Kagbhusandi Taal Trek

The Kagbhusandi Lake or Khagbhusandi is a small emerald green lake situated at an altitude of 5,230 metres near Kankul Pass (5,230 m) almost a km in length. This lake is cocooned in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand state. It is a paradise for the nature lovers as they can admire the beauty of the sublime Neelkanth, Chaukhamba, Thailya Sagar, Brigupanth and Nar-Narayan Peaks during the trek.

High-Altitude Adventure
Trek to the breathtaking Kagbhusandi Lake at an elevation of 5,230 meters, making it one of the highest and most challenging treks in Uttarakhand.

Panoramic Himalayan Views
Enjoy stunning vistas of iconic Himalayan peaks like Neelkanth, Chaukhamba, Thalaysagar, Brigupanth, and Nar-Narayan throughout the journey.

Pristine Glacial Lake
Witness the crystal-clear emerald waters of the lake, beautifully reflecting the surrounding snow-covered mountains in a serene alpine setting.

Untouched Wilderness
Experience a raw and offbeat trail far from commercial trekking routes, offering pure Himalayan beauty and minimal crowd interference.

Mythological Significance
The lake is associated with the revered sage Kagbhusandi, believed to have taken the form of a crow, adding deep spiritual value to the trek.

Diverse Terrain
Traverse a wide range of landscapes including dense forests, alpine meadows (bugyals), rocky paths, glaciers, and high-altitude ridges.

Rich Flora & Fauna
Spot rare Himalayan birds, vibrant alpine flowers, and possibly wildlife like blue sheep in their natural habitat.

Remote Camping Experience
Camp in secluded high-altitude locations under clear, star-lit skies, surrounded by complete silence and untouched nature.

Glacier & Snowfield Encounters
Cross snow patches and witness ancient glaciers, even during summer months, enhancing the adventure factor.

Challenging Yet Rewarding
A demanding trek best suited for experienced trekkers seeking both physical challenge and unmatched natural beauty.

Spiritual & Scenic Proximity
Located near the sacred Satopanth Lake region, enriching the trek with both spiritual and geographical significance.

Peace & Solitude
Perfect for those looking to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Himalayas.

Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh/Haridwar to Joshimath

  • Drive distance: ~250–270 km (10–12 hours)
  • Route: Rishikesh – Devprayag – Rudraprayag – Karnaprayag – Joshimath
  • Stay: Guesthouse/Hotel

Day 2: Joshimath to Badrinath, Trek to Mana Village

  • Drive: 45 km (2 hours)
  • Short trek: 3–4 km
  • Explore Mana Village (last Indian village near Tibet border)
  • Stay: Camp/Guesthouse

Day 3: Mana to Vasudhara Falls to Laxmi Van

  • Trek distance: 8–10 km
  • Altitude gain: Moderate
  • Highlights: Vasudhara Falls, lush greenery, river views
  • Stay: Camp at Laxmi Van

Day 4: Laxmi Van to Chakrateertha

  • Trek distance: 6–8 km
  • Terrain becomes rugged and rocky
  • Spectacular views of Chaukhamba massif
  • Stay: Camp

Day 5: Chakrateertha to Kagbhusandi Lake (via Kankul Pass)

  • Trek distance: 6–7 km
  • Challenging ascent to Kankul Pass (5,230 m)
  • Reach Kagbhusandi Lake
  • Enjoy mesmerizing views of surrounding peaks
  • Stay: Camp near lake

Day 6: Exploration Day at Kagbhusandi Lake

  • Acclimatization and rest
  • Photography and exploration
  • Experience serene Himalayan environment

Day 7: Return Trek to Chakrateertha

  • Trek distance: 6–7 km
  • Descend via same route
  • Stay: Camp

Day 8: Chakrateertha to Mana

  • Trek distance: 10–12 km
  • Gradual descent
  • Stay: Guesthouse/Camp

Day 9: Mana to Joshimath

  • Drive back
  • Rest and recovery

Day 10: Joshimath to Rishikesh/Haridwar

  • Return journey
  • End of trek

Day 1: Rishikesh to Joshimath

  • Distance: ~250–270 km
  • Duration: 10–12 hours
  • Altitude: 372 m → 1,875 m

Your journey begins from Rishikesh, driving along the scenic Alaknanda River valley. En route, you will pass the sacred confluences of Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag.

Arrive at Joshimath by evening. Check into a hotel and rest.

  • Stay: Hotel/Guesthouse

Day 2: Joshimath to Badrinath | Trek to Mana Village

  • Drive Distance: 45 km (2 hours)
  • Trek Distance: 3–4 km
  • Altitude: 1,875 m → 3,200 m

Drive to Badrinath, one of the holiest Char Dham sites. After a short visit, proceed to Mana Village, the last Indian village near the Indo-Tibetan border.

Acclimatization begins here. Explore local attractions like Vyas Gufa and the Saraswati River origin.

  • Stay: Guesthouse/Camp

Day 3: Mana to Vasudhara Falls to Laxmi Van

  • Distance: 8–10 km
  • Duration: 5–6 hours
  • Altitude: 3,200 m → 3,800 m

The trek starts gradually from Mana towards the majestic Vasudhara Falls, a stunning waterfall cascading from a great height.

Continue trekking through rugged terrain and alpine vegetation to reach Laxmi Van, known for its greenery and mythological significance.

  • Stay: Camp

Day 4: Laxmi Van to Chakrateertha

  • Distance: 6–8 km
  • Duration: 5–6 hours
  • Altitude: 3,800 m → 4,200 m

The trail becomes steeper and more rugged as you ascend above the tree line. The landscape transitions into barren alpine terrain with breathtaking views of the Chaukhamba massif.

Arrive at Chakrateertha, a high-altitude meadow surrounded by towering peaks.

  • Stay: Camp

Day 5: Chakrateertha to Kagbhusandi Lake via Kankul Pass

  • Distance: 6–7 km
  • Duration: 6–7 hours
  • Altitude: 4,200 m → 5,230 m

This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Ascend steeply towards Kankul Pass (5,230 m), involving rocky and glacial sections.

From the pass, descend slightly to reach the mystical Kagbhusandi Lake, an emerald glacial lake surrounded by dramatic Himalayan peaks like Neelkanth, Thalaysagar, and Brigupanth.

  • Stay: Camp near lake

Day 6: Exploration & Acclimatization at Kagbhusandi Lake

  • Activity: Rest + Exploration

Spend the day exploring the lake area, acclimatizing, and soaking in panoramic Himalayan views. The silence and remoteness of this place make it spiritually uplifting.

  • Photography, short hikes, and relaxation
  • Watch sunrise and sunset over snow-clad peaks
  • Stay: Camp

Day 7: Kagbhusandi Lake to Chakrateertha

  • Distance: 6–7 km
  • Duration: 5–6 hours

Retrace your steps back via Kankul Pass descent to Chakrateertha. The descent requires caution due to loose rocks and steep sections.

  • Stay: Camp

Day 8: Chakrateertha to Mana Village

  • Distance: 10–12 km
  • Duration: 6–7 hours

A long descent through familiar trails passing Laxmi Van and Vasudhara Falls.

Reach Mana Village by evening and relax after continuous trekking days.

  • Stay: Guesthouse/Camp

Day 9: Mana to Joshimath

  • Drive: 45 km

Drive back to Joshimath. Spend the day resting and recovering.

  • Optional local exploration
  • Stay: Hotel

Day 10: Joshimath to Rishikesh

  • Distance: ~250 km
  • Duration: 10–12 hours

Drive back to Rishikesh, marking the end of an adventurous and spiritually enriching journey.

By Air

  • Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
  • Distance to Joshimath: ~270 km
  • From airport: Hire taxi or take bus to Rishikesh/Joshimath

By Rail

  • Nearest railway station: Haridwar / Rishikesh
  • Well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata

By Road

  • Rishikesh/Haridwar to Joshimath via NH-7
  • Regular buses and shared taxis available
  • Route passes through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag

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.