Nag Tibba Trek, known as Serpent’s Peak, offers an accessible Himalayan adventure in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region at 9,915 feet (3,022 meters). This weekend-friendly trek covers 16-20 km round trip, ideal for beginners seeking panoramic views of peaks like Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini.
Trek Overview
The Nag Tibba Trek spans 16-20 km total, typically completed over 2 days with 5-6 hours of daily trekking. It starts at Pantwari village (base at 4,600 feet) and climbs through dense oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests to the summit. Rated easy to moderate, it suits ages 11-62 with basic fitness, like walking 5-6 hours carrying a light pack.
Elevation gain reaches 1,000-1,200 meters cumulatively, with steady uphill paths and minimal technical sections. Book with Brand Uttarakhand Tour Travels for guided packages including permits, meals, and gear.
Popular Routes
Three main routes lead to the Nag Tibba summit, each varying in distance and accessibility.
- Pantwari Village Route (8-10 km round trip, most popular): Shortest and direct, 50 km drive from Mussoorie or 85-99 km from Dehradun. Steep forest trail to base camp (7 km one way), then 1-2 km to the summit. Requires a guide due to unmarked sections.
- Devalsari Village Route (13-16 km): Longer through thick deodar forests; start with a forest guest house stay (permit from Mussoorie Forest Office). Remote with fewer trekkers.
- Aunter Route (details vary, 12 km): Less common alternative via meadows; combines scenic valleys.
Pantwari suits quick getaways from Delhi (330 km total).
Detailed Itinerary
Brand Uttarakhand Tour Travels recommends this 2D/1N plan for optimal pacing.
Day 1: Dehradun/Pantwari to Base Camp (7 km trek, 2-3 hours)
Drive 99 km from Dehradun to Pantwari (3-4 hours). Trek uphill from Nag Devta Temple through forests to base camp at Goat Village (7,610 feet). Enjoy lunch, evening snacks, and stargazing dinner.
Day 2: Summit Push and Descent (6-8 km total, 5-6 hours)
Start pre-dawn (2-3 AM) for 1-2 km summit climb (steep, marked by a flag). Witness 360° Himalayan views at sunrise. Descend to base camp for lunch, then back to Pantwari (3-4 hours). Drive to Dehradun.
Extend to 3 days for acclimatization if winter trekking.
| Day | Distance | Elevation Gain | Highlights |
| 1 | 7 km trek + drive | 4,640 to 7,610 ft | Forest trails, base camp |
| 2 | 4-6 km round to summit + descent | Up to 9,915 ft | Panoramic peaks, sunrise |
Best Time to Trek
Trek from September to March for clear skies and dry trails. Autumn (Sep-Nov) offers crisp air; winter (Dec-Feb) brings snow magic, though slippery, perfect for Brand Uttarakhand’s snow packages. Spring (Mar-Apr) features rhododendrons. Avoid monsoons (Jul-Aug) due to mud and landslides.
How to Reach
Fly to Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun, 5 hours to Pantwari) or train/bus to Dehradun station. From Dehradun, taxi/shared jeep 85-99 km to Pantwari (Rs. 3,000-5,000). Brand Uttarakhand provides pickups from Dehradun/Mussoorie.
Fitness and Preparation
Build stamina with 3-4 weeks of cardio: brisk walks, stairs (1-hour daily). No prior experience needed, but must manage 1,200m gain. Stay hydrated, pace steadily.
Essential Packing List:
- 30-40L backpack, trekking shoes (high-ankle, grippy).
- Layers: 5-6 warm clothes, jacket, gloves, cap (winter).
- Raincoat, water bottle (2L), snacks, sunscreen, torch, ID.
- Power bank, meds; offload bag if needed (Rs. 365/day).
Permits and Costs
Forest entry permit required (Rs. 150-200/person, included in packages); obtain at Mussoorie Forest Office or via operator. Brand Uttarakhand packages (Rs. 4,000-6,000/person) cover meals, tents, guide, transport, excludes GST, personal expenses.
Safety Tips
Trek with guides; start early for daylight descent. Layer for temperature drops (-5°C winter); grip shoes prevent slips. Acclimatize, eat well, follow the leader, and no solo treks. Emergency: Carry whistle, inform itinerary.
Nag Tibba delivers forests, summits, and peaks without extremes, book with Brand Uttarakhand Tour Travels for seamless magic.
