Panchachuli is a magnificent group of five snow-capped Himalayan peaks located in the eastern Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India, near the Darma Valley and Dugtu village. These peaks are named Panchachuli, meaning “Five Cooking Hearths” in reference to the legendary Pandava brothers’ last meal hearths in Hindu mythology. The Panchachuli peaks are a popular trekking and mountaineering destination, known for their breathtaking views and challenging terrain.
Height of Panchachuli Peaks
The Panchachuli peaks vary in height, ranging from approximately 6,312 meters (20,705 feet) to 6,904 meters (22,651 feet). The five individual peaks, numbered from northwest to southeast, are as follows:
- Panchachuli I: 6,355 meters (20,853 feet) – First ascended by ITBP in 1972
- Panchachuli II: 6,904 meters (22,651 feet) – The highest peak of the group, first ascended in 1973
- Panchachuli III: 6,312 meters (20,705 feet) – The lowest among the five peaks, with difficult climbing attempts
- Panchachuli IV: 6,334 meters (20,778 feet) – First climbed by a New Zealand expedition in 1995
- Panchachuli V: 6,437 meters (21,122 feet) – First ascended in 1992 by an Indo-British expedition
Panchachuli Base Camp Altitude
The Panchachuli Base Camp, serving as the main camping and acclimatization site for trekkers and mountaineers, is located at an elevation of approximately 4,260 meters (13,975 feet). The base camp offers spectacular views of the Panchachuli massif and serves as a gateway to higher trekking routes and climbing expeditions around the peaks.
Trekking and Climbing Highlights
The Panchachuli Base Camp trek covers around 40 to 60 kilometers one way, starting typically from the village of Darma or Dharchula. The trek passes through picturesque villages, alpine meadows, and dense forests, offering panoramic views of pristine rivers and snow-capped mountains along the way.
The highest of the peaks, Panchachuli II, holds special significance as the tallest summit in the range and is sought after by climbers due to its challenging routes and breathtaking ascents.
Summary
Panchachuli consists of five towering Himalayan peaks with heights ranging from 6,312 to 6,904 meters. The Panchachuli Base Camp, located at an altitude of about 4,260 meters, serves as the launching point for treks and expeditions to these peaks. The area offers a blend of spiritual, adventure, and natural experiences, making it a prized destination in the Kumaon Himalayas.