Lamkhaga Pass Trek

About Lamkhaga Pass Trek

Lamkhaga Pass is one of the popular choices for Mountain Trekking in Himalayan Mountain trek-routes. Located in the Indo-China Border at Dhauladhar Range, connects the north-eastern Garhwal with Himachal Pradesh. The altitude from sea-level is a dizzy 5326 meters or 17320 ft. So you can very well imagine how adventurous and breathtaking the trekking experience of Lamkhaga Pass will be. Trekking teams can choose two-ways either from Harsil, the beautiful hill-station of the Garhwal region to end at Chitkul, the last village with inhabitation at Kinnaur Valley in Himachal Pradesh, or vice-versa. Harsil to Chitkul is the preferred route of 90 kms trekking by many adventure and jolly-trekking lovers.

History has it that this enchanting Lamkhaga Pass Trek, which is comparatively remote by its location, was first crossed and enjoyed by Marco Pallis in 1933. Actually the Harshil hill-station trekking takes the route via Gangnani (where the river Gangnani flows from Himalayan Mountain); Kyarkoti; Sukhatal; Lamkhaga Pass; Gundar; Dumti; Ranikanda and ends at Chitkul. Since the area is under control of Indian Army, trekking teams have to get Inner-line Permit from the Deputy Commissioner at Uttarkashi of Uttarkhand. Here the trekking group can also have the darshan of God Viswhanath Temple, famous pilgrimage center for all Hindus in India.

Some of the important camps of Lamkhaga Pass are worth mentioning here. Harsil is a small town on the banks of River Bhagirathi. Pilgrims to Gangotri have to pass through this place and the famous bridge, built by Raja Wilson alias Fredrick Wilson deserting the Indian Army and took refuge here. Wilson Cottage built in 1864 stands testimony for his memory, as an awesome huge mansion. The unspoiled scenic beauties of Harsil and the panoramic view from this high-location (2620 kms above sea level) are to be seen to be believed. Fresh unpolluted air and water in a serene atmosphere are bonuses.

Gangnani is the next important scenic location, where swarms of Gangotri pilgrims take a holy dip in the Natural Hot Water Spring, by name Rhishikund. Among the chilling glaciers of Himalayan Mountain, this is a real nature’s gift. From Harsil to Kyarkoti the trekking is filled with watching breathtaking views of snowy mountain-peaks, while crossing the dense forests of deodar trees, Alpine forests full of “paper trees” (Bhojpatra) and juniper etc. along with Kyarkoti Bugyals (meaning Alpine meadows), country-folks called “bakriwale” rearing flocks of mountain sheep and goats, and running langoors (a type of monkeys). With some luck, you can even have the chance of seeing ibex (species of wild goat), snow fox, eagles and mountain crows.

Gundar-Dumti trekking is of 15 kms and will be an enjoyable one, with the beautiful sceneries all around, when the trek is going upwards and downwards. Similarly, Dumti to Ranikhanda will be equally fascinating due to its giving a pleasant feeling, to look around and enjoy the scenic views Mother Nature is providing for the mankind. Chitkul, the final destination of Lamkhaga Pass Trek is the highest (11316 ft.) and last village of Baspa Valley, along the banks of Baspa River. From here you can view the entire Kinnaur valley and its mountains to happily end the most thrilling Lamkhaga Pass Trek.