The state of Uttarakhand in Northern India is the home to some of the highest mountain peaks in the world. These peaks are the part of the Kumaon Himalayas and the Garhwal Himalayas. The state, because of these peaks, has become a favored destination formountain expedition in India.Peaks like Nanda Devi East (7434 M), Trishul-I, Nanda Kot (6861 M), Panchchuli Peaks and the Nanda Khat have especially been on the forefront among many of the other peaks which facilitate mountaineering in India.
The areas surrounding these peaks have become an important holiday destination in India. Various tour operators across Indian and the world provide India tour packages to these destinations so that one can enjoy experiencing the Mighty Peaks of Kumaon.
1. Nanda Devi East
Nanda Devi East (7434 M) is a seven thousand plus peak situated in the Chamoli district of Garhwal Himalayas and one of the sought after tourist destinations. It is also a favorite destination for adventure sports enthusiasts who look for various options of mountain expedition in India and mountaineering in India. Generally, the journey for this trek starts from Kathgodam and the trekkers or mountaineers proceed to Munsiyari which itself is a holiday destination of India. Now, gradually as one proceeds further he or she gets the joy of experiencing the adventurous mountain trekking in India. Trekking through the Bogudiar and Ghangar the mountaineers then proceed through the Pachu Glacier to reach the base camp. Mountaineers can now choose to move forward to ascend the peak or they can simply return back from the base camp.
2. Trishul-I
Trishul-I is another seven thousand plus peak and this is situated in the Bagheswar district in Kumaon Himalayas. The name of the peak comes from a group of three peaks of which the mentioned peak is the tallest and the three peaks form what looks like a trident which is called Trishul in Sanskrit, Hindi and many other languages which have their origin from Sanskrit. For an expedition to this peak, the journey generally starts from Haridwar via Nandprayag then the mountaineers move onward to Sitel and then to Base camp at Home Kund. Either mountaineer returns from here or attempts the summit climb.
3. Nanda Kot
Nanda Kot (6861 M) is a six thousand plus peak and is situated in the Pithoragarh district of Kumaon Himalayas. The peak is a part of the Nanda Devi system and lies just outside the peaks that encircle the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. The journey to this massive peak generally starts from Kathgodam and onward to Bageshwar. Further journey through Loharkhet, Khati and Phurkia one reaches the base camp at Dwali post which one can attempt a peak ascent.
4. Panchachuli Peaks
Panchachuli Peaks are a group of five famous snow clad peaks located in the Pithoragarh district of Kumaon Himalayas. These lovely peaks are clearly visible from Munsiari and from here you can get a great panorama shot of the entire mountain range. However, the glorious mythological and historical significance of the peaks cannot be overlooked. Mythology has it that the five Pandavas from the great oriental (Indian) epic, Mahabharata, cooked food on the top of these five peaks hence the name, Panchchuli meaning five cooking hearths. The journey to these amazing peaks begins at Kathgodam and ends at Panchchuli base camp via Darchula and Nagling.
5. Nanda Khat
Nanda Khat (6611m) this mighty peak stands strong in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand and is an integral part of the Kumaon Himalayas. This peak is also known as the “Bed of Nandadevi”. The most commonly taken route to climb up this peak is through the lovely Pindari valley. The route is extremely beautiful and truly a treat for the eyes and all the other senses. While en route to the peak you will be able to behold the majestic Mt. Trishul, Mt. Devtoli, Mt. Nanda Devi and other lovely peaks.
Various India tour packages are offered by tour operators and many towns and cities in the vicinity of these peaks have become places of special tourist spots. Trekking in India is also a very prominent attraction and those who love to hike or trek come to these parts of India.
Tips to make the most of this trekking expedition
One of the most important things that a mountaineer or trekker must remember when attempting to ascend any of these peaks is acclimatization. Low oxygen and high altitudes must be carefully considered. AMS or acute mountain sickness can happen at any time. Further complications like HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) and HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) can also happen and must be taken care of.
Once proper acclimatization of these low oxygen and high altitudes conditions is done then such journeys are safe. The cold also is a major factor and proper protective clothing is important to safeguard oneself from frostbites and exposure.
The beauty of these places makes them some of the most sought after peaks in the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayas for trekkers and mountaineers.
Also Read:- Top Mountain Expedition Sites in Garhwal Himalayas