Max Altitude
14,272 FT
Grade
Moderate
Duration
6 Days
Trekking KM.
50 KM
Suitable for: | 10+ years |
Experience: | First timer can apply, previous trekking experience is more appreciated. |
Fitness: | cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without a stress. |
Trek Info
Why Satopanth Is A Must-Do Trek?
Set at an elevation of 4600 m above sea level, Satopanth is a crystal clear emerald lake located in the Garhwal Himalayas. Surrounded by snow-clad mountains on all sides, the setting of the lake fills you with immense tranquility. The trek is becoming quite popular in recent times and is known for its religious significance and grand mountain views.
Satopanth Lake is triangular and can be easily accessed from Lakshmi Van near Badrinath. According to Hindi mythology, it is said that the Trimurti – Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh all meditated together on the three corners of the lake. Some mythological stories also say that the Pandavas took the path to heaven from Mana Village via Satopanth Tal to reach the steps of heaven at Mt. Swargorohini.
The lake is not the only attraction of the trek but the trail itself passes through many scenic wonders. The trail goes through Mana Village, which is the last village in India and you will also cross two beautiful waterfalls – Sahastradhara and Vasundhara. Also, Lakshmi Van and Khakrateertha are two beautiful campsites along the trail, and camping in these meadows is a highlight of the trek as well.
From the lake, you can see clear views of Mt. Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Balakun, and Swargarohini. The trail to Satopanth Lake is situated at the base of Mt. Nelkanth, so you get an amazing view of the Mountain after you cross the Lakshmi Van forest. The beautiful forests, ancient temples, quaint villages, lovely meadows, and breathtaking mountain views make Satopanth a must-do trek.
About The Trek?
The trek starts from the pilgrim town of Badrinath and goes through Mana, the last village of India on the Indo-Tibet border. The lake is approximately 22 km from Badrinath and it is a moderate-grade trek, suitable for both expert trekkers and fit beginners.
From Badrinath, you will travel 3 km to Mana Village, and from there follow the trail by the Alaknanda River to its snout at Alakpuri, and follow through an undulating path to Laxmiban meadows followed by Chakrateerth meadows and to Satopanth Lake.
From Satopanth Lake, we will return to Chakrateerth, and then the following day return to Badrinath and the next day you will return to Rishikesh, thus ending the journey to Satopanth Tal.
What Can You Expect At The Trek?
Satopanth Lake is situated at an altitude of 4600 meters above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks. This rewarding trek offers an unobstructed view of Chaukhamba and other mountain peaks in its vicinity. The trail to the lake is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty from snow-covered mountains to gushing streams, rivulets, and forests of Oak and Pine.
The trek has a moderate grade and is thus suitable for beginners. Throughout the entire trek, you cover a distance of approximately 50 km in 5 days. The temperature stays around 18 deg C during the day and can drop to as low as -5 deg C at night. Carry warm clothes with you to protect yourself from the cold. The last ATM point is in Joshimath after which there are no ATM points. It is better if you withdraw cash from Rishikesh itself.
During the trek, you will cross Bhim Pul, a natural rock formation, and get to see Vasundhara Falls, which is a 400 ft tall incredible waterfall. During the beginning of the trek, you can also visit the Badrinath Temple and take blessings from Lord Vishnu. There are no permanent establishments on the trail so we will be staying in tents during the trek.
We provide transportation from Rishikesh to Rishikesh and the meals and stays between the trek are included in the cost.
Health Awareness
Government Employees {SCL}
Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when you join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and Ministry Of Tourism (MOT)
Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before trek departure date.
Note
Note:
l Distance, Altitude and Trekking hours are approximate and rounded off
l Keep the original and copy of ID proof handy
l Come one day early if planning to come by plane
This is the first day of your journey and it commences from Rishikesh. Our representatives will pick you up from Rishikesh and drive you all the way to Pipalkoti. The journey takes you on a picturesque ride alongside the Bhagirathi River. Pipalkoti is about 200 km away from Rishikesh and it takes about 9 to 10 hrs to reach Badrinath depending on the weather and road conditions. Along the way, you also get to see the confluence of the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi which merge together at Devprayag and flow as one in the form of Ganga.
On reaching Pipalkoti, we will check into a hotel and rest for the night giving the body enough time to acclimatize to the high altitude. You can take a preventive course of Diamox to help your body acclimatize faster to the higher altitudes.
We will start the trek early in the morning as we have to cover a distance of 9 km today. Starting from Badrinath, we will walk towards Mana Village from where the trek starts. Badrinath to Mana is 3 km and from Mana, it is 6 km to Lakshmi Van. Mana is considered the last village of India and lies 26 km from the Indo-China border. You can also spot the road that goes to the border, although it is restricted only to people belonging to the army. Here you will have your permit checked before you continue on towards Laxmi Van.
From Mana village, you will spot a trail that deviates towards the left of the Alaknanda River and for 2 to 3 km the trail is well-paved. About 3 km from the village lies the Vasundhara Falls, a 400 ft waterfall cascading down in white sheets of water. Vasundhara falls is a popular spot among tourists. The locals believe that the water of the falls as well as the Alaknanda River has medicinal value and many people store water from these water sources.
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You can fill your water bottles from the waterfall. Keep hydrated as you will slowly gain altitude. After you cross the waterfall continue on the left bank of the river. You will now walk on moraines for the next 3 hrs and soon you will reach the Laxmi Van campsite. Laxmi Van campsite is located at an altitude of 11,900 ft and is covered with green and well-shaded by Bhoj Patra trees. From the campsite, you can see the Alkapuri Glacier, the source of the Alaknanda River. The glacier is situated at the base of the Balakun peak and you can witness the river flowing from the snout of the glacier. Overnight stay will be in tents.
Today’s trek is slightly more difficult than the previous day as you will gain more than 2000 ft of altitude. Even though the route is difficult but it becomes quite scenic as you enter the Satopanth Valley. The trail again follows the bank of the Alaknanda River and we will walk on a patch of grassland passing along the middle of the terminal moraine of Dhano Glacier. Once you cross this patch, the view of Bhagirathi peaks begins to open up in front of you. Although the peaks are visible only if the weather is clear.
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Trekking for about 5 km, you will reach another gorgeous waterfall called Shastradhara and from here you can spot Mt. Neelkanth on your left. Shasatradhara is a culmination of more than 100 small waterfalls, streaming down a huge monolith. Weather can be quite unpredictable here post noon so we will try to begin our trek as early as possible. Chakrateertha Campsite is about half an hour away from this spot.
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The campsite lies on a flat patch of a clearing. This is where we will pitch our tents for the night. Make sure you have enough warm layers on and cover your head properly. The temperature here during the daytime is 5°C to 10°C and at night it can stoop down to 0°C to -5°C. It is also important to check signs of altitude sickness at this altitude. If you are showing signs like headache, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, or dizziness then you should report to the Trek Leader immediately. Tonight we will camp amidst greenery and towering peaks.
Today is one of the most exciting as well as the scenic day of the trek. Today you will trek to the mystical Satopanth Lake. Wake up to a wonderful mountain view with Mt. Chaukhamba in the center, Mt. Nelekanth on the left, and Mt. Balakun on the right. This view will stay in your mind for a long time.
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The trek starts with an easy gradient as you walk on a flat grassland and after about 2 km the trek snakes around boulders and moraines. This can be a tricky section and you need to be very cautious as you navigate around this zone. Trekking poles can be of good help here.
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Continue walking on the ridge, Satopanth Tal isn’t visible until you reach the top of the ridge. With a perimeter of over 1 km, the lake is simply huge. It is triangular in shape and as the legends go, it is believed that the trinity Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh meditated on the three corners of the lake. You can also see a small shelter made of stone near the lake. A local sage by the name of Mauni Baba is said to live here.
The lake is bluish in color and an interesting fact about Satopanth Lake is that the water of the lake remains clear all year round. Also on a clear day, you can see three out of the seven steps of the Swargarohini Glacier. It is believed that the Pandavas followed these steps to ascend into heaven.
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Sit around the lake, admire its beauty and enjoy its serenity for some time before you make your way back to the Chakrateertaha Campsite. It takes about 2 to 3 hrs to descend down to the campsite from the lake.
Today is the last day of trekking in the mountains and we will be descending down to Badrinath today. It is a long walk of 15 km from Chakrateertha to Badrinath and will take about 5 to 6 hrs. We need to start as early as possible so that we can cover the long distance comfortably.
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Post breakfast, we will start on our trek. From Chakrateertha, we will take the same route that we came in. We will first descend to Laxmi Van and then to Mana followed by a gentle walk to Badrinath. At Badrinath, we will check into a hotel. In the evening, you can roam around the market, and visit the Badrinath Temple. There’s also a hot water spring in Badrinath, where you can take a dip.
The beautiful time in the mountains ends today as you will be driven back to Rishikesh. Wake up early and have a delicious breakfast post which we will start our drive towards Rishikesh.
The drive will be along the same scenic routes where you can reminisce about your journey. It will take 9 to 10 hrs approximately to reach Rishikesh. You can expect to reach Rishikesh by 7 PM.
At first you have to reach Rishikesh, after that TTH will take care of your further travel plan.
Our Pick-up place
Trek The Himalayas Head office, Tapovan Laxmanjhula, Landmark -Nainital Bank opposite Shiv Vilas Hotel
Options to reach Rishikesh
1. Take overnight train/bus to Rishikesh.
2. Take overnight train/bus to Haridwar and drive to Rishikesh (35 min drive with normal traffic).
We always recommend to go for the govt. Buses over the private ones outside the bus station as based on the experience we have found that there are very high chances of delay involved with private buses. Also, govt. Buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, just make sure to reach Rishikesh at least by 05:30 am positively.
3. Take the flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport) and drive to Rishikesh (20 km, 30 min), if coming by flight then come one day early.
1. Inclusions :
Accommodation :
• Guest house in Pipalkoti (Day 1 and Day 6 as per the itinerary)
• Camping while on trek (twin sharing)
2. All meals while on trek (veg + Egg) :
• All meals (including tea, soup, snacks etc.) from Day 1 Dinner to day 5 dinner
3. Support :
• Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader.
• High Altitude chef.
• Support staff.
4. Safety Equipment :
• First aid medical kits
• Stretcher
• Oxygen Cylinder
5. Trekking Equipment :
• Sleeping bag, Mattress.
• Trekker’s tent (twin sharing), Kitchen & Dinning tent, Toilet tent
• Gaiters and micro spikes (if required)
6. All necessary permits and entry fees
7. Mules to carry central equipment
8. Trek Completion Certificate
1. Any kind of personal expenses.
2. Transportation - Rishikesh to Pipalkoti & Return.
3. Food during the transit.
4. Insurance.
5. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
6. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head "Price Includes".
Things can be provided on demand and availability (participant has to pay extra for these things)
1- Satellite phone/setphone - is a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cellphones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.
2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) - is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.
3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) - are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly
Normally TTH expect to carry your personal luggage on your own, if you wish to offload your backpack, you can give it to Mule.
Charges of offloading backpack:-
INR 3,500/- if you make an online payment, 10 days in advance
INR 3,900/- if you inform us after reaching Base camp
The backpack cannot weigh more than 11 kgs. Backpack should have waterproof cover. Suitcases/strolleys/ bags will not be allowed.
To book a Trek/ adventure program please use our online booking form or, alternatively, you can call us on the given for confirmation of tour you have to wire a deposit and initial deposit.
Special Offers
Make a single payment and trek the number of times you want.
If you book a trek with Trek The Himalayas and are unable to complete the same or you have successfully completed that trek and want to do it again, you can repeat it multiple times without paying the cost of the trek.
Terms and conditions
Trek Cost - Rs 19,400 (Pipalkoti to Pipalkoti)
GST - 5% (Mandatory)
Insurance - Rs 210 (Mandatory)
Transportation - Rs 1,600 (Rishikesh to Pipalkoti and return) (Optional)
Off load Backpack - Rs 3,500 Online (Optional)
The add-on options can be selected during the booking process. In case you miss selecting it at that time, you can simply log in to your account and book the add-on option from there.
Cancellation terms:
For the cancellation of services due to any avoidable/unavoidable reasons, Trek The Himalayas must be notified of the same in writing at [email protected] At the time we receive your written cancellation, refunds based on the total fare are as follows.
Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek
Refund options
In the unlikely event that TTH cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:
While it is extremely rare for TTH to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.
In the event of such a cancellation, TTH will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.
Note
In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:
We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.
In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.
Note:
Cash Voucher Terms:
Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.
Back pack & rain cover | (50 - 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack + rain cover | 20 - 30 ltr (If hire a mule or porter) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water bottle/Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
T-shirts | 4 Full sleeves (Non-cotton) |
Fleece T-shirts | 1 Nos. |
Fleece jacket | 1 Nos. (Alternative: a woollen sweater) |
Down feather / Hollofil jacket | 1 Nos. |
Wind & waterproof (jacket & pant) | 1 Pair |
Thermal inners (upper and lower) | 1 Pair |
Trek pants | 3 Synthetic (avoid shorts, fitting denims, capris) |
Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
Fleece/woolen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho | 1 Nos. |
Sunscreen cream | Moisturiser |
Hand sanitizer | Antibacterial powder |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | Lip balm / Chapstick |
Toilet Paper & wipes | Quick dry towel |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Sun cap | 1 Nos. (One that covers the neck as well) |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. (Optional) |
Neck-gaiters | 2 Nos. |
Sunglasses | Dark with side cover, it should be U/V protected, People who wear spectacles- (A)- Use contact lenses. (B)- Photo chromatic glasses. |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle with good grip) |
Floaters/flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (TTH will Provide) |
Fitness regime for:
Moderate |
Calculate Your BMI :
Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!
BMI Range | Category |
---|---|
Less than 16.5 | Serverely Underweight |
16.5 - 18.5 | Underweight |
18.5 - 25 | Normal |
25 - 30 | Overweight |
Customise Trek
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The Satopanth Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that will push you beyond your limits and immerse you in the beauty of nature. The trail takes you through remote mountain villages, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks, offering stunning views of the Himalayan range. Along the way, you'll also encounter the region's unique culture and traditions, adding to the richness of your experience.
Satopanth Lake Trek is a moderate-grade trek.
The best time to do the Satopanth Lake Trek is Summer (Mid Apr-Jun) and autumn (Sep - Mid Nov)
Satopanth Lake Trek takes 6 days to complete the trek.
To undertake the Satopanth Lake Trek, you need to obtain a permit from the Forest Department of Uttarakhand. The permit is mandatory as the trek passes through the protected area of the Gangotri National Park. When you trek with us, we obtain all the permits by ourselves.
The maximum altitude of Satopanth Lake Trek is 14,272 ft.
During the Satopanth Lake Trek, you will stay in a guest house in the base camp, and on the slopes, you will be staying in tents (twin-sharing).
Satopanth Lake Trek is a 50 km trek.
Here are some of the essentials you should carry for the trek:
1. Trekking shoes: A good pair of trekking shoes is essential for a comfortable trek. Make sure your shoes are well-fitted, sturdy and provide good grip on the trail.
2. Warm Clothing: The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it's important to carry warm clothing, including thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, down jacket, and waterproof jacket.
3. Trekking pants: Carry comfortable and quick-drying trekking pants that are suitable for the weather conditions.
4. Backpack: A good quality backpack with a capacity of 40-50 liters is ideal for carrying your essentials during the trek.
5. Sleeping bag: A good quality sleeping bag is essential for a comfortable stay during the camping nights.
6. Headlamp/Flashlight: Carry a good quality headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for trekking during early morning or late evening hours.
7. Water bottle: Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated throughout the trek.
8. Snacks: Carry energy bars, dry fruits, and snacks for instant energy during the trek.
9. First aid kit: Carry a basic first aid kit, including band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relief spray, and medicines for altitude sickness.
10. Sun protection: Carry sunscreen lotion, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the harsh sun rays.
11. Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help in maintaining balance and reduce the strain on your knees while trekking.
The Satopanth Lake Trek is a moderately difficult trek that involves hiking in high altitudes, rugged terrains, and unpredictable weather conditions. However, with proper planning, preparation, and safety measures, the trek can be a safe and enjoyable experience.
It is essential to undertake the trek under the guidance of experienced and certified trek operators who have the necessary expertise and knowledge of the region. They can help you prepare for the trek, arrange for necessary equipment and supplies, and ensure that safety protocols are followed at all times.