Bandar punch expedition

Bandarpunch Expedition – A Journey to the Mighty Peak in Uttarakhand

Overview
The Bandarpunch Expedition is one of the most captivating high-altitude adventures in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Towering at an elevation of 6,312 meters, Bandarpunch derives its name from its unique shape, which resembles the tail of a monkey — a tribute to Lord Hanuman, who is worshipped in this region.

Located between the Swargarohini and Kalanag ranges, Bandarpunch is a part of a trio of peaks over 6000 meters:

• Bandarpunch I (6,312 m)

• Bandarpunch II (6,102 m)

• Black Peak / Kalanag (6,387 m)

From afar, the mountain appears like a sitting monkey, adding to its mythical and cultural importance. The peak was first successfully climbed in 1950 by a team led by Major General Harold Williams, accompanied by the legendary Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, Norg Sargent, and Greenwood — a historic feat in Indian mountaineering.

Bandarpunch Expedition Trail and Route

The expedition begins from Sukhi Top, located on the route to Gangotri. From there, a two-day trek takes you to the base camp, followed by two more alpine camps en route to the summit. The climb becomes significantly more technical between Camp 1 and the summit due to crevasses and steep snow walls.

The trail offers stunning natural diversity, including dense forests, high-altitude meadows, and pristine campsites. Along the way, trekkers pass through Uttarkashi and Sukhi Top, both essential halts on this adventurous route.

Summit Views

From the summit of Bandarpunch, you are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of several iconic Himalayan peaks, including:

• Kinnaur ranges

• Jogin Peaks

• Thelu

• Sudarshan Parbat

• Chandra Parbat

• Satopanth

• Matri

• Swetvaran

• Gangotri group of peaks

• Jaonli, and many more

These views are among the finest in the Indian Himalayas and offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience for climbers.

Expedition Highlights

• Level: Technical, Difficult, and Challenging

• Duration: 15 Nights / 16 Days (Dehradun to Dehradun)

• Base Camp: Uttarkashi (via Sukhi Top)

• Best Season: Mid-May to June, September, and October

• Temperature Range:

  • Day: 5°C to 8°C

  • Night: -2°C to -6°C (can drop to -10°C at higher camps)

• Altitude: 6,312 meters

• Group Size: Minimum 4, Maximum 10 climbers

Important Guidelines

• This expedition requires prior high-altitude trekking and mountaineering experience.

• Proper gear including snow boots, layered clothing, and technical climbing equipment is essential.

• Acclimatization is crucial due to the high altitude.

• Carry photography equipment and extra batteries to capture the majestic views.

• Backpack weight should be limited to 15 kg.

• Smoking and alcohol are strictly prohibited during the expedition.