The Literal meaning of the word Sunderdhunga is “Valley of beautiful stones”. This valley is
situated to the west of the Pindar valley and has two glacier to offer to trekkers and nature
lovers, namely Maiktoli and Sukhram. It is surrounded by peaks Panwal dwar in north and
Mrigthunii, Maiktoli and Tharkot in the west. The elevation of the glacier spans from 3200 mtrs
to 6050 mtrs. One can also trek to the Sunderdhunga Glacier while in the Pindar region. It is a
tough trek as compared to Pindari and Kafni. The route up to village Khati is common for both
Pindari and Sunderdhunga Glacier. The peaks which offer a spectacular view when seen from
here are Tharkot (6100 m), Mrigthuni (6856 m), Maiktoil (6803 m) and Panwalidwar (6663 m).
The trek provides an excellent insight into the culture and traditions of this valley apart from
enjoying the nature’s abundant bounty.
Kathgodam, Haldwani
Altitude: 7,216 ft (Khati)
Time takes: 4-5 hours drive + 1.5 hours trek (5 km)
Trek gradient: Easy. Mostly descending trail
Water sources: Streams along the way
Altitude: 7,216 ft to 8,036 ft
Time taken: 5-6 hours, 8 km
Trek gradient: Easy. Initial flat walk followed by a descent for about 1.5 km. Gradually ascending trail from here followed by a
series of easy descents and ascents.
Water sources: River along the trail
Altitude: 8,036 ft to 10,660 ft
Time taken: 8 hours, 13 km
Trek gradient: Moderate-Difficult. Starts with a steep ascent. Levels off for a short distance followed by a series of steep
ascents and short, gradual descents. The last 3 km are a steady ascent.
Water sources: Streams and small waterfalls along the trail.
Altitude: 10,660 ft to 12,628 ft and back to 10,660 ft
Time taken: 5-6 hours, 8 km
Trek gradient: Difficult. Constantly ascending trail to Maiktoli Base camp
Water sources: Streams along the trail for the first hour, till you reach the glacier zone.
Altitude: 10,660 ft to 12,513 ft and back to 10,660 ft
Time taken: 5-6 hours, 7 km
Trek gradient: Difficult. Steep ascent for the first 2 km followed by a gradual ascent to Baluni Top.
Water sources: One source, around 2 km from Kathaliya. Refill all your water bottles here.
Altitude: 10,660 ft to 8,036 ft
Time taken: 4-5 hours, 13 km
Trek gradient: Moderate. Descending all the way to Jatoli
Water sources: River and streams along the trail
