Panwali Kantha

Overview

The Panwali Kantha Trek is one of the most scenic and less-explored meadow treks in the Garhwal Himalayas, known for its vibrant alpine flora and panoramic Himalayan views. Situated at an altitude of 3,700 mtr, Panwali Kantha offers a unique vantage point where trekkers can witness the entire range of Yamunotri–Gangotri–Kedarnath–Badrinath peaks, including Thalay Sagar, Meru, Kirti Stambh, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, and Nilkanth. The trek follows an ancient pilgrimage trail once connecting Gangotri to Kedarnath, passing through charming villages, rhododendron forests, and vast alpine meadows. Each season transforms the landscape—from blooming red and pink rhododendrons in spring to snow-laden slopes in winter—making it an ideal year-round adventure for both nature lovers and spiritual seekers.

Quick Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Sonprayag

• Distance: 204 km
• Duration: 8-9 hours

Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Rishikesh to Soanprayag, passing through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi. Enjoy views of the Alaknanda River and the Himalayan foothills before reaching the base point for the Kedarnath trek. Overnight stay in Soanprayag.

Day 2: Drive from Soanprayag to Triyugi Narayan and Trek Maggu Chatti 

• Trek Distance: 8 km
• Trek Duration: 4 hours
• Altitude: 2,200 mtr to 3,250 mtr
• Drive Distance: 11 km
• Drive Duration: 45 min

Drive from Sonprayag, visiting the sacred Triyugi Narayan Temple en route. Ascend trek through forests, mountain ridges, and rhododendron-filled meadows to reach Maggu Chatti.

Day 3: Maggu Chatti to Kyunkhola Khal

• Distance: 6km
• Duration: 5 hours
• Altitude: 3,250 mtr to 3,300 mtr

Trek through snow slopes and rocky trails with views of Bhartekhunta and Mandani Parbat. Descend to the serene campsite below Kyunkhola Pass beside a glacial stream.

Day 4:  Kyunkhola Khal to Panwali Kantha

• Distance: 10 km
• Duration: 7 hours
• Altitude: 3,300 mtr to 3,700 mtr

Ascend gradually to Kyunkhola Pass and walk through snow-carpeted meadows to reach Panwali Kantha, offering a sweeping view of the Garhwal Himalayas. 

Day 5:  Panwali Kantha - Ghuttu Village

• Distance: 10 km
• Duration: 7 hours
• Altitude: 3,700 mtr to 3,100 mtr

Descend along the vast bugyals and forest ridges toward Ghuttu Village, enjoying panoramic Himalayan vistas and vibrant mountain landscapes.

Day 6: Drive to Rishikesh

• Drive Distance: 150 km
• Drive Duration: 5 hours

Conclude your trek with a scenic drive back to Rishikesh. The route winds through lush valleys, river confluences, and charming mountain towns, offering a final glimpse of the Garhwal landscape. Reach Rishikesh by evening, marking the end of an enriching Himalayan adventure.