Black Peak

The Mighty Kalanag of Uttarakhand

Discover the Highest Peak of Bandarpunch Range in the Garhwal Himalayas

Black Peak, locally known as Kalanag (6,387 meters), is the highest summit in the Bandarpunch massif of the Garhwal Himalayas, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. A revered mountain for both seasoned trekkers and mountaineers, Kalanag is named after its distinct serpent-like black summit, resembling the hood of a king cobra.

Why Visit Black Peak?

Black Peak offers a perfect blend of thrill, technical challenge, and pristine Himalayan beauty. It is one of the few 6,000+ meter peaks in India that is accessible for experienced trekkers and aspiring mountaineers. Whether you’re a passionate climber or a lover of untouched alpine scenery, the journey to Black Peak is unforgettable.

Location

  • Region: Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, Sankri Range

  • District: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

  • Altitude: 6,387 meters (20,955 feet)

  • Nearest Town: Sankri (Base Village)

Difficulty Level

Challenging – Requires:

  • High-altitude trekking experience

  • Good physical and mental endurance

  • Basic mountaineering knowledge (ice axe, crampons, ropework)

  • Summit climb involves technical sections and steep ascents

Best Time to Attempt

The ideal climbing windows are:

  • May to early June

  • Mid-September to October

These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and safe snow conditions for a successful summit.

Expedition Highlights

  • Trek through dense pine and oak forests, alpine meadows, glacial basins, and dramatic ridgelines

  • Witness the Rupin and Supin valleys, Har Ki Dun, and the Swargarohini massif

  • Camp at scenic sites like Seema, Rujan Kharak, and Base Camp

  • Cross challenging terrains including crevassed glaciers, moraine zones, and snowfields

  • Ideal preparation peak before climbing higher Himalayan summits

Itinerary Overview (15-18 Days)

  1. Day 1: Arrival in Dehradun and drive to Sankri (approx. 8–9 hrs)

  2. Day 2: Acclimatization and trek briefing

  3. Day 3–6: Trek through Taluka – Seema – Rujan Kharak – Base Camp

  4. Day 7–10: Load ferry, acclimatization hikes, summit push preparation

  5. Day 11–13: Summit attempt and return to Base Camp

  6. Day 14–16: Trek back to Sankri and drive to Dehradun

(Note: Schedule may vary based on weather and group fitness)