Milam Glacier Trek

The Milam Glacier Trek in Uttarakhand is a scenic journey into the remote Johar Valley of the Kumaon Himalayas, starting from the mountain town of Munsiyari. The trail follows the Gori Ganga River through traditional Himalayan villages before reaching Milam Village, the last inhabited settlement in the valley. From here, a short trek leads to Milam Glacier at 4,250 meters, one of the largest glaciers in the Kumaon region and the source of the Gori Ganga River. Known for its peaceful landscapes, cultural heritage, and moderate trekking route, the Milam Glacier Trek is considered one of the most rewarding glacier treks in Uttarakhand.

  • Historic Milam Village Ruins – Explore the abandoned yet fascinating village of Milam, once a thriving hub on the Indo-Tibetan trade route, offering a glimpse into Himalayan history and heritage
  • Ancient Trade Route Experience – Walk along centuries-old paths once used by traders traveling between India and Tibet, adding a strong cultural and historical dimension to the trek
  • Diverse Terrain Transitions – Experience a constantly changing landscape—from dense forests and river valleys to high-altitude meadows and glacial terrain
  • Spectacular Glacier Views – Get up-close views of the massive Milam Glacier, with its dramatic ice formations, moraines, and surrounding peaks
  • High-Altitude Meadows (Bugyals) – Pass through beautiful alpine meadows that bloom with wildflowers during summer, creating vibrant natural scenery
  • Remote Himalayan Lifestyle – Interact with locals in isolated villages and understand the unique lifestyle, traditions, and resilience of mountain communities
  • Rugged Suspension Bridges – Cross thrilling hanging bridges over the roaring Gori Ganga River, adding an adventurous edge to the journey
  • Stunning Sunrise & Sunset Views – Witness magical golden-hour views over snow-clad peaks like Trishul and Nanda Devi East
  • Crystal Clear Night Skies – Enjoy breathtaking stargazing opportunities in the remote Himalayas, far from light pollution
  • Photographer’s Paradise – Every stretch offers postcard-worthy frames—rivers, glaciers, peaks, forests, and traditional villages
  • Flora & Fauna Diversity – Spot rare Himalayan species like bharal (blue sheep), Himalayan monal, and various medicinal plants along the trail
  • Glacial River Origins – Witness the source regions of the Gori Ganga, fed by the Milam Glacier, offering a raw and powerful natural experience
  • Offbeat & Raw Himalayan Adventure – Unlike popular treks, Milam remains untouched and less commercialized, giving a true wilderness feel
  • Spiritual & Serene Environment – The isolation and natural grandeur create a deeply peaceful and almost meditative trekking experience

Day 1: Arrival in Munsiyari (2,200 m)

  • Reach Munsiyari, the base camp
  • Enjoy stunning views of the Panchachuli peaks
  • Rest and acclimatization

Day 2: Munsiyari → Lilam (1,850 m)

  • Drive to road head (Dhapa/Jauljibi side)
  • Trek begins towards Lilam Village
  • Trail passes through forests and along Gori Ganga
  • Trek: 10–12 km (5–6 hrs)

Day 3: Lilam → Bogudiyar (2,500 m)

  • Narrow gorge trail with river crossings
  • Dense forests and waterfalls
  • Trek: 12–14 km (6–7 hrs)

Day 4: Bogudiyar → Rilkot (3,100 m)

  • Gradual ascent with widening valley views
  • Enter alpine terrain
  • Trek: 12 km (5–6 hrs)

Day 5: Rilkot → Milam Village (3,450 m)

  • Trek through scenic landscapes
  • Reach Milam, last inhabited village
  • Explore old houses and cultural remains
  • Trek: 10–12 km (5 hrs)

Day 6: Acclimatization at Milam

  • Rest day
  • Explore surrounding areas and interact with locals
  • Optional short hikes

Day 7: Milam → Milam Glacier (4,250 m) → Return to Milam

  • Early morning trek to glacier snout
  • Witness the massive glacier and ice formations
  • Return to Milam
  • Trek: 8–10 km round trip

Day 8: Milam → Rilkot

  • Begin return journey
  • Trek: 10–12 km

Day 9: Rilkot → Bogudiyar

  • Descend through scenic valley
  • Trek: 12 km

Day 10: Bogudiyar → Lilam

  • Retrace route through forests
  • Trek: 12–14 km

Day 11: Lilam → Munsiyari

  • Trek back and drive to Munsiyari
  • Relax and celebrate completion

Day 12: Departure

  • Return journey begins

Day 1: Arrival at Munsiyari (2,200 m)

  • Arrive at Munsiyari, a scenic hill town in the Kumaon region
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Panchachuli Peaks
  • Trek briefing, gear check, and documentation
  • Acclimatization walk around the village

 Overnight stay: Guesthouse/Homestay


Day 2: Munsiyari → Lilam (1,850 m)

Drive + Trek | 10–12 km trek | 5–6 hrs

  • Short drive to trek starting point (Dhapa)
  • Begin trek along the roaring Gori Ganga River
  • Trail passes through dense forests and narrow gorges
  • Reach Lilam Village, a small riverside settlement

 Overnight: Campsite


Day 3: Lilam → Bogudiyar (2,500 m)

Trek | 12–14 km | 6–7 hrs

  • Enter a dramatic gorge with steep cliffs and waterfalls
  • Cross wooden bridges and landslide-prone sections
  • Gradual altitude gain along the river valley
  • Reach Bogudiyar

 Overnight: Campsite


Day 4: Bogudiyar → Rilkot (3,100 m)

Trek | 12 km | 5–6 hrs

  • Valley opens up with expansive views
  • Transition from dense forest to alpine terrain
  • Cross meadows and streams
  • Reach Rilkot Village, a historic settlement

 Overnight: Campsite


Day 5: Rilkot → Milam Village (3,450 m)

Trek | 10–12 km | 5 hrs

  • Gentle ascent through wide valley
  • Stunning views of surrounding Himalayan peaks
  • Reach Milam Village, the last inhabited village in the valley
  • Explore abandoned houses and ancient Indo-Tibetan trade routes

 Overnight: Campsite/Homestay


Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Milam

  • Rest and acclimatization
  • Explore local culture and surroundings
  • Short hikes around the village
  • Preparation for glacier trek

 Overnight: Milam


Day 7: Milam → Milam Glacier (4,250 m) → Return to Milam

Trek | 8–10 km round trip | 6–7 hrs

  • Early morning start
  • Trek to Milam Glacier
  • Witness massive ice formations and glacier snout
  • Views of peaks like Trishul Peak and Hardeol Peak
  • Return to Milam

 Overnight: Milam


Day 8: Milam → Rilkot

Trek | 10–12 km | 5 hrs

  • Begin descent along the same trail
  • Enjoy changing perspectives of the valley

 Overnight: Campsite


Day 9: Rilkot → Bogudiyar

Trek | 12 km | 5–6 hrs

  • Descend through alpine to forest terrain
  • Follow the river trail back

 Overnight: Campsite


Day 10: Bogudiyar → Lilam

Trek | 12–14 km | 6 hrs

  • Retrace steps through gorge sections
  • Reach Lilam

 Overnight: Campsite


Day 11: Lilam → Munsiyari

Trek + Drive | 10–12 km trek

  • Final trek back to road head
  • Drive to Munsiyari
  • Trek concludes

 Overnight: Hotel


Day 12: Departure

  • Depart from Munsiyari for onward journey

By Air 

  • Nearest airport: Pantnagar Airport (~310 km)
  • From airport: Taxi to Munsiyari (10–12 hrs)

By Train 

  • Nearest railway stations:
    • Kathgodam Railway Station
    • Haldwani Railway Station
  • From there: Taxi/shared jeep to Munsiyari

By Road 

  • Well connected via:
    • Delhi → Haldwani → Almora → Pithoragarh → Munsiyari
  • Overnight buses available till Haldwani/Almora
  • Final stretch via taxi/shared jeep

Booking and Payment:

  1. Booking Confirmation:
    • Confirmation of the booking is subject to the availability of slots and resources.
  2. Payment Schedule:
    • A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure the spot.
    • Full payment must be received before the commencement of the trek.
  3. Payment Methods:
    • Accepted payment methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards,UPI, and  any other specified means.

Cancellation and Refund Policy:

  1. Cancellation by Traveler:
    • Cancellation requests must be made in writing.
    • The deposit is non-refundable.
    • Cancellation charges increase as the departure date approaches.
  2. Cancellation by the Travel Company:
    • The travel company reserves the right to cancel or alter the trip due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a suitable alternative or a refund will be provided.
  3. Trek Itinerary and Inclusions:

    1. Itinerary Changes:
      • The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions, unforeseen events, or any other circumstances beyond the company’s control.
    2. Inclusions:
      • Clearly outline what is included in the trek package, such as accommodation, meals, transportation, trekking permits, guide services, camping equipment, and more.
    3. Health and Fitness:

      1. Physical Fitness:
        • Acknowledge that trekking involves physical exertion and travelers should be in good health.
        • It is the responsibility of the traveler to inform the company of any medical conditions or concerns.
      2. Altitude Sickness:
        • Highlight the risk of altitude sickness and the importance of acclimatization during the trek.

      Travel Insurance:

      1. Mandatory Insurance:
        • It is mandatory for all travelers to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.

      Equipment and Gear:

      1. Personal Equipment:
        • Provide a list of recommended personal trekking gear and equipment that travelers need to bring.
      2. Rental Services:
        • Specify if the company provides equipment rental services and associated costs.

      Code of Conduct:

      1. Responsible Trekking:
        • Emphasize responsible trekking practices, including leaving no trace, respecting local cultures, and following the Leave No Trace principles.

      Force Majeure:

      1. Unforeseen Events:
        • Clarify the company’s stance in case of unforeseen events such as natural disasters, political unrest, or any circumstances beyond control.

      Miscellaneous:

      1. Travel Documents:
        • Travelers must possess valid identification and any necessary permits throughout the journey.
      2. Pre-departure Briefing:
        • Highlight the importance of attending pre-departure briefings for safety instructions and trip details.
      3. Code of Conduct:
        • Clearly state the expected behavior of travelers, respecting local customs, fellow trekkers, and the environment.

      Legal Compliance:

      1. Legal Compliance:
        • Ensure that all travelers comply with local laws and regulations during the trek.

      These terms and conditions aim to provide clear expectations for both the travel company and the travelers, fostering a positive and organized experience throughout the Himalayan journey.