Experience the magic of the high Himalayas with the Hemkund – The Frozen Lake Expedition, a breathtaking high-altitude journey to one of the world’s highest glacial lakes at 13,700 feet. Surrounded by towering snow-clad peaks and pristine alpine landscapes, Hemkund offers a rare blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty.
This 9-day program is designed for participants with good physical fitness levels who are ready to explore the dramatic terrain of the Garhwal Himalayas. Your journey begins in Dehradun, with scenic transitions through Rishikesh and Auli to ensure gradual acclimatisation. You will trek through the lush Bhyundar Valley along the Laxman Ganga River, culminating in the highlight ascent to the legendary frozen lake. Post-trek, you can unwind in the picturesque hill station of Auli, famous for its panoramic Himalayan views, before concluding your journey with the serene Ganga Aarti (optional, time permitting), in Rishikesh.
With Foliage Outdoors, you are in safe and experienced hands. Our professional team manages every detail—from logistics and accommodations to meals and safety—so you can focus on enjoying the journey. This moderate trek is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a unique high-altitude Himalayan experience.
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Recommended Age Group: 14 years to 60 years
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Ideal For: Individuals, couples, families, and groups seeking a moderate Himalayan adventure.
- High-altitude trek to the majestic Hemkund – The Frozen Lake (13,700 ft) in the Garhwal Himalayas.
- Ideal for adventure seekers looking for a moderate Himalayan trekking experience.
- Scenic hiking through lush landscapes, turquoise river vistas, and dramatic mountain terrain.
- Breathtaking vistas of snow-covered peaks from Auli, India’s premier mountain destination.
- Picturesque journeys along the holy Ganga and Alaknanda Rivers.
- Relaxing evenings in Auli and the opportunity to witness the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh.
- Professional logistics, safe accommodations, and expert-led trekking for a worry-free experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Dehradun – Transfer to Rishikesh
Approx. 25 km / 1 hr
Upon arrival at Dehradun Airport, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel in Rishikesh (approximately a 1-hour drive). After you settle in, we will hold a detailed orientation and training session to prepare you for the adventure ahead. Overnight Stay in Rishikesh.
Meals: Evening Tea & Dinner
Day 2: Rishikesh – Auli
Altitude: 2,500 m / 8,202 ft
Approximate distance / Travel time: 270 km / 10 hrs
Today calls for an early start as we begin our scenic drive towards the charming hill station of Auli. Our route will trace the paths of the holy Ganga and Alaknanda rivers, winding through emerald valleys and dramatic mountain passes. We anticipate reaching Auli, India’s premier ski destination, by evening. Overnight Stay in Auli.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea & Dinner
Day 3: Auli – Into the Bhyundar Valley – Trek to Ghangaria
Altitude: 3,075 m / 10,090 ft
Drive: 35 km | Trek: 9 km / Approx. 5 hrs
After breakfast, a short drive brings us to Pulna, the starting point of our trek. We begin our hike through the lush Bhyundar Valley, following the turquoise waters of the Laxman Ganga river. The trail offers stunning mountain and river landscapes as we ascend toward our base for the next few days. Overnight Stay in Ghangaria.
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Evening Tea & Dinner
Day 4: Ghangaria – Acclimatisation & Trail Exploration
Altitude: 3,075 m / 10,090 ft
To ensure a safe climb to the higher altitudes, we spend the day acclimatising. We will take a short practice hike on the surrounding trails, allowing our bodies to adjust to the thinning air while soaking in the pristine mountain scenery and preparing for the summit hike. Overnight Stay in Ghangaria.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea & Dinner
Day 5: The Summit Hike – Hemkund – The Frozen Lake
Altitude: 4,175 m / 13,700 ft
Trek: 12 km / Approx. 9–10 hrs (round trip)
The big day! We embark on a challenging uphill trek to the holy Hemkund Sahib. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the magnificent "Frozen Lake" and a panoramic view of the Bhyundar Valley surrounded by snow-clad peaks. After spending time at the summit, we trek back down to our base at Ghangaria. Overnight Stay in Ghangaria.
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Evening Tea & Dinner
Day 6: Ghangaria – Descend to Pulna – Return to Auli
Altitude: 2,500 m / 8,202 ft
Trek: 9 km | Drive: 35 km
After a hearty breakfast, we begin our descent, trekking back to Pulna. From Pulna, we’ll take a vehicle transfer back to Auli. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy the comfort of the hotel after your successful summit. Overnight Stay in Auli.
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Evening Tea & Dinner
Day 7: Auli – Leisure & Himalayan Panoramas
Altitude: 2,500 m / 8,202 ft
Enjoy a day of leisure in Auli. You can opt for a thrill-filled afternoon with Chair Car rides, ATVs, or Horse treks (at additional cost), or take an optional day trip to Badrinath and Mana. In the evening, we gather for a sharing session to exchange trek stories, followed by dinner and light music. Overnight Stay in Auli.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea & Dinner
Day 8: Auli – Return Drive to Rishikesh
Approx. 270 km / 10 hrs
Following breakfast, we start our return journey, driving back to Rishikesh through the dramatic mountain passes of the Garhwal range. The evening is yours to relax, or we head to the riverbanks to witness the famous Ganga Aarti—a vibrant and atmospheric ceremony that serves as a memorable conclusion to our expedition. Overnight Stay in Rishikesh.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea & Dinner
Day 9: Departure from Rishikesh – Dehradun Airport Transfer
Approx. 25 km / 1 hr
After breakfast, you'll be transferred back to Dehradun Airport for your departure. As you head home, cherish the memories of the Himalayan heights and the successful completion of the Frozen Lake expedition.
Meals: Breakfast
What is included in the tour
- Chartered non-AC vehicle for all local transfers as per the itinerary
- Accommodation in a Deluxe hotel in Rishikesh, Ghangria and Auli on twin /triple sharing
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- Services of Foliage Outdoors trained camp leader(s), equipped with first-aid and knowledge of the region.
- Up to 10 kg of luggage per participant transferred on mules on the trek route (Pulna – Ghangria – Pulna)
What is NOT included in the tour
- Flight or train tickets to and from Dehradun
- Bottled mineral water, cold drinks, and any other beverages purchased during the journey or at the destination
- Personal expenses such as personal porterage, telephone calls, laundry, room service, etc.
- Medical expenses, if incurred
- Travel insurance
- Expenses arising due to reasons beyond the control of the organisers (natural calamities, roadblocks, weather conditions, etc.)
- Ropeway/cable car tickets at Auli (if operational)
- Goods and Services Tax as applicable.
- Any other charges not mentioned under “Inclusions”
