Mayali Pass Trek is one of the most challenging and remote high-altitude treks in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. At an elevation of 5,300 meters (17,390 feet), this hidden gem was historically the preferred route for pilgrims traveling between Gangotri and Kedarnath. The trek spans approximately 90-100 kilometers over 10-12 days, making it suitable only for experienced trekkers with prior high-altitude experience. Located in the Bhilangana Valley, the trek offers spectacular views of prominent peaks including Thalay Sagar, Kedar Dome, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth. The route passes through dense forests, alpine meadows, remote villages, and pristine high-altitude lakes including Masar Tal and Vasuki Tal.
Key features and unique experiences
Complete journey time
Peak elevation
Stay arrangement
Challenge intensity
Travel: 183 km drive (8-9 hours) via Rishikesh. Experience the transition from the plains to the foothills as you reach the base village of Ghuttu.
Accommodation: 11 nights of stay in high-quality alpine tents (twin-sharing) and hotels/guest houses at base camps.
Meals: All nutritious vegetarian meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 11 breakfast, including high-altitude snacks and beverages.
Transportation: Pick-up and drop service from Dehradun/Rishikesh to the trek starting and ending points.
Permits: All necessary trekking permits, forest entry fees, and camping charges for the Uttarkashi and Rudraprayag forest divisions.
Technical Equipment: High-altitude sleeping bags (rated for -10°C), foam/insulated mattresses, gaiters, micro-spikes, and ropes for the pass crossing.
Professional Team: Certified experienced trek leader, local mountain guides, cook, and support staff.
Safety Gear: Comprehensive first-aid medical kit, emergency oxygen cylinders, and stretchers to handle high-altitude emergencies.
Common Luggage: Mules or porters to carry all common camping and kitchen equipment throughout the trek.
Transit Meals: Food during travel from Dehradun to the base camp (Ghuttu) and during the return journey from Gaurikund.
Personal Gear: Individual items such as trekking poles, high-ankle boots, rucksacks, and specialized clothing layers.
Backpack Offloading: Additional charges apply if you wish for a porter/mule to carry your personal rucksack (max 12kg).
Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, tips for staff, snacks, bottled water, or any soft drinks.
Emergency Costs: Any expense arising from unforeseen circumstances like landslides, road blocks, or bad weather requiring extra days.
Insurance & Medical: Personal travel insurance and any specialized medical evacuations or hospitalizations.
Permits for Electronics: Forest department fees for carrying professional still or video cameras.
Ideal seasons and weather conditions
Everything you need to know before booking
No, the Mayali Pass Trek is not safe for beginners. It is a technical expedition that requires prior experience of at least two week-long treks at altitudes ranging from 3,500m to 4,500m.
The trek typically takes 10-12 days to complete, covering a total distance of approximately 90-100 kilometers.
The highest point of the journey is the summit of Mayali Pass, situated at an elevation of 5,300 meters (17,390 feet).
The challenge lies in its technical terrain, which includes vertical boulder climbing, traversing the Khatling Glacier, navigating steep scree slopes, and managing unpredictable weather at high altitudes.
Yes, it is safe. Organized trek operators prioritize safety and provide shared tent accommodation with other female trekkers. Single occupancy tents can often be arranged upon request.
The ideal windows are Pre-Monsoon (May to June) and Post-Monsoon (September to October) when the skies are clear and the pass is accessible.
You need inner-line permits and forest department clearances. These are typically managed and included by the trek operator in your package.
Expedition teams carry comprehensive first aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and stretchers. They are trained in high-altitude sickness (AMS) management and emergency evacuation protocols.
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