Home » Darma Valley – Panchachuli Base Camp: A Trans-Himalayan Summer Trail

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Darma Valley – Panchachuli Base Camp: A Trans-Himalayan Summer Trail

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Darma Valley – Panchachuli Base Camp: A Trans-Himalayan Summer Trail

Himalayas

Why Choose Darma Valley?

  • Untouched Beauty: Explore one of the few Himalayan regions unaffected by monsoon rains, offering perfect summer trails and unmatched natural beauty.
  • Rich Culture: Immerse yourself in the Darma Valley Festival and experience the Bhotia community’s migratory way of life.
  • Close to Nature: Witness the dazzling Panchachuli peaks up close and bask in the valley’s serene landscapes.

What is a Flexi-Trail?

The Flexi-Trail combines the thrill of Himalayan trekking with the comfort of modern amenities. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner:

  • Stay in cozy stone village houses with warm beds, functioning toilets, and fresh, nutritious meals.
  • Enjoy full jeep support throughout the trail, offering flexibility for all age groups.
  • Tailor your experience: choose between challenging hikes, leisurely walks, or relaxing in sunlit village courtyards.

Who Can Join?

This journey is perfect for:

  • Beginners, families, children, and seniors looking for a moderate challenge.
  • Those eager to explore Himalayan culture, enjoy local cuisine, and live the shepherd’s life in comfort.
  • Adventure seekers and nature lovers of all ages!
DSC06357

What Makes This Trail Special?

Beyond Trekking: A Himalayan Experience Unlike Any Other

This is not a typical high-altitude trek. The Darma Valley Summer Trail blends adventure with culture, offering an immersive Himalayan experience that combines nature, comfort, and the wisdom of the mountain communities.

Stay: Cozy Village Homes, Not Campsites

Unlike conventional treks that rely on tents and campsites, we offer stays in traditional stone-built village homes. This means:

  • Warm, comfortable beds instead of sleeping bags.
  • Functioning toilets & running water instead of makeshift facilities.
  • Freshly cooked meals in home kitchens, giving you a taste of authentic high-altitude cuisine.

Camping is still an option for those who prefer it, but the availability of a warm home base makes this journey accessible to families, beginners, and those looking for an experience beyond just trekking.

Small, Personalized Groups

We keep our group size intimate—maximum of 10 guests—ensuring meaningful interactions and a deeply personal experience. With at least one trekking facilitator for every two travelers, you get enhanced safety, flexibility, and attention.

Food: Authentic Himalayan Meals, Freshly Cooked

Every meal is hot and freshly prepared, whether by our skilled kitchen team or by local families in the villages we visit. The menu is thoughtfully curated to provide balanced nutrition at high altitudes, ensuring energy and warmth throughout the journey.

24×7 Vehicle Support & Flexible Trail Options

Thanks to the region’s new road network, we offer constant vehicle support.

  • Those who wish to challenge themselves can embark on full-day hikes.
  • Others may opt for leisurely explorations while staying connected with the group.
  • Elderly participants or families with children can enjoy the mountains at their own pace.

This ensures that you dictate the level of physical challenge while still soaking in the grandeur of the Himalayas.

Itinerary

Day 1: May 13thAssemble at Mukteshwar

Delhi to Kathgodam Station / Pantnagar Airport
From Delhi, you can choose to travel by train to Kathgodam (rail terminus) or by flight to Pantnagar Airport.

Drive to Mukteshwar (2.5–3.5 hours)
Upon arrival, a scenic drive will take you from Kathgodam or Pantnagar to Mukteshwar. Vehicular support can be arranged on request at actual costs, or you are welcome to make your own travel arrangements.

Stay at Mukteshwar
Settle into our charming campsite nestled in an apple and peach orchard. Enjoy the tranquility and refreshing mountain air as you prepare for the journey ahead.

(If you choose to arrange your own accommodation at Mukteshwar, please inform our coordinators in advance to facilitate planning.)

 

Day 2 (May 14th): Drive from Mukteshwar to Dharchula (7 hours)

We will start a scenic journey from Mukteshwar to Dharchula, a vibrant town nestled along the Kali River. The drive transitions from the lush foothills of the lesser Himalayas to the grandeur of the greater Himalayan ranges, offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes along the way.

Overnight Stay in Dharchula

Rest and recharge at a pre-arranged hotel or a KMVN guest house, where you can soak in the serene atmosphere and prepare for the adventure ahead.

 

Day 3 (May 15th): Journey to Nagling Village

Embark on a scenic drive (60 km) from Dharchula to Nagling village, traveling alongside the Kali River, which forms the natural boundary between India and Nepal. The route later follows the Dhauli Ganga, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape.

Nagling, a charming medieval stone-built village, gets its name from the dramatic rock cliffs with striking veins of partially molten rock formations.

Upon arrival, settle into a cozy village home for the night. Spend the evening exploring the serene valley on foot, allowing your body to acclimatize to the higher altitude.

 

Day 4 (May 16th): Exploring Baling and the Hidden Villages

After a short 40-minute drive to the picturesque village of Baling, the adventure continues with a 2-3 hour hike to the charming villages of Phillum, Go, and Bonh.

Cross the river and ascend to this secluded cluster of villages, which are rarely visited and exude a timeless charm reminiscent of a bygone era. If the weather is kind, you’ll be rewarded with your first breathtaking views of the majestic Panchachuli peaks.

Geological Trivia: The unique rocks used in the construction of homes in these villages are remnants from the ancient Tethyan sea bed, adding an intriguing layer of history to the surroundings.

Spend the day soaking in the serene beauty and cultural richness of these hidden gems.

 

Day 5 (May 17th): Discovering Dantu Village

Spend the day exploring the stunning landscapes surrounding Phillum, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and cultural essence of the region. Later, embark on a moderate 2-hour hike to reach Dantu Village, perched at an altitude of 3,500 meters.

Dantu, the last inhabited village in the Darma Valley, is a picturesque settlement nestled on the hillside, offering breathtaking ringside views of the majestic Panchachuli peaks. The village’s stone-built houses add a touch of timeless charm, and you’ll stay overnight in one such beautiful home, thoughtfully converted into a cozy guest house.

Unwind amidst the serene ambiance and let the tranquility of this high-altitude village captivate your spirit.

 

Day 6 (May 18th): Hike to the Snout of the Panchachuli Glacier

Begin your day with a hike from Dantu village to the snout of the majestic Panchachuli Glacier, ascending to an altitude of 3,900 meters. This trek offers a leisurely pace, allowing you to take your time and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings.

After an adventurous day, return to the cozy guest house in Dantu for another restful night.

Optional: For those who prefer a more relaxed day, you are welcome to bask in the sunlit terraces of Dantu, explore the charming stone-built homes, or simply soak in the serenity of the village.

 

Day 7 (May 19th): Drive from Dantu to Duktu

Morning: A short 15-minute drive brings us from Dantu to Duktu village. From here, we embark on a hike to the Panchachuli Base Camp (4,100m), exploring the stunning glacier up close.

Midday: Enjoy a memorable lunch amidst the meadows near the glacier, surrounded by panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape.

Afternoon: Return to Duktu village and drive via Baling to reach Nagling village.

Highlights:
The hike takes us through a remarkable lateral moraine, a natural ridge of glacial sediment, offering unparalleled views of the valley from its summit.

Evening: Settle in for an overnight stay at the charming village guest house in Nagling.

 

Day 8 (May 20th): Exploring Naagling Glacier and Riverside Retreat

Begin the day with an early morning hike to the Naagling Glacier (2,450m), where you’ll explore a pristine U-shaped valley carved by the glacier and marvel at the majestic mountain domes. Relish a tranquil lunch amidst the picturesque meadows.

In the afternoon, descend to Dharchula (60 km, 2-hour drive) for a hearty lunch in town. Continue the journey with another 2-hour drive to Nachni village. Relax and rejuvenate at a private beach along the Ramganga River, indulging in activities like swimming or kayaking.

Spend the night in alpine tents or riverside huts, surrounded by the serene beauty of the riverside.

 

Day 9 (May 21st): Return Journey

Morning: Depart early from Nachni and drive to your onward destination (7–9 hours, depending on location):

Kathgodam / Mukteshwar / Saat-Tal

Program Ends:

Option 1: Board an overnight train or Volvo to Delhi.

Option 2: Opt for a complimentary overnight stay at Saat-Tal and proceed to Delhi on Day 10 (May 22nd).

This marks the conclusion of an unforgettable Roobaroo journey through the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

DSC06220

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions
  • Facilitation of the programme as per itinerary.
  • Subject matter experts.
  • Accommodation in alpine tents / guest houses / hotels / campsites.
  • All meals during the program
  • Instructors, safety equipment.
  • Sleeping bags, rucksacks, mattresses on request.
  • Road Transport from Mukteshwar  – DharchulaSaat-tal. (Day 1)
  • Internal 24*7 back up jeeps
Exclusions
  • Personal expenses.

  • Insurance of any kind.

  • Train- Bus – Flight tickets from Delhi – Kgm – Delhi.

Pricing

The cost per guest for the Darma Valley Summer Trail is INR 58,500 per adult (plus 5% GST).

Please note that this does not include the cost of transportation, which is charged on actuals. The approximate cost for each vehicle is Rs. 48,000 for the entire trail, which is split equally among all guests sharing the vehicle – between 1 to 5. The precise costing for this will be communicated closer to the program date basis sign-ups and groups formation.

Additionally, the pricing does not include any personal expenses by guests, insurance of any kind, or the cost of travel from Delhi to Kathgodam or Pant Nagar.

To join this Roobaroo Journey follow these steps:

  • Click the “Book This Journey” button.
  • You’ll be redirected to WhatsApp.
  • Share the number of participants.
  • Provide your best contact details (phone number & email).
  • Our team will reach out to you.

Darma Valley – Panchachuli Base Camp: A Trans-Himalayan Summer Trail

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the pristine Darma Valley, nestled behind the majestic Panchachuli range in Kumaon, Uttarakhand.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of a trans-Himalayan valley teeming with vibrant culture, crystal-clear blue skies, and the ancient traditions of the Bhotia shepherd tribes.

Why Choose Darma Valley?

  • Untouched Beauty: Explore one of the few Himalayan regions unaffected by monsoon rains, offering perfect summer trails and unmatched natural beauty.
  • Rich Culture: Immerse yourself in the Darma Valley Festival and experience the Bhotia community’s migratory way of life.
  • Close to Nature: Witness the dazzling Panchachuli peaks up close and bask in the valley’s serene landscapes.

What is a Flexi-Trail?

The Flexi-Trail combines the thrill of Himalayan trekking with the comfort of modern amenities. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner:

  • Stay in cozy stone village houses with warm beds, functioning toilets, and fresh, nutritious meals.
  • Enjoy full jeep support throughout the trail, offering flexibility for all age groups.
  • Tailor your experience: choose between challenging hikes, leisurely walks, or relaxing in sunlit village courtyards.

Who Can Join?

This journey is perfect for:

  • Beginners, families, children, and seniors looking for a moderate challenge.
  • Those eager to explore Himalayan culture, enjoy local cuisine, and live the shepherd’s life in comfort.
  • Adventure seekers and nature lovers of all ages!
DSC06357

What Makes This Trail Special?

Beyond Trekking: A Himalayan Experience Unlike Any Other

This is not a typical high-altitude trek. The Darma Valley Summer Trail blends adventure with culture, offering an immersive Himalayan experience that combines nature, comfort, and the wisdom of the mountain communities.

Stay: Cozy Village Homes, Not Campsites

Unlike conventional treks that rely on tents and campsites, we offer stays in traditional stone-built village homes. This means:

  • Warm, comfortable beds instead of sleeping bags.
  • Functioning toilets & running water instead of makeshift facilities.
  • Freshly cooked meals in home kitchens, giving you a taste of authentic high-altitude cuisine.

Camping is still an option for those who prefer it, but the availability of a warm home base makes this journey accessible to families, beginners, and those looking for an experience beyond just trekking.

Small, Personalized Groups

We keep our group size intimate—maximum of 10 guests—ensuring meaningful interactions and a deeply personal experience. With at least one trekking facilitator for every two travelers, you get enhanced safety, flexibility, and attention.

Food: Authentic Himalayan Meals, Freshly Cooked

Every meal is hot and freshly prepared, whether by our skilled kitchen team or by local families in the villages we visit. The menu is thoughtfully curated to provide balanced nutrition at high altitudes, ensuring energy and warmth throughout the journey.

24×7 Vehicle Support & Flexible Trail Options

Thanks to the region’s new road network, we offer constant vehicle support.

  • Those who wish to challenge themselves can embark on full-day hikes.
  • Others may opt for leisurely explorations while staying connected with the group.
  • Elderly participants or families with children can enjoy the mountains at their own pace.

This ensures that you dictate the level of physical challenge while still soaking in the grandeur of the Himalayas.

5

Itinerary

Day 1: May 13thAssemble at Mukteshwar

Delhi to Kathgodam Station / Pantnagar Airport
From Delhi, you can choose to travel by train to Kathgodam (rail terminus) or by flight to Pantnagar Airport.

Drive to Mukteshwar (2.5–3.5 hours)
Upon arrival, a scenic drive will take you from Kathgodam or Pantnagar to Mukteshwar. Vehicular support can be arranged on request at actual costs, or you are welcome to make your own travel arrangements.

Stay at Mukteshwar
Settle into our charming campsite nestled in an apple and peach orchard. Enjoy the tranquility and refreshing mountain air as you prepare for the journey ahead.

(If you choose to arrange your own accommodation at Mukteshwar, please inform our coordinators in advance to facilitate planning.)

 

Day 2 (May 14th): Drive from Mukteshwar to Dharchula (7 hours)

We will start a scenic journey from Mukteshwar to Dharchula, a vibrant town nestled along the Kali River. The drive transitions from the lush foothills of the lesser Himalayas to the grandeur of the greater Himalayan ranges, offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes along the way.

Overnight Stay in Dharchula

Rest and recharge at a pre-arranged hotel or a KMVN guest house, where you can soak in the serene atmosphere and prepare for the adventure ahead.

 

Day 3 (May 15th): Journey to Nagling Village

Embark on a scenic drive (60 km) from Dharchula to Nagling village, traveling alongside the Kali River, which forms the natural boundary between India and Nepal. The route later follows the Dhauli Ganga, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape.

Nagling, a charming medieval stone-built village, gets its name from the dramatic rock cliffs with striking veins of partially molten rock formations.

Upon arrival, settle into a cozy village home for the night. Spend the evening exploring the serene valley on foot, allowing your body to acclimatize to the higher altitude.

 

Day 4 (May 16th): Exploring Baling and the Hidden Villages

After a short 40-minute drive to the picturesque village of Baling, the adventure continues with a 2-3 hour hike to the charming villages of Phillum, Go, and Bonh.

Cross the river and ascend to this secluded cluster of villages, which are rarely visited and exude a timeless charm reminiscent of a bygone era. If the weather is kind, you’ll be rewarded with your first breathtaking views of the majestic Panchachuli peaks.

Geological Trivia: The unique rocks used in the construction of homes in these villages are remnants from the ancient Tethyan sea bed, adding an intriguing layer of history to the surroundings.

Spend the day soaking in the serene beauty and cultural richness of these hidden gems.

 

Day 5 (May 17th): Discovering Dantu Village

Spend the day exploring the stunning landscapes surrounding Phillum, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and cultural essence of the region. Later, embark on a moderate 2-hour hike to reach Dantu Village, perched at an altitude of 3,500 meters.

Dantu, the last inhabited village in the Darma Valley, is a picturesque settlement nestled on the hillside, offering breathtaking ringside views of the majestic Panchachuli peaks. The village’s stone-built houses add a touch of timeless charm, and you’ll stay overnight in one such beautiful home, thoughtfully converted into a cozy guest house.

Unwind amidst the serene ambiance and let the tranquility of this high-altitude village captivate your spirit.

 

Day 6 (May 18th): Hike to the Snout of the Panchachuli Glacier

Begin your day with a hike from Dantu village to the snout of the majestic Panchachuli Glacier, ascending to an altitude of 3,900 meters. This trek offers a leisurely pace, allowing you to take your time and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings.

After an adventurous day, return to the cozy guest house in Dantu for another restful night.

Optional: For those who prefer a more relaxed day, you are welcome to bask in the sunlit terraces of Dantu, explore the charming stone-built homes, or simply soak in the serenity of the village.

 

Day 7 (May 19th): Drive from Dantu to Duktu

Morning: A short 15-minute drive brings us from Dantu to Duktu village. From here, we embark on a hike to the Panchachuli Base Camp (4,100m), exploring the stunning glacier up close.

Midday: Enjoy a memorable lunch amidst the meadows near the glacier, surrounded by panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape.

Afternoon: Return to Duktu village and drive via Baling to reach Nagling village.

Highlights:
The hike takes us through a remarkable lateral moraine, a natural ridge of glacial sediment, offering unparalleled views of the valley from its summit.

Evening: Settle in for an overnight stay at the charming village guest house in Nagling.

 

Day 8 (May 20th): Exploring Naagling Glacier and Riverside Retreat

Begin the day with an early morning hike to the Naagling Glacier (2,450m), where you’ll explore a pristine U-shaped valley carved by the glacier and marvel at the majestic mountain domes. Relish a tranquil lunch amidst the picturesque meadows.

In the afternoon, descend to Dharchula (60 km, 2-hour drive) for a hearty lunch in town. Continue the journey with another 2-hour drive to Nachni village. Relax and rejuvenate at a private beach along the Ramganga River, indulging in activities like swimming or kayaking.

Spend the night in alpine tents or riverside huts, surrounded by the serene beauty of the riverside.

 

Day 9 (May 21st): Return Journey

Morning: Depart early from Nachni and drive to your onward destination (7–9 hours, depending on location):

Kathgodam / Mukteshwar / Saat-Tal

Program Ends:

Option 1: Board an overnight train or Volvo to Delhi.

Option 2: Opt for a complimentary overnight stay at Saat-Tal and proceed to Delhi on Day 10 (May 22nd).

This marks the conclusion of an unforgettable Roobaroo journey through the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

DSC06220

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions
  • Facilitation of the programme as per itinerary.
  • Subject matter experts.
  • Accommodation in alpine tents / guest houses / hotels / campsites.
  • All meals during the program
  • Instructors, safety equipment.
  • Sleeping bags, rucksacks, mattresses on request.
  • Road Transport from Mukteshwar  – Dharchula – Saat-tal. (Day 1)
  • Internal 24*7 back up jeeps
Exclusions
  • Personal expenses.

  • Insurance of any kind.

  • Train- Bus – Flight tickets from Delhi – Kgm – Delhi.

Pricing 

The cost per guest for the Darma Valley Summer Trail is INR 58,500 per adult (plus 5% GST).

Please note that this does not include the cost of transportation, which is charged on actuals. The approximate cost for each vehicle is Rs. 48,000 for the entire trail, which is split equally among all guests sharing the vehicle – between 1 to 5. The precise costing for this will be communicated closer to the program date basis sign-ups and groups formation.

Additionally, the pricing does not include any personal expenses by guests, insurance of any kind, or the cost of travel from Delhi to Kathgodam or Pant Nagar.

To join this Roobaroo Journey follow these steps:

  • Click the “Book This Journey” button.
  • You’ll be redirected to WhatsApp.
  • Share the number of participants.
  • Provide your best contact details (phone number & email).
  • Our team will reach out to you.

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Reviews

Madgenius
Excellent value and well-designed walking and boat tours by extremely knowledgeable and friendly local guides. Simply a must for a city like Varanasi, which has so many hidden delights. I’m so grateful to’ve done two tours. Moreover, Roobaroo is Indian owned and operated. I’ve already recommended these peeps to my mates and I’ll continue to do so!
Mrigank

We contacted Roobaroo walks for a unique business requirement, as we were going to produce a video in Varanasi and required expert know-how for the on-ground scene. What started as a business arrangement turned into an experience of a lifetime, as the team from Roobaroo walks created the perfect walk for us to help with our requirements. Their knowledge about Varanasi, their innate ability to pre-judge our volatile requirements and arrange for the same, and overall, the personal attention given to each and everyone during the tour was something which we did not anticipate.

We were able to capture some iconic events, which are usually little known to the outside world but par for the course for our guides. I hope I get to meet the team again when I plan my visit to Varanasi with my families, an enthralling place which is ripe with so much history that it demands multiple visits.

Stempyren from New Zealand

During our stay in Varanasi we attended three tours with Roobaroo Walks. These were 1. The Essential Varanasi Walk (northern part of the city) 2. the City of Good Life Walk (southern part of the city) and 3. the Food Walk (street food tour).

We thoroughly enjoyed each tour and would recommend Roobaroo Walks to anyone travelling to Varanasi. The city is incredible, however, it was intentionally designed to feature a complex network of small alleys, which can be really tricky to navigate if you are a traveller. Accordingly, a guided tour is a great way to really make the most of your time in Varanasi and will also give you an enhanced insight into local life.

Anchal and Aayush are fantastic tour guides. They are both extremely kind, well-spoken and fun. They answered all of our questions about life in Varanasi, and India in general, comprehensively and all of our tours went over time because they were so generous with their time! If you are considering booking a tour with this company you definitely should!!!

John from USA
My wife and I were in Varanasi for the first time. On our first outing alone, we were pretty overwhelmed. However, having Aayush with us brought the city to life and showed us a completely different side. We ended up doing the Essential Varnassi and City of Good Life tours – we learned so much on the old city tour that we had to continue with another one the next day! Would strongly recommend to anyone who wants to better understand Varanasi.
Madgenius from Jaipur
Excellent value and well-designed walking and boat tours by extremely knowledgeable and friendly local guides. Simply a must for a city like Varanasi, which has so many hidden delights. I’m so grateful to’ve done two tours. Moreover, Roobaroo is Indian owned and operated. I’ve already recommended these peeps to my mates and I’ll continue to do so!
John from USA
My wife and I were in Varanasi for the first time. On our first outing alone, we were pretty overwhelmed. However, having Aayush with us brought the city to life and showed us a completely different side. We ended up doing the Essential Varnassi and City of Good Life tours – we learned so much on the old city tour that we had to continue with another one the next day! Would strongly recommend to anyone who wants to better understand Varanasi.
Mrigank from Sydney

We contacted Roobaroo walks for a unique business requirement, as we were going to produce a video in Varanasi and required expert know-how for the on-ground scene. What started as a business arrangement turned into an experience of a lifetime, as the team from Roobaroo walks created the perfect walk for us to help with our requirements. Their knowledge about Varanasi, their innate ability to pre-judge our volatile requirements and arrange for the same, and overall, the personal attention given to each and everyone during the tour was something which we did not anticipate.

We were able to capture some iconic events, which are usually little known to the outside world but par for the course for our guides. I hope I get to meet the team again when I plan my visit to Varanasi with my families, an enthralling place which is ripe with so much history that it demands multiple visits.

Stempyren from New Zealand

During our stay in Varanasi we attended three tours with Roobaroo Walks. These were 1. The Essential Varanasi Walk (northern part of the city) 2. the City of Good Life Walk (southern part of the city) and 3. the Food Walk (street food tour).

We thoroughly enjoyed each tour and would recommend Roobaroo Walks to anyone travelling to Varanasi. The city is incredible, however, it was intentionally designed to feature a complex network of small alleys, which can be really tricky to navigate if you are a traveller. Accordingly, a guided tour is a great way to really make the most of your time in Varanasi and will also give you an enhanced insight into local life.

Anchal and Aayush are fantastic tour guides. They are both extremely kind, well-spoken and fun. They answered all of our questions about life in Varanasi, and India in general, comprehensively and all of our tours went over time because they were so generous with their time! If you are considering booking a tour with this company you definitely should!!!

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