Pindari Glacier

Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go- T.S Eliot

Just like the old travelers we went away with the roads instead of a destination and the result was the Pindari Trek. It was actually a surprise trip and trekking to a glacier was nowhere close to what we have planned. A simple road trip completely changed into a strenuous high altitude trek, which was beautiful yet horrifying. Horrifying because we were going to face freezing temperature, inadequate food, long stretch of uneven raw roads or no roads at all.

 We live w/o electricity, networks & humans and just on the mercy of nature. But this is what makes a journey more cherishable and unforgettable. 

It was late December and a complete off season for a glacier trek in Himalayas. This year was even more dangerous because Pindari river (a tributary of Ganges) has washed up the roads and bridges in the entire valley, an easy trek is now a long, unfriendly wild stretch. Unpredictable snowfall was even more challenging and our under preparation to beat all makes us a pawn in the hands of nature. Still by the God’s grace we managed to take the trek and returned home safe. 
It started from the banks of Kosi in Ramnagar

Next halt was Kausani and then Bharadi via Kapkote village below.

We’re told that roads ahead are not drivable and they were so right. We take a shared 4x4 wheel drive and this 40 km stretch take more than 4 hours. We were driven over rocks, water, mud and the speedometer struggled to go beyond 15km/hr, holding a stationary position in this wobbly affair was vain. Somehow the roller-coaster ride ended and we were happy to walk next 5 five km stretch upto a post card village Khati. 

Only BSNL networks and no electricity but we’re at peace on the lap of Himalayas.

We take full rest but can’t help staring at the distant peak of Mt. Nanda Koti for long hours.

Next day trek begin after a some breakfast and now there will be no network coverage. Initially the trek was good.

But soon it changed dramatically due to landslides and flashfloods of June’13

We reached Dwali by evening which is located at a confluence of river Pindari and kafni

We halt for the night and without any air and light pollution we can actually see the million stars.

We begin our final stretch towards Pindari glacier from Dwali where Mt. Nanda Devi East can be seen at distance. 

The trek was enchanting with rivers and waterfalls by our side.

Within no time  we hit the snowline

Someone was there too…

Trek was steep, but Mr. guide did not let us take rest

Few Kms later the snowfall which was playing hide and seek from a day before came with a full swing and while we were left just  6 km short of reaching the zero point we have to adjourn due to heavy snow.

With a heavy heart we take a u-turn only to complete the journey later.