Discover Satopanth Glacier: Planning for a High Altitude Trek?

The Satopanth Glacier is a popular destination for hikers in Uttarakhand. Its name, which means “Path of Truth,” comes from the fact that it is the origin glacier of the river Alaknanda near Badrinath temple. The Satopanth Expedition is an adventure trek that is accompanied by professional experts and includes proper acclimatization to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Satopanth Tal

Satopanth Tal is a crystal clear green water, the triangular lake at an elevation of 4600 meters above sea level and is adorned in the midst of the snow-shrouded peaks. Satopanth Tal is a high-altitude lake located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and near Badrinath Shrine.

Apart from religious significance Satopanth Glacier also become one of the Popular treks in Uttarakhand. This glacier trek offers majestic views of the Himalayas.

Satopanth Tal Trek

Only attempt the expedition to Sathopanth Peak if you have previous climbing expertise and are looking for a challenge. This difficult journey is only meant for trekkers who have completed a Basic Mountaineering Course and have climbed over 6000 meters.
It is essential not to underestimate the challenges of the Satopanth lake trek as they can be quite difficult. If you are not able to acclimate to high altitudes, then it is best to avoid the climb up to Satopanth Glacier.
in order to successfully complete this expedition, one must have experience with expeditionary tactics, trekking on glaciers, climbing steep snow slopes, and technical ridge experience. Furthermore, a high level of physical endurance is necessary to finish this expedition.

Day 1: Badrinath

Acclimatization: Spend the day exploring Badrinath. Visit the Badrinath Temple, walk to Mana village (4 km), and see Charan Paduka (3 km from Badrinath), believed to have Lord Vishnu’s footprints.

Day 2: Badrinath to Laxmivan

Trek: Begin early to cover 9 km in about 5 hours. Walk from Badrinath to Mana village, then cross the Alaknanda River. Continue past Vasudhara Falls and trek over moraine to reach the Laxmivan campsite, known for its grassy area.

Day 3: Laxmivan to Chakrateertha

Trek: The 7 km trek (4 hours) is scenic but challenging. Follow the Alaknanda River through moraine and grasslands, spotting Alpine flowers. Enjoy views of Sahasradhara and Mount Neelkanth. Arrive at the Chakrateertha campsite, a grassy flatland.

Day 4: Chakrateertha to Satopanth Tal and Back

Trek: A 10 km round trip (5 km each way) takes about 8 hours. Admire Mount Neelkanth and Chaukhamba, and visit Satopanth Tal, believed to be bathed in by deities. The path is steep and snowy, with a challenging final stretch.

Day 5: Chakrateertha to Badrinath

Return: Trek back to Mana (7 hours for 17 km) and then to Badrinath. If needed, hire a cab from Mana to Badrinath.

Day 6: Badrinath to Haridwar

Departure: Drive from Badrinath to Haridwar. Purchase souvenirs from Badrinath or Rishikesh before leaving Uttarakhand.

Satopanth Glacier Trek Cost

The cost of the trek is ₹25,950 per person + 5% GST, which does not include Badrinath, but does cover the 4 days of trekking from Satopanth and back.

Satopanth Trek Distance

Satopanth Glacier offers emerald blue-green waters of the triangular Satopanth Lake are crystal clear and situated at an astounding height of 4400-4600 meters (15100 feet).
The lake is 25 km from Badrinath shrine and about 4 km from Chakrateerth. This pristine lake is situated on the base of the legendary Neelkantha Peak.

Conclusion

The Satopanth Glacier is located in the Garhwal Himalayas, in the district of Rudraprayag of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at the head of the Gangotri Glacier, which is a popular destination for hikers and is a part of the Mandakini valley, which is the origin of the Alaknanda River.