A mythical and perilous high-glacier pass connecting Badrinath and Kedarnath across the legendary snowfields and crevasses of the Panpatia Glacier at 5,260m.
For centuries, legend held that an ancient priest of Badrinath conducted morning pujas at Badrinath and evening aarti at Kedarnath on the very same day using a secret mountain pass. That legendary route is the Panpatia Col Trek (5,260m).
Beginning near Joshimath and Badrinath, the expedition ascends past Shephard huts at Dumak through the wild Khirao valley to the edge of the Panpatia Glacier.
The crossing features an expansive snow plateau known as the Panpatia Snowfield, followed by a steep descent past Madhyamaheshwar into the Mandakini valley. Only highly seasoned mountaineers attempt this formidable traverse.
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 Panpatia Col Trek, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of legendary Garhwal & Kumaon summits:
Drive along Alaknanda valley and prepare gear.
Enter the wild Khirao gorge.
Ascend over giant boulder moraines.
Trek onto the glacier edge.
Prepare fixed ropes and check crevasses.
Technical ascent over the col and camp on the vast white snowfield.
Descent past high glacial lakes.
Traverse high ridges towards Madhyamaheshwar.
Descend to sacred temple of Second Kedar.
Return to roadhead.
Complete expedition.
Proper layering and alpine gear are critical for comfort and survival at high altitudes:
The trailhead for Panpatia Col Trek originates from Badrinath in Chamoli & Rudraprayag district (Garhwal region).
Legend says a priest used this pass to perform morning rituals in Badrinath and evening prayers in Kedarnath on the same day.
5,260 meters (17,257 feet).
A vast high-altitude snow plateau resembling polar icefields nestled among Chaukhamba peaks.
Requires roped glacier travel, crampons, ice axes, and expert high-altitude guidance.
Descends to Madhyamaheshwar temple in Rudraprayag district.
June and September when snow bridges are stable.