Bajling Top Trek

I recently went on a day trek to Uttarakhand’s Pindari and Sunderdhunga valleys. While trekking, we learned about an exciting day hike from Khati village called “Pankhwa Top.” This trek leads to the highest point of the connecting ridge over Khati village. The estimated trail up to Pankhwa Top is around 12km one way, requiring overnight camping. We also contemplated hiking towards Bajling Dhar and camping there for the night. We were advised to begin early to avoid rains later in the morning and to carry extra water as there are no drinking water sources along the route.

Two well-known routes lead to Bajling Dhar from Khati, one involving retracing the trail through Kharkiya and another shorter but steeper trail over the forest ridge. We chose the second trial for its efficiency. With most members of the Pindari Team leaving for Almora, only a few of us were left for this trek.

We started early and followed a steep climb through a thick forest trail, consistently making progress. After climbing over 1200 feet, we had 850 more feet to go. The climb was tough, but shepherds and locals frequented the trail. We finally reached the first meadow, which offered breathtaking views. The weather started to worsen as clouds encircled the ridge, but we pushed on and eventually reached the meadows of Bajling Top.

From there, we enjoyed a magnificent valley panorama, observing Khati Village and the forest ridge that climbed up towards Pankhwa Top. We could also see the Nandabaner, Nandakot, and Laspadhura peaks. Afterwards, we descended and learned from our guide about hiking between Supi village and Bajling Dhar. He also recommended visiting Bajling Dhar in winter to witness the snowfall.