Khaliya peak trek

A trek that affords amazing views of the towering peaks of the Panchachuli, Nanda Devi and Nanda kot is the Khaliya peak. An easy trek for beginners Khaliya is easily approachable from Munsiyari in the Kumaon Himalayas. At just eight km from Munsiyari the walk up to Khaliya meadow takes just a couple of hours.

How to get there: From Delhi take NH24 till Rampur, then NH87 till kathgodam. Take the state highway to Ranikhet, stay overnight. Drive to Vijaypur via Bageshwar, stay the night. You will get to Munsiyari by the third evening.

Day one: Munsiyari- Bhujani- Khaliya meadow. A narrow path zig zags it way through thick Rhododendron forest to reach Bhujani at 4 km where you emerge out of the tree line and get a glimpse of the most incredible view. A little further is Khaliya meadow where you camp for the night.

Day two: trek up to Khaliya peak. This is also a great opportunity to get a feel of the snow line in summers as snow is still on the ground and one can find tiny icicles formed in the alcoves under the vegetation. At the peak what awaits you is a panoramic view of the Panchachuli, Nanda Devi and Nanda kot that seem almost at touching distance.

Day three: Khaliya to Martoli thor. A descent from Khaliya brings you to a beautiful meadow in the midst of forest, camp here for the night.

Day four: Return to Munsiyari.

What to pack

  • A duffle bag or a back pack for your clothes etc.
  • A day pack that you will carry while walking with your water bottle.
  • Trekking shoes- ensure that they are broken in before the trek.
  • Three pairs of track pants with at least one that is synthetic and quick drying, or three pairs of cargo pants.
  • Three to four cotton T shirts a full sleeve sweater or a fleece jacket.
  • Full sleeve down jacket.
  • A pair of thermal inners.
  • Four to five pairs of regular sports sock and one pair of wollen socks.
  • Woolen cap and muffler
  • Proper rain gear with a jacket and a lower.
  • Water proof gloves.
  • First aid kit.
  • A thin towel that dries fast.
  • Sun block and lip balm.
  • One water bottle and a flash light with an extra set of batteries.
  • Sandals or a pair of comfortable shoes to wear around camp.