Bhyundar Khal Pass in Chamoli, Uttarakhand - a challenging trek linking the Valley of Flowers to Niti Valley. Know the route, location, and best time to visit
Bhyundar Khal Pass is a beautiful and adventurous high mountain pass located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is a hidden gem for experienced trekkers and nature lovers who want to explore the inner Himalayan regions. This pass lies in the Garhwal Himalayas and connects the popular Valley of Flowers and Badrinath region with the Gamshali village in the Niti Valley.
The Bhyundar Khal Pass trek is not an ordinary trail. It is considered one of the most challenging and remote treks in Uttarakhand. This pass is situated at an altitude of approximately 5,000 metres (16,400 feet) above sea level. It offers breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, alpine meadows, glaciers, and untouched valleys. The trek takes you through dense forests, colourful flower-filled valleys, high-altitude glaciers, and ancient trails once used by shepherds and locals.
Bhyundar Khal Pass is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. The pass lies in the inner Garhwal Himalayas and falls within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. The route starts from Govindghat or Ghangaria, which are also gateways to Hemkund Sahib and the Valley of Flowers.
The pass connects two important regions – the Bhyundar Valley (near Valley of Flowers) and the Niti Valley (Gamshali village area). This region is close to the India-China border, and because of its sensitive location, special permissions are required to enter the area.
Nearby landmarks include:
Reaching Bhyundar Khal Pass involves multiple steps, including road travel, moderate trekking, and then a challenging high-altitude expedition. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to reach the starting point of the trek and complete the journey:
1. By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 300 km from Govindghat. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Govindghat via Rishikesh and Joshimath.
2. By Train: The closest railway station is Rishikesh or Haridwar, which are well-connected to major cities in India. From there, buses or taxis are available to reach Joshimath and then Govindghat.
3. By Road: You can reach Govindghat via road from Haridwar (275 km), Rishikesh, or Dehradun. The road passes through scenic places like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Joshimath.
Note: Due to its difficulty and proximity to the border, trekkers must obtain special permits from forest and army authorities, and it is strongly recommended to go with a professional guide or trekking agency.
The ideal time to visit and attempt the Bhyundar Khal Pass trek is between mid-June to mid-September, during the summer and monsoon seasons.
Important Note: The pass remains inaccessible and extremely dangerous during winter months (October to May) due to heavy snowfall, avalanches, and harsh weather conditions.
The trek is physically demanding and requires preparation, stamina, and a strong spirit of adventure. But the rewards – stunning views, rare Himalayan flora and fauna, spiritual peace, and the thrill of walking in one of India’s most secluded regions – make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.