6 Days | 5 Nights
Daily Tour
13 people
Dehradun
The offbeat trek of Phulara Ridge offers an extraordinary experience of the wilderness in the enchanting Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, Uttarakhand. One of the few ridge treks in the Himalayas, the trail passes through vast grasslands and forests with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks. As we set foot on the main ridge at around 12,000 feet, it feels like walking on a knife’s edge with awe-inspiring vistas on both sides. The panoramic views of towering mountains all around make it feel like a stairway to heaven. Our journey isn’t just about the ridge; it’s also about the diverse terrain we traverse. The trail meanders through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. The forests are adorned with carpets of vibrant flowers, and sunlight filters through the canopy in mesmerizing patterns. These woods are not only visually stunning but also home to a plethora of bird species. The melodious chirping of birds accompanies us, and if we’re fortunate, we might spot the elusive and colorful Himalayan monal, a rare and beautiful sight.
As we walk through the lush meadows, we are captivated by their stunning beauty. Before and after the ridge, we find ourselves amidst expansive, colorful grasslands. The sensation of walking on the soft grass feels like treading on a natural carpet. One of the most memorable spots is the Bhoj Gadi Bugyal, a haven for shepherds and their flocks. Here, we pitch our tents and witness glorious sunsets, with the sun dipping behind the Kedarkantha summit, casting a magical glow across the valley. This vantage point offers unparalleled views, making it an ideal location to soak in the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.
The Phulara Ridge trek is classified as a moderate-grade trek, making it suitable for fit beginners. Over four days, we trek for an average of five hours each on the first two days, with longer walks on the subsequent days. Each night, we undergo a routine medical checkup to ensure everyone’s well-being. Our certified and experienced trek leaders are with us every step of the way, with their friendly and knowledgeable guidance enhancing our overall experience.
Dehradun to Sankri via Mussoorie
A spectacular drive from Dehradun to Sankri kicks off the first day. You are expected to join the team at Dehradun railway station by 6:30 am. Sankri is around 200 km away from Dehradun, and it takes about 7-8 hours to reach it. The road passes through Mussoorie, the "Queen of the Hills," and goes along the rivers Yamuna and Tonnes, crossing Kempty waterfall, pine forests, deep gorges, and finally entering the Govind National Park.
The drive ends at Sankri, a picturesque and charming Himalayan village that serves as the starting point for numerous Himalayan treks. Beautiful views of Mount Swargrohini can be enjoyed from the village itself. You might anticipate snow right from Sankri itself if you are trekking during the winter. You will have enough time to tour the neighbourhood market once you have had a chance to freshen up at the house of Mountbuzz. If you need last-minute shopping for your upcoming adventure, the bazaar in Sankri has a variety of gear, clothing, and supplies for trekking.
By evening, we arrive at the quaint village of Sankri, our gateway to the Phulara Ridge trek. We check into our cozy guesthouses and are warmly welcomed with a traditional dinner featuring Pahadi cuisine. After a briefing about the trek, we settle in for the night, eager for the adventure ahead.
Sankri to Sikolta
We start our day with a wholesome breakfast, fueling us for the trek from Sankri to Sikolta. Setting off at 7:30 a.m., we begin our ascent from 6,400 feet to 9,400 feet, covering approximately 7 kilometers. The trail winds through dense forests of pine and maple, with the melodious songs of birds accompanying our steps.
As we climb higher, the forest opens up to reveal stunning views of snow-capped peaks. We pause mid-morning for a snack, taking in the serene beauty around us. Continuing our trek, we spot various flora, such as rhododendron flowers and medicinal plants, and fauna, like langurs and barking deer.
We will reach Sikolta by early afternoon, where we will camp amidst the picturesque surroundings. After a delicious hot lunch, we have time to relax or explore the area. As evening falls, we will gather around for storytelling and enjoy a hearty dinner under the starlit sky.
Sikolta to Bhoj Gadi base camp
After a filling breakfast, we pack up and begin our trek to Bhoj Gadi. Today’s trail covers 4.45 kilometers, taking us from 9,400 feet to 11,170 feet. The ascent is steady, allowing us to fully appreciate the stunning scenery. We walk through enchanting forests of silver oak and rhododendron, encountering the majestic Bhojpatra trees along the way. The forest floor is dotted with wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the verdant landscape. We take a picnic lunch amidst the trees, recharging before continuing our journey.
Arriving at Bhoj Gadi in the afternoon, we are greeted by awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks. We will explore the beauty of the place before its soup time. Dinner is also a delightful affair, with hot, freshly prepared dishes that warm us up as the temperature drops. The sounds of the forest lull us to sleep as we settle into our tents.
Bhoj Gadi to Pushtara via Phulara Ridge
Today is the highlight of our trek as we make our way to the Phulara Ridge. We start early, after a nourishing breakfast, ready for a long day of trekking. The trail from Bhoj Gadi, at 11,170 feet, to Pushtara, at 9,860 feet, takes us across the Phulara Ridge, which stands at 12,345 feet. The total distance would be covered in 7-8 hours.
The ascent to the ridge is challenging but immensely rewarding. As we reach the ridge, we are treated to a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding peaks, a sight that takes our breath away. The ridge walk is exhilarating, with views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and other majestic peaks keeping us company.
The flora here is alpine, with hardy shrubs and vibrant wildflowers dotting the landscape. The ridge is also a great place for bird watching, with species like the Himalayan griffon and golden eagle often soaring overhead.
We enjoy our packed lunch on the ridge, amidst the stunning scenery. The descent to Pushtara is gradual, passing through meadows filled with grazing sheep and horses. The tranquility of the meadows, combined with the distant sound of flowing streams, creates a peaceful ambiance. Arriving at Pushtara, we set up our camp in the expansive meadow. Engage in a delectable dinner, with everyone sharing their experiences of the day. As night falls, the clear skies offer a perfect view of the Milky Way, making for a magical end to an unforgettable day.
Pushtara to Taluka and Drive to Sankri
Our final day of trekking begins with a hearty breakfast, preparing us for the 8.1-kilometer trek from Pushtara to Taluka. We start our descent from 9,860 feet, making our way through water streams, lush forests, and vibrant meadows. The trail is mostly downhill, making for a pleasant walk. The forest is alive with the sounds of birds and the rustling of leaves. We might encounter a variety of wildlife, including the agile Himalayan goral and playful squirrels. The flora is diverse, with towering deodar and pine trees providing a canopy above us.
We take a break for lunch at a scenic waterfall, enjoying our packed meals amidst the bounty of nature. Continuing our trek, we reach the village of Taluka by afternoon. From here, a short drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours takes us back to Sankri. Back in Sankri, we check into our guesthouses and have some time to freshen up. We gather for a celebratory dinner, reliving the highlights of our trek and sharing our favorite moments. The warmth of the guesthouse and the delicious food make for a perfect ending to our trekking adventure
Sankri to Dehradun via Bikashnagar
As we bid farewell to our fellow trekkers, we carry with us the memories of an incredible adventure, the beauty of the mountains, and the camaraderie we shared along the way. The Phulara Ridge trek has left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we leave with a sense of accomplishment and a longing to return to these majestic mountains.
There are a number of buses going daily from Kashmiri Gate, Delhi to ISBT, Dehradun. Last bus is at 11 pm. It takes 4:30 hours to reach Dehradun. Our representative will receive you at Dehradun. If you are a group, please contact us for budget-friendly transfer deals.
Yes, definitely. Simply WhatsApp on +91 7811998989 to reserve a slot.
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