Trek Duration: 6–7 Days
Maximum Altitude: 14,816 ft (4,517 m)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Time to Visit: May–June and September–October
Location: Near Joshimath, Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
Why Choose the Bagini Glacier Trek?
The Bagini Glacier Trek is one of the lesser-known yet spectacular treks in Uttarakhand, offering an unforgettable experience with close-up views of some of the tallest Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Changbang. Ideal for trekkers seeking raw beauty without the crowds.
Key Highlights
- Close views of Rishi Pahar, Changbang, and Trishul
- High-altitude camping with panoramic Himalayan scenery
- Remote trail with rich alpine biodiversity
- Passes through traditional Garhwali villages
Why Choose the Bagini Glacier Trek?
The Bagini Glacier Trek is one of the lesser-known yet spectacular treks in Uttarakhand, offering an unforgettable experience with close-up views of some of the tallest Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Changbang. Ideal for trekkers seeking raw beauty without the crowds.
Key Highlights
Why Choose the Bagini Glacier Trek?
The Bagini Glacier Trek is one of the lesser-known yet spectacular treks in Uttarakhand, offering an unforgettable experience with close-up views of some of the tallest Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Changbang. Ideal for trekkers seeking raw beauty without the crowds.
Key Highlights
- Close views of Rishi Pahar, Changbang, and Trishul
- High-altitude camping with panoramic Himalayan scenery
- Remote trail with rich alpine biodiversity
- Passes through traditional Garhwali villages
Why Choose the Bagini Glacier Trek?
The Bagini Glacier Trek is one of the lesser-known yet spectacular treks in Uttarakhand, offering an unforgettable experience with close-up views of some of the tallest Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Changbang. Ideal for trekkers seeking raw beauty without the crowds.
Key Highlights
- Close views of Rishi Pahar, Changbang, and Trishul
- High-altitude camping with panoramic Himalayan scenery
- Remote trail with rich alpine biodiversity
- Passes through traditional Garhwali villages
Trek Itinerary Overview
Base Camp: Jumma (reachable via Joshimath)
| Day | Route | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drive from Rishikesh to Joshimath | 6,150 ft |
| 2 | Joshimath to Jumma, trek to Ruing | 8,900 ft |
| 3 | Ruing to Dronagiri Village | 11,800 ft |
| 4 | Dronagiri to Bagini Base Camp | 12,500 ft |
| 5 | Visit Bagini Glacier & back to Base | 14,816 ft |
| 6 | Trek back to Jumma, drive to Joshimath | — |
| 7 | Drive to Rishikesh | – |
Trail Description
Ruing to Dronagiri Village
A scenic route that passes through coniferous forests and remote mountain hamlets. Dronagiri is an ancient Himalayan village with strong mythological connections.
Dronagiri to Bagini Base Camp
A steady climb through alpine terrain. Stunning views of Hathi Parvat and Ghori Parvat begin to dominate the skyline.
Bagini Glacier Excursion
A steep early morning trek takes you to the glacier viewpoint. From here, you get an unobstructed view of the glacier and the towering Changbang Peak.
Camping and Terrain
- Campsites are remote with basic tent accommodations
- Trail is a mix of forest, rocky paths, and moraines
- Snow may be present in early season treks
Environmental Responsibility: All trekkers are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the fragile mountain ecosystem.
Essentials for the Bagini Glacier Trek
What to Pack:
- Trekking boots with good grip
- Warm layers including down jacket
- UV sunglasses, sunscreen, trekking poles
- Sleeping bag (rated for -5°C to -10°C)
- Personal medical kit and water purification tablets
Documents Required:
- Government-issued ID
- Inner Line Permit (can be arranged at Joshimath)
- Medical fitness certificate (recommended)
Reaching the Base Camp
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railhead: Haridwar
Road Access: Rishikesh → Joshimath → Jumma
From Jumma, the trek begins with a short hike to Ruing village.
Ideal For
- Trekkers with basic to moderate experience
- Himalayan photographers and nature lovers
- Travelers seeking less-commercial, peaceful trails
Not suitable for beginners without proper fitness and acclimatization.
Final Thoughts
The Bagini Glacier Trek offers a unique Himalayan experience far from the popular routes. It’s not just about the glacier—it’s the journey through Garhwali villages, the silence of alpine meadows, and the powerful presence of towering Himalayan peaks.
For trekkers looking to explore a quieter, equally majestic side of Uttarakhand, Bagini Glacier is a top choice.
Bagini Glacier Trek: