Overview
Khait Parvat is a quiet and lesser-known trek located in the upper region of Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. It is an ideal option for people looking for a short Himalayan hike near Rishikesh that can be completed over a weekend. The trek does not require long travel days or technical climbing, which makes it suitable for beginners and people with limited time.
The journey itself is enjoyable. The drive passes through small villages, forest trails and open views of Tehri Lake, making the travel as memorable as the trek. Khait Parvat is not just about views, it is also about belief and the way local communities connect with their land.
Also known as the Land of Fairies
Khait Parvat is locally known for “Aachari and Bharani”, which means Land of Fairies. This name comes from long-standing local beliefs passed down through generations. Villagers from nearby areas believe that fairies live in the upper forest sections of this mountain.
According to locals, the mountain holds a strong spiritual presence. Shepherds who spent nights in the forest often speak about hearing unfamiliar sounds or seeing faint moving lights after sunset. These stories are not told to scare people but to explain why the mountain should be treated with respect.
Another common belief is that the fairies protect the forest and do not like loud noise or careless behaviour. Because of this, locals avoid shouting, playing loud music or disturbing the area unnecessarily. Visitors are advised to follow the same approach walk calmly, respect the forest and leave no waste behind.
Itinerary
Drive Distance: 76 km; 3-4 hrs
The journey begins early from Rishikesh. Starting early helps avoid traffic and allows you to enjoy the drive. The route moves through Tehri Garhwal, passing towns like Chamba and skirting the edges of Tehri Lake.
We will have our night stay in Tehri.
Drive Distance: 83 Km (Tehri to Musankiri) + 75 km (Rishikesh Return)
Trek Distance: 26 km
The trek starts after breakfast. After crossing the Tehri Dam and entering the Bhilangana Valley, the road becomes quieter. The final stretch passes through narrow village roads.
Musankiri Village is a small and peaceful settlement where life moves slowly. The trail gradually climbs through That village with pine and deodar forests. The path is mostly clear, though some sections are slightly steep for short distances.
It usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the main open area of Khait Parvat. As you gain height, views of the Bhagirathi Valley start opening up.
At the top, there is an open patch where people usually stop and rest. Locals often share stories related to fairies and Jeetu Bagdwal at this spot. Many trekkers prefer to sit quietly here for some time before heading back.
After spending time at the top, the group descends the same route and starts the return journey to Rishikesh.
Inclusion and Exclusion
Price Inclusion
Transport: Transport from Rishikesh
Stay: Night stay in Tehri on Day 1 (Triple Sharing)
Meal: Dinner, Breakfast, and Lunch
Forest Entry and Permits: All required fuel charges, tolls, forest entry fees, and permits are covered.
Guide: A qualified guide will accompany you.
Emergency Kit: First aid medical kits are provided for safety.
Price Exclusion
Emergency Evacuations: Any charges related to emergency evacuation are not included
Personal Expenses: Any meals or accommodations outside of the provided itinerary or additional services not listed in the inclusions.
5% GST
Check the booking procedure, including details on booking deposits, payment terms, and the cancellation policy.
Khait Parvat Trek-Location & Region
Khait Parvat is located in Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand. The trek begins from Musankiri Village, situated in the Bhilangana Valley.
This is why the trail still feels quiet and natural.
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Total Trail Length: approx. 4–5 km (one side)
- Trek Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours (one side)
- Maximum Altitude: 2,711 meters
Folklore
Khait Parvat is also deeply linked to the story of Jeetu Bagdwal, a well-known folk figure from the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. His story is still sung, narrated and remembered in villages around Tehri, Uttarkashi and the Bhilangana valley.
He is believed to have lived several centuries ago and was known for his bravery, simplicity and deep connection with the land.
According to oral traditions:
Jeetu was a young man from a farming family. He was sent to get her sister (Sobhani) so that she could commence the field work, as it’s considered auspicious. He was handsome, fond of the flute, and was really great at it. During this journey, he reached the forested region around Khait Parvat. Rested there and played flute. This area was believed to be the land of forest spirits or fairies, known locally as Aachri. They were enchanted by his flute and wanted him to come with them to their realm. Jeetu requested that he have a few pending works which he needs to complete as his mother is waiting.
Aachri agreed and let him go on the condition that as soon as his work is complete, they will take him with them. After a few days, he reached his home and completed all the field work with his mother and sisters. And that very moment, he was taken away.
There is no single version of the story. But every version ends the same way: Jeetu is taken away by Aachri. You can listen to song related to Jeet Bagdwal here, here and here.
Jeetu and Aachri are important folk of the Garhwali culture. Many Garhwali folk songs can be found on this incident. In current times, Jeetu Bagdwal is worshipped as a local deity in many villages.
In the Garhwali culture, young unmarried males are not allowed to go to high mountains wearing bright clothes. It’s also strictly restricted from making noises, whistling, and polluting the forest. Belief is that fairies will take young ones to their realm. Hence, mothers take extra care.
Things to Carry
- Sleeping Bag
- Common Tent
- Mattress
- Dining Tent
- Camping Stool
- Walkie Talkie (For Team)
- Utensils
1. Clothing
- Outer Layer: 1 Down Jacket (Winter)
- Gloves: (Winter)
- Headwear: 1 Warm Hat + 1 Scarf/Balaclava (Winter)
- Sun Hat: 1 (Summer)
2. Footwear
- Hiking Shoe
3. Backpack & Trekking Gear
- Daypack: 1 (For day-hike)
- Trekking Poles/Sticks: 1 pair
6. Health & Hygiene
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen
- Lip Balm: 1
- Snacks: Energy bars, dry fruits, chocolates
7. Accessories
- Bottle/Bladder: 1
- Sunglasses: 1 (UV-protected and polarized)
How to reach Khait Parvat?
By Road
Khait Parvat is well connected by road. You can drive from Rishikesh or Dehradun towards Tehri and then continue towards Musankiri Village. Roads are mostly in good condition, though some sections are narrow.
Shared taxis and buses are available up to nearby towns, after which local transport can be arranged.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, approximately 120 km away. From the airport, taxis and shared vehicles are available via Rishikesh.
By Train
The nearest railway stations are Rishikesh and Haridwar, located around 110–130 km from the base area. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus towards Tehri and then continue to the village.
The nearest major railway stations are Haridwar and Rishikesh. From these stations, one can take a taxi or board a bus to Rudraprayag or Ukhimath. The road journey from Rishikesh to Chopta takes around 8 to 9 hours. Regular buses are available to Rudraprayag and limited services to Ukhimath. From Ukhimath, which is about 30 kilometers from Chopta, shared jeeps or private taxis can take you to the base.
If you’re planning to travel by car, it’s better to leave early in the morning and aim to reach Chopta by the afternoon. Ukhimath is the last town with ATM facilities and petrol pumps, so it’s a good place to stop and refuel or withdraw cash. Roads beyond Rudraprayag are narrow but manageable. It is wise to carry enough fuel, cash, and warm clothes.
From Rishikesh take a bus to Karanprayag and from there change buses for Tharali. Tharali is connected to Loahjung and local taxis are available. Alternatively, you can also reach Lohajung via Haldwani. From Haldwani, take a bus to Tharali and from Tharali take a taxi to Lohajung.
Best Time to Visit
- March to June: Pleasant weather, clear trails and comfortable temperatures
- October to early December: Cold but clear skies, which are suitable for trekking
The monsoon season is avoided due to slippery forest trails. Winter trekking is possible only when snowfall is light.
The nearest major railway stations are Haridwar and Rishikesh. From these stations, one can take a taxi or board a bus to Rudraprayag or Ukhimath. The road journey from Rishikesh to Chopta takes around 8 to 9 hours. Regular buses are available to Rudraprayag and limited services to Ukhimath. From Ukhimath, which is about 30 kilometers from Chopta, shared jeeps or private taxis can take you to the base.
If you’re planning to travel by car, it’s better to leave early in the morning and aim to reach Chopta by the afternoon. Ukhimath is the last town with ATM facilities and petrol pumps, so it’s a good place to stop and refuel or withdraw cash. Roads beyond Rudraprayag are narrow but manageable. It is wise to carry enough fuel, cash, and warm clothes.
From Rishikesh take a bus to Karanprayag and from there change buses for Tharali. Tharali is connected to Loahjung and local taxis are available. Alternatively, you can also reach Lohajung via Haldwani. From Haldwani, take a bus to Tharali and from Tharali take a taxi to Lohajung.
Map and Weather
Nearby Attraction to Visit
- Tehri Lake: Known for calm views and quiet surroundings
- Chamba: A small hill town with local markets
- Budha Kedar
FAQs
Yes, it is a short and manageable trek.
A local guide is recommended to understand the trail and local beliefs.
Camping options are limited. Most stays are in villages or homestays.
No, Khait Parvat remains quiet and offbeat.
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