Day 6…
Trek Day 5. 11.05.2023. Panchchuli Glacier Trek, Duktu Valley. Naagling Valley.
Today’s Trek was to see Panchchuli Glacier, a climb from Duktu Valley. I was not very excited about it as I was burnt out the previous day and I wanted to take it easy this day. Since the previous day’s trek to Snout was very tiring many of them were backing of from this trek. But in the last moment, I was excited to go and wanted to go my pace till whatever distance I could trek. It was a good decision. I didn’t want to not try altogether after going that far.
2 groups were formed, one to trek to the see the Panchchuli Glacier, the other towards our downward journey from the mountains to our next destination and stay at Naagling.
I was the last one in the line of trekkers, Bhanu sir was coming back as he did not want to go further and I felt relieved to not to continue and decided to relax there and head back to the Valley.
It was indeed a good decision. Went back to Dhatu valley and rested at Dharamsingh’s Teashop and rest area. We chatted for some time, had Chai, bought couple of thing, his wife Shanti was also there. Very sweet people. I was feeling tired as I was coming down with a cold and headache, they let me take a nap in their homestay. Also had lunch with them. It was simple rice and curry with curd and cucumber. Simple but satisfied the hunger while waiting for the others to come back from their trek.
Then we headed towards Naagling, leaving behind Panchuli Ranges. Bye for now, I thought, will surely come back as I am smitten by the magnanimity of the Himalayan Mountain ranges.
Drive to Naagling was 45 minute’s drive. It was very nice and pleasant drive. Reached at around 4 pm. Had some lunch. Stay was arranged in Dasarathi’s homestay. Very cozy place with lots of blankets although it was not as cold as Dantu. It was a cottage with Jharokha, a courtyard and comfortable washrooms. Peaceful retreat.
Then walked around the Village. There were more houses around this village than the others that we had seen. More people also had moved to their houses and staying, with more cattle’s around, some of them ploughing their land to sow something, like one guy we asked what he was sowing and he said potatoes. Children playing and running around. Was a lively village. The stay was also comfortable as it was less cold, we had more blankets. It was the last day in the mountains. Looked like we were the first visitors of the summer season to the valley.
Tea and Pakoras were for snacks. Had pakoras made with Bhang leaves, its Cannabis, first time trying this. Saw a cooking session made with a kind of leaf which is very typical of the mountain regions. Then the whole group was assembled and sat down for a chat. To discuss one’s experience about the trek/ trip and about next day’s program.
Everyone as per their turn spoke how they felt and what their individual experience was… interesting to note everyone’s thoughts on the trek… couple of things that registered in my mind was… although there were difficulties, everyone had a good time, a memorable takeaway. Trek was little difficult but with help and to our own capabilities, everyone did their bit to push to our maximum limits with each other’s encouragement. There was a great team effort from the organizer’s part which was noticed by everyone, as to how they handled certain difficult decisions which was made inconsideration with our safety and wellbeing.
Over the dinner, the next day’s plan was discussed. Got to taste the wine/ liquor made there.
