Jaundhar Glacier

Explore the Icy Realm of Swargarohini

Trek to a Majestic Himalayan Glacier from Har Ki Dun Valley

Jaundhar Glacier is one of the most awe-inspiring high-altitude glaciers in the Garhwal Himalayas, located near the Har Ki Dun valley in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. It lies close to the base of the legendary Swargarohini peaks, and the route to the glacier is an adventurous extension to the popular Har Ki Dun trek.

Remote, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful, Jaundhar Glacier is a dream for experienced trekkers, photographers, and those looking to go beyond the usual routes.

Why Visit Jaundhar Glacier?

Unlike crowded trekking spots, the Jaundhar Glacier trail is peaceful, challenging, and rewarding. Trekkers are treated to ever-changing landscapes, from meadows and moraine fields to snow-covered glacial basins. The highlight is the close-up view of the Swargarohini massif and the glacier stretching into eternity.

This trek is perfect for those who want a raw Himalayan experience and wish to explore one of the most stunning glacier zones in Uttarakhand without climbing technical peaks.

Location

  • Region: Govind Pashu Vihar National Park

  • District: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

  • Altitude: ~4,300 meters (14,100 feet)

  • Base Village: Sankri

  • Approach: Via Har Ki Dun Valley

Difficulty Level

Moderate to Difficult – Recommended for:

  • Experienced trekkers with prior high-altitude exposure

  • Those who have completed treks like Har Ki Dun or Ruinsara Tal

  • Physically fit individuals who can handle moraine and glacier terrain

  • No technical gear required but stamina and acclimatization are essential

Best Time to Attempt

The best seasons to trek to Jaundhar Glacier are:

  • May to June: Pleasant weather, receding snow, and clear glacier views

  • Mid-September to October: Crisp post-monsoon air, golden meadows, and sharp visibility

Avoid July to early September due to heavy monsoon rains and risk of landslides. Winter (Nov–March) is not suitable without technical snow trekking experience.

Trek Highlights

  • Extension of the classic Har Ki Dun trek

  • Close encounters with Swargarohini I–IV and views of Black Peak (Kalanag)

  • Dramatic terrain transitions from pine forests to alpine meadows to icy glacial zones

  • Unique insight into Himalayan glaciology, geology, and high-altitude ecology

  • Less crowded route, ideal for solitude and photography

Itinerary Overview (7–9 Days)

  1. Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (~200 km / 8–9 hrs)

  2. Day 2: Sankri to Taluka drive, then trek to Seema (~12 km)

  3. Day 3: Trek from Seema to Har Ki Dun (~11 km)

  4. Day 4: Trek to Jaundhar Glacier viewpoint and return to Har Ki Dun (~10–12 km round trip)

  5. Day 5–6: Return trek via Seema to Taluka

  6. Day 7: Drive back to Dehradun

(Option to camp near glacier zone if conditions permit)