Pindari Glacier, located in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, is a natural wonder nestled between the majestic Nanda Devi and Nandakot mountains. Known for its breathtaking beauty and adventurous trekking routes, the glacier has been attracting mountaineers and trekkers from all over the world for more than a century. Stretching over 9 kilometers, the glacier gives birth to the Pindar River, which eventually meets the Alaknanda River at Karnaprayag in the Garhwal district. The trek to Pindari Glacier is not just a journey through the rugged terrains of the Himalayas, but a pilgrimage to nature’s untouched splendor.
The Journey to Pindari Glacier
The journey to Pindari Glacier begins from the quaint villages of Saung and Loharkhet. As trekkers make their way through the dense forests, they cross over the Dhakuri Pass and continue towards Khati village, which is the last inhabited settlement on the trail. From Khati, the trek progresses through the remote and serene landscapes of Dwali and Phurkia, eventually leading to the Zero Point at Pindar. This final destination is where the true beauty of the glacier unveils itself, leaving trekkers in awe of the expansive ice fields and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
The entire trek covers a round trip of approximately 90 kilometers, which most adventurers find manageable within six days. Unlike other glacier treks in India, the Pindari Glacier trek is considered less challenging, making it accessible to both seasoned trekkers and novices alike. The trail primarily follows the course of the Pindari River, although the river remains hidden behind the lush green valleys until after Khati.
A Glimpse into the History of Pindari Glacier
Pindari Glacier is not only a geographical marvel but also a site rich in historical significance. According to local folklore, the glacier was named after the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata, who are believed to have performed their ‘Pind Daan’ (a ritual offering to ancestors) at this very location before continuing their journey to the heavens. This legend adds a spiritual dimension to the trek, attracting not only adventure seekers but also those on a quest for spiritual solace.
The first recorded exploration of the Pindari Glacier route dates back to the 1830s when the Deputy Commissioner of Kumaon ventured into the region. Before this, the area served as an ancient trade route, connecting the Kumaon region with the valleys of Milam and beyond. Over the years, the glacier has been meticulously surveyed, with the earliest comprehensive survey conducted by G. de P. Cotter in 1906. Subsequent surveys have documented the glacier’s gradual retreat, highlighting the impact of climate change on this natural wonder.
The Retreat of Pindari Glacier: A Climatic Concern
The Pindari Glacier, like many other glaciers in the Himalayas, has been steadily retreating over the past century. The first significant survey in 1906 recorded the glacier’s size and extent, and by 1958, a study conducted by Amber P. Tiwari and Jangpangi revealed a retreat of 1,040 meters over 52 years. Further surveys in 1966 documented an additional retreat of 200 meters and the separation of the Chhanguch branch from the main glacier, resulting in the loss of several thousand cubic meters of ice.
Recent studies have shown that the glacier has retreated an additional 1,569 meters between 1976 and 2014. This alarming rate of retreat is attributed to the effects of climate change, which is causing glaciers across the Himalayas to shrink at unprecedented rates. The retreat of the Pindari Glacier poses a significant threat to the agricultural communities in the Ganges basin, as the Pindar River, which originates from the glacier, is a crucial water source for the Alaknanda River, one of the major headstreams of the Ganges.
Trekking the Pindari Glacier: A Moderate Challenge
Despite the glacier’s gradual retreat, the trek to Pindari Glacier remains one of the most sought-after adventure activities in Uttarakhand. The trail is known for its moderate gradient, making it an ideal choice for trekkers of varying experience levels. The route is well-defined, with only one minor pass-crossing at the Dhakuri Pass, where trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
The trek begins with relatively flat hikes through dense rhododendron forests, where the vibrant red and pink blossoms add a splash of color to the landscape. As the trail ascends, trekkers encounter mountain ridges, spider walls, and stream crossings, each presenting a unique challenge and an opportunity to connect with nature. The Pindari Glacier trek is not just about the destination but also about the journey, which offers an immersive experience in the rich culture and traditions of the local villages.
The Pindari Glacier Trek Route: A Step-by-Step Guide
Loharkhet to Dhakuri: The trek begins at Loharkhet, a small village that serves as the starting point for the Pindari Glacier trek. From Loharkhet, trekkers embark on a steep ascent to Dhakuri, which takes about 5-6 hours. The trail winds through dense oak and rhododendron forests, offering occasional glimpses of the snow-capped peaks. Dhakuri, perched at an altitude of 2,680 meters, is the first major stop on the trek and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Dhakuri to Khati: After spending the night at Dhakuri, trekkers continue their journey towards Khati, the last inhabited village on the trail. The trek to Khati is relatively easier, with a gradual descent through lush green valleys. Khati is a charming village that offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Kumaoni people. Trekkers can rest here and soak in the serene atmosphere before proceeding further.
Khati to Dwali: The next leg of the trek takes trekkers from Khati to Dwali, a small settlement located at the confluence of the Pindar and Kafni rivers. The trail from Khati to Dwali is a mix of ascents and descents, with the Pindar River flowing alongside for most of the journey. The trail passes through dense forests and offers occasional views of the river, which remains mostly hidden behind the thick foliage.
Dwali to Phurkia: From Dwali, the trail ascends steeply towards Phurkia, a remote and desolate location that serves as the final stop before the glacier. The trek from Dwali to Phurkia is challenging, with several caved-in sections and landslide-prone areas. However, the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the pristine beauty of the landscape make the effort worthwhile.
Phurkia to Zero Point, Pindar: The final leg of the trek takes trekkers from Phurkia to Zero Point, the ultimate destination of the Pindari Glacier trek. The trail is relatively short but steep, and as trekkers ascend, the glacier gradually comes into view. Zero Point, located at an altitude of 3,660 meters, offers an unrestricted view of the glacier and the surrounding peaks, including the towering Nanda Devi and Nandakot. The sight of the glacier, with its vast expanse of ice and snow, is a reward for the arduous journey.
Adventure Activities at Pindari Glacier
Apart from trekking, Pindari Glacier is also a hub for adventure sports like ice climbing and mountain biking. The challenging terrain and the extreme weather conditions make ice climbing a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. Mountain biking is another popular activity, with several trails in the region offering a mix of rugged paths and breathtaking views.
The Impact of Climate Change on Pindari Glacier
The retreat of the Pindari Glacier is a stark reminder of the effects of climate change on the Himalayan region. The glacier’s retreat has been accelerating over the years, with studies showing a significant loss of ice mass. This has raised concerns about the long-term impact on the water resources of the region, particularly the Ganges River, which is fed by the Pindar River.
The loss of glaciers like Pindari could have devastating effects on the agriculture-dependent communities in the Ganges basin. The reduced flow of glacial meltwater could lead to water shortages, affecting crop yields and food security in the region. The retreat of the Pindari Glacier is not just an environmental concern but also a socio-economic issue that requires urgent attention.
Best Time to Visit Pindari Glacier
The best time to embark on the Pindari Glacier trek is between mid-April and June, during the summer season, and from September to mid-November, during the autumn season. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. The summer months are ideal for trekking, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to between 7°C and 2°C. The autumn season, from September to November, offers cooler temperatures, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 10°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to between 5°C and -5°C.
How to Reach Pindari Glacier
Reaching Pindari Glacier requires a combination of train, road, and foot travel. The nearest railway station to the starting point of the trek is Kathgodam, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi. From Kathgodam, trekkers can hire a cab to Bageshwar district, a journey that takes approximately 8 to 10 hours. The trek to Pindari Glacier begins from Loharkhet, which can be reached by road from Bageshwar. For those looking for a more extended adventure, the trek can also be started from Saung, a small village.
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