Rhododendron Blossom Trek in Uttarakhand

Description

Step aside, Japanese Cherry Blossom; behold the Himalayan Rhododendron Blossom! An awe-inspiring spectacle unfolds between mid-February and the first week of April each year. Regrettably (or shall we say, fortunately?!), this natural marvel isn’t easily accessible. To witness the full splendor, one must trek through the expansive broad-leaved temperate forests of the Himalayas.

Embark on a meticulously planned journey that takes you through one of Uttarakhand’s most stunning and relatively unexplored regions, abundant with vibrant rhododendrons. Visit three lesser-known high-altitude meadows—Dhakuri, Jaikuni Bugyal, and Bajralingadhar—in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand. Traversing through temperate Himalayan oak and rhododendron forests, the trek promises a captivating blend of floral blooms and breathtaking views. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience that will linger in your memories for years to come.

Itinerary

• Day 1 Kathgodam - Petshal / Kasar Devi

  Our vehicle will pick you up at Kathgodam at noon and drive you to Petshal/Kasar Devi, about 100 km away. You should reach at around 4 pm. Settle into a comfortable heritage property there.

• Day 2 Petshal - Dhoor Wachham (2250 m) - Dhakuri (2650 m)

  The route from Petshal to Dhoor is via Bageshwar. Be prepared for a bumpy ride for the last one hour or so! From Dhoor, the 4.5 km hike to Dhakuri should take around 3 hours. It is a gentle downhill hike for the first 1.5 km and then a gradual ascent all the way up to Dhakuri. The campsite is situated in a beautiful valley, surrounded by dense oak forests, and has great views of the snow-capped peaks of southern Nanda Devi sanctuary. The accommodation here will be basic but clean and comfortable.

• Day 3Dhakuri - Karmi Chiltha temple (3000 m) - Dhakuri

  Karmi Chiltha is a temple dedicated to goddess Nanda Devi. The gentle climb to this little-known temple is worth it! The route is dotted with rhododendrons of many hues and the temple offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan giants. The total trekking distance for the day is 3+3 km

• Day 4Dhakuri - Jaikuni Bugyal (3100 m)

  The trek to Chiltha Mai at 3200m (another temple dedicated to goddess Nanda Devi) is about 4.5 km long and the climb is fairly steep. From Chiltha, it is almost a level 2.5 km walk up to Jaikuni bugyal, a high altitude meadow that offers stunning view of the Kumaon Himalayas from Trishul in the west, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and all the way up to Panchachuli in the east. The entire day’s trek is through an enchanted floral paradise.

• Day 5Jaikuni Bugyal - Bajralingdhar / Jaikuni Bugyal

  Bajralingdhar is yet another little-known campsite with stunning views. Today’s gentle trek is the longest of the trip, taking one through several meadows and dense rhododendron forests with mesmerizing blooms. Post lunch, return to Jaikuni Bugyal

• Day 6Jaikuni Bugyal - Supi / Kausani

  The easy 6 km trek to Supi village (2100 m) is again through a rhododendron and oak forest. Post lunch at Supi, embark on a 4 hour drive to Kausani. Check into a comfortable resort.

• Day 7Kausani - Kathgodam

  The drive to Kathgodam should take around 4 to 5 hours. Start early in the morning so that you can catch the afternoon Shatabdi back to Delhi.

Inclusions

• – 2 nights stay in a lodge at Dhakuri
• – 2 nights stay in tents at Jaikuni Bugyal
• – 1 night stay in a resort in Kausani
• – 1 night stay in a heritage property in Petsal / or a resort in Kasar Devi
• – All meals starting with dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 7
• – Ground transport – Kathgodam to Kathgodam
• – Porterage for personal luggage – one 12 kg bag per person
• – Trekking permits
• – Guide charges

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