Trek difficulty
Easy
Trek duration
15 Days Days
Trek altitude
6,387 Meter
Group size
6-12
Trek distance
72 Km
Basecamp
Uttarakhand
Best Time
May to June and September to October
Pickup Point
Dehradun (Prince Chowk)
The Mt. Black Peak Expedition, also called Kalanag, is a tough but amazing mountain trek in Uttarakhand, India. The mountain is 6,387 meters tall, so it is a serious climb and needs good fitness and some climbing experience. The trek includes walking on glaciers, climbing rocks, and hiking in snow as well.
This journey starts from Sankri village, and then you hike up to Black Peak Base Camp, which is at 4,000 meters. You will spend a few days getting used to the height, and then you will try to reach the top. The final day is a tough climb, but when you reach the summit, you will see beautiful views of the Gangotri Range, Swargarohini, and Banderpunch peaks.
The best time to do the trek is between May and October. Overall, it is perfect for people who love adventure and want to see the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.
The Mighty Black Peak
At 6,287 meters, Black Peak is the tallest of the three peaks in the Bandarpoonch Massif. Standing at its summit is an incredible feat, one that only those who truly love a challenge will appreciate. The sheer height of the mountain makes the climb both thrilling and tough. If you are someone who thrives on adventure, reaching the top of Black Peak will be an unforgettable moment.
An Adventure Like No Other
Climbing Black Peak is much more than just a hike, it is an experience you will remember forever. From glaciers to rocky stretches, the trail tests your stamina and determination at every turn. But when you finally stand on top, the feeling is pure triumph. And, the memories from these adventures will stick with you long after you have come back down.
Bandarpoonch Massif: The Backbone of the Himalayas
The Bandarpoonch Massif isn’t just about Black Peak. It is made up of three massive peaks, and the whole region is jaw-dropping in its beauty and mystery. If you are looking for a place that embodies the raw power of the Himalayas, this is it. So, every step you take in this range feels like a step into something ancient and powerful.
Govind National Park: Nature’s Paradise
As you make your way up, you will pass through Govind National Park, which is like stepping into a different world. It is home to all kinds of plants and wildlife, particularly in the Gangotri region. The park is a haven of natural beauty which is perfect for anyone who appreciates the simplicity and power of the wilderness.
Not Your Average Hike
This trek is no walk in the park. It is a tough climb that requires more than just basic hiking skills. You will have to navigate icy fields, climb glaciers, and even scale a 75-foot vertical ice wall with a steep incline. Please keep in mind that it is not for the faint-hearted, but for experienced trekkers and the kind of challenge you will come across will make the reward so much sweeter.
A Sacred Peak
Locals have long believed Black Peak, also known as Kala Nag (or “Black Snake”),holds deep spiritual significance. Some say it is connected to Lord Shiva, while others believe it is where Lord Hanuman passed through on his way to Lanka. The mountain’s connection to these ancient legends adds an extra layer of meaning to the climb.
Untouched Wilderness
For a long time, the area around Black Peak remained unexplored. It is not just because of the technical difficulty; it is also because it is considered sacred by the locals. This has helped keep the region untouched, and trekking here feels like stepping into a place that hasn’t been changed by time or human hands.
Wildlife in the Himalayas
As you make your way through the region, there’s a good chance you will encounter some incredible wildlife. Himalayan blue sheep, red foxes, musk deer, and golden eagles are just a few of the species that call this area home. And if you are lucky enough, you might even spot the elusive snow leopard, known as the “Ghost of the Himalayas.”
Breathtaking Flora
The trail begins in lush forests of oak, pine, and deodar trees, giving the path a mystical atmosphere. As you ascend, the landscape changes, and you will find yourself surrounded by colorful rhododendron bushes and meadows full of wildflowers, everything from primulas to blue poppies. The scenery is simply breathtaking.
The Trail’s Many Challenges
The trek to Black Peak isn’t a walk in the park. It is challenging, with rocky stretches, steep climbs, and icy glaciers that test your endurance. But that’s what makes it such an exciting adventure. Every part of the journey is different, and it is this unpredictability that makes the trek so engaging for those who love a real challenge.
Ruinsara Tal: A Peaceful Refuge
It is the kind of place that makes you stop and appreciate the quiet beauty of nature. During the trek, you will come across Ruinsara Tal, a serene high-altitude lake located at 3,500 meters. Surrounded by lush meadows and towering peaks like Swargarohini, it is a beautiful spot to rest and take in the peace of the surroundings.
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri
Day 2: Sankri to Seema via Dhatmeer
Day 3: Seema to Rainbasera
Day 4: Rainbasera to Ruinsara Tal
Day 5: Ruinsara Tal to Kyarkoti (Base Camp)
Day 6: Base Camp to Advanced Base Camp (ABC)
Day 7: Rest / Acclimatization / Load Ferry
Day 8: ABC to Camp 1
Day 9: Camp 1 to Summit Camp
Day 10: Summit Camp to Summit Attempt (Black Peak)
Day 11: Summit Camp to Base Camp
Day 12: Kyarkoti Base Camp to Ruinsara Tal
Day 13: Ruinsara Tal to Seema
Day 14: Seema to Dhatmeer and Drive to Sankri
Day 15: Drive Back to Dehradun
The best time to go for the Black Peak Expedition, also known as Kala Nag, is between May to June and again from September to mid-October. During these months, the weather is usually clear and stable, which makes it safer and easier to climb such a high-altitude mountain. You get to enjoy beautiful views, less snow trouble, and better trail conditions. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon and peak winter months, as the weather can be harsh and risky.
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri
Altitude: 1,950m / 6,400ft (Sankri) | Distance: 220 km | Approx. 10 hours | Pick-up Time: 06:00 am
You start early out of Dehradun, clustering along pine-grows in the intervening ridges, to the pleasing village of Sankri. The elevation seems thin and yet it is actual-air cleansed, more silentness. You perform one last check of the gears, introduce yourself to your colleagues in the team and take a brief stroll in the afternoon.
Day 2: Sankri to Seema via Dhatmeer
Altitude: 2,600m / 8,500ft (Seema), 2,400m / 8,000ft (Dhatmeer) | Drive: Sankri to Dhatmeer: 18 km | 1-1.5 hrs | Trek: Dhatmeer to Seema: 10 km | 6-7 hrs
In a jeep you set off to Taluka and then on foot. The tracks take their millions along in the shrubs of chestnut, walnut and willow trees and you are forever in the company of the Supin River. You enter the village of Seema, you are surrounded by warm camp, the night air is fresh and you have a sense of the altitude, something, which you have never experienced before.
Day 3: Seema to Rainbasera
Altitude: 3,100m / 10,200ft | Trek: 10 km | 6-7 hours
Day 4: Rainbasera to Ruinsara Tal
Altitude: 3,600m / 11,800ft | Trek: 7 km | 4-5 hours
You are today going into alpine ground. The woods become thin, fields are open, and mats of snow are left. Ruinsara Tal resembles the snow-dust-peaks as observed in a mirror. Pitch a tent by it, and partake of the calm, and overwhelming bulk of the mountains round it.
Day 5: Ruinsara Tal to Kyarkoti (Base Camp)
Altitude: 4,050m / 13,300ft | Trek: 7 km | 5-6 hours
The road is still more rugged–moraines, boulders, glessment streams. Kyarkoti Base Camp is in the shadow of the north face of Kalanag. You begin to experience the gravity of the climbing.
Day 6: Base Camp to Advanced Base Camp (ABC)
Altitude: 4,500m / 14,800ft | Trek: 5 km | 5 hours
You use the day in carrying supplies to Advanced Base Camp and coming back. This will also aid in acclimatizing your body and will provide you with experience in the snow ground.
Day 7: Rest / Acclimatization / Load Ferry
The day is for rest and acclimatization. The trek leader will decide how to utilize this day, either for a short acclimatization trek or for preparing the gear and logistics for the upcoming days.
Day 8: ABC to Camp 1
Altitude: 5,050m / 16,500ft | Trek: 2 km | 3-4 hours
An uphill climb on snowy moraine. The atmosphere is finer; walk steadily; no footstep is wasted. Camp 1 is under a ridge and a view of the peak in the business of sunrise wakes you up.
Day 9: Camp 1 to Summit Camp
Altitude: 5,500m / 18,000ft | Trek: 3 km | 4-5 hours
The travel all over glaciers, roped sections, fixed lines. Crunch-crunch-crunch hath you, Watch-Watch hath your breathing. Camp 2 is the launch point of the summit vert at.
Day 10: Summit Camp to Summit Attempt (Black Peak)
Altitude: 6,387m / 20,950ft | Trek: 3 km | 7-8 hours (one way)
You wake at 2 a.m., quiet, focused. The ridge ascends to the 70° sections, and there is a 75 ft. high ice wall on top. There must be fixed ropes, crammons and an ice-axe. On the summit, there is a prospect of 360 of the Himalaya: Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and the Yamuna headwaters. You inhale the mountain and the mountain inhales you.
Day 11: Summit Camp to Base Camp
Altitude: 4,050m / 13,300ft | Trek: 10 km | 6-7 hours
Day 12: Kyarkoti Base Camp to Ruinsara Tal
Altitude: 3,600m / 11,800ft | Trek: 7 km | 4 hours
Day 13: Ruinsara Tal to Seema
Altitude: 2,600m / 8,500ft | Trek: 17 km | 8 hours
Day 14: Seema to Dhatmeer and Drive to Sankri
Altitude: 2,400m / 8,000ft (Dhatmeer), 1,950m / 6,400ft (Sankri) | Trek: Seema to Dhatmeer | 10 km | 5 hours | Drive: Dhatmeer to Sankri | 18 km | 1-1.5 hrs
Day 15: Drive Back to Dehradun
Distance: 220 km | Approx. 10 hours
🚐 Transport Pickup Time: 7:30 AM, Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station.
From the scheduled pick-up point to the base camp, we arrange transportation in vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dzire, or Tempo Traveller (12-seater). This is shared by trekkers at a pre-decided cost. All vehicles are non-AC for mountain travel safety.
🏡 Accommodation Base Camp Stay: 1-night accommodation in a local homestay or guesthouse, offering a glimpse of authentic Himalayan lifestyle. (Single-sharing available at INR 5,000 extra per person for the entire trek)
On-Trek Stay: Twin-sharing tents (Vango Halo Pro / A-Shape) built to handle extreme weather while keeping you comfortable after a long day’s trek.
⛺ Camping Equipment High-quality sleeping bags rated for sub-zero temperatures.
Foam mattresses for added comfort.
Safety gear including microspikes, gaiters, helmets, and ice axe (where required).
💊 Medical Support Our team carries an extensive medical kit and is trained in high-altitude first aid.
Oxygen cylinders (checked before every trek) are available at campsites and with the team at all times.
🌿 Permissions & FeesAll forest entry permits and camping fees for Indian nationals are included. (Additional charges apply for foreign nationals)
🍽 Meals Nutritious veg meals (with eggs) — Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner.
Jain and vegan meals available on prior request.
Dedicated kitchen tent and dining tent with tables and seating.
👨👩👧👦 Our Team Certified Trek Leader (AMC/BMC/NIM-trained) for safety and smooth execution.
Local Guides with deep knowledge of the trail, culture, and biodiversity.
Support Crew including cook, helpers, porters, and mules for common equipment.
🎒 Cloakroom Facility You can leave extra luggage safely at our base camp free of charge.
During The Trek Exclusion
❌ Personal expenses like tips, medicines, and phone calls.
❌ Travel from your hometown to the pick-up point.
❌ Personal trekking gear (jackets, shoes, backpacks, cutlery) — available for rent at affordable rates on prior request.
❌ Backpack offloading (optional) – INR 400 per bag/day (up to 12 kg).
❌ Trek insurance (mandatory) — to be arranged separately.
❌ Buffer day cost (if used) — to be paid directly to the trek leader.
❌ Any items not mentioned in the inclusions list.
Black Peak is pretty tough. It’s not just a regular hike; it’s a technical climb. You’ll need to be ready for steep ascents, glaciers, and even some ice climbing. The altitude also makes it harder, so it’s best suited for experienced trekkers who’ve done some high-altitude treks before.
The whole Black Peak expedition covers around 80-90 kilometers (about 50-55 miles) from start to finish. It’s not just the distance, though, it’s the tough terrain, the high altitude, and the time it takes to acclimatize that make it a serious challenge.
The trek starts from Sankri, a small village in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. It is a beautiful spot in the foothills of the Himalayas and is the base camp for your journey up to Black Peak.
Black Peak stands at a height of 6,387 meters (or 20,950 feet). It’s the highest point in the Bandarpoonch Massif.
Testimonials
Radandi Shashank
“You are not just a mountain trek guides, but a true guardian of the journey. Your unwavering loyalty to our team, the mountains, and safety itself is extraordinary. Every step felt secure because of your dedication, integrity. And stayed committed to every trekker, through every challenge, with patience, care, and honesty. Huge respect to Subodh Jii n Aditi Mam!! Thank youu @thinairexpedition It was wonderful experience!!❤️❤️
67D3_KALYAN
Completing the Kedarkantha trek at an altitude of around 12,500 feet was not just a trek for us, it was a life-long memory, and a major reason for this unforgettable experience is our guide Shubhod Sir. From the very first day till the summit, Shubhod Sir guided us with immense patience, discipline, and genuine care. At every difficult patch, when our legs were tired and breathing became hard, his calm words, constant motivation, and confident leadership gave us the strength to keep moving forward. He never rushed anyone and always made sure that every member of the group was safe, comfortable, and mentally strong. Shubhod Sir’s knowledge of the mountains, weather, and high-altitude conditions was truly impressive. More than a guide, he felt like a protector and mentor who treated everyone like family. His positive attitude and humble nature created a sense of trust and confidence among all of us. We are also thankful to Atidhi Madam for her support and cooperation during the trek, which added to the smooth experience. Because of Shubhod Sir’s guidance and dedication, we successfully reached the summit with confidence and joy. We will always remember this trek with gratitude and respect. Truly blessed to have a guide like him. 🙏⛰️
Arvind Sahu
Wonderful experience totally worth it. At those price they provided services that no one could provides really enjoyed ❤️🎉
Kolanu Anirudh
This is my first trek in Uttarakhand(Kedharkanta) and Thin Air Expedition made it a memorable one Thanks for everything subodh bro you made it so special.
kanica kandpal
Completed the Gaumukh–Tapovan trek with Thin Air Expedition, and it was an exceptional experience from beginning to end. Instead of opting for a fixed-departure model, we chose a personally curated itinerary, as this was our first trek—and it turned out to be the perfect decision. The team was extremely thoughtful in planning each day’s distance, ensuring we were comfortably challenged without ever feeling overtired or exhausted upon reaching the campsites. Every campsite was carefully selected, offering not just safety and comfort but also breathtaking views that made each halt truly memorable. What stood out most was the level of personalization. The itinerary was clearly tailored to our pace and comfort, and the trek leader constantly shared insightful facts about the region, its geography, and cultural significance, adding depth and meaning to the journey. Overall, Thin Air Expedition delivers a highly personalized, well-paced, and enriching trekking experience. I would highly recommend them, especially for first-time trekkers looking for a safe, informative, and thoughtfully curated adventure.Sen
Raj Bahadur
I booked my trek with Thin Air Expedition on a friend’s recommendation, and it turned out to be a great decision. They managed travel and accommodation very smoothly, and everything was well organized throughout the journey. The team stayed in regular coordination, ensuring that stays and drivers were properly arranged each day. The entire trip was timely, hassle-free, and also pocket-friendly. I would definitely recommend Thin Air Expedition—you can trust them completely with your travel and trekking plans.
sachin aulakh
I recently completed the Kedarkantha Trek with ThinAirExpedition, and the entire experience was outstanding. The coordination, communication, and arrangements were excellent. The trek leaders were experienced and friendly, the support staff was humble, the stay was comfortable, and the food quality in such high altitude conditions was truly impressive. Their focus on safety and responsible trekking made the journey even better. I would definitely choose them again for my next Himalayan adventure! 🏔️✨
Aman rai
I recently completed a trek with the help of ThinAirExpedition, and the entire experience was very comfortable. From stay arrangements to travel from Rishikesh to Rishikesh, everything was well managed. The driver was extremely polite, supportive, and made the journey smooth and stress-free. Overall, a great experience and I would definitely recommend them.
Nitya Jaiswal
Kedarkantha was not just a trek, it was an experience that helped me reconnect with myself. Thanks to Thin air expeditions , I felt safe, cared for and encouraged at every step. The sunrise at the summit, the laughter around the campfire and the kindness of the guides will stay with me forever. If you're looking for a company that treats you like family on the mountains, this is the one.
Biswajit Sahoo
Subodh Sir making the trek so much of fun and intresting .. Awesome Experience with Subodh Sir
Anmol Verma
Overall trekking and accommodation was a very smooth experience. Our trek leader Mr. Ramesh was amazing and very helpful. He managed to make the trek look easy. Overall experience was 10/10. Would highly recommend.
Rishabh Singh Rana
Trek Guide Mr. Ramesh Ji is a very cool & good person. Trek journey became beautiful with the group and overall it became my one of the best experience.
aditi vaidya
I recently went on a trek with Thin Air Expeditions, and I can't get over the experience I had! I did the Phulara Ridge trek with Subodh sir, and it was an incredible experience. What made it even more special was that Subodh sir made sure I could bring my dog, Flake, a toy pom. His team and him took such great care of us, and it was clear that they truly care about their guests, human or canine! The group was amazing too. I met some wonderful people along the way, and we formed lifelong bonds. The whole experience was beautiful – from the breathtaking views to the friendly, supportive environment. I’ll cherish these memories forever! If you're looking for a SAFE, well-organized, fun, and caring trekking company, Thin Air Expeditions and Subodh sir are the ones to go with!
Anuja Vaidya
It was a wonderful experience with TAE on Phulara ridge trek, everything was on point the gears, food, trek guides and Subodh sir himself was an amazing leader who is the founder of TAE, he made sure the experience was amazing even for the first timers keeping safety the first priority. Also I took my Dog, Flake along with me for the trek and it was a great experience for her as well and her food and safety was well taken care of . 🐾 Would love to go back again with Thin air expedition. Thank you so much 🤗
Simran Samal
Phulara Ridge Trek – A Memorable Experience for me !!! Someone once told me, “Trips aren’t just about travel — they become a part of you.” I never really believed it, but this time, Phulara Ridge became exactly that for me. Our first campsite — the forest trail, the tents, the whole setting — gave me the first taste of what was to come. Everything was so thoughtfully arranged, it felt like nature itself had prepared that space for us. All thanks to our trek leader, Subodh bhai 🙌🏻. The next stop was magical in its own way. The campsite was picture-perfect, and we even ended up learning a bit of the local Uttarakhandi dance from Dev bhaiya (well… I tried to! 😄). In the evenings, we played games and spent such a good time that we forgot the weight of city life for a while. And finally, the Ridge: Honestly, we thought the weather would block the views, but Subodh bhai timed it so perfectly that the skies cleared for us. Walking on the ridge — one valley on the right, another on the left, clouds passing beneath us — felt surreal. We sat there for hours, just soaking it all in. It was pure peace. And yes, we even made tea there!!! 🫶🏻 (Of course, we made no mess, cleaned it all up, and left the space exactly the way it should be 😌). For me personally, trekking has always been like meditation — a way to quiet the noise and reconnect with myself. This trek with Subodh bhai and the team gave me exactly that: peace, perspective, memories for a lifetime, and inspiration. #SoGrateful 🙏🏻 Thank you, Subodh bhai and team, for making this such a soulful and unforgettable journey! Lastly Just one note for all: “In the end, we don’t conquer mountains; they help us discover who we truly are.” To anyone even considering it: please go with #ThinAir Expeditions to experience the rawness of trekking, the beauty of nature, and the joy of escaping city life for a while. You’ll come back not just with pictures, but with stories, stillness, and a piece of the mountains in your heart. All the best !!! ✌🏻
Netra Sharma
It was a wonderful experience with ThinAir Expedition. I went on my first trek to Phulara Ridge, and it was truly amazing. Our guide, Subodh ji, managed everything so well and remained patient throughout the trek. I enjoyed every moment and every spot. The place, the cook, and the helpers were all wonderful. The food and camps were awesome. I highly recommend joining ThinAir Expedition to experience the best of “pahadi” life!
Vaibhav Srivastava
Thin Air Expedition gave us the best experience while trekking. Everything was finely arranged and properly taken care of whether it was travel, food. Staff availablity. But the best part was free hand while trekking. Subodh led us beautifully taking in note that everyone reaches the base camp and everyone is doing well. Consulting our next phase keeping in mind the safety and gears. It was collectively very amazing. He gave us full free hand additionally it is our responsibility as well to take care of each other. We did so many activities had games and fun and he even taught us how to camp. How to set up it was fun. If it would've given me option I'll rate it 10. Thanks subodh and team and thin air expedition for such a memorable trip.
Somya Chaturvedi
I recently did the Phulara Ridge Trek with Thin Air Expedition, and it was my first trek ever truly an unforgettable experience! Everything was so well managed from safety arrangements and equipment to food and stay, I never had to worry about a thing. Our trek leader, Subodh, was extremely supportive, patient, and motivating, which made a huge difference for a first-timer like me. The food was simple, homely, and very satisfying after long trekking hours. Most importantly, safety was always the top priority. For anyone planning their first or next trek, I’d highly recommend Thin Air Expedition. Professional, caring, and passionate about making the experience memorable!
We're always ready for adventure
Trekking comes with uncertainty. Weather, terrain, and setbacks are part of the journey. We embrace them with resilience and openness—each challenge makes us stronger and more appreciative of nature's beauty.
We embrace low-noise trekking
We blend into nature, not the other way around. We avoid shouting, loud music, and noisy games. In silence, we hear birdsong, streams, and the wind—inviting peace, reflection, and a deeper connection with nature.
We protect the environment
We protect the environment by minimising waste, reusing resources, and picking up litter. We carry eco-bags, segregate waste, and inspire others to preserve trails. Sustainable trekking ensures these mountains remain beautiful for future generations.
We are self-sufficient
We carry our load as much as possible, manage our gear, and stay prepared for all situations. Self-sufficiency builds confidence, independence, and respect for fellow trekkers, support staff, and the trail itself.
We support each other
Trekking is not a solo act. We wait for each other, share burdens, and uplift teammates. By putting the group first, we build strong bonds and help everyone complete the trek joyfully.
We are fit and prepared
We train well before our treks. This helps us walk longer, handle emergencies, and contribute to the team. Fitness ensures we are never a burden and always ready to help when needed.
