Nagtibba Trek from Dehradun: Weekend Hike, Snow & Bonfire

Summary

Nagtibba Trekking Experience: Forest Trails & Himalayan Views

If you’re craving a quick escape into real mountain life—forest trails, sunrise views, snow play (in season), and evenings around a fire—the Nagtibba trek is perfect for you. It’s beginner-friendly but still feels like an adventure, with local food and cozy tents waiting at camp.

What’s the experience like?

The drive from Dehradun to Pantwari is a bit bumpy, but you’ll spot chai stalls with locals chatting away, and the air gets cooler as you climb higher. When we reached Pantwari, the sun was already dipping behind the hills. There’s this quiet you only get in the mountains—just a few dogs barking and someone chopping wood nearby. We dropped our bags at the tents (triple sharing, but honestly, it felt cozy) and were handed hot tea and a plate of pakodas. I remember the steam rising in the chilly air—felt good after the long ride. Someone offered Maggi for a few extra rupees; I couldn’t resist. The bonfire later wasn’t huge, but it was enough to warm our hands and swap stories with other trekkers. Dinner was simple but filling—rice, dal, and sabzi. Crawling into the sleeping bag with an extra blanket lining, I could hear the wind rustling through the tent flaps.

At 3:30 am, someone’s alarm went off (too early, honestly), but you get used to it quick. We set out with headlamps on, munching on biscuits and fruit as we walked. The trail winds through patches of pine forest—sometimes you catch a whiff of damp earth or see frost glinting on leaves if it’s winter. Reaching the Nagtibba summit just as the sky started to lighten is something I won’t forget. If you’re lucky and there’s snow, you’ll see people sliding down little slopes or trying to build lopsided snowmen. The sunrise is worth every step—orange light spilling over distant peaks like Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini. After some time just soaking it all in (and snapping a few photos), we headed back down for a hot lunch at base camp. There’s time to rest before heading back to Pantwari and catching your ride out. You’ll probably be tired by Monday morning—but it’s the kind of tired that feels good.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival and Camp Setup

• Settle in tents and enjoy sunset
• Bonfire and dinner

Day 2 — Summit Trek and Return

• Early morning trek to Nagtibba summit
• Witness sunrise and snow activities
• Return to base camp for lunch
• Head back to Pantwari office

Top questions

Is this trek suitable for first-timers?

Yes, if you can walk about 20 km over two days, you’ll be fine. It’s one of the easier Himalayan treks and guides are there to help along the way.

What should I pack for the Nagtibba trek?

Bring warm clothes (layers are best), sturdy shoes, a headlamp or torch, water bottle, and some snacks if you like. Sleeping bags and mats are provided at camp.

Will there be snow on the trek?

There’s usually snow from December to March near the summit. Outside those months, expect clear trails and green forests.

Are meals included?

Dinner is included at camp, plus tea and snacks like pakoda. Hot Maggi is available for a small fee if you want extra.

What’s included

Your shared transport from Dehradun to Pantwari (and back) is covered. At camp, you’ll get dinner, tea, snacks, a sleeping mat, double-layer sleeping bag with blanket lining, and tent accommodation (triple sharing). Guides are always around if you need help or have questions.