Overview
Duration
8 Days 7 NightTour Type
Holiday TourLocation
Kumaon, UttarakhandRuinsara Lake Trek Overview
The Ruinsara Lake Trek is an offbeat Himalayan adventure in Uttarakhand, taking you deep into the remote landscapes of the Govind Pashu Vihar region. Starting from the Sankri side, the trail passes through traditional mountain settlements, dense forests, open meadows and the scenic Ruinsara Valley before reaching the pristine Ruinsara Tal.
The journey follows beautiful sections of the Supin valley and gradually moves into quieter, less-explored terrain. Along the way, trekkers encounter forests of deodar, oak and rhododendron, river crossings and expansive alpine meadows such as Devsu Thach.
Situated at roughly 3,500–3,600 metres, Ruinsara Tal is the centrepiece of the trek. The lake lies amid alpine pastures and rugged mountain scenery, with views towards impressive Himalayan ranges including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch and Kalanag (Black Peak) depending on weather and visibility.
The trek also offers an opportunity to experience the traditional lifestyle of remote Himalayan villages such as Osla and Seema, along with the changing landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas. Ruinsara Lake is regarded as a sacred lake by surrounding communities, adding a cultural and spiritual dimension to the journey.
For trekkers looking beyond conventional Himalayan routes, the Ruinsara Lake Trek combines remote valleys, alpine meadows, forests, glacial landscapes and spectacular mountain views into one memorable adventure.
Highlights - Ruinsara Lake Trek 8D/7N
- Trek deep into the remote Ruinsara Valley of Uttarakhand.
- Visit the beautiful high-altitude Ruinsara Tal.
- Reach an altitude of approximately 3,500–3,600 metres.
- Walk through dense forests of deodar, oak and rhododendron.
- Cross scenic streams and mountain rivers along the trail.
- Explore the vast alpine meadow of Devsu Thach.
- Pass through traditional Himalayan settlements including Osla and Seema.
- Enjoy dramatic views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch and Kalanag.
- Experience the peaceful landscapes of the Supin Valley.
- Camp amidst remote Himalayan meadows and mountain valleys.
- Discover the cultural and spiritual significance associated with Ruinsara Tal.
- Experience a quieter Himalayan trail away from heavily frequented trekking routes.
- Enjoy changing landscapes from dense forests to open alpine terrain.
- A rewarding trek for those looking for nature, wilderness, culture and high-altitude Himalayan scenery.
Itinerary
Depart from Bangalore
- Early Morning Start: Begin your journey from Dehradun towards Sankri, the gateway to the upcoming Himalayan trekking adventure.
- Reporting at Dehradun: Reach Dehradun Railway Station by 6:30 AM. Travellers coming from Delhi are advised to plan an overnight bus or train journey to Dehradun ISBT for a timely arrival.
- Mountain Drive: Enjoy the scenic drive through winding Himalayan roads, passing through beautiful valleys, forests and traditional mountain settlements.
- Arrival at Sankri: Reach Sankri after the 200 km journey and check into the guest house.
- Freshen Up & Relax: Take some time to freshen up and rest after the long drive.
- Explore the Local Market: Spend your free time exploring Sankri and getting familiar with the lively mountain village.
- Last-Minute Shopping: If required, pick up essential trekking equipment, warm clothing, garments or other supplies from the local market.
- Trek Briefing & Preparation: Organise your backpack and prepare all necessary gear for the trekking days ahead.
- Overnight Stay: Stay overnight at the guest house in Sankri and get ready for the adventure into the Ruinsara Valley.
Drive from Dehradun to Sankri – 200 km | 8–9 hours
- Morning Drive to Taluka: Begin the day with a 12 km scenic drive from Sankri to Taluka, the starting point of the trek.
- Trail Begins: From Taluka, start the 14 km trek towards Seema, following the beautiful mountain trail alongside the Supin River.
- Dense Himalayan Forests: Walk through lush forests filled with chestnut, walnut and chinar trees, creating a peaceful and shaded trekking environment.
- River-Side Trail: The route largely follows the right bank of the Supin River, with the sound of flowing water accompanying you along the trail.
- Wooden Bridge Crossings: Cross traditional wooden bridges over mountain streams and negotiate occasional climbs as the trail gradually progresses deeper into the valley.
- Scenic Surroundings: Enjoy views of forested slopes, flowing streams and remote Himalayan landscapes throughout the trek.
- Arrival at Seema: Reach Seema after completing the day's trek and settle in for a well-earned rest.
- Overnight Stay: Unwind at the campsite or accommodation and prepare for the next stage of the Ruinsara Lake adventure.
Drive from Sankri to Taluka – 12 km
Trek from Taluka to Seema – 14 km
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Day 3 – Seema to Waterfall Camp | Into the Upper Ruinsara Valley
Trek from Seema to Waterfall Camp
Morning Departure: After breakfast, leave Seema and continue deeper into the remote Himalayan valley.
Along the Valley: Follow the trail on the true right side of the valley, keeping the Tons River as a natural companion along the route.
Gradual Ascent: The trail climbs steadily through mountain fields, gaining height above the confluence of the Tons River and Ruinsara Gad.
Forest Trail: Enter beautiful forested sections where the peaceful surroundings and changing landscapes make the walk especially rewarding.
Kalanag Views: As the valley opens up, enjoy striking views of Kalanag (6,387 m) rising prominently ahead in the distance.
Mountain Scenery: Take in the surrounding ridges, dense forests and deep Himalayan valley as you progress towards the campsite.
Arrival at Waterfall Camp: Reach Waterfall Camp and settle beside the flowing stream, with a waterfall nearby creating a tranquil setting.
Evening at Camp: Relax, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and recover from the day's trek.
Overnight Stay: Spend the night camping at Waterfall Camp, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Himalayan wilderness.
- Morning Trek: Begin the day's journey after breakfast and continue ascending deeper into the remote Ruinsara Valley.
- Changing Landscapes: As you gain altitude, notice the transformation in vegetation, with pine and fir forests gradually giving way to birch and rhododendron-covered slopes.
- High-Altitude Trail: Follow the mountain path through open sections and alpine surroundings as the landscape becomes quieter and more rugged.
- First View of the Lake: Continue towards Ruinsara Lake, where the expansive alpine setting begins to unfold around you.
- Arrival at Ruinsara Lake: Reach the beautiful Ruinsara Lake, nestled amid open meadows and colourful rhododendron bushes.
- Sacred Surroundings: Spend some peaceful time beside the lake, which holds spiritual significance for the local communities.
- Explore the Landscape: Take in the surrounding mountains, meadows and pristine alpine environment while enjoying the tranquillity of this remote destination.
- Camp Near the Lake: Set up camp in the vicinity of Ruinsara Lake and unwind after the day's ascent.
- Overnight Stay: Spend the night near the lake, surrounded by the serene beauty of the high-altitude Himalayan landscape.
Trek from Waterfall Camp to Ruinsara Lake
- Relaxed Morning: Wake up to the peaceful alpine surroundings and enjoy a relaxed start to the day near Ruinsara Lake.
- Rest & Acclimatization: Use the day to rest, recover from the previous trekking days and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
- Explore Thanga Camp: For those interested in exploring, cross the river and visit Thanga Camp on the opposite bank, where the trail towards Bali Pass turns southwards.
- Wildlife Encounters: The surrounding wilderness offers opportunities to spot Himalayan wildlife. Keep a safe distance and remain alert for signs of Himalayan Brown Bears.
- Swargarohini & Black Peak Trail: Alternatively, take the eastward trail along the left bank of the river towards the base-camp areas of Swargarohini (6,252 m) and Black Peak (6,387 m).
- Dhumdhar Kandi Route: For experienced trekkers and depending on route conditions, the trail continues towards Dhumdhar Kandi Pass (5,490 m), connecting towards the Gangotri Valley.
- Glacial Landscapes: Spend time appreciating the surrounding glaciers, rugged mountain walls, alpine meadows and expansive Himalayan valleys.
- Evening at Camp: Return to camp, relax and enjoy the calm atmosphere around Ruinsara Lake.
- Overnight Stay: Spend another night camping near the lake, preparing for the onward journey.
Rest and Exploration Day at Ruinsara Lake
- Morning Departure: After breakfast, bid farewell to the serene surroundings of Ruinsara Lake and begin the return trek towards Seema.
- Long Descent: Cover approximately 17 km as you retrace the familiar trail, with most of the route following a gradual downhill gradient.
- Retracing the Valley: Walk back through the beautiful Ruinsara Valley, revisiting the forests, streams and mountain landscapes experienced earlier in the trek.
- Forest Section: The route includes a short but steep ascent through the forest, similar to the section encountered on the third day.
- Changing Scenery: As you lose altitude, notice the gradual change in vegetation and the return of denser forest landscapes.
- Steady Pace: Maintain a comfortable pace during the long descent and take suitable breaks along the way.
- Arrival at Seema: Reach Seema towards the end of the day after completing the 17 km trek.
- Rest & Recovery: Settle into the campsite or accommodation, relax your legs and recover after the demanding day's walk.
- Overnight Stay: Spend the night at Seema and prepare for the final stage of the Ruinsara Lake journey.
Trek from Ruinsara Lake to Seema – 17 km | 6–7 hours
- Early Morning Start: Begin the final trekking day early from Seema and follow the familiar trail towards Taluka.
- Return Trek: Cover approximately 14 km through the beautiful forested landscapes and mountain trails as you gradually make your way back to the roadhead.
- Scenic Descent: Enjoy the changing views of the valley, forests and surrounding mountains while retracing the route towards Taluka.
- Arrival at Taluka: Reach Taluka after completing the day's trek and take some time to freshen up and relax.
- Drive to Sankri: Board the waiting vehicle at Taluka for the 12 km drive back to Sankri.
- Arrival in Sankri: Reach Sankri and settle into your camp or guest house after completing the trekking section.
- Rest & Recovery: Relax, freshen up and enjoy a well-deserved evening after several days in the Himalayan wilderness.
- Overnight Stay: Spend the night at Sankri and prepare for the return journey the following day.
Trek from Seema to Taluka – 14 km
Drive from Taluka to Sankri – 12 km
- Early Morning Departure: Wake up early and prepare for the return journey from Sankri to Dehradun.
- Travel Options: Board an early morning bus or cab from Sankri towards Dehradun as per your onward travel plans.
- Mountain Drive: Enjoy the final views of the Himalayan valleys, forests and mountain villages as you leave Sankri behind.
- Journey Reflection: Look back on the memorable experiences of the Ruinsara Lake Trek, from remote forests and alpine meadows to the serene lake and surrounding peaks.
- Arrival in Dehradun: Continue your journey towards Dehradun, where the trek officially comes to an end.
- Trip Conclusion: Bid farewell to the mountains with unforgettable memories from your Ruinsara Lake adventure.
Return Journey from Sankri to Dehradun
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Inclusions - Ruinsara Lake Trek 8D/7N
Guide
Sightseeing
Forest Entry
Trekking
FOOD
Accommodation ( tents or dormitories )
Exclusions - Ruinsara Lake Trek 8D/7N
Medical Expenses
Any Kind Of Insurance
Things not mentioned in "INCLUSIONS"
Any Expenses
Sightseeing entry charges
Pick up location - Ruinsara Lake Trek 8D/7N
Things To Carry - Ruinsara Lake Trek 8D/7N
Clothing
- Thermal innerwear – top & bottom
- Warm fleece jacket / woollen sweater
- Waterproof & windproof jacket
- Comfortable trekkinag pants
- Quick-dry T-shirts
- Warm gloves & extra socks
- Woollen cap + sun cap
Footwear
- Sturdy, waterproof trekking shoes with good grip
- Comfortable sandals/slippers
- Extra pair of socks
Trek Essentials
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen & SPF lip balm
- Trekking poles
- 50–55L backpack with rain cover
- Raincoat/poncho
- Headlamp/torch with spare batteries
Personal Essentials
- Basic toiletries & quick-dry towel
- Personal medicines & basic first-aid
- Water bottle/hydration pack
- Energy snacks, nuts & energy bars
Other Must-Haves
- Mobile phone + power bank
- Camera + extra batteries
- Lightweight sleeping bag (optional)
- Small plastic/waterproof bags for wet clothes & waste
Policies
Terms And Conditions - Ruinsara Lake Trek 8D/7N
- To organize a trip we need at least 10/12 participants.
- If the minimum number of bookings is not met, we will offer an alternate trip or no refund.
- We have designated pick-up and drop points, make your own arrangements of transport to the desired pick-up point accordingly.
- Namma Trip is not responsible if any injuries or accidents occur during the event.
- Any client consuming alcohol, misbehaving, or causing delay during the event will be terminated from the event without any prior warning and no refund will be given. Such clients should arrange their own transport on the way back, Nammatrip does not hold the responsibility of terminated clients.
- Littering, smoking & consumption of alcohol are banned outdoors or anytime during the trek. We will provide you with a time and place to enjoy your drinks.
- In case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain activities may be cancelled and, in such cases, we will try to provide an alternate feasible activity. However, no refund will be provided for the same.
- If we cancel the event, we offer a full refund to all the participants.
- Our facilities are neat and basic, not luxurious
- Tickets once booked cannot be exchanged or refunded.
- We recommend that you arrive at least 20 minutes prior to the venue.
Cancellation Policy - Ruinsara Lake Trek 8D/7N
- 0–15 days prior: No refund; 100% of the cost will be charged.
- 15–30 days prior: 50% refund of the trek cost.
- Refunds will be processed within 5–7 working days.
- No refunds for cancellations due to unforeseen conditions or government restrictions
Important Notes - Ruinsara Lake Trek 8D/7N
Once your booking is confirmed and the minimum number of slots has filled [i.e, 10-12 people] for the trek, we will add you to a WhatsApp group on the departure date around 6-8 PM, where we will share all necessary updates and information related to the trek.
Vehicle will be arranged based on number of pax-
• 10–11 people: 12-seater Tempo Traveller
• 20 people: 22-seater Mini Bus
• 30 people: 30-seater Bus
FAQ's
Ruinsara Lake is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, within the wider Govind Pashu Vihar region. The trek is commonly approached from the Sankri–Taluka side.
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