Gulabi Kantha Trek
Region
Uttarakhand
Duration
5 days
Max. Altitude
12000 ft
Trek Distance
28 kms
Grade
Moderate
Fixed Departures
November -2026
- 1 Nov - 5 Nov
- Open
- 6 Nov - 10 Nov
- Open
- 11 Nov - 15 Nov
- Open
- 16 Nov - 20 Nov
- Open
- 22 Nov - 26 Nov
- Open
- 27 Nov - 1 Dec
- Open
December -2026
- 3 Dec - 7 Dec
- Open
- 8 Dec - 12 Dec
- Open
- 13 Dec - 17 Dec
- Open
- 18 Dec - 22 Dec
- Open
- 23 Dec - 27 Dec
- Open
- 29 Dec - 2 Jan
- Open
January - 2027
- 4 Jan - 8 Jan
- Open
- 9 Jan - 13 Jan
- Open
- 14 Jan - 18 Jan
- Open
- 19 Jan - 23 Jan
- Open
- 25 Jan - 29 Jan
- Open
February - 2027
- 1 Feb - 5 Feb
- Open
- 6 Feb - 10 Feb
- Open
- 11 Feb - 15 Feb
- Open
- 16 Feb - 20 Feb
- Open
- 21 Feb - 25 Feb
- Open
- 26 Feb - 2 March
- Open
March - 2027
- 5 March - 9 March
- Open
- 10 March - 14 March
- Open
- 15 March - 19 March
- Open
- 20 March - 24 March
- Open
- 25 March - 29 March
- Open
₹9,000
₹10,200
+5% GST / Person
Highlights
- Services from Barkot to Hanuman chatti
- Pickup & Drop Location : Prince chowk, Dehradun
- Pickup : 06:30 AM | Drop: 06:30 PM–07:30 PM (weather/road dependent) Keep a buffer day and arrive a day early to avoid delays.
Add-ons
- Transport
- Rs 2000/- Per Person
- Offload
- Rs 1500/- Per Person
Add on information
- Insurance is mandatory.
- It is available for Indian citizens only.
- Non-Indians have to take insurance on their own.
- The cancellation policy will be implemented in accordance with the trek cancellation policy.
- Transportation: Dehradun to Dehradun is optional.
- Choose add-ons during booking. If missed, you can contact us to book the same.
- Book transportation at least 10 days before the trek.
- Cancellation 6 or more days before the start of the trip results in a 100% cash refund.
- Cancellation less than 4 days from the start of the trip results in a 50% cash refund.
- Cancellations made on the trip date are not eligible for a refund.
- Backpack offload is optional.
- Choose add-ons during booking. If missed, you can contact us to book the same.
- Book off-load at least 10 days before the trek.
- For offline bookings at the base camp, a variable convenience fee may apply. (It differs from trek to trek)
- Offload can't weigh more than 10kg. Offload should have a waterproof cover. Suitcases/trolleys will not be allowed.
- In the event that you choose to cancel your trek prior to the departure date, you will receive a full refund.
- Note : The bag weight should not exceed 10 kg.
Gulabi Kantha Trek Overview
- Trek Name : Gulabi Kantha Trek
- Days : 5
- Adventure : Trekking
- Base Camp : Barkot village
- Season : Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter
- Months : January | February | March | April | May | September | October | November | December |
- Country : India
- Altitude : 12000 ft
- Grade : Moderate
- Rail Head : Dehradun
- Stay : Guesthouse(Separate male & Female) & Swiss/cottage tent
- Food : Meals while on trek & guesthouse
- Location : Uttarakhand
- Distance : 28 km
- Trail Type : Forest-crossing trekking trail.
- Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, which is 28 km away from Dehradun
Why is Gulabi Kantha a Must do Trek?
- The name Gulabi Kantha is derived from the pink-rhododendron that cover the larger portion of the landscape. Seasonal wildflowers infuse vibrant colours to the trekking route.
- Gulabi Kantha is one of the most scenic and offbeat treks that offers a perfect blend of lush forests, serene meadows, stunning views, and incredible Himalayan peaks.
- One of the main attractions of the Gulabi Kantha trek is its vast alpine meadows. These green slopes create a stunning contrast against the surrounding mountains.
- The journey passes through forests of conifers, oak, and rhododendron. The changing vegetation makes the Gulabi Kantha trail visually interesting.
- One of the key distinguishing attributes of this trek is that it’s extremely peaceful and less crowded. Unlike other popular destinations, Gulabi Kantha offers a quieter Himalayan experience.
- Experience serene camping nights under a starlit sky, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the mountains.
Major Attractions
- Forest Path: Between Kandola Chhani and Seema Thatch lies a stretch of thick forest. The canopy of oak, maple, and rhododendron trees creates a cool, shaded walk where wildflowers bloom and birds call out through the silence. Along the way, trekkers can find wild berries and colorful flowers.
- Gulabi Kantha Meadow: It is the main attraction of the entire trek. A high-altitude land that glows in pink and purple shades during the blooming season. It’s a peaceful spot where trekkers can sit for hours, soaking in the stillness. You’ll feel like you’ve found your own hidden paradise.
- Gulabi Kantha Summit: The final climb opens up to some of the Himalayas’ greatest peaks. Swargarohini, Bandarpooch, Gangotri Massif, and Mt. Jaonli stand tall on the horizon. The 360° view from the summit leaves a lasting impression.
- Wildflowers and Alpine Vegetation: The trek is especially beautiful in spring and early summer. Rhododendrons and other Himalayan flowers bloom along the forests, meadows, and mountain slopes. The colourful flowers make Gulabi Kantha a great place for nature photographers and anyone interested in Himalayan plants.
- Snow-Covered Landscape in Winter: In winter, the trek takes on an entirely different appearance. Fresh snow blankets the meadows and surrounding slopes, turning the entire landscape into a stunning white alpine wonderland. The snow-covered trails, peaceful surroundings, and expansive mountain views create a magical winter experience.
Eligiblity for Gulabi Kantha Trek
-
Age Requirement : April to November : 9 years.
December to March : 11 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.
Gulabi Kantha Trek: Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Barkot drive
- Altitude: Barkot village: 1,220 m/ 4,003 ft
- Drive Distance : 135 km | 6-7 hrs
Day 2: Barkot to Hanuman Chatti drive & Trek to Kandola
- Altitude: Hanuman chatti 2,100 m/ 6,800 ft.
- Altitude: Kandola 2,700 m/ 8,900 ft.
- Trek Distance: 5 km | 2-3 hrs
Day 3: Kandola to Seema Thatch
- Altitude: Seema Thatch 3,474 m/ 11,400 ft
- Trek Distance: 6 km | 3-4 hrs
Day 4: Seema Thatch to Gulabi Kantha Summit & descend to Kandola
- Altitude:
- Seema Thatch: 3,474 m/ 11,400 ft
- Gulabi Kantha summit: 3,657 m/ 12,000 ft
- Trek distance: 12-13 km | 8-9 hours (Both sides)
Day 5: Kandola to Hanuman Chatti Trek & Drive to Dehradun
- Trek Distance: 5 km | 2 hrs
- Drive Distance: 180 km | 7-8 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.
Dehradun to Barkot drive
- Altitude : Barkot village: 1,220 m/ 4,003 ft
- Driving distance : 135 km | 7-8 hrs
- Accommodation : Guest house in Barkot
Your adventure begins with a scenic journey from Dehradun to the serene Barkot Village, the base for your trek and Yamunotri temple on the Char Dham circuit As the vehicle winds through the mountain roads, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas, with every turn presenting a new perspective of the towering peaks. This picturesque spot is not only a visual delight but also holds deep spiritual significance as a major pilgrimage site in Hinduism.
Throughout the journey, the vehicle will make stops, giving you the chance to take a break and enjoy breakfast or lunch at your own expense, all while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of the landscape. It’s a perfect way to start your trek, with scenic moments that set the tone for the adventure ahead.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with tea and a briefing of the trek ahead. The evening is free for you to relax and settle into your guesthouse. The Barkot village provides a peaceful ambiance surrounded by meadows and terraced fields. If time permits, you can explore the village or simply unwind. Stay the night in a comfortable guesthouse, where you’ll be well-rested for the days ahead.
Barkot to Hanuman Chatti Drive & Trek to Kandola
- Altitude : Kandola 2,700 m/ 8,900 ft
- Altitude : Hanuman chatti: 2,100 m/ 6,800 ft
- Trek distance : 5 km | 2-3 hrs
- Accommodation : Swiss Tents (Triple/ Quad sharing)
After an early breakfast, we drive from Barkot to Hanuman Chatti, the starting point of the trek. The scenic drive offers mesmerizing views of mountain villages, terraced fields, and river valleys. Your adventure truly begins today as you embark on a 5 km trek from Hanuman chatti to Kandola. The trek is relatively easy with gradual ascents, setting the perfect pace for the day ahead.
The trail starts as a well-defined rocky path, gradually ascending through the mountains. About 30 minutes into your trek, you’ll reach the first major viewpoint. An ideal spot to pause and soak in the breathtaking views of surrounding valleys. The trail continues into a beautiful forest of maple and rhododendron trees. If you happen to visit during the spring season, the rhododendrons will be in full bloom, painting the forest with striking hues of red.
After approximately another hour of trekking, you’ll arrive at Deoriatal, an alpine lake that creates an enchanting setting for your campsite. Nestled in a clearing surrounded by the towering Garhwal Himalayas, this spot is truly magical. The crown jewel is Mt. Chaukhamba, casting its reflection on the lake’s clear waters.
From the trail, you’ll also catch glimpses of the Chandrashila summit and the Tungnath temple perched below it. Tiny dots that come into focus with binoculars. Deoriatal is not only a place of stunning natural beauty but also an important Green-Trail hotspot, so remember to use your eco bags and help keep the area pristine by collecting any litter you find.
Upon reaching Deoriatal, you will be provided a hearty lunch. With the rest of the day at your leisure, take the chance to explore the serene surroundings and acclimatize. Birdwatchers will especially love this area, as it’s known for sightings of rare Himalayan bird species too. Stroll the trails around the campsite, let the mountain air fill your lungs, and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the Himalayas.
Kandola to Seema Thatch
- Altitude :
- Kandola chhani: 2,700 m/ 8,900 ft
- Seema Thatch: 3,474 m/ 11,400 ft.
- Trek Distance : 6 km | 2-3 hrs
- Accommodation : Alpine tents/Swiss Camp
Wake up to stunning mountain views and begin trekking towards Seema Thatch after breakfast. Today’s trail takes you deeper into the alpine wilderness, with the forest slowly opening into vast meadows blanketed in snow during winter.
As you ascend, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with panoramic Himalayan views unfolding around every turn. The trail offers a perfect blend of moderate challenge and incredible natural beauty, making it one of the most scenic stretches of the trek.
Reach Seema Thatch by afternoon and set up camp amidst pristine meadows. Spend the evening enjoying the tranquil surroundings and watching the sunset paint the mountains in golden hues. Dinner and overnight stay at camp.
Seema Thatch to Gulabi Kantha Summit & descend to Kandola
- Altitude :
- Seema Thatch: 3,474 m/ 11,400 ft
- Gulabi Kantha summit : 3,657 m/ 12,000 ft
- Trek Distance : 11-12 km | 8-9 hours (Both sides)
- Accommodation : Alpine tent
This is the most exciting day of the trek as we make our summit push to Gulabi Kantha Summit. Start early in the morning to witness the magical Himalayan sunrise.
The trail climbs steadily through snow-covered ridges and open alpine terrain before finally leading to the summit. Reaching the top is a truly unforgettable moment, rewarding trekkers with breathtaking 360-degree views of prominent Himalayan peaks including Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Black Peak, and several Garhwal ranges.
Spend some time at the summit capturing photographs and soaking in the incredible vistas before beginning the descent. Trek back via Seema Thatch and continue descending to Kandola for the night.
After an adventurous day, enjoy dinner and well-deserved rest at the campsite.
Kandola to Hanuman Chatti Trek & Drive to Dehradun
- Trek Distance : 5 km | 1-2 hrs
- Drive Distance : 180 km | 7-8 hrs
Today will be the last day of your journey in the mountains. In the morning you will wake up to splendid views and have breakfast, begin the descent from Kandola back to Hanuman Chatti. The downhill trek through forests offers a final chance to absorb the beauty of the trail.
Upon reaching Hanuman Chatti, board the vehicle for the return drive to Dehradun. As the mountains slowly fade into the plains, carry back unforgettable memories of this incredible Himalayan adventure.
Arrive in Dehradun by evening, marking the end of an unforgettable journey with WTM.
Health Awareness
- Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 100 beats per minute).
- Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 75 – 85, SYSTOLIC 100 - 130 mm Hg).
- Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).
- Should not have Liver and kidney issues.
- Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.
- No pacemaker implant.
- People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.
- If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.
Important Links
How to Reach:
Pick-Up Information
- It is essential for everyone to arrive at Dehradun (07:00 am)
- Pick-up Location - Prince chowk, Dehradun
- Once you have reached Dehradun, WTM will manage the rest of your travel arrangements, if you have opted for WTM’s pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.
Options to Reach Dehradun
There are multiple options to reach Dehradun. The journey from these locations to Dehradun is explained below:
- 1. If you are taking a bus, it is highly convenient to catch a direct overnight bus from Delhi. (ISBT, Kashmiri gate).
- 2. Reach the ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi and take a direct Volvo or sleeper bus to ISBT Dehradun, which takes around 5 to 6 hours to reach via the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway.
- ( We always recommend going for the govt. Buses over the private ones outside the bus station as based on the experience we have found that there are very high chances of delay involved with private buses. Also, govt. Buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, just make sure to reach Dehradun at least by 05:30 am. )
Drop-Off Information
- The designated drop-off point is Prince chowk, Dehradun
- Reach in Dehradun by 6:30 to 7:30 pm.
- Please consider planning your subsequent travel arrangements after 10:00 pm.
- Note - In July and August month always have a buffer day in your Itinerary due to the Monsoon.
- It's highly advisable to keep a buffer day in your travel plan. If the buffer day is not used, it can be used to explore Dehradun
- ( If you prefer to travel independently to Base camp and don't want to take WTM's pick-up service, you can either take a government bus or book a private cab from nearest locations such as Rishikesh or Haridwar.
Cost Terms
1. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):
- Guesthouse & Swiss/cottage tent(Male and Female separate on triple, quad, or hexa sharing).
2. Meals (Veg + Egg):
- All meals are from Barkot village to Hanuman chatti.
- Day 1 dinner to Day 4 dinner.
3. Support:
- 1 Mountaineering & First aid qualified professional expedition Leader.
- 1 Experienced high-altitude chef.
- Local experienced guides (Number of guides depending on the group size).
- Enough support staff.
4. Trek equipment:
- Ropes, Helmet, Ice axe, Harness, Gaiters & Microspikes(if required).
5. First aid:
- Medical kit, Stretcher, Oxygen cylinder, Blood pressure monitor, Oximeter, Stethoscope.
6. Mules/porters to carry the central luggage.
7. All necessary permits and entry fees, up to the amount charged for Indians.
8. Services from Barkot village to Hanuman chatti.
9. Trek completion certificate from WTM
- Insurance (For non-Indian Nationals, NRI or OCI card holders).
- Transportation: Dehradun to Dehradun
- Food during the transit.
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Mule or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charge, etc.
- Any extra costs incurred due to extension/change of the itinerary due to natural calamities roadblocks, vehicle breakdown, etc. factors beyond our control.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusion.
Trek Essentials
| Backpack with rain cover | (40 – 50 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
| Day pack with rain cover | 20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
| Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
| Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 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 box | 1 Nos |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
| Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
| T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 1 Half sleeves |
| Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
| Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
| Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
| Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
| Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Pair |
| Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Nos |
| Fleece Pant | 1 Nos |
| Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
| Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
| Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
| Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
| Sun cap | 1 Nos. (One that covers the neck as well) |
| Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
| Balaclava | 1 Nos |
| Buff / Neck-gaiters | 1 Nos. |
| Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
| Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle with good grip) |
| Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
| Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
| Woollen socks | 2 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 Pair (WTM provides when required) |
| Micro spikes | 1 Pair (WTM provides when required) |
| Sunscreen cream | 1 Nos |
| Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
| Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
| Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
| Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
| Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
| Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
| Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
Gallery
Cancellation Terms
To request a cancellation, please email us at info@walkingthemountains.com using your registered email ID.
Cancellations prior to 28 days from the start of the Trip
Refund Options
- 5% deduction of trek fee
- 100% trek fee cash voucher for any trip until six months from the date of last trek.
- Transfer your trek (any trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation between 27 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund Options
- 30% deduction of trek fee
- 100% trek fee cash voucher for same trip till one year
- 85% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
Cancellation between 14 days and 8 days to the start of the Trip
Refund Options
- 50% deduction of trek fee
- 80% trek fee cash voucher for same trip till six months.
- Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch
- Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation less than 7 days to the start of the trek.
Refund Options
- No cash refund
- 20% trek fee cash voucher for the same trip until six months.
Itinerary and Modifications
- WTM reserves the right to modify, shorten, or cancel any part of the Trip due to transportation delays, weather, health emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances including Force Majeure.
Cancellations and Refunds
- No refunds or vouchers, partial or otherwise, shall be provided for voluntary withdrawal, non-utilisation of services, or removal from the Trip.
- If WTM cancels the Trip before arrival at the designated pick-up point due to unforeseen circumstances or Force Majeure, the Participant may choose from:
- An alternate Trip/date.
- A credit voucher valid for one (1) year.
- Transfer to another Trip, with cost differences payable by the Participant.
- If the Trip is abandoned post-arrival at the designated pick-up point, no cash refund or voucher shall be issued. The Trek Again Policy may apply at WTM’s discretion.
- WTM shall not be liable for any associated travel costs such as flights, accommodation, or visa fees.
Force Majeure
- Events beyond its control including but not limited to earthquakes, landslides, strikes, curfews, war, pandemic, government restrictions, heavy rainfall or snowfall, windstorms, road blockages, trail disruption, or withdrawal of permits, WTM shall not be held liable for any cancellation, delay, or service modification caused by Force Majeure.
FAQ’S
Gulabi Kantha trek is famous for its untouched alpine meadows, colorful wildflowers, and beautiful Himalayan views. In spring and early summer, the trail bursts into colour with blooming wildflowers, especially rhododendrons in beautiful shades of pink and red. The summit shows a spectacular 360° view of famous peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and the Gangotri massif.
You can find snow on the Gulabi Kantha primarily during the winter months, from December to February. The trails are often covered in snow, adding to the challenge and beauty of the trek.
A moderate level of physical fitness is required for this Trek. Trekkers should be comfortable walking 6-7 hours a day on varied terrain. Prior experience in trekking or regular physical exercise like jogging, running, or cycling can be beneficial.
The terrain is diverse from forests of oak, maple, and rhododendron to wide, grassy meadows and ridgeline paths. The weather is generally cool and pleasant in spring and autumn, while summers can be warmer during the day but cold at night. Sudden temperature is very often at high altitudes.
Washroom facilities on the Gulabi Kantha Trek are basic. Attached toilets at guest house and at campsites, there are usually portable toilets or dry pit toilets available. Trekkers should carry personal hygiene kits and be prepared for limited facilities in remote areas.
The best alternative treks include Kedarkantha, Har Ki Dun, Brahmatal, Valley of Flowers, and Kedarkantha. These treks have stunning views, beautiful landscapes, and are suitable for different experience levels.
Yes, offloading services can be arranged at additional cost for the Gulabi Kantha Trek. Trekkers can arrange to have their heavy backpacks transported by porters or mules, allowing them to trek with lighter day packs.
Accommodation on the Gulabi Kantha Trek typically involves guest house stays/alpine camping in high-quality tents. The campsites are set in picturesque locations, offering basic amenities and comfortable sleeping arrangements.
Gulabi Kantha trek can be done in two key seasons: spring to early summer (April-June), autumn (September-November), and winter (November-February).
- Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and fresh trails after snowmelt.
- Summer is full of green meadows, wildflowers, and grazing cattle.
- Winter covers the entire trail in snow. Perfect for those who enjoy snowy views and less crowd.
