Phulara Ridge Trek – All You Will Need to Know about

The Phulara Ridge Trek is one of the hidden gems of the Garhwal Himalayas, offering an unparalleled trekking experience. Nestled in the Uttarakhand region of India, this trek is known for its unique ridge walk, breathtaking landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Whether you are an avid trekker or a nature enthusiast, the Phulara Ridge Trek promises an unforgettable adventure. Here is everything you need to know about this spectacular trek.

The Phulara Ridge Trek spans approximately 25 kilometers and typically takes about 5-6 days to complete. The highest point of the trek is the Phulara Ridge itself, which stands at an altitude of around 3,700 meters (12,140 feet). The trek is considered moderate in difficulty, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced trekkers. The best time to embark on this trek is from May to June and September to October when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

Starting Point

The trek begins from Sankri, a picturesque village located about 200 kilometers from Dehradun. Sankri serves as the base camp for several popular treks in the region, including the Kedarkantha Trek. To reach Sankri, you can take a bus or hire a taxi from Dehradun, which is well connected by road, rail, and air.

Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri

Sankari is easily accessible from Dehradun or Missouri. The journey takes about 8-10 hours but the scenic route doesn’t allow for any lack of fun. The soft whispers of the Tons River will keep you busy, as Purola and other quaint little towns in the Uttarkashi region pass through it. While crossing the last 22 kms of Sankari, we will stay at Govinda National Park, with its diverse flora and fauna. Traveling in such exotic places will revitalize your soul and wash away the remnants of fatigue. Sankari, our charming village destination, is right in this huge garden.

Once we reach Sankari, we will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the climbing mountains. Explore the area and enjoy beautiful sunsets with the Himalayas as a backdrop. After spending the night in this beautiful village, we will resume our trek the next day feeling refreshed.

Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Sikolta

We start our trek with a bit of climbing through the dense forest. You will find tall pine trees all around, giving a warm sense of peace. Look out for resident birds such as wood sparrows, woodpeckers and drongos. Continuing the climb for a bit, we reach a scenic spot, with the only ‘dhaba’ we encounter during our trek. What’s more than that? If you’re lucky, you might even find a villager greeting you with some rhythm on your flute.

Once in Sikolta, we will pack our bags and hike to Juda ka Talab, a beautiful alpine lake. From here you can also enjoy the beautiful view of the snow capped mountains in the distance.

We will camp for the night in such beautiful surroundings and resume our trek the next day.

Day 3: Trek from Sikolta to Bhoj Gadi

Today, starting our trek back into the forest will take us to a wooden bridge. Listen to the sound of a small river flowing under this bridge. After conquering a short, steep path, you will be rewarded by the opening of the beautiful “Carsu Fach”. This is a lush area where you can see lots of red wildflowers. There is also an abandoned wooden barn, which makes the whole scene feel straight out of a postcard.

The road ahead is lined with rhododendrons giving way to the stunning meadows of the green meadows of Bhojgadi. With its backdrop of snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands, it is one of the most beautiful camps on the Himalayan trail. The camp offers panoramic views of Kedarkanth and Swarga Rohini mountain. Take a walk to this area with its beautiful stone and wooden arrangements. Soak in the beautiful surroundings and let the stress of the place wash over you.

Day 4: Trek from Bhoj Gadi to Pushtara via Phulara Ridge

Start the day with a spectacular sunrise and get ready for an important day of hiking. After an hour’s walk from the party van, we will descend to the magnificent Phulara hill. Its narrow coast slopes down into the hills on either side, offering panoramic views of some of the finest views of the Garhwal Himalayas and taking in the sublime beauty of the famous paradises of Rohini, Kalanag and Bandarpoonch mountains among others. To say the experience will shock you is an understatement.

After crossing the gorge, we will descend into the scenic Pushtar Bugyal with Pushtar meadows. A pleasant walk through this lush vegetation is a welcome change after a pleasant climb. The place has many varieties of flowers like Brahma Kamal and Funkamal. With so many beautiful flowers, Phular Cottage lives up to its name. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare Monal Pheasant, the official state bird.

We will camp in such ethereal surroundings for the night.

Day 5: Trek from Pushtara to Taluka and drive to Sankri

Today we begin the descent of civilization. Continuing on the road, we will make our way to Taluka village. After crossing meadows, we will travel the rest of the way through dense forests. As you travel, you will see many beautiful red wildflowers, which will remind you of the beautiful memories of your travels. You will also see groups of ‘langors’ playing and crossing the trees. It’s a treat to watch their bad ways.

On the last leg of our journey we will begin to encounter scattered towns and eventually reach a quaint village. We’ll be greeted by friendly villagers and curious children who may request a dessert or two. The beauty of the Himalayas gives us a glimpse of the simple life of its inhabitants.

A car will take us back to Sankri, where we will spend the night. You can wander around the interesting local shops in the evening and find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your trip.

Day 6: Drive from Sankri to Dehradun

We will start our journey back home.

What to Pack

Packing appropriately is crucial for a successful trek. Here are some essential items to bring:

• Trekking Shoes: Sturdy and comfortable trekking shoes with good grip are a must.
• Clothing: Layered clothing, including thermal wear, fleece jackets, waterproof jackets, and quick-dry t-shirts. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Backpack: A durable backpack with a rain cover.
• Camping Gear: Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping mat (if not provided by your trekking company).
• Personal Items: Water bottles, energy snacks, first-aid kit, toiletries, and a camera.

Tips for a Safe Trek

• Acclimatize Properly: Spend a day or two at the base camp to acclimatize to the altitude.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
• Hire a Guide: It’s advisable to hire a local guide or join a trekking group for a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Respect the environment by not littering and following sustainable trekking practices.

Conclusion

The Phulara Ridge Trek is a captivating journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Himalayas. With its unique ridge walk, diverse flora and fauna, and the chance to experience the local culture, this trek is a must-do for any trekking enthusiast. Whether you are seeking adventure, peace, or a deeper connection with nature, the Phulara Ridge Trek has something to offer for everyone.