Satopanth Lake
6 Nights 7 Days Tour
Highlights
- Sacred Pilgrimage to “Swarg ki Seedi” (Stairway to Heaven)
- Trek beyond the source of Alaknanda River
- Amazing views of Vasudhara Falls and Sahastradhara Falls
- Walk under the shades of Balakun, Nilkantha, Parvati and Chaukhamba Peaks
- 3-4 campsites enroute to alter the itinerary if needed
The Edge of Heaven
It is believed that Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu & Lord Mahesh used to come together to take a holy dip in this glacial lake on every Ekadashi, the echo of sacred chants are still felt in this region which keeps the positive vibrations intact at this Himalayan oasis called, Satopanth Lake.
The last ordeal of Pandavas quietly followed this dramatic path to the stairway of heaven on the edge of Chaukhamba Peak and onwards to Swargarohini Icefall. Yes, this is the mythical where Pandavas spent their last days in peace.
Surrounded by giant peaks of Nilkantha, Balakun, Parvati and the towering Chaukhamba, this trail offers iconic landscapes after you cross the Alka Puri Glacier, source of Alaknanda River.
Short Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival at Joshimath
Day 2 : Joshimath – Badrinath – Jhamtoli
Day 3 : Jhamtoli – Sahastradhara – Chakratirtha
Day 4 : Chakratirtha – Satopanth Lake – Chakratirtha
Day 5 : Chakratirtha – Laxmivan – Jhamtoli
Day 6 : Jhamtoli – Badrinath – Joshimath
Day 7 : Departure from Joshimath
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival at Joshimath
Drive to Joshimath. Check into Himalayan Abode Homestay at Marwari Village. The guide will meet you at our Homestay and assist you further on the tour. You can by last minute supplies after arriving Joshimath, our homestay is located 5kms from Joshimath.
Day 2 : Joshimath – Badrinath – Jhamtoli
Drive to Mana Village via Badrinath. Cross the bridge over Alaknanda River and start hiking on the cemented path through the agricultural fields to reach a temple. You can fill your water bottles here. 1km hike from here and you will enter the valley, start hiking on the ascending trail while sticking on the left side of gushing Alaknanda River. Soon you will see Vasudhara Falls penetrating the rocky cliffs. That will give you can idea of the distance you are supposed to travel as Jhamtoli is located on the opposite side of Vasudhara Falls.
Trek to Jhamtoli on 1st day.
Jhamtoli Campsite. Vasudhara Falls in the background.
Day 3 : Jhamtoli – Sahastradhara – Chakratirtha
Trek via Laxmi Van to the source of Alaknanda River, at Alka Puri Glacier and climb the moraines and ridges on the left, the trail is visible at most parts. 5kms into the trek and descent climb you’ll reach Sahastradhara Falls, where many waterfalls can be seen forming small puddles and pretty campsites. Continue on the trail and get close to Balakun Peak, a giant valley of glacier and moraines can be seen on the right, keep ascending on the left ridges over moraines to reach Chakratirtha. Nilkantha, Chaukhamba and Parvati Peak, all are visible from this campsite.
Trekking towards Chakratirtha. First view of Parvati Peak.
Alka Puri Glacier and Balakun Peak
Chakratirtha Campsite
Day 4 : Chakratirtha – Satopanth Lake – Chakratirtha
Start the days hike by climbing the ridge of Chakratirtha to enter the mix of moraines and glacier section. Satopanth lake is 4kms from Chakratirtha. Descend down to Satopanth Lake, take a holy dip in this lake as it has medicinal values. Also do a parikrama at this lake and visit the sadhus shelter, where they meditate and stay for 6 months.
Nilkantha Peak on left and the moraine section we need to traverse while hiking to Chakratirtha.
Reflection of Chaukhamba Peak on Satopanth Lake.
Swargarohini Icefall as seen from Satopanth Lake.
Day 5 : Chakratirtha – Laxmivan – Jhamtoli
Trek back to Jhamtoli
Heading back to Jhamtoli Campsite
Day 6 : Jhamtoli – Badrinath – Joshimath
Trek down to Mana Village and thereon to Badrinath Temple. Drive to Joshimath after darshan. You can head back to Dehradun / Rishikesh on this day as well
Day 7 : Departure from Joshimath
Inclusions
- Accommodation in Himalayan Abode, Joshimath (2Nights)
- Premium Dome tents during trek on twin sharing
- All Veg Meals during Trek (Trail Snacks, Packed Lunch / Hot Lunch, Daily Breakfast & Dinner)
- All Trekking equipment (Tents, Sleeping Bags, Mattress, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, etc)
- Porter, Cook & Guide Charges
- Forest Camping Charges, Entry Fees & Permits
- Services of Experienced Trek Leader
Exclusions
- Bag Offloading
- Transportation
- Any personal expense
- Travel Insurance
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
- GST
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