Hidden between a crown of snow-capped peaks at an elevation of approximately 15,000 feet (4,572 meters), Khatling Glacier is one of the most spectacular and sacred glaciers in the Garhwal Himalayas. Located in Tehri Garhwal district, this glacier is considered holy by the local Garhwali community and serves as the source of the Bhilangana River.
Why Khatling Glacier is Special
Unlike more commercialized treks, Khatling remains a genuine wilderness experience. The glacier is surrounded by dramatic moraines — walls of gravel and rocky debris deposited by glacial movement — giving the landscape an otherworldly, almost Martian quality. The views of peaks like Jogin group, Kirti Stambh, Thalaysagar, and Meru from the glacier are among the finest in Uttarakhand.
Khatling Glacier Trek Itinerary (7 Days)
- Day 1: Ghuttu (2,000 m) → Reeh (2,500 m) — 12 km
- Day 2: Reeh → Gangi (3,200 m) — 14 km
- Day 3: Gangi → Bhelbagi (3,600 m) — 8 km
- Day 4: Bhelbagi → Khatling Glacier Base (4,000 m) — 10 km
- Day 5: Glacier exploration and acclimatization
- Day 6: Return to Gangi
- Day 7: Gangi → Ghuttu
Permits & Regulations
A forest entry permit is required for trekking into the Khatling Glacier area. Permits can be obtained from the Forest Department office in Tehri or through registered trek operators. It is mandatory to trek with a registered local guide for high-altitude sections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. Khatling Glacier is a moderate-to-difficult high-altitude trek requiring good physical fitness and prior trekking experience. Beginners should start with Nag Tibba and work up to Khatling.
The trek is accessible from mid-May to mid-June and again from September to early October. The glacier remains snowbound and inaccessible during winter months.
Start your Khatling trek adventure from Clemora Estate, New Tehri — we help organize local guides and logistics.
