Khatling Glacier Trek

Uttarakhand

DifficultDifficulty

10–12 DaysDuration

3900 mMax Altitude

100 kmLength

Ghuttu VillageStarting Point

Khatling Glacier Trek: Journey to the Icy Heart of Garhwal Himalayas

The Khatling Glacier Trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most breathtaking adventures, leading trekkers into the wild and untouched landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas. Nestled at 12,800 ft, the Khatling Glacier is the source of the Bhilangna River and offers dramatic views of snow-capped peaks like Jogin, Kirti Stambh, and Meru. This trek is a mix of high-altitude challenges, dense forests, alpine meadows, and glacier moraine trails, making it ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking both adventure and natural beauty. Along the way, you pass through quaint villages, suspension bridges, and ancient temples that reflect the cultural richness of Uttarakhand.

Why Khatling Glacier Trek is Special

The trek is not just about reaching the glacier but about experiencing a journey that unfolds with changing landscapes. From pine and deodar forests to meadows filled with wildflowers and then into icy glacier terrain, it feels like walking through different worlds in one trek. The glacier itself, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, leaves trekkers spellbound with its scale and grandeur.

Adventure and Spirituality Combined

This trek is also a spiritual experience. The trail passes through Ghuttu and Gangi, villages rich in Garhwali culture, and includes ancient shrines dedicated to local deities. Many pilgrims consider the glacier region sacred, adding a sense of reverence to the adventure.

Best Time to Do the Trek

May–June and September–October are the best times for this trek when the weather is clear and trails are safe. The monsoon months bring lush beauty but also landslides, making it risky, while winters bury the trail in deep snow.

Packing List

Trekking shoes with ankle support

Buy on Amazon

2–3 liters of water

Buy on Amazon

Warm layered clothing

Buy on Amazon

Raincoat/Poncho

Buy on Amazon

Sleeping bag

Buy on Amazon

Trekking pole

Buy on Amazon

First aid kit & personal medicines

Buy on Amazon

Snacks/Energy bars

Buy on Amazon

Torch/Headlamp

Buy on Amazon

ID proof

Buy on Amazon

Itinerary

Day 1: Rishikesh to Ghuttu | Distance: 190 km (drive) | Duration: 7–8 hours | Altitude: 5,200 ft

Drive through Tehri Garhwal’s winding roads.
Stay overnight in Ghuttu village, the trek base.

Day 2: Ghuttu to Reeh | Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5–6 hours | Altitude: 8,200 ft

Steady climb through mixed forest and Garhwali villages.
Camp overnight at Reeh meadow.

Day 3: Reeh to Gangi | Distance: 12 km | Duration: 6–7 hours | Altitude: 8,900 ft

Trek through oak and deodar forests.
Reach Gangi village, known for traditional Garhwali culture.

Day 4: Gangi to Kharsoli | Distance: 11 km | Duration: 6–7 hours | Altitude: 9,500 ft

Pass by shepherd huts and alpine meadows.
Set camp at Kharsoli near a stream.

Day 5: Kharsoli to Tambakund | Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5–6 hours | Altitude: 11,500 ft

Gradual ascent with river crossings.
Camp near Tambakund, close to glacier zone.

Day 6: Tambakund to Khatling Glacier & Return | Distance: 12 km | Duration: 7–8 hours | Altitude: 12,800 ft

Trek to the snout of the Khatling Glacier.
Enjoy grand views of peaks like Jogin, Kirti Stambh, and Meru.
Return to Tambakund for overnight stay.

Day 7–10: Return journey retracing steps (Tambakund → Kharsoli → Gangi → Ghuttu → Rishikesh)

Gradual descent with camping at same sites.
End trek at Rishikesh.

Leaflet

Main trek location

Starting point

Best Month to Visit

JanJan FebFeb MarMar AprApr MayMay JunJun JulJul AugAug SepSep OctOct NovNov DecDec

Nearest airportJolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Nearest railwayRishikesh Railway Station

Weather Forecast

Tuesday 2 Dec

Start point2° / 11°

Cloudy

11°

06:55

17:13

35%

Summit-13° / -4°

Snow

-4°

06:55

17:11

42%

Hourly temperature (start vs summit)°C

Reviews

0 reviews

Share your experience to help other trekkers plan this route.

No reviews yet for this trek.

Be the first to share what it is really like out there.

Top stays nearby

4.3 (3433)

FAQs

How difficult is the Khatling Glacier Trek?

The trek is moderate to difficult with long walking hours, steep climbs, and glacier terrain. Good fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.

What is the altitude of Khatling Glacier?

The glacier is located at about 3,900 m (12,800 ft).

How many days does the trek take?

The trek takes around 10–12 days, including travel to and from Rishikesh.

When is the best time for this trek?

May–June and September–October are the best months for safe and clear trekking conditions.

Do I need prior experience?

Yes, this trek is better suited for experienced trekkers due to glacier and moraine terrain.

Is camping required?

Yes, trekkers camp every night at designated spots like Reeh, Gangi, Kharsoli, Tambakund, etc.

What peaks are visible from the glacier?

You can view Jogin peaks, Kirti Stambh, Meru, and other Garhwal Himalayan summits.

How do I reach the starting point?

Ghuttu village is the trek base, accessible by road from Rishikesh via Tehri Garhwal.

Is it safe to trek in monsoon?

Not recommended, as heavy rains cause landslides, river flooding, and risky trails.

Do I need permits?

Generally, no special permits are required, but registering with local forest authorities is advised for safety.

Plan your next trek

Browse all treks in one place

Explore every trek on FindMeTrek with powerful filters for region, difficulty, duration, and season so you can quickly find the trail that matches your next adventure.

Explore treks→