A walk through hamlets and lush green meadows, wading through fresh snow, hoping to not get lost in the woods, camping under billion stars, gazing at the milky way galaxy, and sleeping in a cylindrical bag.
While some people live like this everyday, some just dream and some succumb to their fears and never take the first step. If you are an adventurer by heart and want to experience trekking, if you want to enjoy winter away from the hustle bustle of the tourists, here is a 4 day winter trek that you can do yourself.
In recent times adventure companies have made the escapade more approachable, more luxurious and less affordable. Without burning a hole in your pocket, here is how you can do this trek. All you need is a rucksack, one pair of warm clothes(trust me, you will not be changing), a tent and instant food. Tali top is a lake en-route to the more famous Kuari Pass, in the Chamoli district of Himalayas. Most trekkers flock to Kuari pass during winters for the splendid view but not far away in an opposite direction is Tali lake 6 kms from Auli.
Day 1: Haridwar to Joshimath 6700 ft
The trek starts from Joshimath in devbhoomi Uttarakhand. The easiest way to reach there is by taking a taxi from Rhishikesh or Haridwar. The total distance of 250 kms will take 12 hours of drive with breaks. For most part, the roads are well maintained except for the occasional maintenance by BRO(Border Road Organisation). You will get the views of Devprayag (confluence of Bhagirathi river and Alaknanda river), Rudrapryag (confluence of Mandakini river and Alaknanda river) and Karnprayag (confluence of Pindar river and Alaknanda river) on the way.
Day 2: Joshimath to Gulling Top 9600 ft
Starting from Joshimath you will reach Dhak village after 12 kms drive of twists and turns (book a taxi from Joshimath to reach Dhak). From this point you will climb 6 kms walking through the villages of Tugasi and Gulling. It will be a tough climb. The first day of the trek is always the most difficult. It is the day you understand your body and set the pace for the next few days. With average walking pace you will reach Gulling in 4 to 5 hours. You will go through open meadows, villages and tiny streams. As there are no canteens or shops, you will have to carry packed food from Joshimath. You will find plenty of water resources on the way.
Day 3: Gulling Top to Tali Forest Camp 11000 ft
With the warmth of the sun gently brushing your skin, you start your trek to the Tali Forest camp. The beauty of the hills is how extreme weather can co-exist together. One minute it is blazing hot and the next it is cold as a cucumber. The route takes you away from the brown lands into the world of Narnia. The walk is 4kms and will take about 3 to 4 hours. If lucky you will get to witness a good amount of snow. Keep your crampons and gaiters handy.
500 ft above the forest camp is the Tali lake. An hour walk to the lake via the thick rhododendron forest and suddenly it opens up to a huge meadow. On to your right you will see mighty mountains glowing in the sunlight, some brown and some white. Dronagiri, Nanda Devi, Pangarchula peak, Nanda gunti, Garud, Lampak, Rishi, Chang Bang, Burmal are some of the peaks you can spot. There, right below, standing still and frozen, is the Tali lake. This view is something that will make you forget all your troubles, make your heart skip a beat and just breathe.
Day 4: Tali forest camp - Joshimath via Auli 9680 ft
The trek back to Joshimath via Auli is drop dead gorgeous passing through the white mountains, knee deep snow and a breathtaking view. The walk is 6 kms to reach Auli. You can take the cable car from Auli to Joshimath which will cost you around 750 INR or you can walk all the way to the main road (extra 3 kms) and take a taxi from there to Joshimath.
Note:
Things to carry - As this is a winter trek carry warm layers, thermals, tracks, pull over, down jacket, gloves, socks and toiletries
Food - Take a porter and guide with you who will take care of all the necessities.
Camp - Carry a good tent and sleeping bag
Guide - It is strictly suggested to hire a local guide
Permission - Permisssions should be taken from Joshimath, the office of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Nanda Devi National Park
This 3 days trek is a perfect long weekend plan. You will get mesmerizing view throughout the trek and all that at a perfect altitude. Do some push ups, pack your bags and leave.
Bon Voyage!
Signing Off rucksackdiaries
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