Sankri, a small village in Uttarakhand, India, has become one of the most loved trekking bases in the Himalayas. Surrounded by pine forests, apple orchards, and the tall peaks of the Garhwal region, this tiny hamlet is the starting point of many famous treks. For beginners and experienced trekkers alike, Sankri offers a perfect mix of trails that move from deep forests to high meadows and finally to snow-covered mountains.

If you are planning your next Himalayan adventure, here are some of the best treks that begin from Sankri.

Why Choose Sankri as a Trekking Base?

• Easy Access: Sankri is about 200 km from Dehradun and can be reached by road.

• Beautiful Scenery: The village itself is surrounded by dense forests, rivers, and mountain views.

• Multiple Treks: From short 3–4 day treks to long 8–10 day journeys, Sankri is the starting point of many routes.

• Local Culture: It is home to warm and welcoming villagers who give you a taste of Garhwali life.

Famous Treks Starting from Sankri

1. Kedarkantha Trek

The Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular winter treks in India, starting from Sankri in Uttarakhand. Located at an altitude of about 12,500 ft, this trek usually takes 4–6 days to cover a distance of around 20 km. With moderate difficulty, it is considered perfect for beginners who want to experience snow trekking for the first time. The well-marked trail passes through pine and oak forests, frozen streams, and scenic clearings, making it a favorite choice among trekkers.

The highlight of the Kedarkantha Trek is the breathtaking summit climb that rewards trekkers with a 360-degree view of mountain ranges, including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak. Campsites like Juda Ka Talab and Hargaon add to the charm, with frozen lakes, starry skies, and open meadows creating a magical experience. Known as the best trek for winters, it is an ideal adventure for anyone seeking a mix of beauty, snow, and beginner-friendly trekking.

2. Har Ki Dun Trek

The Har Ki Dun Trek, often called the “Valley of Gods,” is a beautiful cradle-shaped valley in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The journey begins from Sankri and takes you through Taluka, dense deodar and pine forests, lush meadows, and traditional villages like Gangad and Osla. Steeped in mythology, it is believed that the Pandavas followed this route on their way to heaven, making it one of the oldest trekking trails in the Himalayas.

At an altitude of about 11,600 ft, the trek covers nearly 34 km and usually takes 4–5 days to complete. It is considered moderately difficult and is suitable even for beginners. Trekkers get to explore the rich biodiversity of the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, spot ancient temples, and enjoy stunning views of peaks such as Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Hata Peak. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural traditions, and legendary stories, Har Ki Dun is truly one of the most captivating treks starting from Sankri.

3. Bali Pass Trek

The Bali Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek that connects the Har Ki Dun Valley with Yamunotri. Situated at around 16,200 ft, this trek covers a distance of 60–65 km and usually takes 7–9 days to complete. Known for its tough climbs, narrow ridges, and demanding terrain, Bali Pass is not recommended for beginners but is perfect for trekkers seeking an advanced Himalayan adventure.

What makes this trek special is the opportunity to witness majestic peaks like Bandarpoonch, Kalanag (Black Peak), and Swargarohini up close. The trail passes through meadows, glacier crossings, and steep ascents, offering raw Himalayan beauty. Trekkers also experience cultural interactions in remote villages before reaching Yamunotri, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Bali Pass is a thrilling combination of natural landscapes, mythology, and adventure.

4. Borasu Pass Trek

The Borasu Pass Trek is one of the most adventurous trails starting from Sankri, linking Uttarakhand with Himachal Pradesh. At an altitude of 17,400 ft, the trek covers nearly 60 km and takes 7–9 days to finish. The route goes through Har Ki Dun and then deep into remote valleys before crossing the high-altitude Borasu Pass. It is considered a difficult trek and is best suited for experienced trekkers who enjoy long, challenging routes.

Trekkers on this route encounter diverse landscapes, from forests and river crossings to snow patches and glaciers. The trek also provides stunning views of Himalayan ranges while offering a chance to explore two different states in one journey. Borasu Pass stands out as a trail for true explorers who want a mix of culture, adventure, and the raw wilderness of the Himalayas.

5. Phulara Ridge Trek

The Phulara Ridge Trek is a rare ridge walk in the Himalayas, making it a unique experience among treks starting from Sankri. Sitting at an altitude of about 12,150 ft, the trek spans nearly 30 km and takes 5–6 days to complete. It is considered moderately easy, making it suitable for both beginners and intermediate trekkers. The ridge walk offers continuous mountain views, something not common in most treks.

The trail is filled with alpine meadows, pine forests, and stretches of wildflowers during spring and summer. On clear days, trekkers can see famous peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch while enjoying the calm atmosphere of the less-crowded route. Phulara Ridge is perfect for those who want a peaceful trekking experience with endless Himalayan views.

Best Time to Visit Sankri for Treks

• Winter (December–March): Best for snow treks like Kedarkantha.

• Summer (April–June): Ideal for Har Ki Dun and Phulara Ridge.

• Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, great for Bali Pass, Borasu Pass, and Har Ki Dun.

Tips for Trekkers

1. Physical Fitness: Prepare with basic cardio and strength training before your trek.

2. Pack Light: Carry only essentials – good shoes, warm clothes, and a sturdy backpack.

3. Acclimatize: Spend a day in Sankri to adjust to the altitude.

4. Travel in Groups: Safety is better in numbers, and guides are always recommended.

5. Respect Nature: Avoid littering, and keep the trails clean.

Conclusion

Sankri is more than just a village it is the gateway to some of the most epic Himalayan treks. From easy snow treks like Kedarkantha to challenging expeditions like Bali Pass, every trail offers something unique. Whether you are stepping into trekking for the first time or seeking your next big adventure, Sankri has a trail waiting for you.

If you are dreaming of forests, meadows, and snow-capped peaks, pack your bags and start your journey from Sankri.