Kafni Glacier
A quieter alternative to the nearby Pindari Glacier trek, sharing the same approach through Dhakuri and Khati before branching to a different glacier valley.
Independent trail reference · Check permit and route verification below
At a glance
Catalogue values may vary by route. Confirm distances, access and seasonal conditions before travel.
Kafni Glacier Trek Overview
A quieter alternative to the nearby Pindari Glacier trek, sharing the same approach through Dhakuri and Khati before branching to a different glacier valley.
Distance, route & access
Distances depend on route variant and may not include road transfers.
Recorded start: Song / Khati · Estimated trip duration: 6 days. Confirm the current walkable route and travel conditions locally before departure.
Interactive location map
Open in Google Maps ↗Map location is based on the catalogued base village or trail location. It is a planning aid, not a GPS-verified trail track; confirm the current trailhead locally before setting out.
Elevation information
Catalogue altitude reference
This is a catalogue figure without a route-specific linked elevation source. It is not a verified GPS maximum, starting altitude or total ascent.
A measured walking-route profile is not available. Have a reliable published route or GPX file? Send a correction or source.
Kafni Glacier Trek Planning Guide
Kafni Glacier is a moderate trek in Kumaon, Uttarakhand, Uttarakhand. Panth records the route as approximately 38 km over 6 days, reaching a maximum elevation of 12,700 ft. These facts help trekkers compare this route with other trails in India before planning a trip.
Best time to trek Kafni Glacier
The Panth catalogue currently lists May, Jun, Sep, Oct as the best months for this trail. Seasonal conditions can vary considerably by altitude and year, so use this as a planning window rather than a guarantee. Check recent local weather, access restrictions and trail reports before travelling.
Route and itinerary
The current Panth itinerary contains 3 planned days, including Song to Dhakuri to Khati and Khati to Khati Khal. The route information on this page is based on the current Panth record; where a route detail is missing or marked unverified, do not treat the page as a substitute for an official trail map or local guide.
Permits, access and logistics
No advance permit is recorded; local fees or permissions may still apply. The recorded base location is Song / Khati, and the nearest listed rail connection is Kathgodam, then a road journey to Song via Bageshwar. Permit rules, forest access, road conditions and local entry requirements can change, particularly in protected and border areas.
Difficulty and preparation
A moderate rating is a comparison signal, not a guarantee of difficulty for every person. Consider distance, elevation, elevation gain, weather and your own experience before choosing Kafni Glacier. At high altitude, acclimatization and conservative pacing matter as much as general fitness.
Safety and responsible trekking
Current Panth notes highlight 2 planning considerations, including Trail is less trafficked than Pindari, so trail conditions can be rougher in places — check current status with the Forest Department post at Khati and Standard glacier-trek cold-weather precautions apply at the high camp. The current packing notes include Standard three-season trekking kit, Water purification. Carry appropriate clothing, navigation tools, water and emergency essentials for the conditions. Follow local Forest Department or park rules, avoid littering, respect wildlife and communities, and do not rely on an old online permit or access statement.
Explore more treks in Uttarakhand
Use the regional and related-trail links on this page to compare Kafni Glacier with other Indian trekking routes by difficulty, duration, altitude and season. This makes Panth useful both for people who already know the trail they want and for trekkers still deciding where to go.
Day-by-day itinerary
Shared approach with the Pindari route through the Pindar valley's main village.
Branch off the Pindari route toward the Kafni valley.
Push to the glacier viewpoint, then return the same day.
Safety notes
- Trail is less trafficked than Pindari, so trail conditions can be rougher in places — check current status with the Forest Department post at Khati
- Standard glacier-trek cold-weather precautions apply at the high camp
What to pack
- Standard three-season trekking kit
- Water purification
Frequently asked questions about Kafni Glacier
Where is Kafni Glacier located?
Kafni Glacier is listed in Kumaon, Uttarakhand, within the Uttarakhand trekking area.
What is the difficulty of the Kafni Glacier trek?
Panth currently rates this trail as Moderate. Also consider altitude, weather, distance and your own experience.
What is the best time to trek Kafni Glacier?
Panth currently lists May, Jun, Sep, Oct. Verify current weather and trail access before travelling.
Is a permit required for Kafni Glacier?
No advance permit is currently recorded, although local entry fees or rules may still apply.
How long is the Kafni Glacier trek?
The catalogue records 6 days and approximately 38 km. Actual walking time can vary with route conditions, acclimatization, weather and itinerary.