Trek difficulty
Moderate
Trek duration
5 Days
Trek altitude
9,500 Ft
Group size
6-12
Trek distance
40 Km
Basecamp
Ghuttu
Best Time
May–June / September–October
Pickup Point
Rishikesh
The Panwali Kantha Trek, best known for its sprawling alpine meadows and endless Himalayan views, is a hidden gem in Uttarakhand's Garhwal Himalayas. This hike provides ideal balance of isolation and visual splendor at the elevation of 3,965 meters. The trail is equally rewarding throughout the year, but best time to book a Panwali Kantha Trek is in either summer/spring or winter. Passing through open lush green bugyals, deep forests of blooming rhododendron, and quaint villages is wonderful feeling for summer trekkers. Winter trekkers are rewarded with snow-covered meadows and thrilling downhill experience. If you are looking for a Himalayan hike that gives unique and tranquil experience with clear vistas of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks then Panwali Kantha Trek is the perfect option for you.
Day 1- Rishikesh To Ghuttu
Day 2- Guttu To Pobhagi
Day 3 Pobhagi To Panwali Kantha via Dyuili Top
Day 4- Panwali Kantha To Maggu Chatti
Day 5- Maggu Chatti to Trijuginarayan And Drive To Rishikesh
May–June / September–October
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Day 1: Rishikesh To Ghuttu
Drive distance: 200 km, around 5-6 hours | Altitude covered: 1,500m/4,900ft | Meals included: Dinner | Accommodation: Camp
Highlight: en route you will see Tehri Dam, the tallest dam in India
Begin early from Rishikesh and drive towards Ghuttu. Ghuttu is the base camp village from where the trek will start- quaint village nestled in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas. The scenic drive takes you past the tallest and second highest Dam in Asia-Tehri Dam. The village is set near Bhilangana River and surrounded by lush green mountains and peaceful landscapes. Other treks like, Masar Tal and Khalting Glacier are one of the other treks start from Ghuttu. If you start early morning from Rishikesh, you will reach base village by afternoon for evening snacks. Also, you will have some time to explore the local culture, interact with people, and shop for handicrafts before resting for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Guttu To Pobhagi
Trek distance: 11 km, around 5 - 6 hrs. | Altitude covered:2,900 m/9,500ft| Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snack, and Dinner | Accommodation:camps
Highlight: Rhododendrons in full bloom in Buransh Forest
After a hearty breakfast and gentle briefing, get ready for the day 1 of trek starting from Ghuttu and ending at Pobhagi. Today’s trek is gentle with gradual ascents-comfortable for beginners. Spot authentic Chaniya huts and and Panwali Kantha summer villages along the way. When the weather is clear, Bhilangana Valley appears to the right. Camping at Pobhagi is the highlight as the tents over Rhododendron (Buransh) forests, appearing vibrant red in spring. On winters, putting on crampons and gaiters is advised as trekking on snow is tricky. Enjoy hot Pahadi meal and rest for the night.
Day 3: Pobhagi To Panwali Kantha via Dyuili Top
Trek distance: 9 km, around 5 hrs. | Altitude covered: 3,700m/12,150ft.| Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snack, and Dinner | Accommodation:camps
Highlight: witness the peaks Nanda Devi, Gangotri, Trishul, Kamet, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, and Kedar Dome.
Today is going to be the most thrilling stage of your climb as you make our way to the highest point on the route. Today’s trek demands good fitness level and endurance, hence, do light stretching before setting off for Panwali Kantha. The 8 km trail changes through the seasons—snow-covered meadows in winter and flourishing greenery in summer. Cross the Dyuili Top before reaching towards Panwali-last destination of the trek. Though the ascent is moderate but snow can make it challenging. Have lunch on reaching the campsite by afternoon and soak in the serenity of sunset and expect a starry magical night before you call it a day.
Day 4: Panwali Kantha To Maggu Chatti
Trek distance:13 km, around 6 hours | Altitude covered:2,900 m/9,500 ft and return| Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snack, and Dinner | Accommodation:camps
After early breakfast, prepare for the descent towards Maggu Chatti. This 3 km trail will serve various kinds of ascents and descents. However, it is mostly downhill trek and takes up to six hours to complete. Enter the open grassland along the way and witness shepherd huts where mountain ranges act as background and cattle graze come into the main picture. The route takes you through alpine forests where you will experience the rich Himalayan flora and fauna. On the same route you will find a few refreshing waterfalls- refill your bottles and continue. The sweeping mountain views gradually disappear as you descend towards Gujjar shelters followed by sights of the Bhilangana Valley now and then to the northeast. Keep walking on the ridge-top meadows, then switchback to Maggu Chatti- final camping.
Day 5: Maggu Chatti to Trijuginarayan And Drive To Rishikesh
Trek distance: 7 km, around 4 hours |Drive distance: 230 km, around 7 hrs. | Altitude covered: 2,000 m/6,550ft.| Meals included: Breakfast | Accommodation: Alpine camps
Today is the last day of your journey where you trek for 7 km in dense forest with occasional clearings. Enjoy the gentle and light walking experience. Along the route, a few natural water sources appear including a stream, a bridge with the view of sweeping valley, and a large waterfall further. If you have booked your trek for the month of spring and summer then expect crimson rhododendron blooms. Walk downwards through thick wood section before entering the clearing with Trijuginarayan village views and another stream. After some time, you enter the village. Visit the ancient Trijuginarayan Temple in Rudraprayag. It is said to be the wedding site of Lord Shiva and Parvati. Offer the prayers before driving back to Rishikesh. Reach your destination by evening.
Inclusion
During The Trek
Exclusion
Panwali Kantha is located in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas near the Bhilangana Valley.
The trek reaches an altitude of approximately 3,965 m (13,000 ft).
The trek opens in the season of summer April to June and in winter December to March.
The trek is considered moderate, ideal for beginners with good fitness level and a prior trekking knowledge will be an add-on. However, during the winter season it gets difficult due to snow. So, plan accordingly.
The trek typically takes 5 to 6 days, including travel to and from Rishikesh.
Yes, first-time trekkers with good fitness level can attempt Panwali Kantha Trek, especially in non-snow months.
Trekkers are accommodated in tents in high-altitude region and basic homestays/guesthouses at base villages.
Major peaks which you can witness are Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kamet, Kedarnath, and Kedar Dome.
Its sweeping alpine meadows, 360 degree Himalayan views, gorgeous rhododendron forests, and lesser crowds make it a hidden gem.
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.
