Ranthan Kharak – A Trekker’s Delight in Kumaon

While most popular treks in Uttarakhand are found in the Garhwal region, the Kumaon region holds equally stunning beauty that remains quite unexplored. The Ranthan Kharak Trek is one such offbeat adventure that will leave you mesmerized with its pleasant landscapes. This moderate-grade trek takes you through lush Oak and Rhododendron forests, charming meadows, and scenic clearings, making it a perfect choice for you, if you want to experience the lesser known beauty of the Himalayas. The trek starts and ends at the picturesque village of Gogina, winding through dense forests that burst into vibrant red and pink hues in the spring. As you walk through these serene woodlands, you’ll come across beautiful clearings, known as ‘Kharaks,’ where the forests open up to reveal panoramic views of snow-covered peaks which is truly a magical experience.

You will cross a beautiful bridge, with the Ramganga river flowing peacefully below. As you move ahead, you’ll walk through forest trails filled with ancient trees like Silver Oak, Golden Oak, Rhododendrons, Cedar, and Maple. One of the best and unique parts of this trek is the long ridge climb with amazing views of the Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Nanda Devi and Panchachuli. And once you reach the top, the view is simply unforgettable! Covering about 37 km, this trek takes around 7 days to complete, giving you plenty of time to soak in the untouched beauty of the region. Whether you’re trekking through dense forests, walking across open meadows, or admiring the towering mountains, the Ranthan Kharak trek is packed with stunning scenery at every step.

Major Attractions of the Ranthan Kharak Trek

• Ridge Walks: One of the most exciting parts of the Ranthan Kharak trek is the ridge walk, especially during the final climb. Though it’s a steep ascent, the beautiful views make it all worthwhile. It’s a dream spot for photography, with vast mountains in the background and a dramatic ridge under your feet.
• Rhododendron Blooms: If you trek in spring or early summer, you’ll be greeted by vibrant Rhododendron flowers. This trail is home to some of the oldest Rhododendron trees, which bloom longer due to the high altitude. The bright red flowers beautifully color the trails, making the trek appear even more magical.
• Ranthan Top: The highest point of the trek, Ranthan Top, offers you spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayas. When you stand here, you can spot Nanda Devi, Nanda Devi east also known as Sunanda Devi, Trishul, Mrigthuni, Nanda Kot, and the Panchachuli range, a truly breathtaking sight!
• Cultural Immersion: Unlike most popular Uttarakhand treks where you experience Garhwali culture, the Ranthan Kharak trek introduces you to the Kumaoni culture. Passing through the charming villages of Gogina and Namik, you’ll get a glimpse of traditional village life and have the chance to interact with the locals and know about their living.
• Kharak (Meadow Clearings): In the local language, “Kharak” means clearings, and this trek is full of them! These peaceful open spaces provide a perfect place to rest and soak in the beauty of nature. In spring, the meadows turn lush green with wildflowers, while post-monsoon, they transform into golden-brown hues of autumn.
• Balchan Kund: Balchan Kund, located near the Bajimanian Kharak campsite, is a peaceful and scenic spot. In the evening, you can take a short walk to the Kund, where the soothing sounds of chirping birds fill the air, and the golden rays of the setting sun peek through the trees. If you’re lucky, you might spot Monals and yellow martens in their natural habitat. The locals hold this lake in high regard, considering it sacred and visiting it for worship.

What can you expect during the Ranthan Kharak trek ?

During the Ranthan Kharak trek, you can expect amazing landscapes, scenic villages, mesmerizing campsites and a memorable experience. The trek has stunning views of vast mountain peaks, lush green meadows, and vibrant wildflowers that make every moment feel like a picture-perfect frame. As you move through the trails, you will come across beautiful spots that make you want to pause and soak in the beauty for longer. Campsites like Bajimanian Kharak are truly spectacular, with vast grasslands surrounded by snow-covered peaks, offering a peaceful and surreal experience.

Apart from the mountain views, the trek takes you through some of Kumaon’s densest forests, providing a great opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of the region. The forests are home to a variety of trees, including Himalayan birch, deodar, oak, pine, and maple, while rhododendrons bloom in March, April, and May, adding a splash of color to the landscape. You may also spot fascinating wildlife such as yellow-throated martens, barking deer, Himalayan pikas, the Himalayan monal (Uttarakhand’s state bird), and musk deer. While the trek offers incredible beauty and adventure, it also takes you to high altitudes, which means there is a risk of high-altitude mountain sickness (AMS). To stay safe, it is important to stay hydrated, take time to acclimatise, keep your energy levels up, and always follow the guidance of your trek leaders.

What is the Best Time to Do Ranthan Kharak Trek ?

The best time to do Ranthan Kharak trek is during summer and autumn, specifically from April to June and September to November. During these months the weather and beauty aligns perfectly, giving you the best experience of trekking in the Kumaon region. In spring and summer, the trail comes alive with blooming flowers and lush green meadows, while autumn brings stunning golden hues, transforming the landscape into a masterpiece. Clear skies during these months provide spectacular views of the mighty Himalayan peaks. Whether you prefer the fresh vibrance of spring or the rich autumn colors, you can choose the best time based on what you want to experience!

So, If you’re looking to experience the beauty of trekking in the Kumaon region, Ranthan Kharak is a must-visit! With its stunning landscapes and serene trails, it’s truly one of the best treks in Uttarakhand. Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem!