Satopanth Trek

Tour Overview

Satopanth trek is an amazing trek which starts from Badrinath and ends at Haridwar. Satopant trek also known to many as Satopanth Yatra is also known as Satopanth Swargarohini yatra;It covers a lot of places like Nar Parbat, Narayan Parvat, Neelkanth Peak, Laxmivan, Chakrateerth, Satopanth Lake, Chaukhamba, Balakun, Parvati Peak, Haridwar, etc. On this trek, you come across the beautiful valleys laden with flowers, crystal clear tranquil water, alpine mountains, and a scenic view. The difficulty level of Satopanth Lake trek is moderate. If you love being adventurous, there are various activities for you like climbing, rappelling, jumaring, etc. So pack your rucksack and go ahead for this thrilling Satopanth trek. The best time to go for this trek is during summers, from June to October

Tour Highlights

Satopanth Lake Trek

Satopanth Glacier

Views of Swargarohini Peak

Views of Chowkhamba & Neelkanth Peaks

About This Tour

Satopanth Trek

Satopanth trek is an amazing trek which starts from Badrinath. This yatra also consider as yatra to Swarg - Heaven.

Destinations Covered

Badrinath Haridwar

Best Time

N/A

Ideal For

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Day-by-Day Itinerary

Satopanth trek starts from the holy Hindu temple town of Badrinath. To reach Badrinath, you may choose to reach by either road or chartered helicopter from Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand state of India. If you are coming by air, Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun is the closest domestic airport located at a distance of 317 km from Badrinath. If you are coming by train, Dehradun junction is the nearest railway station from were our representative can pick you for the trip. Coming by road from Delhi is another option. Once you have reached Dehradun, depending upon your budget and preference, we can arrange your travel to Badrinath either by road or by Chartered helicopter. Badrinath Helicopter Serviceis available from Sahastradhara Helipad in Dehradun. Each helicopter can take upto 6 travellers whose total body weight should not exceed 450 kg.It is a costly option, but saves a lot of time as the otherwise journey of about 4 days for Dehradun-Badrinath-Dehradun(at a leisurely pace) gets reduced to about 1 hour flying time each way from Dehradun to Badrinath and back. If you prefer to travel by road, we can provide you Luxury Innova cars, Toyota Hiace or Toyota Coaster minibuses depending upon the group size. If you travelling by road to Badrinath from Dehradun, you can start early morning and reach by late evening in about 10-11 hours.Alternatively, we can also arrange a night halt enroute at Rudraprayag, which is about 150 Km from Dehradun. Badrinath is situated at an elevation of 3133 m., right between Nar mountain range (5831 m.) and Narayan mountain range (5960 m.). You can trek on both the mountains along with Neelkanth Peak (6596 m.). Enjoy the view of the surreal silver horizon on the peak which is formed due to snow. Stay overnight at the hotel in Badrinath.

Satopanth Trek commences on the second day after reaching Badrinath. After breakfast, you would leave for Laxmivan which is 13 km. from Badrinath (takes about 6 hours). On Satopanth Tal trek, you are going to witness beautiful birch forests ofLaxmivan. Laxmivan is situated beside Vashudhara waterfalls. This inclined trek is going to give you the most amazing and beautiful view of Vasudhara River. The sound of gushing water hitting the rocks are something to remember. Our expert team lead by knowledgeable Satopanth trek guides and porters would be carrying all the neccesary gear such as sleeping bags, trekking tents, carabiners, ration, trekking mattresses, walking stiks etc. On the way, you may see Bhagirathi Khark Balakin Peak, Neelkanth Peak and Swargarohini Peaks on the Satopanth Trek. Laxmivan is a beautiful campsite with mesmerizing beauty. You may also notice Bhojpatra plant grown in various patches at Laxmivan. Another sight to behold is Alkapuri Glacier on the opposite side. After the hectic day, our team shall pitch tents at Laxmivan for the trekking group. Later, our team would serve simmering hot soup to you followed by freshly cooked dinner. Overnight stay shall be in a tent pitched by our guides and porters at Laxmivan.

Next morning, after a light breakfast served by our team, the trek would begin from Laxmivan towards Chakrateerth which is 8km. and roughly takes 7 hours to reach. You would have to climb up the hill and follow the trail beside the refreshing Sahasradhara waterfall. Sahasradhara means a thousand waterfalls, so you can imagine the thrill of trekking from Laxmivan to Chakrateerthtrek. You would further continue your Satopanth trek by hiking over the boulders. Here you would find a variety of alpine flowers. You would witness breathtaking views of the upper Satopanth glacier, along with sky touching Swaragrohini and Chaukhamba peaks. The trekking path goes by sloppy meadows and rock solid moraine. You would also see the glacial plateau of Alkapuri. Bhagirathi River emerges from the north of this plateau, while Alaknanda River flows from the south-east. After the adventurous day full of scenic views, the Satopanth trek group would stop over for rest. The trekkers would enjoy hot soup followed by dinner and overnight stay in the tents pitched by our team. Do you know the mythological story behind Laxmivan to Chakrateerth? This is a legendary place. It is believed that Goddess Laxmi and her husband Narayan use to meditate here. While meditating, Narayan kept his Sudarshan Chakra (which is a spinning, disk-like weapon) in the valley. Due to the heavy weight of this weapon, it is believed that the valley formed a round shaped meadow with beautiful lofty ranges all around.

After breakfast, you would begin the trek from Chakrateerth to Satopanth Lake. It is 5 km. patch. For this part of the Satopanth Tal Trek, there are two options - either to trek near Satopanth Lake or trek near Swargarohini steps which is at a distance of 2 km. Satopanth Lake is considered as a tough trek, but at the same time, it is considered as trekker’s paradise. This triangular glacial lake is located 14,300 feet high in the lap of Garhwal Himalayas. Here trekkers find eternal peace and relaxation looking at the ethereal ambiance of the lake and its crystal clear water. Lofty mountains ranges surround this place. You would be having an amazing experience of trekking and steep climbing on the treacherous moraine and glaciers. Here you would enjoy the magical sunrise and sunset in between giant snow cladded peaks. Talking about other option, Swargarohini attracts a large number of climbers. It is surrounded from all the sides by hanging glaciers, other peaks, and rock walls. While on this arduous trek in Uttarakhand, you would witness mesmerizing and mighty peaks of Chaukhamba (6854 m.), Balakun (6067 m.) and Parvati Peak. Dinner and overnight stay shall be in the tents pitched by our team. Do you know? Each corner of Satopanth Lake is named after divine Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.

You would start this beautiful day with a holy bath in the lake and followed by some prayers and worship. This day, after catching some glipmses of the beautiful scenic views, you would start on your return journey of the Satopanth Yatra trek. You would trek back to Laxmivan. It is roughly 13 km. of distance, which will take approximately 8 hours to reach. The patch from Satopanth Lake to Laxmivan is breath-taking and full of high altitude flowers, beautiful meadows. Once you reach Laxmivan, our team would serve you soup and meal after which you would retire in the tents.

On this day of your Satopanth Tal Trel, you would retrace your track back to Badrinath from Laxmivan. On reaching, you can spare some time and visit Badri Vishal Temple. You can also take bath in hot water sulphur spring at Tapta Kund. This is not only peaceful and relaxing but also considered very beneficial for fighting various skin ailments. After a long day, take rest at prebooked hotel at Badrinath.

After breakfast, you would drive back from Badrinath to Haridwar(or Rudrprayag depending upon the final tour itinerary). It takes a full a day of driving to reach Haridwar from Badrinath, as the total distance is approximately 325 km. On the entire route, you can find River Alaknanda till Rudraprayag where it meets River Mandakini coming from Kedarnath.From Rudraprayag, this route further goes to Devprayag where the river meets River Bhagirathi coming from Gangotri to form Ganga or Ganges. One can occasionally see rafters negotiating the rapids in the Ganges. The route is not only mesmerizing but it would also give you perfect adrenaline rush. The adventurous Satopanth trek ends here as we drop you to Haridwar or Dehradun Airport/Railway station for onward journey.

Travel Tips

Travel Tips For This Tour

Travel Tips For Satopanth Trek

Travel Tips For Satopanth Trek

The Satopanth Trek is deceptively difficult. Although it is only 40 kilometres long, the high altitude and unfriendly terrain make it a hazardous trek. Even in summer, the temperature can fall below zero during nighttime. It is advisable to carry adequate clothing and snow glasses to protect oneself from snow blindness.
First-time trekkers are urged to carry a trekking pole and buy hardy trekking shoes to protect your feet from the rugged terrain of the Satopanth Lake Trek and snakebites. Also, try to exercise regularly so that you are accustomed to the continuous walking and climbing that you have to do on this trek.
The best time to visit Satopanth Lake is from May to September. The winter months are very harsh and the lake remains frozen.
The trail from Badrinath to Satopanth Tal is rife with alpine vegetation and wildlife. Keep your eyes and ears open at all times so that you do not miss the wonderful and magnificent beauty that will surround you.
The Garhwal Himalayas are the home of the snow leopard, the musk deer, and the Himalayan Black Bear. Orchids are abundant. See if you can spot the elusive Lady Slipper Orchid that blooms only in the Garhwal Himalayas.
It is advisable to carry energy bars and similar snacks along with you because there are no shops on the Satopanth Lake Trek.
At Badrinath, try to take a dip in the sulphur hot spring at Taptakund. It is not only a religious experience but it also has many medicinal properties.
Treks like these help an individual to be one with nature, and consequently, one with God. Take in the magnificent sights of the snow-capped peaks and the lush green surroundings and the beautiful rivers of Alokananda and Bhagirathi.
Drink only boiled water. Carry a well-equipped first-aid kit with you at all times.

Check list for Satopanth Trek

Backpack & Rain cover/Rain coat
Walking/Trekking Stick
Head Torch
Water bottle/Hydration Pack
Personal Medical Kit
Sun cap/Woolen cap/Balaclava
Neck gaiter
Sunglasses
Waterproof Gloves/Woolen or Fleece Gloves
Trekking Shoes
Thermal Inners
Fleece Jacket
Wind & Waterproof Jacket
Toiletries such as Sun Screen, Moisturiser, Lip Balm, Toilet Papers and wipes, hand sanitiser, anti-bacterial powder, tooth brush and toothpaste, quick dry towels.

Frequently Asked Questions

To undertake the Satopanth Trek, trekkers need to obtain a permit from the Uttarakhand Forest Department. This is essential for trekking in protected areas. It is advisable to arrange this permit in advance, ideally through a registered trekking agency, to ensure a smooth experience.

The ideal time for the Satopanth Trek is from May to September. During these months, the weather is relatively mild, and the trails are accessible. Winter months can be extremely harsh, with the lake being frozen and heavy snowfall making trekking dangerous.

Pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, a waterproof jacket, and snow glasses to protect against snow blindness. Sturdy trekking shoes, a trekking pole, and a first-aid kit are also essential. Don't forget to carry enough water and high-energy snacks for the trek.

While the Satopanth Trek is of moderate difficulty, it is recommended for those with some trekking experience due to its high altitude and rugged terrain. Beginners should prepare physically and consider joining a guided group for safety and support.

Satopanth Lake is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,402 meters (14,440 feet). This high altitude can lead to altitude sickness, so acclimatization is crucial. It's advisable to ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Safety concerns on the Satopanth Trek include altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and rugged terrain. Trekkers should be cautious of slippery paths and be prepared for sudden weather changes. It's advisable to trek with a guide and inform someone about your itinerary.

Badrinath is accessible by road from major cities like Haridwar and Rishikesh. Regular buses and taxis operate to Badrinath. The nearest railway station is in Haridwar, and the closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.

The Satopanth Trek offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan black bears. The region is rich in flora and fauna, so keep your eyes peeled for unique alpine plants and animals along the trail.

The Satopanth Trek covers approximately 40 kilometers over seven days. Daily distances vary, with some days involving steep ascents and descents. It's important to pace yourself and take breaks to enjoy the stunning scenery.

Mobile connectivity can be limited in the higher altitudes of the Satopanth Trek. While you may have signal in Badrinath, expect little to no connectivity on the trail. It's advisable to inform family or friends about your trekking plans beforehand.