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Gupt Khal Trek
Back to Expeditions
RegionGarhwal Himalayas
The Mastiff Series · 2025/26

Gupt Khal Trek

The secret pass of the Garhwal Himalayas

Expedition Brief

The Gupt Khal Trek is a highly challenging expedition located in the Garhwal region of the Indian Himalayas, primarily in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district. Known for its remote, rugged glacial terrain, stunning views, and spiritual significance, it is ...

Altitude5,800 m (Gupt Khal Pass)
Duration13 Nights / 14 Days
DifficultyDifficult
Best SeasonMay – June, September – October
StatusOpen for Booking
Next DepartureSpring 2026
Secure Spot
Overview Background
The Overview

About The
Expedition

The Gupt Khal Trek is a highly challenging expedition located in the Garhwal region of the Indian Himalayas, primarily in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district. Known for its remote, rugged glacial terrain, stunning views, and spiritual significance, it is strictly recommended for highly experienced trekkers and mountaineers. The trail crosses massive glaciers, snowfields, and icy ridges, offering a true test of physical and mental endurance amidst the towering peaks of the Greater Himalayas.

Guide Note

Demands very high fitness, mountaineering skills, and experience with technical equipment. Requires crossing glaciers and snowfields.

Expedition Price

₹85,000

Key Highlights

01

Cross the elusive Gupt Khal Pass at 5,800 m

02

Traverse massive glaciers including Nakthani and Bankund

03

Spectacular views of Hathi, Ghodi, Mana, and Kamet peaks

04

Expedition-style trekking in remote Garhwal wilderness

05

High altitude camps amidst snowfields and moraines

06

End the trek at the holy town of Badrinath

Expedition Data

Max Altitude5,800 m (Gupt Khal Pass)
Duration13 Nights / 14 Days
Distance~80 km
DifficultyDifficult
Best TimeMay – June, September – October
StartJoshimath / Ghamsali
EndBadrinath
Min Age24 years
RegionGarhwal Himalayas
Rugged mountain terrain on the Gupt Khal approach
Dense forest trail leading to Gupt Khal
Glacial lake encountered along the Gupt Khal route
Alpine meadow with towering peaks in background
High-altitude pass crossing on the Gupt Khal trek
Ultra-wide panorama from the Gupt Khal ridgeline
Serene forest trail along the Gupt Khal route
Mountain expedition team on the challenging terrain
8 Frames
The Journey

Day by Day .

14 days of traverse through changing landscapes. From dense forests to alpine meadows and snow-capped passes.

1

Dehradun to Joshimath

1,875 m
295 km drive
9-10 hours

Drive from Dehradun to Joshimath. Briefing and equipment check in the evening. Overnight in a guest house.

2

Joshimath to Ghamsali

3,380 m
65 km drive
3 hours

Drive to Ghamsali village in the Niti Valley. This is the starting point of the trek. Overnight in tents/homestay.

3

Ghamsali to Eri Udiyar

3,880 m
8 km
5-6 hours

Begin the trek with a gradual ascent through the valley. Camp at Eri Udiyar.

4

Eri Udiyar to Ratanban Glacier Camp

4,200 m
7 km
5-6 hours

Trek towards the Ratanban Glacier. The terrain becomes rockier as you approach the glacial zone.

5

Ratanban Glacier to Bankund Lake

4,480 m
6 km
5-6 hours

Cross the challenging glacial terrain to reach the beautiful high-altitude Bankund Lake.

6

Bankund Lake to Bankund Bend

4,800 m
5 km
4-5 hours

Continue ascending through the glacial moraines to Bankund Bend.

7

Bankund Bend to Garh Snow Field

5,260 m
6 km
6-7 hours

A steep climb takes you to the vast Garh Snow Field. Camp on snow.

8

Garh Snow Field to Gupt Khal Base Camp

5,700 m
5 km
4-5 hours

Move to the base of the pass. The altitude is significant here, and acclimatization is key.

9

Acclimatization / Reserve Day

5,700 m

Rest day to acclimatize and prepare for the summit push. Essential for safety.

10

Base Camp to Gupt Khal Pass to Nakthani Glacier

5,800 m
8 km
8-9 hours

Summit day. Climb to Gupt Khal Pass (5,800 m). Enjoy panoramic views before descending to Nakthani Glacier.

11

Nakthani Glacier Camp to shepherd camp

4,200 m
10 km
6-7 hours

Descend through the glacier and moraines to the meadows of Bhuinguza.

12

shepherd camp to Khirao

3,000 m
12 km
6-7 hours

Continue the descent to Khirao, entering vegetation zones again.

13

Khirao to Badrinath

3,300 m
8 km trek + drive
4-5 hours

Trek to the roadhead and drive to Badrinath. Celebrate the completion of the expedition.

14

Badrinath to Dehradun

300 km drive
10 hours

Drive back to Dehradun. End of tour.

The Contract

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Covered

  • All meals on the trek
  • Forest permits & camping charges
  • High-quality alpine tents, sleeping bags, mats
  • Technical equipment (ropes, crampons, ice axes)
  • Experienced trek leader and support staff
  • First aid and oxygen cylinder

Not Included

  • Transportation to/from base
  • Meals during travel
  • Personal gear and expenses
  • Insurance
  • Helicopter rescue
Gear List Background
The Locker

Essential
Gear Check

We don't compromise on equipment. This curated checklist ensures you are prepared for every condition the mountain presents.

Essential Trekking Gear

6 Items Required
Rucksack bag (50–60L) with rain cover
Day pack bag for summit day
Head torch with spare batteries
UV-protection sunglasses
Water bottles – 2 × 1 litre
Trekking poles (recommended)
Standard Mastiff Equipment Protocol
Fine Print

Policies &
Need-to-Knows

Transparency is key to a safe expedition. Please review these terms carefully before booking your slot.

Important

All cancellations must be communicated in writing. Refunds are processed within 7-10 working days.

  • Cancellations made 15–30 days before departure: 50% of total cost charged as cancellation fees.
  • Cancellations made within 0–15 days of departure: 100% of total cost charged as cancellation fees.
  • In unforeseen weather or government restrictions, the operator will try to provide an alternate. Cash refund will not apply.
  • Cancellation policies apply irrespective of the date of booking.
Background
The Mountains Are Calling

Begin Your
Ascent

The summit of Gupt Khal Trek awaits. Don't just dream of the view—stand there. Secure your place on our next expedition team.

Enquire

Send us a message via WhatsApp to check availability.

Schedule

Choose dates that align with your goals and our departures.

Secure

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