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MAY 2018 | NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELLER INDIA 113
UTTARAKHAND
1 The moderately difficult trek leads to sweeping
vistas of the Nanda Devi, Maiktoli, Panwali Dwar
and Nanda Kot peaks. Here, a trekker watches the
setting sun with a local Bhutia dog for company.
Known for their strength and friendliness, these
adorable dogs often trek up all the way to the
glacier with travellers.
2 The trail passes through quaint Kumaoni
villages. Khati, the largest of them, is a cluster
of traditional stone houses on the banks of the
Pindar River. A common sight here are the rooftop
sit outs. Offering the best view of the snow-
capped peaks, this is where locals relax, hookahs
in hand.
3 The gushing waters of the Pindar River keep
trekkers constant company throughout the
journey. Stemming from the glacier, the river later
meets the Alaknanda—a major tributary of the
Ganga—at Karnaprayag.
4 At Dwali village, en route to the glacier,
locals provide hot tea and Maggi to weary
trekkers. When asked nicely, they can be
persuaded to share their hookah too.
4