Fatchu Kandi Pass, perched at an altitude of approximately 4,900 meters (16,076 feet), is a hidden trekking route in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, offering a remote and thrilling crossover from the Tons Valley (Sankri side) to the Yamuna Valley (Hanuman Chatti side).
This lesser-known Himalayan pass is rarely explored, making it a dream for seasoned trekkers who wish to venture into pristine alpine environments, cross moraines and glaciers, and experience complete wilderness without human interference.
If you’re looking for raw adventure, untouched trails, and true high-altitude wilderness, Fatchu Kandi is for you. The trail winds through deep pine and deodar forests, alpine bugyals, glacial streams, and eventually leads you to a rugged glacier zone with panoramic views of Bandarpunch, Kalanag, Swargarohini, and more.
It’s ideal for trekkers who have already done moderate treks like Bali Pass, Kedarkantha, or Har Ki Dun and now seek an offbeat Himalayan experience with a sense of deep exploration.
Region: Uttarkashi District, Garhwal Himalayas
Altitude: ~4,900 meters (16,076 feet)
Trail Start: Sankri → Osla → Devsu Bugyal → Ruinsara Valley
Trail End: Yamunotri Valley (Hanuman Chatti or Janki Chatti)
National Park: Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary
Difficult / Expedition Level
Requires prior high-altitude trekking experience
Demands physical endurance and mental preparedness
Glacier crossings, boulder zones, and scree slopes
Trekking with an experienced guide is mandatory
The ideal trekking windows for Fatchu Kandi Pass are:
Pre-monsoon (Late May to Mid-June) – Less snow, blooming high-altitude flora
Post-monsoon (Mid-September to Mid-October) – Crystal-clear skies, excellent visibility, and stable weather
Avoid monsoon season (July–early September) due to landslides and slippery trails. Winter (late October to May) brings heavy snow, making the pass inaccessible without alpine gear.
Rare alpine crossover linking the Tons and Yamuna Valleys
Cross high ridgelines, snowfields, and glacial moraines
Panoramic views of Swargarohini, Black Peak (Kalanag), Bandarpunch, and Yamunotri peaks
Wild and isolated route—perfect for deep trekkers and nature lovers
Ideal for creating custom expedition-style itineraries
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (2,000m)
Day 2: Trek to Osla (2,600m)
Day 3: Trek to Devsu Bugyal → Ruinsara Valley
Day 4: Acclimatization at Ruinsara or explore Ruinsara Tal
Day 5: Trek to Glacier Base Camp
Day 6: Cross Fatchu Kandi Pass (~4,900m), descend to Yamunotri side base
Day 7: Trek down to Hanuman Chatti
Day 8: Drive to Dehradun
Note: Proper planning and support are essential. Route may require rope safety and glacier navigation.
