A legendary and rarely attempted high-altitude trail connecting Madhyamaheshwar and Kalpeshwar via the sacred glacial lake of Nandi Kund and Ghiya Vinayak Pass (4,800m).
Spanning the dramatic watershed between Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts, Nandi Kund (4,800m) is one of the most sacred and arduous pilgrimage treks in the Garhwal Himalayas. The lake is dedicated to Nandi, the celestial bull vehicle of Lord Shiva.
Starting from Ransi and passing the second Kedar shrine of Madhyamaheshwar (3,497m), the trail climbs high into alpine meadows towards Kachni Dhar and Pandav Shera — where ancient iron weapons attributed to the Pandavas are still preserved in stone caves.
The trail reaches the pristine, deeply spiritual waters of Nandi Kund before crossing the knife-edge Ghiya Vinayak Pass (4,800m) to descend into the lush Urgam valley and the fifth Kedar shrine of Kalpeshwar.
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 Nandi Kund Trek, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of legendary Garhwal & Kumaon summits:
Drive via Ukhimath to Ransi.
Trek along Madhu Ganga to 2nd Kedar.
Climb above tree line facing Chaukhamba.
Hike through sacred caves and alpine streams.
Ascend to the crystal glacial lake of Nandi Kund.
Challenging pass crossing into Chamoli district.
Descend to 5th Kedar shrine of Kalpeshwar.
Return journey.
Proper layering and alpine gear are critical for comfort and survival at high altitudes:
The trailhead for Nandi Kund Trek originates from Ransi / Urgam in Rudraprayag & Chamoli district (Garhwal region).
4,800 meters (15,748 feet).
Madhyamaheshwar (2nd Kedar) and Kalpeshwar (5th Kedar).
Ancient iron swords and axes traditionally believed to have been left by the Pandavas.
Ghiya Vinayak Pass at 4,800 meters.
No, it is a demanding and technical trek requiring high physical stamina.
June and September to early October.