Ranthan Kharak Trek

Day 1: Drive from Kathgodam Railway Station to Gogina Base Camp

Altitude Gain: 1,818 ft to 6,415 ft | Drive Distance: 235 km | Drive Duration: 10 to 11 hours | Overnight Stay: Homestay/Tents | Pick-up point for Himalayan Hikers trekkers: Kathgodam Railway Station at 6:00 am | Route: Kathgodam → Almora → Bageshwar → Kapkot → Gogina

Reach the Ranthan Kharak Trek Pickup Location, Kathgodam Railway Station, at 6:00 am. The Himalayan Hikers team will receive you there and brief you about the trek. Then the journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathgodam through the Kumaon hills to reach Gogina village, which serves as our base camp for the Ranthan Kharak.

Day 2: Trek from Gogina to Namik Campsite

Altitude loss and gain: 6,415 ft to 5,938 ft to 7,390 ft | Trek distance: 6.5 km | Duration: 6 hours | Trek Difficulty: Easy-moderate | Overnight Stay: Tents, Namik Campsite

The first day of trekking features a sharp descent from Gogina to Ramganga river, followed by a steep ascent through forests to reach Namik village. This day gives trekkers a taste of the varied terrain that characterizes the Ranthan Kharak trek.

Day 3: Trek from Namik Campsite to Bajimanian Kharak

Altitude gain: 7,390 ft to 9,690 ft | Trek distance: 5.4 km | Duration: 6-7 hours | Trek Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Overnight Stay: Tents, Bajimanian Kharak

Enjoy a gradual ascent through lovely forest sections and experience your first “Kharak” (clearing/meadow). The day’s trek offers beautiful landscapes with moderate effort required.

Day 4: Trek from Bajimanian Kharak to Thal Tok

Altitude gain: 9,690 ft to 11,130 ft | Trek distance: 5 km | Duration: 6-7 hours | Trek Difficulty: Moderate | Overnight Stay: Tents, Thal Tok

The trail features a gradual ascent followed by an exciting ledge walk towards beautiful meadows. The climb intensifies from the meadow as you approach the moraine region of Thal Tok, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Day 5: Trek from Thal Tok to Namik via Ranthan Top

Altitude gain and loss: 11,130 ft to 7,390 ft by 12,887 ft | Trek distance: 14.2 km | Duration: 11-12 hours | Trek Difficulty: Moderate | Overnight Stay: Tents, Namik Campsite

The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Navigate rocky and bouldery terrain with a steep ascent to Ranthan Top (12,887 ft), the highest point of the trek. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Panchachuli, and Trishul. After soaking in the views, begin a steep descent back to Thal Tok, cross the ledge traverse, and continue a gradual descent to Namik campsite.

Day 6: Trek from Namik to Gogina

Altitude loss: 7,390 ft to 6,415 ft | Trek distance: 6.5 km | Duration: 3-4 hours | Trek Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Overnight Stay: Tents, Gogina Campsite

Complete the circuit by taking the reverse route from Namik. The day involves a steep descent to the Ramganga suspension bridge, followed by an ascent to Gogina village basecamp. This shorter day allows time to explore the village and rest after the previous day’s long trek.

Day 7: Drive from Gogina to Kathgodam 

Drive distance: 235 km | Duration: 10-11 hours | Drop point for Himalayan Hikers trekkers: Kathgodam Railway Station

After breakfast, the Himalayan Hikers team will host a certification and photography session to celebrate completing the Rathan Kharak Trek. Following that, we’ll start our journey back from Gogina village to Kathgodam train station, bringing this incredible Himalayan adventure to a close. You will reach the Ranthan Kharak Trek Drop Location by 8:00 pm, so book your return tickets accordingly. 

The Ranthan Kharak Trek difficulty level is rated as moderate difficulty, making it ideal for fit beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The trail involves a mix of gradual ascents, forested paths, ridge walks, and high-altitude sections, with the maximum elevation reaching around 12,887 feet at Ranthan Top, which is the highest point of the Ranthan Kharak trek.

This trek doesn’t require technical mountaineering skills, but it demands good cardiovascular fitness and physical strength for sustained hiking and 6 to 7 hours of average walking per day. The terrain includes forest trails, rocky ridges, and open meadows (kharaks), with some exposed sections along the ridgeline.

Key Difficulty Factors of Ranthan Kharak Trek

1. Altitude: Although the elevation is not extreme compared to some treks in Uttarakhand, altitude sickness can still be a concern after 8,000 feet. It’s important to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.
2. Terrain: The trail varies from well-marked forest paths and stone-paved village routes to rocky ridges and exposed meadows. Trekking poles and sturdy trekking shoes are essential gear. Some sections can be slippery during early summer or post-monsoon months.
3. Weather: Weather in the Himalayas can shift quickly. Cold nights, especially at higher camps, and sudden rain or snow showers can increase the challenge. Layered clothing and good rain gear are must-haves.
4. Remote Location: This is a less-frequented trek, so amenities are limited. There are few shelters or tea houses, and trekkers rely mostly on camping. It’s essential to go with a guided team or ensure proper logistical support.

Is the Ranthan Kharak Trek safe for me? 

Yes, the Ranthan Kharak is generally safe for trekkers who are physically fit, well-prepared, and travel with a reliable trekking team. While it is a moderate-level trek, it does not involve technical climbing or dangerous terrain. The trail passes through forested areas, ridgelines, and open meadows, which can become slippery during rain or snow. 

However, doing the Ranthan Kharak trek with an organized group can enhance your safety and overall trekking experience. If you are trekking with Himalayan Hikers, then you are in good hands. Because every trekking group of Himalayan Hikers is well organized by experienced guides and professional trek leaders and equipped with proper logistics, camping and trekking gear, high-altitude medical kit, and Oxygen cylinders to ensure your safety. 

Emergency Exit Options on the Ranthan Kharak Trek

In case of an emergency, the quickest evacuation route is to descend toward Gogina and continue to Bageshwar, the nearest roadhead. It takes roughly a day to reach either Namik or Gogina. An alternative and shorter exit is available via the ridge trail from Thal Tok, which leads directly to the border of Namik village.

Nearest Hospitals to the Ranthan Kharak Trek

In the event of a medical emergency during the Ranthankharak Trek, the nearest hospital is located in Bageshwar, which serves as the primary access point for basic medical care. For more advanced treatment or specialized facilities, you may need to travel further to Almora or Haldwani, where larger hospitals and better-equipped healthcare centers are available.

At Himalayan Hikers, we prioritize your well-being and are fully prepared to manage emergencies with trained staff, first-aid kits, and evacuation support. However, we believe that safety is a shared responsibility. Your active participation, staying aware, following your trek leader’s guidance, and respecting altitude and terrain challenges, is essential.

With cooperation and preparedness on both sides, we can ensure that your trekking experience is not only safe but also enriching, empowering, and unforgettable.

The Ranthan Kharak Trek in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon Himalayas offers an incredible mix of alpine meadows, ridge walks, and snowy massifs of the Nanda Devi, Panchachuli mountain range. But your trekking experience may vary according to what time of the year you do this trek. The best time to visit Ranthan Kharak trek is from March to June and September to October only. That’s because heavy rainfall during the Monsoon and snowfall during the winter season make the entire trek inaccessible even for professional trekkers. 

Spring Awakening (March to April): Best for Snow Lovers & Rhododendron Blooms

• Weather: Cold, crisp days; sub-zero nights
• Day/Night Temperatures: 10°C (day) to -2°C (night)
• Difficulty: Moderate due to snow patches and colder nights
• Warm Layers Needed: 4–5 layers

Why Do Ranthan Kharak Trek In Spring?

If you love the snow, then come to Ranthan Kharan in March and April because this is when the Ranthan Kharak trail wakes from its winter slumber. This is the time when Rhododendrons start to bloom. You can see the red ones in the lower regions of Ranthan Kharak and as you climb up, the Rhododendron changes its color from red to pink. 

After Thal Tok, you’ll cross snow patches that haven’t yet melted, creating surreal landscapes where forests and snow meet. Perfect for trekkers who want snow without extreme winter conditions, and who enjoy crisp air and early blooms. However, night temperatures can be harsh, so warm layering and a good sleeping bag are essential.

Summer Serenity (May to June): Best for Meadows & Panoramic Views

• Weather: Pleasant days, cool nights
• Day/Night Temperatures: 15–20°C (day) to 2°C (night)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Warm Layers Needed: 3 layers

Why Do Ranthan Kharak Trek In Summer?

As May arrives, the last of the snow begins to melt near Ranthan Top, revealing expansive alpine meadows and clear, walkable ridgelines. This is a fantastic time for beginners, photographers, and those looking to experience the true Himalayan landscape without snow obstacles. You walk on the stone-paved trails and listen to songs from nearby birds. But there is one particular birdsong that rules the heart of the entire north India. It’s the Indian Cuckoo, a shy bird that sings one of the most beautiful songs, asking another Kaphal Pakya? And if you try to imitate its sound, it gets involved with you. 

The days during this time of the year are warmer and the skies are clearer than the spring. As you reach the Ranthan top you get to see astonishingly beautiful panoramas of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kote, Panchachuli, Mrigthuni, Dang Thayal, and more. 

Pro Tip: Himlayas are known for their dramatic weather, that’s why make sure to carry a poncho to protect yourself from occasional rainfall. 

Autumn Gold (September to October): Best for Clear Skies & Ridge Walks

• Weather: Dry, sunny days and cold nights
• Day/Night Temperatures: 12–18°C (day) to 0°C (night)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Warm Layers Needed: 4–5 layers

Why Autumn season the best time for Ranthan Kharak Trek?

Post-monsoon, the air turns sharp and the skies blaze blue. With lush meadows, dry trails, and unbeatable visibility, autumn is one of the best times to do Ranthan Kharak trek. The ridge walks feel endless under golden skies, and the mountain views stretch for miles. 

But the views of the night sky are totally something else. You can see the constellations rolling up behind Nanda Devi and other mountains. “I had a chance to spend a night at Bajimanian Kharak campsite, a New Moon night (Amavas), and boy! That was one of the best nights I had spent under the open starry sky.”  

Monsoon and Winter: Not Recommended

• July to August: Trails become muddy and unsafe due to landslides and leeches.
• November to February: Heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and trail closures make this a non-operational season unless you’re part of a winter expedition team.

Whether you’re chasing spring snow, summer sun, or autumn skies, the Ranthan Kharak Trek offers something unforgettable in every recommended season. Choose based on what excites you most from blooming forests, alpine meadows, or dramatic ridgelines.

Month	Temperature Range (Day/Night)	Trail Condition	Recommendation	Special Notes
March	10°C / -2°C	Snow patches, cold mornings	For snow lovers with good cold tolerance	Rhododendrons start blooming; the trail can be slippery at higher altitudes
April	12–15°C / 0°C	Mixed snow and dry trail sections	Great balance of snow and clear skies	Peak bloom season; carry 4–5 warm layers
May	15–18°C / 2°C	Mostly dry with melting snow	Ideal for first-timers and photographers	Alpine meadows begin to open, with clearer ridge views
June	18–20°C / 4°C	Dry and stable	Best for a smooth trekking experience	Warmest month on trail; lighter layers needed
July–August	18–22°C / 6°C	Wet, muddy, and a risk of landslides	Not recommended	Monsoon season, leeches and trail blockages are common
September	15–18°C / 2°C	Dry, post-monsoon freshness	Excellent for clear views and stable weather	Meadows are lush; great time for ridge photography
October	12–16°C / 0°C	Crisp, clear, starting to cool down	Highly recommended for scenic beauty	Early snow may appear near Ranthan Top
November	10°C / -2°C	Snow may begin, and colder nights	For experienced trekkers only	Shorter days, cold camps; final safe window before winter
December–Feb	5–10°C / -5°C to -10°C	Heavy snow and blocked trails	Trek not operational	Trek usually closed; extreme cold and inaccessible routes

The Ranthan Kharak Trek Distance is 38 km, which begins from the scenic and remote village of Gogina, nestled in Uttarakhand’s Bageshwar district. To reach this beautiful but offbeat trailhead, trekkers must first arrive at Kathgodam Railway Station before 6:00 am, one of the main transit hubs for trekking in the Kumaon region. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you plan your journey:

1. Reach Kathgodam Railway Station 

The Kathgodam Train station serves as the Ranthan Kharak trek pickup location for trekkers. The Himalayan Hikers, or your chosen trek operator, will arrange transportation from here to the Ranthan Kharak trek base camp at Gogina village.

• Pickup Time: You will need to reach Kathgodam Railway Station before 6:00 am. You can arrive in Kathgodam the night before or early morning to avoid delays.

2. How to Reach Gogina Base Camp from Kathgodam

• Ranthan Kharak Trek Distance from Kathgodam to Gogina is 235 km, which takes about 10 to 11 hours by road. 
• Trek Route: Kathgodam → Almora → Bageshwar → Kapkot → Gogina
• Mode of Transport: Shared jeep or private vehicle arranged by the trek operator
• Road Condition: Mostly hilly and winding roads; scenic views

Pro Tip: Gogina is a remote Himalayan village with limited network connectivity. So, stock up on essentials, and collect sufficient cash from Bageshwar or Kapkot.

3. How to Reach Kathgodam from Delhi

By Air

• Nearest Airport to Kathgodam: Pantnagar Airport (70 km from Kathgodam)
• Flight Options: Limited flights from Delhi (check updated schedules in advance)
• Taxi from Pantnagar to Kathgodam: about 2 hours by cab

Pro Tip: Alternative Option: Delhi Airport (300 km). Most trekkers fly into Delhi Airport and travel to Kathgodam by overnight train or bus.

By Train

Kathgodam Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata.

Popular Trains to Kathgodam:

• Ranikhet Express (15013/15014): From Delhi (overnight)
• Kathgodam Shatabdi (12040/12039): From Delhi (morning, faster)
• Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti (15035/15036): From Delhi (afternoon)

Pro Tip: Book tickets early during trekking seasons (March–June, Sept–Oct)

By Road

• From Delhi to Kathgodam: Around 300 km (8–9 hrs)
• Ranthan Kharak Trek Route by road: Delhi → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam

Vehicle Options:

• Private taxi or shared cab.
• Volvo or Deluxe buses (available from ISBT Anand Vihar, Delhi to Haldwani/Kathgodam).
• Haldwani is 5 to 6 km from Kathgodam and has more accommodation and food options. 

Pro Tip: Make sure you reach the Himalayan Hikers pickup location (Kathgodam Railway Station) before 6:00 am.

Mobile Connectivity and ATMs for Ranthan Kharak Trek 

ATM Availability

The last reliable ATM point is in Bageshwar, which is en route to the Gogina village basecamp. So, make sure to withdraw sufficient cash if you have not done so in Kathgodam or Almora. Because the ATM availability beyond Bageshwar is scarce, and often out of cash. 

Mobile Network Connectivity

Staying connected during the Ranthan Kharak Trek can be challenging, as the route takes you deep into remote Himalayan terrain where mobile infrastructure is limited. You will get good network coverage from Kathgodam to Bageshwar. Airtel, Jio, and BSNL work reliably along the highway. But as you leave Bageshwar, the network connectivity becomes highly unreliable. 

Network Connectivity During the Trek: Once the trek begins from Gogina base camp, you’ll be largely off the grid. There is no reliable mobile connectivity in most parts of the trail. Occasionally, at higher ridgelines, you may catch a very weak BSNL signal, but it is too inconsistent to rely on for calls or messages.

Pro Tip: Before leaving Bageshwar, inform your family or emergency contacts that you’ll be unreachable during the trek. The Himalayan Hikers Trek leaders usually carry emergency communication equipment such as walkie-talkies or satellite devices for team coordination and critical situations.

 

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.

Necessary Items for trekkers

Basic Trekking Gears

The Clothes You Should Bring On Satopanth Expedition

Head Gears

Foot Gears

Personal Care Essentials

Carry a Personal Medical Kit

Are you Looking for Trekking Equipment on Rent?

If any trekker requires trekking equipment on rent, Himalayan Hikers offers the best-quality gear available for rental. Many individuals are in need of such equipment, and renting provides a cost-effective solution, allowing them to access high-quality gear at an affordable price without the need for a significant investment for short-term use.

Trek Equipment You can book directly on first day at the Base Camp.
Note:- Please take all medicines only when prescribed by the doctor. In case you face any problem during your trek, discuss and take advice from the Professional guide.

Himalayan Hikers is a reputable trekking company that places a high priority on safety. Here are some of the safety measures they take to ensure the safety of their clients during the Trek:

Experienced Guides: Himalayan Hikers hires experienced and certified guides who are well-versed in the terrain, weather conditions, and local culture. These guides have first-hand knowledge of the routes and are equipped to handle any emergency situations that may arise.

Proper Gear: The company provides all the necessary gear and equipment to their clients to ensure comfort and safety during the trek.

Hygiene and Sanitation: Himalayan Hikers places great emphasis on hygiene and sanitation during the Trek. They provide clean drinking water, hand sanitizers, and toilet tents to ensure that their clients are healthy and comfortable.

Emergency Services: The company has a well-defined protocol for handling emergency situations. They have a team of trained medical professionals who are available 24/7 and can be quickly mobilized in case of an emergency.

Acclimatization: Himalayan Hikers follows a gradual acclimatization process during treks to ensure that their clients adjust to the high altitude gradually. They also monitor the health of their clients regularly and provide necessary medical attention if required.

Overall, Himalayan Hikers places a great emphasis on safety and takes all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients during treks.