Nanda Devi East Base Camp & Milam Glacier Trek

Nanda Devi East Base Camp & Milam Glacier Trek

Explore the Majestic Heart of the Kumaon Himalayas

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the remote heartland of the Kumaon Himalayas, where myth, raw wilderness, and alpine beauty converge. The Nanda Devi East Base Camp and Milam Glacier trek is not just a test of endurance, but a spiritual and visual odyssey through the realm of the goddess herself.

Dominating this landscape is the mighty Nanda Devi (25,643 ft), India’s second-highest peak. Its twin, Nanda Devi East (Sunanda Devi), is a sacred symbol of the divine feminine, standing tall over the serene villages and valleys of Johar Valley. This trek offers spectacular views of majestic snow-capped peaks, remote Himalayan settlements, ancient culture, and awe-inspiring glaciers. For seasoned trekkers, this route presents the perfect blend of challenge and reward.

Tour Highlights

• Close encounter with Nanda Devi East Base Camp (3,900m) – one of the most sacred and striking views in the Indian Himalayas.

• Visit the Milam Glacier, source of the Gori Ganga River, and witness panoramic views of Mount Trishul, Hardeol, and Rishi Parvat.

• Walk through remote and culturally rich Himalayan villages like Martoli, Laspa, Ghangar, and Milam.

• Get a glimpse into the life of the Johari tribe, known for their Ayurvedic knowledge and wool craft.

• Spot exotic high-altitude flora and fauna within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve – including Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, and rare alpine birds.

• Immerse yourself in a myth-laden route tied deeply with Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer Season: May to June – Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and perfect trekking weather.

• Autumn Season: September to November – Crystal-clear mountain views and minimal tourist traffic.

Detailed Itinerary: Nanda Devi East Base Camp & Milam Glacier Trek

Day 1: Arrival – Haldwani/Kathgodam to Munsiyari

Your journey begins with a picturesque drive through the rolling hills and verdant valleys of Kumaon. Pass through key towns like Almora, Bageshwar, and Thal before ascending the winding mountain roads to Munsiyari – a charming town nestled in the Johar Valley and gateway to several high Himalayan treks.

• Distance: Approx. 285 km / 9–10 hrs drive

• Altitude: 2,200 m

• Stay: Comfortable guesthouse/hotel in Munsiyari

• Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Munsiyari to Bugdyar via Lilam

After breakfast, take a short drive to Lilam village (approx. 30 km). Begin your trek from Lilam, following the scenic trail alongside the Gori Ganga River. The route takes you through dense forests, wooden bridges, and refreshing river crossings before reaching Bugdyar – a lush meadow encircled by forested slopes.

• Drive Distance: 30 km

• Trek Distance: 5 km

• Altitude: 2,700 m

• Stay: Tents or basic forest rest house

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Bugdyar to Rilkot

Today’s trek takes you through a mix of rocky gorges and green pastures. The path gently ascends with several waterfalls en route, offering panoramic views of the surrounding ridges. As you move deeper into the Johar Valley, the scenery turns increasingly alpine. Reach Rilkot, a windswept terrain that once served as a military outpost.

• Trek Distance: 12 km

• Altitude: 3,200 m

• Stay: Tented accommodation

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Rilkot to Ghanghar

Continue trekking through surreal Himalayan terrain, crossing the high-altitude pastures of Lhaspa and Mapang. Arrive at the beautiful village of Ghanghar – known for its heritage homes and proximity to both Nanda Devi East and Milam Glacier. This region was once an important part of the Indo-Tibetan trade route.

• Trek Distance: 18 km

• Altitude: 3,300 m

• Stay: Tents or basic village homestay

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Ghanghar to Nanda Devi East Base Camp (Sunanda Devi Base)

Begin your trek early to ascend to the famed Nanda Devi East Base Camp. The trail opens into wide alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers and offers spectacular views of the mighty Nanda Devi East peak (7,434 m). Soak in the serenity of this sacred space, revered by both mountaineers and spiritual seekers.

• Trek Distance: 7 km

• Altitude: 3,900 m

• Stay: Tents

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Base Camp to Milam Glacier Viewpoint and Milam Village

Trek across rocky terrain to the viewpoint of the awe-inspiring Milam Glacier, one of the largest in the Kumaon Himalayas. From here, descend gradually to Milam village – a historical settlement that once thrived as a major trading post. Explore ancient houses and learn about its fascinating trade legacy.

• Trek Distance: 14–15 km

• Altitude: 3,300 m

• Stay: Guesthouse or tents in Milam

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Milam to Martoli

Retrace your path partially to reach Martoli, another culturally rich village set against a backdrop of Himalayan peaks. Known for its distinctive Tibetan-influenced architecture, Martoli is an ideal place to explore stories of the lost Indo-Tibetan trade era.

• Trek Distance: 10 km

• Altitude: 3,100 m

• Stay: Tents or traditional homestay

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Martoli to Laspa

Trek further down the Johar Valley to Laspa, a peaceful village surrounded by terraced fields and forested ridges. The trail is less trodden, offering moments of solitude and spectacular views of Himalayan landscapes.

• Trek Distance: 10–12 km

• Stay: Tents

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Laspa to Munsiyari via Lilam

Trek back to Lilam where your vehicle awaits. Drive back to Munsiyari for a well-deserved rest after completing this memorable high-altitude Himalayan journey.

• Trek Distance: 5 km

• Drive Distance: 30 km

• Stay: Guesthouse/Hotel in Munsiyari

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner