Sunderdhunga Valley Trek

Nestled alongside the more renowned Pindari and Kafni Glacier treks, the Sunderdhunga Trek stands out for its exceptional beauty and unspoiled wilderness. Often regarded as the most breathtaking of the three, this trek offers a rich and immersive journey through the diverse landscapes of the Kumaon Himalayas. The trek follows the Sunderdhunga River, tracing its course from Khati Village to its source high in the mountains. The trail winds through dense forests, home to a variety of wildlife, and passes through remote villages, untouched glaciers, and vast alpine meadows. Sunderdhunga promises a stunning variety of landscapes and experiences, packing more beauty into each kilometre than most other treks in the region. A Trek Steeped in Folklore: Local legend has it that a man, while washing his blanket in the Sunderdhunga River, stumbled upon a beautiful stone—perhaps gold. This story gave rise to the name Sunderdhunga, which translates to the “Valley of Beautiful Stones.” Whether the tale is true or not, the valley’s beauty is undeniable and continues to inspire trekkers to this day. Join Rock Lizard for an unforgettable journey through this hidden paradise, where each step reveals a new facet of nature’s grandeur.

Region

Uttarakhand

Start

Kathgodam

Finish

Kathgodam

Season windows

Autumn (Sept–Nov), Spring (Mar–May), Summer (May–Jul)

1. Day 1

   Drive from Kathgodam to Jaikuni Village

   2,100 m · 220 km

   Scenic drive through picturesque landscapes, passing through Bageshwar and villages on the route to Jaikuni. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.

2. Day 2

   Trek from Jaikuni Village to Jatoli

   2,400 m · 8 km

   Trek through dense forests, charming mountain villages, and along the banks of the Sunderdhunga River. Overnight camp in Jatoli.

3. Day 3

   Trek from Jatoli to Kathaliya

   3,200 m · 13 km

   Ascend through mixed forests and cross streams. Enjoy mesmerizing views of towering peaks as you approach Kathaliya. Overnight stay in tents at Kathaliya.

4. Day 4

   Trek from Kathaliya to Maiktoli Base Camp

   3,850 m · 8 km

   Trek to Maiktoli Base Camp with close-up views of Maiktoli Peak. Witness panoramic views of the surrounding mountains before returning to Kathaliya for the night.

5. Day 5

   Trek from Kathaliya to Baluni Top and back

   3,800 m · 7 km

   Climb to Baluni Top for spectacular sunrise views of snow-capped peaks. Return to Kathaliya after soaking in the beautiful vistas. Overnight stay at Kathaliya.

6. Day 6

   Trek from Kathaliya to Jatoli

   2,400 m · 13 km

   Descend back to Jatoli through alpine meadows and forest trails, retracing your steps. Overnight camp at Jatoli.

7. Day 7

   Trek from Jatoli to Jaikuni Village

   2,100 m · 8 km

   Final trek through forested trails back to Jaikuni Village. Enjoy your last night in the mountains with a homestay or guesthouse.

8. Day 8

   Drive from Jaikuni Village to Kathgodam

   220 km

   Drive back to Kathgodam, passing through scenic valleys and villages. End of trek.