Sankri – The Base Camp for Trekkers’ Paradise

Nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Sankri is a picturesque Himalayan village and a gateway to some of the most breathtaking treks in India. Located at an altitude of 1,950 meters, this serene hamlet is surrounded by dense pine forests, snow-capped peaks, and the majestic Swargarohini range.

Sankri serves as the base camp for popular treks like Har Ki Dun, Bali Pass, Kedarkantha, Rupin Pass, and Phulara Ridge, making it a paradise for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. The village is known for its traditional wooden houses, warm hospitality, and stunning sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time explorer, Sankri offers the perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and local culture, making it an unforgettable starting point for Himalayan expeditions

Where is Sankri?

Sankri is a picturesque Himalayan village located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. Nestled at an altitude of 1,950 meters (6,400 feet), it lies within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and serves as the base camp for some of the most famous Himalayan treks, including Har Ki Dun, Bali Pass, Kedarkantha, and Rupin Pass.

How to Reach Sankri?

Nearest Airport to Sankri
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (200 km) – Closest Airport
From the airport, hire a private taxi or take a bus to Dehradun ISBT, then proceed to Sankri.
Travel time: 7–8 hours by road

Nearest Railway Station to Sankri 
Dehradun Railway Station (190 km) – Well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, and Mumbai.
After reaching Dehradun, take a bus or taxi to Sankri.
Travel time: 7–8 hours by road

Road Journey to Sankri 
The best way to reach Sankri is via road from Dehradun. The route offers scenic views of pine forests, rivers, and mountain valleys.
Route: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Purola → Mori → Sankri
Distance: 190 km
Travel Time: 7–8 hours

Transport Options to Sankri
By Bus: Direct Buses from Dehradun to Sankri (Morning at 6:00 AM & 8:00 AM from Dehradun ISBT).
Private/shared buses available till Purola/Mori, then take a shared taxi to Sankri.
By Taxi/Car: Private taxis available from Dehradun, Mussoorie, or Purola.
Self-drive option available, but be prepared for steep mountain roads.
By Shared Cabs: Shared taxis operate from Purola/Mori to Sankri (Limited availability).
Ideal for budget travelers.

Treks Starting from Sankri 

Sankri, a picturesque village in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, is known as the base camp for some of the most stunning Himalayan treks. Located at an altitude of 1,950 meters, Sankri serves as the gateway to the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and is surrounded by breathtaking peaks, dense pine forests, and glacial rivers.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy trek or an experienced mountaineer seeking high-altitude challenges, Sankri offers a variety of trekking options. Below is a detailed guide to the treks that start from Sankri, helping you choose the perfect adventure!

Har Ki Dun Trek – The Valley of Gods
Altitude: 3,566 m (11,700 ft)
Duration: 6–7 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Overview: Har Ki Dun, also called the “Valley of Gods”, is one of the most beautiful treks in the Garhwal Himalayas. The trail takes you through ancient villages, lush meadows, and dense pine forests, ending in a valley surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.

Why Choose Har Ki Dun?
Ideal for beginners and nature lovers with a gradual ascent.
Rich history and culture – Explore 3,000-year-old villages like Osla & Gangad.
Spectacular Himalayan views of Swargarohini Peak (6,252m).
Flora & fauna – Spot Himalayan monals, langurs, and even black bears in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring/Summer (March–June): Best time for blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear views and golden hues in the forests.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow-covered trails offer a magical experience.

Bali Pass Trek – A High-Altitude Crossover
Altitude: 4,950 m (16,207 ft)
Duration: 7–8 Days
Difficulty Level: Difficult

Overview: Bali Pass is a challenging high-altitude trek connecting the Har Ki Dun Valley to Yamunotri, offering spectacular views of the Swargarohini, Kala Nag, and Bandarpoonch peaks. This trek is ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a thrilling Himalayan adventure.

Why Choose Bali Pass?
A true adventure trek with glacier crossings, steep ascents, and thrilling ridges.
Unparalleled views of Himalayan giants like Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini.
Camping at Ruinsara Lake – A stunning high-altitude glacial lake.
Explore the untouched beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit: June, September to October – Best for clear skies and stable trekking conditions.

Kedarkantha Trek – The Best Winter Trek in India 
Altitude: 3,810 m (12,500 ft)
Duration: 4–5 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Overview: Kedarkantha is India’s most popular winter trek, famous for its snow-covered landscapes and panoramic Himalayan views. The summit offers 360° views of peaks like Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpoonch.

Why Choose Kedarkantha?
Perfect for beginners – Well-marked trails and moderate difficulty.
Incredible summit view – One of the best in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Best winter trek – Experience deep snow, frozen lakes, and magical forests.
Rich Garhwali culture – Stay in local homestays at Sankri & Juda Ka Talab.
Best Time to Visit: December to April – Peak winter trek with snow-covered trails.

Rupin Pass Trek – A Thrilling High-Altitude Crossover
Altitude: 4,650 m (15,250 ft)
Duration: 7–8 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult

Overview: The Rupin Pass Trek is one of the most exciting and scenic crossovers, connecting Uttarakhand to Himachal Pradesh. With varied landscapes, hanging villages, massive waterfalls, and snowfields, it is a must-do for adventure seekers.

Why Choose Rupin Pass?
Dramatic changes in landscapes – From green valleys to snowy ridges.
Rupin Waterfall – A stunning multi-tiered waterfall.
Cross into Himachal Pradesh – A true crossover trek.
Best for seasoned trekkers looking for high-altitude adventure.
Best Time to Visit: May–June & September–October – Best conditions with minimal snowfall.

Phulara Ridge Trek – A Unique Ridge Walk Experience
Altitude: 3,700 m (12,100 ft)
Duration: 5–6 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Overview: Phulara Ridge is one of the most unique treks in India, offering an uninterrupted ridge walk with 360° views of the Himalayas. Unlike traditional summit treks, this route follows a long, scenic ridge with continuous mountain views.

Why Choose Phulara Ridge?
Rare ridge walk experience – Walk along a mountain ridge for hours.
Less crowded alternative to Kedarkantha.
Diverse landscapes – From dense forests to open alpine meadows.
Incredible photography opportunities with endless Himalayan views.
Best Time to Visit: March–June & September–November – Ideal for clear skies and stable weather.

Dev Kyara Trek – The Hidden Gem of Garhwal
Altitude: 4,100 m (13,500 ft)
Duration: 6–7 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Overview: Dev Kyara is an offbeat trek featuring massive meadows, untouched valleys, and spectacular views of Swargarohini and Black Peak. It is perfect for trekkers looking for solitude and an unspoiled Himalayan experience.

Why Choose Dev Kyara?
Less-explored trek with peaceful and pristine landscapes.
Expansive meadows at Dev Kyara – Perfect for camping under the stars.
Diverse flora & fauna – Spot Himalayan birds and rare wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: May–June & September–October – Pleasant weather with clear views.

Best Time to Travel to Sankri 

Sankri, located in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, is the base camp for some of the most iconic Himalayan treks like Har Ki Dun, Kedarkantha, Bali Pass, and Rupin Pass. To make the most of your trekking experience, it’s essential to choose the right season for travel.

Each season in Sankri offers a different charm, from lush greenery in summer to snow-covered landscapes in winter. Below is a detailed guide on the best time to visit Sankri based on seasons and the type of trekking experience you’re looking for.

Best Time to Visit Sankri for Trekking
Summer (April-June) – Ideal for green meadows and clear trails.
Monsoon (July-August) – Risky due to landslides but lush landscapes.
Autumn (September-November) – Best for clear skies and colorful forests.
Winter (December-March) – Snow-covered trails, ideal for Kedarkantha Trek.

Stay & Local Experience in Sankri – The Base Camp for Trekkers’ Paradise

Sankri, a serene Himalayan village, is more than just a trekking base camp—it offers a deep cultural and local experience that makes every visit unforgettable. From cozy homestays run by warm-hearted villagers to authentic Garhwali cuisine, Sankri provides the perfect mix of adventure and hospitality. Whether you’re a trekker preparing for an expedition or a traveler seeking peace in the mountains, here’s a complete guide to stay options and local experiences in Sankri.

Sankri, a serene Himalayan village, is more than just a trekking base camp—it offers a deep cultural and local experience that makes every visit unforgettable. From cozy homestays run by warm-hearted villagers to authentic Garhwali cuisine, Sankri provides the perfect mix of adventure and hospitality. Whether you’re a trekker preparing for an expedition or a traveler seeking peace in the mountains, here’s a complete guide to stay options and local experiences in Sankri.

Homestays – The Best Way to Experience Local Life

Price Range: ₹800 – ₹2,500 per night
Best For: Authentic cultural experience, homemade food, interaction with locals

Homestays in Sankri offer traditional wooden houses with simple yet cozy rooms. Staying with a local family allows you to experience Garhwali hospitality, taste home-cooked meals, and learn about the history and traditions of the region.

Camping – Stay Under the Stars 

Price Range: ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 per night (with meals)
Best For: Adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts

Camping in Sankri is a unique experience where you can sleep under the stars, surrounded by the Himalayas. Many trek operators provide camping experiences, allowing travelers to stay close to nature.

Traditional Garhwali Food & Must-Try Dishes:
Aloo Ke Gutke – Spicy fried potatoes with local herbs
Mandua Roti – A healthy millet-based flatbread
Jhangora Kheer – A delicious sweet dish made from barnyard millet
Chainsoo & Kafuli – Traditional Garhwali lentil-based curries

Cultural Interactions & Village Walks

Best For: Learning about the lifestyle of mountain people

Sankri is a small, close-knit village where you can walk around and interact with the locals, farmers, and shepherds. Some highlights include:
Visit local temples like the Someshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Meet local artisans who craft beautiful woolen clothes and handmade wooden items.
Experience the Garhwali way of life – Learn how locals farm, cook, and live in harmony with nature.

Conclusion – Sankri: The Base Camp for Trekkers’ Paradise

Sankri is not just a place—it’s an experience that stays with you long after the trek is over. More than a gateway to Uttarakhand’s most breathtaking trails, it is a destination where adventure, nature, and culture merge seamlessly.

A Trekker’s Dreamland – Whether you’re conquering Kedarkantha’s snowy summit, exploring the mythological Har Ki Dun valley, or challenging yourself with Bali Pass, every trail from Sankri is a journey of discovery.

More Than a Base Camp – Beyond the treks, Sankri offers serene landscapes, star-lit skies, and the warmth of the mountain people, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers and solitude seekers.

A Place That Changes You – Every visit to Sankri leaves you with stories of adventure, friendships built on trails, and a deeper connection with the mountains.

Sankri is where journeys begin, challenges are embraced, and dreams touch the sky. Whether you come here for your first trek or your hundredth, you’ll always leave with a piece of the Himalayas in your heart.

Are you ready to explore Sankri? Your Himalayan adventure awaits!