Way to heaven. Trek in Himalaya

The Swargarohini Trek is a majestic adventure through the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, featuring a mountain group of four peaks.Known as the "Way to Heaven," this trek reaches an impressive altitude of 17,987 feet in the Chamoli district.Starting from Badrinath, this journey offers not just breathtaking landscapes but also a deep connection with ancient mythology and spiritual significance.

• Historical significance

Swargarohini has a rich historical and mythological background.According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas from the Mahabharata ascended to heaven from this region.Swargarohini, which means "the path to heaven," is named after this significant event.For centuries, pilgrims and trekkers have traversed this route, seeking both the beauty of the Himalayas and a deeper connection with nature.

• Location and starting point

The trek typically begins in Badrinath, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.Badrinath is nestled at an altitude of approximately 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) above sea level.Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys, Badrinath serves as the perfect base for various treks, including Swargarohini.

• Altitude and trekking route

The Swargarohini trek involves varying altitudes, with the highest point being the Swargarohini Peak at approximately 6,252 meters (20,512 feet) above sea level.The journey includes ascending and descending through alpine meadows, forests, and high passes.Trekkers usually camp at different altitudes to acclimatize to the changing elevations.The route from Badrinath typically passes through Mana Village, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border.From Mana, the trek leads to the majestic Vasudhara Falls and continues towards the Swargarohini Base Camp, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.The final ascent to Swargarohini Peak requires technical skills and proper equipment due to its challenging terrain.

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• Mythological insights

According to legends, the Pandavas took this route to ascend to heaven, with only Yudhishthira and a dog reaching the heavenly abode.Swargarohini is believed to be the only path from where one can reach heaven in human form.The sacred Satopanth Lake, lying amidst the Chaukhamba massifs, is believed to have been bathed in by Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, making it holy and pure.Devotees believe that a dip in Satopanth Lake washes away sins, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

• Picturesque landscapes

The trek starts from Mana Village, leading to the famous Vasudhara Falls, followed by crossing the Dhano Glacier.The route passes through Laxmi Van, a dense forest with caves inhabited by saints.The serene Satopanth Lake is a highlight, where trekkers can spend time in divine surroundings.The trek also includes Chandrakund and Suryakund, each with its own mythical story.

• Base camp: Joshimath

Joshimath, a picturesque town in Chamoli at an altitude of 1,875 meters, serves as the base camp for the Swargarohini Trek.Nestled amid high Himalayan peaks, Joshimath is the gateway to famous pilgrimage sites like Badrinath Dham and Hemkund Sahib Ji.The town is steeped in spirituality with ancient temples and is home to one of the four "Maths" established by Adi Shankar Acharya.The tranquil charm of Joshimath, away from city noise, with gushing rivers and verdant green surroundings, is sure to lure visitors repeatedly.

• Why choose this trek?

Before diving into the itinerary, it’s essential to understand why Swargarohini Trek is a worthy adventure.The total trekking distance is about 78 kilometers on foot over 13 days, with the entire journey covering 680 kilometers by taxi from Dehradun and back.This high-altitude trek, reaching 17,987 feet, is challenging and not suitable for beginners.Proper gear and clothing for sub-zero temperatures are necessary.The trek offers panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, pine forests, and diverse flora and fauna.Interaction with the local team provides insights into ancient Indian mythology and local cultures, enriching the trekking experience.The stunning landscapes demand proper photo gear and extra battery backup.Trekkers should limit their backpack to 12 kilograms and carry essential documents like a Photo ID, Aadhar card, Passport, Visa, medical certificate, and trek insurance for entry at forest check posts.Note that alcohol, non-vegetarian food, and smoking are prohibited during the trek.

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Conclusion

The Swargarohini Trek via Badrinath is a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance, making it a memorable and rewarding adventure for those seeking to explore the Himalayas.With its historical and mythological connections, stunning landscapes, and challenging terrain, this trek offers a unique experience that is both physically demanding and spiritually enriching.Whether you are drawn by the allure of the Himalayas, the call of ancient legends, or the desire for a profound connection with nature, the Swargarohini Trek is an adventure that promises to leave a lasting impression.