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Dhumdhar Kandi Pass

Explore Dhumdhar Kandi Pass in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, India - a high-altitude trek with glaciers, scenic views, and mythological links. Best time and route.


Dhumdhar Kandi Pass is a hidden gem in the Indian Himalayas, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. At an altitude of around 5,490 metres (18,012 feet), it is a high mountain pass that connects the Bhagirathi valley to the Yamunotri valley. This pass was once used by local villagers, shepherds, and even the legendary Pandavas, according to Hindu mythology.

Today, Dhumdhar Kandi is a dream destination for trekkers who are looking for an offbeat, adventurous, and scenic trail. With glaciers, alpine meadows, and panoramic views of famous Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini, Black Peak (Kalanag), and Bandarpunch, this pass offers one of the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand.

Where is Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Located?

Dhumdhar Kandi Pass is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas within Gangotri National Park, Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It lies on a ridge between two river basins – Bhagirathi (which later becomes the Ganga) and Yamuna. The pass is surrounded by glaciers like Swargarohini Glacier, Bandarpunch Glacier, and Kalanag Glacier.

It is a remote region, away from popular tourist routes. That’s why it remains unexplored and untouched by heavy crowds.

How to Reach Dhumdhar Kandi Pass

Reaching Dhumdhar Kandi Pass involves several steps. Since it is located deep in the mountains, you cannot reach it directly by road. Here’s how to plan your journey:

Step 1: Reach Dehradun

  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.
  • Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station.
  • You can reach Dehradun from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Lucknow by flight or train.

Step 2: Travel to Sankri Village (Base Camp)

  • From Dehradun, you need to drive or take a shared taxi to Sankri, a small village in the Uttarkashi district.
  • Distance: Around 200 km.
  • Time: 8–10 hours by road.
  • Sankri is a popular base camp for many treks in Uttarakhand like Har Ki Dun and Kedarkantha.

Step 3: Start the Trek

The trek to Dhumdhar Kandi Pass usually takes 10–12 days and requires proper planning. You need experienced guides, porters, and camping equipment. Some important points of the trekking route are:

  • Sankri – Taluka – Osla – Devsu Bugyal – Ruinsara Tal
  • Ruinsara Tal – Black Peak Base – Dhumdhar Kandi Pass
  • After crossing the pass, the trail leads to the Yamunotri Valley and ends at Jhala or Hanuman Chatti.

Important Tip: This is a high-altitude, glacier-crossing trek. It is not suitable for beginners. Only experienced trekkers or those with good fitness levels should attempt it, and always with proper support.

Best Time to Visit Dhumdhar Kandi Pass

The best time to visit Dhumdhar Kandi Pass is during late summer and early autumn, specifically:

  • Mid-May to June
  • September to early October

During these months:

  • The weather is relatively stable.
  • Snow has melted enough to allow safe passage.
  • The views are clear and breathtaking.

Avoid these months:

  • July to August: Heavy monsoon rains cause landslides and make the trail slippery and dangerous.
  • Late October to April: The entire region is covered in heavy snow, and the pass becomes inaccessible.

Dhumdhar Kandi Pass is not just a trek – it is a journey into the heart of the untouched Himalayas. Surrounded by glaciers, sacred peaks, and peaceful landscapes, this remote trail offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Though challenging, it is a paradise for those who love real adventure and want to explore nature in its purest form.

If you are an experienced trekker looking for something raw, spiritual, and unforgettable, Dhumdhar Kandi Pass awaits you.

Related Uttarakhand Tourism Posts - Passes of Uttarakhand

1. Auden's Col Mountain Pass 2. Balcha Dhura Pass 3. Bali Pass 4. Bamsaru Khal Pass 5. Barmai Pass 6. Bhyundar Khal Pass 7. Bishali Col Pass 8. Borasu Pass 9. Danu Dhura Pass 10. Darwa Pass 11. Dharansi Pass 12. Dhumdhar Kandi Pass 13. Fachu Kandi Pass 14. Gupt Khal Pass 15. Junargali Pass 16. Kalindi Khal Pass 17. Kanakata Pass 18. Kankul Pass 19. Kuari Pass 20. Kunth Khal Pass 21. Lamkhaga Pass 22. Lampiya Dhura Pass 23. Lipu Lekh Pass 24. Mahapanth Col Pass 25. Mana Pass 26. Mangsha Dhura Pass 27. Mayali Pass 28. Nalgan Pass 29. Nama Pass Pithoragarh 30. Niti Pass 31. Panpatia Col Pass 32. Ralam Dhura Pass 33. Rupin Pass 34. Sin La Pass Pithoragarh 35. Singha Ghati Pass 36. Traill’s Pass 37. Tunjun Pass 38. Unta Dhura Pass 39. Yeonbuk Col Pass


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