Ranthan Kharak Trek 2026|Cost,Itinerary & Best Time to Visit.

Ranthan Kharak Trek: A Journey Through Majestic Landscapes

Nestled in the lesser-known region of Kumaon, Uttarakhand, the Ranthan Kharak Trek is an appealing 6-night, 7-day voyage spanning about 34 to 38 kilometres. This easy-moderate-level trek requires climbing to a maximum altitude of 13,000 feet at Ranthan Top. The starting and ending point of this trek is the charming village of Gogina; the trail strolls through lush oak and rhododendron forests, sprawling alpine meadows, and classic Himalayan settlements, offering trekkers a rich and fascinating natural beauty and traditional lifestyle.

Ranthan Top offers stunning panoramic views of majestic peaks like the Panchachuli range, Mt. Mrigthuni, Mt. Dangthal, Nanda Kot and Nanda Devi. In spring, the trekkers are rewarded with the breathtaking bloom of rhododendrons. During this season the landscape does not look less than a painting where it is coloured in shades of red, pink, and white.

Key highlights of the Ranthan Kharak Trek:

– Nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, this lesser-explored place lets you experience true peace and raw natural beauty.

– While trekking, you witness beautiful and dense Rhododendron, oak and coniferous forests expanding to Bugyal meadows.

– After reaching Ranthan top, panoramic views of Himalayan peaks make the whole trekking experience worth and rewarding.

– Experience authentic Kumaon culture by visiting villages like Gogina and Dharapani.

– Enhance the wilderness adventure by staying in remote, serene camps.

– Challenging yet accessible trails make it perfect for both beginners and trekking enthusiasts.

How to get a permit for the Ranthan Kharak Trek?

Obtaining a permit for the Ranthan Kharak Trek is a crucial and important step. The trek traverses through a forest area; hence, taking a permit from the forest authority is a mandatory process for both national and foreign nationals. Foreign nationals will need additional permits facilitated by their trekking agency.

Acquiring a permit can be a bothersome task; hence, it is suggested to ask your trekking agency to take care of the specific requirements. Thin Air Expedition includes its permit cost in their package only. When you book a trek with them in advance, they take care of necessary permits and the processing on your behalf.

If you are planning to obtain a permit independently, then contact the Bageshwar Forest Department Division Office and enquire about the procedure of filing the application and obtaining the permit. Make sure you have all the valid IDs, like an Aadhaar card, PAN card and driving licence, before requesting the same.

Day 5: Thal Tok to Ranthan Top to returning to Parwa Thor Camp

Trek distance: 6-7 hrs, around 4 to 5 hours

Altitude covered: 13,000 ft

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner

Overnight stay: Parwa Thor Camp

How does your day 5 look?

Today is the day when you will be crossing rocky sections, including boulders, and trekking a bit extra than the other days of this journey. This challenging day will test your fitness and patience at the same time.
Start your trek with a steep zig-zag climb leading towards the Chopu Top only to view the mesmerizing towering peaks of Nanda Devi, Nandakot, Dang thyal, Mrigthuni, Maiktoli and Tharkot. From here only you will see the open view of the entire valley.
The Chopu region is quite famous for Monals and mountain goats. After the Chopu top, the trail gets steeper. You will need to walk on the ridge for a while to reach Ranthan Top. The mix of ridges, ledges and steep zigzags leads you towards Ranthan Top.
Look at your front from here to see snowy sections if you chose to trek during the summer season. Follow your trek leader’s instruction cautiously in order to cross risky edges and ridges successfully.
After a lengthy and challenging walk, rewards are waiting, like the magnificent mountain views. Like, on your left lie the majestic ranges of the Garhwal Himalayas as well as the peaks of the Kumaon Himalayas. Enjoy the view, click pictures and soak in the successful completion. Now prepare for the descent.
Follow the same trail you used to reach the top. Descending is riskier when you are walking on ridges due to slippery trails. This is where your trekking poles will come in use.
The path will lead you to Thal Tok, and after you cut across Thala Kharak meadow, enter the forest area to reach Parava Thor. This is where your camp is going to be.
Rest for the day and get yourself ready for the next day descent.

Day 7: Departure from Gogina to Kathgodam

Drive distance: 265 km, around 10 to 11 hours

How does your last day look?

Enjoy the last breakfast and meal with your fellow traveler friends and reminisce about the memories with each other.

Thin Air Expedition arranges the traveler well in advance for your way back to Kathgodam from Gogina.

Ranthan Trek: Risks and Preparation

The maximum altitude of the Ranthan Kharak Trek is 12,887 ft, which can cause symptoms like dizziness, fatigue and altitude sickness. Weather is unpredictable in mountainous areas; sudden rain, snowfall and drops in temperature are common. The access to medical facilities is limited, and rescue can be delayed due to remote terrain; however, the trek leader at Thin Air Expedition always carries first aid kit with them to help you with the above-mentioned sickness. During the rain, trails and rocky paths can be slippery. You may encounter wildlife during the journey, as the trek passes through a dense forest area.

Take a day’s rest; acclimatize well before getting on to the trail to avoid dehydration, as high altitude increases that risk. Stay away from alcohol and smoke during the trek. Monsoon seasons are generally not suggested for the trek; however, if you plan a trek during this season then book your adventure with a trusted and certified trek leader. Even if you are planning a solo trek, the trekking agency takes you with a group to ensure your safety while respecting your privacy.

Although trek leaders carry a first aid kit with them, keep your medications and prescriptions with you throughout the trek.

Trekking offers you tranquility and connects you with nature. However, it is important to understand that keeping a check on yourself is not just trekking agency’s responsibility but yours also. Listen to the guidelines given by your trek leader before the journey begins and follow the instructions throughout your trek. Stay on the trail all the time, respect locals and their culture, and learn your emergency contacts.

Inclusions

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.