Dhumdharkandi Pass

Dhumdharkandi Pass trek

Duration: 13 Days
Best Time: June – Sep

Dhumdhar Kandi Pass was first recognised by James Baillie in 1815 and a team from West Bengal scaled this pass. In ancient times this route was used by locals to reach the remote Tons valley. It connects Bhagirathi to tons valley which starts from Sian Gad’s confluence.

The breathtaking views from Dhumdar Kandi Pass

Trekking through Himalayan villages, surpassing meadows and snow fields

Great campsites – “Kyarkoti” and “Bank of Ruinsara Lake”

Trek starts from Taluka, the last village of Tons valley and ends at another village Jhala.

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (1920 m) (210 km) (7/8 hours) overnight stay in a hotel

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 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 which 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) overnight stay in tents

Have your breakfast and then leave for Taluka by taxi, it is 11 km away from Sankri when you reach there 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. 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.

If you lack time to reach Cheludgad camp then 2 km ahead Taluka there is a campsite near a stream which is water source for that campsite. Setup your tents, enjoy dinner and stay in tents.

Day 3: Seema to Devsu Bugyal (3000 m) (7 km) (3/4 hours) overnight stay in tents

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 cladded peaks, wide valleys and some cascading waterfalls.

Now, go through thick forest of Pines and Oaks, walk under the shade of trees with 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). Setup the tents and spend your night comfortably there.

Day 4: Devsu Bugyal to Ruinsara Lake (3500 m) (12 km) (6/7 hours) overnight stay in tents

Leave the campsite of Devsu Bugyal and head towards Ruinsara Lake, the trek is long so carry lunch to have in 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 desired location here and after having salubrious food rest for the night.

Day 5: Ruinsara Lake to Kyarkoti Advance Base Camp (3900) (7 km) (5/6 hours) overnight stay in tents

Make a wish to Ruinsara Lake and head towards Kyarkoti. From here Black Peak is visible, the sight is enough to energize you for upcoming days.

Kyarkoti is a meadow amidst mountains and boulders, setup your tents and settle for the day.

Day 6: Kyarkoti Advance Base Camp to Dharon Odari (Camp 01) (4500 m) (6 km) (3/4 hours) overnight stay in tents

Your campsite for today is Dharon Odari, it is your camp 01. Leave the grounds of Kyarkoti and head further. Altitude is gained and after a sheer ascent you can reach the destination. Pitch your tents and settle for the day.

Day 7: Acclimatization at Camp 01

Acclimatization prevents High altitude sickness, go on a short hike today and rest for the day.

Day 8: Dharon Odari (Camp 01) to Camp 02 (5000 m) (4 km) overnight stay in tents

Start the trek from Camp 01 to Camp 02, it is at a height of 5000 metres. After crossing steep ascents and tough trek reach the campsite. Setup the tents and sleep comfortably in tents.

Day 9: Camp 02 to Dhumdhar Kandi Pass (5608 m) and Ratiya camp (6 km) (4/5 hours) overnight stay in tents

Analyse the conditions of weather and trail and without wasting any time head towards Dhumdhar Kandi Pass. Most of the part of today’s trek is gradual ascent but further you will be crossing humps and a steep climb.

Reach the top (5608 m) and get the surpassing views of Swargarohini, Black Peak and Bandarpoonch. After you spend good time at the pass plan the descent, it is steep and tough at first but further it gets easy.

The campsite for today is Ratiya camp reach there and set your camps in a safe place. Have salubrious food and rest for the night.

Day 10: Ratiya camp to Kyarkoti (9 km) (4/5 hours) overnight stay in tents

Post breakfast descent towards Kyarkoti, which was your campsite on Day 5. The grasslands are perfect for camping, have pleasure of spending one more night there and rest for the night.

Day 11: Kyarkoti to Dharian Gharat (7 km) (4/5 hours) overnight stay in tents

From Kyarkoti it is an easy descent to Dharian Gharat, today’s trek can be completed in 4 to 5 hours. Reach the campsite place your tents and settle for the day.

Day 12: Dharian Gharat to Jhala (9 km) Drive to Uttarkashi (86 km) overnight stay in a hotel

Jhala is a mini village and ending point of this trek from here the drive is towards Sankri. Go to Swargarohini hotel and comfortably rest for the night.

Day 13: Uttarkashi to Dehradun

After having breakfast at hotel leave for Dehradun.

Fitness Tips for the Mountains:

The Mountaineer Fitness Plan starts with training both the Mind & Body. Persistence consists of 50% Mind & 50% Body. If you get your mind to do it, you’ve already run half the race!

We, at Discovery Hike, believe in following the SSS Mantra – A 4 week routine of Stretches, Stamina, and Strength before you start with any trek with us. Whether you are a Beginner or a Pro, an adult or a teenager, you must follow this regime for the 30 days leading up to your Trek – this will ensure that your body is trained for the exercise of the trek and will help prevent cramps, pulls, and strains.

Stretches –Stretching is probably the most neglected but the most crucial part of your fitness preparation. This will enable all your muscles to stay intact &amp ; be activated rather than cramping. It will improve your performance in all activities you undertake, decrease your risk of injuries, help in your joint movements. Overall, stretching will enable your muscles to work at their best.

Tips you need to follow

Shoulder stretches: follow the link for proper shoulder stretches

Wrist stretches: Follow the link for proper wrist stretches

Hamstring stretches: Follow the link for proper hamstring stretches

Calf stretches: Follow the link for proper calf Stretch

Stamina –The Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek difficulty level demands good stamina.
Spare 30 – 45 min daily for cardio in order to build stamina and persistence over time.
You will need to start with walking 4 km & gradually increase the distance and decrease the time taken to cover it. Effectively, your goal will be to walk for 4+km a day in half hour. From just walking, turn this into running/jogging for the same distance till you feel comfortable covering long distances in short time.

Strength – – Strength is working on various parts of your body to compliment your Stamina. Carrying your backpack and climbing uphill can be tedious. A lot of muscle is required to endure the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek, especially in areas of the Upper Back, Lower Back, Core, Legs, and Arms.

Upper Body – You will need to do Push-ups after cardio. Try 5 – 10 push-ups a day and repeat the same in sets of 3, daily.Your goal will be to reach 15 – 30 push-ups daily.

Lower Back – Do a Plank, starting with 30 seconds a day. Add 10 – 15 seconds more daily to improve the strength you add to you core. Effectively your goal will be to do the Plank for 3 – 5 minutes.

Arms – – You can do lights lifts in the Gym. If not the gym, you can use a heavy book or object & amp ; move it towards your shoulder without losing form & repeat the same for both arms for about 30 times in sets of 3. Effectively, your goal will be to perform 100 lifts in each arm.

Legs – You will have to start with squats of 5 – 10 in sets of 3. Alternatively, you can also do Wall sits-up of 5 – 10 in sets of 3. Effectively your goal will be to perform 15 – 30 squats/sit-ups.

Core – You will need start with crunches of 5 – 10 in sets of 3 and keep adding more everyday. This will build not just the core but your Lower back & enhance your stamina too. By the end of it, you will need to do 30 – 50 squats in a day.

Mental Health – The other 50% of your Training comes from Mental Wellness. This will surely help you when you are faced against the harness of nature to give you the strength required to overcome obstacles of any kind. The best mind that one can achieve this is a calm mind. We recommend that you partake in Yoga for Mental Rest & Relaxation.

Exercises You Must Follow

Take slow, deep breaths. Or try other breathing exercises for relaxation

Soak in a warm bath

Listen to soothing music

Practice mindful meditation

Mental Health – The other 50% of your Training comes from Mental Wellness. This will surely help you when you are faced against the harness of nature to give you the strength required to overcome obstacles of any kind. The best mind that can achieve this is a calm mind. We recommend that you partake in Yoga for some Mental Rest & Relaxation.

Take slow, deep breaths. Or try other breathing exercises for relaxation

Soak in a warm bath

Listen to soothing music

Practice mindful meditation

Sleep early and Rise Early

We hope the above suggestions prove to be useful. These are merely guidelines to be in the right shape of Mental & Physical state before any trek. If you are already following a regime that suits your body type, we suggest that you continue it. This is for Beginners and a Start-up kit for those who are about to undertake the Rupin Pass Trek with us.

BMI CUTOFF

BMI for different trek grade conditions are different. If anyone is above the cutoff, they will be considered overweight and not be allowed to trek with us.

BP CUT OFF

BP cut off is different for different altitudes. If BP is above our cut-off, the trekker needs to descend as soon as possible to the core base as high BP values can be dangerous.

Hiking Shoes for the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek

Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Dhumdharkandi Pass 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 Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.

Backpack for the Dhumdharkandi Pass 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 Dhumdharkandi Pass 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 Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek.

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 Dhumdharkandi Pass trek, when it is normally sunny.

Woolen Caps – The Dhumdharkandi Pass 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 Dhumdharkandi Pass 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 Dhumdharkandi Pass 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 Dhumdharkandi Pass 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.

The trek fee covers all costs from Dhaula to Sanglakanda.

Services Included for Black Peak Trek:

Accommodation – The Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek cost includes the guest house once you arrive, homestay along the trek and camping during the course. (Dhaula to Sanglakanda)
Fooding – All meals from dinner at Dhaulaon Day 1 to breakfast at Ronti Gad on Day 8 are included in the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek cost. We ensure your food is apt for the trek without compromising on its nutritional value and taste.
Forest permits –The price of all necessary forest permits and allowances are included in the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek cost. These are required as the trek passes through many forests.
Medical equipments – First aid medical kit and medical equipment that include – oxygen cylinder, BP machine and oximeter are inclusive of the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek cost. Your safety is our first priority.
Trek leader – On the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek, we ensure to hire well qualified and experienced trek leaders who are specialists in mountaineering and trekking and their fee is inclusive of the trek cost.
Trek staff – Qualified and experienced trek staff are employed for the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek who include – cooks, porters, mules, and domestic- to help ensure you have a stress free journey.
Trekking equipment – This includes crampons, stretcher, ice ax, rope, all-weather tents, and sleeping bags that we will provide depending on the environmental conditions and requirements of the trek.

Services Excluded for the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek

Transport from pickup to basecamp and back:You can get shared taxis for to pick you up from Dehradun and drop you to Dhaula and back. A 5-6 seater vehicle will be available and you can share the cost with the other trekkers.
Food during Transit: You will have to pay for food while travelling from Dehradun to Sangla and back. There are many places along the way where good food is available.
Mules and Porters carrying personal luggage: Mules and porters are available if you need their service at any time. However, this fee is not included in the Black Peak Trek cost and will be additional.
Anything not mentioned under Services Included.

Payment policy

Option 1: The Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek cost can be paid by making an online transfer.
Option 2: The Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek cost can also be paid via cheque /demand draft (Mail us at [email protected]).

Note:If you choose Option 2, ignore the online registration procedure. Once you send us the email for the payment through cheque/demand draft, our team will get back to you immediately to help you through the complete payment process and respond to any of your queries.

Cancellation policy

The first step to cancel the trek is by emailing us at [email protected].
If the trek is canceled by us due to nature or an act of God like earthquake, flood, etc. or other political reasons, Discovery Hike will issue a Trek Voucher that can be redeemed for the same or a different trek within a time frame of one year.

If you wish to cancel your trek due to personal reasons, the following are the parameters under cancellation policy:

Backpack offloading policy

Cancellation prior to 25 days of the start of the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek – Full Refund

Cancellation between 20-25 days to the start of the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek – 50% refund.

Cancellation less than 20 days to the start of the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek – No refund

Backpack Offloading Policy
If you can’t carry your own backpack and require a porter for the whole trip, the following charges will apply:

If informed well in advance – Rs. 950 + 5% GST for the entire trek.

If informed on the day of trek – Rs. 340 per day + 5% GST

Note: The last moment backpack offloading amount needs to be paid at the base camp to the trek leader.

Transportation Policy for the borasu Pass Trek

The transportation charges for the trek amounts to Rs. 9000 for Tempo traveler and Rs. 5500 for the light vehicle (cab). The cab cost needs to be shared among the trekkers and should be paid directly to the driver (GST is only applicable on trek and not on transport).The cab can accommodate 5 to 6 trekkers while the Tempo traveler can accommodate 8 to 10 trekkers.

On- Trek Policy

If a trekker is sent down due to safety and/or health reasons by the trek leader, the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek cost will not be refunded to the participant.
If a trekker is expelled from the trek due to misbehavior, misconduct, threat and/or danger to another trekker, the trek fee will not be refunded to them.
If a trekker is caught consuming alcohol and/or other objectionable substances, they will be expelled from the trek with no refund.
If a trekker is found to be unfit during the course of the trek, he/she is legally bound not to be carried on the trek.
All trekkers must follow the instructions and guidelines set by Discovery Hike and submit the necessary documents to the trek leader at base camps.

NOTE: (Discovery hike has full rights to expel a participant/s during the trek if he/ she is deemed unfit by the criteria set by us).

Fitness Policy

If a trekker is sent down or asked to return for safety reasons, they must abide by it.
Discovery hike has employed experienced staff, who can deal with the high altitude conditions with expertise, however, they are not professional doctors.
If any participant is asked to return or taken to the hospital due to a worsening medical condition, then he/she needs to bear the hospital and medical expenses

Non liability : Discovery Hike is not responsible for your belongings if they are damaged or lost in any way.

The Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek Guide With Safety Measures

Risk of slip/skid-

The Har Ki Dun This is a moderate trek which will test the trekker’s skills and patience. While trekking in winter season, there is a possibility of slipping/ skidding as the track is covered with snow.

Safety measure

The following measures are arranged by the Discovery Hike to overcome these problems.
There will be a briefing about the risks of slipping/skidding under a trainer for the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek Guide, who will be your trek leader at the base camp. This is to ensure that the trekker is made aware of the do’s and don’ts on the trek.

Discovery Hike shall provide crampons to the trekker for safety on the winter trek. These crampons are specially designed to have a better grip on snow trails and minimize the risk of skidding up to 95%.
Trek leader will accompany the team and shall let the team members know about the situation of the trail and exercise caution when and if required.
While choosing your shoe, make sure it has a good grip as the entire Dhumdharkandi Pass trek distance demands good footing

Risk related to AMS:: Usually, there are chances of AMS on a high altitude trek. On the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek, as the altitude gradually moves up to 12,500ft, chances of AMS, HAPE and HACE are bound to occur.
The first day’s ascent to GorsonBugyal allows your body to get accustomed to the altitude and when you get to Chitrakatha is where you will have to watch for signs of altitude sickness. The other campsite is Khullara – to look out for symptoms of AMS. Most trekkers take this camp lightly, believing the highest altitude they could have reached is behind them. So be aware of your activities and how your body reacts to all of it.

Safety measure

Anticipating the above situation, there is a provision to start a course of DIAMOX from the day one as DIAMOX decreases the chances of AMS to a great extent.
The Dhumdharkandi Pass Guide is well trained to identify the symptoms of AMS and will immediately inform the trek leader for their advice. The trek leaders are equipped with high altitude medical kits and oxygen cylinders in order to help trekkers. If the situation is not under control, the trekker will have to descend from high campsite to a lower altitude.

Risk related to blister, cuts and cramps::

Blisters cuts and cramps are common occurrences along the Black Peak trek distance because of the walking or trekking on uneven trail.

Safety measures:

The trek leader will decide whether to proceed with the trek or stay, till the conditions are suitable. If conditions remain harsh and the situation worsens, for safety measures, the team shall have to descend. However, the company provides weather tents to meet the weather challenges.

Risk related to harsh weather conditions:

On the Black Peak trek, the altitude rises to 12,500 ft and the communication link gets weak and weaker as we proceed further, towards higher altitudes. And at a certain height we lose total communication and are consequently cut off from the rest of the world.

Safety measures:

We have alternative ways to maintain communication with the trekkers with the help of walkie -talkies. This will help us to communicate with different people at the different campsites.

Safety measure:

We have alternative ways to maintain the communication to the rest of the trekkers during the Har Ki Dun trek with the help of walkie-talkies.This will help us to communicate with different people at the different campsites.

Emergency/ immediate rescue There are chances of a situation becoming serious at any point of time due to any reason, like AMS, Cramps, illness, breathing congestion, etc. and the need for a trekker to be rescued immediately could arise.

Safety measure:

The team leader and trek staff will immediately mobilize the resources (porters, mules) accompanying the team as well as another team at a different campsite will help to rescue the trekker. Airlift in acute situation will be arranged as soon as possible.

Risk of Low Oxygen Level:

It is a scientific fact that the amount of oxygen reduces as we climber higher altitudes. As a result of that, we could face difficulties in breathing.

Safety Measures:

On the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek, there should be no cases of low oxygen levels but just in case, Discovery Hike has full provision to cope with such situations. If any trekker faces any problems related/ due to less oxygen levels, he/she should immediately inform the trek leader or descend to the lower campsite for immediate remedy. The leader and other staff carry an ample number of oxygen cylinders to be prepared for any such instances as well.

The Dhumdharkandi Pass review, as a whole, is beautiful and by the end of it, you’ll feel amazing. Your safety, during its entire course, is of utmost importance to us and your cooperation in this regard is highly solicited.

The Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek Cost

1: How can I reach sankari base camp?

Discovery Hike will arrange for transportation from Dehradun Railway Station at 06:30. The cab costs Rs.6,500 which can accommodate 5 to 6 trekkers while the tempo costs Rs.9,500. The cost needs to be shared amongst the trekkers and paid to the driver directly.

2: What is the Normal Temperature on the Trek?

The temperature varies from 10°C to 15°C during the day and -1°C to 5°C at night on the borasu Pass.

3: What is the accommodation like during the Trek? Can it be customized?

We generally have 3 trekkers sharing one tent on the hike. If you wish to stay two in a tent, you can do so at an additional cost of Rs.2000 per person. You will need to pay the trek amount via bank transfer if you choose the latter.

4: Which is the best season to go on the Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek?

If you want to walk on snow and experience the falling snow on your face, then May to June is the best period. If you are looking for lush green meadows, October to September is the best time for you.

5: Is this trek suitable for beginners?

No, this trek is only for those who have prior experience with high altitude treks. Physical fitness and BMI go in hand in hand and you will need to prepare in advance for the trek.

6: How will I be protected if there’s sudden rain on the trek or at the campsite?

While trekking, your poncho will keep you dry. All our tents like camping tents, Toilet tents, kitchen and dining tents are all waterproof and provide you with safe shelter in case of rain during the trek.Quechua stores have rain covers for bags which you must purchase to keep your bags dry in case of rain.

7: How much will I need to walk on the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek?

On average, you will need to walk around 5 to 6 km per day except on day 7 of the trek which is a14km walk day.

8: What is the provision for Toilets on the trek?

Discovery Hike usually installs 3 to 4 toilet tents on every campsite. The tents are gender specific and toilet fresheners are kept handy. We normally have dry pits on most of the campsites.

9: Is there an option to offload my backpack on this trek?

Yes, you can offload your backpack on the trek. The backpack offloading charges for the entire trek is Rs.2200 plus 5% GST. If you do not inform us in advance and ask for backpack offloading on reaching the basecamp, you can avail the service at a cost of Rs.350 per day plus 5% GST. Your backpack should not weigh more than 9kg. Please note that suitcases and trolleys are not allowed on the trek.

10: Who will accompany me on the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek from Discovery Hike?

You will be accompanied by our experienced trek leader and qualified staff during the entire Dhumdharkandi Pass Trek journey. Our staff are highly experienced and are trained to ensure that your journey is comfortable and safe.

11: What are the best shoes I can opt for to endure the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek conditions?

Quechua shoes are the best for the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek as they pay equal importance to grip and the comfort. Kindly read our blog for choosing the right shoes for you for high altitude Treks here

12: What kind of food will I be served on the trek?

We always serve a well-planned diet to our customers. The menu differs from altitude to altitude, keeping in mind the digestion of the trekkers. The items we serve for breakfast are boiled egg, parathas, poha, curd and Bournvita. For lunch, we serve daal, rice, papad, salads, curd, and sabjji (vegetable fry). For dinner, we serve daal, sabjji, chapatti, and dessert.

13: Does Discovery Hike allow clients to rent equipment? / What equipment can we rent from Discovery Hike?

Yes, we rent out trekking gear to our clients. You can rent equipment like Ponchos, Trekking poles, jackets, and shoes but you must inform us in advance so we can have the necessary equipment ready for you on the day of trek. Email us at [email protected] with your name, trek name, trek date, and the details of the gear you want to rent from us.

Note: Payment for these rental equipment will be taken at the basecamp.

14: How can I reach Shimla?

There are two buses that depart from Sangla – one in the evening at 18:30 and one in the morning at 6:30. You can take either of them to reach Shimla.

15: Is this Trek suitable for children?

Yes, it’s safe for children but only if they have experience of trekking in high altitudes and are physically fit for high altitude conditions. Other, easier, treks for children are the Chandrashila trek, the DayaraBugyal trek, the Brahmatal trek, or the Kedarkantha trek.

16: Does Discovery Hike arrange for stay in Sangla on last day of the trek?

No, we don’t provide stay in Sangla but if you wish to avoid overnight journey to Shimla and prefer day travel, then Discovery Hike can arrange for your stay in Sangla at an additional fee.

17: What is the best alternative for the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek?

The alternatives are the Roopkund and the Vasu Ki Tal treks – both reside at an altitude of more than 15000 ft. and if you don’t find availability for the borasu Pass trek, then you can opt for these treks.

18: Are Trekking poles necessary for the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek?

The Dhumdharkandi Pass is a moderate to difficult trek with a lot of ascents and descents and having a trekking pole really helps you maintain your balance and saves your energy by up to 60 percent. Read our blog to know why trekking pole is necessary.

19: How do I dress to combat the – 10°C weather on the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek?

You need to clothe yourself in 3 layers from head to toe. In the Himalayas, the nights gets colder and you need to layer yourself in such way that heat don’t escape from your body. You can also don a padded jacket which will help you resist the cold winds hitting your upper body. The 3 important layers are woolen wear, inner wear, and lower wear to keep your body warm during trek.

20: How much water do I need to carry while trekking?

We recommend carrying 2 liters of water during every trekking session.1 liter should be enough for all the days except day 8 while passing through Dhumdharkandi Pass but it’s best to be on the safe side and carry 2 liters of water with you.

21: Are there any documents I need to carry with me for the Dhumdharkandi Pass trek?

You will require the following documents:
1. Declaration form download from here
2. Medical certificate form

22: Can I smoke or consume alcohol on the trek?

Consumption of alcohol and smoking is prohibited on the trek. If you want to know why it’s a big NO from Discovery Hike, kindly read this blog or watch this video about its effects.

23: Do I need special medicines for the trek?

No. you can bring the medicines mentioned on our website, these medicines are life savers on high altitude treks. Download this form to get proper personal medical details which you need to carry.

24: Do I need to Trek every day or is there any rest?

You need to cover a distance of 5km – 6 km every day but on the 6th day, we have an Acclimatization Day for you so that there are less chances of AMS while gaining altitude from 12000 ft. to 15000 ft. on day 7.

25. Why should I choose Discovery Hike for this trek?

We are equipped with highly experienced Trek leaders and staff who take care of everything you might need while trekking at high altitudes. Our safety protocols have also disrupted the trekking segment. We also have with high altitude medical kits, walkie- talkies, oxygen cylinders, crampons, and gaiters along with custom made tents which can keep you safe even in high altitude conditions like Everest. All these factors help us maintain a high level of security and safety among trekkers that, we hope, will help you know that you are in safe hands even at harsh conditions. Read this blog to know more about our safety protocols.

26: What are the list of things I need to carry for the trek in a systematic form?

Click the link hereto get complete information