us there and then drive is towards Sankri. You can have your breakfast at Kempty Fall which is a famous picnic spot and is famous for a waterfall. Have your lunch in the middle of your journey at Purola.
It’s a picturesque drive to Sankri, you will get fetching views through your window, and the drive will be through Dehradun, Mussoorie, Nainbagh, Damta, Newman, Purola, Mori, Netwar these are beautiful places in the Himalayas. Sankri lies in Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarkashi district, it is a village with a mini-market famous for wooden huts that serve delectable food. You will see apple orchards here and greenery all around.
Reach Sankri have a glace of snow-covered mountains, this place is pollution-free, enjoy the invigorating climate. We own a hotel there named “Swargarohini”, relax for the night here.
Day 2: Drive from Sankri to Taluka (11 km) trek from Taluka to Seema (2700 m) (12 km) (4/5 hours)
Have your breakfast and then leave for Taluka by taxi, it is 11 km away from Sankri when you reach there to take a short break and start your trek towards Cheludgad, the trail takes you through dense pine forest, varieties of animals live in this region as it is rich in Flora and Fauna. The trail is rough and is not in a very good condition.
When you trek through the dense forest, trees accompany you and Langoor’s hanging from one tree to another can be spotted there. The chirping of birds is common there and rare species of birds can be seen. The “Himalayan Monal” state bird of Uttarakhand is found in this area.
Day 3: Seema to Devsu Bugyal (3000 m) (7 km) (3/4 hours)
The trek today is 7 km long so carry packed lunch with you. Start heading towards Devsu Bugyal and while your ascent you can experience extremely beautiful views of snow-clad peaks, wide valleys and some cascading waterfalls.
Now, go through a thick forest of Pines and Oaks, walk under the shade of trees with the crumbling sound of leaves. This place has rich alpine vegetation and it is home to a number of Himalayan birds and animals which can be spotted on the way to campsite.
Reach Devsu Bugyal after a steep uphill trek, there you will witness the alluring greenery and undulating meadows all around. This is a great place for camping with amusing views of Kala Nag (Black Peak). Set up the tents and spend your night comfortably there. If you lack time to reach Cheludgad camp then 2 km ahead Taluka there is a campsite near a stream which is the water source for that campsite. Set up your tents, enjoy dinner and stay in tents.
Day 4: Devsu Bugyal to Ruinsara Lake (3500 m) (12 km) (6/7 hours)
Leave the campsite of Devsu Bugyal and head towards Ruinsara Lake, the trek is long so carried lunch to have in the middle of the trek. After ascending you will be mesmerized by the close views of mountains covered in snow with cascading waterfalls.
The path is muddy and some parts are slippery, so be careful while heading forward, after this section you have to cross a bridge over Supin.
After a steep ascent reach this sacred Lake surrounded by peaks and it offers majestic views of pristine mountains – Black Peak, Swargarohini (I) (II) (III), Bandarpoonch and Ruinsara range. Pitch the tents at the desired location here and after having salubrious food rest for the night.
Day 5: Rest Day at Ruinsara Lake
Today you can rest at this idyllic campsite or explore the nearby areas. Ahead lies a campsite Thanga, cross a river to reach there it is on the way to Bali Pass.
You can go towards the base of Swargarohini and Black Peak. Further is the route of Dhumdar Kandi Pass (5,490 m). After exploring these places get back to the campsite.
Day 6: Ruinsara Tal
to Devsu Bugyal (12 km) (5/6 hours)
Bid adieu to this serene Lake and retrace your steps to Devsu Bugyal with the same extremely beautiful views of snow-capped mountains and wide valleys.
Reach the campsite and pitch your tent amidst the meadow, have delicious food and sleep comfortably in tents.
Day 7: Devsu Bugyal to Taluka (18 km) (6/7 hours) Drive from Taluka to Sankri
From Devsu Bugyal start the descent to Taluka, trek through Seema which was your campsite on Day 2. Reach Taluka, take a small break there. The trek ends here vehicles will be arranged for Sankri.
Go to hotel Swargarohini at Sankri, arrangements will be made there.
Day 8: Sankri to Dehradun (210 km) (7/8 hours)
Leave for Dehradun early so that you can reach there around 6:00 pm.
Know More for Other Indian Trek: Brahmatal Trek, Kedarkantha Trek & many more.
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Ruinsara Lake Trek, you will need to choose the right kind of grip and sole for the shoe. We recommend that you check for water-resistance and a deep yet flexible sole for the all factors that you will face.
Importance: Your legs need to be well taken care of by the shoes over the course of the Ruinsara Lake
Trek. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Ruinsara Lake Trek
Type: This purely depends on the kind of trek you are undertaking
- For Short Trek of 1 to 3 Days duration you need 15 litres to 20 litres of backpack
- For Long Trek of 3 to 10 Days duration you need 40 litres to 60 litres of backpack
Importance: Your backpack is as important as your shoe. Your entire journey will be with the Backpack with all the essentials you need. We recommend that you test the backpack and choose it according to the trek, your height & the comfort it provides.
Daypack
Type: This is 10 litres to 15 litres Daypack Backpack is what you need to have with you for the Summit day.
Importance: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your basic essentials with you.
Clothing
Padded Jacket – You will need 1 pair of the Jacket for Summer & Winter. Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & capable of keeping your warm up to -10 degrees.
Fleece Jacket – You will need 2 pairs of the Fleece Jacket. Make sure it’s Cotton or contains more Cotton.
Thermals – For the Black Peak Winter trek, you will require 1 pair of thermals because of the cold winter. During the summer, this is optional. Thermals should also be made primarily of Cotton. This will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature usually tends to drop.
Trek Pants – Exclusively meant for Trekking, you will need a minimum of 2 pairs of Trekking Pants. Ensure it is made of Cotton & provides maximum comfort and is durable for the Ruinsara Lake.
Collared T-shirts – Carry 2 – 3 sets of these for the trek. The collar will help keeping the neck from being exposed to the sun and getting sun burnt during the Black Peak in summer, when it is normally sunny.
Sun Caps – At high altitudes, the Sun might be harsh and direct exposure of your head to the sun is not something we would recommend. Carry Sun Caps in case these situations arise to keep your head cool on the Ruinsara Lake
trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Ruinsara Lake trek in December and other winter months will have very cold nights in the mountains and you must protect your ears and head from the cold winds. Woolen caps are essentials during the nights to keep your ears and head warm.
Waterproof Gloves:You will need waterproof gloves as you move towards colder and wet parts of the Ruinsara Lake trek to keep your hands clean & warm without getting them wet and most importantly, to give you the grip and firmness you need for the climb.
Trek Accessories
Trekking Pole: The Ruinsara Lake trek difficulty can be eased out by carrying one of our Trekking/Hiking Poles as it saves almost 60% of your energy when you are climbing a steep slope at high altitude regions. We make it a mandate to carry a Trekking Pole with you for our treks.
Head-lamp or Torch: : A Head-Lamp is something we make a mandate too, for our Treks. Carrying this will help you see better in dark places on the Black Peak Trek. In case you are unable to procure a Head-lamp, then we suggest carrying a Torch.
Daily essentials
Toiletries: We recommend that you carry all your toiletries and all other cosmetic essentials by yourself to avoid borrowing (Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Lip-balm, Moisturizer, Face-wash, Other creams & essentials, Toilet roll, Sanitary Pads, etc.). Do not leave used napkins in the mountains these are against Himalayan laws.
Bottles & Boxes: Carry your Water Bottles we suggest you have two 1 litre bottles. We suggest you carry your own tiffin boxes to eat the food we provide for both convenience, and hygienic purposes.
Risks and challenges are part of everyone’s lives; without taking risks and facing challenges one cannot aim to achieve what he wants to be. These challenges help inculcate in us life skills needed to survive through tough situations. We consider this the motto of our company- to prepare an individual to face the risks of life, the challenges that come their way, and to equip them with the knowledge to overcome them.
Trekking, directly or indirectly, helps develop these qualities and also garners quick decision making techniques as per the circumstances. It allows you to learn how nature works and the strong impact of the environment on one’s life.
The company has made all possible arrangements and taken all the necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps. However, it is still essential to enlighten our trekkers about the possible risks and challenges that they may meet with on the trekking route and how these can be avoided or overcome. Remember to be proactive at all times and with this is mind, let’s discuss some common risks and challenges along the Black Peak trek map and ways to avoid them.