Ronti Saddle Trek

Your journey begins early morning from Dehradun as you drive through the scenic landscapes of Uttarakhand. The route takes you via Rishikesh, Devprayag, Karnaprayag, and Lohajung, offering spectacular views of rivers like Alaknanda and Pindar, along with dense forests and charming mountain villages. The long but rewarding drive gradually ascends into the higher Himalayan region. By evening, you will reach Wan Village, situated at an altitude of 8,200 ft, known as the base point for several treks. Upon arrival, check into a guesthouse or campsite, enjoy a hearty dinner, and rest for the night in the peaceful mountain setting.

After breakfast, begin your trek from Wan Village towards Geruli Patal. The trail first passes through the sacred Latu Devta Temple, where locals often seek blessings before entering the higher Himalayan region. From here, descend slightly to cross the crystal-clear Neel Ganga stream, then continue with a steady ascent through dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. As you climb higher, the forest opens up to offer glimpses of snow-clad Himalayan peaks. By afternoon, you will reach Geruli Patal, a beautiful camping ground surrounded by lush alpine greenery and peaceful wilderness. Settle into your campsite, enjoy hot meals, and spend the night under a starlit sky amidst nature’s serenity.

Today is one of the most scenic yet challenging days of the trek. After an early breakfast, start your journey from Geruli Patal with a gradual ascent towards the expansive alpine meadows of Bedni Bugyal, one of Asia’s largest high-altitude grasslands. The lush green meadows surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks create a breathtaking setting. You will also come across the sacred Bedni Kund, a high-altitude lake that holds great spiritual significance for pilgrims. After spending some time here, continue your climb towards Kalu Vinayak, a steep ascent that tests your stamina but rewards you with mesmerizing panoramic views of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. From Kalu Vinayak, the trail descends gradually towards Bhagwabasa, your campsite for the night. The rugged, rocky terrain here contrasts beautifully with the lush meadows you crossed earlier. Dinner and overnight stay at the Bhagwabasa campsite.

Today is the most adventurous and rewarding part of the trek. Start early from Bhagwabasa as you ascend towards the legendary Roopkund Lake (15,800 ft), also known as the “Mystery Lake” for the hundreds of ancient human skeletons scattered around its shores. After spending some time at this iconic high-altitude lake, continue further to cross the Junargali Pass (16,000+ ft), a challenging climb that rewards trekkers with majestic views of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and other towering Himalayan peaks. The descent from the pass is steep and leads you through glacial stretches and rocky terrain until you reach Shila Samudra, a stunning campsite located near the glacial basin of the Nanda Ghunti massif. Surrounded by raw wilderness and icy landscapes, Shila Samudra offers an unforgettable high-altitude camping experience. Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

Today’s trek from Shila Samudra to Dodang is comparatively moderate, giving you a chance to recover from the previous day’s long journey. The trail begins with a descent over rocky moraines and glacial streams, gradually opening into alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers (seasonal). As you walk, the dramatic Himalayan landscape unfolds, with snow-covered peaks towering in the background. The route also offers opportunities to spot Himalayan birds and occasional wildlife in the high-altitude pastures. By afternoon, you will reach Dodang, a picturesque camping site surrounded by ridges and valleys. Spend the evening resting, enjoying the serene atmosphere, and preparing for the next day’s trek. Dinner and overnight stay at Dodang campsite.

After an early breakfast, begin your adventurous trek from Dodang towards Homkund, a sacred high-altitude glacial lake revered by locals and pilgrims. The trail gradually ascends through rocky terrain and alpine pastures, offering mesmerizing views of Nanda Ghunti and Trishul peaks. From Homkund, continue the climb towards the Ronti Saddle (approx. 5,200 m), a high mountain pass connecting the Roopkund and Nanda Ghunti regions. The ascent is challenging but incredibly rewarding, as the saddle opens up panoramic views of some of the grandest Himalayan ranges. After spending some time at the summit to soak in the scenery, retrace your steps back to Dodang. By evening, return to the campsite, enjoy a hot meal, and rest overnight.

Today’s trek is a long but scenic descent from Dodang towards Chandaniya Ghat and then onward to Lata Khopri. The trail winds through rocky terrain, alpine pastures, and eventually into thick forests of oak and rhododendron. The descent offers splendid views of deep valleys, river gorges, and distant snow-covered peaks. You will cross several streams and walk along narrow ridges before reaching the serene meadows of Lata Khopri. This campsite, nestled amidst forests and open grasslands, is known for its peaceful setting and clear night skies. Arrive by evening, settle into your tents, and enjoy a restful overnight stay at Lata Khopri.

After breakfast, start your descent from Lata Khopri to Sutol Village. The trek spans approximately 13 km and takes 5–6 hours, passing through dense forests, terraced fields, and small streams. The gradual descent allows for a comfortable pace while soaking in the lush greenery, sounds of nature, and panoramic valley views. The trail also passes through remote villages, giving a glimpse of traditional Himalayan rural life.

Arrive at Sutol Village by afternoon, where you can check into a guesthouse or homestay. Spend the evening relaxing, interacting with local villagers, and enjoying the serene mountain atmosphere. Dinner and overnight stay at Sutol Village.

After an early breakfast, bid farewell to Sutol Village and begin the return journey to Dehradun. The drive spans approximately 282 km and takes around 9–10 hours. The route passes through picturesque Himalayan valleys, river gorges, and scenic villages including Ghat and Karnaprayag, finally reaching Rishikesh before descending to Dehradun.

This journey allows you to reflect on the entire trek, reminiscing the high-altitude lakes, alpine meadows, and Himalayan peaks experienced over the past days. Arrive in Dehradun by evening, marking the conclusion of your adventurous trek. Trip ends with unforgettable memories and photographs of the magnificent Himalayas.