(click to read detailed route briefing, elevation graph, altitude time info and photos from the day)
Standard 18D/17N
18 Days17 NightsCamp: 15 NightsHotel: 2 NightsPrimary
Acclimatization: 1 DaysContingency: 2 DaysCamp Rotation: 2 Days
Challenging+Max 6387 m
Route
Dehradun → Sankri → Seema → Rain Basera → Ruinsara Lake → Kiarkoti( Kalanag BC) → Kiarkoti → Kiarkoti → Kalanag C1 → Kalanag C1 → Kalanag C2 → Kalanag Camp 3 → Kalanag C2 → Kiarkoti → Devsu Thathch → Sankri → Dehradun → Sankri → Sankri
Terrain
CrevassesGlacial MoraineGlacier CrossingHard IceRockySnow Field
▲ Day 1Arrival Day
Arrive In Sankri
Overnight In: Sankri (1920m )
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Evening Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
drive from Dehradun to Sankri
- Day 1
- 320 - Dehradun
- Day 1
- 2000 - Mussurie
- Day 1
- 1500 - Purola
- Day 1
- 1920 - Sankri
200Km, 8hrs.▲ Day 2Trekking Day
From Sankri (1920m ) To Seema (2620m ), Via - Taluka (1800m ), Gangaad (1350m ) - 7 Hrs. 12 Kms
Overnight In: Seema (2620m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Drive to Taluka. Trek to Seema
- Day 2
- 1920 - Sankri
- Day 2
- 1800 - Taluka
- Day 2
- 1350 - Gangaad
- Day 2
- 2620 - Seema
12Km, 7hrs.▲ Day 3Trekking Day
From Seema (2650m ) To Rain Basera (3000m ), Via - Devsu Bugyal (2930m ) - 3 -4 Hrs. 5 Kms
Overnight In: Rain Basera (3000m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
trek to devsu bugyal and camp near rainbasera
- Day 3
- 2650 - Seema
- Day 3
- 2930 - Devsu Bugyal
- Day 3
- 3000 - Rain Basera
5Km, 3 -4hrs.▲ Day 4Trekking Day
From Rain Basera (2950m ) To Ruinsara Lake (3350m ) - 4 - 5 hour Hrs.
Overnight In: Ruinsara Lake (3350m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
trek to ruinsara lake
- Day 4
- 2950 - Rain Basera
- Day 4
- 3350 - Ruinsara Lake
4 - 5 hourhrs.▲ Day 5Trekking Day
From Ruinsara (3350m ) To Kiarkoti( Kalanag BC) (3989m ) - 5 Hrs.
Overnight In: Kiarkoti( Kalanag BC) (3989m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
trek top base camp
- Day 5
- 3350 - Ruinsara
- Day 5
- 3990 - Kiarkoti( Kalanag BC)
5hrs.▲ Day 6Rest & Acclimatization Day
Explore or Rest - 5 Hrs.
Overnight In: Kiarkoti (3989m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Rest day
- Day 6
- 3990 - Kiarkoti
- Day 6
- 3990 - Kiarkoti
5hrs.▲ Day 7Camp Rotation & Training Day
Load Ferry to Kalanag C1. Setup Campsite. Return To Kiarkoti - 6 Hrs.
Overnight In: Kiarkoti (3989m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Load Ferry To Camp 1
- Day 7
- 3990 - Kiarkoti
- Day 7
- 3990 - Kiarkoti
- Day 7
- 4375 - Kalanag C1
- Day 7
- 3990 - Kiarkoti
6hrs.▲ Day 8Trekking Day
From Kiarkoti (3989m ) To Kalanag C1 (4375m ) - 6 Hrs.
Overnight In: Kalanag C1 (4375m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Occupy Camp 1
- Day 8
- 3990 - Kiarkoti
- Day 8
- 4375 - Kalanag C1
6hrs.▲ Day 9Camp Rotation & Training Day
Load Ferry to Kalanag C2. Setup Campsite. Return To Kalanag C1 - 5 Hrs.
Overnight In: Kalanag C1 (4374m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Load Ferry to Camp 2
- Day 9
- 4375 - Kalanag C1
- Day 9
- 4375 - Kalanag C1
- Day 9
- 5000 - Kalanag C2
- Day 9
- 4375 - Kalanag C1
5hrs.▲ Day 10Trekking Day
From Kalanag C1 (5000m ) To Kalanag C2 (5500m ) - 5 Hrs.
Overnight In: Kalanag C2 (5500m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Occupy Camp 2
- Day 10
- 5000 - Kalanag C1
- Day 10
- 5500 - Kalanag C2
5hrs.▲ Day 11Trekking Day
From Kalanag C2 (5000m ) To Kalanag Camp 3 (5500m ) - 5 Hrs.
Overnight In: Kalanag Camp 3 (5500m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Occupy camp 3
- Day 11
- 5000 - Kalanag C2
- Day 11
- 5500 - Kalanag Camp 3
5hrs.▲ Day 12Summit Day
Summit Kalanag . Return To Kalanag C2 - 7 Hrs.
Overnight In: Kalanag C2 (5000m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Summit Kalanag
- Day 12
- 5500 - Kalanag Camp 3
- Day 12
- 6390 - Kalanag Summit
- Day 12
- 5000 - Kalanag C2
7hrs.▲ Day 13Trekking Day
From Kalanag C2 (4387m ) To Kiarkoti (3989m ) - 6 Hrs.
Overnight In: Kiarkoti (3989m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
trek back to Base Camp
- Day 13
- 4390 - Kalanag C2
- Day 13
- 3990 - Kiarkoti
6hrs.▲ Day 14Trekking Day
From Kiarkoti (3989m ) To Devsu Thathch (2930m ), Via - Ruinsara (3350m ) - 6 Hrs.
Overnight In: Devsu Thathch (2930m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
trek back to Devsu Bugyal
- Day 14
- 3990 - Kiarkoti
- Day 14
- 3350 - Ruinsara
- Day 14
- 2930 - Devsu Thathch
6hrs.▲ Day 15Trekking Day
From Devsu Bugyal (2930m ) To Sankri (1920m ), Via - Taluka (1800m ) - 7 Hrs.
Overnight In: Sankri (1920m )
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
return to sankri
- Day 15
- 2930 - Devsu Bugyal
- Day 15
- 1800 - Taluka
- Day 15
- 1920 - Sankri
7hrs.▲ Day 16Trekking Day
From Sankri (1920m ) To Dehradun (316m ) - 8 Hrs.
Overnight In: Dehradun (316m )
Accommodation: None
Meals Included: Morning tea, Breakfast
return to dehraun
- Day 16
- 1920 - Sankri
- Day 16
- 320 - Dehradun
8hrs.▲ Day 17Contingency Day
Explore, Rest or Prepare
Overnight In: Sankri (1920m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
This is a planned reserved day to keep a window for bad weather and other contingencies. If unutilized, we can spend this day at any other campsite of our liking. The cost of this day is included in the trek package. If you decide to finish your trek instead of utilizing this reserved day, no money will be refunded as the local resources and other expenses will be paid in full as planned for initially
- Day 17
- 1920 - Sankri
- Day 17
- 1920 - Sankri
5hrs.▲ Day 18Contingency Day
Explore, Rest or Prepare
Overnight In: Sankri (1920m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
This is a planned reserved day to keep a window for bad weather and other contingencies. If unutilized, we can spend this day at any other campsite of our liking. The cost of this day is included in the trek package. If you decide to finish your trek instead of utilizing this reserved day, no money will be refunded as the local resources and other expenses will be paid in full as planned for initially
- Day 18
- 1920 - Sankri
- Day 18
- 1920 - Sankri
5hrs.
Other Customizable Variations of the Kalanag Climbing Expedition
We are NOT just limited to these options. These are our most commonly requested and well planned customizations.
If you have a different requirement, talk to us.
We only organize lesser done, uncrowded, customizable & personalized, small group private trekking tours in the Himalayas with full safety protocol in place. All customizations will be guided by this principle only.
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Kalanag Climbing Expedition - A Detailed Overview
Top Reasons to Choose the Kalanag Climbing Expedition
- Black Peak or Kalanag is a 6387-meter peak in the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttrakhand guarding the pious shrine of Yamunotri and Gangotri.
- The west face of the peak is a wall of solid black rock and hence named Black Peak. It is also named Kalanag ( black snake ) as its west face of black rock also appears as the raised hood of a giant snake or Nag, which is religiously significant as Lord Shiva's necklace.
- While the other faces of the Black Peak are difficult to approach, its North Face is approachable and climbable with little technicalities.
- The route to the summit of Kalanag is crevassed and requires careful negotiations. Beyond the summit camp at 5600 meters, the route to its summit is very steep and requires good stamina, endurance, and technical skills.
- Comparing the standards of mountaineering skills that the Himalayas demands, the Kalanag Climbing Exp[edition is comparatively easier and can be taken as a training ground for amateur mountaineers who wish to start their mountaineering journey and get introduces to the rough and tough terrains of the Great Himalayas.
- Under experienced guides, this peak can be attempted by trekkers with good high altitude experiences in the Himalayas. However, having trained in snow, ice and rock skills helps.
- In our opinion, the Black Peak is one of the best peaks for amateur mountaineers and highly experienced trekkers. It is one of the easiest 6300+ meter peak to climb in the Himalayas, without the requirement of too many technical skills
- We feel that Kalanag is the most elegant peak in the Sankri Range of Garhwal Himalayas reaching an altitude of 6387 meters. It was first climbed in 1955 by the explorers of the Doon School who were one of the pioneers of mountain climbing and explorations in the Garhwal Himalayas
- There are multiple entries and exit points to the base camp of this peak. One Via Dhumdhar Kandi Pass and the other through Bali Pass. However, the easier one is via the Har Ki Dun river from Sankri.
Altitude and Acclimatization Profile For The Kalanag Climbing Expedition
Altitude and Acclimatization Profile For The Kalanag Climbing Expedition
- Day 1
- D1Dehradun
- Day 1
- Mussurie
- Day 1
- Purola
- Day 2
- D2Sankri
- Day 2
- Taluka
- Day 2
- Gangaad
- Day 3
- D3Seema
- Day 3
- Devsu Bugyal
- Day 4
- D4Rain Basera
- Day 5
- D5Ruinsara Lake
- Day 6
- D6Kiarkoti( Kalanag BC)
- Day 7
- D7Kiarkoti
- Day 7
- Kiarkoti
- Day 7
- Kalanag C1
- Day 8
- D8Kiarkoti
- Day 9
- D9Kalanag C1
- Day 9
- Kalanag C1
- Day 9
- Kalanag C2
- Day 10
- D10Kalanag C1
- Day 11
- D11Kalanag C2
- Day 12
- D12Kalanag Camp 3
- Day 12
- Kalanag Summit
- Day 13
- D13Kalanag C2
- Day 14
- D14Kiarkoti
- Day 14
- Ruinsara
- Day 15
- D15Devsu Thathch
- Day 15
- Taluka
- Day 16
- D16Sankri
- Day 17
- D17Dehradun
- Day 18
- D18Sankri
- Day 19
- Sankri
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to do the Kalanag Climbing Expedition?
Best months: May, Jun, Jul, Sep, Oct
Is mobile network available on the Kalanag Climbing Expedition?
Quick answer: Vodafone till Mori. BSNL till Sankri and Taluka
Is internet available on the Kalanag Climbing Expedition?
Quick answer: 3G on BSNL till Mori and 2G on Vodafone. Occasional 2G in Sankri
What type of trek is this?
Return Type Trek
In this type of trek, the entry point and exit point is same. You trek to a particular destination and return back to the same point
What is the accommodation type on this trek?
Camping
Camping treks are those where nights are spent in tents pitched at designated campsites. Camps are chosen for safety and practicality (stable ground, water availability, weather exposure, and minimal ecological impact). This style offers the most raw mountain experience and flexible route planning, but comfort depends on terrain and conditions.
What kind of toilet facilities can I expect on this trek?
Toilet tents are used at campsites (dry-pit / cat-hole system as per terrain and local regulations). Some camps may have basic fixed toilets near village camps, but do not expect permanent facilities.
How is food served during the trek?
Fresh meals are cooked by the trek staff at camp. Food is served hot in a common dining setup (dining tent or open area). Meals are generally simple, nutritious, and high-energy; menu depends on package and logistics.
How is human waste managed on this trek?
Human waste is handled using toilet tents and designated pits/cat-holes at safe distance from water sources. Sites are selected and managed to reduce contamination; toilet paper and hygiene waste are carried out where feasible or disposed as per local guidelines.
How is food waste managed on this trek?
Food waste is minimized through planned portions. Biodegradable waste is disposed responsibly away from water sources or carried down where required. Leftovers are avoided; nothing is dumped into streams.
How is plastic waste handled on this trek?
Plastic waste is segregated and carried back to the roadhead for proper disposal. Trekkers are encouraged to use refillable bottles; single-use plastics are discouraged/controlled.
How do you follow Leave No Trace principles on this trek?
Camps are left cleaner than found. Waste is segregated and carried out, trails are respected, water sources are protected, and noise is kept low. No littering, no washing with soap near streams, and no disturbance to wildlife or local culture.
What type of terrain can I expect on the Kalanag Climbing Expedition?
Rocky, Glacial Moraine, Glacier Crossing, Crevasses, Snow Field, Hard Ice
Is cloakroom / luggage storage available for the Kalanag Climbing Expedition?
Yes. Basic luggage storage is available.
Please note that this is not a secured locker facility.
Do not leave valuables, cash, jewelry, fragile items, or important documents.
Luggage is usually kept on a trust basis at the same hotel, homestay, or with known local contacts where we stay before and after the trek.
What kind of food is served on the Kalanag Climbing Expedition?
Indian, Garhwali, Nepali, Tibetan
We serve a mix of continental-style trek meals as well as simple, freshly cooked home-style food.
The exact menu and style of meals may vary depending on the trek itinerary, region, and the package you are booked on.
Meal inclusions typically cover:
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (BLD)
- Two tea breaks daily (morning and evening)
- Soup in the evening
- Fresh salads where feasible
- Dessert on select days
- Hot night beverage / tonic before sleeping
Please note that detailed, day-wise meal information is mentioned in the respective day’s itinerary wherever applicable.
Where does the Kalanag Climbing Expedition start?
Where does the Kalanag Climbing Expedition end?
What is the grade / difficulty of the Kalanag Climbing Expedition?
Challenging+The trek duration each day may span from 5 - 8 hours, and may go up to to 8 - 9 or even more than that on few days. The trail involves steep ascents and descents. Negotiating glacial moraines, scree zones, crossing them, camping on them etc are features of these treks. You might also require technical equipment like rope, ice axe and snow stacks etc to complete these treks. Good fitness are demand of any treks, but these treks demands strong character. Sleeping altitude may goes well above 5000 meters on some days. The trail might go as high as 5000 - 6000 meters. These trek are high and remote. A good technical support team and knowledgeable local guide is a must. Only experienced trekkers are advised to do these treks. The trek goes over 2 week and may be longer than that.
Sometimes irrespective of altitude and distance, a trek may ge graded Challenging if the route is treacherous, which might demand some footing skills or assistance of ropes and other equipment
What is the duration of the Kalanag Climbing Expedition?
18 days/ 17 nights, Sankri to Sankri
Is the Kalanag Climbing Expedition inside or near a national park?
Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and Sanctuary
Monday, January 5, 2026 8:23:51 PM
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