Announcement: Fixed departure groups for 
And also, trekkers will come across the sacred places, temples and quaint monuments on the way. During the summer season, this region remains at full bloom! The lush wide meadows, verdant forests and the view of high Himalayas make this trek really a picturesque one and great for nature lovers.
Hindu Mythology
On Nandi Kund trek get a chance to visit Madhyamaheshwar it is one of those five sacred places where Lord Shiva appeared in front of Pandavas.
The legend says that Lord Shiva was hiding from the 5 brothers because they did not want to forgive the”m for the sin which they committed it was killing their own brothers “Kauravas” in Mahabharata.
So, he disappeared from the shrine and appeared from the ground but in 5 parts of a bull and Madhyamaheshwar is the stomach and navel in Lingam’s form which is worshipped by the devotees.
Why Choose Nandi Kund Trek?
Get spellbinding sight of Chaukhamba peaks, Mandani, Neelkanth and Panpatia glacier. Pass through verdant forests, wide meadows and explore a variety of Flora and Fauna on the way.
Witness and visit sacred Hindu sites, especially Madhyamaheshwar which is also the main part of Panch Kedar yatra. Nandi Kund trek is great not only great for nature and adventure but also for devotees come across the sacred places, temples and quaint monuments on the way
Near Nandi Kund is a small Nanda Devi’s temple, you can see swords present there which are believed to be of Pandavas.
Nandi Kund Trek Complete Guide
Our mission has always been to ensure that no trekker steps into the Himalayas without the right perspective. A trek is not just a checklist of summits; it is a serious commitment to the outdoors. Having the right information is what separates a reckless climb from a soulful journey.
This section serves as your definitive manual for the Nandi Kund Trek. We have distilled years of mountain experience and real-time feedback into this guide to give you a clear, honest picture of the trail.
We provide this depth of information because we want you to be more than just a visitor—we want you to be a prepared, responsible trekker who respects the mountains as much as we do.
Day 1 – Dehradun to Mansuna via Ukhimath
Day 2 – Drive from Mansuna to Uniana and trek to Bartoli
Day 3 – Trek from Bantoli to Madhya Maheshwar and a visit to Budha Madhya Maheshwar
Day 4 – Trek from Madhya Maheshwar to Kachani Dhar
Day 5 – Trek from Kachani Dhar to Kachani Tal and trek to Pandav Shera
Day 6 – Trek from Pandav Shera to Nandi Kund
Day 7 – Trek from Nandi Kund to Gad
Day 8 – Trek from Dwari Gad to Dhaula Udiyar
Day 9 – Trek from Dhaula Udiyar to Bantoli
Day 10 – Trek from Bantoli to Uniana and Drive to Ukhimath
Day 11 – Ukhimath to Dehradun
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11
Day 1: Dehradun to Mansuna via Ukhimath
Total distance – 250 km | Time taken – 8/9 hours
The vehicle will be arranged from Dehradun Railway Station and the departure time is 6:30 am. The drive to Mansuna is through some sacred as well as picturesque towns of Devprayag, Rudraprayag & Ukhimath.
The journey is 8 to 9 hours long so have breakfast and lunch en route. Today, the arrangements will be made in a hotel at Mansura. Enjoy your overnight stay there.
Day 2: Drive from Mansuna to Uniana and trek to Bantoli
Total distance – 15 km (Drive) 11 km(Trek) | Time taken – 1 hour (Drive) 5/6 hours (Trek)
Start your day young; have breakfast at Mansuna and get in the taxi to reach Uniana which lies 15 km away. Today is the first trekking day which is an eleven km trek to Bantoli.
Have lunch on the way, take short breaks in between and reach Bantoli. Pitch your tents there and enjoy overnight stay in tents.
Day 3: Trek from Bantoli to Madhyamaheshwar and a visit to Budha Madhya Maheshwar
Trek Distance – 8 km (Trek) | Time Taken – 4/5 hours
After an early breakfast at Bantoli leave to Madhya Maheshwar, the trek is long and a little tough because of the steep ascent. Madhya Maheshwar is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva.
According to the legend it is built by the Pandavas and navel of the bull which is a form of Lord Shiva that is worshipped in this temple. Reach there in the afternoon and then visit Budar Kedar which is also a pilgrimage site. Interestingly, the shivling present there is the biggest one in Northern India.
Do visit Aarti in the evening there then head towards your camps and comfortably stay there.
Day 4 : Trek from Madhyamaheshwar to Kachani Dhar
Total distance – 10 km | Time taken – 5/6 hours
Post breakfast at Madhyamaheshwar start trekking to Kachnai Dhar which is your campsite for today. The trek to Kachnai Dhar is 10 km long and covering the distance will take 5/6 hours. lunch will be provided, halt for some time and have it on the way. The trail is a combination of some ascents and descents. Reach your campsite, explore the area and retire for the night.
Day 5: Trek from Kachani Dhar to Kachani Tal and trek to Pandav Shera
Total distance – 16 km | Time taken – 6/7 hours
Today, the trek is from Kachnai Dhar to Kachnai Tal and further to Pandav Shera. These places in Garhwal Himalayas have stories steeped in Hindu mythology which are from the era of Mahabharata. It is believed that Pandavas lived here for long.
The trek from Kachnai Dhar to Kachnai Tal is a short one because the distance is 2 km. Reach there, relish the beautiful sight and spend some time there. Afterward go further to Pandav Shera, the trek is 14 km long, so have lunch on the way.
After a long tiring trek reaches the campsite, relax there, wait for sumptuous food to be served and then retire for the night.
Day 6: Trek from Pandav Shera to Nandi Kund
Total distance – 6 km | Time taken – 3/4 hours
Post breakfast, leave to Nandi Kund. It is an attractive 1.5 km long glacial lake located at a very high altitude of 4,805 m. Start trekking from Pandav Shera through wide meadows and dense forests. Cross some steep ascents and descents. Reach Nandi Kund and get the pleasure to camp near this extremely beautiful glacial lake. Enjoy your dinner and comfortably stay in tents for the night.
Day 7 : Trek from Nandi Kund to Dwari Gad
Total distance – 12 km | Time taken – 5/6 hours
Have breakfast early at your campsite and leave early for Dwari Gad because the distance is 12 km and the trail is steep through verdant dense forests and wide beguiling meadows.
Reach Dwari Gad, your campsite for today. It is a beautiful place to spend time in serenity, explore the surroundings and after you have food, comfortably sleep in tents.
Day 8 : Trek from Dwari Gad to Dhaula Udiyar
Total distance – 13 km | Time taken – 5/6 hours
Post breakfast, the trek starts to Dhaula Udiyar which lies 13 km away from Dwari Gad. The distance is long and the trek isn’t an easy one so packed lunch will be provided.
Pass through dense forests and witness a variety of Flora and Fauna on the way. And, also take short breaks on the way. Reach Dhaula Udiyar, set up your camps and retire for the night.
Day 9 : Trek from Dhaula Udiyar to Bantoli
Total distance – 14 km | Time taken – 6/7 hours
Today is the second last day of your trek, enjoy trekking through forests and stare at the high Himalayas. After having breakfast, leave early in the morning because the distance from Dhaula Udiyar to Bantoli is 14 km long.
Have lunch on the way. Bantoli is the same campsite which was on your day second. So, enjoy your overnight stay here in tents.
Day 10 : Trek from Bantoli to Uniana and Drive to Ukhimath
Total distance – 11 km (Trek) 35 km (Drive) | Time taken – 5/6 hours (Trek) 2 hours (Drive)
Today you will be staying in Ukhimath which a very famous and sacred town in Uttarakhand. After breakfast, start the trek from Bantoli to Uniana which can be reached in 5 to 6 hours after covering the distance of 11 km.
From Uniana vehicle will be arranged till Ukhimath, you can have lunch on the way. After a 35 km long drive reach this beautiful town and get in the arranged hotel. Comfortably relax and spend your night there.
Day 11 : Ukhimath to Dehradun
Total distance – 220 km | Time taken – 8/9 hours
Today you will be staying in Ukhimath which a very famous and sacred town in Uttarakhand. After breakfast, start the trek from Bantoli to Uniana which can be reached in 5 to 6 hours after covering the distance of 11 km.
From Uniana vehicle will be arranged till Ukhimath, you can have lunch on the way. After a 35 km long drive reach this beautiful town and get in the arranged hotel. Comfortably relax and spend your night there.
Level:Difficult
Proper conditioning & training of body required
Need proper gear & clothing for sub-zero temperature.
Shoes are the single most important equipment.
High Altitude requires proper acclimatization.
Beautiful landscapes so carry good photo gear & Extra battery backup.
Travel light
The backpack should not exceed 10kgs.
Best Season: May, June, September, and October
How To Reach Dehradun railway Station for Nandi Kund Trek?
Reaching Dehradun is the first step in your journey to the Nandi Kund Trek. Here are several ways to get to Dehradun, depending on your starting point:
1. By Air
- Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) is the nearest airport, located about 25 km from Dehradun city center.
- Flight Details: You can book direct flights to Dehradun from major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and others.
From Airport to Dehradun
- Taxi Services: Taxis are available at the airport for hire to take you to Dehradun city or directly to your accommodation.
2. By Train
- Train Station: Dehradun Railway Station is well-connected with major cities across India.
- Train Travel: You can take trains from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and others. Popular trains include the Nanda Devi Express, Dehradun Shatabdi, and Mussoorie Express.
- Travel to City Center: The railway station is located close to the city center, making it easy to reach hotels and other accommodations.
3. By Bus
- Bus Services: Dehradun is well-connected by road, and many private and government buses operate from nearby cities, especially Delhi.
- From Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate: You can catch a bus to Dehradun from ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi. Buses include both AC & Non-AC options.
- Travel Time: The journey typically takes around 6-8 hours depending on traffic.
- From Other Cities: Similar bus services are available from cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Mussoorie.
4. By Car
- Self-Drive: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car or drive your own. The distance and approximate travel time are as follows:
- From Delhi: ~ 250 km, about 6-8 hours via NH 44 and NH 7.
- From Haridwar: ~ 50 km, about 1.5 hours via NH 58.
- From Rishikesh: ~ 35 km, about 1 hour via NH 7.
5. Transportation Within Dehradun
- Local Transport: Once in Dehradun, you can use local taxis, auto-rickshaws, or ride-sharing services to reach your accommodation or transport hub.
Essential Gear for the Nandi Kund Trek Packing List
1. Trekking Gear & Bags
- Main Backpack (50–60 Liters): Must have good hip support and a rain cover.
- Daypack (20 Liters): Essential if you plan to offload your main bag; carries water, snacks, and a jacket.
- Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for stability on snowy slopes.
2. Clothing (The Layering System)
- Base Layer (2-3 Pairs): Quick-dry, moisture-wicking thermals (top and bottom).
- Mid Layer (2): Fleece jackets or sweaters for insulation.
- Outer Layer (2): A high-quality padded down jacket (rated for -10°C).
- Trekking Pants (2): Water-resistant and windproof pants. Avoid jeans at all costs.
- T-shirts (3): Collared, full-sleeve dry-fit tees to prevent sunburst on the neck.
3. Footwear & Socks
- Trekking Boots: High-anchor, waterproof boots with good grip Decathlon Forclaz or similar MH 100) Asain, Jonmart hiking Shoes .
- Woolen Socks (4 Pairs): For sleeping and extra warmth at night.
- Cotton Socks (4 Pairs): For trekking during the day.
4. Headwear & Accessories
- Sun Cap: To protect against UV rays during the day.
- Woolen Cap/Balaclava: Must cover your ears to prevent heat loss.
- Neck Warmer/Buff: Protects your face from cold winds.
- Gloves: One pair of fleece liners and one pair of waterproof outer gloves.
- Sunglasses: Polarized/UV protected to prevent snow blindness.
5. Personal Hygiene & Toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and Lip Balm.
- Moisturizer and Sanitizer.
- Toilet paper and Biodegradable wet wipes.
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and a small quick-dry towel.
6. Health & First Aid
- Personal Medikit: Band-aids, crepe bandage, and antiseptic.
- Anti-Altitude Sickness: Diamox (consult your doctor first).
- Pain Relief: Volini spray or Moov.
- Water Purification: Tablets or a LifeStraw.
Quick Tips for a Successful Trek with Himalayan Hikers
- Hydration: Drink at least 3/4 liters of water daily to help with acclimatization.
- Batteries: Cold drains phone and camera batteries fast. Keep them inside your sleeping bag at night to keep them warm.
- Eco-Friendly: "Pack it in, pack it out." Don't leave any plastic on the trail.
Must-Have Medicines for Nandi Kund Trek
1. Altitude & Breathing
- Diamox (Acetazolamide): The most common medicine for AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). It helps your body acclimatize faster.
- Note: Start a preventive dose only after consulting your doctor, as it is a diuretic.
- Camphor (Kapur): Carrying a small pouch of camphor to smell can help some people feel more comfortable while breathing in thin air.
2. Pain & Inflammation
- Combiflam / Ibuprofen: For muscle aches, joint pain, or body fever after a long day of climbing.
- Dolo 650 (Paracetamol): For mild fever or headaches (often a first sign of dehydration or AMS).
- Diclofenac Gel/Spray (Volini/Moov): Essential for calf muscle cramps or knee pain during the descent.
3. Digestive Health (Very Important)
- Digene / Pudin Hara: For acidity or bloating caused by heavy meals at high altitudes.
- Ondem (Ondansetron): For nausea or vomiting (common symptoms of altitude sickness).
- Eldoper / Nor-Metrogyl: For loose motions or stomach infections.
- ORS / Electral: To prevent dehydration. Mix one sachet in your water bottle every day.
4. Respiratory & Cold
- Ascoril/Alex Syrup (or Lozenges): For "Khonchi" (dry mountain cough) caused by cold, dry air.
- Cetirizine / Okacet: For allergic reactions or a runny nose.
- Avomine: If you get motion sickness during the bumpy 10-hour drive from Dehradun to Sankri.
5. First Aid Basics
- Band-aids & Cotton: For small nicks.
- Crepe Bandage: In case of a minor ankle sprain on the snowy trail.
- Betadine/Dettol: Antiseptic for any cuts.
- Anti-fungal Powder: To keep your feet dry and prevent fungal infections from wet socks.
Mandatory Documents
- Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc.
- Passport and Visa important to foreigners.
- Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker.
Declaration Certificates
Note: Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry. It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.
6-Week Plan specifically tailored for Himalayan Hikers requirements.
1. Himalayan Hikers Fitness Criteria
Himalayan Hikers emphasizes that a trekker should be able to cover a certain distance comfortably to ensure they don't get exhausted before the summit.
- The Benchmark: Cover 5 km in 30 to 35 minutes.
2. The 6-Week "Himalayan Hikers" Training Schedule
Weeks 1-2: Base Building (The "Startup" Phase)
- Running: 3 days a week. Run/Walk 3 km.
- Strength:
- Knee Pushups: 3 sets of 15 (Total 45).
- Half Squats: 4 sets of 18 (Total 72).
- Plank: 2 sets of 30 seconds.
- Focus: Getting the heart rate up and opening the lungs.
Weeks 3-4: Endurance Loading (The "Intermediate" Phase)
- Running: 4 days a week. Increase distance to 4.5 km.
- Strength:
- Forward Lunges: 3 sets of 15 reps per leg.
- Half Squats: 4 sets of 20.
- Plank: 3 sets of 40 seconds.
Himalayan Hikers Tip: Start walking with your actual trekking shoes once a week to break them in and avoid blisters on the trek.
Weeks 5-6: Peak & Approval (The "Summit" Phase)
- Running: 4 days a week.
- Target: 5 km in 32-35 minutes.
- Strength:
- Stair Climbing: Climb 3-4 floors 5 times. (Excellent for the Kedarkantha summit slope).
- Knee Pushups: 3 sets of 20.
- Plank: 1 set of 90 seconds (or 3 sets of 30s).
- Proof: Ensure you have recorded at least 3-4 successful 5km runs on your app.
3. Modified Exercise Breakdown
| Exercise | Target for Kedarkantha | Himalayan Hikers Logic |
|---|---|---|
| Jogging / Running | 5 km (35 mins) | Ensures your heart can handle low oxygen at 12,500 ft. |
| Knee Pushups | 45 Reps (3×15) | Builds shoulder strength for your 10kg rucksack. |
| Half Squats | 72 Reps (4×18) | Protects your knees during the steep descent from the summit. |
| Forward Lunges | 30 Reps (Total) | Essential for balance on slippery “Hard Ice” patches. |
| Planks | 1 Minute (Total) | Keeps your posture straight while climbing with a backpack. |
4. Himalayan Hikers Prep
- Sankri (Base Camp): This is where your oxygen levels and fitness will first be checked.
- Micro spikes & Gaiters: Himalayan Hikers usually provide these. Your training (specifically lunges) will help you walk comfortably while wearing this extra weight on your feet.
- Hydration (The 4L Rule): Himalayan Hikers guides are very strict about water. Practice drinking 3-4 liters of water during your training weeks.
- AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness): If you are fit, your body uses oxygen better, significantly reducing your chances of headaches or nausea at the summit.
5. What to show the Himalayan Hikers Team:
- Strava/Nike Profile: A screenshot or link showing you have been active for at least 4 weeks.
- Medical Certificate: Unlike just fitness apps, Himalayan Hikers requires a signed Medical Fitness Certificate by a doctor.
- Consistency: Show them that you didn't just run once, but you have been "Trek-Fit" for a month.
This is a suggestion that will help you on your trek, but if you are generally fit and healthy, you can prepare according to your own preferences.
Why Himalayan Hikers is the Safest Choice for Nandi Kund Trek
At Himalayan Hikers, your safety is not just a protocol. it is our heritage. With over 35 years of experience and our roots in Sankri, we provide a level of security that only locals can offer.
1. Elite Safety Standards
- NIM Certified Leaders: Our trek leaders are certified from the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM). They are experts in high-altitude rescue and wilderness first aid.
- Daily Health Checks: We conduct twice-daily health screenings using Oximeters and BP Monitors to track your oxygen saturation and pulse.
- Emergency Oxygen & Kits: Every batch carries portable Oxygen Cylinders and a comprehensive medical kit stocked with essential high-altitude medicines.
- Technical Gear: We provide high-quality Micro-spikes (Crampons) for grip on slippery snow and Gaiters to keep snow out of your boots.
2. Premium Accommodation (Hotels & Tents)
- Basecamp Stay: Unlike crowded guest houses, we provide comfortable stays in our Himalayan Hikers Hotel/Homestay. You get clean rooms, warm hospitality, and a chance to experience authentic Garhwali culture.
- High-Altitude Camping: We use Premium 4-Season Tents designed to withstand heavy snowfall and bone-chilling winds.
- Insulated Bedding: To ensure a warm sleep in -10°C, we provide high-quality sleeping bags rated for extreme temperatures, along with thick foam mats for extra insulation.
3. Reliable Transport Services
- Dehradun to Sankri: We provide pickup and drop services from Dehradun Railway Station Safe Mountain Driving: Our drivers are locals who are experts at navigating the winding, snow-covered roads of the Himalayas.
- Vehicle Fleet: We use comfortable and well-maintained vehicles like Tempo Travelers, Ertiga Taxi, ensuring a smooth 8-10 hour journey to the base camp.
4. Nutritious & Fresh Meals
Note - We Five three meals a day including snacks and soup. A variety of delectable and healthy food is provided which includes: Indian, Chinese and other Western meals. They are nutritious and keep you fit and healthy on the trek (veg food or Jain food & Egg) Daily fruits keep your energy levels high. Hygiene First: Our kitchen staff follows strict hygiene standards, ensuring clean drinking water (boiled/filtered) at all campsites.
What is Included In This Trek?
Transport Facility Dehradun To Dehradun
Forest Permit and entrance fee
Accommodation in tents on twin share basis
All meals: breakfast, packed lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, soup and dinner
(All camping gears)
High quality tents
Sleeping bags
Mattress
Liner
Pillow
Separate Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents
Dining Tent
Dining Table
Porters
Helper
Mules
Kitchen team
Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication
Good Experience Trek Leader guide and Technical guide
Medical Kit
Oxygen Cylinders
Crampons and Gaiters
What is Not Include In This Trek?
Personal Insurance
Medical Certificate
Personal toiletry Items and Personal Medicine kit
On first day En Route to base camp the Breakfast and Lunch are Not Included
Last Day En Route Lunch and Dinner are Not Included
Important Note
No important note.
Map not available for this trek.
No FAQs available for this trek.
.webp)
