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🌿 Kumaon Ridge & Kharak Meadows

Ranthan Kharak Trek

A peaceful 7-day ridge and meadow journey through Kumaon — forest paths, wide alpine kharaks, and quiet summit views ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Ranthan Kharak Trek in Kumaon, Uttarakhand
₹10,500 + GSTPer person
7 Days / 6 NightsDuration
ModerateGrade
Kathgodam / GoginaBase
Quick facts

Quick Facts – Ranthan Kharak Trek

🥾 Grade

Moderate trek with steady climbs and a short summit push.

🕒 Duration

7 Days / 6 Nights • Approx. 35–40 km total trail.

⛰️ Altitude

Highest point around 12,000 ft at Ranthan Top.

🏕️ Basecamp

Kathgodam arrival → drive toward Gogina region.

🌄 Highlights

Wide kharaks (meadows) • Ridge walks • Kumaon peak views.

💪 Fitness

Able to walk 4–6 hrs daily • Practice stairs & jogs.

🌡️ Temperature

2°C to 12°C • Cooler nights at higher camps.

🚐 Pickup / Drop

Kathgodam (Haldwani) • Morning pickup, evening drop.

Quick answer

What is the Ranthan Kharak Trek?

The Ranthan Kharak Trek is a 7 days / 6 nights, moderate trek from Kathgodam / Gogina in Kumaon, Uttarakhand (highest point: Highest point around 12,000 ft at Ranthan Top). Suitable for beginners who prepare well and for regular walkers. Expect 5–7 hours of walking a day, some steep sections and one early-morning summit push. It costs ₹10,500 + 5% GST per person and is ideal for first-time Himalayan trekkers, meadow and rhododendron season (Mar – Jun).

📍 About the region

Kumaon is the eastern half of Uttarakhand — quieter than Garhwal, with lake towns such as Nainital and Bhimtal, old stone villages and wide views of the Panchachuli, Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks.

A quiet trail with ridge-line views.

📅 Best time for the Ranthan Kharak Trek

March – JuneMelting snow, rhododendron blooms, green meadows and longer days — comfortable temperatures for camping.

Group departures run through the season; the booking calendar opens for this month and next month. Weather in the mountains changes quickly — your trek leader may adjust the schedule for safety.

🏔️ Ranthan Kharak Trek – Kumaon Meadows & Ridge Trail

A scenic 7-day trail through quiet Kumaon villages, dense forests, wide alpine kharaks (meadows) and a high ridge viewpoint known as Ranthan Top. Ideal for trekkers seeking peace, open landscapes, and panoramic Himalayan views.

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Kathgodam ➝ Kumaon Village (Base Region)

Distance: ~95 km (drive)Travel Time: 4–5 hrs

Arrive at Kathgodam railway station and drive through the pine-covered hills of Kumaon to a quiet base village near the Gogina region. Settle into a homestay, meet your trek leader, and complete the safety briefing.

💰 Transport: Shared cab available from Kathgodam (not included in trek fee).
Day 2

Base Village ➝ Forest Camp

Trek Distance: ~6 kmDuration: 4–5 hrs

Begin with a gentle trail that climbs through oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. The route opens occasionally into small clearings perfect for photography. Reach the first forest-side campsite and rest under the tall Himalayan trees.

Day 3

Forest Camp ➝ Lower Kharak Meadows

Trek Distance: ~7 kmDuration: 5 hrs

A beautiful day that slowly takes you out of the forest and into the first wide kharaks (open meadows). These grasslands offer sweeping views and a peaceful camping experience.

Day 4

Lower Kharak ➝ Upper Kharak / High Camp

Trek Distance: ~5 kmDuration: 3–4 hrs

Climb steadily to the upper meadows, one of the highlights of the entire trek. The landscape begins to open on all sides, offering long-distance views of Kumaon’s peaks. Early dinner and rest before the summit attempt.

Day 5

Summit Day: High Camp ➝ Ranthan Top ➝ Camp

Trek Distance: ~8 km (round trip)Duration: 5–6 hrs

Begin early for a refreshing climb to Ranthan Top (approx. 12,000 ft). From the ridge, enjoy breathtaking mountain views depending on weather: long stretches of Kumaon valleys, remote peaks, and rolling meadows. Return to camp by afternoon.

Day 6

Return Trek: High Camp ➝ Base Village

Trek Distance: ~10 kmDuration: 6 hrs

A long but enjoyable descent through meadows and forests. Reach the base village by evening and enjoy a warm Kumaoni-style dinner.

Day 7

Base Village ➝ Kathgodam (Departure)

Drive: 4–5 hrs back to Kathgodam

After breakfast, begin your return journey. Reach Kathgodam by afternoon for onward train or bus connections.

⚠️ Trek Notes

  • Distances and elevations are approximate and may vary by route.
  • Nights can be cold at higher camps; carry adequate layers.
  • Local village permissions may be required (handled by the trek operator).
  • Expect minimal mobile network beyond the base village.
  • Best seasons: April–May & September–November.

Cost of the Ranthan Kharak Trek

The trek has one fixed per-person price, so there are no surprises. Transport from the pickup city, rental gear and meals can be added when you book.

Trek fee (per person)₹10,500
GST @ 5%₹525
Total per person₹11,025
Group of 4 (total)₹44,100
Add-on: Transport+ ₹2,000 per person
Add-on: Equipment Rental+ ₹1,500 per person
Add-on: Meals+ ₹1,200 per person

Fitness & preparation

Suitable for beginners who prepare well and for regular walkers. Expect 5–7 hours of walking a day, some steep sections and one early-morning summit push. At high altitude (highest point: Highest point around 12,000 ft at Ranthan Top), the air holds noticeably less oxygen, so walk slowly, drink 3–4 litres of water a day and tell your trek leader about headaches or nausea early.

  • Walk or jog 5 km, 4–5 days a week for 4 weeks before the trek.
  • Climb stairs with a light backpack to build leg strength.
  • Practise breathing and stretching; sleep well in the days before.
  • Tell your trek leader about any health conditions before starting.

🚐 How to reach Kathgodam / Gogina

Pickup / drop: Kathgodam (Haldwani) • Morning pickup, evening drop.

  • By air: Pantnagar Airport (PGH) – about 30 km from Kathgodam, with limited flights; most trekkers use Delhi and the train.
  • By train: Kathgodam railway station – the Shatabdi from New Delhi (about 6 hours) and overnight trains such as the Ranikhet Express.
  • By road: Buses from Delhi (Anand Vihar) reach Haldwani/Kathgodam in about 7 hours.

💡 The overnight train from Delhi is the easiest way to arrive in time for the morning pickup. Compare fares on our flight search.

🎒 What to pack

  • Trekking shoes with good grip (broken in)
  • Three warm layers + a down/padded jacket
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Woollen cap, gloves and 3–4 pairs of socks
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm
  • Water bottle (1–2 L) and snacks
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Personal medicines and a basic first-aid kit
  • Government photo ID (for forest permits)
Gallery

Ranthan Kharak Trek photos

Ranthan kharak trek kumaon – view 1Ranthan kharak trek kumaon – view 2Ranthan kharak trek kumaon – view 3Ranthan kharak trek kumaon – view 4Ranthan kharak trek kumaon – view 5
Ranthan Kharak Trek video
Ranthan Kharak Trek video
Fact check

Key facts & sources

The Ranthan Kharak Trek costs ₹10,500 per person plus 5% GST (₹525), a total of ₹11,025, with NamasteTrip in 2026. The trek takes 7 days and 6 nights, starts from Kathgodam / Gogina, is graded moderate and reaches about 12,000 ft. The price is fixed per person, and transport from the pickup city, rental gear and meals can be added when booking.

Altitude sickness can affect anyone above about 2,500 metres (8,200 ft), according to the UK National Health Service (NHS). Above 3,000 metres the NHS advises sleeping no more than 500 metres higher than the previous night and taking a rest day every 3 to 4 days. Tell your trek leader immediately if you develop a headache, nausea or dizziness.

Sources

Last reviewed on 6 October 2026 by the NamasteTrip team.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

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How much does the Ranthan Kharak Trek cost?

The Ranthan Kharak Trek costs ₹10,500 per person + 5% GST with NamasteTrip. Optional add-ons: Transport (₹2,000), Equipment Rental (₹1,500), Meals (₹1,200).

How many days is the Ranthan Kharak Trek?

It is a 7 Days / 6 Nights trek starting from Kathgodam / Gogina in Kumaon, Uttarakhand.

How difficult is the Ranthan Kharak Trek?

It is graded Moderate. Recommended fitness: Able to walk 4–6 hrs daily • Practice stairs & jogs.

What is the maximum altitude of the Ranthan Kharak Trek?

Highest point around 12,000 ft at Ranthan Top.

What is the best time for the Ranthan Kharak Trek?

NamasteTrip runs this trek in March – June.

Where does the Ranthan Kharak Trek start?

Base: Kathgodam / Gogina. Pickup / drop: Kathgodam (Haldwani) • Morning pickup, evening drop.

How do I reach the Ranthan Kharak Trek base camp?

The group transfer leaves from Kathgodam (Haldwani). By air: Pantnagar Airport (PGH) – about 30 km from Kathgodam, with limited flights; most trekkers use Delhi and the train. By train: Kathgodam railway station – the Shatabdi from New Delhi (about 6 hours) and overnight trains such as the Ranikhet Express.

Is the Ranthan Kharak Trek safe for beginners and solo travellers?

Suitable for beginners who prepare well and for regular walkers. Expect 5–7 hours of walking a day, some steep sections and one early-morning summit push. Every departure is led by an experienced trek leader with local guides, and many of our trekkers join solo — including solo women travellers.

What is the total cost of the Ranthan Kharak Trek with GST?

₹10,500 + 5% GST (₹525) = ₹11,025 per person. Optional add-ons such as transport, gear rental and meals are charged per person.

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