National_Geographic_Traveller_India-May_2018

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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