1. What is the Bhilangana Valley Trek?
The Bhilangana Valley Trek is a scenic and adventurous trek in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. It explores the Bhilangana Valley, an offbeat region that is less visited by trekkers, offering lush forests, alpine meadows, and views of snow-capped peaks.
2. What is the difficulty level of the Bhilangana Valley Trek?
The Bhilangana Valley Trek is considered to be moderate in difficulty. It involves some steep ascents, river crossings, and traversing rugged terrain, but it’s not highly technical.
3. What is the best time to do the Bhilangana Valley Trek?
The best time to trek in Bhilangana Valley is during the summer (May to June) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
4. What should I pack for the Bhilangana Valley Trek?
For the Bhilangana Valley Trek, pack light and ensure you have the following essentials:
- Trekking shoes with good grip (suitable for rocky and uneven terrain)
- Warm clothing (even in summer, temperatures can drop at night)
- Rain gear (poncho or rain jacket)
- A warm sleeping bag (if camping, especially in higher campsites)
- Water bottles and a water purification system (like tablets or a filter)
- Trekking poles (optional, but useful for steep ascents/descents)
- First aid kit (including altitude sickness medication, pain relievers, and bandages)
5. What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Accommodation on the Bhilangana Valley Trek is generally tented. You’ll camp in scenic locations, such as in alpine meadows, near rivers, and in forest clearings. Basic facilities will be available, and meals are usually prepared at camp by your trek team.
6. Do I need a guide for the Bhilangana Valley Trek?
While it is possible to attempt the Bhilangana Valley Trek independently, it is highly recommended to take a local guide or join an organized trekking group. The region is remote, and the trails can be less-marked, so having a guide ensures safety, smooth navigation, and enhances the overall experience by providing local insights.
7. What is the weather like on the Bhilangana Valley Trek?
The weather in Bhilangana Valley can vary depending on the season:
- Summer (May to June): Pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 15°C to 20°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to 5°C to 10°C.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, moderate temperatures, and crisp evenings with temperatures dropping to around 0°C to 5°C at higher campsites.
- Winter (December to February): Cold, with snow at higher elevations. Temperatures can fall below -5°C at night, especially in campsites at higher altitudes.
8. What wildlife can I expect to see on the Bhilangana Valley Trek?
The Bhilangana Valley is home to various species of wildlife and birds, including:
- Himalayan Monal (state bird of Uttarakhand)
- Musk Deer
- Himalayan Black Bear (rare sightings)
- Leopard, although very rarely seen
- Various species of birds, butterflies, and small mammals
9. How do I reach the starting point of the Bhilangana Valley Trek?
The Bhilangana Valley Trek usually starts from Gangori or Sewal, which can be reached by road from Dehradun or Haridwar:
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are Haridwar and Dehradun, both of which are well-connected to major cities in India.
- By Road: You can take a bus or taxi from Haridwar or Dehradun to the base camp (Gangori or Sewal), which takes about 6-8 hours.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun, approximately 20-30 km from the starting point of the trek.
10. What food is provided during the Bhilangana Valley Trek?
Food provided during the Bhilangana Valley Trek typically includes vegetarian meals like rice, dal, vegetables, chapati, and some snacks. Meals are generally simple but nutritious, and energy snacks like fruits, nuts, and energy bars can be carried for extra sustenance.