Milam Glacier Trek – A Journey to the Largest Glacier in Kumaon
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About the Tour
Embark on the breathtaking Milam Glacier Trek, a high-altitude adventure through the mesmerizing Johar Valley in Uttarakhand. Situated at an elevation of 3,438 meters (11,280 feet), Milam Glacier is the largest glacier in the Kumaon region and offers stunning views of Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Hardeol peaks. This trek follows an ancient Indo-Tibetan trade route, taking you through charming villages, alpine meadows, and dense forests, making it a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure.
Key Highlights
- Witness the largest glacier in Kumaon with panoramic views of Nanda Devi and Trishul
- Trek through the picturesque Johar Valley, home to ancient Himalayan culture
- Experience the changing landscapes from dense forests to high-altitude meadows
- Visit the remote villages of Martoli, Lilam, and Rilkot, offering unique cultural insights
- Walk along the scenic Gori Ganga River with stunning waterfalls and gorges
Tour Description
The Milam Glacier Trek starts from Munsiyari and follows the Gori Ganga River deep into the Johar Valley. As you ascend, the landscapes shift from dense pine forests to vast alpine meadows and glacial moraine. This is a moderate to challenging trek requiring good endurance and acclimatization.
Challenges
- Altitude Gain: Trekking up to 11,280 feet requires proper acclimatization
- Steep Ascents & Long Distances: Certain sections require endurance and stamina
- Weather Variations: Cold temperatures and unpredictable weather conditions
Facilities
- Experienced trek leaders and local guides
- Accommodation in tents and guesthouses
- Nutritious meals and hot beverages
- First aid and oxygen support for emergencies
Tour Amenities
- Well-equipped campsites with proper sanitation
- Group campfire and social gatherings
- Guided village walks for cultural immersion
Who Can Participate?
- Trekkers with moderate to high fitness levels
- Adventurers with prior high-altitude trekking experience preferred
- Suitable for individuals above 12 years of age
How to Reach
- Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (280 km from Munsiyari)
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (250 km from Munsiyari)
- Road Connectivity: Well-connected by road from Kathgodam, Haldwani, and Almora
Pick-up and Drop-off Info
Pick-up is from Kathgodam Railway Station, followed by a drive to Munsiyari. Drop-off is at Kathgodam at the end of the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Is prior trekking experience required?
A: Prior trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory. - Q: What will the weather be like?
A: Summer temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, while nights can drop below freezing. - Q: What permits are required?
A: Inner line permits and forest department permits are required and will be arranged by our team.
Key Points
- Best Time to Travel: May-June, September-October
- Temperature: 5°C to 15°C (day), -2°C to -5°C (night)
- Altitude: 3,438 meters (11,280 feet)
- Longitude: 81.4512°E
- Latitude: 30.1135°N
Included/Exclude
Inclusions in the Tour Package
- Accommodation: Camps (Sharing Camp for two people), Home Stay.
- Guides & Support Staff: Qualified & experienced Trek Leader, Guide, and Support staff to assist trekkers.
- Sleeping Gear: Sleeping Bags.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Packed Lunch, and Dinner – only vegetarian).
- Permits & Fees: Trekking Permits and Forest Fees.
- Trekking Equipment: Tent, Mattress, Sleeping Bag, Dining & Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Cooking Utensils, and Crampons (if required).
- Medical Assistance: First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder.
- Guide & Support Staff Expenses: Guide Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Potters: Potters will carry only trekking equipment.
- Potter's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Kitchen Staff: Included for cooking and meal preparation.
- Kitchen Staff Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Cook: Responsible for preparing meals.
- Cook's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Transportation: As per the trek itinerary.
Exclusions in the Tour Package
- Any other facilities that are not mentioned in the inclusions.
- Potters for carrying your personal luggage.
- Extra meals like lunch during the journey by cab and stay at hotels (lunch is only provided during the trek).
- Personal expenses such as Water Bottles, Laundry, Phone Calls, etc.
- Insurance.
- Gaiters.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under "Inclusions."
Tour Amenities
Certified Trek Leader
Hassle-Free Permits
Warm Meals, Always
Itinerary
Overview
Drive Distance: 300 km (approx. 8-9 hours)
Altitude: 2,290 meters / 7,512 feet at Munsiyari
Detailed Plan
- Arrive at Kathgodam Railway Station in the morning.
- Meet the tour guide and drive through picturesque landscapes via Almora to reach Munsiyari.
- Check into a hotel for an overnight stay.
Overview
Trek Distance: 12 km (approx. 6-7 hours)
Altitude: 1,850 meters / 6,068 feet at Lilam
Detailed Plan
- Begin the trek from Munsiyari, passing through the village of Darkot.
- Descend to the Gori Ganga River at Jimighat.
- Continue the trek to Lilam village.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 15 km (approx. 6 hours)
Altitude: 2,500 meters / 8,202 feet at Bugdiyar
Detailed Plan
- Trek through mixed forests of conifer and bamboo.
- Cross waterfalls and snow bridges.
- Arrive at Bugdiyar for an overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 13 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Altitude: 3,100 meters / 10,170 feet at Rilkot
Detailed Plan
- Follow the trail alongside the Gori Ganga River through narrow gorges.
- Steady climb up to Rilkot.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 12 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Altitude: 3,300 meters / 10,827 feet at Ghanghar
Detailed Plan
- Ascend to the village of Martoli, offering views of Nanda Devi East.
- Continue to Ghanghar village.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 12 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Altitude: 3,438 meters / 11,280 feet at Milam Village
Detailed Plan
- Trek through alpine meadows and rugged terrains.
- Arrive at Milam Village, the last settlement before the glacier.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 8 km (approx. 4-5 hours)
Altitude: 3,870 meters / 12,697 feet at Milam Glacier
Detailed Plan
- Early morning trek to Milam Glacier.
- Explore the glacier and surrounding peaks.
- Return to Milam Village for an overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 25 km (approx. 7-8 hours)
Detailed Plan
- Retrace steps back through Rilkot to Bugdiyar.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Trek Distance: 15 km (approx. 6 hours)
Drive Distance: 12 km (approx. 1 hour)
Detailed Plan
- Descend from Bugdiyar to Lilam through scenic forest trails.
- Reach Lilam and board a vehicle for the drive back to Munsiyari.
- Check into a hotel and rest.
Overview
Drive Distance: 300 km (approx. 8-9 hours)
Detailed Plan
- Early morning departure from Munsiyari.
- Drive through the beautiful landscapes of Kumaon.
- Arrive at Kathgodam by evening.
- End of the Milam Glacier Trek.
Important Notes
- Best Time to Visit: The trek is best undertaken between May to June and September to October.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging – recommended for trekkers with prior experience in high-altitude trekking.
- Weather Conditions: Temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C during the day and can drop to -5°C at night in higher camps.
- Altitude Considerations: Gradual acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness.
- Permits and Documentation: Indian trekkers need an Inner Line Permit, and foreign trekkers require special permission.
- Eco-Friendly Trekking: Follow Leave No Trace principles – do not litter and respect local customs.
- Essential Gear: Good trekking shoes, warm clothing, waterproof gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
- Network Connectivity: Mobile network coverage is available in Munsiyari but not beyond Lilam.
