Expedition Summary

The Gupt Khal Expedition (5,804m) is a challenging high-altitude trek in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, offering breathtaking views of Changabang, Kalanka, and Dunagiri peaks. Recently, Team Trans Himalaya successfully completed this 13-day trek, demonstrating exceptional endurance, preparation, and mountaineering skills.

Best Season for Gupt Khal Trek

Summer: June – Early July (Before monsoon)

Post-Monsoon: September – Early October (Clear skies, stable conditions)

Expected Temperature Range

Daytime: 5°C to 15°C

Nighttime: -5°C to -15°C (Colder at higher camps)

अक्टूबर को गुप्तखाल दर्रे को सफलता पूर्वक पार करके 5 अक्टूबर को बदरीनाथ धाम पहुंचे। यह इस साल का पहला दल है जिसने इस दरें को सफलतापूर्वक पार किया। बता दें कि यह उत्तराखंड के सबसे कठिनतम ट्रेकों में से एक है जिसकी ऊंचाई 5830 मीटर है।

ग्रुप लीडर अजय बताते हैं की उन्होंने पनपतिया ,कालिन्दी समेत कई दरों की यात्रा कि है लेकिन गुप्तखाल इन सबमें सबसे कठिन है। टीम में अजय डमडेरे, अनिकेत, चैतन्य, जितेंद्र, कौस्तुभ, निनाद, शार्दुल, तृप्ति जोशी, विलास एवं  Trans Himalaya कि टीम से गाइड अंबी, सचिन, रामपाल, सुभाष के साथ 12 पोर्टर्स की टीम थी।

Required Fitness & Preparation Medical Fitness & Acclimatization

High-altitude trekking experience recommended

Strong cardiovascular endurance & stamina

Prior acclimatization in Joshimath & Ghamsali

Medical clearance required for trekkers with respiratory or heart conditions

Physical Preparation

Cardio Training: Running, cycling, swimming (5 km in 30 minutes)

Strength Training: Core, leg, and endurance exercises

Hiking Practice: 10-15 km treks with a backpack (8-10 kg)

Flexibility & Balance: Yoga, stretching, agility drills

Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Haridwar – Joshimath (2,042m) (296 km, 10-11 hrs drive)

Drive through Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag

Stay at a hotel in Joshimath for rest and last-minute preparations

Day 2: Joshimath – Ghamsali Village (3,330m) via Niti (84 km, 3-4 hrs drive)

Rest & acclimatization in Ghamsali Village

Day 3: Ghamsali – Eri Udiyar (3,880m) (12 km trek, 5-6 hrs)

Moderate ascent through alpine meadows & forests

Day 4: Eri Udiyar – Ratanban Glacier (4,200m) (8 km trek, 4-5 hrs)

Steep climbs with moraine crossings

First views of Bankund Glacier

Day 5: Ratanban Glacier – Bankund Lake (4,480m) & Hike (5 km, 4-5 hrs)

Day hike to Bankund Lake – a sacred glacial lake

Day 6: Bankund Lake Base – Bankund Bend (4,780m) (5 km, 3-4 hrs)

Rocky & snowy terrain with gradual altitude gain

Day 7: Bankund Bend – Garh Camping Ground (5,260m) (6 km, 4-5 hrs)

Steep ascent with spectacular Himalayan views

Day 8: Garh Camp – Gupt Khal Base Camp (5,700m) (7 km, 5-6 hrs)

Challenging trek through snowfields

Day 9: Gupt Khal Base – Gupt Khal Summit (5,804m) – Nakthani Glacier Camp (5,075m) (5 km, 5-6 hrs)

Descent to Nakthani Hanging Glacier Camp

Day 1o: Nakthani Glacier – Shepherd Campsite (4,130m) (8 km, 5-6 hrs)

Crossing glacial moraines & high-altitude meadows

Day 11: Shepherd Camp – Mana Village (3,200m) (14 km, 6-7 hrs)

Trek through Musa Pani & descend to ManaEvening visit to Badrinath Temple

Day12: Drive from Badrinath – Rishikesh (270 km, 08-10 hrs)

Key Highlights

Technical Glacier & Moraine Crossings

✅ Panoramic Himalayan Views from Gupt Khal

✅ Sacred Bankund Lake & Remote Valleys

✅ Exploration of the Nanda Devi Biosphere

✅ Badrinath Temple Visit Post-Trek

Gupt Khal is an advanced trek requiring proper fitness, acclimatization, and mental resilience. Team

Trans Himalaya’s successful summit is a remarkable achievement in the world of Himalayan mountaineering!