Milam Glacier Trek
Milam Glacier, one of the largest in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India, is a breathtaking destination known for its natural beauty, spiritual significance, and adventure opportunities. Situated at an altitude of around 3,800 meters, it is surrounded by towering peaks like Trishuli, Hardeol, and Rishi Pahar. The glacier is a vast and ever-changing expanse of ice, offering mesmerizing views of the Himalayas.
The area around Milam Glacier is rich in biodiversity, home to rare wildlife such as musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan black bears. It also holds deep spiritual significance, as locals believe it to be the abode of the mountain deity Nanda Devi, attracting pilgrims seeking blessings.
The trek to Milam Glacier is both challenging and rewarding, passing through remote villages, dense forests, and high-altitude passes. It provides a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts, combining the grandeur of the mountains with the serenity of nature. For trekkers and nature lovers, Milam Glacier is an unmissable gem in the Indian Himalayas.
Trek Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the largest glacier of Kumaon, Milam Glacier, trekking through the stunning landscapes of Himalayan villages. Stay overnight in cozy tents and explore the breathtaking glacier up close, with panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks.
Quick Facts
- Duration: 9D/8N
- Maximum Altitude: 13,999 ft
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
- Distance: 100 km
- Best Time: March-June & Sept-Dec
- Start/End Point: Munsiyari/Kathgodam/Delhi
Highlights
- Explore secret settlements nestled in Kumaon Himalaya
- Stay in tents with stunning mountain views
- Trek to the terminus of the Milam Glacier
- Learn about local myths and culture
- Camp at Nanda Devi East Base Camp
- Guides, local cuisine, and unforgettable experiences await
How to Reach Munsiyari
Munsiyari is well-connected to tourist destinations in Uttarakhand and can be reached by air, road, and rail.
- Road
Munsiyari is connected by motorable roads to all the major towns and cities.
- Train
The nearest railhead is Tanakpur, about 286 km away.
- Air
The nearest airport is at Pithoragarh, but it is not a regular airport. Helicopter services are also available from Haldwani, and there is a helipad in Munsiyari.
Itinerary
DAY-1: Munsiyari - Lilam (1850 m/6068 ft) (14 kms/ 5-6 hrs)
After breakfast in the guesthouse, prepare for your first trekking episode in the region!
A fairly easy walk for about 5-6hrs in your trek from Munsiyari to Lilam via Darkot.
From Darkot, the trek will descend downhill to Gori Ganga until Jimighat.
From the riverside, you will trek back to Lilam. Overnight stay at camps in Lilam.
DAY-2: Lilam – Bugdiar (2500 mts/8200 ft) (12 kms/5-6 hrs)
Getting up in the morning, you will trek uphill to Bugdiar.
After crossing a series of lush green forest, lined with trees, you will reach Bugdiar.
Flocks of sheep and goats are a common sight at the meadows of Bugdiar, which will be our campsite for the night stay.
Dinner will be served in the tent.
DAY-3: Bugdiar– Martoli (3430 mts/11250 ft) (14 kms/5-6 hrs)
Passing through the series of narrow gorges today, you will trek to Martoli via Railkot, which is located at the edge of Lwan Gad Valley. Overnight stay in the tent in village Martoli.
DAY-4: Martoli – Milam (3450 m/11316 ft) (11kms/5-6 hrs)
With today’s trek, you will reach the most important landmark of the trek, Milam village. On the sixth day, you will firstly cross the bridges over Lwan Gad and Gori Ganga to reach Burphu Village (3350 M). Your next stopover point will be Milam village, which will also be your stopover for camping.
DAY-5: Milam – Milam Glacier – Milam (6 kms /3-4 hrs)
Set forth after an early breakfast on a trail to Milam Glacier, from where you can enjoy the panoramic view of magnificent peaks like Rishi Parvat (6692 M), Hardeol (7151 M) and Tirsuli (7074 M). Later trek back to Milam for dinner and overnight stay.
DAY-6: Milam - Railkot (3250 M/10725)
Trek downhill for 17 km till Railkot. Overnight stay in the tent.
DAY-7: Railkot – Bugdiar
You will trek 12 km downhill even today; highlights of the trail are the narrow gorge of Nahar Devi. Overnight stay in the tent.
DAY-8: Bugdiar – Lilam
Its 12 km of downhill all the way. Reach campsite by the afternoon and chill out. Overnight in tents.
DAY-9: Lilam – Munsiyari
Trek to the road head and head back to Munsiyari for a well deserved hot water bath. Overnight in rest house
Inclusions
- Accommodation: Tents or Tourist lodges on sharing basis.
- Meals: All Meals Included during the trek
- Trekking Equipments: Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
- Permits: All permits and fees (wherever applicable).
- Guide: Local and experienced trekking guides & supporting staff.
- Health & Safety: First aid kit, oxygen cylinders, oximeter, etc.
- Trek Insurance (Optional): This depends on your package, kindly confirm while booking.