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Kagbhusandi Lake
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RegionGarhwal Himalayas
The Mastiff Series · 2025/26

Kagbhusandi Lake

A sacred glacial lake hidden deep in the Himalayas

Expedition Brief

Kagbhusandi Lake is a hidden gem nestled in the high Himalayas of Uttarakhand at approximately 5,020 m (16,470 ft). Named after the mythical bird 'Kagbhusandi' from Hindu mythology, the lake is considered deeply sacred by the locals. Its crystal-clea...

Altitude5,020 m (Kagbhusandi Lake)
Duration6 Nights / 7 Days
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonMay – June, September – October
StatusOpen for Booking
Next DepartureSpring 2026
Secure Spot
Overview Background
The Overview

About The
Expedition

Kagbhusandi Lake is a hidden gem nestled in the high Himalayas of Uttarakhand at approximately 5,020 m (16,470 ft). Named after the mythical bird 'Kagbhusandi' from Hindu mythology, the lake is considered deeply sacred by the locals. Its crystal-clear blue waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, glaciers and alpine meadows, creating a surreal visual spectacle. The trek passes through the Govindghat and Bhyundar Valley region — home to Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and elusive snow leopards. The challenging terrain demands good physical conditioning and prior trekking experience, rewarding those who persevere with one of the most pristine high-altitude landscapes in India.

Guide Note

Moderately difficult trek to summit. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are essential for altitudes above 5,000 m.

Expedition Price

₹45,500

+ 5% GST

Key Highlights

01

Sacred glacial lake at 5,020 m with crystal-clear blue waters

02

Named after the mythical bird Kagbhusandi from Hindu mythology

03

Rich biodiversity — Himalayan black bears, musk deer, snow leopards

04

Stunning reflections of surrounding peaks in the pristine lake

05

Trek through the beautiful Bhyundar Valley and alpine meadows

06

One of the most remote and untouched treks in Uttarakhand

Expedition Data

Max Altitude5,020 m (Kagbhusandi Lake)
Duration6 Nights / 7 Days
Distance~57 km
DifficultyModerate
Best TimeMay – June, September – October
StartGovindghat (via Rishikesh)
EndGovindghat
Min Age20 years
RegionGarhwal Himalayas
Crystal-clear waters of Kagbhusandi Lake reflecting peaks
Golden hour over Kagbhusandi Lake valley
Panoramic view of the sacred lake from the ridge
Evening light over the alpine meadows near Kagbhusandi
Vast mountain panorama from the Kagbhusandi trail
Trekkers approaching Kagbhusandi Lake campsite
Wildflowers and glacial streams near Kagbhusandi
Remote Himalayan terrain on the Kagbhusandi trek
Breathtaking view from the Kagbhusandi Lake ridge
9 Frames
The Journey

Day by Day .

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

1

Rishikesh to Govindghat

1,829 m
270 km
9–10 hours

The journey begins in the spiritual town of Rishikesh. Drive to Govindghat, a small town on the banks of the Alaknanda River. The scenic drive offers panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills, terraced farms and river valleys.

Alaknanda River valley drive
2

Govindghat to Roopdhungi / Kargila

3,100 m
12 km
6–7 hours

Trek through lush forests alongside the Alaknanda River. Roopdhungi is a beautiful campsite set amidst pristine natural surroundings — an excellent introduction to the terrain ahead.

Forest-canopied riverside trail
First campsite in the wilderness
3

Roopdhungi to Raajkharka

3,800 m
10 km
5–6 hours

Continue ascending through dense forests and open meadows. The views become progressively more dramatic as you gain altitude, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks appearing through the forest canopy. Raajkharka is a picturesque campsite with panoramic mountain views.

Alpine meadows emerge
Panoramic peak views
4

Raajkharka to Kagbhusandi Lake

5,020 m
8 km
4–5 hours

The highlight of the journey. As you approach the lake, the landscape transforms dramatically with vibrant alpine flora and crystalline blue skies. Kagbhusandi Lake itself is mesmerizing — set against towering peaks with waters so clear they mirror the mountains perfectly.

Sacred Kagbhusandi Lake
Mirror-like reflections of surrounding peaks
5

Kagbhusandi Lake to Simartoli / Kargila

3,200 m
15 km
7–8 hours

Begin the descent, taking in different perspectives of the landscapes traversed. Watch for wildlife along the way — the region is rich with Himalayan fauna. The long descent rewards you with varied terrain and vegetation zones.

Wildlife spotting opportunities
Diverse vegetation zones
6

Simartoli to Govindghat

1,829 m
12 km
6–7 hours

The final leg returns you to Govindghat. Reflect on the incredible journey through serene forests and river valleys, descending through familiar terrain with a renewed perspective. Rest and prepare for the return journey.

Reflective return trek
The Contract

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Covered

  • Accommodation (sharing basis in tents — triple & quad)
  • All meals on the trek
  • Sleeping bags & sleeping mattresses
  • Snow grips / microspikes & gaiters (as per conditions)
  • Experienced trek leaders & professional support staff
  • Forest permits

Not Included

  • Transportation (Rishikesh ↔ Govindghat)
  • Meals during transportation
  • Personal expenses of any kind
  • Unscheduled stays due to roadblocks, landslides or delays
  • Porter / mule charges for personal bags
  • Cost of evacuation in case of emergency
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions
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 Kagbhusandi Lake 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

Confirm your spot with a deposit. We handle the rest.

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