Satopanth Lake and Swargarohini Steps Adventure Trek on a Shoestring Budget
In the heart of Garhwal Himalayas, Satopanth Lake and the mythical Swargarohini Steps is one of those ultimate hiking destinations. There, adventure seekers will find this serene, thrilling, and mythical journey to be among nature's best. Every minute detail about Satopanth Lake and the Swargarohini Steps will be covered, giving you a good idea to prepare for an unforgettable, no-budget-hike into these places.
Overview of Satopanth Lake and Swargarohini Steps
Satopanth Lake
Satopanth Lake is a serene glacial lake at an altitude of 4,600 meters or 15,091 feet. It is surrounded by the highest peaks in the world, like Neelkanth, Satopanth, and Balakun. "Satopanth" means literally "Path of Truth." This is the said abode where Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva meditated.
Swargarohini Steps
Swargarohini Steps is another mythological destination on the higher stretch of the trail. Indian mythology claims that the route was taken by Pandavas of Mahabharata to heaven. Although trek to reach the steps is quite challenging, the spiritual energy and scenic view makes it all worthwhile.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to take on this trip is during the month between May and mid-October. It is during June to September that the period peaks with relatively stable weather, besides which the tracks open. Of course, it will do to check out on local weather forecasts because conditions within the Himalayas can get out of hand in no time.
Base Access
Stage 1: Proceed to Haridwar or Rishikesh
Most of the treks in Garhwal are taken off from Haridwar and Rishikesh, both of which are well connected by trains and buses.
By Train: Direct trains from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata to Haridwar.
By Bus: Overnight Volvo buses from Delhi to Rishikesh.
Budget Tip: Travel by sleeper-class train tickets or government buses for lowest fare travel.
Step 2: Joshimath
Joshimath is the take-off point for the trek.
By Bus: ₹400-₹500 per person.
By Shared Taxi: ₹700-₹1,000.
Travel Time: 8–10 hours.
Step 3: Joshimath to Mana Village
Mana is the last village on the Indo-Tibetan border. It is the starting point of the trek.
By Shared Jeep: ₹200-₹300 per person.
Travel Time: 1–2 hours.
Itinerary of the Trek
Day 1: Mana Village to Laxmi Van
Distance: 8 km
Time: 5–6 hours
Elevation: 3,310 meters
Begin your trek from Mana Village, crossing Vasudhara Falls. The trek is moderately steep but achievable. Laxmi Van is a quiet campsite with birch trees all around.
Budget Tip: Carry your camping gear to avoid taking tents on rent, which costs ₹500-₹700 per night.
Day 2: Laxmi Van to Chakratirtha
Distance: 10 km
Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude: 4,200 meters
This stretch is tiring with steep ascents and stony terrain. Chakratirtha is a beautiful grassy land covered with snow-covered peaks.
Trek Tip: Do carry trekking poles because it reduces pressure on your knees.
Day 3: Chakratirtha to Satopanth Lake
5 km
4–5 hours
4,600 meters
The final stretch to Satopanth Lake is a moraine and boulder walk. The beauty of the lake is very serene, and it's a good place for meditation or thought.
Budget Tip: Cook your own meals at the campsite instead of hiring a guide-cum-cook that will cost you ₹1,500 per day.
Day 4: Satopanth Lake to Swargarohini Steps (Optional)
Distance: 3 km (one way)
Time: 5–6 hours
This route is strictly for experienced trekkers, as it involves steep ascents on loose scree. The mystical Swargarohini Steps will leave you breathless with their beauty and historical significance.
Day 5: Return to Mana Village
Retrace the same to Mana Village, and spend the night at Chakratirtha or Laxmi Van to avoid over-exertion.
Budget Break-up
Packing Must-haves
1. Clothing:
Thermal base layers
Waterproof jacket and pants
Woolen gloves and socks
Comfortable trekking shoes
2. Camping Gear:
Lightweight tent
Sleeping bag with a rating of -10°C
Portable stove and utensils
3. Food & Snacks:
Instant noodles, energy bars, and dry fruits.
4. Medical Kit:
High-altitude sickness tablets, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers
5. Other Essentials:
Trekking poles
Power bank
Torch with spare batteries
Budget Suggestion: Use the camping gear from your friends or take locally in Joshimath to save extra expenditure.
Trekking on a Budget
1. Group It: When you are trekking in a group you can divide the cost for guides, porters, and shared transportation.
2. Self-Cooking: Carry portable cooking equipment along with raw ingredients rather than relying on packaged food.
3. Local Transport: Always avail government buses and shared jeeps to save the maximum.
4. Negotiate Rentals: Bargain while renting equipment at Joshimath or Mana Village.
Safety Instructions
1. Acclimatize Well: Spend one day at Joshimath to acclimatize at the elevation.
2. Hydrate Well: Drink at least 3–4 liters of water in a day to avoid altitude sickness.
3. Hire Local Guide: Expensive, yes; a guide is required to handle difficult terrain and to be culturally savvy in the locality.
4. Be Ready for the Weather: Carry rain gear and an emergency blanket always.
5. Leave No Trace: Do not litter and try to have a minimum ecological footprint.
Conclusion
The trek is beautiful in the light of spiritual value. Locals feel that Satopanth Lake is a sacred place, where holy trinity resides, while Swargarohini is the "Stairway to Heaven." These stories add a mystical feel to the journey, thus making it soulful.
It is an adventure to Satopanth Lake and Swargarohini Steps. The trek is life-changing with a mix of natural beauty, difficult trails, and spiritual importance. Proper planning and budgeting can take this trek without burning a hole in your pocket. Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and take this unforgettable journey to the abode of gods and legends.
0 Comments