gaumukh tapovan trek permit

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Online Single Window System

For apply online permission for Innerline Area, Gangotri National Park and Govind Pashu Vihar :-

Visit : https://www.swstourismuki.com/

City : Uttarkashi | PIN Code : 249193

Online Registration for Treks in Uttarkashi

Single window system, (online application for permission to visit various treks in uttarkashi district).

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Uttarakhand |

Uttarakhand | India

Max Altitude

Trekking Km

Moderate to Difficult

Help & Support

16400 /person $ /person.

• September-2024
• October-2024
• +5% GST (goods and services tax)
• Services Gangotri to Gangotri

Insurance 280

Insurance is Mandatory.

Non-Indian rates are slightly higher. Trek coordinator will provide balance payment link post-booking.

• Get insurance through us or elsewhere. If not through us, email for a refund after booking.

Cancellation 4 or more days before the start of the trip results in a 100% cash refund.

Cancellation less than 4 days from the start of the trip results in no refund.

Transport 2500

Transportation Rishikesh to Gangotri & retun is optional

Choose add-ons during booking. If missed, log in and add them later

Book transportation at least 10 days before the trek.

Cancellation less than 4 days from the start of the trip results in a 50% cash refund.

Cancellation after the trip date does not qualify for a refund.

Offload 2100

Backpack offload is optional

Choose add-ons during booking. If missed, log in and add them later.

Book off-load at least 10 days before the trek.

For offline bookings at the base camp, a convenience fee of Rs. 2900 applies.

Cancellations made before the trip date will receive a full refund.

For more information. Please complete this form.

Help & Support

Trek Name: Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Gangotri

Season: Summer | Autumn |

Month: May | June | September | October |

Country: India

Altitude: 14600 Ft.

Grade: Moderate to Difficult

Rail Head: Dehradun

Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse : triple, quad, dormitory (separate for male and female)

Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg)

Location: Uttarakhand

Distance: 46 Km.

Trail Type: Point to point trail | Camping at the same location upon returning.

AirPort: Jolly Grant Airport, which is 28 km away from Dehradun

Why Gaumukh - Tapovan Is A Must-Do Trek ?

Gaumukh - The Origin of Bhagirathi River :

• Translating to the Mouth of a Cow, Gomukh marks the sacred source of the Bhagirathi River.
• Embark on a journey to the pristine landscapes where the Ganges begins its sacred flow.

Tapovan - Sanctuary of Sages and Saints:

• Tapovan, meaning a place used by sages and saints for meditation, offers a tranquil haven for spiritual seekers.
• Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance that has drawn yogis for centuries, seeking solace and enlightenment.

Spectacular Sights Along the Trek:

• Marvel at the majestic Shivling, Thalay Sagar, Bhagirathi twin peaks, and the awe-inspiring Mount Meru.
• Traverse alpine meadows adorned with a vibrant carpet of rhododendrons, orchids, and alpine flowers, creating a breathtaking floral spectacle.

Spiritual Essence at Gomukh and Tapovan:

• Experience the spiritual aura at Gomukh, the sacred source of the Ganges River.
• Tapovan, surrounded by divine energy, has been a retreat for yogis and sages seeking serenity for centuries.

Symbolism of Gomukh:

• Witness the symbolic purity and the cycle of life at Gomukh, where the Ganges River originates from the Gangotri Glacier.

Thrilling Adventure Amidst Natures Untouched Beauty:

• Find the perfect blend of adventure and thrill as you navigate challenging terrains, cross chilling streams, and revel in the untouched beauty of the Himalayas.
• Encounter diverse Himalayan fauna, including Himalayan blue sheep, marmots, and the elusive snow leopard, creating an enriching wildlife experience.

Panoramic Views and Visual Feasts:

• Enjoy panoramic views of the Bhagirathi peaks and the mighty Meru from the elevated meadows of Tapovan, providing a visual feast for nature enthusiasts.

Cultural Tapestry and Spiritual Heritage:

• Experience the rich cultural tapestry through rituals and ceremonies, connecting with the spiritual heritage of the region.

Photographers Dream Destination:

• Capture postcard-perfect moments at every step, from snow-capped peaks to the vivid hues of alpine flowers, making it a dream destination for photographers.

Gateway to Inner Peace and Self-Discovery:

• Whether seeking an adrenaline rush, spiritual introspection, or communion with nature, Gomukh Tapovan offers a gateway to inner peace and self-discovery.

An eight-day itinerary interspersing myth, spirituality, and sensational adventure, the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek takes you around the Gangotri glacier to the site traditionally believed to be the mouth of the holy river Ganga.

The Gangotri glacier expanse is nearly 24 km long and 6 to 8 km wide, beginning from Gaumukh and extending as far as the Chaukhamba massif around Badrinath. Courtesy of celebrated mountaineers Shipton and Tilman, we have a trek route traversing the entire stretch of this storied land. After feasting our senses in the fleeting glacial hues and the immense backdrop of Mount Shivling, present in its entirety from the base to the serrated peak, we descend through the meadows of Tapovan back to Gangotri. The trek is verily a raging visual thrillfest with rising mountain behemoths such as the Bhagirathi twin peaks, and Mount Meru, besides the ever-present Shivling.

The realization of the magnificence of watching the river that gave birth and nourished an entire civilization emerge fitfully out of the Gaumukh snout to flow 2,525 odd kilometers before meeting with the ocean, comes at a riveting spiritual moment. Trickling from Gangotri glacier through Gaumukh, meaning “cow’s mouth”, the river has a different name- Bhagirathi and becomes the Ganga, the life vein of the northern plains of India only after flowing in with another headstream, Alaknanda at Devaprayag- the key confluence point of Ganga before it pours into the plains. This illustrious geography has emerged from myths that imagine the river as intensely sacred. She was brought to earth from her celestial heights to renew the life of men by the rigorous dedication of a mortal, Bhagirath who gives the channel its name- Bhagirathi, and the river’s devastating energy was sustained by none other than Shiva himself.

The trek, in great parts, veers beyond the tree line and passes through larger-than-life mountainscapes. We camp at rugged heights from where the snow-transfused peaks are a stone’s throw away. Be it the surreal sight of the Bhagirathi peaks glistening in the moonlight, the mind-numbing sight of the Shivling from Tapovan campsite, rising from the base to its zenith right before you, or a glimpse of the formidable Mount Meru, the bravura of visual ecstasies never seems to run out on this journey.

This trek is classified as moderate-difficult for all the right reasons. You must come braced for an arduous hike along boulder-ridden paths and a ruthless climate. The holy men who are found living permanently in the meadows of Tapovan for sadhana under the gaze of Shivling can be the ones to draw your inspiration from!

About The Trek

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a magnificent trek that takes you along one of the most beautiful and mystical routes of India, all the way to the Gaumukh Glacier, the source of the holy river Ganges. This beautiful trek starts from Gangotri. On the first day, you will drive from Rishikesh to Gangotri and the following day you will have an acclimatization day to adjust your body to the higher altitudes. On day 3, our actual trekking begins where we will trek from Gangotri to Chirbasa. A beaten trail takes you from Gangotri to Chirbasa, Chirbasa is covered with tree lines, although not as dense.

The next day, you will trek up to Bhojwasa and as you move out of Chirbasa, the terrain becomes barren and desolate resembling the Arctic Tundra. The closer you get to Bhojwasa, the more vegetation you start to notice, and soon you are in a dense forest. Once you reach Bhojwasa, you are free to explore the area at your leisure in the evening and enjoy a startling sunset over the Bhagirathi group of peaks. The next day, we will head to the source of the Ganga River, the Gaumukh Glacier, and also trek up to Tapovan, a meadow where sages and ascetics go for meditation. Taking a rest day at Tapovan the next day, we will head back to Bhojbasa the following day, and from Bhojbasa we will head back to Gangotri on the 8th day, you will be driven back to Rishikesh, ending the wonderful adventure.

What Can You Expect At The Trek

Gaumukh Tapovan is a moderate to difficult trek and as such it requires you to be physically prepared for the trek. Even though it’s a difficult trek, with the right preparation, even a beginner can do the trek.  The trek is great for mountain views. You get fantastic views of Mt. Shivling, from the base to the summit, and the Bhagirathi group of peaks.

If you are doing the trek in the summer months that is from mid-May to end-June, there may be traces of snow in mid-May and whatever vegetation the trail has become turning green, the melting snow also adds a swell to the Bhagirathi River and this is noticeable in Suryakund itself. In July, the monsoon begins, which adds makes the trail prone to rockfalls and landslides and it is extremely risky to go there during the monsoon season thus we recommend visiting Gangotri pre-monsoon or post-monsoon. The summer season is the most popular time to do the trek as a lot of pilgrims also happen to visit Gangotri. During summer, the daytime temperature is pleasant and remains around 15°C - 20°C during daytime while the nights are cold and the temperature can drop close to 0°C.

Another great time to do the trek is during autumn when you get to see amazing views of the valley and autumn also brings some color to the trail as the vegetation en route to Bhojwasa turns shades of brown, maroon, and yellow. The autumn season for Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is much shorter than the summer season and lasts for about only 4 to 5 weeks. This is because from mid-October it starts snowing and the higher campsites like Bhojwasa are completely covered in snow, making the trek impossible to do in winter. In autumn (mid-Sep to mid-Oct)  the temperature is around 15°C during the day and at night it falls as low as -3°C to -5°C. So dress appropriately in layers to keep yourself warm.

• Who can Participate
• Important Links
• How to Reach
• Trek Essential

Who Can Participate

• Age; 15 years.
• Experience of any high altitude trek, at least 1 treks of 4,000m/13,100ft.
• The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover 6 km of distance in 35 minutes without stress.
• The climber should be able to carry a 12-16 kg backpack.

Dehradun To Gangotri

• Altitude: 3,100 m/ 10,200 ft
• Pick-up time: Dehradun railway station 6 Am
• Drive distance: 250 km (7-8 hrs)
• The local market and network are available
• Stay in guesthouse
• Route:  Dehradun - Mussorie - Dhanulti - Chamba - Uttarkashi - Harshil - Gangotri

Note: We will pick you up at 6 am from the Dehradun railway station for an 8-hour-long journey to Natin village.

Get all set to begin the journey from Dehradun in morning 6. The day will be longer as you will cover 250 km to Gangotri. It will be a wonderful 8-hour ride along the mighty mountains. We start early in the morning so that we can reach Gangotri by evening.

Located at only 35 km from Dehradun, the first major attraction will be Mussorie, the famous hill station. The Hill station offers majestic sights of the Shivalik Ranges. After a break for lunch and a bit of sightseeing through Dhanulti, Chamba, you will arrive at the land of Gods, Uttarkashi.

Uttarkashi, the ‘Kashi of the north’ lies on the banks of river Bhagirathi and is home to the renowned Kashi Vishwanath temple. It is a picturesque town where you will see all the temples and religious people around, making you believe that you truly are in the land of Gods. The river Bhagirathi takes you to the scenic Harshil village. Harshil is known for apple orchards everywhere giving a retreat to your eyes. Harshil is the best place to enjoy the serene evening amidst the mountains.

Even after a long ride to Gangotri, you would wish it wouldn’t end. Gangotri is on the banks of river Bhagirathi, pervaded by pilgrims. You can roam in the local market, interact with local people, and share amazing pictures with your friends, because of the good network availability. During the night have a great homemade dinner and rest in the guest house.

Acclimatization Day At Gangotri

Altitude: 3,100 m/ 10,200 ft.

Gangotri Temple - Gangotri is one of the Char Dhams of Uttarakhand.

• After breakfast visit Pandav Gufa, Bhagirath Shila, Surya, and Gauri Kund.

Post lunch can visit Gangotri Temple or go shopping.

Acclimatization walk around Gangotri town.

Stay in the guesthouse.

Good morning in the holy land of Gangotri!

Have breakfast and enjoy the entire day just being alive in the religious vibes. The entire region brims with spiritual fervour and Gangotri is a haven not just for spiritual seekers but also for adventure enthusiasts as well.

Now that you are at 10171 ft height, today is the day for acclimatization. Acclimatization is like a health supplement for your body to get used to the environment and low temperature. At TTH, we take acclimatization very seriously as it is one of the key contributors to the success of a trek. Take acclimatization walks around Gangotri in the evening and while doing that, you can take advantage of being in Gangotri, one of the four Char Dhams. The Gangotri temple is the biggest temple that was built in the 18th century. Apart from that, you can visit the BhagirathShila, a holy rock where King Bhagirath worshipped Lord Shiva and Pandava Gufa where Pandavas rested. Surya Kund and Gaurikund are two hot water springs that you can visit as well, Surya and Gauri Kund are both located on either side of an iron bridge near the temple. 

You will see many foreigners meditating and roaming around. Spend the night in the guest house and get ready for the upcoming trek.

Gangotri To Chirbasa

Altitude: 3,550 m/ 11,700 ft

Trek Distance: 9 km | 5 to 6 hrs

Altitude Gain: 450 m/ 1,500 ft

Entire trek in Gangotri National Park

Accommodation in tent

Hot lunch is served at the campsite

Campsite under the pine forest

Moderate level of gradual ascent

Spring and manmade water points are available

Evening acclimatization walk

Have a full breakfast and take steps ahead to embark on the trek through the mountains. We start early from Gangotri and head towards the Chirbasa campsite. The trek starts from a forest check post and after getting your permits checked proceed on the trekking trail on the left side of the mountain. You will be walking through the pine forests alongside the gurgling Bhagirathi river. There will be gradual ascents but it will be an easy 4-5 hours trek. You will come across many waterfalls and natural streams where you can refill your bottles. Throughout the route beautiful Sudarshan Parbat (21,345ft) will accompany you. The entire walk will be in the Gangotri National Park. Once you cross the third ridge on your trek, you will be greeted with a mesmerizing view of the valley. The fragrance of the blue pine and fir trees is enough to soothe your senses. 

Towards the end of the trek you will be welcomed by boulders of the Sudarshan peak, just cross them and you will reach the campsite.

This will be the most scenic campsite, with the Bhagirathi river gushing on the right, lying in between the mountains under the pine trees. The campsite offers the first views of the Bhagirathi Sister peaks, Bhagirathi I, II, and III ( 6856 m, 6512 m, & 6454 m respectively) sharing space with Manda Peak, Bhrigu Parbat, etc. Far away you can also make out the Gaumukh Glacier.

Revive yourself by having lunch. Enjoy the blissful evening by the side of the Bhagirathi river, you can also take an acclimatization walk to explore the area. To make the day more adventurous you will be spending the night in tents. Of course, besides the flowing river, between the mountain peaks, under the pine trees…!!!

Chirbasa To Bhojwasa

Altitude: 3,800 m/ 12,500 ft

Trek Distance: 5 km | Duration: 2 to 3 hrs

Altitude Gain: 250 m/ 800 ft

Reach campsite for lunch

Easiest day of the trek

Moderate level gradual ascent

Birch (Bhojpatra) forests in the area

Ashram, police post (SRDF), and rest house available

Mt. Bhagirathi massif view from the camp area

After lunch, acclimatization walk in the surrounding areas.

Wake up with the stunning fluorescent views of sun rays on the mountain peaks, and get refreshed to trudge again. This will be the easiest 2-3 hours trek having a gradual ascent. The trail widens now with closer views of the Bhagirathi peaks. You will cross some landslide sections easier to walk upon. About 45 minutes into the walk you will reach the first ridge section and as you keep walking, the Bhagirathi group of peaks comes closer and closer. Soon you will reach a landslide-prone area filled with boulders and a stream running across your path. There will be another ridge after this point with about 8 to 9 landslide-prone bends, be mindful of falling rocks in this area. After the trek, you will see a bridge over a stream and a plain terrain where tents will be laid for you, this is Bhojwassa.

The name Bhojwasa came from Bhopatra trees or the Birch trees, which are in abundance there. This is the widest part of the valley serving you the first view of Mount Shivling. You will find an ashram, police post, and a rest house, as well as some igloo-like houses. You can opt to stay in those houses but that requires permission.

Chill around in the noon after having lunch at the campsite. You can capture the splendid camping area, or you can walk 300 m above the Bhojwasa campsite from where you can get a striking view of the valley. Spend the cozy cold night in the tents.

Bhojwasa To Tapovan

Altitude: Tapovan - 4,450 m/ 14,600 ft

Trek Distance: 9 km| Duration:  hr

Altitude Gain: 650 m/ 2,100 ft

Hot lunch/ packed lunch

No water points, it is advisable to carry at least 2 litres of water

A challenging day on the trek

Carry energy bars, ors, and water

Trek begins over rocky boulders and becomes noticeably steep gradually over the rocky terrain

Cross the river by means of a trolley.

You might see mountain goat/ Ibex near your campsite

Tapovan camp is surrounded by giants - Mt. Shivling, Meru, Manda, the Bhagirathi group, Kedar Dome, Kharchakund, and many more.

Today we will trek from Bhojwasa to Tapovan. It is a 9 km long trek so eat full, get packed lunch, fill water bottles (there are no water sources on the route), carry energy bars, and lots of excitement.

We will set off early in the morning and after walking for bout half a kilometre, we will arrive at the Bhagirathi River. To reach the Tapovan, we need to cross the river by means of a manually pulled trolley over the bridge. It is a unique experience and this method is often used as a method of river crossing in the mountains where there are no bridges in place. It takes about an hour for the entire batch to cross the river via a trolley so don’t be impatient.

After crossing the river, you will walk for about 2 km with rocks and stones on either side, this is also a potential rockfall-prone zone, so we will try to cross the area before lunchtime to avoid any potential rockfalls. After crossing this zone, you have to cross the Akash Ganga River. Look for spots from where you can cross the river and if the water flow is high then you will have to take your shoes off to cross the stream.

We will have lunch after crossing the river. Tapovan is a steep climb from here. After lunch, we will set out for the Tapovan campsite. It takes about 1.5 hr to reach Tapovan from this point. Once we reach the Tapovan meadows, we will find a suitable spot to pitch our camp for an overnight stay.

Tapovan is famous for the Sadhus who come here for meditation. It is also the base camp for the expeditions going to Mt. Shivling. It offers the direct, bigger sight of Mt. Shivling which is considered one of the most sacred and beautiful mountains. Do not miss the sight of Mt. Meru and Bhagirathi peaks. Pilgrims are not allowed to camp in Tapovan unless they have a permit. 

After a gruelling trek, Tapovan serves as the perfect place for solitude. Here you will find mountain goats roaming around, just as you are, and a great view of the Gaumukh Glacier. End your strained yet memorable day by resting peacefully in tents.

Tapovan To Bhojwasa via Gaumukh

Altitude: Bhojwasa - 3,800 m/ 12, 500 ft

Trek Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5 to 6 hrs

Descend through moraine and glacier till Gaumukh

Packed lunch

Rise early to cherish the few last moments in front of legendary mountains that are shining in the bright sun's rays and get ready to visit the Gaumukh Glacier. Mt. Shivling looks prettier than ever before, passing its beauty to the adjacent peaks. Together they all make a spectacular sight. It is time to take these memories back after having breakfast. Carry a packed lunch and enough water as you did earlier because there are no water sources.

Yes, again you have to cross the rocky terrain and moraines of the glacier. Descending is more difficult than ascending they say, you will realize this now as you make your way around the boulders. Watch your steps and move gradually. Try to relive the moments while you retrace the steps. Enjoy the forested sections of Bhojwasa once again with its flora and fauna. 

It is quite a steep descent to Gaumkuh and today you will get to see the behemoth glacier from up close. Gaumukh is the end of the Gangotri glacier and hence the source of the divine Ganges river. Gaumukh means cow’s mouth, it is believed the snout looked like a cow's mouth in past. Most religious people consider it a blessing to visit the Ganges. Even if you are not religious you will be astonished to see how huge the snout is and how small you are in front of it.

The legend has it that once there was a powerful king named Sagar, who wished to perform the Ashwamedh Yajna with a ceremonial sacrifice horse. Fearing that Sagar will complete the Yajna, Lord Indra took the horse and tied it to the ashram of Lord Kapila where he used to meditate. Sagar sent out 60,000 of his sons to bring back the horse and when they were creating chaos in Kapila Muni’s ashram, his meditation got disrupted and he turned all of the 60000 sons to ashes and cursed that they will attain Moksha only if their ashes are washed in the water of the holy River Ganga, who then resided in heaven. All of Sagar's ancestors failed to please Brahma to bring Ganga on Earth, however, King Bhagirath was able to please Brahma and he ordered Ganga to flow down Earth. Goddess Ganga was not pleased with this and flowed with such intensity that she was about to drown the entire world. Bhagirath then prayed to Lord Shiva and Shiva agreed to capture Ganga in his locks to control the force and this is how Ganga arrived on Earth. To date, it is believed that a dip in the Ganga is enough to resolve all sins of an individual.

After a steep descent to Gaumukh, walk down the terrain alongside the Bhagirathi river. It will be a 5 to 6 hrs trek to Bhojwasa and you will be back to the same pine forests. Tonight we will camp here again before returning to Gangotri the following day.

Bhojwasa To Gangotri

Altitude: 3,200 m/ 10,200 ft

Trek Distance: 14 km | Duration: 6 to 7 hr

Altitude Loss: 600 m/ 1,968 ft

Accommodation in the guest house

Moderate level of gradual descent

Wake up to realize that this will be the last day of the trek. Trek for around 6 to 7 hours covering 14 km to reach Gangotri. You will enter again in the Gangotri National Park, with the valley slowly closing behind you. Watch out for the rockfall section once again and you can catch upstreams and waterfalls to refill your water bottle. Say goodbye to the Bhagirathi and other mountain peaks as their sight now disappears.

Have a hot lunch and dinner in the guest house. Pack to return to Dehradun and thereby to your lovely homes.

Depart For Dehradun

Have a final cup of morning tea in the mighty land of Gangotri. Say a final goodbye to your fellow trekkers and take back lots of memories. Take a wonderful group picture and get into the cab that will ride you back to Dehradun. This will be an 8-hour ride, between the mountains, valleys, and Bhagirathi river. The river guided us throughout the trek.

You will reach Dehradun by 5 PM, and from here you can lead your return journey as you have planned. We hope you take back loads of adventure-filled memories and take a pledge to come back to the mountains.

Day-1: Dehradun To Gangotri

Day-2: acclimatization day at gangotri, day-3: gangotri to chirbasa, day-4: chirbasa to bhojwasa, day-5: bhojwasa to tapovan, day-6: tapovan to bhojwasa via gaumukh, day-7: bhojwasa to gangotri, day-8: depart for dehradun.

• Gangotri to Dehradun Drive distance:  250 km (7-8 hrs)
• After morning tea towards Dehradun.
• Reach Dehradun by 5 to 6 Pm.

Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 90 beats per minute).

Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 70 – 90, SYSTOLIC 100 - 140 mm Hg).

Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).

Should not have Liver and kidney issues.

Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.

No pacemaker implant.

People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.

If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.

        Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

• Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when they join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and the Ministry Of Tourism (MOT).
• Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before the trek departure date.
• This service is exclusive to Indian government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
• Do mail at info@trekthehimalayas to apply and mention your booked trek date and trek name.

Junior trekkers (below 15 years) should have a company of parents/guardians.

Trekkers between 15 to 18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.

• Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

Exercise For Moderate to Difficult

Fitness Regime For:

Calculate Your Bmi

Your BMI value is

Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!

Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents)  Click Here.

How To Reach

It is essential for everyone to arrive at Dehradun (06:00 am). 

Our pick-up location is Dehradun Railway Station at 06:00 AM

Once you have reached Dehradun, TTH will manage the rest of your travel arrangements, if you have opted for TTH's pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.

The distance from the Dehradun Bus Stand (ISBT) to the Railway Station is 6 km, without traffic, it will take 15 minutes.

•   Transportation Amount is not included in the trek cost.
• Pick-up is excluded from the cost of the trek.
• TTH’s Tata Sumo, Tempo Traveller or similar vehicles will pick-up you.
• If you wish to upgrade the transport service, please contact the Trek Coordinator.

Options to reach Dehradun

1. Take an overnight train/bus to Dehradun, and then take a cab to the pickup point.

We always recommend to go for the govt. Buses over the private ones outside the bus station as based on the experience we have found that there are very high chances of delay involved with private buses. Also, govt. Buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, just make sure to reach Dehradun at least by 05:30 am positively.

2. Take flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport) (25 km, 50 min), if coming by flight then come one day early.

If you prefer to travel independently, you can either take a government bus or book a private cab. Your trek coordinator will provide guidance on how to arrange for the bus or cab booking.

Arrive in Dehradun Railway Station by 6:00 pm.

The designated drop-off point is Dehradun Railway station.

Please consider planning your subsequent travel arrangements after 8:00 pm.

The distance from Railway Station to Dehradun Bus Stand (ISBT) is 6 km, it will take approx 25 minutes.

The distance from Railway Station to Dehradun Airport is 28km, it will take approx 45min to 1hr.

TTH offers comfortable transportation through Tempo Traveler, Bolero, or equivalent vehicles. If you wish to upgrade your mode of transportation, please contact your trek coordinator for further assistance.

1. Insurance is Mandatory.

2. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):

• Guest house stay, Type : triple, quad, dormitory (separate for male and female).
• Camping : Twin sharing basis.

3. Meals (Veg + Egg):

•  Day 1 Dinner to Day 7 Dinner as per the itinerary.

4. Support:

• 1 Versatile base camp manager: handles communication and deploys extra manpower in emergencies.
• 1 Mountaineering & First aid qualified professional trek Leader.
• 1 Experienced high altitude chef.
• Local experienced guides (Number of guides depending on the group size).
• Enough support staff.

5. Trek equipment:

• Sleeping bag, Sleeping liners (if required), Mattress, Utensils.
• 3 men all season trekker tent (twin sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent.
• Camping stool, Walkie talkie.
• Ropes, Helmet, Ice axe, Harness, Gaiters & Crampon (if required).

6. First aid:

• Medical kit, Stretcher, Oxygen cylinder, Blood pressure monitor, Oximeter, Stethoscope.

7. Transportation (as per the itinerary):

• Transport from Dehradun to Gangotri and return to Dehradun.

8. Mules/porters to carry the central luggage. 

9. Clock room facility available at the base camp for additional luggage.

10. All necessary permits and entry fees, Upto the amount charged for Indian.

11. Services from Gangotri to Gangotri .

1. Food during the transit.

2. Any kind of personal expenses.

3. Mule or porter to carry personal luggage.

4. Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charge or etc.

5. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusion.

6. Transport cost.

Things can be provided on demand and availability (participant has to pay extra for these things).

1- Satellite phone/set phone - is a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cellphones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.

2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) - is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.  

3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) -  are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly. 

Special Offer

Make a single payment and trek the number of times you want.

If you book a trek with Trek The Himalayas and cannot complete it, or if you've successfully completed the trek and wish to do it again, you can repeat it multiple times at no additional cost.

Terms and conditions

• This offer is non-transferable.
• This offer is valid for Trek The Himalayas limited fixed departures.
• This offer is valid for 5 years from the date of booking.
• This offer is not valid if the participant has received a cash refund or voucher at the time of cancellation.
• Participants don’t have to pay for the trek cost but have to pay for transportation and trek permit costs.

To reserve a spot for a trek or adventure program, you can either utilize our online booking form or call us at the provided number. For your confirmation, a deposit must be wired, including the initial payment.

Cancellation terms:

Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip

Refund options

• 5% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (any trek, any date) to your friend

Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip

• 30% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 85% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend

Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip

• 50% deduction of trek fee
• 80% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 70% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch

Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek

• No cash refund
• 20% cash voucher for the same trip till one year
• 10% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (same trek, same date) to your friend

Note- If a booking is made using a voucher or discount code, the policies related to vouchers and discounts cannot be modified.

In the unlikely event that TTH cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:

While it is extremely rare for TTH to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.

In the event of such a cancellation, TTH will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.

The issuance of a voucher is not applicable in situations where you are required to descend from the trek for any reason. The trek leader may make the decision to send you down from the trek due to factors such as insufficient fitness level, symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), high blood pressure, exceeding the designated turn-around-time, health concerns, or if you are found smoking, drinking, or violating the rules set for the trek. In such cases, the provision of a voucher does not apply.

In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:

We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.

In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.

• Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch
• In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by TTH
• TTH holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice
• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers

Cash Voucher Terms:

• This is a non-transferable voucher
• The voucher cannot be merged with any other offer of Trek The Himalayas
• The voucher is valid for Trek booked directly with Trek The Himalayas in India
• To avail the voucher please use your register phone number or e-mail id
• All the other Terms of booking a trek with Trek The Himalayas are applicable to the voucher
• Trek The Himalayas holds rights to add/remove any of the Terms and Conditions without prior notice

Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.

Trek Essentials

PDF Of Trek Essential Download

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

How to register/create an account with tth.

To register with TTH, visit our website - www.trekthehimalayas.com and create your account. To create your account you will need to use your email address and fill in all the details, set your unique password and your account is ready to use.

How to book a trek?

• To book a trek with TTH, you first need to register with us and create an account.
• Choose the trek that you want to do and click on available dates.
• You will land at the login page, fill in the required details.
• Add Participants, choose add-on services click on the Pay now button, choose your preferred payment method, and make the payment. TTH accepts multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, net banking, and UPI.
• You will receive a confirmation email from TTH with all the necessary details about the trek, including the meeting point, transportation, accommodation, and other important instructions.

Made a payment but did not receive any confirmation.

please send an email to us at [email protected] or reach out to the numbers provided in the Help and Support section of your Trek Page. We will ensure that your issue is promptly resolved.

How to book off-load luggage and transportation?

To book services such as off-load luggage and transportation, you can find them listed as add-ons. These additional services can be booked at the time of your initial booking. If you miss booking add-ons during the initial reservation, you can log in anytime and easily book 4 days before the departure date add-ons through the platform.

If I have booked the wrong trek or date, how can I make changes?

In such a situation, please log in to your account and transfer your trek or date to the desired one within 12 hours or drop us an email at [email protected] 10 days before the departure date of the trek. After the initial 12-hour period, any changes will be processed according to the cancellation policy.

I am a beginner and confused which trek to book.

We recommend visiting our "Suggest Me a Trek" page. By filling out the form, our experts will contact you with the best possible trek options based on your preferences and experience level. Alternatively, you can reach out to us via email at [email protected] or give us a call using the numbers provided on our website for personalized assistance and recommendations.

How is family trek different from regular trek?

Family treks differ from regular treks by focusing on ease of difficulty, offering shorter durations for younger participants, Kid-friendly and easily digestible foods, child-friendly activities, maintaining a higher guide ratio for diverse age groups, and implementing additional safety measures for families.

Ideal treks for children.

Family Trek with Kids recommendation Only Dayara Bugyal and Chopta Chandrashila Trek.

Minimum age for children to trek with TTH.

Minimum age for TTH treks is typically 7 years, though this may vary depending on the specific trek.

Can we take children to high altitudes with their guardian?

Yes, you can take a kids to a high-altitude trek with a parent. Discuss with a trek expert before booking a trek.

Can we send kids without Parents/guardian?

Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download medical and disclaimer form

How to prepare a child for a high altitude trek?

Physical Fitness: Ensure your child is physically fit. Engage them in regular exercise, outdoor activities, and hikes to build stamina and endurance. Hydration: Emphasize the importance of staying hydrated at high altitudes. Encourage your child to drink water regularly, even if they don't feel thirsty. Proper Nutrition: Provide a well-balanced diet with sufficient carbohydrates for energy and foods rich in iron to prevent altitude sickness. Adequate Sleep: Ensure your child gets enough sleep in the days leading up to the trek. Quality rest is crucial for altitude adaptation. Educate on Altitude Sickness: Teach your child about the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and dizziness. Encourage them to communicate any discomfort immediately. Appropriate Clothing and Gear: Dress your child in layers to adjust to changing temperatures. Ensure they have appropriate trekking gear, including sturdy footwear. Positive Mindset: Foster a positive mindset. Encourage your child, and let them know it's okay to take breaks when needed. Medical Check-Up: Schedule a medical check-up before the trek to ensure your child is fit for high-altitude activities. Consult with a healthcare professional about any potential health concerns.

Kind of food will be served during the trek for children.

TTH takes special care to provide wholesome and nutritious food for children on treks. Here are some of the foods that are typically served for children: Breakfast: For breakfast, TTH serves a variety of options like porridge, cornflakes, bread, butter, jam, honey, boiled eggs, omelettes, and pancakes. Children can choose from these options to fuel themselves for the day's trek. Lunch: For lunch, TTH serves lunch which includes rotis, vegetables, rice, dal, and salad. The rotis are usually made fresh on the trek and are a good source of carbohydrates. The dal and vegetables provide protein and other essential nutrients. Snacks: TTH provides healthy snacks like fresh fruits, dry fruits, energy bars, cookies, and biscuits to keep the children energized throughout the day. Dinner: For dinner, TTH serves a hot and wholesome meal which includes soup, rice, dal, vegetables, and a non-vegetarian dish (if requested in advance). Children can also choose from a variety of desserts like custard, jelly, and fruit salad. Dietary requirements: If a child has any special dietary requirements, TTH can cater to those needs as well. For example, if a child is lactose intolerant or allergic to nuts, the kitchen staff can make arrangements to accommodate those requirements.

How to choose the right trek?

Choosing the right trek for a beginner can be a bit overwhelming as there are many factors to consider such as distance, elevation gain, terrain difficulty, weather, and time of year. Here are some tips that can help you choose the right trek for a beginner:

1. Determine fitness level:  Assess the fitness level of the beginner to understand their physical capabilities. This will help you select a trek that is challenging but not too difficult.

2. Choose a well-traveled trail:  A well-traveled trail will have more amenities such as signposts, water stations, and shelter. It is also safer as there will be other hikers on the trail.

3. Consider the length of the trek:  For beginners, it is recommended to start with a shorter trek that can be completed in a day or two. This will help them get acclimatized to trekking and build their confidence.

4. Look for gradual elevation gain:  Choose a trek with a gradual elevation gain rather than steep ascents. This will make the trek easier and more enjoyable.

5. Check the weather:  Check the weather forecast before selecting a trek. Avoid treks during the monsoon season or winter when the trails can be slippery or dangerous.

6. Research the trail:  Read about the trail to get an idea of the terrain, altitude, and difficulty level. This will help you select a trek that is suitable for the beginner.

7. Consult with an expert:  If you are unsure about which trek to choose, consult our trek expert Mr. Nitin (+91 70600 59773) between 10 AM to 6 PM (Tuesday - Friday). Mr. Nitin will provide you valuable advice and guidance.

Overall, it is important to choose a trek that is enjoyable, challenging but not too difficult, and suitable for the beginner's fitness level and experience.

Can a beginner choose a tough trek?

It is not recommended for a beginner to choose a difficult Himalayan trek. Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically and mentally challenging, especially if you are not used to the high altitude, steep slopes, and rugged terrain. Choosing a difficult trek without the proper experience, fitness level, and preparation can be dangerous and put you at risk of altitude sickness, injury, and other hazards.

If you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with an easier trek and gradually build up your skills and experience. This will help you understand the challenges of trekking in the Himalayas, and also prepare you physically and mentally for a more difficult trek in the future. It is also important to choose a trek that matches your fitness level, experience, and interest.

What is the age limit for a beginner trekker?

There is no specific age limit for a beginner trekker. However, it is important to consider your physical fitness, health condition, and personal interests before embarking on a trek. Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically and mentally demanding, and requires a certain level of physical fitness and endurance.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are above a certain age, it is recommended to consult with a doctor before embarking on a trek. It is also important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed during the trek to prevent exhaustion or injury.

If I am solo, can I join the trek in a group?

Yes, you can join the trek. We have fixed departure groups where you can simply book your trek and we will take care of curating a group.

How does my family get updated about my Trek?

Before you start the trek, it is recommended that you make all the necessary phone calls as during the trek you may or may not receive network coverage, once you come back to the Base Camp, you can reconnect with your family via phone once again. You can share your trek coordinator contact detail with your family members to get the latest updates about your trek batch.

What food can I expect?

At TTH, we provide wholesome and nutritious meals during the trek. The food is vegetarian and includes a variety of dishes such as rice, dal, vegetables, chapati, paratha, pasta, noodles, and soup. We also offer snacks such as biscuits, and salty, and dry fruits during the trek. Special dietary requirements such as vegan, gluten-free, or Jain food can also be arranged if informed in advance.

I am allergic to some foods.

If you are allergic to some foods, you need to let us know in advance so that we can make arrangements accordingly.

How safe is trekking with TTH?

TTH is a trekking company that prioritizes the safety of all its participants, including women trekkers. They have a comprehensive safety system in place, which includes a dedicated team of experienced and trained trek leaders and support staff who are equipped to handle emergency situations and provide first aid.

TTH also takes specific measures to ensure the safety and comfort of women trekkers. They have a separate tent accommodation for women trekkers, female trek leaders, and support staff. They also provide separate toilet facilities for women and encourage a safe and respectful environment for all trekkers.

Moreover, TTH has a strict policy against any kind of harassment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents. They have a designated Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to investigate and address any complaints related to harassment or misconduct. Overall, TTH has a good reputation for safety and responsible trekking practices, and women can feel comfortable and safe while trekking with them.

How TTH will manage if I am the only woman in the group?

In case you are the only women in the group, we provide a single sleeping arrangement. Also, during the trek, the trek leader will always remain by your side to provide optimum safety and reassurance.

How can I know that other women are in the batch?

You can reach out to the trek coordinator to inquire about the number of female trekkers and their respective states who have booked the trek. Please note that the trek coordinator cannot disclose personal details of any trekker. Once you've confirmed your booking, a WhatsApp Group will be created for all the trekkers in your batch. This allows you to connect with fellow trekkers before the trek begins.

Can I know in advance, which trek is led by a women Trek Leader?

While many of our treks are led by female trek leaders, however, it is not possible to know which trek leader is assigned to which group. But nonetheless, whether the trek leader is male or female you can be completely assured of your safety and security with us.

Can I trek with periods? If yes, then where can I dispose of the sanitary pad?

Yes, it is possible to trek with periods. However, it is important to take some extra precautions and preparations to ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience.

Here are some tips that can help you trek during your period:

1. Use menstrual hygiene products that you are comfortable with, such as tampons, pads, or menstrual cups. It is recommended to carry enough supplies for the entire duration of the trek.

2. Pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and plastic bags to dispose of used hygiene products.

3. Wear comfortable and breathable clothing that allows for easy movement and reduces friction. Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing that can cause discomfort.

4. Carry pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, in case of menstrual cramps.

5. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your energy levels and overall health.

6. Take breaks as needed and listen to your body. If you feel uncomfortable or experience any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

It is also recommended to consult with a doctor before going on a trek during your period, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication. By taking necessary precautions and being prepared, you can have a safe and comfortable trekking experience even during your period.

We provide proper disposal facilities for sanitary pad disposal during the trek.

How will the accommodation be during the trek?

We offer three person tents with twin-sharing for optimum comfort. A woman trekker will share a tent with another woman trekker and if you are the only woman in the group, you will be given a single accommodation for your comfort and privacy.

Are trek poles, Jackets and other equipment available for rent from Trek The Himalayas?

Yes, we do provide gears on rent. You can book it using you TTH account directly.

Who will be with us on the trek from Trek The Himalayas?

Mountaineering qualified Experienced and first aid certified Trek Leader, First Aid Certify local guide, Cook, helpers and supporting staff.

Who can not join the trek?

People suffering from Bronchitis, Asthma, High blood pressure, Epilepsy (got faints), TB , Heart problem or on higher BMI side are strictly not allowed to go on any Himalayan trek. Apart from this if you had any medical history, please let us know.

When it gets really cold can I consume alcohol?

No. Alcohol and smocking isn’t allowed while on trek. It is totally misconception that it will keep you warm. Your body need to acclimatize properly and for that eat properly and drink enough water; these things will keep you warm.

What type of toilet facility is TTH providing at the trek?

Toilet tents provide a convenient solution for answering nature's call in the great outdoors. Dry toilets, in particular, offer a highly sanitary approach. By digging a pit and utilizing mud and a shovel, you can easily cover up your waste. This method ensures cleanliness and hygiene while camping or exploring in the forest. 

Remember to pack essential toiletries to complete your outdoor bathroom kit and maintain proper personal hygiene during your adventures. With these practices in place, you can enjoy nature while also respecting it.

How do I manage the negative temperatures on the trek at higher camps? Do I need special jackets?

Layer Up From Head To Toe Eat Full Meals, never sleep empty stomach You can keep warmee (if you’re more susceptible to cold). Use sleeping bag in right way and don’t leave free space in sleeping bag.

For upper body – Thermal layer – T-shirt (full-sleeves) – Fleece T-shirt (for extreme colds) – Fleece layer – Thick Jacket/Down Jacket – Waterproof or Windproof layer (outermost layer, when it is snowing or raining) - For Lower Body – Thermal layer – Hiking pants (normal) or Winter hiking pants

Based on how warm you feel you can skip any of the above layers. Your outer later should be windproof since it is windy at high altitude. The idea behind layering is that the more insulation you have the less cold you feel, and instead of wearing a very thick jacket if you wear multiple layers, your body will be better insulated against the cold.

Do you provide crampon/micro spikes and gaiters?

Yes, we provide micro spikes and gaiters, if required.

What documents need to carry on trek?

Mandatory documents: 2 xerox of ID having address (addhar card/driving license), 2 Passport size photographs, hard copy Medical form signed & sealed by doctor, disclaimer form sign by trekker and high altitude insurance.

If we come prior the trek date, Do you provide accommodation?

No. We don’t but we can suggest you good hotel/Stay nearby pick up location.

Do we get enough water for drinking?

Yes, trekker must carry 2 water bottles 1 litre each so they can refill it at campsite for drinking and keep themselves hydrate.

What kind of shoes we should buy for the trek?

You should buy shoes which has these three features –Good grip, Ankle Support and additional water resistant layers. Generally, we advise Quechua Trek 100, MH 500 and MH 100.

What happens if some members of the team need to turn back before the summit?

No one is forced to go on. There is always enough staff to split the party according to need and regroup later at the camp. Most people have no trouble reaching the highest campsite. If some members decide not to climb the final distance they can wait for the climbers to come back down the same way or take a lateral path to the descent route.

What is the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a trekking expedition in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India, which takes you to the source of the Ganges river and the scenic alpine meadow of Tapovan.

How long does the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek take?

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek typically takes around 6-7 days to complete, depending on the route and weather conditions.

What is the best time to do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

The best time to do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is from May to June and September to November when the weather is relatively stable and the snow has melted, making the trek less difficult.

Is previous trekking experience necessary for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

No, previous trekking experience is not necessary for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek , but a good level of fitness is required due to the steep and rocky terrain.

What is the level of physical fitness required for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek requires a good level of physical fitness as the trek involves steep ascents, rocky terrain, and potential altitude sickness. It is recommended to undergo physical training and preparation before attempting the trek.

What permits and paperwork are required for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

To undertake the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, you will need to obtain the necessary permits and paperwork from the Forest Department and the local authorities. These may include a trekking permit, a medical certificate, and a travel visa. It is recommended to research the specific requirements and apply for the permits well in advance to avoid any delays or issues.

What is the altitude of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

The highest point of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is the Tapovan meadow, which stands at an altitude of 4,463 meters (14,640 feet) .

Is it safe to do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

Yes, the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is generally considered safe, but with any trek, there are inherent risks involved. It is important to follow safety guidelines, such as staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, and avoiding overexertion.

What is the accommodation like on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

Accommodation on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek typically includes camping in tents (twin sharing) or basic lodges (triple & quad sharing) male female seprate.

What is the level of difficulty of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is considered to be a moderate to difficult trek due to the steep and rocky terrain, high altitude, and potential for altitude sickness.

Can I do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek solo?

It is recommended to do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek with a certified guide or trekking agency for safety reasons, but it is possible to do it solo if you have previous trekking experience and the necessary equipment and permits.

What is the distance covered on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

The distance covered on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is approximately <strong>45-50 kilometres (28-31 miles)</strong>, depending on the route taken.

What is the level of altitude sickness risk on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek involves significant altitude gain, with the highest point being at an altitude of 4,463 meters (14,640 feet). As a result, there is a risk of altitude sickness for those who are not acclimatized or do not take the necessary precautions. It is recommended to properly acclimatize, stay hydrated, and consult with a doctor before attempting the trek. It is also recommended to have a guide or trekking agency with experience in dealing with altitude sickness.

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Address: Trek The Himalayas, Kaintura Plaza, Badrinath Road Tapovan, Rishikesh - 249201 Uttarakhand

Phone: 8191004846

Email: [email protected]

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Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Gaumukh tapovan trek overview.

One of the most popular treks in the Indian Himalayas, the Gaumukha Tapovan trek is a must-do for any adventure seeker. The trek takes you through some of the most breathtaking views of the Gangotri peaks - Shivling, Thalay Sagar, and Meru, with towering mountains, verdant forests, and gushing rivers.

The Gaumukh Tapovan trek takes you to the cow-shaped Gaumukh glacier. The Gaumukh glacier is also one of the primary water sources of the holy river Ganga. The trek is relatively challenging, but the rewards are more than worth it.

During the Gaumukh Tapovan trek, you can also submerge yourself in the celestial atmosphere of the pilgrimage towns of Rishikesh, Uttarkashi, Gangotri, and Bhojwassa. Wonder at the sight of the Bhagirathi sisters and encounter the breathtaking view of the peak.

It is one of the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand. It is a moderate to difficult trek and takes around 8 days to complete. The best time to do this trek is from May to October. You will see snow-capped peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, lush forests, meadows full of fragrant flowers, and crystal-clear rivers. The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Himalayas.

Book Gaumukh Tapovan Trek Package

Gaumukh tapovan trek, uttarakhand, quick facts of gaumukh tapovan trek.

Maximum Altitude – The maximum altitude is around 14222 meters

Grade – Moderate to Difficult

Duration – The duration lasts for almost 8 days

Trekking distance – The trekking distance is approximately 46 kilometers the entire trek

Trail type – Round Trail, i.e., the trekking starts from Gangotri and also ends in Gangotri

Railhead – The nearest Railhead is Dehradun, Haridwar

Airport – The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Snow Season – Mid-December to Mid-June

Service from – Dehradun to Dehradun

Base camp – Gangotri

Best season – May, June, Mid August to October

Region – Uttarakhand, India

Who can participate – Above 15 years, Have at least one experience of trekking in high altitudes above 12,000 ft.

Short Itinerary for Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Day 1 – Dehradun to Gangotri Drive.

Day 2 – Trek from Gangotri (3,048 m) to Chirbasa (3,600 m) (takes almost 6 hours).

Day 3 – Trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (3,800 m) (takes almost 3 hours). Beyond Chirbasa the terrain becomes truly barren. Many hikers even call it Arctic Tundra.

Day 4 – Trek from Bhojbasa to Gaumukh (3,900 m) to Tapovan (4,335 m) (takes almost 7 hours).

Day 5 – Taking a rest at Tapovan (4,463 m).

Day 6 – Trek from Tapovan to Bhojbasa (takes almost 5-6 hours).

Day 7 – Trek from Bhojbasa to Gangotri (takes almost 5-6 hours).

Day 8 – Trek from Gangotri to Dehradun drive.

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek Detailed Itinerary

Dehradun to Gangotri Drive.

It is a 7/8 hours drive covering a distance of almost 242 km.

From Dehradun we drive to Gangnani via Uttarkashi.

Gangnani is famous for its natural hot water baths.

Drive to Gangotri on this day itself.

Stay overnight in a guest house.

Trek from Gangotri (3,048 m) to Chirbasa (3,600 m).

It is a 9 kms hike in 6 hours.

Today, in the morning, after breakfast, we start our trek from Gangotri to Chirbasa (3,650 m).

The whole trek will lead you through dense forests and you will camp on the bank of a beautiful river.

From Gangotri, we hike on the beaten path to Chirbasa, which is located at a tree line.

The whole of today's trek is along the roaring Bhagirathi River.

You can witness the magnificent sunset over the Bhagirathi group of peaks.

After dinner, enjoy a relaxing stay at the camp.

Spend some time observing the awestruck place surrounded by wonderful towers of Himalayan peaks and tranquil greenery.

Trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa.

It is a 5 km walk in 3-4 hours.

After breakfast, start your trekking from the river of the Ganges.

Beyond Chirbasa the terrain becomes barren and infertile.

Many hikers even call it Arctic Tundra.

From Chirbasa we continue hiking to Bhojwassa, the whole way leads through dense forest.

In Bhojbasa there is a small temple and a possible campsite near the river.

The afternoon is free for us to explore the area and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the peak group of Bhagirathi.

Explore the breathtaking views of Mount Shivling in Bhojbasa.

You have to spend the overnight in tents.

Trek from Bhojbasa to Gaumukh (3,900 m) to Tapovan (4,335 m).

Enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of the Bhagirathi group of peaks early in the morning.

Post breakfast, we will trek to Gaumukh (3,890 m), the source of the Ganga River.

We explore the area and hike to Tapovan, one of the most beautiful high mountain meadows in the region.

The hike from Gaumukh to Tapovan is steeply uphill, and the higher we get, the clearer the view of the surrounding peaks becomes.

They seem to be only a stone's throw away.

It is also a small question of why sadhus and saints chose this place for continued meditation during the long summer months.

Taking a rest at Tapovan (4,463 m)

This day is for getting accustomed to the place, relaxing, and enjoying the stunning snow-capped peaks, flora, fauna, and mountain scenery.

This land is visited by some of the greatest and most popular mountaineers frequently.

The Shivling peak looms ahead. Behind the Shivling, on the right, is Mount Meru.

A little further to the left of the Shivling is the Sumeru.

The Bhagirathi peaks can be seen further to the left.

Bhagirathi III, Meru (Central Peak), and Sumeru have some of the toughest climbing routes in the world.

We can explore the Meru Glacier and then go back to our campsite.

Trek from Tapovan to Bhojbasa

It is a 5-6 hours trek covering a distance of almost 7 km.

Wake up to the stunning sunrise on the high peaks early in the morning.

Post breakfast we will hike down to Bhojbasa.

The day's destination is Bhojwassa, where you will have plenty of time to explore the breathtaking surroundings and forest trails and relax in an exotic setting.

After dinner, we will set up camp in Bhojwassa.

Trek from Bhojbasa to Gangotri.

It is a 5-6 hours trek covering a distance of around 14 km.

We start descending in the morning to Gangotri after breakfast.

Have Dinner and stay overnight in a guest house/ hotel at Gangotri.

Gangotri to Dehradun drive.

It is a 9-hour drive covering a distance of almost 245 km.

Post breakfast, in the early morning, we drive back to Dehradun and arrive in the evening.

End the six days trek nicely and with many good memories.

What to Pack for Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

Good trekking shoes, that have good grip, and ankle support, and can handle snow.

You need a 50-60 litre personal bag. Make certain your bag has good hip support, shoulder support, and quick way in pockets.

Wearing levels is the special power in the mountains. Levels give you the greatest protection from all parts.

You will need 1 pair of inner thermals, 2 light wool levels, 1 light sweater, and 1 soft padded jacket.

An outer padded jacket will keep the wind and cold out. Make certain that your padded jacket has a hood as well.

1- 2 pairs of trek pants should be enough for this long, hard journey.

These are documents needed for lawful purposes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

Original and photocopy of identity card. Anything such as a Driver's License, Aadhar Card, or Passport will do. This is needed by the Forest divisions of an organization for your identification.

Passport-size picture. This is needed to get the trekking permits.

Disclaimer certificate. This is another legal document needed. Download the PDF, read carefully and sign it. This must be handed over to your trek leader during the registration at the base camp.

Medical certificate. There are 2 parts to this. The first part must be filled by a practicing medical expert. The second part must be filled by you. Without the medical certificate, the Forest department will not allow your trekking journey.

General Trivia About Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

The trek is named after the Gaumukh, which is the source of the River Ganges.

The Gaumukh is a glacier that sits at the base of Shivling Mountain.

The entire trek is about 40 kilometers long.

The Gaumukh meadow gets its name from its shape, which resembles that of a cow's head (gau means cow in Hindi).

The Tapovan meadow is known for its natural hot springs, which are said to have medicinal properties.

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is located in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which is home to a large variety of flora and fauna.

The trek provides stunning views of some of the tallest mountains in the world, including the Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Kamet (7,756 m), and Dunagiri (7,066 m).

The trek takes you to the base camp of the Gaumukh glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in the world.

The trek is considered to be one of the most difficult treks in the world and is not for the faint of heart.

The trek takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful places in the world. It is an amazing experience and one that you will never forget.

Know Before You Go to Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is one of the most popular treks in India. It is a stunningly beautiful trek that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. The Gaumukh Tapovan trek is challenging and should only be attempted by experienced trekkers. Here are some important tips for trekkers attempting the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek:

Make sure you are physically fit and prepared for the trek. The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is challenging and is not suitable for beginners. It is a difficult trek and requires a lot of endurance. If you are not used to hiking, it is advisable to start training a few months in advance.

Start your trek from Gangotri. Gangotri is the base camp for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek and is the best starting point for the trek.

Make sure you have all the necessary equipment for the trek. This includes proper hiking boots, a sleeping bag, a first-aid kit, and plenty of food and water.

Hire a qualified guide. A guide can be extremely helpful on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, as they will be familiar with the route and can help you navigate the difficult sections.

Be prepared for the altitude. The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek takes place at high altitudes, so be prepared for the decreased oxygen levels. Make sure to acclimatize before attempting the trek.

Make sure to start the trek early in the morning. This is because the weather can get very hot in the afternoon and you do not want to be hiking in the heat.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Gangotri is Rishikesh, which is 234 km before Gangotri on NH58 and is well connected by a railway network with chief places of India. Trains to Rishikesh are frequent. Taxis and Buses are ready to be used from Rishikesh, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkashi, and many other places where one is going to Gangotri. From Rishikesh, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach Gaumukha Tapovan. The journey by road takes around 8-9 hours.

By Air: The nearest air-plane station to Gangotri is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun which is situated around a distance of 250kms. This air-plane station is well connected to Delhi and there are many daily flights to Delhi which are connected to the chief parts of India.

By Road: Gangotri can be reached only via road in a bus, privately operated jeeps, SUVs/ other vehicles. The journey from Rishikesh takes about 10-12 hours. Taxis/Jeeps are also ready to be used from taxi stations in Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Tourist cabs are ready to be used from Dehradun/Rishikesh. The best way to reach Gaumukha Tapovan is by hiring a taxi or jeep from Rishikesh or Dehradun. The journey takes around 9-10 hours.

• In Summers -

Summer is a popular time for the Gaumukh Tapovan trek, especially for trekkers who enjoy hiking in the snow.

During the summer months, the weather is warm and the skies are clear, providing the ideal conditions for a pleasant and comfortable trek. However, the heat can make the trek more challenging, so be sure to carry plenty of water and sunscreen.

In early summer, snow can be found along the trail. This is also the time when you cross the Bhagirathi River over natural snow bridges. The snow remains until Gaumukh and sometimes even beyond until mid-May.

• In Autumn -

With the transition to autumn, the situation shifts. This is the best season for the Gaumukh-Tapovan trek because then you have an excellent view of the entire valley.

Autumn also brings colors to the trail. The vegetation on the way to Chirbasa turns shades of yellow, brown, and chestnut. The Bhagirathi also turns a deeper shade of blue. Its current is gentler compared to the summers.

• In Winters -

The winter months can see some snowfall at higher altitudes, making the trek more difficult. However, the views are even more stunning with the snow-capped mountains in the background. If you do decide to go during winter, be sure to pack warm clothes and sturdy boots.

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek route starts from the village of Gaumukh and runs through the Tapovan area. The route is well-marked and there are plenty of places to rest and camp along the way. The trekking route takes approximately eight days to complete.

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a great way to see some of the best scenery that Uttarakhand has to offer. The trekking route takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. You will get to see plenty of wildlife along the way, including some rare and endangered species.

The trekking route is also a great way to meet people from all over the world.

Why to Go for Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek in Uttarakhand is everything you could ask for and more.This challenging yet rewarding trek takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Himalayas, with plenty of opportunities to spot rare wildlife and experience traditional village life. It takes you through some of the most pristine and scenic landscapes in the country and offers spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and alpine meadows.The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is not for the faint-hearted – but it is an immensely rewarding experience. If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, this is it.

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FAQs of Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

How difficult is the gaumukh tapovan trek.

On moderately difficult hikes like the Gaumukh Tapovan, you will cover about 8-12 km each day. Hiking to steep climbs and descents is common every day. Here, you have to expect to reach elevations of more than 15,000 feet. There will also be practical portions (e.g. rockfall zones, near vertical sections, glacier walks) that the trek leader will help you overcome.

You should aim to comfortably walk a distance of 5 km in 32 minutes.Your BMI must range from 18.5 to 25 for this trek to remain fit during the entire hike.

Moderate hikes cover about 6-8 km daily. The ascents and descents can be steep. The maximum elevation is between 13,000 feet and 14,000 feet. You will frequently encounter tricky spots (e.g., snow or boulders) that must be walked with some caution. You may also encounter small stream/river crossings.

For strength training, do at least 10 repetitions and 3 sets of squats, planks, push-ups, and lunges.

If you are climbing stairs, take at least 15 floors (20 steps per floor), and do 3 sets again.

Is Gaumukh trek safe?

If you are an experienced trekker, then the Gaumukh trek is safe. The trail is well-marked and there are plenty of other trekkers around, so you will not get lost.However, if you are not used to high altitudes, then this trek may not be for you. Make sure to drink plenty of water and take it slow, especially on the first day.

How do I get permission for Gaumukh Trek?

To get a permit for the Gaumukh Trek, you need to apply through the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN). You can apply for a permit online or in person at the GMVN office in Rishikesh.

When applying for a permit, you will need to provide your details, passport details, and details of your trekking itinerary.

What is the temperature of Gaumukh?

Gomukh is a glacier in the Himalayan Mountains and the temperature can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the weather conditions.

In the summer months, the temperature at Gomukh can be quite warm, reaching into the high 15 degrees Celsius (high 80s Fahrenheit). However, it can also be quite cool in the evenings and early mornings, so it is important to pack appropriate clothing.

In the winter, the temperature at Gomukh can drop below freezing, so it is important to have warm clothing and a good sleeping bag. The best time to visit Gomukh is in the spring or autumn when the weather is more stable.

Does snowfall occur in Gangotri?

The climate in Gangotri is generally cold and snowy. The temperature can drop to -5°C (23°F) in the winter months. So, to answer the question, yes, there is snowfall in Gangotri. If you are planning on visiting this town, make sure you pack your warmest and finest clothes to protect you from the cold.

Is Gaumukh trek open now?

Yes, the Gaumukh trek is open now. This popular trekking destination is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The Gaumukh glacier is the source of the Bhagirathi river, which is a tributary of the Ganges. The trek to Gaumukh is a challenging one and requires a good level of fitness.

Can we go to Gangotri by car?

Gangotri can be reached only via road in a bus, privately operated jeeps, SUVs/ other vehicles. The journey from Rishikesh takes about 12 hours. Taxis/Jeeps are also ready to be used from taxi stations in Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.

Tourist cabs are ready to be used from Dehradun/Rishikesh. The best way to reach Gaumukh Tapovan is by hiring a taxi or jeep from Rishikesh or Dehradun. The journey takes around 8-9 hours.

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Gaumukh Tapovan Trek: The Ultimate Guide to Your Himalayan Adventure

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is not merely a trek; it’s an opportunity to experience the raw beauty of nature coupled with a spiritual awakening. Located in the Indian Himalayas, this trek is a magnet for both devout pilgrims and avid adventurers. Here’s a detailed guide to help you prepare and enjoy every moment of this incredible journey.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and its religious significance, as it trails to the source of the sacred Ganges River. Adventure-seekers will find the trek challenging yet rewarding, with spectacular views of towering mountain peaks and serene meadows.

Trek Overview

Location and route.

Starting from Gangotri, the trek to Tapovan covers rugged terrains, glacier paths, and scenic meadows. The trek typically lasts about 8 to 10 days, covering approximately 46 kilometers round trip. The route passes through significant landmarks like:

• Gangotri : The starting point, a town famous for its temple dedicated to the goddess Ganga.
• Chirbasa and Bhojbasa : Rest stops with basic amenities, offering closer views of the Bhagirathi peaks.
• Gaumukh : The snout of the Gangotri Glacier, where the Ganges River originates.
• Tapovan : Known for its grassy meadows at the base of the Shivling peak, it’s a place of serene beauty and tranquility.

5 Days Gangotri Trip Itinerary from Delhi

Difficulty Level

The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to its high altitude, steep climbs, and the ruggedness of the trail. It is advisable for trekkers to be in good physical shape and have some prior trekking experience.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Climate conditions.

The region experiences a subalpine climate. Summers (May to June) offer moderate temperatures, while post-monsoon months (September to October) provide clear skies and stable weather, ideal for trekking.

Ideal Seasons

• Spring (Late April to June) : The snow begins to melt, and the path becomes accessible.
• Autumn (September to November) : Post-monsoon offers clear views and the lush greenery of the meadows at Tapovan.

Detailed Itinerary

Day-to-day breakdown.

• Day 1 : Gangotri to Chirbasa (9 km)
• Day 2 : Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (5 km)
• Day 3 : Bhojbasa to Gaumukh (4 km), then to Tapovan (4 km)
• Days 4-5 : Explore Tapovan, acclimatization and optional hikes to nearby peaks.
• Day 6 : Tapovan to Bhojbasa (13 km)
• Day 7 : Bhojbasa to Gangotri (14 km), concluding the trek.

Additional Activities

Consider exploring nearby attractions or planning side trips, such as:

• Neel Tal : A small lake near Tapovan, known for its tranquil environment.
• Nandanvan Trek : An extension from Tapovan across the glacier, offering views of the Bhagirathi peaks.

Preparation and Safety Tips

Permits and formalities.

A permit from the Uttarkashi Forest Department is mandatory. Ensure to carry valid ID proofs and necessary documents.

Essential Gear and Supplies

Pack the following essentials:

• High-quality trekking boots and clothing suitable for cold temperatures.
• Camping gear if you plan to camp at designated sites.
• Navigation tools such as a map, compass, and possibly a GPS device.
• Sun protection, first aid kit, and personal medications.

Health and Fitness

Prepare for the trek by engaging in cardiovascular and strength training exercises. Altitude sickness is a risk; gradual acclimatization is important.

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek offers an enchanting mix of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty. It’s a journey that challenges the body and enriches the soul. With careful preparation and respect for nature’s power, trekkers can have a safe and memorable experience. Embrace the journey with an open heart, and let the Himalayas transform you.

Additional Resources for Uttarakhand Treks

For those planning to explore more treks in the Uttarakhand region beyond the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, In our blog, we offer a wealth of information. We covered detailed guides and blog posts about various treks in Uttarakhand, which can be incredibly useful for both novice and experienced trekkers. Here are some highlights from their content that might be of interest:

Top Trekking Places in Uttarakhand

This article provides an overview of the top trekking destinations within Uttarakhand, including less-known trails and popular routes like the Valley of Flowers and Roopkund. It’s a great starting point for those looking to explore diverse trekking options in the region.

Har Ki Dun Trek Guide

A comprehensive guide to the Har Ki Dun Trek, which is known for its rich flora and fauna and stunning mountainous landscapes. This guide covers everything from the best time to visit to essential tips for trekkers.

Tungnath Temple Trekking Route and Travel Tips

Tungnath, one of the highest Shiva temples in the world, offers not just spiritual enrichment but also thrilling trekking routes. This post offers practical travel tips and a detailed route guide.

Complete Guide to Brahmatal Trek

Brahmatal is another fascinating trek in Uttarakhand, known for its beautiful lakes and winter trek routes. This guide provides a thorough overview, including itinerary planning and what to expect on the trek.

Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha is a popular winter trek in Uttarakhand. This article discusses the best times to undertake this trek, focusing on weather conditions and the trek’s unique aspects during different seasons.

Travel Guide to Chopta Valley in Uttarakhand

Chopta Valley serves as a gateway to several treks, including the Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila. This guide provides insights into what makes Chopta a must-visit for trekkers and nature lovers.

These resources provide detailed, practical information that can help plan more comprehensive trekking experiences in Uttarakhand. Whether you’re looking for a serene trek or a challenging adventure, their guides can be a valuable part of your preparation.

About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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Trek to the source of river Ganga

Gaumukh tapovan trek, via gangotri.

Sept & Oct

₹14999+ 5% GST

“not all those who wander are lost.”, haridwar to joshimath.

+ Rs. 2000 Transport

+ Rs. 3500 Backpack Offloading + Rs. 330 Outdoor Insurance

Difficulty Level - 4

 uttarakhand 8 days - 46 km, batches: sept & oct 2023, up to 15% off in may-jun batches for a limited period ✨.

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a popular trekking route in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It takes you to the source of the River Ganges, known as Gaumukh, and the scenic meadows of Tapovan. Here's some information about the trek:

Location: The trek starts from Gangotri, a town located in th e Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. Gangotri is approximately 250 kilometers from the state capital, Dehradun.

Duration: The trek typically takes around 8-9 days to complete, including travel from Gangotri to Gangotri.

Difficulty Level: The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is considered moderately complex. It involves steep ascents, rocky terrains, and altitude gain. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.

Highlights:

Gaumukh: Gaumukh is the snout of the Gangotri Glacier, which is the origin of the River Ganges. It is an important pilgrimage site and holds great religious significance for Hindus.

Tapovan: Tapovan is a stunning alpine meadow at an altitude of around 4,463 meters (14,640 feet). It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the mighty Shivling Peak.

Scenic Beauty: The trek offers mesmerizing views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and the gushing Bhagirathi River. You'll come across beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna throughout the journey.

Spiritual Significance: The trek is considered sacred by Hindus due to its association with the River Ganges. Many pilgrims undertake this trek to seek spiritual blessings and experience the pristine natural beauty.

Best Time to Trek: The ideal time for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is from May to October, during the summer and autumn seasons. The weather is relatively stable and the trails are more accessible during this period.

Equipment: Trekking gear such as sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, a backpack, a sleeping bag, and trekking poles are essential. It is also advisable to carry sufficient food, water, and personal medical supplies.

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek Itinerary

Gangotri (3,415M) to Chirbasa (3,600M) - 9 km

Welcome to Day 1 of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek! This trek takes you through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India. Get ready for an adventure-filled journey that will lead you to the source of the sacred River Ganges and provide breathtaking views of majestic peaks.

Your trek begins at Gangotri, a small town located at an altitude of 3,048 meters (10,000 feet). Gangotri is famous for its ancient temple dedicated to the River Ganges. From Gangotri, the trail gradually ascends through lush forests of pine and birch trees.

The first leg of your trek takes you to Chirbasa, situated at an elevation of approximately 3,580 meters (11,745 feet). It is a moderate walk that covers around 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) and takes about 4-5 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll catch glimpses of the Bhagirathi peaks and the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you.

Chirbasa serves as a perfect spot for acclimatization. You'll find a few tea stalls and basic guesthouses here. Take some time to relax, enjoy the serene surroundings, and prepare yourself for the next day's trek.

As you continue your journey, Day 1 ends at Chirbasa, and you can spend the evening exploring the area, interacting with fellow trekkers, and relishing a hot meal. Ensure you drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day to combat the effects of high altitude.

Remember to respect the environment and follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any waste you generate and be mindful of the fragile ecosystem you are entering.

Prepare your gear for the next day, as you will be heading towards Bhojbasa, which is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,800 meters (12,470 feet). This leg of the trek offers stunning views of the Bhagirathi peaks and the opportunity to witness the glacier-fed River Bhagirathi.

Wishing you a fantastic start to your Gaumukh Tapovan Trek! Enjoy the scenic beauty and the thrill of the mountains.

Day 2: Chirbasa (3,600M) to Bhojwasa (3,775M) - 5 km

Welcome to Day 2 of your Gaumukh Tapovan Trek! Today, you will continue your journey from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa, covering a distance of approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles). This leg of the trek will take you closer to the mighty Gangotri Glacier and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

After a good night's rest in Chirbasa, wake up early in the morning to witness the stunning sunrise illuminating the mountains. Begin your trek by following the well-marked trail that winds through the picturesque landscape.

As you ascend, you'll notice the vegetation becoming sparser, and the terrain becoming rockier. The trail takes you alongside the River Bhagirathi, which flows from the Gangotri Glacier. The sight of the glacial river gushing down the valley is awe-inspiring.

After walking for about 2-3 hours, you'll reach the destination for the day—Bhojbasa. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,775 meters (12,385 feet), Bhojbasa is a small settlement offering basic accommodation and a few tea stalls.

Bhojbasa provides an excellent vantage point to witness the massive Gangotri Glacier, the source of the River Ganges. The glacier, with its icy crevasses and massive ice formations, is a sight to behold. Take some time to soak in the beauty and grandeur of this natural wonder.

Spend the rest of the day exploring the surroundings, relaxing, and acclimatizing to the higher altitude. It is crucial to listen to your body and give it enough time to adjust to the changing altitude to avoid altitude sickness.

Remember to stay hydrated, drink plenty of water, and consume a nutritious diet. Take precautions against the sun as the higher altitudes can be harsh on the skin. Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and protect yourself from the strong UV rays.

In the evening, enjoy a warm meal at one of the local tea stalls and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the mountains. The night sky at Bhojbasa is often adorned with a blanket of stars, offering a magical experience for stargazers.

Ensure you have a good night's sleep and recharge for the next day's trek, which will take you even closer to the mythical Gaumukh, the snout of the Gangotri Glacier.

Remember to respect the environment and follow the principles of responsible trekking. Leave no trace, carry back any waste, and be mindful of the fragile ecosystem you are traversing.

Wishing you an incredible journey as you continue towards Gaumukh on Day 3 of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek!

Day 3: Bhojwasa (3,775M) to Tapovan (4,460M) via Gomukh (4,025M) - 14 km Trek

Welcome to Day 3 of your Gaumukh Tapovan Trek! Today's trek will take you from Bhojbasa to Tapovan, a high-altitude meadow situated at an elevation of approximately 4,460 meters (14,632 feet). Along the way, you will visit Gaumukh, the snout of the Gangotri Glacier and a significant pilgrimage site.

Start your day early, as you have a long and challenging trek ahead. From Bhojbasa, the trail gradually ascends towards Gaumukh. The initial section will take you through moraine and rocky terrain as you approach the glacier.

After walking for a few hours, you'll reach Gaumukh, which literally means "Cow's Mouth" in Hindi. It is named so because the glacier's terminus resembles a cow's snout. Gaumukh holds immense religious significance for Hindus and is considered the source of the sacred River Ganges.

Take some time to marvel at the impressive glacier and the stunning surroundings. The glacier's icy expanse, jagged peaks, and the sound of the flowing river create a surreal atmosphere.

Beyond Gaumukh, the trail continues to ascend towards Tapovan. This section of the trek involves negotiating some challenging terrain, including moraines, boulders, and steep inclines. The altitude also adds to the difficulty, so it's important to maintain a slow and steady pace, allowing your body to adjust to the thin air.

As you climb higher, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi group of peaks. The serene beauty of the surrounding Himalayan landscape will leave you spellbound.

After a strenuous yet rewarding trek, you'll finally reach Tapovan, your destination for the day. Tapovan is a vast meadow nestled amidst towering mountains and offers a majestic view of the peaks. It is also renowned for its spiritual ambiance and is considered a meditative place by many yogis and sadhus.

Settle into your campsite at Tapovan, enjoy a warm meal, and soak in the tranquility of this remarkable place. Take some time to explore the surroundings, witness the vibrant colors of the alpine flowers, and capture the memories of this awe-inspiring location.

Ensure you stay hydrated, continue acclimatizing to the altitude, and listen to your body. It's essential to give yourself enough time to adjust and avoid any symptoms of altitude sickness.

At night, be prepared for a cold and starry sky. The clear mountain air and lack of light pollution make Tapovan an ideal spot for stargazing. Witness the twinkling constellations and perhaps even catch a glimpse of shooting stars.

Congratulations on reaching Tapovan and completing the challenging trek to Gaumukh! Take this opportunity to rest, recharge, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas.

Day 4: Tapovan (4,460M) to Bhojwasa (3,775M) - 6 km

Welcome to Day 4 of your Gaumukh Tapovan Trek! Today, you will begin your descent from Tapovan back to Bhojbasa, retracing your steps through the magnificent Himalayan landscape.

After spending a peaceful night surrounded by the grandeur of Tapovan, wake up early to witness the sunrise painting the peaks with hues of gold. Take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of the surroundings before starting your trek.

The trail descends gradually, offering you a different perspective of the mountains and glaciers you encountered on your way up. As you make your way back, cherish the memories of the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment that came with conquering the challenging terrain.

While descending, remember to maintain a steady pace and be cautious while traversing any rocky or uneven sections of the trail. Take breaks as needed to rest, hydrate, and capture the last glimpses of the mesmerizing landscapes.

After approximately 3-4 hours of trekking, you'll arrive back at Bhojbasa. This will be a welcome sight as you return to a familiar place and lower altitude. Take a moment to relax and reflect on the incredible journey you've undertaken over the past few days.

Spend the rest of the day at Bhojbasa, indulging in a well-deserved rest. Rejuvenate yourself by taking in the natural beauty around you and relishing a warm meal at one of the tea stalls. Use this time to bond with fellow trekkers and share stories of your adventures in the mountains.

In the evening, you can take a stroll around Bhojbasa, capturing any last moments of the scenic landscape before bidding farewell to this serene haven.

As you prepare for your final night on the trek, take the opportunity to express gratitude for the remarkable experiences and memories you've gathered throughout the journey. Make sure to get a good night's sleep, as tomorrow you will make your way back to Gangotri, concluding your Gaumukh Tapovan Trek.

Remember to continue practicing responsible trekking, leaving no trace of your presence in these pristine mountains. Preserve the beauty of the environment for future generations to enjoy.

Wishing you a peaceful and restful night at Bhojbasa, as you savor the final moments of your incredible trekking adventure!

Day 5: Bhojwasa (3,775M) to Gangotri (3,415M) - 14 km

Welcome to the final day of your Gaumukh Tapovan Trek! Today, you will make your way back from Bhojbasa to Gangotri, concluding your memorable adventure in the Garhwal Himalayas.

After a refreshing night's rest in Bhojbasa, wake up early and prepare for the final leg of your trek. Begin your descent from Bhojbasa, bidding farewell to the mesmerizing views and serene ambiance of the high-altitude meadow.

The trail back to Gangotri is approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) long and will take around 6-7 hours to complete. As you descend, you'll retrace your steps through the scenic landscapes, crossing the rocky terrains and picturesque sections you encountered on your way up.

While descending, be cautious of any loose rocks or uneven surfaces along the trail. Take your time and maintain a steady pace, allowing yourself to enjoy the surroundings one last time. As you make your way down, you'll notice the gradual change in vegetation, with the forested sections becoming denser.

As you approach Gangotri, the sound of the River Bhagirathi will grow louder, welcoming you back to the town. The sight of the charming town nestled in the Himalayas will bring a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.

Upon reaching Gangotri, take a moment to appreciate the significance of this sacred place. Visit the famous Gangotri Temple, dedicated to the River Ganges, and offer your prayers or pay your respects, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere.

Afterward, take some time to relax and unwind in Gangotri. Explore the town, interact with the locals, and perhaps indulge in some local cuisine to celebrate the successful completion of your trek.

Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you've gathered over the past few days, cherishing the stunning vistas, challenging trails, and the sense of connection with nature. Take pride in your accomplishment, knowing that you have explored and experienced the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.

As you bid farewell to Gangotri, remember to respect the environment and local culture. Dispose of any waste responsibly and leave the town as pristine as you found it.

Congratulations on completing the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek! May the memories of this adventure stay with you forever, serving as a reminder of your strength, resilience, and the beauty of the natural world. Safe travels, and may you embark on many more incredible journeys in the future !

What's Included

Food as per menu on the trek (Starting Dinner on Day 1 till Packed Lunch on Day 5)

Exhaustive First Aid kit including Oxygen cylinder

Forest Permits/Camping Charges, if any (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)

Dome tents - on twin sharing basis, Sleeping bags, mats

Micro-spikes, Gaiters, Helmets, if required

Trek guide, cook, helpers, and porters for carrying common supplies

Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification along with special rescue course from NIM, Uttarkashi

What's Not-Included

Portage of personal bags during the trek

Cost of any kind of Travel Insurance.

Any Expense of personal nature.

Any Expenses not specified in the inclusions list.

Essentials to carry

When embarking on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, it is important to pack the necessary gear and supplies to ensure a safe and comfortable journey in the high-altitude Himalayan region. Here is a list of essential items to carry:

1. Clothing: - Warm and waterproof jacket - Insulated down or synthetic jacket - Thermal base layers (tops and bottoms) - Fleece or softshell jacket - Trekking pants and/or convertible pants - T-shirts or trekking shirts - Waterproof and breathable pants - Warm hat or beanie - Gloves or mittens - Hiking socks (wool or synthetic blend) - Trekking boots or sturdy hiking shoes - Gaiters (optional, for added protection against snow or debris)

2. Equipment: - Backpack (30-40 liters) for carrying your personal belongings - Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures - A sleeping pad or mat for insulation and comfort - Trekking poles for stability and support - Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries - Sunglasses with UV protection - Sun hat or cap - Water bottle or hydration bladder (1-2 liters capacity) - Personal first aid kit including essential medications, bandages, and blister treatment - Swiss army knife or multi-tool - Trekking map and compass or GPS device - Whistle for emergency signaling - Lightweight and quick-drying towel

3. Personal Care and Hygiene: - Sunscreen with a high SPF rating - Lip balm with UV protection - Insect repellent - Wet wipes or hand sanitizer - Toilet paper or tissue paper - Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)

4. Food and Snacks: - Energy bars or snacks for quick and convenient energy boosts - Electrolyte powder or tablets to replenish lost minerals during exertion

5. Miscellaneous: - Camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning landscapes - Portable power bank or extra batteries for electronic devices - Cash in small denominations for any purchases or emergencies

Remember to pack your belongings in a waterproof and lightweight manner, and only carry what is necessary to keep your backpack as light as possible. Additionally, check the weather forecast and consult with your trekking operator or guide for any specific gear or equipment recommendations.

It is important to note that this list is a general guideline, and you should adapt it based on your personal needs, preferences, and the specific requirements of the trek.

Here are some popular questions and their answers about the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek:

1. How long does the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek take?

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek typically takes around 5 to 7 days to complete, depending on your pace and itinerary. This includes the trek from Gangotri to Gaumukh, Tapovan, and the return journey.

2. What is the best time to do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

The best time to undertake the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is during the summer months from May to June and September to October. These months offer favorable weather conditions with moderate temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for trekking.

3. Is prior trekking experience necessary for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?

Prior trekking experience is not mandatory for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, but it is advisable to have a reasonable level of fitness and stamina. The trek involves moderate to difficult sections, and being physically prepared will enhance your experience.

4. What are the permits required for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?  

To trek to Gaumukh and Tapovan, you will need to obtain permits from the Forest Department and the Gangotri National Park. It is essential to check the latest guidelines and obtain the necessary permits before starting your trek.

5. Are there any accommodation options available during the trek?  

There are basic accommodation options available at certain stops along the trek route, such as Chirbasa and Bhojbasa. These accommodations usually offer dormitory-style rooms or tents for trekkers. It is recommended to carry your own sleeping bag for added comfort.

6. What are the highlights of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?  

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek offers several highlights, including the sacred Gaumukh Glacier, which is the source of the River Ganges. The trek also provides stunning views of peaks like Shivling, Meru, and the Bhagirathi group. Additionally, the serene meadows of Tapovan and the spiritual ambiance of Gangotri add to the trek's appeal.

7. How challenging is the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?  

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is considered moderately to difficult in terms of difficulty. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and the challenges of high altitude. It is recommended to have a good level of fitness, prior trekking experience, and proper acclimatization to tackle the trek comfortably.

8. Is it safe to trek to Gaumukh Tapovan?  

With proper preparation, guidance, and adherence to safety precautions, the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek can be undertaken safely. It is important to trek with a knowledgeable guide or join an organized trekking group. Acclimatization, proper gear, staying hydrated, and following trekking guidelines are crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Please note that the above information is a general guide, and it's always advisable to do thorough research and consult with experienced trekking operators or local authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information before planning your Gaumukh Tapovan Trek.

Travel Around The World Blog

Exploring the Majesty of the Himalayas: A Guide to Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a hiking trail situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. It takes hikers through scenery, high altitude meadows and towering mountains providing a Himalayan experience. The main attractions of the trek include reaching Gaumukh, the tip of the Gangotri Glacier and Tapovan, a meadow surrounded by peaks.

Regarded as a trek, in the Indian Himalayas the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is highly valued in the world of Himalayan trekking. It draws enthusiasts and nature admirers from across the globe because of its beauty, spiritual significance and challenging rewarding terrain. The trek presents a chance to explore the wilderness of Garhwal region and witness the unspoiled magnificence of the Himalayas.

In this article we will explore the enchanting realm of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek providing readers with a guide to embark on this journey. From hiking schedules and practical advice to insights, into encountering natural marvels along the way readers can anticipate gaining valuable knowledge and motivation for planning their expedition to this Himalayan treasure.

Getting Started for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

1.   overview of the trek route and duration:.

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek typically spans over 6-7 days, covering a distance of approximately 40-45 kilometres round trip. The journey begins at Gangotri, the base camp for the trek, and follows a picturesque route along the banks of the Bhagirathi River. Trekkers traverse through enchanting forests, rustic villages, and rugged terrain before reaching the iconic Gaumukh Glacier and Tapovan meadows, where the views of towering peaks are simply breathtaking.

2.   Best Time to Visit Gaumukh Tapovan:

The best time to embark on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is during the summer months, from May to June, and the post-monsoon season, from September to October. During these periods, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. However, it’s essential to avoid the monsoon season (July to August) due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides.

3.   Permits and Permissions Required for the Trek:

Trekkers planning to undertake the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek need to obtain permits and permissions from the Forest Department of Uttarakhand. These permits can be obtained at the Gangotri National Park entrance gate in Gangotri. Additionally, trekkers are required to carry valid identification proof, such as an Aadhar card or passport, for verification purposes during the trek.

4.   Preparing for the Trek: Physical Fitness and Training Tips:

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek involves moderate to strenuous levels of physical exertion, including long hours of trekking at high altitudes. Therefore, trekkers need to prepare themselves physically and mentally before embarking on the journey. Some training tips include regular cardio exercises, strength training, and endurance workouts to build stamina and resilience. Additionally, practising hiking on uneven terrain and gradually increasing the duration and intensity of workouts can help prepare trekkers for the challenges of the trek. It’s also crucial to stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and get adequate rest before the trek to ensure optimal performance and enjoyment during the journey.

Day-by-Day Itinerary of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Day 1: arrival in gangotri and acclimatization.

• Upon arrival in Gangotri, trekkers will have a day to acclimatise to the high altitude and prepare for the trek ahead.
• Activities may include exploring the town, visiting the Gangotri Temple, and resting to adjust to the altitude.

Day 2: Trek from Gangotri to Chirbasa

• The trek begins with a scenic trail from Gangotri to Chirbasa, covering a distance of approximately 9 kilometres.
• Trekkers will traverse through dense forests of pine and deodar trees, with views of the Bhagirathi River accompanying them along the way.

Day 3: Trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa

• Continuing the journey, trekkers will trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa, covering a distance of around 5 kilometres.
• The trail offers stunning views of the Bhagirathi peaks and the surrounding Himalayan landscape, with the majestic Shivling peak dominating the skyline.

Day 4: Trek from Bhojbasa to Gaumukh and Onwards to Tapovan

• This challenging day involves trekking from Bhojbasa to Gaumukh, the source of the Ganges River, and onwards to Tapovan.
• Trekkers will witness the awe-inspiring sight of the Gangotri Glacier at Gaumukh before ascending to the serene meadows of Tapovan, surrounded by towering peaks.

Day 5: Exploration Day at Tapovan and Return to Bhojbasa

• Day 5 is reserved for exploring the enchanting landscapes of Tapovan, with options for short hikes and photography sessions amidst the Himalayan panorama.
• Later in the day, trekkers will descend back to Bhojbasa to rest and rejuvenate for the journey ahead.

Day 6: Trek Back to Gangotri and Departure

• On the final day of the trek, trekkers will trek back from Bhojbasa to Gangotri, completing the circuit.
• After reaching Gangotri, trekkers will bid farewell to the majestic Himalayas and depart for their onward journey, carrying cherished memories of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek.

Highlights of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

1.   stunning landscapes and himalayan vistas along the trekking route.

• The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek offers trekkers breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape, including snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and meandering rivers.
• Trekkers will traverse through diverse terrain, ranging from dense forests and alpine meadows to rugged mountain passes, each offering its unique charm and beauty.

2.   Encounter with the Gangotri Glacier at Gaumukh

• One of the major highlights of the trek is the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Gangotri Glacier, which originates from the snout known as Gaumukh.
• Trekkers will marvel at the sheer size and grandeur of the glacier, as well as the pristine blue hues of the ice, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience.

3.   Spiritual Significance of Tapovan and Its Serene Ambiance

• Tapovan holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, as it is believed to be the meditation site of several sages and saints.
• The serene ambiance of Tapovan, nestled amidst towering peaks and surrounded by pristine nature, offers trekkers a sense of peace and tranquillity that is truly rejuvenating.

4.   Flora and Fauna Sightings During the Trek

• Throughout the trek, trekkers will have the opportunity to encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna endemic to the Himalayan region.
• From vibrant wildflowers and aromatic herbs to elusive Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep, mountain goats, and various bird species, the trek offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of the Himalayas.

Challenges and Rewards for Trekking Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

1.   physical challenges encountered during the trek.

• The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek presents trekkers with various physical challenges, including long hours of trekking over rugged terrain and steep ascents and descents.
• The high altitude and unpredictable weather conditions can also pose challenges, requiring trekkers to acclimatise properly and be prepared for changes in weather.

2.   Rewards of the Trek: Breathtaking Views and Personal Growth

• Despite the challenges, the trek offers numerous rewards, including unparalleled views of the Himalayan peaks, pristine alpine meadows, and cascading waterfalls.
• The sense of accomplishment and personal growth that comes from completing the trek, pushing physical and mental boundaries, and overcoming obstacles is immeasurable.

3.   Testimonials from Trekkers Sharing Their Experiences

• Many trekkers who have embarked on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek have shared their experiences and testimonials, highlighting the beauty of the landscape, the camaraderie among fellow trekkers, and the sense of fulfilment upon reaching the summit.
• These testimonials serve as inspiration for aspiring trekkers, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of the trek and encouraging others to embark on their Himalayan adventure.

Physical Challenges Encountered During the Trek

Rewards of the trek: breathtaking views and personal growth, testimonials from trekkers sharing their experiences, cultural insights at gaumukh tapovan trek, interactions with local communities along the trekking route.

• One of the enriching aspects of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is the opportunity to interact with local communities residing along the trekking route.
• Trekkers can engage with villagers, learn about their traditional lifestyles, and gain insights into the unique culture and customs of the Himalayan region.

Significance of Gangotri in Hindu Mythology and Religious Practices

• Gangotri holds immense significance in Hindu mythology as it is believed to be the origin of the sacred River Ganges, also known as Ganga.
• According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Ganga descended from heaven to earth at Gangotri, making it a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus. Pilgrims visit Gangotri to pay homage to the goddess and take a holy dip in the icy waters of the Bhagirathi River.

Cultural Experiences During the Trek

• Throughout the trek, trekkers will encounter various cultural experiences that highlight the rich heritage and spirituality of the region.
• From visiting ancient temples and shrines to witnessing traditional ceremonies and rituals performed by local communities, the trek offers a glimpse into the deeply ingrained cultural fabric of the Himalayas.

Conclusion: A Guide to Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Embarking on the Gaumukh Tapovan trek is a journey that takes you through the breathtaking scenery of the Himalayas from lush forests, to majestic peaks and peaceful meadows. We welcome you to join us on this adventure, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty and spiritual essence of this trek. As we come to the end of this chapter we are grateful for the chance to discover the grandeur of the Himalayas and for the moments we’ve shared during our exploration.

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About Gomukh Tapovan

Gomukh  is a famous Hindu holy place and a very good trekking destination. The Gomukh trek is an  18 km  trek that starts from Gangotri situated in ‘ The Greater Himalayas’  that lies in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The difficulty of the Gomukh trek is  moderate  but you should be prepared before trekking to get things easier.

GEOGRAPHY OF GAUMUKH:

Gomukh is the source of the ‘Bhagirathi River and one of the primary sources of the Ganges River. Gaumukh is located at a height of 13,200 ft (4023 m)  in Uttarkashi district in the state of Uttarakhand, INDIA. Gomukh is the second-largest glacier in India after ‘Siachin’ having a length of  30 km  and a width of  4 km.

GAUMUKH/GOMUKH is  18 km  from Gangotri situated in the foothills of Bhagirathi at a height of  4255m  in Uttarkashi district in the state of Uttarakhand, INDIA. It is the mouth of Gangotri Glacier and the speed of the Gangotri river is comparably high.

GAUMUKH TREK:

Gaumukh Trek permit :

If you are planning for the Gomukh trek, you’ll have to take permission from  District Forest Officer(DFO) , Uttarkashi. Per day only  150  permits are issued. From Gangotri, the Gomukh trial begins, and the distance of the trail is about  18 km (11.2 mi)  from Gangotri to Gomukh.

How to get Gaumukh Trek Permit:

Getting permits for Gomukh is very easy and simple. You just have to fill out the form given to you by the office you visited to take a permit. The permit for Gaumukh Trek can be taken from two places ;

• DM Office Uttarkashi. The DFO is located near the bus stand which is easily accessible.
• Forest Office Gangotri.
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Documents Required and Fees:

To take a Gomukh trek permit one should have proof of Identity ( pan card, adhaar card, or Voter ID) . And you’ll have to pay a fee of  Rs. 150 per person. The Forest Office Gangotri remains open all days including Sundays but DM Office Uttarkashi is closed on Sundays.

And the permit fee for international persons is Rs. 600  per person

Gomukh permit duration:

It is valid for 2 days only but the duration can be extended if you plan to trek to Tapovan.

Gomukh accommodation:

It is not possible to stay at Gomukh as there is no place to stay there, you can stay in ‘ Bhojbasa ’ at  GMVN Bungalow, Lalbaba’s ashram, or at Ram baba ashram  both ashram charge  Rs 350  per day also includes food and logging.

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You’ll have the permit with you so now let’s get brief about your trek. The trek has four major points that come on the route; Gangotri  (9 km)  Chirbasa  (5 km)  Bhojbasa  (4 km)                                            Gaumukh =  (18 km).

And we can say the trek difficulty is moderate but it can be challenging at some points. It is not very difficult to find a starting point as Gangotri is not a very big town. For your reference, the trek begins 100 behind the Gangotri Temple, you’ll have to climb the stairs to reach the starting point of the trek.

Entry for the trekkers and visiter’s allowed after 6:00 am  in the morning.

The navigation of the trek is easy as it is properly marked to Gomukh. You’ll get all the instructions between the trail. If you are trekking for the first time, we suggest you take a guide along with you for your safety and convenience.

Essential Items to carry for the Trek:

• Good trekking shoes
• Water bottle
• Snacks or dry fruits
• First Aid and insect repellent

Gomukh Trek Itinerary:

Assuming your starting point is Delhi, the following itinerary is helpful for a trip from Gangotri to Gomukh. If your starting point is a different journey from Delhi to Gangotri will be different and the rest of the trip from Gangotri is still remain the same.

• Delhi – Rishikesh (Day 1)
• Rishikesh – Gangotri (Day 2)
• Gangotri – Chirbasa – Bhojbasa ( Day 3)
• Bhojbasa – Gomukh return Bhojbasa – Chirbasa – Gangotri (Day 4)
• Gangotri – Rishikesh (Day 5)
• Rishikesh – Delhi (Day 6)

And if you’re planning to a trek to Tapovan you need to extend the permit and a local guide will be preferred for the trek.

• Gangotri – Bhojbasa ( Day 3)
• Bhojbasa – Gomukh – Tapovan (Day 4)
• Tapovan – Bhojbasa (Day 5)
• Bhojbasa – Gangotri (Day 6)
• Gangotri – Rishikesh (Day 7)
• Rishikesh – Delhi (Day 8)

Best time for Gomukh Trekking:

It is suggested that you can trek two seasons a year. In summer from mid-May – the end of June .

And in autumn from  mid-September to the end of October.

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Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

₹20,085  (flat 40% off), ₹ 15,450, (gangotri to gangotri), service tax @ 5% (gst),  + single tent occupancy: ₹ 2,000,  + backpack offloading: ₹ 2,400,  + ftg (100% refundable*): ₹ 3,000, batch availability.

• Overview & Itinerary

The word “Gaumukh" (Gau = Cow, Mukh = Mouth) literally means "Mouth of a Cow." According to legends, earlier the snout exactly looked like the "Mouth of a Cow." The word “Tapovan” (Tapo = Spiritual Practice, Van = Forest). Tapovan then translates to the forest of severities or spiritual practice.

Gaumukh is one of the primary headstreams of the Holy Ganges River which is situated at a height of 12,795 ft. in Uttarkashi District in the state of Uttrakhand. Gaumukh is 18 km from Gangotri Temple in the foothills of Bhagirathi. It is the snout of the Gangotri Glacier. The Bhagirathi River here is pretty speedy. Around the snout, nature presents a wild topography. There are many boulders scattered here and there with some pieces of broken snow, along with the hard clayey snow of the glacier. Little before Gaumukh, the majestic view of Mt. Shivling welcomes the trekkers. The trek to Tapovan, Nandanvan, Vasuki Tal, etc. starts from here. Tapovan is an area full of meadows, streams, and flowering plants, and meadows are considered one of the best high-altitude meadows in India. Tapovan is the base camp for several mountaineering expeditions including Shivling peak, Bhagirathi peak, etc.

Best time to visit:  May-June and September-October. Expect hiking in the snow at the beginning of May. September and October are pleasant times to trek here. After October, it is generally not advisable to trek alone due to the extreme cold. After November, expect heavy snow in the area.

Trek Itinerary

The drive from Dehradun to Gangotri passes through the Uttarkashi, Mussoorie and the popular villages of Gorsali, Bhatwari, Harshil, and Dharali. Gangotri is the base camp for the Vasuki Tal trek. The shrine of Gangotri is surrounded by deodars and pines forest. Gangotri is one of the four pilgrimages in the Chota Char Dham circuit of Garhwal Himalayas and the source of river Ganga (the actual source being Gomukh) which is known as Bhagirathi here, 10-11 hours’ drive from Dehradun. Transport will be arranged at an additional cost from Dehradun Railway Station at 06:30 AM.  Cost of Cab – Rs. 8,000/- per vehicle.  After relaxing, we shall visit the Holy Gangotri Devi temple for prayers, roaming the local market, striking a conversation with a Sadhu, exploring the secret cave and learn a few words of the local language; it is appreciated and often results in getting more than the experience. Before having the delicious dinner, we will have a team introduction session and briefing about tomorrow's trek after dinner.

The very first day of the Gaumukh-Tapovan trek starts from Gangotri to Chirbasa, which takes about 5-6 hours to reach there. It is a beautiful trek with mountains surrounding you and Ganga flowing below. Around Chirbasa (Chir: Pine, basa: Residence), you get superb views of Manda peak, Bhrigu Parvat, Bhagirathi I, II and III. Overnight stay in tents.

Wake up to spectacular fluorescent views of sun rays on mountain peaks, and get ready to slog again. After 3 km of Chirbasa comes the dangerous Gila Pahar, the place well known for the landslides. Bhojbasa is the only night halting-place on the trek with buildings. Bhojbasa named after birch (Bhojpatra) forests in the area. It is presently totally denuded of the Bhoj Patra trees. Overnight stay in tents.

The trek from Bhojbasa to Khada Patthar is quite difficult. It is a fairly gradual ascent. The first 200 meters trail from Bhojbasa is slightly steep, and it merges to trail from Gangotri to Gaumukh. At Gaumukh: snout, where river Bhagirathi emerges from Gangotri glacier, starts its journey. It flows down the slopes of the mountain and merges with tributaries, and become Holy Ganges. This is the place where Hindus believe the Ganges take birth. From here the trek will start more difficult. The glacier is covered by moraine so you do not need any technical equipment, although a steadying trekking pole is definitely handy. Take the final leg up the steep rocky path to enter the Tapovan meadow and view the spectacular sight all around you. Tapovan is surrounded by Bhagirathi peaks on one side, and imposing Shivling peak and Meru peaks on the other. From here, Khada Patthar is 1 Km away. Overnight stay in tents.

Get up early to see the spectacular sight of the sunrise on the surrounding 6,000 meters peaks. You would be rewarded with amazing views of first rays of sun falling on Shivling, Kedar Dome and Kharcha Kund peaks. The theatre of nature here is vast and limitless. Imagine standing at a meadow just beneath the stone feet of Bhagirathi peaks, which also happen to be a plateau overlooking Gangotri glacier flowing to Gaumukh, and with meadows of Tapovan on the other side. And just above Tapovan is majestic Shivling peak with Meru peak on its right (toward North). And turn your neck a bit towards South West, you will get a glimpse of Kirti glacier, and then see the smooth peak of Kedar Dome hiding Kedar peaks behind it. Next to the Dome is intricate-looking Kharcha Kund peak. Turn your neck a bit left and you are seeing again the Gangotri glacier coming from somewhere far away. Today you will retrace your steps to Bhojbasa. Below the glacier, a steep descent is followed by the glacier’s rocky path and gradual descent to Bhojbasa. Overnight stay in tents.

Today is the final day of the Gaumukh-Tapovan Trek. The trek involves a gradual descent and easy walk which can be done rapidly. Get up comfortably and have breakfast, trek to Gangotri to witness the famous Ganga Aarti at the Holy Gangotri Devi Temple. This should not be missed. The original temple was constructed by the Nepalese General Amar Singh Thapa. Every year thousands of people visit this shrine from all around the world. A number of Dharamshalas and Ashrams are located on the other side of the river. It is believed that Raja Bhagirath used to worship Shiva on a slab of rock "Bhagirath Shila”, situated near the temple for salvation or Moksha of the souls of his 60,000 sons. Submerged in the river, there is a natural Shivling where, according to mythology, Goddess Ganga descended when Lord Shiva released the mighty river from the locks of his hair. Spend the entire day exploring this fascinating town. Relax in the peaceful surroundings of the gushing river. We would stay overnight.

Depart from Gangotri to Dehradun Railway Station early in the morning, preferably before 06:30 AM since the journey takes 10-11 hours. Expected to reach Dehradun by 07:00 PM. Transport will be arranged at an additional cost from Gangotri at 06:30 AM.  Cost of the cab – Rs. 8,000 per vehicle.

How to reach

Jolly Grant airport is located 25 kilometers from the city, serving Dehradun. Daily flight from Delhi to Dehradun.

Take the train from Delhi to Dehradun overnight

• Nanda Devi Express(12205):- Departure:- 23:50; Arrival:- 05:40

• Dehradun Express(12687):- Departure:- 21:10; Arrival:- 05:00

Regular bus service is available from Delhi (ISBT Kashmere Gate) to Dehradun. We suggest that you take only government buses from the ISBT Kashmere Gate. Private buses run from outside ISBT Kashmere Gate and they are not trustable.

Usually, the buses left you in the Dehradun ISBT. From there you have to come to Dehradun railway station via Ola/Uber Cab/Auto Rickshaw/Shared Three Wheeler. There are few buses run by the Uttarakhand Government on a daily basis from Dehradun Railway Station to Gangotri. The timing of the bus: 05:30 AM. You would reach Gangotri by 06:00 PM.

Things to carry

• Basic Gears
• Accessories
• Mandatory Documents

• Backpack & Rain Cover (40-60 Litres)

• Trekking Shoes  (included in FTG)

• Trekking Pole  (included in FTG)

• LED Torch/Headlamp

• Two Water Bottle (one liter each)

• Basic Medications (or prescribed if any)

• Trekking Jacket  (included in FTG)

• Three (Five in winter) Warm Layers

• Two trek pants (one Wear and one carry)

• Two collared t-shirts

• Thermals

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 50/70)

• Lip Balm (SPF 30)

• Sun cap

• Synthetic hand gloves

• Two pairs of Socks

• Raincoat/Ponchos

• Daypack (20 liters), if you opt to offload your backpack

• Toiletries

• Cutlery

• Plastic cover (for wet clothes)

• Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Passport, Aadhaar Card, Driving license, or voters ID)

Terms & Conditions

1-  Free Trekking Gears:  Shoes, Jacket(-10°C), and Pole.

2-  Accommodation: Full-load camping arrangements on the mountain with a large mess and kitchen tent. Stay from Day 1 to Day 6 (Gangotri to Gangotri). In Gangotri, Stay will be in a Guest House/Camp/Home Stay on a sharing basis. You will camp on the trek (3 people per tent).

3-  Meals: All meals during the trek starting with dinner on Day 1 till breakfast on Day 7. (Only Veg.) Tea/Coffee/Soups/Snacks will be served throughout.

4-  Camping charges:  All trekking permits and forest camping charges are included (if any).

5-  Leaders & Guides:  Trek leaders are assisted by certified and experienced local guides.

6-  Trekking Equipment:  High-quality tents, sleeping bags, ice axes, roped, microspikes, gaiters, etc. as required.

7-  Safety Equipment:  First aid, medical kit, oxygen cylinders, stretchers, etc. will be available at all the campsites to deal with emergencies.

1-  Transport to and from the base camp:  We arrange shared taxis for trekkers from Dehradun to Gangotri and drop you back from Gangotri. This will cost approx. Rs. 8,000/- one way per 5-6 seat vehicles. You will have to share this value with the other trekkers.

2-  Food during transit to and from the base camp.

3-  Backpack offloading charges:  Rs. 2,400/- for the full trek + 5% GST. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 kg. Suitcases/trolleys/duffel bags will not be allowed. Please note that charges will vary for the last-minute offloading in case you decide to offload your bag after reaching Gangotri.

4-  Anything apart from inclusions.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation requests are not taken over the phone.

In case you wish to cancel your trek please e-mail us at  [email protected]

1- Cancellations up to 21 days prior to departure date -  70% refund

2- Between 21 days to 14 days prior to departure -  50% refund

3- Between 14 days to 10 days prior to departure-  30% refund

4- Less than 10 days of departure –  No refund  or you can transfer your trek (same batch date & same trek) to your dear one OR apply for TREKCASH Voucher 1 0 days before your trek date  which comes with 2-year validity.

a) Change of trek batch date is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch.

b) In case of transferring a trek to your dear one, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements laid down by Trekkaro.

c) Trekkaro holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice.

Refund Policy  The applicable refund amount will be processed within 10 working days. If we have to cancel/suspend your trek before the date of departure or at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rains, earthquake, landslides, strike, curfew, etc.), then you will get the TrekCash Voucher of the total fee you have paid to us and you can redeem it with 2 years on any trek but where this is of a higher price, you will be expected to pay the difference. The TrekCash voucher will be generated within 10 working days and sent to your email address by us.

Note: In the instance of exchanging a TrekCash Voucher for your dear one, he/she ought to fulfill all the obligatory necessities set around Trekkaro.

Trekkaro team will specifically ensure your safety with...

1.  Daily oxygen saturation & pulse reading (if required in trek)  We do treks which have a different environment than our daily life. We live in an environment where we less care about a healthy lifestyle. When it’s come to doing treks or surviving in a not-so-pure environment for more than a day our body should accept the changes. Oxygen saturation is the fraction of [oxygen]-saturated hemoglobin relative to total hemoglobin in the blood. So we ensure the specific balance of oxygen in your blood. Our team ensures the health condition by oxygen saturation and pulse reading before trekking so everyone should aware of their health.

2.  Oxygen cylinders and medical kit  When it comes to high-altitude trek the body doesn't get enough oxygen. It’s not always that you cannot survive in high-altitude treks but for a safer side if your body is not adjusted to the environment we are always ready with the oxygen cylinders. Our team member carries the portable oxygen cylinder and all the basic medicines on the trek. To prevent high altitude conditions - do more exercise, cycle, and swim. The more you practice it’ll easier for you.

3.  Stretchers on every campsite  Although we are physically and mentally ready for the environment there are chances of accidents or uncertain things. In those situations, we have stretchers at every campsite so, in an emergency, the porter will safely drop you at base camp where we can do further treatment.

4.  High-Quality Trek Gear and Equipment  Trekkaro is the only trekking company in the world which is providing Free Trekking Gear (FTG) at no charge/rent only for use during the treks. Expensive FTG includes Decathlon Quechua Trek 100 Shoes, Quechua SH 100/300 Jackets, Hiking Pole/Stick, Gaiters, and Crampons. Now, before registering for the trek, there is no need to think about the expensive trekking gear, and also, do not need to buy or rent expensive trekking gear to go on a trek.

Trekkaro team will ensure you with quality tents and sleeping bags where you can survive in extreme cold. We provide sleeping bags that can hold cold up to -5 to -20 degrees Celsius. It’s always warmer in tents so we ensure you with quality shelter. So even though we are ready for the storm you should tell us if anything bothers you regarding safety.

5.  Radio (for communication between camps and guides)  Our camps are a bit far from each other. But they connect through radio though the network is the issue in hills. Although you miss anything or the weather is not good or we need medical help from the base we can communicate through radios.

6.  Technical team on all snowy slopes All the treks come up with an adventure. But safety is important in all trails and treks. Wherever we find risky slopes or areas we ensure the turn with the technical team. As we already mentioned earlier we have a well-trained team having knowledge of handling hustles in emergencies and even know how to take care of the trekkers.

Expectations

When you take an adventurous trek with us, then be assured that whatever we do is more than your expectations. In fact, our wish to excel goes beyond the point where your boots hit the trail – it begins the moment that you get in contact with us, and it never ends. There is nothing more satisfying than hearing from our trekkers that they’ve just had “another trip of a lifetime with  Trekkaro ”.

Your Expectations

•  Safety  Of course, this is a non-negotiable. Safety is embedded in our business and it’s something that we take very seriously in all our treks. It's the primary reason we're very popular in just a year.

•  Personalized Service, Care, and Attention to Detail  For some organizations, this is, surprisingly, negotiable. But it isn’t for us. After safety, if we can do one thing right, every time, it’s to ensure that we sweat the small things.

•  The Best Guides  If you are already trekking with us, then you’d be forgiven for thinking our guides are superhuman. It doesn’t mean a feat to entertain, cook, guide, and facilitate, but our guides, handle it with grace, and all the while the attention is on you.

•  The Best Itineraries  It takes a lot of refinement to make a perfect trek, from dawn to dusk there are a lot of moving parts and the potential for things to go awry. For the last year, we’ve balanced on the tightrope of offering the right amount of activity, flexibility, and trek time. Whilst utilizing the best lodgings in the most unique places.

•  Value  We’re not in the business of making money and providing you with nothing. Our treks aren’t expensive, they represent excellent value for money, and for those seeking to maximize their time, there is no better way.

Our Expectations

It may come as a surprise, but the reality is that it is a two-way street (or trail), and you are ultimately responsible for the nature of the experience that you have with us. And not only that, but you also have an influence on the experience of others in your small group.

•  Attitude  This is your vacation, and the attitude that you bring will set the tone for your experience. We get that at times it’s difficult (we plan to challenge you) and we get that at times it’s a bit uncomfortable (this is not a cruise trip). All we ask you to keep an open mind, a big smile on your face, and readiness for the unexpected.

•  Physical preparedness  Our treks are designed for everyday people. You definitely don’t have to be an athlete, but to be fair to yourself and your group members, you do need to be ready. Worried about it? Do not stress it, our team is 100% dedicated to helping you pick the right trek, bring the right gear, and be physically and mentally prepared.

•  Know who’s in charge  As we’ve mentioned, you rightly expect when you join our trek to be in good, safe hands. For us to ensure the entire group’s safety, we suppose you, as our guest, to listen to your lead guide. They are the expert when it comes to decisions made on the trek.

How To Reach

Things to carry, brief description, gallery of this trek, people reviews, short itinerary.

The cab costs approx.. Rs. 8,000 per vehicle (5-6 Seaters) and Rs. 13,000 per Tempo Traveller (12 Seaters). You will reach Dehradun between 18:00 and 19:00 Hrs.

ATM point and Mobile connectivity

Bhatwari has the last ATM point before you reach Gangotri (Basecamp) if you need to withdraw money. Bhatwari is the last place before you reach Gangotri (Basecamp) where you’re likely to get a stable mobile signal (not Jio). This is about 3 hours before Gangotri, the base camp. Finish all your important phone calls here and inform anxious family members about limited phone connectivity.

Why trekkaro?

We’ve been the leaders in providing Free Trekking Gear (FTG) on treks for more than 5 years. How’d we get here? By redefining the way, everyone must trek. Check out how we’re creating the future of trekking around the globe.

Trekkaro is the world's only free trekking gear company, providing high-quality gear from the Decathlon brand to trekkers at no cost. Say goodbye to the hassle and expense of buying or renting gear for your next trek. Trekkaro offers everything from trek shoes to jackets rated for temperatures as low as -10 degrees, as well as poles, gaiters, and microspikes. Join Trekkaro today and experience the freedom of trekking without the burden of expensive gear.

Trekkaro offers free cancellation policies for all trekkers. If you need to cancel your trek for any reason, we provide a TrekCash Voucher that is equal to 100% of the amount you paid. This voucher has a 2-year validity, so you can use it towards any future trekking adventure with us. We want to make sure that our trekkers have the flexibility they need to plan their trips with confidence.

Trekkaro is the best trekking company in India, according to its impressive 4.9/5 rating on Facebook and 4.8/5 rating on Google. Customers rave about their experiences with Trekkaro, leaving glowing reviews and recommending the company to others. With such high ratings, it's clear that Trekkaro is a top choice for anyone looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of India through trekking.

We always help keep you safe from the moment you book to the moment you (reluctantly) head home.

No matter the trek difficulty, our treks balance well-planned itineraries with the flexibility to do your own thing and make the experience your own.

When you trek with us, you experience first-hand our commitment to making the trek a force for good in everything we do.

Gaumukh Trek from Gangotri – A Complete Travel Guide

In this post, I will provide a detailed description of Gaumukh Trek which is one of the biggest tourist attractions of Gangotri. In fact, it is this 18 kilometers long trail to Gaumukh that attracts 90% of the tourists here. There are majorly two kinds of people that visit Gangotri; either the devotees or the adventure enthusiasts. For both of them, walking to Gaumukh and tracing River Ganges back to its origin is one of the biggest parts of a trip to Gangotri.

Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Gangotri –  A Complete Travel Guide

For a brief introduction, Gaumukh, also known as “Gomukh” or “Gomukhi” is the source of the Bhagirathi River. It is the point where Bhagirathi originates out of the Gangotri glacier (picture below) and then flows downhill to be later called River Ganga. It is situated about 18 kilometers from Gangotri and at an altitude of 13,200 ft (4,023 meters).

The motorable road ends at Gangotri and the final distance to Gaumukh can only be covered by foot. Due to its religious importance, it is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site; and due to the trek being neither too difficult nor too easy, it is also a much sought-after trekking destination. The word “Gomukh/Gaumukh” literally means “Mouth of a Cow.”

It is said that the snout of the Gangotri glacier where Bhagirathi comes out from looked exactly like the “Mouth of a Cow” in old times and hence the name.

Quick Navigation

Gaumukh Trek

Please note that this article only covers the part about trekking to Gaumukh after you have arrived in Gangotri. The information below will tell you how you can plan your trek, what permits are needed and, some of the things you should keep in mind. If you, however, would also like to know the details on how to reach Gangotri then please read the previous part of this post, Gangotri Travel Guide .

Best time to visit Gaumukh

The best time to trek Gaumukh would be from Mid April to June and then again from September to early November. Gangotri remains closed from late November to March so a visit in these months is not possible at all.

The risk of rain would make the trek and journey tough to execute in July and August. This is also the time when it gets a little crowded in Gangotri with the ongoing Kanwar Yatra. Hence it only leaves the months of spring (April), summer (May and June), and autumn (October) to trek to Gaumukh.

Gaumukh Trek Permit

A permit is required for a person to be able to trek to Gaumukh. This permit can be obtained from either District Forest Officer in Uttarkashi or at the forest office in Gangotri. There is a daily limit of 150 permits per day and it is issued on a first-come-first-served basis.

Also Read: When is the Best time to visit Gangotri

How to get Gaumukh Trek Permit

The first place to get the permit would be at the DM office Uttarkashi. You will anyways cross Uttarkashi while going towards Gangotri so you can actually get the permit while on the way. The DFO office is located at the northern end of the road just ahead of the bus stand. It is a government office open on all working days during normal working hours.

Getting a permit from here is quite simple really. You just fill out your name and address on a form; attached your government-issued Identity proofs like Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Voter’s ID; and pay a fee of Rs. 150 per person.

If you did not get the permit at Uttarkashi for some reason, you can obtain it in Gangotri as well. It is issued at the forest office which is located just as you enter Gangotri to your left. Charges and procedures will remain the same but the problem is that this office is only open from 8.00 am to 10.00 am, and then 5 pm to 7 pm.

On the brighter side, this office remains open on all days including Sundays as well which the office in Uttarkashi is not.

Gaumukh Trek Permit Cost

The cost of the permit is Rs. 150 per person for Indian citizens and Rs. 600 per person for foreign nationals.

Gaumukh Permit Duration

The permit for Gaumukh is valid only for 2 days. So, for example, if you started from Gangotri on Monday, you must return by Tuesday evening. The duration is extended if you plan to trek to Tapovan as well.

Gaumukh Trek Permit Online

Thankfully, permits for the Gaumukh trek can be obtained online. You will need to visit the official page for the Online application for Gangotri National Park permission and fill in your details. You will also be asked to upload required Identity proofs on this page. After you submit the application, you will receive an email confirming that your permit was approved, provided that you are able to produce original documents at the office.

Take a printout of this email and show it at either the DFO office in Uttarkashi or at the forest office in Gangotri along with your original documents to collect your permit. Payment for the permits can either be made while you were submitting the online application, or you can pay in cash when you show the permit later at either in Uttarkashi or Gangotri.

The DFO office in Uttarkashi remains closed on Saturday and Sunday so please plan your journey accordingly. On the online application form, it will ask you to select a Tour Operator towards the bottom of the page but that is not a mandatory field. If you are visiting between May to November, then you can leave this field blank.

If you were, however, visiting in April before the temple doors were open, then you would have to select a local tour operator on this page.

Also Read: What to See in Gangotri and Things to Do

Gaumukh Trek Details

Now that you have obtained the permit, let me provide a brief summary of how your trek is going to look like. There are four major points on the route; Gangotri, Chirbasa, Bhojbasa, and Gaumukh. The route will look something like this.

Gangotri – (9 kms) – Chirbasa – (5 kms) – Bhojbasa – (4 kms) – Gaumukh = 18 Kms

The difficulty level of the trek can be called moderate but it does get a bit challenging and steep at some points. The stretch between Gangotri to Chirbasa is a little easy but the challenging nature of the trek starts to come more into the picture as you proceed further.

Gangotri really is a small town and finding the starting point of the Gaumukh trek won’t be a difficult task. Ask any of the locals and anyone can point you in the right direction. But as a reference, the trek begins from around 100 meters behind the Gangotri temple. One has to climb a steep stairway in order to reach the starting point of the trek.

The first couple of kilometers is really an easy walk and you will arrive at the check post. Entry to trekkers and visitors is only allowed after 6 AM so my advice would be to start as early as possible from Gangotri. If you started by 5 in the morning, you will be at the check post by 6 and can be on your way to Gaumukh as soon as the entry opens.

Plastic Covers Fee

At the check post before the start of the trek, you will be asked to show your permits as well as all the plastic bags that you were carrying. All your chips packets, chocolate covers, Biscuit packets, polythene bags will be counted and you will be asked to deposit a certain amount.

When you return, this fee will be refunded only if the count of plastic covers that you are carrying matched the one from the morning; meaning that you brought all the plastic covers back and did not leave anything behind. If the count did not match, this amount will be forfeited.

Also Read: Uttarakhand Roadways Bus Time Table

Gangotri to Chirbasa

You will be required to produce your permits at the checkpoint, as well as the original Identity proofs. You will make the payment if you did not already do so while procuring the permits online or at Uttarkashi. Your bags will then be checked for how many plastic items you were carrying and all of them will be counted. You will then make a deposit against your plastic items and will then be allowed to enter.

The entire trail is to Gaumukh is well marked and you will have no trouble navigating your way. It will continue to gradually increase its gradient but will not be too challenging to handle.

The name Chirbasa literally means “the abode of Pine trees” and it is named such because there are a lot of pine trees around here. In fact, you will be able to recognize the place by the huge cluster of pine trees. It is located at a distance of 9 kilometers from Gangotri and for this entire length; you will pretty much be on your own.

There will not be any Dhabas, shops, tea stalls, or anything of that sort in between. Hence it is extremely important that you bring something to munch on along the trek. Also, ensure that you are carrying a water bottle that you can fill in from any of the water streams en route.

Trekking from Gangotri to Chirbasa will take you about 4 to 5 hours. If you were at the check post by 6 and started as soon as the entry was allowed, you should be able to reach Chirbasa before 10 AM. There is a small Dhaba here where you can take a short break and restock your energy levels.

Chirbasa to Bhojbasa

Chirbasa is known to be the last place where you will see some vegetation on the trek. After this point, trees mostly just vanish and the landscape seems to look like a barren wasteland. The next stop on the trail will be Bhojbasa and until then, you will again be on your own. There will not be any dhabas or tea stalls anymore so do not forget to fill your water bottle and get something to eat on the way if you weren’t carrying anything.

Bhojbasa is located at a distance of about 5 kilometers from Chirbasa and it will easily take you 2 to 3 hours to complete. The ascent in the trail will be quite the same as between Gangotri and Chirbasa and it will be an easy to moderate walk. The vegetation too will continue to get lesser with each passing kilometer as you get closer to Gangotri Glacier.

Also Read: How to Plan a Trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila

Located at an altitude of 3800meters (12,450 feet), Bhojbasa serves as a stopover for people trekking to Gangotri or even further to Tapovan. It is really not much except for a huge ground-like area in the middle of nowhere and a couple of buildings in it.

By now, you would already have walked 14 kilometers since you started from Gangotri in the morning. Accommodation at Bhojbasa is available in form of Ashrams and a GMVN guest house , and both are very basic dormitory type accommodation.

Below is a picture of Bhojbasa.

After you reach Bhojbasa, you have two options. You can either break the journey for the day and trek to Gaumukh the next morning. Or you can continue all the way to Gaumukh, come back and stay at Bhojbasa for the night and return to Gangotri the next day. Since the duration of the Gaumukh permit is only two days, you will have to return to Gangotri the next day anyway.

My recommendation is that you do not go to Gaumukh on the very first day and do it the next morning. The reason behind this is that Gaumukh is another 4 kilometers from Bhojbasa and this is where the trek becomes challenging as well. If you continue to Gaumukh, you will be in a hurry to reach and come back to Bhojbasa before dark. This will also not give you any time to spend at the glacier. Hence it would be better to stay at Bhojbasa for the night and start trekking to the glacier the next morning.

If you were carrying your own camping gear, then Bhojbasa is the place where you will pitch your tent for the night. Camping is not allowed by law anywhere after Bhojbasa.

Bhojbasa to Gaumukh

The trek will get a bit challenging after Bhojbasa. It will be steep and there will be boulders as well on the way that you will have to jump over.  The trail starts from behind the GMVN rest house but you can ask anyone here if you weren’t able to spot it.

The path however will still remain well marked; and easy to spot and navigate. Make sure that you are filling your water bottle in the morning before you start and also are bringing in items to munch on. Finding drinkable water after Bhojbasa will be a tough task so bringing water along will be of utmost importance.

Up until now, Bhagirathi would have stayed on your right all along the trek.  About a kilometer after Bhojbasa, you will get your clear view of Shivling peak, Bhagirathi group of peaks, and Gangotri Glacier. Take a moment, relax, and savor the view while relaxing.

The trek after this point will continue to get even more challenging with numerous boulders on the trek so please walk very carefully. One wrong step here can leave you with a twisted ankle or even tumbling down into the river.

The trail on the other side of the river however is much easier but it would mean that you would have to cross the water stream. If you find a spot where you can, jump on the other side of the river (the river would then be on your left after crossing).

Make sure you do not get your shoes wet in the process because that will become a huge problem. Trekking in such cold weather with wet shoes will not be a pleasant experience.

Gangotri Glacier and Gaumukh

After a grueling final 4 kilometers of a trek, you will finally arrive at Gangotri Glacier and Gaumukh. From Bhojbasa, it will easily take about 3 hours to get here.

Spend some time, take pictures, and then head back to Bhojbasa for the night if you trekked all the way to the glacier on Day 1 itself. If you came here on Day 2 after a night’s stay at Bhojbasa, then it is time for you to head back to Gangotri.

Also Read: Easy Treks in Uttarakhand: The Top 5

Mobile Connectivity at Gaumukh

There is no mobile connectivity at all at Gaumukh. Airtel and BSNL will work fine in Gangotri but the signals will be all gone about a kilometer into the trek.

Accommodation on Gangotri Gaumukh Trek

The only accommodation on the trail is available at Bhojbasa and nowhere else. Depending on your own preference, you can either stay at the Ashram or GMVN rest house.  These are both dormitory-type accommodations. Hot water will be provided and only vegetarian food is served here.

If you want to, you can even book the GMVN Guesthouse by calling 0135-2740896, 2749308, 2748478; or by emailing at [email protected] or [email protected] . You can also book it online at the GMVN Website . Just create a user ID on this site and book your stay. The two Ashrams at Bhojbasa are known as Ram Baba Ashram and Lal Baba Ashram.

Accommodation Cost at Bhojbasa

The Ashram here will charge you Rs. 300 per person and the GMVN Guest House will charge Rs. 350 per person.

Also Read: List of Necessary Items to Carry for Trekking

Acute Mountain Sickness

If you start to feel symptoms of altitude sickness anywhere on the trek, please do not climb up and further and return to Gangotri immediately. For example, if you start to feel feverish, have headaches, nausea, chest pain, having difficulty breathing, then it means you are suffering from AMS and any further gain in altitude will only make things worse. Stop and climb down immediately.

Mentioned below are a few other tips that can be of help while trekking to Gangotri.

• Any sports shoe will be fine for completing this trek but if possible, do bring a pair of trekking shoes with good grip and ankle length.
• You must bring a light jacket even if you were trekking in the months of May and June. The wind out here is a bit cold and the weather can change unpredictably.
• Permits for Gomukh can be procured via Fax as well.
• After 3 kilometers from Chirbasa, you will come across “Gila Pahar”, a place well known to be dangerous because of landslides.
• You will also come across Bharals, a type of mountain antelope while trekking to Gangotri.
• The route after Bhojbasa can be a little difficult for some people, and even more so after the 2013 floods.
• You should avoid trekking in the monsoon season. Rains can make the route slippery and this region is prone to landslides, cloudbursts, and roadblocks.
• Please do not attempt the trek alone. Be in a group of at least two people. Also inform, your folks before you start on the trek.
• Please carry ample dry fruits, chocolates, snacks, and drinking water.
• Do not consume alcohol or any other intoxicants during the trek.
• Do not attempt trekking at night.
• Before undertaking the trek, it would be better to consult your doctor.
• You should carry basic medications (for fever, headache, upset stomach, body-ache) and a first-aid kit during the trek.
• Please be a sensible tourist and do not litter. If you brought polythene bags along, please ensure that you are bringing those back and not throwing them carelessly.

Also Read: 7 Short & Easy Winter Treks in Uttarakhand

Things To Carry for the Trek

• Comfortable clothes. You do not want to go trekking in tight-fitting jeans.
• Good quality trekking shoes
• Sunscreen lotion of highest SPF that you can find
• Skin moisturizers
• Water bottles
• Energy bars/snacks/Dry Fruits
• Pair of sunglasses
• Personal toiletries and basic medication (if any)
• Flashlight (with spare batteries)
• Insect repellent and emergency medical kit

Gaumukh Temperature

The average temperature at Gomukh and on the trek remains around 15°C to 16°C during summer; and around 5°C to 6°C during the months of September, October, and November. It snows heavily in December, January, and March here with temperatures way below zero degrees making the area inaccessible.

Gaumukh Height

Gaumukh is located at an altitude of 13,200 ft.

Gangotri to Gaumukh Distance

The total distance between Gangotri to Gaumukh is 18 kilometers.

Gangotri to Gaumukh by Pony

Horses and ponies are not allowed on the Gaumukh trail and you must complete the journey on foot only

Also Read: 12 Scenic and Offbeat Places in Uttarakhand

Gaumukh Trek Difficulty

The difficulty level of the Gaumukh trek is moderate to difficult.

Gaumukh Trek Itinerary

Starting from Delhi, you can follow the following itinerary for a trip to Gangotri and Gaumukh. I am assuming Delhi as the starting point here but even if you were coming from a different city, only the journey to and from Delhi will be different. The trek details from Gangotri will still remain applicable.

• Delhi to Rishikesh / Chamba – Day 1
• Rishikesh Chamba to Gangotri – Day 2
• Gangotri to Chirbasa to Bhojbasa – Day 3
• Bhojbasa to Gomukh to  Bhojbasa to Chirbasa to Gangotri – Day 4
• Gangotri to Rishikesh = Day 5
• Rishikesh to Delhi – Day 6

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

If you had some more time in hand, then you can extend your trek further to Tapovan. Please note though that for Tapovan, you will need to hire a local guide and arrange for your permits accordingly. Tapovan trek cannot and must not be attempted on your own without proper guidance.

• Delhi to Rishikesh – Day 1
• Rishikesh to Gangotri – Day 2
• Gangotri to Bhojbasa – Day 3
• Bhojbasa to Gomukh to Tapovan – Day 4
• Tapovan to Bhojbasa – Day 5
• Bhojwassa to Gangotri – Day 6
• Gangotri to Rishikesh – Day 7
• Rishikesh to Delhi – Day 8

That pretty much is all that you need to know about trekking making a trip to Gangotri and then trekking to Gaumukh. I hope the information above was of help. If you have any questions; or need any other details; please feel free to ask in the comments section below, or at our Community Forum , and I will be glad to answer.

Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

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Hi Vargis Bhai, thank you so much for this great info. I’m thinking about doing this trek at mid July (2023) – do you think it’s reasonable (regarding weather)? Thanks

It is not advised to attempt the trek in July due to the monsoon season bhai … May, June are better

Thanks Vargis for your reply. Do you have any other 5-7 day trek in India recommended for July? my starting point is Delhi (finishing a business trip there). Thanks!

Sorry Amichai … I am not intro trekking that much, have only done a handful

Hi I am AMAL, Planning to track in this month on 31st August, 2023 to Goumukh to Tapovan. How can I get a Guide. Please suggest me.

I want go Gomukh 24th to 28 th May . I am solo travelling. Please let me know is there any package for me.

I didn’t get permission without any travel agent to go Gomukh. How to get permission to go Gomukh? Please guide me

Hi Vargis Bhai,

If i hire a guide to go to tapovan, what do you think should be his charges per day. I plan to go solo with the guide. I am fit enough to reach bhojbasa on the first day and stay at tapovan the 2nd day and on third day back to gangotri. May be a day can be added if i go to nandanvan depending on weather.

Hi, we are planning to trek to gomukh in mid May 2023 with our 2 kids, aged 8 and 5 year olds. Are kids of this age permitted? Is it advisable to travel with kids of this age?

I will not advise bringing a 5 year old on the trek

I am 72 with no medical issues. Can I go for Gaumukh treking . Already have trek experience

Are horses available on this route for elderly or Palkis?

Hello Vargis,

First of all really appreciated for such a nice description. It’s really very much informative and helpful. I wish to go Gaumukh trek as a beginner. So for a beginner what would be your advise and how to prepare for this trek . Your valuable advise would be appreciable.

First of all really appreciated for such a nice description. It’s really very much informative and helpful. I wish to go Gaumukh trek as a beginner. I never trek before but would like t go in October 1st week. Your valuable advise would be appreciable.

Hi, we are planning for mid May 2023 with our 2 kids, aged 8 and 5 year olds. Are kids of this age permitted? Is it advisable to travel with kids of this age?

Hello Vargis bhai just loved your blog. I am planning for this trip and I want some guides contact number. Can you please provide me the contact number of the guides

Thank you Dibyendu Bhai. Sorry, I do not really have any contacts anymore.

Dear vargis really thanks for the detail writeup. It gives full information. Absolutely no quiry if you are a trekker.

Thank you Prasanna Bhai

Hi Varghis Bhai…Do you have any Idea if Solo trekkers are allowed this year in may?

Sunil Bhai too early to tell. It all depends on how the COVID story will unfold this year because of the recent increase in the cases

we are a group of 4.Is it okay to visit Gaumukh in 2 or 3rd week of November.Anything I should be aware of,other than that in your great blog

Hi Abhiram. I’m planning to visit Gaumukh as well around the 7th of Nov. I had some questions regarding the online permits. Apparently Gaumukh is categorised as a “Moderate Trek” although while registering I keep getting an error “Hiring an Agency is Mandatory for Moderate Treks”. Would it be possible if I could connect with you on this?

Hello Varghis, it is really an informative as well as wonderful write up. The links are really helpful. Could you just provide me one information? Will I be allowed to pitch tent at Tapovan? With best wishes, Krishnapriya [email protected]

Vargis Sir, First of all a huge thanks for such awesome, resourceful blog. I am planning to do a solo trek till Gomukh. Now my question is if I extend my plan till Tapovan, where I would get local guide?

Hi Subhadip Bhai – You can get guides for it from Uttarkashi.

Very friendly informative….sir…

Thanks Bhai

Highly informative blog. I am planning to trek un the month of May 2021. Do you know any local guide and his contact details who can guide us on the route? Please share the details at Shridhar Vaidya – Cell 9422048509 Thanks.

Dear Mr Varghis , I want to go gaumukh track may second week along with my wife and two other couple…but unfortunately website not open for gate permit….how can I do……when will this website open and how many days permit will given(maximum)

Dear vargis I read your blog nice information share…..thanks for it…

Hi Vargis, Thanks for the details. Could you please share that if I take Tapoban permit and take the route of right side of the river from Bhojbasa, is it possible to cover Bhojbasa-Gomukh-Bhojbasa-Gangotri on the same day? We are regular trekkers, want to go close to the Gomukh, but are time-bound. Adv thanks.

Bhai Gangotri to Gaumukh and back in a day will be extremely difficult. I really do not think it is doable. The second time I did this trek, we started at 6 AM from Gangotri and reached Gaumukh at around 3 after rushing through most of the way since we had already done it once before.

Very nicely described trail information. Almost all questions get answered while reading the blog on Gaumukh trek. Thanks a lot.

Wow.. really very informative and so well explained.i was finding information about this trek from many hours and finally came out to this. Your blog is awesome..i am planning this trip for next year. Recently i went to kedarnath trek and it was amazing. please give me your contact number or add me as if i need any help later (7053563370). Thank you so much

Hello vargis, If i visit rishikesh to gangotri then trekk gomaukh, then how i get permit from uttarkashi?

Dear Mr Varghis This is the first time I visited your blog. Excellent compilation of information, which will be very handy for any traveller. Thank you for putting this together which will help many travellers plan their journey. Regards Tagade

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Mr. Tagade

What happens if one doesn’t not come back in 2 days as permit duration ? Also if one has applied for only upto gaumukh , can later at dfo office it may be extended upto tapovan .? Is it mandatory to take only tour operation whose list is available at permit website. Is night stay at tapovan allowed . Is tapovan worth visiting.

Great job of detailed info. Thanks and God bless you!

I want to go Gomukh ,Tapoban and nandanban next may 2020. Thanks for that information

You are welcome !!!

i am planning to start from delhi on 4th april 2020 and start gomukh trek on 6th april. Is this time right to trek to gomukh, if yes can i also add tapovan along with gomukh.

You can no but it is not the right time. If possible, delay it by a couple of weeks.

Hi Vargis, Is it possible to do this trek with wife and kids (8 and 10) with a stopover at Bhojbasa in Apr end? Kids are very active, wife is moderately active. My only worry is how is the route (boulders, narrow, etc).

Hi Vivek – To be very honest, I will not recommend it with kids that young.

Your blog had been very helpful during my several ladakh tours. And the high standard is maintained here too. It really comes handy in planning my trek to Tapoban.

Just a typo to mention in “Gaumukh Trek Details” section.

It reads, “…. The route will look something like this. Gangotri – (9 kms) – Chirbasa – (5 kms) – Bhojbasa – (4 kms) – Gangotri ( This should be GAUMUKH) = 18 Kms

Thank you for your kind words Bhai and for catching that error. I have corrected it now.

I want to go to gongotri,gomukh and tapovan solo in may 2020

Yes you can

We are a group of 5 people, we have planned in the month of May 2020

You can go, it will be open at that time

Sir, we are planing in this year May, i want to know the Guide charges for the entire Gomukh trek to complete ?

The Online Single Window website for Gaumukh Trek Pass isn’t working. Is the site closed?

The trek must be closed now for winter season

Sir I want to go gomukh October 19.10.19.I am alone please tell me about this trek route and how can I get a permit for gangotri national park.

Thanks for nice and detailed blog.

Thanks for taking the time to drop a note.

Thank you Vargis, very nice information

Thanks Abhimanyudu

Hi, Mr Khan,

I am SC Minocha, 66. I along with my nephew who is 24, are going to Gaumukh on 02 Oct. I have got the permit online. I have booked GMVN accn at Uttarkashi for 30 Sep and at Gangotri for 01 Oct and 04 Oct. Also at Bhojwasa for 02 Oct and 03 Oct.

I have planned in such a way that, if I don’t get Pony, I can manage. I have done Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Kedarnath and Amarnath Yatra, partially on foot and partially on Pony.

Your valuable comments please.

Hi Mr. Minocha, may i know through which website did you manage to get the online permit. The following link doesnt seem to be working.

http://www.swsuttarkashi.com/Permission/GangotriNationalPark

thanks for the help.

Hi Vargis, is it possible to do Gangotri to Gaumukh and back in 1 day. We are experienced trekkers. Is the total trek 18 km one way or round trip ?

God bless you Sir. Wonderful description. I will ever remain grateful to you sir. Thanks.

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Mr. Banerjee. I am glad that the information was of help.

I am planning for this trip I need some details could you please give me your contact no. so that it will be good for me my no. is 7503226176

And your blog is very awesome !!

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Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

A Journey to the Source of River Ganga

TREK DIFFICULTY

Moderate-Difficult

TREK DURATION

HIGHEST ALTITUDE

Gaumukh Tapovan is one of the most rewarding treks you will ever do.

There are summit views and there are  ‘big’ summit views . On the Gaumukh Tapovan trek, you don’t just see the best views of Mt Shivling. You see Mt Shivling right from the base to its summit. And if you don’t know about Mt Shivling, it’s one of the most beautiful looking mountains in our country. No wonder the mountain has been featured in our gold calendar every year since it was published.

But wait. Not only Mt Shivling, you see the Bhagirathi sisters from top to bottom. Sometimes we feel the  Bhagirathi sisters  are even grander than  Mt Shivling because the three of them form a massif, which dominates the landscape.

Then why do more people not do the trek you ask?

Unfortunately, the popularity of other treks brought the Gaumukh Tapovan trek down from its grace. It’s almost like a new generation movie star replaced an older star. It sounds silly, but that’s what happened to the Gaumukh Tapovan trek. Treks like  Roopkund ,  Rupin Pass  and the  Hampta Pass  gained popularity. And Gaumukh Tapovan fell in popularity.

As is the mentality of most trekkers, if they find one trek attractive, they just rush towards the new offering. It is a mistake.

Before we begin, here are some quick facts about the Gaumukh Tapovan trek:

Gaumukh Trek is a 46 km trek hiked over 6 days (8 days including the drive to and from the trek,) in the Greater Himalayas. It lies in the state of Uttarakhand and begins and ends at the pilgrim town of Gangotri.

The trail snakes through the Greater Himalayas within the confines of Gangotri National Park. It is a moderate-difficult trek ( more on this ahead on this page ) that can be attempted by beginners if you prepare well. 

Gaumukh Tapovan - Complete Trek Information

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek . Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Gaumukh Tapovan trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

Quick Itinerary

Get your trek plan

How Does Each Day Look

Complete Trek Guide with Photos

How Difficult Is Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Use This to Set Your Fitness Goals

Best Time To Do Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Schedule Your Trek Dates Based on the Best Season

Packing List

Things To Take

How To Reach The Base Camp of Gaumukh Tapovan

Plan Your Travel With This

Frequently Asked Questions

Get your questions answered here

How to get fit for Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Fitness matters for the trek

Gaumukh Tapovan Videos

Watch these videos to prepare for your Gaumukh Tapovan trek.

Photo Gallery

Expert Speak

Arjun Majumdar Founder, CEO

Arjun Majumdar, the Founder of Indiahikes, went on this trek in 2015. As one of the veterans of the trekking community in India, he’s an expert when it comes to Gaumukh Tapovan Trek. Here’s Arjun talking about one of the top treks in our country.

What I Like and Don't like About the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

What I Like About the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

1 . The Gaumukh glacier

I have not stood at the snout of such a gigantic glacier in my life. The Gaumukh glacier snout must be as high as a ten-storey building. Big chunks of ice, as big as cars, continuously fall with thunderous sounds from the mouth of the glacier. I remember the ground reverberating with every fall.

Below, the opening of the glacier was a big cavern, from which the Bhagirathi flowed. I have seen rivers forming from under a glacier. But I have never seen a river, in its full width, flow out from under a glacier, right at its source. It was stunning.

Minuscule trekkers standing before the mouth of the Gangotri glacier. Picture by Atul Rana

2 . The crevasses on the glacier

Traversing the glacier from one end to another was fantastically adventure-filled. The surface of the glacier was a maze of crevasses. Some so small that you hardly notice them, some big enough to swallow you whole.

Deep down in some of the big ones, the colour of the ice was green with a bluish tinge on their walls. Rivulets made a channel through them, sometimes disappearing into a dark abyss. It was fascinating seeing this spectacle.

Navigating these crevasses, literally tip-toeing over to the other side, ultimately clambering up to Tapovan, is an adventure that stays with me. It is fun, and frankly, quite adventurous. I admit I had my moments when my palms were sweaty.

Crevasses on the Gaumukh glacier. Picture by Jude Rayen

3 . Mt Shivling and the Bhagirathi sisters from Tapovan

a. Mt Shivling I was expecting Tapovan to be a flat grassland. It wasn’t. It was a bit bouldery, a bit grassy but a very large open land. I remember the moment when we got to Tapovan. Just as we clambered into Tapovan, all my trek mates stood rooted to their spots.

They were witnessing something that they had never seen before. Right in front of them, almost less than a stone’s throw away was the entire Mt Shivling from its base to its summit.

Mt Shivling was no ordinary mountain. It was the most beautiful mountain my trek mates had set their eyes on. Like a beautiful young lady with her slender neck, and her head held high, Mt Shivling stood in front of them with grace and elegance.

I finally understood why photographers travelled from across the globe to take pictures of this majestic mountain.

b. The Bhagirathi sisters On the other side, right across the Gangotri glacier, we saw the Bhagirathi sisters. The three summits in one massif. I’ll be frank here. Even though Mt Shivling is the Greek God of beautiful mountains, it was the Bhagirathi sisters who held our attention longer.

The three sisters: Bhagirathi I, II and III. All of them nestled together in one isolated massif — and the entire massif standing tall from its base to the summit. You don’t see such mountain views in other parts of the world.

At that moment I understood what it meant to be at Tapovan. I was not witnessing spectacular mountains. I was seeing something utterly unique in mountain views. In trekking circles, if there is a list of grand scenes to see, I would put this view from Tapovan in my top 3.

4 . The sunrise and sunset on the majestic mountains

I love sunrises and sunsets on mountains. Somehow it evokes deep emotions in me. Sometimes when I see a spectacular one, tears well up in my eyes.

So I keep a count of some of the best ones. This is why I mentioned earlier about photographers coming from far and wide to do this trek. Mt Shivling is at such an angle that you get a divine sunrise and sunset on it. They warm the summit in such fascinating colours that it not only lights up the mountain — it kind of makes an already beautiful mountain stunning in its grandness.

In the evening there’s a more spectacular show. With the sunset happening both, on the Bhagirathi sisters as well as Mt Shivling. You don’t know which one to watch! As a sunset lover, it was one of the best sunsets that I saw in my life.

What I don’t like about Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

1 . Trek to Chirbasa

Frankly, I did not like the trek until we got to Chirbasa. I thought it was a bit monotonous with similar valley views. Too many pilgrims too. The Chirbasa campsite was a bit of a let down as well. It was small and crampy.

After Chirbasa, the trek changed completely though. There were superb colour changes, terrific rock formations, and I don’t have to say, right ahead, one of the greatest mountain views in our country.

Trek Trivia

Things Nobody Tells You About This Trek

• India's Oldest Trek?

Gaumukh-Tapovan is one of India's oldest trekking trails

Trekkers walking towards Tapovan. Picture by Dhaval Jajal

Given that the Gaumukh-Tapovan trail has a large religious significance, it is one of the few trails that have been frequented by trekkers from across the country for centuries together.

It used to be one of the country's most visited treks until other treks started getting discovered.

Despite that, even today, you will see at least 150 trekkers on the trail every day, not limited to trekkers alone, but several religious devotees as well, who trek to offer their gratitude to River Ganga.

Leaving Mountains Better

Green Trails is our promise to leave the mountains better. We have removed over 1 lakh kilos of waste left behind by others on trekking trails. Yet this is a small percentage of what we do. Green Trails dives into reducing use of resources, reducing our carbon footprint and bringing about a change in the daily practices of our trekkers too.

5 Reasons Why Indiahikes

When we brought out new trails in Indian trekking, safety came with us. Back in 2012, we were the first to introduce microspikes, and two years later, pulse oximeters became standard thanks to us. Nobody does safe treks like Indiahikes. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with – everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes.

We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have brought out treks that have become India's most famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Brahmatal, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023 alone, we brought out five new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone . This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own.

More than 25,000 people trek with us every year. We are the largest trekking organisation in India. 24% of our trekkers come back to trek with us every year. Over 4,000 students from the top educational institutions trek with us every year. Aside from this, families with children choose to trek with Indiahikes knowing that our treks are the safest. We have taken over 8000 children trekking so far, and the number continues to grow.

We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey.

Since 2012, we have pioneered sustainable practices that have become standard in trekking. Using eco-bags, our trekkers have cleared over 120 tonnes of litter from the mountains. We do not carry packaged foods; instead, we serve freshly made food. We do not light campfires; we carry coal to light angethis to keep you warm. Our bio-toilets not only keep our toilets odour-free but also enrich the soil. When you trek with us, you leave mountains better.

Indiahikes Features

You’re guarded with our trek again philosophy

If you are unable to complete a trek, or if you love a trek, you can repeat it with us anytime. You don’t have to pay us for it. See our thoughts behind this here .

Daily 3-time health checks keep you safe at any altitude

Our thrice-a-day oxi-metre checks keep altitude sickness at bay, never allowing you to reach a point where you need evacuation.

Join any group, they are all women-friendly groups 

With around 30% of our trekkers being women, all women, including those travelling solo are comfortable to join any of our groups.

Request Jain/Vegan-friendly food

Our kitchen teams understand your needs as a vegan (or a Jain). We will take special care of your food, even in the remote Himalayas. 

Be comfortable and sustainable with bio toilets

We have specially designed bio toilets to ensure you have no sight or smell in toilets, at the same time making sure the toilets cause no harm to the fragile ecosystem we trek in.

Fresh, nutritious food at every camp

We’ll admit it. Our love for food surpasses our love for minimalism. Expect freshly cooked, multi-cuisine food at all camps, designed to meet your nutritional requirements and keep your taste buds happy!

Special Treks with Indiahikes

At Indiahikes, we see treks beyond going from one place to another. It can offer much more. We see treks as a platform for learning and transformation. This is the thought behind our special treks.

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Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Not just a trek but a journey to the source of River Ganga

Available Batches

September 2024, october 2024.

Brief Description

Brief Itinerary

Detailed itinerary.

Make your way to Gangotri (3,415M)

The trek begins from Gangotri which is a mountain city on the banks of River Bhagirathi and is known to be the origin of the holy River Ganga. Located in the Greater Himalayan Range, legend says that this is where Goddess Ganga descended when Lord Shiva released the river from the locks of his hair. This holy city which lies at an altitude of 3,415M is a 245 km drive away from Dehradun – the closest city with an airport.

If you have signed up with Bikat for a drive from Dehradun to Gangotri, the day starts early. Everyone assembles at the meeting point by 7 in the morning so we can start our long drive up to Gangotri, a holy mountain city in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. Although there’s nothing more on the agenda for today other than the 8-9 hour drive, it is better to leave as early as possible for two reasons:

One, so we can reach as early as possible and give our bodies enough rest for what’s coming the next day. And, two, roads on the mountains are unpredictable and it is always better to account for delays when we start. It is also better to reach before it gets dark.

Gangotri (3,415M) to Chirbasa (3,600M) - 9 km

Today is our first day of the actual trek. We start early after an early breakfast. We will be walking towards Gomukh, the snout of Gangotri glacier. Our destination for today is Chirbasa which is at an altitude of 3,600M and means home of pine in the local language – no points for guessing what kind of trees you are likely to find en route to Chirbasa which will take us 4 hours to get to. The entire trek up until Chirbasa is alongside the roaring Bhaigrathi River whose refreshing spirit is likely to keep the spring in your gait alive all the way through.

Chirbasa (3,600M) to Bhojwasa (3,775M) - 5 km

Bhojwasa in the local language literally translates to the home of birch trees. A view of the very impressive Bhagirathi range of peaks follows alongside. There is a dramatic change of scenery after Chirbasa when the trail starts to get barren and desolate. Since we covered a major part of the distance yesterday, today is not an overly heavy day. Expect to reach our campsite by the river by lunchtime. The mesmerizing sunset over the spectacular Bhagirathi range is a perfect view to end your day with.

Bhojwasa (3,775M) to Tapovan (4,460M) via Gomukh (4,025M) - 14 km Trek

Today is the big day. We wake up to the majestic view of the Bhagirathi range of peaks and head out for our next campsite after an early breakfast. We will be crossing the snout of the glacier that we saw glimpses of on our way yesterday. We will be walking alongside our companion, River Bhagirathi, till we get to Gomukh. Gomukh, which curiously translates to the mouth of the cow, was named so by sages of the yesteryears for its appearance. Gomukh is known to be the source of Ganga and where it originally begins its long journey through the many regions it flows by. We spend some time exploring the region around Gomukh after which we head on toward Tapovan - one of the finest high-altitude alpine meadows in the area. The trail from Gomukh onwards is one on moraine-rich glaciers. The view of the surrounding peaks starts to get wider and wider as the trail from Gomukh to Tapovan gets steeper with every step forward. Tapovan, known for its gorgeous meadows encircling the base of Shivling Peak, is a beautiful campsite bustling with many freshwater streams and an assortment of wildflowers scattered across its floor. Herds of Bharal (blue mountain goats) running up and down the mountain ridges with magnificent views of Bhagirathi I, II, and III in the background, is a common sight here. Is it any wonder why Tapovan remains one of the most preferred spots for spiritually inclined people for their long periods of meditation? We can try some of that as we set up camp here for the night!

Tapovan (4,460M) to Bhojwasa (3,775M) - 6 km

We trace our steps back through the familiar territory to get to Bhojwasa.

Bhojwasa (3,775M) to Gangotri (3,415M) - 14 km

We give Chirbasa a skip on our way down and head on directly to Gangotri.

Gangotri (3,415M) to Dehradun (640M) - 245 km

The day is a long drive back to Dehradun. Expect to reach Dehradun by early evening and plan your journey ahead accordingly.

Reserve Day

In case of bad weather or other difficulties which might set us off schedule during the course of the trek, Day 8 is set as a reserve day. This will only get used if unexpected and unforeseeable conditions present themselves at the last minute preventing us from reaching our destination as planned. If the buffer day is used, you have to pay Rs. 2,500 per day (INR). The amount will be collected by the Trek Leader.

What's Included

• Camping during the trek
• Veg Meals as per menu on all trek days
• Gaiter, Micro-spikes, and Helmet as required
• Trek Permissions Fee, if any (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
• First aid medical kit including oxygen cylinder
• Experienced Guide and Support staff
• Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification
• 2 Nights Hotel Stay in Gangotri

What's Not Included

• Portage of personal bags during the trek
• Cost of any kind of Travel Insurance.
• Any Expense of personal nature.
• Any Expense not specified in the inclusions list.
• Meals during road journeys

Are you Eligible for this Adventure?

Located at an elevation of 4,460M, Gaumukh Tapovan is a moderate level trek which for its difficulty level is suitable for anyone with some prior experience of high-altitudes.

Max Altitude

BRS Level Required

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a level 4 adventure on the Bikat Rating Scale.

This makes it mandatory for you to have high-altitude experience of preferably multiple treks marked at level 3 on the BRS. The altitude, the terrain and the nature of the climb demand a certain level of skill and a need for you to be aware of how your body reacts to the various features of high altitude environment.

If you do not know what level of BRS trek would suit you best, worry not! Fill out this Form:

we will send you a progression chart to help you comfortably get out of your comfort zone in order to level up and ultimately reach your highest potential in the big, bad world of outdoor adventure.

Packing List

This is a list of essential items for individuals doing the trek with Bikat Adventures. This list contains only those items which the participants are required to bring with them. The list excludes those items which are provided by Bikat Adventures on the trek. We have divided the items into five categories. All the items in the list are essential except for those marked as optional.

Trekking Gear

• Ruck sack bag with rain cover. Qty -1
• Day Pack Bag - Recommended for treks with summit day
• Head Torch with spare Batteries. Qty -1
• U V protection sunglasses. Qty -1 Here is how you can choose the best sunglasses for trekking.
• Water Bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each
• Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes Qty -1
• Pair of light weight Slipper/Sandals Qty -1
• Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. Qty - 2
• Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts. 1 for every 2 days of trekking
• Pair of thick woolen socks. 1 pair for every two days of trekking
• Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. Qty-1
• Undergarments. Qty - 1 for every day of trekking
• Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck .Qty-1
• Full sleeves sweater. Qty -1
• Rain wear ( Jacket & Pants ) . Qty-1
• Pair of waterproof, warm gloves. Qty-1
• Woolen cap. Qty-1
• Sun shielding Hat. Qty -1
• Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)
• Sun screen lotion small pack. Qty -1 Here is your Sun Protection 101 to stay safe in the bright sunny outdoors.
• Lip Balm small pack. Qty-1
• Small size, Light weight & Leak proof lunch box. Qty-1
• Plate. Qty- 1
• Spoon.Qty-1
• Tea/Coffee (plastic) Mug.Qty-1

Miscellaneous

• Camera (Optional)
• Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.
• Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

Eligibility, is this adventure good for me, what’s a good fitness benchmark for this adventure, what skills do i need to complete this adventure, what is the minimum and maximum age limit, about the activity, where is it located, what are some of its highlights, what are some of its challenges, what is the best season for this, what is the accommodation type, what is the temperature like here, is it technically challenging, connectivity, how do i reach the starting point, is there cellular network available throughout, where is the nearest atm, if i choose to travel to the base with you, what is the pick-up point, what time is the drop-off on the last day, what are the nearby attractions that i can explore, equipment & gear, what equipment is provided to us, what can i rent from you, where will i receive the rented items, where do i have to return the rented items, what gear do i need to bring, are there local shops to rent/buy equipment, facilities & additional services, can i offload my bag, can i leave any extra luggage i carry at the base of this adventure, what are the meals like, what are the washroom/ toilet facilities like, what should i do if i get my period on this adventure, what are the medical facilities available to me on this adventure, are there any electricity charging points on this adventure, mandatory documents, what documents do i need to carry, do i need insurance for this, do i need a permit for this, certification, do you provide a certificate of completion, when and how will i get the certificate of completion, international travel, will i need a visa, when should i apply for the visa, what kinds of insurance do i need to travel here, what is the specialty of this when compared to other mountain ranges, till which month can i make a booking for this, what is the qualification of the outdoor leader provided to us, how do you choose your outdoor leaders, is it safe for women, what is the ratio of outdoor leader to participants, what do you do in case of an emergency, what are the rescue options on this adventure, how do you choose your equipment, can i attempt this adventure if i have a specific medical condition, sustainability, what kind of camping do you practice on your outdoor adventures, why are you against fixed camping in the outdoors, how do you manage overcrowding on certain trails, what are some things to remember when using a dry toilet, why should i avoid wet wipes in the outdoors, where should i dispose of my sanitary waste if i am on my period, why should i carry my own utensils on an outdoor adventure, booking process, what happens after i make the payment, do you create a whatsapp group of participants before the start date of the activity, do i need to submit a medical certificate, do i need to submit an undertaking form.

Small Group Size

Our batch sizes are capped at 15 for smaller treks with the trek leader and trekker ratio of 1:8. This ratio, in our years of experience, has proven to deliver the best trekking experience for individuals as well as groups. Capping the size of the group ensures individual attention to each trekker so that no signs of distress or need during the trek go unnoticed. It also helps to form a more cohesive cohort with better group energy which helps define the rhythm and pace of days on the trek. As you go higher up on the BRS scale, since the stakes are higher, expeditions have an even smaller group size with the ratio of expedition leader to climber set at 1:2.

Qualified Trek Leaders

We follow a rigorous regime of hiring and training our experts in the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience in the field. In addition to their qualification, they also go through practical and situational training to tackle any and all kinds of sudden conditions that may present themselves on the ground. Being unpredictable is the core nature of the mountains but being ready for any circumstance as best as possible is a controllable asset that we try to nurture. Our field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response. Watch: Forerunners - The Making of A Trek Leader At Bikat Adventures

Guided Progression

Since Bikat Adventures is a learning-based organization, we help you climb up the ladder of difficulty within the sphere of outdoor adventure systematically. Our on-ground training modules are designed to handhold you through the upskilling process so that you are ready to take on bigger challenges.

Equipment Quality and Check

All the gear used on our treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality, and is overall top-notch in quality and condition. We are continually looking to obtain the best of everything there is in the market so as to ensure optimum safety.

Support Systems

Along with the staff you see on-ground, we have a team of superheroes working in the background to give you the best experience possible. Our background team also comprises local staff from each area who know the region best. Having local support helps with studying the area, pre-planning, execution, and in receiving timely support in case of emergencies in these remote locations.

Communication

Our on-field staff is in constant contact with our teams based in primary locations so as to eliminate any avoidable delay in reaching additional help and support when required. We try to use the best tools for communication available, including satellite phones, in regions where they are not restricted.

What our customers Say

Cancellation Policy

Cash refund

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date

5% deduction

Cancellations between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure date

50% deduction

Cancellations within 15 days prior to departure date

Voucher refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date

No Deduction

Cancellations within 5 days prior to departure date

• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers
• This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

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Gaumukh Tapovan Trek – A Complete Guide

A scintillating adventure – The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Gaumukh is the place, which is known as the terminus of the Gangotri glacier and it’s a source of the primary streams of Gangotri river.  This beautiful place is located in Uttarkashi, in the state of Uttarakhand and is a very well known trekking place. This is a very historic and religious and many stories revolve around the name of this place, as it looks like the mouth of the Cow. It’s situated around 18 kms away from Gangotri, and a speedy Bhagirathi river flows through this place.

The scenic views are breathtaking with pieces of broken snow all around and the snow glaciers; it’s definitely one of those heavenly places. This is one of the holiest lands in Uttarakhand and has great mythological history, always bustling with devotees from all over India, to experience the serenity and purity of this place. This place is what is known as the birth of North Indian mythology due to the incarnation of river ganga, and so many stories surround this origination.

About the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

The Gaumukh tapovan trek is one of those mesmerizing and beautiful places, that is going to give you a spiritual and sensational adventure and it takes you to the Gangotri glacier which is known to be the mouth of the holy Ganges River. The entire 24 km long expanse is a beautiful experience that you will never forget. It starts from the Gaumukh expanse and extends up to the Chaukhamba massif which is around Badrinath . Walk through glacial hues, from the start to the end, you will see the mesmerizing backdrop of Mount Shivling, and you will descend through The Tapovan meadows back to Gangotri.

This is trek is definitely a visual treat and perfect thrill for you, other than the Shivling range, there is Bhagirathi twin peak and Mount Meru. The best part about this trek is you get to witness, the magnificent river that was the reason of life for an entire civilization living there, originating from the Gaumukh snout and eventually meeting the Ocean; it’s an actual spiritual moment. Starting from the Gangotri glacier, the Bhagirathi river flows through Gaumukh and then becomes the river Ganga. Witnessing this beautiful amalgamation is the experience of a lifetime. There are intensely sacred theories surrounding the birth of this river and it is said to have been made to give new life to men, and it the realms of the river are held by Lord Shiva himself.

An Adventure that will Amaze You

The trek passes through larger than life mountain landscapes and gives you an opportunity to camp at the rugged heights, from where you will see the snow covered peaks very closely. The splendid sight of Bhagirathi peak, shining in the moonlight, and the alluring Shivling range from Tapovan, rising in all its glory, will leave you ecstatic. This trek is not an easy journey, but definitely worth the hustle.

The trek to Tapovan ahead of Gaumukh is another thrilling experience; Tapovan means the forest of spirituality. This place exhibits a deep love for nature and travel. This place is named after a sage who is still worshipped here. The place is filled with meadows, streams and flowering plants and it’s one of most amazing high altitude meadow of India. The high points here include the Amrit Ganga, that flows into the glaciers and also the place named Nandanvan, which is another trekking trail often taken up by trekkers here.

The trek to Gaumukh Tapovan is going to be a spiritual trip and a great dose of adventure. It’s going to be a dramatic trail to a place that can never have civilisation but has the most beautiful scenery and wilderness that you will see in the entire world. You need around seven days to soak in the entire beauty of this phenomenon trek. Brace yourself for a long hike, with lots of rough roads, and climate changes, and take up this beautiful journey, that you will remember.

Things to know about the adventure – tips and more

The first thing that you should know before heading on to this lovely adventure, is that you need to get permission from District Forest Officer to be allowed to take this trek, there are limited permits for each day, hence you should book this in advance. You should be well aware that this place has been damaged due to the floods in 2013, so it’s a landslide-prone zone always, hence you should take precautions for your safety. You will get to witness a few wild animals here, like the Bharals which are mountain antelopes, you should stay on the roads and not really venture too inside the jungles at night, to avoid any dangerous interaction with the animals. The only night halting stop after altitude of 10000 ft is Bhujbasa, which has facilities for staying and refreshing before you continue the trek.

And right after the halt, the trek leads you to Gaumukh snout, and eventually the majestic views of Mount Shivling. There are no horses allowed on this trail, so you should be ready to walk through the entire journey. And then begins the trek to Tapovan, this route has become difficult after the floods, you have to cross the glacier after Gaumukh and then reach Tapovan, which quite a risky trail nowadays. The tracks are not certain, you will most definitely have a guide, but it’s very important to take precautions, the climb can be very stiff at the end, it’s going to be a very tough and challenging experience.

How can one reach the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek ?

There are number of options available to travel to the base camp of Gangotri Glacier, you can take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and then drive up to the base camp, or you can take a train to Dehradun, it’s even accessible by road, you can take buses or private vehicles from Dehradun to Gangotri Glacier.

What are the accommodation and other facilities for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek ?

Since it’s a trek, most of your accommodation is going to be in camp tents, but there are guest houses and home stay options available at a few stops. You will get decent meals, and sanitary facilities, and there will always be a trained professional guide available to take you through this adventure.

Are there any restaurant or food facilities available at this place?

Not many eating options will available to you at this trek since it is a non-civilised territory.  The guest houses at Bhajibusa have some basic meals available and you should pack a lot of dry snacks for this place.

What is the best time to go for th is Trek ?

You can visit this place either during Summer or Autumn that is May, June or September, and October. The weather is mild and pleasant in the day time during summers and the nights are relatively chill. And they say, the best time to go for trekking is during the onset of snowfall in September and October, the place looks even more picturesque, but you should do all the bookings in advance as there are very limited options for accommodation.

What are the essential things that one must carry for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek ?

There is a list of things that you shouldn’t miss out on taking here because it’s a moderate level trek, listing a few most important ones are a wind jacket, woolen, and thermal clothes, cap, gloves, trekking shoes that are comfortable, raincoat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and personal medicines.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) how much in advance should one book the trek.

You should book the trek at least 2 months in advance, which will give a decent amount of time to prepare for the trek

2) Is there any minimum age requirement for this trek?

Since it is a moderate level trek anyone above the age of 10 years can take up this trek, but it is at your own risk

3) What is the minimum temperature at this place?

During May and June, the lowest temperature goes up to 2-degree Celsius, while during September and October it can go in minus.

4) How many hours does one trek in a day?

You will trek around 6-8 hours every day, to cover up to 10-15 km distance in a day.

5) Is it safe to drink stream water here?

Yes, it is safe to use stream water for drinking and cooking here.

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek 2024 | Cost, Itinerary, Tips

Region: Uttarakhand

Base Camp: Gangotri

Grade: Moderate

Distance: 46 km

Min Age: 16 Years+

Best Season: Summer and Autumn

Trek Description

If you have ever wondered about a trek beyond adventure, Gaumukh Tapovan is a perfect destination. It is one of the most revered places in India, that offers you both adventure and spirituality. Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand , Gaumukh Tapovan trek starts from Gangotri town and later ends in the same town. It takes around 6 nights and 7 days of total time to complete this journey successfully. During this timeframe, you will already be hiking to an altitude of 14,150 feet covering around 46 kilometers in distance.

Gangotri serves as the base camp for not only Tapovan Trek but also several other treks and expeditions. You can have an enjoyable journey visiting the famous Ganga Temple here and also the changes in landscapes and the beauty they come with.

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek takes you through the remote trail surrounded by the dense Deodar and Pine trees in Chirbasa and rugged terrain in the Bhojbasa areas. Exploring the local natural wonders, you will walk through the remote terrain before reaching Bhojbasa, where you can camp overnight. Bhojbasa was named after the dense forest of Bhojpatra ( Himalayan Birch ) found in the region. It is also a perfect site for sightseeing the Bhagirathi peaks. During the trek, you will find blue sheep grazing over the cliffs and valleys.

Despite all these, Gaumukh Tapovan trek is also challenging, requiring trekkers to walk through loose rocks and steep landscapes. However, the views of Mount Shivling, Bhagirathi massif, Sudarshan, Meru, Kedar Dome, Gangotri Glacier and Chaturangi Glacier make this trek worthy.

While the Gaumukh Tapovan trek is physically demanding, it also weaves in spiritual and cultural elements. This adventure isn’t just about conquering nature’s challenges; it’s also an experience that blends physical exertion with spiritual enrichment.

Drive Distance : 245 km

Drive Time : 9-10 hours

Altitude : 10,300 ft

The journey to Gaumukh Tapovan starts from Dehradun , where you can reach the spot via flight, bus, or train. From Dehradun, you will begin your journey to Gangotri, passing through the major landmarks such as Landour , Moriana Top , Uttarkashi , and Harsil .

In Uttarkashi, take time to purchase any necessary items. Remember, this is the last town where you will have multiple ATM services, so it is recommended to withdraw the essential cash from here.

Past Uttarkashi, we will cross Khedi Waterfall at Maneri, Jhala , Harsil , Dharali , and Bhaironghati .

Gangotri is a town where you can dive deep into the spiritual values. There is a Ganga Maiya Temple, where you can get insights into local Hindu religion and its significance. 

Apart from that, Gangotri features numerous shops, restaurants, and hotels. So your stay here will be worthwhile for sure.

By the time you reach Gangotri, you will already be 3,415 meters above sea level. At such high altitudes, it is challenging to adapt due to low oxygen in the air and air pressure. As a result, trekkers might suffer from altitude related illnesses like AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).

To avoid the dangers of altitude sickness, we will acclimate at Gangotri on the second day. We will start our day with a morning visit to Ganga Maiya Temple and explore the ancient cultural significance reflected in the architecture and sculpture.

Also, we will visit the nearby places, such as Surya Kunda , Pandava Gufa , and Ganga Ghats . 

Most importantly, we will take rest to retain energy for the remaining trek. It is very important to have enough sleep, take proper diet, and hydrate yourself for proper acclimatization.

Trek Distance : 15 km

Trek Time : 6-8 hours

Altitude Gain : 2,650 ft

Altitude : 12,480 ft

Today, we will begin our journey early in the morning after a warm breakfast. After a few kilometers, we will reach the forest checkpoint and Ram Mandir. Take a few minutes to rest as your trek leader generates the final trek permit for all the trekkers. Take a group photo here and leave for your journey ahead.

From Check Point , we must walk another 7 kilometers to reach Chirbasa . The remote trail stretches through the conifer forest , which offers opportunity to encounter the flora and fauna in the region. 

Before reaching Chirbasa we will come across a rock with spinkling water. The water from this sprinkler is full of minerals and really pure. Fill your water bottle here. 

A lot trekkers ask us why we don’t camp at Chirbasa. The reason for this is the Chirbasa campsite is small and cramped, and you won’t get a proper camping experience here. Chirbasa also doesn’t have views as Bhojpbasa campsite. That’s why we give our trekkers a much needed acclimatization day and take them directly to Bhojbasa so that they can enjoy the view of Bhagirathi and the whole valley.

Once you cross Chirbasa, the valley opens up, and Bhagirathi peaks comes into view. On the trail, you will walk with pilgrims, fellow trekkers, porters, and Mules. 

We will continue our hike towards Bhojbasa and cross multiple wooden bridges. Also, there comes a landslide area, where your balanced steps are a must. By evening, we will finally reach Bhojbasa, named after Bhojpatra. In ancient times, the leaves of Bhojpatra were used to write documents, state order, and religious texts. 

Trek Distance : 8 km

Trek Time : 7-8 hours

Altitude Gain : 1,876 ft

Altitude : 14,150 ft

On the fourth day of this trek, we will head towards Tapovan from Bhojbasa, which is around 8 kilometers away. We must cross Bhagirathi River via Trolley before reaching today’s destination. It can take 1-2 hours for the entire batch to cross the river along with the team. 

After that, we will pass through the pastureland rich in green shrubs and grass, where we can see Blue Sheep herds grazing. Gradually, we will find the landscape transforming into barren and rocky terrain.

Have lunch in between so that you can have the proper energy to climb Tapovan. You may not find water sources, so carrying 2 liters of water with you is advisable. 

Along the trail, you will also see Akash Ganga flowing downwards from Tapovan and merging with Bhagirathi at Gaumukh below. During May and June, Akash Ganga has more water as compared to Autumn season. In some sections, you may even need to cross the stream. In that case, walk with attention and safety, and remove your shoes if needed. 

The landscape is steep and challenging, so a gradual ascent is recommended. The trail leads us to Tapovan finally, which is a perfect place to view Gangotri Glacier, Bhagirathi Peaks, and Aakash Ganga. Similarly, the views of Mount Shivling and Meru Peak will welcome you with wide arms.

Visit Moni baba ashram if interested. From Moni baba Ashram walk ahead and from here, you will get to see the whole Gangotri Glacier , Chaturangi Glacier , Nandanvan , and Kedardome . 

You will surprised to know that Tapovan is also famous for Astrophotography and Stargazing . At night enjoy the clear view of the whole Milky Way galaxy . Just make sure to wear gloves, and winter clothes to avoid chills.

Trek Time : 6-7 hours

Altitude Loss : 1,850 ft

Today is one of the exciting days of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek. We will start our day with a sunrise view over Shivling , Bhagirathi , and Meru Peak. Then, we will prepare ourselves for a descent towards Bhojbasa, which takes around 6 to 7 hours.

After around 1 hour of descent, we will reach Gaumukh , the snout of Gangotri glacier. We will spend an hour or two here with fellow trekkers and pilgrims and then keep up on retracing towards Bhojbasa.  

We will then spend another few hours hiking downhill before finally reaching Bhojbasa, today’s destination. The views of the Bhagirathi peaks will still be offering us the enjoyable vibe here.

Trek Distance : 14 km

Altitude Loss : 2,750 ft

Day 6 is the day to return to Gangotri, the base camp of Gaumukh Tapovan. We will follow the same trail on a 6 to 7 hours long trek. The trail stretches through several wooden bridges and forest areas which will be exciting to pass by.

By noon we will reach Gangotri and check in to our hotel. Today, we will have enough rest and wrap up the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek. During the evening you have the option to attend the aarti ceremony and do some shopping.

After breakfast we will start our road journey to Dehradun. We will drive through the scenic road passing through Landour, Moriana Top, Uttarkashi, and Harsil. 

We will reach Dehradun by evening.

Note | Return Journey : Plan your return journey after 9 PM. Sometimes due to traffic, we can get late, that’s why it’s advisable to have your return tickets booked after 9 PM.

What’s Included and Excluded?

Price inclusion.

• 3 Nights stay in Gangotri
• 2 Nights camping in Bhojbasa and 1 Night camping in Tapovan
• Meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 7 breakfast
• All the required forest and camping permits
• Sleeping bags, Mattresses, Tents and dining tent
• Helmet, Ecobag, and First aid kit with oxygen cylinder
• Certified Trek Leader
• Trek completion certificate

Price Exclusion

• Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
• Meals during the transportation
• 5% GST is not included
• Any items not mentioned in the inclusion section
• For backpack offloading additional fee of INR 2000 will be charged
• Any expenses arising from emergencies or personal expenses
• Transportation from Dehradun to Dehradun is add on at INR 2,500 per person

Things to Carry

• 45-60 Ltr Bag Pack With Rain Cover & Comfortable Straps
• Hot & Cold Water Bottle Like Borosil & Milton
• Energy Bar, Dry Fruits & ORS
• Personal Medical Kit
• 2/3 Full Sleeves (Non-Cotton)
• 1 Full Fleece T-Shirt
• 1 Fleece Jacket (Woollen Or Sweater)
• 1 Down Feather/Hollofil Jacket
• 1 Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
• 1 Pair Thermal Inners (Upper And Lower)
• 2 Trek Pants (Avoid Shorts & Denim Pants)
• 1 Pair of Waterproof Gloves
• 1 Pair of Woollen Gloves
• Woollen Cap
• 4 Pairs Of Cotton Socks
• 1 Pair Of Woollen Socks
• 1 Pairs Of Sunglasses (U/V Protected)
• 1 Neck Gaiters (Buff)
• 1 Waterproof & High Ankle Trekking Shoes
• 1 Pair Of Floaters
• Hand Sanitizer & Sunscreen Lotion
• Toothbrush And Toothpaste
• Toilet Paper
• Quick Dry Towel
• Lip Balm & Antibacterial Powder
• Moisturizer
• Aadhaar Card of any other Govt ID
• Medical Certificate
• Self Declaration Form
• Travel Insurance

How To Reach Gangotri

If you choose to reach Dehradun by flight, it is the easiest and quickest medium. However, the air flight does not take you directly to Dehradun, but to Jolly Grant Airport, the nearest airport from the city. It is located approximately 25 kilometers from the city center, where several domestic airlines operate regular flights to and from Dehradun. Upon landing at the airport, you can hire a taxi, vikram, or take bus to Dehradun.

It is recommended to book your tickets a month or two before your departure date. Last minute flight booking is usually higher than regular price.

If direct flights to Dehradun seem to be pricey, then it will be wise to take flights to Delhi as they are more affordable. From Delhi, you can reach Dehradun via state bus like UTC, or HRTC or use apps like Abhibus or Redbus. Railways and shared taxis are also good options.

Traveling by train is another great option to reach Dehradun. You can reach there within a short period as it is well-connected to major cities by train. The Dehradun Railway Station serves as the primary railway station while you can also always choose Haridwar Railway Station. You can book tickets on various trains connecting Dehradun to places like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and more.

You can also travel via road to Dehradun from your hometown. Dehradun is connected by National Highways from/to the major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Chadigarh. So it will not be a problem in getting a transportation to Dehradun; however, it might not be as quick as air flight.

Nevertheless, you can still enjoy the beautiful views of the Himalayan foothills during your ride.

Gangotri, the starting point for Gaumukh Tapovan, is approximately 237.1 kilometers from Dehradun. To reach there, you can hire a private taxi or take a bus from Dehradun, which takes around 7 hours.

Buses to Uttarkashi leave early in the morning from Dehradun Hill Station and Prade Ground. The bus ticket usually costs 350 – 400 rs. And shared taxi charges from 400-500 which can be booked in Rispana pul and Prade ground. To reach Uttarkashi by 12 PM, you must board the bus early in the morning around 5 am. Taxis from Uttarkashi bus stand to Gangotri leave till 2 Pm during the summer season and 12 pm in the autumn season.

Once you reach Uttarkashi, you can get a shared taxi to Gangotri, which charges 300- 400 RS and can be found at the Uttarkashi taxi stand.

We also arrange transportation services for our trekkers, with the pick up point being Prince Chowk, Dehradun and pick up time between 6 am and 7 am. An add on of INR 2500 will be charged from trekkers.

Note | Transportation Service : We also arrange transportation services for our trekkers, with the pickup point being Prince Chowk, Dehradun and pick-up time between 6 am and 7 am. An add on of INR 2,500 will be charged from trekkers. 

Difficulty Level of Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

The difficulty level of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is moderate. It can be completed in 7 days; 2 days for travel from Dehradun to Gangotri and Gangotri to Dehradun, 1 acclimatization day, and a total of 4 days of trekking. Similarly, you will travel approximately 46 km as you reach the maximum altitude of 14,150 ft above sea level.

Yes, this trek has a moderate difficulty but it does not mean that you don’t have to prepare. You must be very careful in packing your trekking gears, physical and mental health, and acclimatization. You will go through the remote trail that features a rockfall section, steep ascend, and changes of altitude sickness. That’s why it’s important to come prepared. 

The trail from Gangotri to Bhojbasa is around 14 km with gradual ascend and altitude gain of 2,650 ft . Trekkers usually take 6-8 hours to cover this distance depending on their physical fitness. 

Between Gangotri to Cheerbasa is good. After Cheerbasa, there are some rockfall sections that you have to be careful about. 

The next difficult section is the ascend of Tapovan. Boulder, rocks, gravel and steepness make it a bit challenging. Be careful here and avoid moving any rocks with your footsteps. Trekkers take around 2 hours to complete this ascend. 

The most important thing is that you walk for 6 to 7 hours for 4 days, which will be physically exhausting. So, to complete this trek you need endurance and physical strength which you can train your body before starting this trek.

Best Time for Gaumukh Tapovan

Preparing for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek must be done properly, and choosing the best time to go for this trek falls under it. Considering this topic, the best time depends on what trekkers expect from this journey. Some might like to travel during the winter while some in other seasons. But there are several parameters that indicate the ideal time for taking on this journey. 

Summer Season:

Summer season, starting from May, is the season when the weather is most stable. With temperatures being moderate during this timeframe, most trekkers prefer trekking during this time. The clear skies, mild temperature, minimal rainfall, and clear vision are some of the advantages of the summer season.

Temperature during this time ranges from 17 degrees Celsius to 1 degrees Celsius.

In June mid week or end week you may also get to see new born Lambs of Bharal or Blue sheep. 

This is also the time when gates of Ganga Temple opens up. You will get to see lot of pilgrims in this season and trail will have more people as compared to Autumn season. 

Autumn Season: 

Autumn starts from the month of September and remains till October. The weather and climate patterns are somehow similar to the Spring season. Moderate temperature, clear skies and views are the major features of this timeframe.

Autumn starts after the end of the monsoon, so you can still enjoy the views of the greenery around the Tapovan region. Average temperature during this time ranges from 15 degrees Celsius to -3 degrees Celsius. Sky remains clear and sunny offering perfect views of Bhagirathi Massif and Shivling.

Can I Go For A Winter Trek to Gaumukh Tapovan?

Off-season trek to Gaumukh cannot be done since the Gangotri National Park remains closed during the winter season. This is because the high altitude locations in Tapovan areas get freezed due to extremely low temperatures. Average temperature ranges from -2 degrees celsius to -15 degree celsius.

More Info of Gaumukh Tapovan

Gangotri temple & mukhba village.

Gangotri Temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess, Ganga. People believe that Goddess Ganga descended from heaven after Bhagirathi Ji earned the blessings from Lord Shiva from his intense meditation. 

The Goddess Ganga temple witnesses a grand procession that starts from Mukhba village. Mukhba is located above Harshil.

The temple itself has a deep-rooted historical connection, as it was renovated by Amar Singh Thapa, an army general during the Gorkha rule.

Bhagirath Rock (Shila)

One of the most notable landmarks is Bhagirath Shila, which lies at the footstep of the Gangotri Temple. People believe that it is the same place where King Bhagirath earned blessings from Lord Shiva from his deep meditation after which he sent Goddess Ganga from heaven.

To this time, Bhagirath Shila stands as a symbol of his devotion and connection between humans and the holy Ganga River.

Pandav Gufa:

Pandav Gufa (Cave) is another popular landmark in this region. It is situated a few kilometers away from Surya Kunda, along the left bank of the Bhagirathi River. It is also known as Patangana or Pandava Gufa as Hindu myths suggest that it is the same place where Pandavas arrived during their ‘Banabaas’ journey.

Also, it is believed that the place is where Pandavas performed a Dev Yagya, seeking redemption for the sin of cow-killing. Their journey continued from here, leading them to the sacred destination of Kedarnath, tracing the banks of the Rudraganga.

Gaumukh Tapovan is located inside naturally enriched place, Gangotri National Park . It lies in Uttarkashi District and covers about 2,390 km2 (920 sq mi) in distance. The national park is home to several wildlife and plant species. From endangered species to the most common ones, this place shelters a wide range of flora and fauna.

Talking about green vegetation, you can find Himalayan birch trees, deodar , blue pine , and juniper inside the National Park.

The national park is also home to Bharals (Himalayan blue sheep), Himalayan bears , and Himalayan Griffon . Similarly, white leopards, also known as snow leopards, can be rarely encountered in this part. It is one of the most rare animal species in the world with only between 4,000 and 6,500 existing in the world currently.

While on this adventure, you can explore other beautiful destinations such as Harshil Valley , Nelang Valley , Uttarkashi , Gangotri Base Camp , Kedartal , and Suryakund .

Map of Trail

During the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, trekkers will cover a distance of 46 kilometers. Similarly, the altitude ranges from 10,300 feet in Gangotri to 14,150 feet in Tapovan.

The best time to do the Gaumukh Tapovan trek is Summer (May to June) and Autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather and climate patterns are stable with less chance of rain and snowfall.

The maximum altitude you reach during the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is 14,150 feet above sea level. 

Yes, you need a special entry permit for the Gaumukh Tapovan trek as it lies within the protected area of Gangotri National Park. The permit office above the bus stand at Gangotri, or from the District magistrate’s office in Uttarkashi offers this license.

Of course, you can always trek solo if you are a professional trekker. However, we recommend to trek with a group as it can help in saving your budget and also help to assure your safety.

Yes, every campsite is equipped with dry pit toilets. But you must carry your own toilet paper for your convenience.

Uttarkashi has ATMs where you can withdraw cash. However, cash availability can be limited, so it’s wise to make last-minute cash withdrawals in Dehradun before starting the trek.

Charging your gadgets might be always challenging during the trek. During Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, the last charging point you will get is at Gangotri. So it is recommended to carry spare batteries for cameras and a power bank with a capacity of more than 20,000 mAh to ensure you have enough power for the entire trek. 

Yes, Gaumukh Tapovan Trek takes you to the altitude of 14,150 feet above sea level. So altitude sickness is always a concern. It’s essential to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and dizziness.

Pure vegetarian food will be served with dishes like Rice, Dal, Roti, Vegetables, Parantha etc. If you are a Jain or have any special food requests then do let us know. Note : Only vegetarian food will be served.

In Gangotri, network is available via networks like Jio, Airtel and BSNL. After Gangotri no network is available. Our team member will be using Walkie Talkies for communication.

For foreign nationals, INR 5,000 will be charged extra. The reason for this is National Park charges more for foreign national permits.

As a foreign national you can make your payment via PayPal or Card.

Camera is allowed and you will have to pay a fee of INR 500 per day. Drone are not allowed in National Park.

Stay will be provided on a Triple/Quad sharing basis. In case you want single or double occupancy then additional cost will need to be paid. INR 6,000 for single occupancy and INR 4,000 per person if you are a couple/friend.

Aadhaar card, Declaration form, and Travel Insurance. If you are a teen then a parent’s declaration will be needed. If you are 60+ then a medical certificate will be required. And if you are a foreign national then your Passport will be needed for issuing permits.

Click on book now, enter the details like full name, city etc, and pay the amount. In between if you face any problem, reach out to us at +91 80896 93825 .

Customer Reviews

Priyanka Pareek

“I recently completed a solo trip to the Goumukh Tapovan trek with Himalayan Dream Treks, and I must say, the entire trek experience was incredible. From booking to completing one of my dream treks, every step was seamless. The travel arrangements, food, accommodations, and support—everything was perfect. A huge thanks to the Himalayan Dream Treks team (especially Soby Negi & Biru Bhai) for making it possible. HDT will be my go-to company for all future treks. Here’s my message to everyone reading this review—give it a try, and you’ll echo my words! Thanks again, Soby, for everything. Kudos! Keep up the great work!”

(October 2023)

Mukul M Mandpe

“Only one word for the Gangotri Gaumukh yatra trek – Amazing! Everything about it was amazing and the Himalayan dream treks was a major reason behind it. Our guide Sobi Negi ji was the best guide one could ask for with the best knowledge of the places we visited and about the mountains. Looking forward for more yatras and treks in the mountains”

Dibyendu Das

“My friends and I completed the Gaumukh Trek in May 2023. We were among the very few groups that chose to undertake this trek in May. I am truly thankful to “Himalayan Dream Treks,” especially to Soby, Viru, Mahesh Viya, Sangeeta Ji, and the entire team for all the arrangements. Looking forward to joining another trek with the team in the future. Himalayan Dream Treks has excellent management. 👍👍🤗”

Riya Sannal

“Incredible experience with Himalayan Dream Trekkers. We recently completed the Gomukh Trek with this group, and it was an amazing experience altogether. Our stay at Eshavasyam Ashram, camping in the snow, and enjoying hot and tasty food were on another level. They took great care of us, and providing Sangita as our guide was a bonus. She is awesome! We look forward to doing many more treks in the future with you guys. Keep up the excellent work!”

(September 2023)

“If you wish to have an adventurous experience and at the same time being relaxed throughout the trip than Himalayan Dream Trekkers should be the only choice. They have the best souls in their team, who will take care of you like their own. Any terrain or trek to be considered then I would strongly recommend Himalayan Dream Trekkers. They are the best in the Business. Thanks to – Soby, Mahesh ji, Rana ji, Sangeeta, Manoj ji and all the porters.”

“Thank you for organizing the trek @himalayandreamtreks. It was my first multi day trek and was an incredible experience. Will definitely go again sometime in future with them. The mighty mount Shiva we covered as part of gaumukh tapovan trek was awesome, and with this team assisting us the entire stint was even more amazing.”

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(To the Himalayas and Beyond)

GANGOTRI GAUMUKH TAPOVAN TREK

The Gangotri Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, also known as the Source of the Ganges, is an amazing trek situated at 14,640 ft above sea level in the Gangotri National park in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is a place where both people who love adventure and those on a religious journey go.

The name “Gaumukh” comes from the famous Gaumukh glacier, which is where the holy Ganges River begins.

The Gangotri trek is 48 km long trek which can be done in 6 days from Rishikesh to Rishikesh. The Gaumukh Tapovan trek  is famous for its beautiful landscapes, like the Bhagirathi peaks, Mt. Shivalinga, and many other famous peaks. You will see lush meadows in Tapovan and rocky areas with big boulders.

Gaumukh Tapovan trek also lets you feel connected to the spiritual importance of the Ganges River. Pilgrims come here to take holy water and a dip to seek blessings, and people who love adventure are excited by the natural beauty and challenges the gangotri gomukh tapovan trek offers. This route has been used for a very long time by spiritual seekers and is a dream come true for nature lovers.

During the Gangotri Gaumukh Tapovan trek, we will explore the special place called “Zero point” at Gaumukh snout.

 TREK COST : Rs. 25000/- PER PERSON

   Number of Days : 06 Days

  Gangotri to Gaumukh Trek distance : 18 kms

  Category : Moderate to Difficult Adventure

  Area: Gharwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand, India

  Highlights: Gangotri Temple, Gangnani hotspring, Glacial origin,   majestic peaks, serene meadows, spiritual journey, panoramic vistas

  Highest point: 4463 m

  Gaumukh Tapovan Trek best time: May to June & Sept till Nov

BRIEF ITENARY

Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Gangotri  (~ 3100 m/10170 ft) – 260 kms – 10 to 11 hours drive

Day 2:  Trek to Bhojbasa (~ 3780/12400 ft)– 14 kms – 7 to 8 hours. Camp for the night

Day 3:  Trek to Gaumukh (~ 4050 m/12280 ft) is 4 Kms – trek from Gaumukh to Tapovan  (~4350 m/14270 ft) around 5 Kms and to camping ground Near Mauni Baba Ashram  – 7 to 8 hours walk. Camp for the night

Day 4: Early morning explore Tapovan meadows and around. After breakfast descent to Bhojbasa – 6 to 7 hours. Camp for the night

Day 5: Trek back to Gangotri – 14 kms – 6 to 7 hours , drive from Gangotri to Gangnani  – 50 kms – 2 to 3 hours drive, overnight stay at gangnani

Day 6: Trek concludes, drive back to Rishikesh – 200 kms – 8 to 9 hours Drive

DETAILED ITENARY

Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Gangotri  (~ 3100 m/10170 ft) – 260 kms – 10 to 11 hours drive

Our journey begins at 6:30 AM. Then we drive to Gangotri along the river bank of river Ganga (Bhagirathi) and in the mid-way visit Hot spring and take a sulphur bath in Gangnani. On the way to our base camp, we will see the beautiful view of the Greater Himalayas, Harshil and green forest.

On arrival check in the homestay/ hotel in the evening as we visit the holy city Gangotri. By 7 pm we will see a nice Ceremony (Arti) of Goddess GANGA. Dinner and overnight stay.

Morning, you fill yourself with food needed for the trek to Bhojbasa that will take about 8 hours to cover. The scenery is just magnificent, and you cannot stop to admire the beauty of the forests and the valleys down below, especially Chirbasa or the abode of pine trees. The entire trek today is along the roaring Bhagirathi River.

Trek above the Bhagirathi River on a relatively groomed path to Chirbasa. Above Chirbasa, the valley widens and offers views of snow-clad peaks in the south. It is a gentle walk to Bhojbasa (3,780m). Running virtually due south-east along the river, the Bhagirathi peaks over a beacon to the source of the river.

Bhojbasa is the widest point in the upper valley, and camping here at night offers magnificent moonlit views of the Bhagirathi peaks. The trek further to Bhojbasa is along the path that slowly flattens out and dips suddenly to reveal Bhojbasa with a small temple and a potential campsite near the river. The camp is set up near the river.

Dinner and overnight stay in tents. Enjoy incredible scenery and sight of Bhagirathi and ShivLing Mountain, dinner and rest under the tent.

Day 3: Trek to Gaumukh (~ 4050 m/12280 ft) is 4 Kms – trek from Gaumukh to Tapovan  (~4350 m/14270 ft) around 5 Kms and to camping ground Near Mauni Baba Ashram  – 7 to 8 hours walk. Camp for the night

We will cross the river with a manual cable car first.  The first four kilometres upstream from Bhojbasa are surprising though the narrow valley. The path runs smoothly above the river and is fringed by a grassy meadow.

With about a kilometer to go, the terrain turns rocky, and one has to pick one’s way through the rocks and boulders, down to a sandy beach sheltered by enormous piles of granite. Incidentally, the beach is an excellent place to camp. Scour the water’s edge for shards of ice, or follow the broken path along the river’s edge to the very foot of Gaumukh (3,969m), and look up at the Shivling Peak (6543m) almost vertically above.

Once you have reached the southern (left) bank of the river valley, the path is marked with a steep climb of nearly a thousand feet to the meadows at the base of Shivling Peak. This is Tapovan, an exquisitely watered spot from which the fabled peak of Shivling appears to sweep up in a wave of screen, granite, and snow. It is an idyllic camping spot; alternatively, a couple of Babas have establishments.

Tapovan is a high-altitude alpine meadow below Mt. Shivling, which dominates the landscape. Tapovan is over 2 km in length. The area close to Mt. Shivling is wet during early summer due to melting snow and glacial water. These grounds have been used by many sages to meditate over the centuries. Descent down to Bhojbasa through Zero point at Gaumukh, The Source of the Ganges.

Day 5: Trek back to Gangotri – 14 kms – 6 to 7 hours , drive from Gangotri to Gangnani  – 50 kms – 2 to 3 hours drive, overnight stay

It’s time to trace the trail back. It’s downhill all the way till Gangotri, allowing time for a drive to Gangnani.

Our gangotri gaumukh tapovan trek concludes as we drive from tapovan from Gangnani to Uttarkashi at lunch and then drive to Rishikesh 200kms. At evening trip and services concludes with sweet memories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Gangotri Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

• What is the Gangotri Gaumukh Tapovan Trek? The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a trekking journey in the Himalayan Mountains of Uttarakhand in India. It is a trek along the Ganges River upto where it begins the journey to Gaumukh glacier.
• Where is the Gangotri Gaumukh Tapovan Trek located? This trek is located in the Gangotri national park in the Garhwal Himalayas of India.
• Is there a permit required ? The permit is obtained enroute from Uttarkashi. The Gaumukh Tapovan trek permit cost is included in the overall package cost, you do not have to pay anything extra.
• What is the Gaumukh?  It is called Gaumukh because there is a famous glacier here that looks like a cow’s mouth. In Sanskrit, “Gaumukh” means “cow’s mouth.” The source of the river Ganges originates from here.
• What can I see during the trek?  You’ll see stunning landscapes with big mountains like Bhagirathi peaks and Mt. Shivalinga. There are also lush green meadows and rocky areas with broken rocks called moraine.
• Is Gangotri and Gaumukh a holy place?  Yes, many people come here on a religious journey. They believe that the Ganges River is holy, and its source is at Gaumukh. Pilgrims seek blessings here.
• Can anyone go on Gaumukh Tapovan trek?  While it is a bit challenging as it is graded as moderate adventure so anyone with good health and some trekking experience can go.
• How long does the Gaumukh Tapovan trek take?  The trek usually takes about 6-8 days, depending on your starting point and pace.
• What is Tapovan ?  Tapovan is a beautiful meadow. It is the base for Mt Shivalinga, situated at 14640 feet above sea level. where you can enjoy the serene surroundings. Tapovan is a place where many ancient sages meditated for years.

    PHOTO GALLERY

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Gaumukh tapovan trek.

• Pre-monsoon

Fixed Departure:

Pre-Monsoon 2024 Dates

• 11,18 & 25 May 2024
• 1,8,15 & 22 June 2024

Send Your Requirement:

Brief description.

The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, is a captivating journey that unfolds amidst breathtaking landscapes and spiritual significance. Commencing from Gangotri, the trail meanders along the Bhagirathi River, passing through dense forests and revealing awe-inspiring views of the Bhagirathi peaks. The trek reaches its pinnacle at Gaumukh, the sacred source of the Ganges River, offering a profound spiritual experience. Continuing further, the route leads to Tapovan, a mesmerizing meadow framed by the imposing Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi peaks. This alpine haven allows for exploration and reflection, with opportunities to climb nearby vantage points for panoramic views. As trekkers descend, they traverse back through Chirbasa and Bhojbasa, concluding the expedition back at Gangotri. The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek not only challenges adventurers physically but also presents an immersion into the pristine beauty and spiritual essence of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Highlights and Key Features

Technical detail, participant eligibility and health requirements for the trek.

Age Limit: Participants from 08 years and above are welcome to join the Trek.

Experience Level: First-timers are encouraged to apply, and while previous trekking experience is appreciated, it is not mandatory.

Physical Fitness: Participants should be capable of carrying a 12 kg Rucksack (backpack). Fitness is crucial, and climbers must possess sufficient stamina to cover a distance of 4 km in 32 minutes without experiencing undue stress.

Health Requirements: – Resting pulse rate: 60 to 90 beats per minute – Blood Pressure: Diastolic 75 – 85 mm Hg, Systolic 100 – 130 mm Hg – Resting respiratory rate: 12 to 20 breaths per minute – No history of liver and kidney issues – Absence of Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Epilepsy, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc. – No existing health issues that might adversely impact the participant during the trek – BMI under 25 (Exceptions for individuals with heavy bone density and those regularly engaged in weightlifting exercises)

Pre-Existing Conditions: Participants with any pre-existing medical conditions or those currently on medication must declare it in the Self Declaration form.

Special Casual Leave for Government Employees: Parvat Exploration, a registered adventure tour operator, allows government employees to avail of  Special Casual Leave (SCL)  for up to 30 days in a calendar year, as per the rules of the Pay Commission. This benefit applies when participating in trekking or mountaineering expeditions organized by a registered adventure organization like Parvat Exploration.

Special Note for Junior Trekkers: For participants below 15 years, a parent or guardian must accompany them. Trekkers aged 15 to 18 can participate solo but must provide a signed disclaimer form from a parent or guardian.

Parvat Exploration ensures that participants meet the necessary health and fitness criteria, promoting a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in the breathtaking landscapes of the Uttarakhand Himalayas

Day 1: Arrive in Gangotri (3065 M):

Begin your Gaumukh Tapovan Trek by departing from Dehradun early in the morning, embarking on a scenic drive to Gangotri that spans approximately 10-12 hours. Your journey commences as you arrive in the sacred town of Gangotri, nestled at an altitude of 3065 meters. Take in the spiritual ambiance and check into your accommodation. Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude and exploring the revered Gangotri Temple. Meet your trekking guide for a briefing on the upcoming adventure. Enjoy a wholesome dinner and rest for the trek ahead.

Day 2: Gangotri to Bhojbasa (3785 M). via Chirbasa:

After breakfast, embark on your trek from Gangotri to Bhojwasa, The trail follows the gushing Bhagirathi River, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush greenery. Arrive at Bhojwasa, a scenic campsite situated at an elevation of 3785 meters. Set up camp, enjoy the panoramic views, and acclimatize to the higher altitude. Dinner will be served at the camp, and you’ll spend the night surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains.

Day 3: Bhojwasa to Tapovan(4452 m) via Gaumukh ( 4105 m):

Resume your trek towards the mesmerizing Tapovan, passing through the sacred Gaumukh, the source of the Ganges. The trail takes you through rugged terrains and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Arrive at Tapovan, an enchanting high-altitude meadow at 4452 meters, surrounded by towering mountains. Set up camp and marvel at the breathtaking scenery. Dinner and overnight stay at Tapovan.

Day 4: Exploration Day at Tapovan : Today is dedicated to exploring the beauty of Tapovan and its surroundings. You have the option to hike to nearby viewpoints, witness the grandeur of Shivling Peak, and absorb the spiritual energy that permeates the area. Spend the day in contemplation or capture the stunning landscapes with your camera. Dinner and another night at Tapovan.

Day 5: Tapovan to Bhojwasa

Bid farewell to Tapovan as you descend back to Bhojwasa. The downhill trek offers a different perspective of the landscape, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the region. Arrive at Bhojwasa, where you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest.Dinner and overnight stay at Bhojwasa.

Day 6: Bhojwasa to Gangotri:

Commence your trek back to Gangotri, retracing your steps through the scenic trail. Arrive in Gangotri by afternoon, where you can explore the town or visit the sacred Gangotri Temple once again. Check into your accommodation, rest, and savor the memories of your mountain adventure. Dinner and overnight stay in Gangotri.

Day 7: Depart from Gangotri to Dehradun:

On the final day, bid farewell to the holy town of Gangotri. Depart for Dehradun, reflecting on the spiritual and natural experiences encountered during your trek. The journey back provides scenic views as you travel through the mountains. Arrive in Dehradun, marking the end of your sacred journey. Depart with a heart full of memories and a sense of reverence for the majestic Himalayas.

Inclusion & Exclusion

• Accommodation in lodge on day 1 & 6 & camps on day 2,3,4&5 on triple sharing basis.
• Forest permits/camping charges,
• Delicious & nutritious vegetarian food ( meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks & dinner).
• Day 1 dinner to day 7 breakfast.
• Camping equipment (sleeping bag, mattress, 4-season tents,toilet tent& dining tent).
• Trek guide, cook, helpers, porters & services of a certified trek leader (BMC or AMC qualified).
• Transportation from Dehradun to Gangotri and back to Dehradun.
• Technical equipment like gaitors & spikes
• Safety equiptments: basic first aid , oxygen cylinder, ropes
• Meals during road journeys.
• Permit for Foreign Nationals.
• Carriage of Personal Bags during the trek.
• Any kind of Insurance.
• Any expense of personal nature.
• Rental of Personal Equipments.
• Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.
• Any evacuation cost or Medical treatment cost.
• Any extra costs incurred caused in the event of finishing the expedition early.
• Tips for local guides or porter.
• Any cost arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, landslides, road condition and any other circumstances beyond our control.

Things to Carry

Essential Trekking Gear: 1. Rucksack bag with rain cover – Qty: 1 2. Day pack bag (recommended for treks with summit day) 3. Head torch with spare batteries – Qty: 1 4. UV protection sunglasses – Qty: 1 5. Water bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each Footwear: 6. Non-skid, deep-treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes – Qty: 1 7. Pair of lightweight slipper/sandals – Qty: 1 Clothing: 8. Quick-dry warm lower or track pants – Qty: 2 9. Full sleeves T-shirts/sweatshirts – 1 for every 2 days of trekking 10. Pair of thick woolen socks – 1 pair for every two days of trekking 11. Thermal body warmer upper & lower – Qty: 1 12. Undergarments – Qty: 1 for every day of trekking 13. Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck – Qty: 1 14. Full sleeves sweater – Qty: 1 15. Rainwear (jacket & pants) – Qty: 1 16. Pair of waterproof, warm gloves – Qty: 1 17. Woolen cap – Qty: 1 18. Sunshielding hat – Qty: 1 Toiletries: 19. Personal toiletries kit (small towel, toilet paper, paper soap, bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.) 20. Sunscreen lotion small pack – Qty: 1 21. Lip balm small pack – Qty: 1 Utensils: 22. Small size, lightweight & leak-proof lunch box – Qty: 1 23. Plate – Qty: 1 24. Spoon – Qty: 1 25. Tea/coffee (plastic) mug – Qty: 1 Miscellaneous: 26. Camera (optional) 27. Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek. 28. Dry fruits, nuts, chocolate bars (optional) Note: This comprehensive list covers essential items for a trek with Parvat Exploration. Adjustments can be made based on specific trek requirements and personal preferences. Participants are advised to double-check with Parvat Exploration for any trek-specific recommendations or variations in the list.

Parvat Exploration: Your Trusted Himalayan Guides

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Parvat Exploration – where expertise meets passion. Here’s why choosing us for your trek is the key to an extraordinary Himalayan experience:

1. Highly Qualified Team, Seasoned in Indian Mountaineering : Join a team of seasoned mountaineers with a wealth of experience navigating the challenging terrains of the Indian Himalayas. Our expertise is your assurance of a trek that combines adventure with safety and knowledge. 2. Exclusive IMF Associate Membership: Trust your journey with the best, as three of our team members hold an esteemed position as associate members with the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF). This exclusive membership is limited to only 100 individuals in India, highlighting the caliber and dedication of our team. 3. Local Expertise – Meet Team Parvat Exploration, a Himalayan Native : A proud local born and raised in Uttarakhand. The Himalayas are not just our workplace; they are our home. With Team Parvat Exploration as your guide, you’ll experience the mountains through the eyes of someone deeply connected to its culture, people, and nuances. 4. Accredited by ATOAI, IMF & Uttarakhand Tourism: Parvat Exploration proudly stands as an affiliated firm with the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF), and Uttarakhand Tourism. Our triple accreditation underscores our commitment to responsible and high-quality trekking adventures. 5. Safety is Our Pledge: Your safety is our topmost priority. At Parvat Exploration, safety isn’t just a priority; it’s a fundamental principle that guides every aspect of our treks. Rest assured, you’re in capable hands as we navigate the trails with your well-being as our foremost concern. 6. World-Class Equipment: Equip yourself with the best, as we provide world-class gear. Our equipment is meticulously maintained and regularly updated to meet the highest industry standards, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the trek. 7. Delicious and Nutritious Food with Local Delicacies: Savor the journey with our culinary delights. Our team takes pride in offering not just nourishing meals but also a variety of options, including delicious and nutritious local dishes. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the region as you trek through the breathtaking landscapes. 8. Expert Trek Leaders – AMC Qualified: Our trek leaders are not just leaders; they are minimum AMC qualified from recognized institutes. This ensures that you are guided by professionals who understand the nuances of mountain terrain and are well-prepared for any challenges that may arise. 9. Seasonal Specialization – All Year Adventure: Parvat Exploration specializes in mountaineering during the prime season and offers captivating winter treks. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of summer ascents or the serene beauty of winter landscapes, we have the expertise to make your trek extraordinary, regardless of the season. Choose Parvat Exploration for a trek that transcends the ordinary. Your Himalayan adventure awaits, crafted with expertise, passion, and a commitment to making your journey truly exceptional.

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Registered address.

150 Harbajwala, Dehradun, Uttarakhand: 248171

Garhwal Head Office

228 Ward No 05, Barkot, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand: 249141

Kumaon Head Office

Matena, Near KMVN, Almora, Uttarakhand: 263601

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Parvat Exploration

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+91 94561 12947, +91 95281 25747, [email protected], affiliations.

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