A breathtaking glacial trek in Chamoli district leading to the base of the gleaming white granite fang of Mount Changabang and the vast Bagini Glacier.
Nestled in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve near the Indo-Tibetan border in Chamoli district, the Bagini Glacier Trek leads to one of the most dramatic mountain cirques in the Himalayas.
Starting from Jumma along the Dhauliganga River, the trail passes through the historic Bhotiya villages of Ruing and Dronagiri. The village of Dronagiri is famous in Ramayana folklore as the mountain Hanuman sought for the life-saving Sanjeevani herb.
Crossing the river gorge brings trekkers to Bagini Lower and Upper Base Camps (4,480m), standing directly beneath the breathtaking 2,000m sheer vertical granite walls of Mount Changabang ("The Shining Mountain") and Kalanka.
Trekkers are reminded to stay properly hydrated with a minimum of 3-4 liters of water daily. Uttarakhand forest regulations strictly forbid single-use plastics and campfires outside designated grounds. Always pack out non-biodegradable waste.
Along the ridgelines and summit ascents of Bagini Glacier Trek, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of legendary Garhwal & Kumaon summits:
Drive to Joshimath.
Short steep climb from Dhauliganga river to Ruing.
Trek through pine forests and cross the dramatic concrete cantilever gorge to Dronagiri village.
Trek into wide glacial moraines with Dronagiri peak looming above.
Spectacular day at the foot of Changabang and Kalanka granite fangs.
Descent back to Dronagiri.
Return trek to roadhead.
Return journey.
Proper layering and alpine gear are critical for comfort and survival at high altitudes:
The trailhead for Bagini Glacier Trek originates from Jumma / Joshimath in Chamoli district (Garhwal region).
Changabang is a legendary white granite needle revered worldwide by extreme rock climbers for its sheer vertical faces.
Legend says Lord Hanuman broke off part of Mount Dronagiri to carry the Sanjeevani herb to heal Lakshmana.
4,480 meters (14,700 feet).
Yes, with good stamina and acclimatization.
The Dhauliganga, a major headwater tributary of the Alaknanda.
Late September and October provide crystal-clear views of the white granite fangs.