From Ghanjhira, the trek route cross the Hem Ganga over a log bridge. The banks of the river are carpeted with numerous flowers. After a gradual climb, we enter a thick jungle of the Bhojpatra trees (4150 m). The stone paved path ascends in an interminable series of steps, a wonderland of rugged peaks all around. Lower down are glaciers and green forest clad slopes and huge chunks of ice are encountered in shady nooks and corners. The route to the Lakshman pass goes along the river, first along the river of water and then along the river of ice, the Lakshman Ganga and Lakshman Ganga glacier respectively.



The lateral moraine of this glacier is most difficult to tread on. Huge unbalanced boulders and steep route makes climb difficult. Lakshman pass is in between Nilgiri and Arjun parvat. It is 50 m wide and 20 m long. If you have the time and will, make an ascent of the Arjun peak. If one is lucky, can get a glimpse of Mt Kailash (6716 m) in Tibet. From the pass one can see Neelkantha, Chaukamba, Kamet, Abi Gamin, Mana, Nilgiri Parvat, Rataban, Ghori parvat, Nandakana, Uja Tirchhe, Lampak, Hanuman, Drona Giri, Changbang, Bethartoli Himal, Nanda Ghunti, Nanad Gond, Nanadkhat, Nanda Kot, Trishul and Nanada Devi.

You are now walking at high altitude. Every step makes you pant. Do not be in hurry. Move slowly and steadily. One step, then the other. Test the ground with your walking stick.

Day 1 : Explore Valley of flowers and camp high in the valley, if permitted.
Day 2 : Climb to the base of Lakshman pass and camp there (5 hour trek).
Day 3 : Start the climb early and reach the Lakshman Pass (5135 m) in 4 hour, climb down to Thum Udiar and camp.
Day 4 : Trek to Ghamsali over Bhim pul and then to Niti village.
Day 5 : Travel to Joshimath via Malari (90 km) by jeep.



Malari village

Do not over exert yourself. Acclimatisation is needed for this high altitude trek. Be at slow pace to enjoy the nature.

The Tolchha Bhotia women of Niti performs an arduous trek over an exceedingly difficult route over Lakshman pass to Valley of flowers and then to Lakshman kund for a bath on 'Janmashtami' day (in September).