Dhakuri Trek: My Best Himalayan Trip Ever!
Yo, want a chill Himalayan trek that’s not full of people? Let me tell you about Dhakuri Trek in Kumaon, Uttarakhand. It’s like a secret spot with jungles, open fields, cute villages, and a mind-blowing view from Chiltha Mata Temple at 3,300 meters. If you love nature and want some peace, this is the place!
What’s So Cool About Dhakuri?
Quick Details
- Start: Kathgodam (554m)
- Base: Dhoor village (2,200m)
- Top Spot: Chiltha Mata Temple (3,300m)
- Days: 4 nights, 5 days
- Toughness: Easy, even for newbies
- Distance: Around 22 k
Day 1: The Road to Dhoor – A Journey Through the Hills
The adventure began in Kathgodam, where I hopped into a sturdy jeep, my backpack stuffed with essentials and my heart buzzing with anticipation. The road to Dhoor was a winding ribbon through the Kumaon hills, and every turn felt like unwrapping a gift. Lush green slopes rolled out endlessly, dotted with pine trees and terraced fields. Passing through Bhimtal, I caught glimpses of the lake shimmering under the morning sun, its surface reflecting the sky like a mirror. Almora’s bustling little market flashed by, with vendors selling spicy chai and fresh fruits. The air streaming through the open window carried the scent of earth and pine, waking me up in a way no coffee ever could.
By late afternoon, I arrived in Dhoor, a quiet hamlet that felt like it was cradling the mountains. My homestay was a charming wooden house with colorful blankets and a creaky staircase that added to its charm. The hosts, a local couple with warm smiles, welcomed me like family. Dinner was a steaming plate of dal-chawal, the lentils rich and earthy, paired with a tangy pickle that made my taste buds dance. As we chatted, they shared stories of the mountains and gave me a detailed trek plan, pointing out the best spots for views. I stepped outside before bed, and the night sky was a blanket of stars—no city lights to dull their sparkle. I went to bed with a grin, dreaming of the trails ahead.
Day 2: Jungle Walk to Dhakuri – Nature’s Embrace
Waking up to the sound of roosters and the faint jingle of cowbells, I laced up my trekking boots, ready for the 4 km walk to Dhakuri. The trail started just behind the village, a narrow path diving into a dense forest. The air was cool, scented with moss and wildflowers, and the sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting golden patches on the ground. Rhododendrons bloomed in bursts of red and pink, and every few steps, I’d hear the flutter of wings or a bird’s sharp call—parakeets, maybe, or something more exotic. I felt like an explorer in a secret world, each turn revealing a new shade of green.
The trail was gentle, perfect for easing into the trek, and my legs found a steady rhythm. After a couple of hours, the trees parted, and there it was—Dhakuri at 2,800 meters. The view hit me like a wave: emerald meadows stretching wide, framed by jagged, snow-dusted peaks that seemed to touch the sky. The air was so crisp it stung my lungs in the best way. I checked into a small guesthouse, its walls adorned with faded photos of trekkers from years past. The caretaker handed me a steaming cup of chai, and I sat on a wooden bench outside, watching the mountains glow in the fading light. It was quiet, save for the occasional bleat of a goat or the whisper of wind. Time felt irrelevant here—like the world had paused just for me to soak it all in.
Day 3: Chiltha Mata Temple – A Sunrise to Remember
I woke before dawn, the air chilly and the sky still inky black. Today was the big one: a 10 km round-trip trek to Chiltha Mata Temple at 3,300 meters. With a flashlight in hand and a quick breakfast of parathas in my belly, I started the climb. The trail was steeper now, winding through rocky paths and patches of scrub. My breath puffed out in little clouds, but the effort kept me warm. As the first hints of dawn crept in, the horizon turned a soft pink, and I picked up my pace, eager to catch the sunrise.
When I reached the temple, the world stopped. The sun broke over the peaks, painting the sky in hues of gold, orange, and lavender. The mountains—some in India, some stretching into Nepal—stood like silent giants, their snowy caps glowing in the morning light. The temple itself was small, a simple stone structure adorned with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. It felt sacred, not just for its religious significance but for the sheer awe it inspired. I sat on a rock, catching my breath, and let the view sink into my soul. The vastness of it all made my worries feel tiny, insignificant. I whispered a quiet thank you to the universe before starting the descent, my heart full and my camera bursting with photos.
Day 4: Back to Loharkhet – A Reflective Farewell
The final day was a gentle walk back to Loharkhet, and I savored every moment. The trail took me through thick jungles, where the air was heavy with the scent of pine and damp earth. Sunlight dappled the path, and I spotted a family of langurs swinging through the trees, their chatter blending with the rustle of leaves. The valleys were quiet, save for the distant rush of a stream or the occasional call of a shepherd. It was the perfect backdrop for reflection. I thought about the past few days—the way the mountains seemed to breathe with me, the warmth of the locals, the peace of being so far from the grind.
As Loharkhet came into view, I felt a pang of sadness but also a deep gratitude. This trek wasn’t just a physical journey; it was a chance to reconnect with myself, to find joy in the simple things—like the crunch of leaves underfoot or the taste of chai after a long walk. I reached the village by afternoon, my legs tired but my spirit soaring. Sitting on a bench with a final view of the hills, I promised myself I’d be back. The mountains had given me something rare: a reminder of how beautiful life can be when you strip away the noise.
Why I’m Crazy About Dhakuri
- No Crowd: It’s so quiet, just you and the mountains.
- Easy-Peasy: Great for first-timers or even kids.
- Super Views: Snowy peaks, green valleys, total eye candy!
- Any Time’s Good: Spring’s got flowers, summer’s green, monsoon’s misty, autumn’s clear, winter’s snowy.
Best Time to Go
- March–April: Flowers everywhere, nice weather.
- May–June: Sunny skies, green vibes.
- July–August: Foggy and cool (pack a raincoat!).
- September–November: Clear views, perfect days.
- December–February: Snowy fun, cozy village nights.
Tips to Rock the Trek
- Get Comfy: Walk around the village first to feel okay with the height.
- Drink Water: Keep a bottle with you and sip a lot.
- Stay Warm: Nights are cold, even in summer.
- Rain Ready: Grab a raincoat for monsoon.
- Be Safe: Stick with a local guide who knows the way.
What to Pack
- Trekking shoes (good grip, no slipping!)
- Warm jacket for chilly nights
- Small backpack (30–40L)
- Torch for dark nights
- Water bottle (1–2L)
- Raincoat
- First-aid kit and your medicines
- Snacks like chikki or energy bars
Why Dhakuri’s So Special
Dhakuri’s not just a trek—it’s like the mountains give you a big jhappi! It’s so quiet, you can hear the wind and birds, not honking cars. The locals in Dhoor village treat you like family, sharing stories and hot chai by the fire. You’ll see shepherds with their goats, kids waving at you, and old wooden houses that feel like a step back in time. The Chiltha Mata Temple at the top? It’s not just the crazy 360-degree view of snowy peaks—it’s this peaceful vibe that makes you feel light and free. Whether you’re new to trekking or a pro, Dhakuri feels like your place. It’s like the mountains know you and call you back every time.
Let’s Go!
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