The Satopanth Glacier is situated in the Indian state of
Uttarakhand. The term ‘Satopanth’ is perhaps derived from two words - ‘Sato’ meaning heaven, and ‘Panth’ meaning path or way. The glacier is one of the popular glaciers of Uttarakhand. Mountaineers consider it a bit tough to scale. Scientists claim that the Satopanth Glacier is retreating, though unlike as fast as the
Gangotri Glacier. So, a number of preventive measures have been taken. Also since the glacier lies quite near the Indo-Tibet Border so photography is strictly prohibited.
Geography:
It lies on the northwest side of
Nilkantha, a major peak of the Garhwal division of the Himalayas. It sits below a 2,500 m (8,200 ft) face of the peak. Originating at a height of 7000 meters from the peaks of the
Chaukhamba (7068m) and the
Badrinath (6974m) mountains, the glacier spreads over a vast expanse of 13 km, this glacier melts into water at an altitude of 3810 meters. The Narayan Parvat and the foot of Balkun or
Balakun peak, touches the glacier.
Other Information:
The Satopanth Glacier can be approached from
Joshimath in the Chamoli sub-division, by following the Badrinath and
Mana (3128m) road. From Mana, the route follows the course of the
Alaknanda River. At an elevation of 145 km, on the route, you will come across a water fall named Vasudhara, lying on the right bank of the Alaknanda River. The snout of Satopanth Glacier opens at about 5 km upwards from Vasudhara. 2 km down the valley, the left bank of the river offers good conditions for camping. Satopanth Glacier can only be approached in summer months. Treks to this glacier is a very sought after adventure, for tourists in Uttarakhand. The nearest airport is at Jollygrant, about 221 km, the nearest rail head is at
Rishikesh and is well-connected by roads with
Dehradun,
Haridwar, Rishikesh, Nanital, and
Almora.
