Pindari Trek in Monsoon

Hi

I looked everywhere but couldn't find much on going for the Pindari glacier trek during the monsoon months of july-august. I read advice to 'avoid' it, but no proper details on the conditions during this period, and how risky a thing it would be. Is it that strict a no-no to trek beginning of august? Also, what's the worst case scenario? Thanks in advance for any kind of help.

'Avoid' is maximum you can get as it is impossible to put clear parameters. There are so many factors like weather conditions, that for some it may be wonderful, and for others terrible.

Having said that, there is no reason why you should not be attempting it if you have a fair bit of adventurous attitude. If you can take usual monsoons problems in your stride, it may actually be a lifetime experience.

I did the trek in almost monsoon like conditions. Walking completely wet, having all your extra clothes and shoes wet and not be able to see peaks around you is something I wouldnt do again. The path is good enough to survive monsoon rain though.

iam planning trek on 01 oct. will the effects of monsoon be over at the pindari route. i would not want to walk with wet clothes

Liesure - did August end last year. I second what Araib has said, but to add, there are three river crossings and a few areas where landslides wash away the path - this year is exceptionally dry to date so it may not be bad but don't go without a guide. The good part is greenery and waterfalls in this season.

Himalayaneagle - October is perfect, except it is very crowded as well so book the KMVN huts in advance.

Thanks rajat. How do i do the booking for the huts and secondly in case i dont bet booking what are the alternatives?will i be able to manage with sleeping bag or will i need a tent.pl advise

You can visit kmvn site and email them or contact them on phone. You can also go through an arranger guide who will do the booking for you. Tent will be required, which you can hire in Delhi.

Thanks for the tips and testimonials guys. Don't think I'll be attempting it in the monsoon then, when I can easily do it a bit later!

can i feel snow if i go in october 01 from song ?

H.Eagle - Pindari route does not offer much snow closeby in October, but this year the level of snow was more so some may have stayed - but unlikely to be something you will remember. Mainly good peak views - Nandakot, Nandakhat, Maitkoli and Nanda Devi and ethereal panorama views of peaks from Dhakuri and lot of greenery and waterfalls.

i was there this July, and could not go ahead as monsoons had begun. Unless one wishes to go there again and again, and has a few days of leisure, there seems no reason for attempting this now. valley of flower looks a better option.

which would be the best time , if i want to feel some snow

Best time for snow is late April to mid May (earlier than early season) or Late November-Early December (later than late season). Pindari is at 3600m and in a region where snow stays for lesses time compared to deeper Himalayas (like beyond Gangorti / Badrinath etc.) or HP / Ladakh, which are colder as well. The seasons are as follows:

1. Good season (no or very little snow) - June, September / October.
2. Early / Late season - May / November
3. Off season - Late April / Early December (snow very likely).
4. Avoidable season - July / August (Monsoons) and possibility of landslides; Late Feb-Mid April (when Ice breaks and falls from mountain tops and can be risky) - though with a good guide it is possible.
5. Winter trek - January / mid Februaray (reaching Pindari itself is very difficult as it can have 6-7 feet of snow), but experienced trekkers with equipment and good guide / porter support can do it.

You can always go to HP (Manali side) or a bit higher route if you want to walk on snow in October.

Pl suggest me some trekking routes in HP / sikkim which are moderate .

Is there any requirement of acclamatisation while trekking to pindari and kafni.what is the best way to acclamatise and at which places.