- Event Start date:May 7, 2024 at 2:00 PM
- Event end date:May 13, 2024 at 10:00 AM
Munial Thoor Summit
The Land of Rainbow Bird
TREK OVERVIEW
Destination: Munial Thood
Region: Chamoli District
State: Uttarakhand
Trek duration: 4 Nights / 5 Days
Trek Level: Easy to Moderate
Max. Altitude: 3657 metres.
Trek Length: 14 kilometres.
Overlanding & Trek Package: Rs. 11,000 + GST
TREK ITINERARY
Dehradun / Rishikesh / Kathgudam To Lohajung Base Camp
Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand, situated at 240 kilometres;
Travel time by road from Delhi is 7 hours/ by air 30 minutes from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun / by train 6 hrs from NDLS, Delhi
Rishikesh is situated at 263 kms.north-east from Delhi; Travel time by road is 6.30 hrs.
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is 16 kms. from Rishikesh, travel time 30 mins. by road
KathGudam is situated at 302 kilometres, north east from Delhi; Travel time by road is 6 hrs.
Lohajung Base Camp from Dehradun is 292 kms.
Lohajung Base Camp from Rishikesh is 255 kms.
Lohajung Base Camp from Kathgudam is 216 kms.
Devprayag # Srinager # Rudraprayag # Karnprayag # Tharali # Dewal # Lohajung Base Camp
Complete Trek Route 28 kms.
Wan Village # Shonali Dhar # Kokina Khal # Munial Thood Summit # Wan Village
TREK HIGHLIGHTS
Mountain state of Uttarakhand is home to many picturesque and serene villages that are a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle amidst the lush green valleys, snow crowned mountain peaks, primordial forests and pristine rivers. These villages lie like hidden gems, each with its own story to tell.
Munial Thood Summit Trek begins at the mysterious yet enchanting Latu Devta temple of Wan village.
Munial Thood Summit is a yet uncharted trail popularly known as Monal Top
Munial Thood literally depicts as the nestle to the Uttarakhand state bird Monal or Lophophorus
Uphill trail to Munial Thood Summit is an astonishing natural wonderland where at every step surprises awaits till you finally attain to the Summit cutting across the alpine meadows, moraine ridges, pine forests, valleys, sleepy villages and rivers, while offering you spectacular views of the snow capped peaks of the Garhwal Mountain range.
On the way to Munial Thood often a quick interaction with the leisurely busy mountain community happens just like in those mountain films, a herd of cattles, the furry black dog, school children on their way back home with solta (local bamboo-made backpack), pakhola (Local woolen long gown) clad women carrying heaps of dried leaves on their back to feed their cows and buffaloes…
Munial Thood trail is the perfect bio-diverse arena for ecologically conscious, sensible hikers, trekkers, photographers, bloggers, musicians and adventure loving souls. On the way trekkers may have gentle encounters with wild boars, Barasinga (Himalayan goat), wild beers and foot prints of leopards as they leave the human zone even before we trace them.
The route to reach Munial Thood Summit from the ancient village of Wan is an everlasting escape from the modern world and getting close to nature experiencing an authentic, immersive Epic Trip.
Munial Thood Summit paints a vast panoramic view of the Garhwal Himalayas Range, The JAONLI, GANGOTRI, JOGIN, BHARTE KHUNTA KEDARNATH, KEDAR DOME PEAKS, SUMERU PARBAT, CHAUKHAMBA, NEELKANTH, KAMET, HATHI-GHORA PARBAT, DUNAGIRI, and TRISULI, NANDAGHUGATI, MIRGTHUNI, DEVTOLI, MAIKTOLI…
Trek to Munial Thood puts us back in time confronting our uber modern self doused with existential metaphor, excessiveness and unending clutter while keeping that eloquent chirping in the background for a long long time….
DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 1
Driving your own vehicle
Reach Rishikesh DIY Overlanding Camping site by 4 pm before dusk.
DAY 2
Start at 7 am from Rishikesh with your own vehicle
PICK UP AT 7 AM from Dehradun / Rishikesh / Kathgudam PICK UP POINT (expense borne by customer)
Journey to LOHAJUNGBASE CAMP via THARALI by road
JOURNEY TIME 7 to 8 hrs.
Lohajung Base Camp is at 2300 mtrs.
Lohajung takes us inside an escape into a medieval story, a hamlet tucked away in the heart of the Himalayas’ mysteries. The village is located in the Chamoli region of the Garhwal ranges of the Himalayan highlands at an elevation of 2300 meters.Deeply rooted in mythology, the residents of Lohajung affirm that the village was the site of a battle between the goddess Parvati and the demon Lohasur, in which Parvati triumphed. As a result, this place was given the name Lohajung.
Lohajung is much sought after by mountain tourists all through the year for its remote location, village tourism, bird watching, organic terrace farming and the recently added 1.5 km long Zip line… Lohajung is draped in a white sheet of snow in the winter and has a tropical environment in the summer, creating a suitable destination throughout the entire year.There are Trek routes that pass through the surrounding villages on their way to high altitude Himalayan destinations like Brahmatal Lake, Homkund Lake, Ronti Saddle, Khamil peak and a few other locations.
To acclimatize and prepare for their climb, trekkers typically settle up at our Alpine base camps at the heart of the settlement of Lohajung.
After reaching Lohajung Base Camp the Trekkers bond over relaxation with local organic food and beverages.
Early dinner & Night halt at Lohajung Base Camp.
DIY Overlanding & Camping at Lohajung Campsite
DAY 3
13 kms. Drive by road from Lohajung Base Camp to Wan Village
7 kms. Up-TREK from Wan Village to Shonali Dhar via Latu Devta Mandir, 2743 metres.
Trek time 5 hours
Activites @ Lohajung Base Camp in the morning
❖ Acclimatization
❖ Introduction to Munial Thood Summit Trek
❖ Introduction to your Trek- Leader
❖ Trek Gadget check
❖ Primary Health Parameter monitoring
After breakfast the Trek will commence at 8am. in summer / 10am. in winter
Wan village is surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan mountain peaks in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. Situated at a height of 2480 metres above sea level, the village is home to about 300 families who live in small hamlets spread in an area of about 10 sq kms.
Villagers from the entire Wan hamlet take pride in their inherent connection to their roots that has made the village – and other settlements nearby – stand out in a state witnessing rapid migration from the hills.
Wan is showing the way in adapting to nature as a means of economic sustenance.The young and old in the village are often busy in collecting makku (lichen), a combination of fungus and algae that grows on the barks of oak, brown oak, deodar and rhododendrons. Used in natural dyes, deodorants, enamel paints and in medicinal ointments because of its antibiotic properties, a kilo of makku sells for anything between Rs 80 to 120. Others would climb as high as 17000 feet during the beginning of summer in search of the precious ‘keerajari’ (ophiocordyceps sinensis), a fungus valued as a herbal remedy. Also known as yarsagumba locally, the fungus appears in the meadows as the snow melts.
In Wan, indigenous farmers community here grow potatoes, chaulai (amaranth), soya beans, kidney beans and wheat in abundance along with medicinal herbs. The pastoral stretch above the villages are ideal for animal grazing, the community of animal herders are settled with cattle such as ships, mules, goats at the meadows for 6 long months from summer to autumn.
The enigmatic temple of Latu Devta in Wan Village holds unique importance to the entire mountain community. Latu Devta Mandir sits at a staggering height of 8500 feet, this temple attracts devotees not just for its divine presence but for its unconventional rituals and intriguing legends. Unlike most Hindu temples, the idol of the deity remains forever unseen to the devotees , while on the full moon day in the month of Vaishakh, priests perform rituals at the Latu Devta Temple.During these rituals, the priests keep their eyes blindfolded and even place cotton inside their noses. This unique practice adds to the temple’s mystique. Local lore attributes this unusual practice to the presence of a powerful Nagamani (serpent gem) within the temple sanctum. It is believed that gazing upon the gem can lead to blindness.
According to a Puranic folk tale, Latu Devta served as Nanda Devi’s army commander. During one of her processions, he stopped for the night at Wan village. An old woman offered him water, but there were two pots – one containing water and the other, local liquor. Mistaking the liquor for water, Latu Devta consumed it. As punishment for this transgression, he was condemned to forever reside in the village, protecting its inhabitants.
Another legend suggests Latu Devta was a wandering ascetic who attained enlightenment in the Wan region. The villagers, recognizing his spiritual power, began worshiping him as a deity.
The spiritual tradition surrounded by Latu Devta transcends a mere religious practice to a vibrant expression of the unique culture and folklore of the Garhwal region. The annual festival strengthens social bonds as villagers come together to celebrate their shared faith. The stories surrounding Latu Devta passed down through generations, weaving a rich tapestry of local history and beliefs.
Our team of trekkers move forward along with the mountaineer trek guide from the temple towards Shaonali dhar high altitude campsite. The route crosses through strips of huts and settlements for a good 2 hours. Traces of civilization slowly give way to the forest of Oak, Rhododendron and Khorshu…. Birds tweet around creating the perfect symphony with the bohemian jingle of mountain streams… slowly mountain ranges start opening up – majestic Ali and Bedini meadows and Trishuli range of snow capped mountain range appears…
Once we move further into the forest a gradual steep ascent welcomes us with powdery cover of snow in winter and a carpet of colorful rustic forest plantation in spring, summer, monsoon and autumn. Chirping birds, rustling wind, flowing water stream transcends into an animal kingdom within a blink of an eye… In that trance you hear somebody is calling you from that flocking blue colour alpine tent…. Finally we are happily together in the wild again for the night halt…. the smell of locally produced ginger green tea with crispy roasted amaranth laddu settles the mood for the evening…. sun sets in the background.
DAY 4
6 kms. Up-TREK from Shonali Dhar Campsite to Kokina Khal, 3048 mtrs. Trek time 4 -5 hrs.
Activites @ Shonali Dhar Campsite @ 3048 mtrs.
❖ Pre- Trek Physical Training
❖ Trek equipment maneuvering
❖ Knowledge sharing
❖ After breakfast the Trek commence at 7.30 am in summer / 8 am in winter
Today claims our hardcore primal best mountain hikers’ self as today’s vertical ascent claims that capacity of our body and mind. Yes, please prepare your lungs, knees, glutes and ankle for better success. Quick tips from us, the alpine geeks will be; believe in your dreams, climb stairs, do push ups regularly, eat healthy, be mindful towards nature and your fellow human being.
Right at the beginning of snowfall till the rains, Munial Thood trek has a deep beckoning for the lovers of mountains.
The mesmerizing track winding the dense jungle of Oak, Rhododendron, Khorshu and Bhojpatra can truly stimulate your nature hungry soul. Even when one travels alone, they are accompanied seamlessly by thousands of different species of plants, insects and birds… fresh footprints of wild animals or a quick rendezvous with one, is totally possible but we are always safe with our alpine trek aficionados. These incredible trek guides can smell an animal from afar and can detect the exact time of their passing just by seeing their footprint. They know that animals are to be kept isolated when they move with their babies.
At times Munial Thood summit looks elusive as the route to the summit keeps stretching back each time we reach the last leg of ascent. Here to make you aware that for a Himalayan villager all summits are just 3 kilometers away from wherever you reach so please don’t play poker with those villagers while on your way up!
After a 70 degree steep ascent for a good one kilometer, finally our team reaches Kokina Khal campsite. A magical golden skyline welcomes us to become cozy and resting while clicking our significant others or that ultimate selfie keeping the massif of Trishuli and Nandaghunti in that picturesque photo frame. At that divine moment of setting sun, our humble trek manager Dheerubhai brings a tray full of fritters with Pahadi Bhangdana ke chatni and announces that tonight we all will sleep early for our 5 am summit tomorrow. One curious soul within us en-ropes him with why the name of this place is Kukina Khal?! Dheerubhai invites all of us to the campfire with the rest of the team. Slowly unfolding the story that this place has been the drinking water pond for centuries for animals and travelers. A deep chill flows through our spine… Dheeruji confirms that this fireplace will separate us from all the creatures so nothing to worry. Let us feast over Mandua ke roti and Kaafuli under a starry starry sky.
DAY 5
1 km. Up-TREK from Kokina Khal to MUNIAL THOOD SUMMIT
Trek time 1.5 hrs.
Munial Thood Summit is situated at 3657 metres.
Down- Trek of 13 kms. to Wan Village
Trek time 5 hrs.
Today is a special Summit Day! Winters can be very challenging to get up and get going at 5 am but summer is just fine to have that million dollar sun rising in-front of your mortal eyes right from behind those waves of snow-capped crowns of mountains.
Gaiters and crampons must be worn in the snow while trekking up or down in the winters. Good quality Waterproof shoes are indispensable for each and every trekker (Keep Note). Also to remember that, on no occasion trekkers move faster than their body permits as this may result in severe consequences in the blood circulation system of their body as altitude changes drastically.
With the able guidance of Alpine Trek leaders the team reaches the Muniual Thood Summit right on the very auspicious moment of sunrise. A sudden smell of Rhododendron flower cocktailed with morning mist and the colors of paradise takes away our senses to the flight of lightness. “ Yes! That’s all one needs to feel contained “- is the perfect caption for that perfect moment witnessed.
We cried our heart out just like a child who wants to be at that summit for long long days and nights forever!
Reality check! Knock Knock! Call for breakfast!
A group of Animal herders came to see the trekkers with buffalo milk and mattha. Soft tune of their flute has played the primitive trick to our amorous heart just like the herd of animals’.
Now it is time for all of us to go back to Wan village to have that much deserved village experience. Tonight is the celebration with a campfire to acknowledge the effort of everyone and the wonders of nature around. We stay back the night at a traditional village home-stay where we eat local delicacies with the family.
DAY 6
RETURN JOUNEY by road from WAN VILLAGE to LOHAJUNG BASE CAMP to RISHIKESH /DEHRADUN / KATHGUDAM
JOURNEY TIME7 to 10 Hrs.
You can drive to Rishikesh in your own vehicle.
DIY Overlanding Camping at Rishikesh Site
DAY 7
Return journey back home from Rishikesh
ITINERARY BRIEFING
Day 1: Reaching Rishikesh
❖ Reach Rishikesh DIY Overlanding Camping site by 4 pm before dusk
Day 2: Dehradun / Rishikesh / Kathgudam To Lohajung Base Camp via Tharali
Pick- up Point: ISBT, Dehradun / Nataraj Chowk, Rishikesh / Kathgudam Railway Station
Departure: 7 AM.
❖ Altitude: 2300 mtrs.
❖ Distance: 216 kms. – 292 kms.
❖ Travel time: 7 – 8 hrs.
❖ Dinner: Lohajung Base Camp
❖ Night Halt: Lohajung Base Camp
❖ People with own vehicle start from Rishikesh at 7 am for Lohajung
❖ DIY Overlanding Camping at Lohajung Campsite
Day 3: Lohajung Base Camp to Shonali Dhar via Wan Village
❖ Altitude: 2743mtrs.
❖ Drive by road : 13 kms.
❖ Trek distance: 7 kms.
❖ Trek time : 5 hrs.
❖ Breakfast: Lohajung Base Camp
❖ Lunch: Travel Pack
❖ Dinner: Shonali Dhar Campsite
❖ Night Halt: Shonali Dhar Campsite
Day 4: Shonali Dhar Campsite To Kukina Khal Campsite
❖ Altitude: 3048 mtrs.
❖ Trek distance: 6 kms.
❖ Trek time : 4 – 5 hrs.
❖ Breakfast: Shonali Dhar Campsite
❖ Lunch: Kukina Khal Campsite
❖ Dinner: Kukina Khal Campsite
❖ Night Halt: Kukina Khal Campsite
Day 5: Kukina Khal Campsite To Munial Thood Summit To Wan Village
❖ Altitude: 3657 mtrs
❖ Trek distance: 14 kms.
❖ Up-Trek time : 1.5 hrs.
❖ Down -Trek time : 5 hrs.
❖ Breakfast: Kukina Khal
❖ Lunch: Travel Pack
❖ Dinner: Wan village Home Stay / Lodge
❖ Night Halt: Wan village Home Stay / Lodge
Day 6: Wan Village To Rishikesh / Dehradun / Kathgudam via Tharali via Lohajung Base Camp
❖ Altitude: 2300 mtrs. To 372 mtrs.
❖ Breakfast: Lohajung Base Camp
❖ Distance: 216 kms. – 292 kms.
❖ Travel time: 7- 8 hrs
❖ Reaching Point: Nataraj Chowk, Rishikesh / ISBT, Dehradun / Kathgudam Railway Station
❖ Drive back in your own vehicle to Rishikesh
❖ DIY Overlanding Camping at Rishikesh camping site
Day 7: Drive back home in your own vehicle
❖ 10 am start from Rishikesh
BOOK THE TREK
Overlanding & Trekking Package Cost Rs. 11,000 + GST
***DISCLAIMER
Your participation in this implies that you clearly understand and agree to any unforeseen risks of injury or exhaustion, caused by your fitness level and the nature of the outdoor environment, with no liability for personal damages to organizers.
Please ensure you have at least 1- or 2-days buffer in hand in case of unpredictable weather. In case, if you complete the trek route before the stipulated time then you have a choice of staying back in the village or return back.
Features
Location
Similar Listings
Only guests who have booked can leave a review.
Added By Sahana Bhattacharya
