Hardeol Peak Uttarakhand

Hardeol peak, also famous by the name of ‘Temple of God’ is one of the important peak situated at the northern end of the Milam valley, in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. The altitude of this magnificent peaks is 7,161 m above the sea level. It is considered to be the tallest peak on the northern side of the ring of the peaks that shield the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, Hardeol peak lies to the northeast corner of this ring. The beautiful surrounding peaks are one of its peak’s attraction, to its north lies Trishuli, the south side is occupied by Rishi Pahar and the north-south ridge leads eventually to Nanda Devi East. Trishuli South is another name Hardeol is famous with.

Hardeol peak is not particularly a popular choice for the explorers looking for adventure activities like mountaineering in Uttarakhand. As it is only after a few serious attempts that started in 1939, the peak was first climbed on 31st May 1978, by a team from the Indo-Tibetan Border police which was led by S. P. Malasi. The ridge connecting the peak to Trishuli was the route that was used by the team. As per the records, only one other successful ascent is listed in the Himalayan Index. It was the expedition consisted of a large team from the Indian Border Security Force, out of which five members made it to the summit on 24th Sept 1991. So if one wants to experience trekking and peak climbing in the Uttarakhand Himalayas, there are other awe-inspiring mountains that are available in both Garhwal and Kumaon region.

The easiest route to reach Hardeol summit is from the eastern side, through the Ikualari glacier and thence to the right, up the Trishuli valley towards the Hardeol icefall. Munsiyari is the nearest place that is accessible through motorable roads, from where the adventure tourists start their trek to Kumaon Himalayas.