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THRILLING FAMILY ADVENTURES IN CHOPTA VALLEY AND JAYALGARH
- Region - Uttarakhand
- Base Camp - Kund
- Duration 5 days
- Altitute 4000m
- Stay Rooms/Tents
- Difficulty Moderate
Detail itinenary
A drive of 6-7 hours from Haridwar through the winding hilly roads and we are in the Mandakini Valley. After lunch and some relaxation time, it’s time to hit the Mandakini River with our water activities team. A short hike to the Mandakani River and birding on this day will keep us enthralled. Under expert guidance we indulge in river crossing that feels less daunting. The day closes as you soak in the success of your tryst with the river. Overnight in lodge.
After breakfast we set out on the hike to the beautiful Deoria Tal Lake. We first drive to the village of Sari (45 mins) and from here trek to the spectacular lake. Village life, wooded trails, lush flora and the backdrop of the Chaukhamba peak keep you company through this trail along with tips from our expert. We will arrive at the lake for lunch and spend the afternoon in the riveting natural surroundings. A rewarding 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges and especially the towering Chaukhamba peak that feels at arm’s length and the reflection of the peaks in the clear waters of the lake make this trek well worth the effort. A small games session keeps the energy level of the group amped, and then we head back to Sari. From here we drive back to the lodge and make a small detour en route to visit the Ukhimath temple. This beautiful temple is the winter seat of the Kedarnath deity and is an important stop on the Char Dham yatra. The influence of South Indian architecture can be clearly seen in the temple, something to boast about when you get back to school!! At the lodge, we reminisce about the day and then get back to our rooms for a well-earned night’s rest. Overnight in lodge.
In the morning, we have an early breakfast and say goodbye to the team at the lodge before setting off on our drive to Chopta. From here, we drive (45 mins) to the famous ‘Mini-Switzerland of India’, Chopta, known for a variety of avian life. We spend a large part of the day here, either relaxing in the meadows or hiking up to the Tungnath temple, which takes about 4-5 hours for the complete trek. For those of you who like an extra challenge, you can also trek up to Chandrashila, which is another hour from Tungnath temple. Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world. Estimated to be more than 1000 years old, it is rich with history; it is said that the Pandavas of Mahabharata visited the region centuries ago. From Chopta we continue our drive to Kund. We enjoy the evening under the star-spangled sky followed by dinner. Overnight in the lodge.
This morning we head to Jayalgarh camp, which takes about 3-4 hours drive. This day is reserved for all things water – think duckie rides, cliff jumping and body surfing. All this will be done with our experienced river guides. After an exhausting day in the crystal clear waters of the Alaknanda, a hearty barbeque fare will be perfect to close. Live music keeps you company as the night sky takes over. Overnight in tents.
We reserve the best for the last. A rafting trip and bridge slithering down the Alaknanda River is a perfect way to end the trip. The trip comes to a close after breakfast, as you prepare to check out. Transfers will be arranged as per prior booking to Haridwar/Dehradun.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Spectacular locations of both lodge and camps
- Hiking in the lush green meadows of Chopta
- Exciting water activities like Rafting, Duckie Rides, bridge Slithering, etc on Alaknanda
- 360 degree view of towering Himalayan peaks
- High altitude Himalayan lake, Deoria Tal
- Highest Shiva Temple, Tungnath
This is an idyllic trip for all ages to get acquainted with the magnificent Himalayas and splendours of outdoors. Hike to the high altitude Himalayan lake, Deoria Tal is completely enthralling with trail weaving through lush flora and offering the view of Chaukhamba Peak. Arriving at Deoria Tal is a rewarding experience where one can capture the reflection of the towering Chaukhamba Peaks in the clear waters of the lake. Rejuvenate in lap of nature as you take a breath of fresh mountain air amidst the splendid surrounding and breathtaking mountain views. Based in Garhwal, Chopta is considered as the Mini Switzerland of India.
Bestowed with scenic charm, the rich flora and fauna in the region is a complete delight to witness. Witness the picturesque views of undulating meadows and soaring Himalayan peaks. Here, you have the opportunity to hike up the highest Shiva temple in the world, Tungnath that stands at an altitude of 3680m. Apart from this, one can treat their eyes with the majestic views of Himalayan peaks including Bandarpoonch, Chaukhamna and Kedar. About a kilometre from Tungnath is the Chandrashilla (4000m ) summit that offers spectacular views of snow clad peaks. In Jayalgarh you can capture the exquisite views of Himalayas and also the pleasing natural spectrum. Jayalgarh is action packed with exciting activities that include water activities. All along you would have our experts taking you through the intricacies of each activity to make it more fun and enjoyable.
Sketch Itinanery
DAY 1: Haridwar/ Dehradun Airport - Kund(1300m) ( Drive/6- 7 Hrs)
DAY 2: Kund- Deoria Tal (2438m)- Ukhimath(1311m) - Kund ( Drive/ 1. 5 Hrs & Trek / 3- 4 Hrs)
DAY 3: Kund – Chopta(2680m)- Tungnath(3680m) – Chandrashila(4000m) –Kund Drive/ 1 .5 Hrs & Trek/ 4- 5hrs)
DAY 4: Kund – Jayalgarh(600m) ( Drive/ 3- 4 Hrs)
DAY 5: Jayalgarh – Haridwar / Dehradun Airport ( Drive/ 3-4 Hrs)
Detail itinenary
A drive of 6-7 hours from Haridwar through the winding hilly roads and we are in the Mandakini Valley. After lunch and some relaxation time, it’s time to hit the Mandakini River with our water activities team. A short hike to the Mandakani River and birding on this day will keep us enthralled. Under expert guidance we indulge in river crossing that feels less daunting. The day closes as you soak in the success of your tryst with the river. Overnight in lodge.
After breakfast we set out on the hike to the beautiful Deoria Tal Lake. We first drive to the village of Sari (45 mins) and from here trek to the spectacular lake. Village life, wooded trails, lush flora and the backdrop of the Chaukhamba peak keep you company through this trail along with tips from our expert. We will arrive at the lake for lunch and spend the afternoon in the riveting natural surroundings. A rewarding 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges and especially the towering Chaukhamba peak that feels at arm’s length and the reflection of the peaks in the clear waters of the lake make this trek well worth the effort. A small games session keeps the energy level of the group amped, and then we head back to Sari. From here we drive back to the lodge and make a small detour en route to visit the Ukhimath temple. This beautiful temple is the winter seat of the Kedarnath deity and is an important stop on the Char Dham yatra. The influence of South Indian architecture can be clearly seen in the temple, something to boast about when you get back to school!! At the lodge, we reminisce about the day and then get back to our rooms for a well-earned night’s rest. Overnight in lodge.
In the morning, we have an early breakfast and say goodbye to the team at the lodge before setting off on our drive to Chopta. From here, we drive (45 mins) to the famous ‘Mini-Switzerland of India’, Chopta, known for a variety of avian life. We spend a large part of the day here, either relaxing in the meadows or hiking up to the Tungnath temple, which takes about 4-5 hours for the complete trek. For those of you who like an extra challenge, you can also trek up to Chandrashila, which is another hour from Tungnath temple. Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world. Estimated to be more than 1000 years old, it is rich with history; it is said that the Pandavas of Mahabharata visited the region centuries ago. From Chopta we continue our drive to Kund. We enjoy the evening under the star-spangled sky followed by dinner. Overnight in the lodge.
This morning we head to Jayalgarh camp, which takes about 3-4 hours drive. This day is reserved for all things water – think duckie rides, cliff jumping and body surfing. All this will be done with our experienced river guides. After an exhausting day in the crystal clear waters of the Alaknanda, a hearty barbeque fare will be perfect to close. Live music keeps you company as the night sky takes over. Overnight in tents.
We reserve the best for the last. A rafting trip and bridge slithering down the Alaknanda River is a perfect way to end the trip. The trip comes to a close after breakfast, as you prepare to check out. Transfers will be arranged as per prior booking to Haridwar/Dehradun.
Departure Dates
Departure Dates
Reviews
PAYMENT TERMS & CONDITIONS
- All payments for the trips, transfers, porterage, etc. should be made in full before the trip starts.
- Cancellation Policy: In the event that you need to cancel your booking due to any avoidable or unavoidable circumstances:
- We must be notified of the same in writing. Cancellation charges will be effective from the date we receive the request in writing. Any cancellation sent on a Sunday or any National Holiday(s), will be considered on the next official working day.
- Payment for this trip will not be adjusted towards any future trip(s)
- In the event of any cancellation(s) after trip commencement, there will be no refunds and any costs incurred due to this cancellation will be borne by you.
- Irrespective of when a trip is booked, the above condition will hold true
- Cancellation charges will be as follows
- >45 Days: Full refund (after deducting any expenses that have been incurred for hotel bookings, transport, etc.)
- 30-45 Days: 75% of trip cost will be refunded (after deducting any expenses that have been incurred for hotel bookings, transport, etc.)
- 15-30 Days: 50% of trip cost will be refunded (after deducting any expenses that have been incurred for hotel bookings, transport, etc.)
- <15 Days: No refund
VITAL INFORMATION
WEATHER DETAILS
This snow trek is organized between Dec & mid-March when the region has had good snowfall. Contrary to the popular belief winters is a good time to be in the mountains if one is equipped properly. Most locals inhabiting higher reaches of the mountains don’t mind the problems associated with snowfall and seem to have a good time during these months. Also there are lots of local festivals in these months. In these months weather is generally clear most of the days. Day time is normally pleasantly warm with one getting to enjoy sitting out in the sun. Temperature would be around 12-17 °C. Evenings are quite cold and one would need to be inside a tent/room or sitting outside next to fire with proper winter clothes. The evening temperatures will be around – 3 to 5 °C. Nights can be very cold with temperatures in the range of – 8 to 0 °C.
Please keep in mind that the above information is not exact and does not account for sudden changes. Whatever the temperatures and conditions rest assured we will be prepared to handle it with ease as we use equipment of very high specifications.
LIST OF ESSENTIALS
It is very important for this adventure trip that you need to be equipped properly and with a bit of back up. Mountain/adventure travel requires one to be adequately equipped with the right kind of personal gear. Since one is travelling in the wilderness there will be hardly any opportunity to buy anything once you hit the trail so we urge you to carefully pack everything into your bags.
- T-shirts (Full) – 2/3
- Warm shirt/light micro fleece pullover/full sleeve T shirt
- Trekking Pants (water resistant/repellent & having inside lining for extra warmth) - 2
- Windproof/water resistant outer shell (jacket) of good quality (no flimsy wind cheaters please!) with a proper hood
- Down jacket with min 600 fill power rating
- Thick Fleece / Full-sleeve Woollen sweater
- Thermal inner wear (upper & lower)
- Woollen cap (Balaclava)
- Inner fleece gloves
- Outer water proof gloves
- Thick woollen socks & regular socks (4 – 5 pairs)
- Scarf/muffler (optional)
- Comfortable waterproof (Goretex) Trekking/Hiking shoes (shoes with a thick sole and high ankles are recommended)
- Camp shoes (these can be easy to slip in sneakers/sport shoes)
- Gaiters
- Raincoat / Poncho
- Small light weight towel
- Insulated water bottle & hydration pack (optional)
- Cap / floppy hat to keep the strong sun away from your face
- Sun glasses with UV protection and ability to cut the glare (imp when traversing through snow)
- Sturdy walking stick / Trekking pole
- Sunscreen Lotion
- Lip Balm
- Torch / Flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Medicines, if requiring any specific medication
- Personal toiletries
- Book, if you like reading
- Day pack/small bag which you will carry on your back every day and keep your essentials in it
- Carry rain cover for your bags
- Keep a few poly bags or waterproof bags in your bag in which if required you can put your belongings in case of heavy rain
- Camera if you like (with fully charged batteries)
- …LOADS OF ENTHUSIASM!! AND A PLEDGE TO LEAVE NO TRACE
Carry your stuff in a duffel bag, soft shoulder bag or a rucksack. Avoid suitcases, trolleys or any other hard luggage. As you will be walking long distances carrying a rucksack, avoid bringing unnecessary items on the trek. Please avoid carrying expensive watches, jewellery and electronic items on the trek.
NOTE: In case you are planning to put your bag on a mule or taking a porter please get a duffel bag or rucksack and keep it in mind that there is a possibility that the bag at times might brush against a rock or a tree and get slightly damaged so don't get very expensive bags. Also in case of damage we shall not be held accountable.
TRANSPORT OPTIONS (DELHI – DEHRADUN – DELHI)
For travel to Dehradun/Haridwar/Haridwar, one can choose between air, rail & road. For air travel, the closest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) and is well connected to Delhi and other parts of the country by Air India, Jet Airways, GoAir & Spice Jet. Train travel is highly recommended with enough options being there. For train details, you could log on to www.indianrail.gov.in and for online railway ticket bookings you could log on to www.irctc.co.in.
There are frequent Public Transport buses including Volvos available from Delhi to Dehradun that cost about Rs. 300 - 800 per person. These buses depart from Delhi ISBT every 30 mins to 1 hr or so and take about 4/5 hrs to cover the distance. The same is also applicable on the return journey. A private vehicle could also be arranged for if you require the same.
OUR TREKKING CODE
We are mountain lovers and have pledged to bring no harm to them in our pursuit of running organised wilderness travel in the Himalayas and seek your assistance too in this regard. We are more than convinced that one can have more fun on a trip if we go about it in a way that no harm is caused to the ecology. In this regard we have a set of guidelines that we adhere to based on the tenets of 'Leave No Trace' & 'Tread Light' policies. These guidelines are very simple and emphasise on travelling in small groups, better planning, understanding impact of camping, proper waste disposal, respecting local cultures, sensitivity towards wildlife and so on. We have a complete section on our trekking code in the 'GIO trekking Manual'. This manual will be couriered to you once you confirm a trip with us.
ACCLIMATISATION & HIGH ALTITUDE SICKNESS
This is one of the most important aspects of traveling in the high Himalayas and cannot be ignored or set aside. Acclimatization basically means our body adjusting to lower levels of oxygen (rarefied air) & reduced air pressure as me move up. In case one does not acclimatize properly there are chances of the person facing extreme discomfort and this can be fatal in extreme cases. While there is no set route to getting properly acclimatized there are general precautions and steps that one can take to initiate good acclimatization. Our trekking guides will assist you with these steps and also once you book a trip with us the 'GIO Trekking Manual' which will cover this aspect extensively will be couriered to you. This is sure to help you enjoy the trek in very good shape.
SELECTING THE RIGHT TREK & TRAINING FOR IT
Most important thing is to select the right trek keeping in mind your experience or inexperience, health, objectives & ability. Our senior team people can assist you with this, so when contacting us do mention if you need guidance on this front also refer to our trek grading system mentioned below. Once the right trek is selected comes your preparation. Once you have booked a trip with us we will courier the 'GIO Trekking Manual' to you which will have a complete practice drill explained in detail.
TREK GRADING SYSTEM
We have broadly classified our treks as below:
Easy: These treks are 3 to 5 days long and involve walking for about 3/4 hrs daily. The trail on such treks is well defined but not always flat. These are great for families and first-timers
Moderate: On these treks, one is not required to trek for more than 5/6 hrs a day. Also the terrain is not too difficult. These treks are normally a week or so long. For these treks, prior trekking experience is not necessary. Very rarely on these treks would one camp at altitudes higher than 3800m. These treks are great for first-timers or for veterans wanting to go on a trail which is relatively less demanding
Moderate+: These are moderate treks with mostly one difficult day. These trails are fine for fit beginners also.
Vigorous: On these treks one can be required to trek continuously for more than a week through remote areas and at times trekking for more than 7 hrs a day. On most of these treks one has to cross passes or areas which are snow-covered and involve camping at an altitude of more than 4000m. Fit people with some kind of hiking experience & a spirit of adventure can contemplate going on these trails.
Strenuous: These treks apart from having continuous trekking stretches are at places technical and might require assistance from trip leader/guide and other staff people. All these treks have rest days in between. Also, all of them involve crossing passes or areas having an altitude of more than 4500m. First-timers are discouraged from walking such routes.
Expedition Style: These involve long walks at high altitudes at times around 6000m. Camping can also be well over the snow line and on glaciers at times. Safety ropes, ice axes, and crampons might be required on these treks. These treks are not technically very difficult but are considerably challenging. Previous vigorous/strenuous trekking experience is required.
DISCLAIMER
Great Indian Outdoors (P) Ltd. takes utmost care to ensure the safety of its clients. However, in the case of any unforeseen mishaps, Great Indian Outdoors (P) Ltd. will not be liable for any injuries caused or for loss of life. All disputes rising due to the above are subject to the jurisdiction of the courts in New Delhi/Delhi only. All participants would be required to sign an Indemnity Form before the start of the program, without which they would not be allowed to take part in the trip/program/activities.
Recognised by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India as an Approved Adventure Tour Operator
Contact Us
GIO Adventures Pvt. LtdDehradun - Uttarakhand
- +91-7895979211
- info@gio.in