May 2018: Rain, snow, and storm, the Himalayas saw it all!
April showers bring May flowers! But mountains and unpredictability are synonymous to each other and the experience this time was quite different for the trekkers. The trails in Uttarakhand were dusted with fresh layers of snow and the weather condition was bad. As a result of this, some of the treks were left unfinished whereas trekkers were successful in completing the others.
Let's quickly read through the updates on all our May batches till now:
Pangarchulla
The 5th May batch could not make it to the summit because of excessive snowfall and the group had to return from kullara campsite. On the other hand, the 12th May batch was successful and made it to the summit. The 17th May batch is expected to be back today in Joshimath by evening.
The weather prediction for the coming week:
Maximum temperature- 13 degrees
Minimum temperature- -3 degree
Precipitation- 0%
The week is expected to be clear and mostly sunny with moderate winds. Sunday might witness a cloudy sky.
Bali Pass
Snow, Sunlight and pleasing weather! That's how I define perfection and all these were the components on Bali Pass Trek. Yes, unbelievably one of the most challenging treks in Uttarakhand was a perfect delight. All our participants of 12th May batch successfully completed the trek. Time for a pat on the back.
The weather prediction for the coming week:
Maximum temperature- 7 degrees
Minimum temperature- -7 degrees
Precipitation- 0%-20%
The week is expected to be mostly sunny during the day and windy at night. On Wednesday and Thursday, one can expect light showers.
Rupin Pass
The Rupin pass trail experienced a variety of weather conditions. The participants on the 5th May batch could not cross the pass because of heavy snowfall and presence of thick layers of snow. The participants on the 12th May batch encountered heavy rain and snow but the Bravehearts crossed it anyway. Bravo!
The weather prediction for the coming week:
Maximum temperature- 8 degrees
Minimum temperature- -6 degrees
Precipitation- 0%- 20%
The week is expected to be clear and mostly sunny with moderate winds. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday might experience a little drizzling.
Roopkund
Trekkers of the 12th May Roopkund batch had to return from Kalua Vinayak as the trails further were all covered with snow making it impossible to cross. Two batches are on their way. We hope they return victorious. Keeping our fingers crossed.
The weather prediction for the coming week:
Maximum temperature- 8 degrees
Minimum temperature- -6 degrees
Precipitation- 0%- 40%
The week is expected to be partly sunny and partially cloudy with moderate winds. While Wednesday and Thursday are expected to be cloudy. The probability of scattered rainfall is high on Saturday and Sunday.
Bhrigu Lake
The participants of 12th May Bhrigu Lake batch made it to the lake but the trail from Pandu Ropa to Vashisht still hasn’t opened so they had to return by the same route. The 19th May batch is on its last leg. They're expected to return to Manali tomorrow.
The weather prediction for the coming week:
Maximum temperature- 9 degrees
Minimum temperature- -6 degrees
Precipitation- 0%- 20%
The week is expected to be clear and mostly sunny with moderate winds. The chances of rainfall are almost negative.
Vasuki Tal
Trekkers of 12th May batch had to return from Tapovan because the direct route from Bhojbasa to Nandanvan was damaged because of the recent landslide and avalanche that hit early in May. The 19th May batch is on their way and we are hoping to complete the trek. Our trek leader has proposed the use of advanced techniques like Taro line Traverse for the group but it is easier said than done.
The weather prediction for the coming week:
Maximum temperature- 4 degrees
Minimum temperature- -11 degrees
Precipitation- 0%
The week is expected to be clear and mostly sunny with moderate winds.
Goecha La
The trails of Goecha La also witnessed snow and rains but the zeal and enthusiasm of the group moved mountains, not literally though. The 5th May trek was successful in completing the trek and the participants returned in their best shape. We have closed the batches for Goecha La until September because it is time for monsoon season in the North-East now.
