Lamkhaga pass trek
- Region: Garhwal Himalayas
- Duration: 07 Days
- Altitude: 17335 Ft
- Best Time: Mid May to June and Early Sep to Mid October
- Grade: Moderate
Acting as a bridge between Harsil in Garhwal and Sangla in Himachal Pradesh, the Lamkhaga Pass at an elevation of 5,420 meters, is one of the high altitude mountain passes in the Garhwal Himalayan region. It is surrounded by several mountains those towering at an elevation above 5,000 to 6,000 meters. The trek to Sangla via Lamkhaga Pass is one of the toughest treks in the Indian Himalayan region that is located in the Garhwal Himalaya. It crosses through the dense forest of Deodar, Pine and Bhojpatra and then some downhill and uphill trail along the Jalindragad River to the meadows of Kyarkoti. The journey encounters through numerous alpine meadows, moraines and small gushing streams followed by several secluded hamlets. It also acquaint you with Baspa valley. Most of the trail being journeyed along the Indo – Tibetan border, one has to get an Inner Line Permit. The best time to hit the tracks is during the peak summer season and autumn.
The Lamkhaga Pass Trek starts from Harsil, which is approximately 265 kilometers up from Rishikesh. From Harsil the journey leads to Kyarkoti, which is a 14 kilometers trek and drops you at an elevation of 3,820 meters. Hence one could expect a steep climb right away from the first day of the trail. From Kyarkoti, the trek moves through a varied landscape and expunges to the glaciated tracks and lead to Lamkhaga Pass Base Camp at an altitude of 4,700 meters. Thereafter, the trail heads upwards to Lamkhaga Pass, which is quite tough trail, and thence moves down to Gundar at 4,400 meters. From Gundar the trail continues down to Dumti at 4,200 meters and later heads to Rani Kanda, which is a 9 kilometers trek from Dumti. The Lamkhaga Pass trekking tour leads off at Chitkul via Nagasthi and later wheels to Shimla via Sangla.
Day 1: Chitkul to Dumti
A vehicle can drop the group from Chitkul to ahead of Rani Kanda. The trek from there is of about 8 to 9 km. The trails pass through flower filled meadows with waterfalls. We may have to cross several brooks.
Day 2: Dumti to Gundar (4,400 m)
We follow the Baspa river on its true right bank. An early start is recommended to avoid turbulence in the stream. Gundar is a grazing meadow and we camp here.
Day 3: Gundar (4,400 m) to Lamkhaga Pass Base Camp in Kinnaur (4,800 m)
On this day, the trail becomes devoid of vegetation. We walk mostly over rocks, snow and ice to reach the basecamp. The camp is usualy over snow here.
Day 4: Lamkhaga Pass basecamp (Kinnaur) to Lamkhaga Pass basecamp (Gangotri Side) via Lamkhaga Pass (5,282 m)
Today could be a tough day depending on the ice conditions. The trail is marked by chortens (religious stone mounds), and crosses snow slopes between two ribs and possible crevasses. The climb is fairly steep and we may require a safety rope. The views from the pass are truly rewarding. The rivers flowing on either side of the pass flow into the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. The path on the other side is also steep and a rope may be needed again.
Day 5: Lamkhaga Pass Base Camp to Kyarkoti (3,820 m)
On this day, we cross the river to the true left of the valley. The landscape changes again and vegetation fills it up. The lovely meadow at Kiarkoti makes for a beautiful campsite.
Day 6: Kyarkoti to Harsil (2,400 m), drive to Gangnani
The trail continues along the river Jalandhari through dense forest, waterfalls and streams, which we need to cross. We either camp at Harsil or drive for about 30 min to Gangnani and stay in a guest house. Gangnani is known for its natural hot water spring baths.
Day 7: Harsil/Gangnani to Dehradun drive
This is the final day of the trip and we drive back to Dehradun.
Hiking Shoes for the Lamkhaga pass Trek
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Lamkhaga 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 Lamkhaga pass Trek. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Lamkhaga 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 Lamkhaga 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 Rupin 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 Lamkhaga pass 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 Lamkhaga pass trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Lamkhaga 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 Lamkhaga 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 Lamkhaga 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 borasa 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 Lamkhaga pass trek map and ways to avoid them.
Lamkhaga pass trek
- Region: Garhwal Himalayas
- Duration: 07 Days
- Altitude: 17335 Ft
- Best Time: Mid May to June and Early Sep to Mid October
- Grade: Moderate
Acting as a bridge between Harsil in Garhwal and Sangla in Himachal Pradesh, the Lamkhaga Pass at an elevation of 5,420 meters, is one of the high altitude mountain passes in the Garhwal Himalayan region. It is surrounded by several mountains those towering at an elevation above 5,000 to 6,000 meters. The trek to Sangla via Lamkhaga Pass is one of the toughest treks in the Indian Himalayan region that is located in the Garhwal Himalaya. It crosses through the dense forest of Deodar, Pine and Bhojpatra and then some downhill and uphill trail along the Jalindragad River to the meadows of Kyarkoti. The journey encounters through numerous alpine meadows, moraines and small gushing streams followed by several secluded hamlets. It also acquaint you with Baspa valley. Most of the trail being journeyed along the Indo – Tibetan border, one has to get an Inner Line Permit. The best time to hit the tracks is during the peak summer season and autumn.
The Lamkhaga Pass Trek starts from Harsil, which is approximately 265 kilometers up from Rishikesh. From Harsil the journey leads to Kyarkoti, which is a 14 kilometers trek and drops you at an elevation of 3,820 meters. Hence one could expect a steep climb right away from the first day of the trail. From Kyarkoti, the trek moves through a varied landscape and expunges to the glaciated tracks and lead to Lamkhaga Pass Base Camp at an altitude of 4,700 meters. Thereafter, the trail heads upwards to Lamkhaga Pass, which is quite tough trail, and thence moves down to Gundar at 4,400 meters. From Gundar the trail continues down to Dumti at 4,200 meters and later heads to Rani Kanda, which is a 9 kilometers trek from Dumti. The Lamkhaga Pass trekking tour leads off at Chitkul via Nagasthi and later wheels to Shimla via Sangla.
Day 1: Chitkul to Dumti
A vehicle can drop the group from Chitkul to ahead of Rani Kanda. The trek from there is of about 8 to 9 km. The trails pass through flower filled meadows with waterfalls. We may have to cross several brooks.
Day 2: Dumti to Gundar (4,400 m)
We follow the Baspa river on its true right bank. An early start is recommended to avoid turbulence in the stream. Gundar is a grazing meadow and we camp here.
Day 3: Gundar (4,400 m) to Lamkhaga Pass Base Camp in Kinnaur (4,800 m)
On this day, the trail becomes devoid of vegetation. We walk mostly over rocks, snow and ice to reach the basecamp. The camp is usualy over snow here.
Day 4: Lamkhaga Pass basecamp (Kinnaur) to Lamkhaga Pass basecamp (Gangotri Side) via Lamkhaga Pass (5,282 m)
Today could be a tough day depending on the ice conditions. The trail is marked by chortens (religious stone mounds), and crosses snow slopes between two ribs and possible crevasses. The climb is fairly steep and we may require a safety rope. The views from the pass are truly rewarding. The rivers flowing on either side of the pass flow into the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. The path on the other side is also steep and a rope may be needed again.
Day 5: Lamkhaga Pass Base Camp to Kyarkoti (3,820 m)
On this day, we cross the river to the true left of the valley. The landscape changes again and vegetation fills it up. The lovely meadow at Kiarkoti makes for a beautiful campsite.
Day 6: Kyarkoti to Harsil (2,400 m), drive to Gangnani
The trail continues along the river Jalandhari through dense forest, waterfalls and streams, which we need to cross. We either camp at Harsil or drive for about 30 min to Gangnani and stay in a guest house. Gangnani is known for its natural hot water spring baths.
Day 7: Harsil/Gangnani to Dehradun drive
This is the final day of the trip and we drive back to Dehradun.
Hiking Shoes for the Lamkhaga pass Trek
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Lamkhaga 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 Lamkhaga pass Trek. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Lamkhaga 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 Lamkhaga 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 Rupin 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 Lamkhaga pass 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 Lamkhaga pass trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Lamkhaga 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 Lamkhaga 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 Lamkhaga 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 borasa 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 Lamkhaga pass trek map and ways to avoid them.