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Ranthan Kharak Trek

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  • Safety
  • Small groups - (6-12)
  • Experience nature
  • Sustainable experiences

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  • 7 Days/6 Nights
  • Moderate
  • 12,887 ft./3928 m
  • 12 Participants
  • Summer and Autumn
  • Uttarakhand

Ranthan Kharak Trek Overview

Ranthan Kharak trek is a hidden gem snuggled amidst the untraversed region of Kumaon in Uttrakhand. The trek spans seven days and provides an experience filled with enchanting trails, virgin forests, awe-inspiring mountain views and dreamlike meadows. It is a perfect escape into the wilderness for adventure seekers wishing to immerse themselves in a serene embrace of nature. Ranthan Kharak is an offbeat trail offering something exquisite every day of your trek.

Imagine a trek through towering mountains, including the country’s highest Mt Nanda Devi and majestic Panchachuli Peaks. The forest sections boast diverse flora and fauna featuring a variety of trees and birds, an adventurous ascent to the top. Experience an adventurous ascent to the Ranthan Top,  accompanied by the grandeur of the mighty Himalayas. 

The trek introduces you to Kharak, clearings or pastures of Kumaon. The experience of trekking to Ranthan Top is enhanced when you camp at two beautiful clearings overlooking the breathtaking views of the mountains. The campsite is surrounded by dense forests offering you tranquil bliss. 

You’ll find yourself dreaming of meadows covered in lush green hues, with a rolling carpet of soft grass that compels you to walk barefoot. The 

The trek begins in Gagoni village in Kumaon and traverses diverse landscapes. As you traverse a solitary trail, the tranquillity of the forest allows you to listen to your thoughts as you navigate the pristine wilderness onward to the Ranthan Kharak trek, a hidden gem of Kumaon.

Inclusions

  • Meals 
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners (Day 1 Dinner to Day 6 Dinner)
  • Accommodation 
    • Tents, Homestays/Dorms
    • Cloakroom Charges 
  • Highly Experienced Leaders and Guides 
    • Trained and Qualified Guides
    • Certified Outdoor Leaders
  • Permits
    • National Parks and Sanctuaries
    • Forest Permits and Entry fees 
  • Camping Equipment
    • Kitchen Tent
    •  Toilet Tent
    • Dome Tents 
    • Sleeping Bags
    • Mattresses
  • Technical Equipment
    • Wilderness Medical Kit
    • Climbing Rope 
    • Climbing Accessories
    • Ice Axe
    • Microspikes
    • Oxygen Cylinder
    • BP Meter
    •  Oximeter, Thermometer etc.

Exclusions 

  • Travel cost from pick-up point to and from the basecamp (Kathgodam to Gogina cab fare)
  • Transit meals (Day 1 and Day 7)
  • Personal expenses 
  • Offloading charges 
  • Cost incurred due to change in the itinerary 
  • Additional services  (including mules, assistance, health-related support etc.)
  • Anything not mentioned in the Inclusions list. 

Ranthan Kharak Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Kathgodam to Gogina (1,818 ft to 6,415 ft)

For the Ranthan Kharak Trek, the team travels to Gogina, a quaint village in Bageshwar district. Gogina is around 235 km from Kathgodam. Kathmodam is the nearest railway station for this trek. It takes around 10 hrs through picturesque mountain roads to reach the starting point.

Day 2 : Gogina to Namik (6,415 ft to 7,390 ft)

Ranthan Kharak trek begins today from Gogina. The team will kick off their journey right after breakfast. It will take around 6 to 7 hours to reach the first campsite at Namik. You will traverse a beautiful trail, cross a suspension bridge and navigate an easy-to-moderate trail. The sleepy village of Namik enwrapped in floating clouds welcomes you. Namik Campsite is a tranquil hamlet with a few houses surrounded by lush greenery. ( Trek Distance: 6.5 km  and Trek Duration: 6 hours )

 

Day 3 : Namik Campite to Bajimanian Kharak (7,390 ft to 9,690 ft)

You will discover the first clearing of the trek today. As you navigate through a dense forest section, remember to soak in the enchanting sound of nature. 

On the way to the campsite, you will come across Balchan Kund, a sacred lake, revered by villagers. The lake is also known to host migratory birds. 

A moderate climb takes you to the clearings of Bajimanian,  a vast expanse of pasture surrounded by magnificent views. You will camp here for the night. Waking up to gleaming mountains right before you is an experience to last a lifetime. The campsite is one of the prettiest locations on the trek. (Trek Distance: 5.4 km and Trek Duration: 6-7 hours )

Day 4 : Trek from Baji Kharak to Chophu Camp via Thal Tok (9,690 ft to 11,752 ft)

It’s an adventurous climb that takes you through enchanting forest sections and lush green meadows.  The treeline soon ends and you will be navigating a steep ascent after the meadow. Trekkers take a break to walk barefoot on the soft grass of this clearing. You will see shepherds and their sheep creating a perfect setting. You will reach the campsite in the late afternoon. (Trek distance: 5.9 km and Trek  Duration: 7-8 hours)

Day 5 : Trek from Chophu Camp to Parava Thor via Ranthan Top (11,752 ft to  12,887 ft)

Today is the longest day. The day starts early and it’s a long and challenging day. However, the view you will have from the Ranthan Top rewards you for the difficult journey you undertake. The trail takes you through a rocky patch. You will also navigate a section of boulders and enjoy a thrilling walk on the ridge. 

As you reach the Ranthan Top after traversing on ridge and ledge, a stunning view of Himalayan peaks bless you. The sight from the vantage point mesmerizes you when the prominent peaks of Garwhal and Kumaon stand tall right before your eyes. While the view of big mountains entices you, it’s the clearings on the trail that captivate you. You will notice two vast clearings enwrapped in lush green shades. 

After immersing yourself in the picturesque and serene environment at the top, the team heads to the next campsite at Parava Thor. (Trek distance: 9.2 km and Trek Duration: 8-9 hours)

Day 6 : Trek from Parava Thor to Gogina  (9,210 ft to 6,415 ft)

After indulging in serene nature, the team prepares to head to the base village in Gogina. A constant descent, followed by a fair share of ascent that passes through forest sections and Namik Village takes you back to the base. Namik is a quaint village worth exploring. If you have a few extra hours, interact with locals to understand their humble yet content lives. (Trek distance: 10.7 km  and Trek Duration: 5-6 hours)

Day 7 : Drive back to Kathgodam

After a long and fulfilling journey to one of the prettiest treks in Uttarakhand, it is time to head back home with a bag full of thrilling stories. You will leave early in the morning for Kathgodam. It takes around 10 to 11 hrs to reach Kathgodamm. Book your onward journey accordingly.

How to reach the basecamp of Ranthan Kharak Trek

✈️Nearest Airport – Pantnagar Airport (Domestic), Jolly Grant International Airport, Dehradun. 

🚉 Nearest Railway Station – Kathgodam Railway Station

The base camp of Ranthan Kharak Trek is  Gogina around 235 km from the nearest railway station of Kathgodam. It takes 8 -10 hours drive to cover the distance. 

OWLS arranges pick-up from Kathgodam for the participants. The pick-up will be available at Kathgodam railway Station.  Reach the pickup location at 6 a.m.

The drive to the base camp passes through Almora,  Bageshwar and Pittoragarh. The mountain roads leading to the base are a scenic drive. You will reach the base camp late evening and rest for the night. 

Travel Plan to Kathgodam

The base camp Gogina is roughly 235 km and is a 10- 11 hrs drive from Kathgodam.  Kathgodam is easily accessible by air, train and road. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant International Airport in Dehradun. You can book your tickets well in advance till Dehradun to avail of tickets at cheaper rates. You can choose to travel by air from any metro city to Dehradun. The other option is to reach Delhi by air and travel by train or bus from Delhi onwards. 

  • Fly to Delhi and board a bus or train from Delhi to reach Kathgodam on Day 0

Book a direct flight to Delhi from your city. You will find frequent trains and buses plying from Delhi to Kathgodam. Reach Kathgodam by the evening of Day 0, and rest here for a night before heading to the base camp on Day 1. 

  • Fly to Pantnagar Airport and book a cab to Kathgodam

Pantnagar Airport is the nearest domestic airport, located approximately 30 km from Kathgodam. If you are flying to Pantnagar, reach Kathgodam on Day 0, i.e. day before your pick-up from Kathgodam. There are direct flights from Delhi to Pantnagar. You will also find connecting flights from other major cities. 

  • Fly to Dehradun and book a bus or a train to Kathgodam 

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun. The capital city of Dehradun is around 6 hrs away from Kathgodam. You can board a train or bus from Dehradun to reach Kathgodam. 

Note – The distance between Dehradun and Kathgodam is 274 km, and Delhi to Kathgodam is 302 km. It takes approximately the same amount of time to reach Kathgodam from both Dehradun and Delhi by train. 

How to plan your return flight/train to Delhi 

Your Ranthan Kharak Trek is 7  days, including travel to and from the base camp. The team will be back in Kathgodam on Day 7 late evening. While returning, you can fly directly out of Dehradun to your city. The second option is to travel by bus or train to Delhi from Kathgodam. 

If you go with the first option, you can book a direct flight from Dehradun to your city on Day 4. It takes roughly 7 to 8 hours to reach the airport in Dehradun. 

The second option requires you to travel to Delhi by train or bus.  Once you reach Kathgodam in the evening, you can head to the bus stand and book an overnight AC Sleeper bus to Delhi and travel comfortably. The other option to travel to Delhi from Kathgodam is by train. 

Book a flight that departs late morning or early afternoon of Day 5. The overnight buses arrive in Delhi in the wee hours. Book a flight that departs in the afternoon to avoid rushing. 

Bus options from Kathgodam to Delhi 

Train Options from Kathgodam to Delhi 

  1. Ranikhet Express (15014 ) – Leaves at 8.30 pm and reaches Delhi Cantt at 5 am. However, the train is known for running late. 
  2. Shatabdi (12039) – The train leaves in the afternoon and reaches Delhi at 9 pm. 
  3.  Utr Smprk K Exp (15036) – Leaves morning at 8.40 and reaches Old Delhi at 3.25 pm

Ranthan Kharak Trek FAQ

What kind of arrangement is available for accommodation on the trek?

The accommodation will be on a twin-sharing basis. Two trekkers will share one tent. You will stay in homestays, lodges or dormitories at the Basecamp village. 

Is there any arrangement for offloading on the trek?

Yes. You can offload your bag. Communicate your requirements to the trek leaders beforehand. The offloading charges will be Rs 500 per bag. The weight limit for the bag is 9-10 kg. 

Note: At OWLs, we suggest our participants carry backpacks and avoid offloading. However, in case of pressing circumstances, you can opt for offloading.

Can we keep our extra luggage at the base camp?

Yes, you can keep your extra luggage at the base camp. However, keep valuables like laptops, jewellery, or other expensive items in the base camp. The cloakroom facility is unavailable for treks like Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati and Bali Pass, as these treks begin from one village and conclude in another.

What will be the toilet facilities on the trek?

During your trek, the OWLS team will provide a dedicated toilet tent near the campsites. The toilets in the tent will be dry, meaning you should use toilet paper instead of water. The team will dig a try pit for your convenience. After using the toilet, please cover it with dry soil. As part of OWLS’ commitment to preserving the environment, we request that you avoid using wet wipes, as they are not biodegradable. At the base camp, you will have access to regular concrete toilets.

 

What will be the food arrangement on the trek?

The food provided will meet your nutritional requirements, as you will burn a significant amount of calories during the 4-6 hour daily walk.

What is the best time to visit the Nanda Devi Base Camp trek?

The best time to visit the Nanda Devi Base Camp trek is during summer. Nanda Devi Base Camp trek remains accessible in the autumn months of September to early November.

The team ensures that the food offered is healthy and helps you sustain through the day. The regular meal comprises eggs, locally grown vegetables, rice, roti, and pulses. The menu changes from day to day.

What will be the status of the mobile network on the trek?

You will have access to mobile networks in the base camp. We suggest our participants call their friends and family from the base camp. There will be no signals throughout the trek.

Will there be hot water facilities?

While acclimatizing to the temperature of the mountains drink water from natural sources. Since resources are limited at higher altitudes, we do not provide hot water. However, during the winter months, when natural water sources freeze, we do provide water to our participants. Another reason to avoid hot water on our trek is to prevent health issues, such as diarrhoea.

Are there any ATMs at the base camp?

The last ATM will be in Munsiyari. 

Carry a sufficient amount of cash with them. Since the base camp is situated away from the cities and lacks basic facilities like ATMs and digital payment options, it is always better to be prepared. 

You can carry the cash for cab fare and food to and from the base camp. We suggest carrying a minimum of 5-6k to ensure you have enough funds for your journey.

FAQ

How should I prepare to avoid AMS?

The most important thing to do on a trek to avoid AMS is to drink water, more than your daily intake. Water is an excellent way to avoid AMS. Along with this, you should also have all the nutritious meals we provide on the trek. If you still are sceptical about getting AMS, we would advise you to carry Diamox tablets with you. However, according to the situation your Outdoor leader will advise whether or not you should take it.

I have a medical condition. Can I join the trek?

We encourage everyone to trek, even if or not they have a medical condition. We have an in-house doctor at OWLS with whom you can discuss your medical condition and accordingly, we can help you better prepare you for the trek.

What document do I need to carry?

Please keep the following documents ready before filling out this form

  1. ID proof (Aadhar Card)
  2. Health form  

Should I bring snacks to eat on the trek?

Although we provide filling breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with morning tea and evening snacks, you can carry some light snacks for munching on the trail. You can carry protein bars, dry fruits, and homemade snacks like Shakkarpara to help you give that extra energy on the trek. 

Who will be leading my trek?

All our Outdoor Leaders are trained and experienced leaders. They have completed basic Mountaineering Course, and are equipped with basic first-aid knowledge. Our leaders are certified Wilderness First Responders. 

Do I need to get my medical kit for the trek?

You don’t need to carry your medical kit. If you have your prescribed medications, you need to carry them on the trek