MILAM Glacier Trek – UTTARAKHAND

🏔️ MILAM GLACIER TREK – UTTARAKHAND

Region: Munsiyari → Lilam → Bogudiar → Rilkot → Martoli → Milam

Difficulty: Difficult

Duration: 9–10 Days

Max Altitude: ~4,200m

Price From: ₹18,000

⭐ Short Overview

Milam Glacier is one of the great long-distance Himalayan treks of Kumaon. It takes you deep into the Johar Valley — once a thriving trade route to Tibet — passing through abandoned villages, hanging gorges, and massive mountain walls.

The glacier sits below the majestic Trishuli (7,120m) and Hardeol (7,151m) peaks.
Long distances, isolation, and rugged terrain make this trek best suited for experienced trekkers with strong endurance.

1. Difficulty Breakdown

Overall Difficulty: Difficult

This is a long-distance Himalayan expedition requiring consistent stamina.

Major Challenges

• 10 days of continuous trekking

• Long 15–20 km days in parts

• High winds & cold environments

• Very remote terrain with limited exits

Trail Type

• Forest & gorge sections

• Wooden bridges

• Alpine meadows

• Long glacial valley

Fitness Requirement

• 7–8 hrs walking/day

• Prior multi-day trek experience strongly recommended

2. Day-Wise Full Itinerary

DAY 1 — Kathgodam → Munsiyari (Drive)

• 10–12 hrs scenic drive

• Overnight stay in Munsiyari

DAY 2 — Munsiyari → Lilam (Trek)

• Trek begins with a descent then gradual climb

• Trek Duration: 4–5 hrs

DAY 3 — Lilam → Bogudiar

• Narrow gorge walk

• Forest & river crossings

• Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs

DAY 4 — Bogudiar → Rilkot

• Transition to alpine terrain

• First views of Panchachuli massif

• Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs

DAY 5 — Rilkot → Martoli

• Trek to the historic, now-abandoned Martoli village

• Incredible views of Nanda Devi East region

• Trek Duration: 4–5 hrs

DAY 6 — Martoli → Milam Base

• Walk along a broad glacial valley

• Beautiful Himalayan walls rising on both sides

• Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs

DAY 7 — Milam → Milam Glacier (Zero Point) → Return

• Visit the glacier viewpoint

• Massive icefall & glacial basin

• Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs

DAY 8 — Milam → Rilkot

• Start the return journey

• Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs

DAY 9 — Rilkot → Bogudiar → Lilam

• Long descent day

DAY 10 — Lilam → Munsiyari → Kathgodam

• Trek + long drive

• Trek ends

3. Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

• Tents / homestays

• All trek meals

• Certified guide + support staff

• Forest & trek permits

Exclusions

• Transport to/from Kathgodam

• Porter/mule charges

• Gear rental

• Anything not listed

4. Stay & Food

Stay

• Homestays in villages

• Tents in alpine sections

Food

• Hot vegetarian meals

• Tea/snacks

• Packed lunch for long days

5. Weather & Safety

Weather

• May–June: Spring conditions, snow patches

• Sept–Oct: Best clarity, stable weather

Safety Notes

• Beware of rockfall zones in gorges

• High winds common in Milam valley

• Remote route — no quick exit

6. Best Time

• May–June

• September–October

7. Packing List

Mandatory

• Trekking shoes

• Down jacket & warm layers

• Rain/windproof shell

• Headlamp

• Sunglasses

• Water bottles

Optional

• Trekking poles

• Gaiters

• Power bank

8. FAQs

Q. Is Milam Glacier for beginners?
No — long distances + isolation make it difficult.

Q. Highlights of the trek?
Johar Valley, Martoli ruins, glacier basin, views of Trishuli & Hardeol.

Q. Network?
None beyond Munsiyari.

Ready for one of the most historic and rewarding glacier expeditions in the Himalayas?