If there’s one trek in the Indian Himalayas that feels like walking on the edge of the world, it’s the Phulara Ridge Trek. Nestled in Uttarakhand’s Sankri range, this unique trek offers a rare, uninterrupted ridgeline walk with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and dense forests teeming with birdlife. What truly sets it apart is its 4–5 hour-long ridge walk – a once-in-a-lifetime experience even among seasoned Himalayan trekkers. Unlike other treks that might offer brief ridge segments, Phulara lets you live that moment for an entire day.
What Is the Phulara Ridge Trek?
The Phulara Ridge Trek is a 6-day moderate trek in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarakhand, India. Starting from Sankri (the base village for popular treks like Kedarkantha and Har ki Dun), the route climbs through forests and meadows before reaching the highlight of the trek – Phulara Ridge, sitting at approximately 3,700 metres (12,150 ft).
Key Facts:
- Region: Sankri, Uttarakhand (Garhwal Himalayas)
- Maximum Altitude: 3,700 m / 12,150 ft
- Trek Duration: 6 Days
- Trek Distance: ~29–30 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Season: May–June and September–November
Why It’s Considered the Best Ridge Walk in the Himalayas
Unmatched Ridge Experience
Most Himalayan ridge treks feature short-lived ridge segments. Phulara is different – it offers an extended 4 to 5-hour ridge walk, where you walk along a knife-edge trail with panoramic views on either side. It’s a rare trek where the ridgeline is the star attraction, not just a connector.
Panoramic Mountain Views
The ridge offers 250–360° views of prominent peaks like:
- Swargarohini (I–IV)
- Bandarpoonch
- Kala Nag (Black Peak)
- Ranglana
- Kedarkantha
The sight of snow-capped peaks rising on either side while you walk a narrow crest is surreal.
Vibrant Meadows & Biodiversity
From Pushtara Bugyal to the forests of Sikolta and Bhoj Gadi, the trek transitions beautifully from:
- Dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests
- Alpine flower-filled meadows
- Open ridgelines with minimal human interference
Expect to see the Himalayan Monal, Barbet, and Whistling Thrush, among other species.
Offbeat and Peaceful
Despite its beauty, Phulara is still relatively unknown and uncrowded. Unlike the busy trails of Kedarkantha or Hampta Pass, this route offers solitude – a massive plus for nature lovers and trekkers looking for a quieter adventure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri
- Distance: ~200 km | Time: 8–10 hrs
- Beautiful drive through Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 2: Sankri to Sikolta
- Altitude Gain: 6,400 ft → 8,900 ft | Distance: 5 km
- A gradual uphill walk through oak and rhododendron forests.
Day 3: Sikolta to Bhoj Gadi
- Altitude Gain: 8,900 ft → 11,100 ft | Distance: 6 km
- Trail transitions to high-altitude vegetation. Campsite under open skies.
Day 4: Bhoj Gadi to Pushtara via Phulara Ridge
- Altitude: Up to 12,150 ft | Distance: 7 km
- Highlight of the trek. Walk the ridge with snow peaks on either side. Descend to the meadows of Pushtara.
Day 5: Pushtara to Taluka – Drive to Sankri
- Descent through pine forests, crossing mountain streams. A vehicle picks you up from Taluka for a drive back to Sankri.
Day 6: Sankri to Dehradun
- Return journey via the same route.
Best Time to Do the Trek
- Summer (May–June): Pleasant weather, blooming wildflowers, clear views.
- Autumn (Sept–Nov): Crisp skies, golden-brown meadows, and great light for photography.
- Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to slippery trails and leeches.
- Avoid peak winter (Dec–Feb) unless equipped for deep snow and sub-zero temperatures.
Preparation & Tips
Physical Fitness
While the trek is not technically challenging, a basic level of cardiovascular fitness and stamina is essential. Prepare with:
- Brisk walks/jogs: 4–5 km daily for 3 weeks
- Light strength training or stair climbs
Essentials to Carry
- Warm layers (down jacket, thermals, fleece)
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking shoes with good grip
- Trekking poles (very helpful for ridge descent)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and cap
- Basic first-aid kit and personal medication
Safety & Permits
- The trek lies within the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, so permits are mandatory.
- Forest entry, camping, and guide charges apply.
- Trekkers should also avoid plastic waste and follow the Leave No Trace principle.
How to Reach Sankri
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~220 km from Sankri)
- Train Station: Dehradun Railway Station
- From Dehradun: Shared jeeps and private taxis available to Sankri. Some trekking companies include transport in packages.
Trekking With or Without a Group
While Phulara can technically be done independently, it is strongly advised to go with a certified trek operator or local guide due to:
- Wildlife sanctuary regulations
- Trail navigational challenges, especially near the ridge
- Safety in case of altitude sickness or weather changes
Popular trekking operators include Indiahikes, Trek The Himalayas, Himalaya Shelter, and Bikat Adventures.
Summing Up
The Phulara Ridge Trek is not just another Himalayan trek – it’s a rare, immersive experience that brings together the thrill of high-altitude trekking, the serenity of flower-laden meadows, and the breathtaking magic of a long ridgeline walk. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first multi-day trek or a seasoned trekker craving something new, Phulara offers a story worth telling and a memory that will stay etched for life.
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking in the sky, this is the trek for you.
