The Rupin Supin Himalayan Trek
Offbeat Himalayan Trek in the "Abode of Gods" – Rupin Supin Trek
Rupin Supin Trek nestled in the grandeur of the Himalayas, Uttarakhand is known as “Dev Bhoomi” – The Abode of the Gods. If Lord Shiva had to choose a place to live, Uttarakhand would surely be his choice.
Uttarakhand offers everything a nature lover desires – forests, mountains, lakes, rivers, vast meadows, and rich flora and fauna. The hilly terrain provides endless opportunities for mountaineering, trekking, and rock climbing.
A trek in this state had always been on my bucket list. When the opportunity came, I chose the Rupin Supin Trek, a moderate trek in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. This offbeat trail takes you through pristine landscapes over four to five days.
Day 1 – Journey from Dehradun to Netwar
Our journey began in Dehradun at 6 AM. After a six-hour drive through scenic mountain roads, we reached Netwar. Along the way we passed three beautiful rivers – Tons, Rupin, and Supin. The landscape was filled with pine, birch, and deodar trees along with apple and pear orchards.
Bhitri Village – First Village of the Trek
Our drive ended at Bhitri village (1554 m). This small hamlet has wooden houses on stilts, a temple, and a lively cricket culture among the village children.
The village is mainly dependent on agriculture and cattle rearing. Despite limited healthcare and sanitation facilities, the people are warm and welcoming.
That night we enjoyed a delicious homemade meal of local rotis, rice, and dal.
Day 2 – Ascent to Badang Thach
The trek started at 8:15 AM after meeting our guide Sanju, cook Santu, and the mule handler who carried supplies and tents.
The trail passed through apple orchards and steep climbs. We learned quickly that maintaining a steady pace and controlling our breathing was essential at higher altitudes.
After trekking about 8 km in 4.5 hours, we reached Badang Thach (2000 m). The campsite overlooked lush meadows with wild horses grazing nearby.
Life of the Nomadic Gujjars
We met a Gujjar family living nearby. These traditional shepherds migrate seasonally with their livestock including sheep, goats, horses, and cattle.
They live a nomadic lifestyle, grazing livestock in the mountains during summer and returning to the plains in winter.
We shared food with them and enjoyed fresh homemade curd prepared over a wood fire.
Day 3 – Climb to Vijay Top
The third day was the most challenging as we planned to cover 12 km. The climb to Vijay Top (around 4000 m) was the highlight of the trek.
The trail passed through streams, forests, meadows, and colorful wildflowers. Clouds rolled across the sky while the distant Himalayan peaks appeared and disappeared in the mist.
After reaching Vijay Top, we descended to our campsite at Pachi Thach (3000 m).
Day 4 – Challenging Descent
The next morning we began our descent from Pachi Thach. The trail passed through dense forests filled with moss-covered trees, mushrooms, and vibrant flowers.
The descent was steep and exhausting. My knees and toes took a heavy toll as we carefully navigated slippery trails.
Eventually we reached a small village near a government school where we camped for the night while rain poured continuously.
Day 5 – Return to Sankri Village
On the final day we trekked towards Sankri village. Heavy rains had made the trails muddy and difficult.
After trekking a few kilometers we took a local Bolero jeep for the remaining journey.
The drive along the Tons River was thrilling. Local villagers, farmers, and students joined the ride, demonstrating the cooperative mountain culture where everyone helps each other.
We finally reached Sankri Village by noon and later drove back to Dehradun.
Heroes of the Trip
Our cook, guide, and mule handler were the real heroes of the journey. Their efficiency, dedication, and calm attitude made the trek safe and memorable.
My Five Takeaways
- Watch every step: One wrong step can lead to trouble.
- Be in the moment: Enjoy the views and the beauty around you.
- Patience is a virtue: Maintain a steady pace and conserve energy.
- Breathe properly: Controlled breathing helps avoid altitude sickness.
- Be meditative: Balance movement, breathing, and focus.
Confession
Before the trek I had many doubts – would I be able to complete it? But once the trek began, all that mattered was the next step forward.
Fact Box
- Total distance trekked: 32 km (over 100,000 steps)
- Best time to visit: April–May or September–October
- Essentials: Hiking shoes, light jackets, and minimal backpack weight
- Toilet tents: Be prepared for basic facilities during trekking
Special thanks to Mrs. Maha and Mr. Srikanth Natarajan for sharing their wonderful Rupin Supin and Vijay Top trekking experience.
The Rupin-Supin Trek turns every step into a memory of the mountains.