Dhumdhar Kandi Pass is one of the most challenging and remote high-altitude treks in the Indian Himalayas, situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Towering at an elevation of 5,490 meters (18,011 feet), this glaciated pass links the Bhagirathi Valley (near Gangotri) with the Yamunotri Valley (via Ruinsara and Har Ki Dun). It is steeped in mythology and history, once used by ancient traders and revered sadhus seeking spiritual sanctuaries in the Himalayas.
The trek is for serious trekkers and mountain lovers seeking a technical, remote, and awe-inspiring journey through towering peaks, massive glaciers, and untouched alpine wilderness.
Dhumdhar Kandi isn’t just a trek—it’s an expedition. Known for its technical glacier crossing, knife-edge ridges, and remote terrain, this route is rarely attempted, making it a dream for seasoned adventurers.
From the Gangotri National Park’s sacred forests to the ice-cold crevasses of the Dhumdhar glacier, the trail offers uninterrupted views of Bandarpunch (6,316 m), Swargarohini, Kalanag, and Yamunotri peaks.
Region: Uttarkashi District, Garhwal Himalayas
Altitude: 5,490 meters (18,011 feet)
Base Point: Gangotri or Jhala (for Har Ki Dun connection)
Nearest Towns: Uttarkashi, Gangotri, Sankri
Difficult to Technical – This trek is not for beginners. Recommended for:
Highly experienced trekkers with exposure to high-altitude glacier navigation
Groups led by certified mountain guides with technical gear
Requires rope skills, snow gear, crampons, and good physical endurance
The ideal season for Dhumdhar Kandi Pass is:
Mid-May to June: Snow starts receding; pass becomes navigable with gear
September to Early October: Post-monsoon window with clear views and solid ice bridges
Avoid July–August (monsoon) due to unpredictable weather and glacier melting, and November–April, when snow and blizzards make the route impassable.
Cross a historical glacier pass connecting Bhagirathi and Yamunotri valleys
Traverse through Gangotri National Park and Govind Pashu Vihar Sanctuary
See Gangotri Glacier, Dhumdhar Glacier, Kalanag Glacier, and Swargarohini group up close
Camp in surreal landscapes: pine forests, glacial valleys, snowfields, and moraine deserts
A real expedition-style journey with challenging terrain and spiritual energy
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Uttarkashi (~7 hrs)
Day 2: Drive to Gangotri or Jhala, trek to camp
Day 3–4: Trek through Kyarakoti, gain altitude
Day 5: Acclimatization at Kyarakoti Glacier Base
Day 6: Trek to Dhumdhar Kandi Base Camp
Day 7: Cross Dhumdhar Kandi Pass – glacier ropework involved
Day 8–10: Descend into Ruinsara Tal and onward to Har Ki Dun
Day 11–12: Trek to Sankri and drive to Dehradun
Note: Can be done in reverse from Har Ki Dun to Gangotri with proper permits.
