New Delhi: For thrill-seekers and dreamers alike, Uttarakhand has just flung open its doors to an epic adventure like no other. The state government has announced
that 83 breathtaking Himalayan peaks are now open for Indian mountaineers—completely free of charge. No more hefty fees holding you back from conquering those lofty summits that have whispered challenges to climbers for generations. This isn’t just news; it’s your cue to lace up those boots and chase the horizon. Whether you’re a seasoned peak-bagger or dipping your toes into high-altitude highs, these jagged beauties in the Garhwal and Kumaon regions promise heart-pounding ascents amid pristine wilderness.
Picture yourself gazing up at peaks that pierce the clouds, their icy flanks glittering under the sun. This move by Uttarakhand is set to ignite a wave of homegrown mountaineering, making the Himalayas more accessible than ever. It’s a golden opportunity for Indian adventurers to claim their slice of these legendary heights without the usual financial barriers getting in the way.
Uttarakhand opens 83 Himalayan peaks free for Indians
Uttarakhand’s Tourism Development Board, working hand-in-glove with the Forest Department, has notified these 83 peaks for mountaineering expeditions, all on the directives of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Spanning the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayan ranges, they soar between 5,700 metres and a dizzying 7,756 metres—perfect for everyone from intermediate climbers honing technical skills to pros tackling extreme routes.
Standouts include Kamet, India’s third-highest peak at 7,756 metres, revered for its remote majesty near the Indo-Tibetan border; Nanda Devi East, a technical marvel often paired with its taller twin; Chaukhamba’s formidable group with sheer granite faces; Trishul’s trident-like spires at over 7,000 metres; Shivling’s pyramid shape that’s a rite of passage for many; Satopanth, guarding sacred lakes; Changabang’s knife-edge ridges; Panchachuli’s five-pointed crown in Kumaon; and Neelkanth, steeped in mythology near the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. Previously restricted or fee-heavy, these summits charged Indians thousands in peak fees, camping charges, and environmental levies—but now, zero state fees apply for desi climbers, while foreigners still pay standard rates.
Exploring Himalayan peaks in Uttarakhand
1. Kamet (7,756m)
Perched in the remote Zaskar range near the Indo-Tibet border, this pyramid-shaped behemoth is Uttarakhand’s second-highest peak and a rite of passage for seasoned climbers. First summited by a British team in 1931, it demands multi-day glacier treks from Joshimath, crampon skills for icy ridges, and unwavering endurance against high winds. The reward? Jaw-dropping panoramas of Mana and Abi Gamin, plus the thrill of standing where few have.
2. Trishul (7,120m)
Named after Lord Shiva’s trident, this striking three-summited massif in Kumaon looms over the Roopkund trek, its sharp profile a constant companion. Pioneered by a British expedition in 1907, it calls for technical rock and ice climbing via Lwan Pass, with steep couloirs testing even experts. Approach from Almora or Lohajung, acclimatise amid alpine meadows, and summit for ethereal views of Nanda Ghunti.
3. Nanda Devi East (7,434m)
The accessible twin to the restricted Nanda Devi, this Garhwal giant rises dramatically from the Rishi Glacier in the UNESCO-listed sanctuary. First conquered in 1939, it offers a classic alpine route with mixed climbing—think seracs, crevasses, and fixed ropes from base camp near Dialkot. Start from Joshimath, navigate the punishing Rishi Nala gorge, and savour 360-degree Himalayan vistas.
4. Chaukhamba I (7,138m)
Meaning “four pillars,” this blocky massif guards the Gangotri Glacier’s eastern edge, its sheer faces a magnet for big-wall enthusiasts. Swiss-French climbers topped it in 1952 via the north ridge, blending glacier travel with steep ice. Trek from Gangotri, camp at Nala Camp, and push through technical sections for sweeping views of Bhagirathi peaks.
5. Shivling (6,543m)
Dubbed India’s Matterhorn, this pyramid lingam-shaped peak near Tapovan soars like a Shiva idol from the Gangotri snout. First ascended in 1975 by Indians, its routes mix rock, ice, and snow gullies, accessible via Gaumukh trek. From Gangotri, cross meadows to base camp, rope up for the final push amid stunning sunsets.
This free-peaks rush calls every Indian heart. Rope up rally mates and let Uttarakhand’s Himalayas etch your legend.
