-
Basecamp
Gangotri, Uttarakhand -
Pick & Drop Point
Dehradun Railway Station -
Trek Grade
Moderate Plus -
Trek Duration
8 Days -
Highest Altitude
4,460 mtr -
Trek Distance
45 Kms
Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Trek To The Source Of Ganga
TREK FEE
₹ 21,850
₹ 17,850
- + 5% GST
Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
This Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is considered one of the most well-known Himalayan treks that will take visitors to some of India’s holiest and most mysterious places. Doing this trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will not be missed! The trek starts at Gangotri and goes towards the source of the River, Gaumukh. The trek also takes you to Tapovan, the meadow, where spiritualists and sages sit. An 8-day journey blends spirituality, mythology, and thrilling adventure, and The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek takes you through the Gangotri glacier to the spot that is thought to be the source of the holy River Ganga. It’s a trek that trekkers have loved from across India for centuries. When you stroll in the meadows and fields around Tapovan, you’ll get glimpses of the imposing Shivling Peak and the Bhagirathi sisters from the top. The views from these mountains are breathtaking. The meadows also belong to many saints who meditate and stay here forever. The trek to Gaumukh is arduous and deemed easy to moderate by the experts. With proper planning, even a novice can successfully complete the process.
Highlights of Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Tapovan
Gaumukh Tapovan trek is a fantastic trek in the Bhagirathi valley of the river. It takes you to the summit of Mt Shivling and the Bhagirathi sisters. It is among the most exciting and thrilling hikes in India.
On the first day, when the trek begins at Gangotri, trekkers can walk along the riverbank and climb up to a high meadow in the alps known as Tapovan. This meadow with high altitude is the ideal spot to camp, and it serves as the base for mountaineering trips up to Mount Shivling and Mt. Meru.
The trek will take you amid mountains and a wide range of natural beauty. The hike traverses through grasslands and forests, and the view is stunning.
On your trek’s third and final day, You will arrive at the Bhojbasa campsite. The campsite is quite secluded; however, the views are breathtaking. You can enjoy a relaxing time in tents.
Gangotri Glacier
The Gangotri glacier is believed to be one of the biggest in the Himalayas. It’s it is a water source for the Ganges River. The Ganges is a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus. But, scientists note that it is currently in retreat and melting faster than before.
According to researchers who study this issue, the reason is that there is less ice being formed to replace the melting glaciers caused by global warming. This process is speeding up due to causes like burning in agriculture and forest fires that cause the glacier to heat up.
Thus, the most suitable season to travel to Gangotri is mid-April, from June through September and November. The weather during this time isn’t too cold and neither too hot. It means it is safe to trek.
From Gangotri, you’ll trek through the gurgling Bhagirathi river to Gaumukh, where you will see the glacier and witness the beginning of this holy river. The trek takes you through the stunning Tapovan meadow, frequented by thousands of pilgrims and mountaineers throughout the year.
Neel Taal
From the starting point of Gaumukh from the base of Gaumukh to Tapovan, The trek is both a spiritual and exciting journey. The hike is moderately complex to hard; therefore, it needs a good fitness level and previous experience. Spectacular mountain views enhance the drive. From this point, it is possible to view the Shivling summit, the Bhagirathi group of peaks, and other snow-covered mountains. It is also possible to view the Neel Taal and its surrounding lakes. It’s a great spot to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Day Wise Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun To Gangotri - 250 km By Road (7-8 Hours)
- Height: 3,093 meters / 10,147.64 feet.
- The pickup time will be 6:30 A.M at the Prince Chowk Dehradun Railway Station.
- It will be 250 Kms which takes 8 to 9 hours.
- Night stay will be in a hotel or guesthouse.
Driving to Gangotri from Dehradun is one of the most beautiful roads in the country. It is a must-see route for every traveler who wishes to explore the picturesque hilly regions of Uttarakhand. Set out to begin your journey from Dehradun early at 6.30 A.M. The trip will last longer since you will travel 250 kms from Dehradun to Gangotri. It is an incredible eight hours of riding through the majestic mountains. We begin early to reach Gangotri at the end of the day. Gangotri is the principal pilgrimage town in India and is among the Char Dham Temples. It is situated on the banks of the river Bhagirathi. Just 35kms away from Dehradun, the first important attraction is Mussoorie, The well-known hill station. The Hill station has stunning views of the Shivalik Mountains. After a lunch break and some exploring throughout Dhanulti, Chamba, you will arrive at the Land of the Gods, Uttarkashi.
Located in Uttarakhand, Uttarkashi is a sacred spiritual town on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. It is a famous pilgrimage spot, with thousands of devotees visiting yearly. Vishwanath Temple of Lord Shiva is one of the major tourist spots in Uttarkashi. The river Bhagirathi will take you to the beautiful Harshil village. Harshil is famous for its apple orchards everywhere, providing an opportunity to relax your eyes. Harshil is the perfect spot to spend a peaceful evening in the mountains. There is the Holy Gangotri City. Located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, Gangotri is known as a popular location for pilgrims coming from India. It is a vital part of the Char Dham Yatra circuit. Many devotees from across the nation come to this holy town to offer their prayers and bathe in the holy water of Ganga. Enjoy a fantastic meal prepared by our cooks in the evening and relax in the guesthouse.
Day 2: Gangotri To Chirbasa By 9 kms Trek
On the first day, your trek from Gangotri to Chirbasa is about 9 kilometers. The route starts by following the Bhagirathi River and climbing to the woods’ top. The path is well-defined and includes several stops to rest and admire the magnificent panorama of the Himalayas.
The trails mostly have low inclines and are level. Continue for another 20-30 minutes, and you’ll be able to witness another stream flowing beneath a rusted bridge. Once you cross the bridge, the valley widens and then turns left. Take in the various mountain ranges covered in snow along the right-hand side. After about 20 minutes of trekking from the forest check post, you will spot three major streams along your route. Sudarshan Parbat is not visible anymore. The trail now swivels to your left as you traverse the third ridge. It gives you a stunning panorama across the valley. Relax in the calming presence of silver birch trees surrounding you.
After a couple of hours of hiking, you’ll arrive in Chirbasa, Chirbasa located in an altitude range of 3,280 meters. Chirbasa is a small town with a couple of shops and basic guesthouses. It is possible to stay the night in Chirbasa’s guesthouses or tents and take in the tranquil surroundings. The campsite here has a fantastic view from the Bhagirathi, the group of mountains as well as Bhrigu Parvat. Today’s walk is easy but traverses 8-9 landslide-prone bends. It is essential to take plenty of water on this trek.
Day 3: Trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa
- Height: 3,555 meters / 11,714 feet
- Trek Distance: 8.9 km | 5 hrs approx
- Today trek will be in Gangotri National Park
- Stay will be in tents.
- Lunch at the campsite.
- Trek will be moderate.
Is trek between Chirbasa to Bhojbasa is a strenuous but rewarding adventure. On the trek, you’ll enjoy views of several breathtaking Himalayan mountain ranges, such as Shivling, Thalay Sagar, Meru, and Bhagirathi III.
The first couple of miles is smooth and marked. After that, the trail gets rocky and steep at a few locations. You might have to go boulder hopping in some spots; however, this part of the trail is worth it when you view the breathtaking views you’ll get.
In this area, observing the Bhagirathi collection of mountain peaks and the Gangotri Glacier is possible. Take some time to take in the beauty of this area.
We’ll spend the night in Bhojbasa If you want to. A small temple, an Ashram, and a GMVN rest House exist.
The trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa is shorter and covers about 5 km. Suppose it can be completed in 3-4 hours. The route is well-marked and mostly flat, which makes it a simple trek. However, it’s essential to know the necessary precautions since the altitude could affect certain hikers.
The trail starts from Chirbasa, located at 3,660 meters above sea level. From Chirbasa, you’ll trek through the Bhagirathi River, which flows through stunning deodar forests and pine trees. Also, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains.
After trekking for about 2 hours, you’ll arrive at Bhojbasa, 3800m above sea level. Bhojbasa is a gorgeous meadow that is surrounded by mountains. It is an ideal location for camping.
During the trek, it is possible to experience many of the breathtaking scenery in the region, such as the Bhagirathi River and the Gangotri glacier, and stunning images from The Himalayan mountains.
Day 4: Acclimatization At Bhojbasa
During an acclimatization day, trekkers are advised to take a break and drink plenty of water and avoid vigorous activities so that their bodies can adjust to the altitude. An acclimatization day aims to prevent the effects of altitude sickness and ensure an enjoyable and safe trek.
Day 05: From Bhojbasa To Tapovan through a 6.1 kms trek
- Today trekking will take about 9 hours
- Distance of trek: 6.1 kms
- Height of Tapovan: – 4,451 meters / 14,611 feet
- Stay: will be in tents
- There are no water points. It is recommended to carry at minimum 2 two liters of water.
- Today trekking will be Moderate, Plus
- Keep energy bars, water & ORS
- Trek starts over boulders. It then gets steeper slowly over the rocky terrain.
- The river can be crossed employing the trolley.
- There are mountain goats or Ibex close to your campsite.
- You will see Mt. Shivling, Meru, Manda and the Bhagirathi bunch, Kedar Dome, Kharchakund, and many more from the Tapovan campsite of Trekup India.
In the Gaumukh Tapovan trek on Tapovan day, following a 20-minute walk from Bhojbasa Campsite, We created a Tyrolean traverse to traverse the Bhagirathi river. There is also a small zipline set up by the forest authorities. It will assist you in crossing the river. It takes about one hour for all the participants to traverse. Following that, you begin the trek, which will take around 2.2 kms and is on an obvious path with stones and rocks. Afterward, it becomes a gradual climb. Then, you have to climb the rock face to reach Tapovan.
The climb is near Akash Ganga, which runs vertically down the rock face. Make sure to climb this section before lunchtime to avoid rockfalls and to reduce the amount of water flowing through Akash Ganga. The climb can take about an hour to two hours, depending on the weather. After about 100m of a climb, you will find places to traverse Akash Ganga. If the water is very high, removing your shoes and walking across the stream is necessary. In other cases, the boulder-hopping option is feasible. Stop for a break when you cross the stream. Lunch can be served here. Tapovan is a grueling climb from this point. It can take approximately 1.5 hours to get there. Find an appropriate camping site and then camp out for the night.
The views of the mountains from the Tapovan campsite are breathtaking. It is possible to see Mt Shivling to the right. Meru is located to the right of Shivling. The left-hand side is Shivling; just a bit to the left is Sumeru. To the left, you can see Bhagirathi Peaks, Thenu, and Sudarshan Parbat. If you go to the ashram accessible from the camping area, Shivling appears even closer.
Tapovan is an alpine at high altitude meadow beneath Mt. Shivling and monopolizes the terrain. Tapovan is stretched in 1.6 kms. While it’s broad, level terrain but only some pieces of terrain are convenient for camping. The region near Mount Shivling is saturated in the summer because of melting glacial waters. Many saints have used these areas to contemplate over time. Numerous holy men reside in permanent residence at Tapovan.
A 1.2-mile trek from Tapovan to the adjacent peak goes Neelatal and leads you to a viewpoint from which you can enjoy stunning panoramas of Meru. It takes around two hours to get to the camp. After it, you must walk up the ridge to get to Neelatal or continue along that similar trail until Tapovan.
Day 05: Tapovan to Bhojbasa by 5.9 kms trekking through Gaumukh
- Location of start: Tapovan is a high-altitude meadow at 4,463 meters above sea level. The trek starts at Tapovan and descends downhill to Bhojbasa.
- Distance: The distance between Tapovan towards Bhojbasa is about 5 km.
- Level of difficulty: The hike is moderately strenuous and suitable for those just beginning. It is marked, and the terrain is relatively easy. However, hikers must be aware when they descend because the trail could be slippery at specific points.
- Duration: The trek lasts 3 and 4 hours, depending on the hiker’s fitness level and speed.
- Terrain: The path from Tapovan towards Bhojbasa is a descending trail, a mixture of grassy meadows. It is also possible to traverse through a river on their route.
- Highlights: The trek provides incredible panoramas of Himalayan mountain ranges, which include Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi. These meadows between Tapovan and Bhojbasa are also fantastic sights to behold.
The trek begins at Tapovan, at an altitude of 4,463 meters (14,640 feet). You’ll have to walk around 14 km (8.7 miles) to get to Bhojbasa, 377 meters above sea level (12,385 feet). The hike is as moderate to challenging and ideal for those with experience. The path winds through steep hills, rocky ground, and narrow pathways. We suggest you know the dangers and carry all equipment and gear to complete the hike. During the trek, you’ll travel across The Gangotri National Park, home to various wildlife and plants. Also, you’ll be able to witness many spectacular images of the Bhagirathi mountains, including Shivling, Thalay Sagar, and Meru.
Get up early to enjoy the last few minutes in the shadow of mountains that shine in the blazing sun’s beams. Today will start trekking to Gaumukh Glacier. Mount Shivling appears prettier than ever, and its beauty is passed on to nearby mountains. Together they create an impressive scene. It’s time to bring these moments back after breakfast. We will provide you packed lunch with you and drink as much water as possible since there aren’t any water sources. You’ll need to traverse the rough landscape and elevation of the glacier. It is harder to descend than ascend, and you’ll know this as you traverse the rocks. Be aware and stroll. Make sure to remember the moment as you go back through the steps. Take in the forest areas of Bhojwasa yet again, with its wildlife and flora.
It’s a very steep climb to Gaumkuh, and you’ll be able to view the massive glacier. Gaumukh is the terminus of the Gangotri glacier, the point of origin for the holy Ganges river. Gaumukh is a reference to a cow’s mouth. Many religious people think it a blessing to go to the Ganges. Even if you’re not religious, you’ll be amazed by how large and small the snout faces it.
According to legend, once upon a time, a mighty king named Sagar wanted to carry out the Ashwamedh Yajna with a ceremonial sacrifice horse. Believing that Sagar would be able to complete the Yajna ceremony and be able to complete the Yajna, Lord Indra rode the horse and placed it in the Ashram of Lord Kapila, in which he would meditate. Sagar sent out thousands of his sons to retrieve the horse. His practice was interrupted when they started causing chaos within the Kapila Muni ashram. He resigned every son to ashes and cursed that they could achieve Moksha only when their ashes were buried in the waters of the sacred River Ganga and ascended to heaven. The entire Sagar family members failed to convince Brahma to bring Ganga back to Earth; however, King Bhagirath successfully pleased Brahma and ordered Ganga to flow through Earth. The goddess Ganga was not thrilled with this and spewed forth in such a way that she was set to drown all of the world. Bhagirath then offered prayers for God Shiva, and Shiva was willing to lock Ganga with his hair to manage the force, which is how Ganga was brought back to Earth. One dip in Ganga is considered sufficient to eliminate a person’s sins. Then after a sharp climb to Gaumukh, trek down the hillside along the Bhagirathi River. It’s about a 4.5 – 5.5 hour walk to Bhojwasa. After reaching, we will stay tonight at Bhojwasa campsite.
Day 06:Bhojbasa to Gangotri By 14 kms Trek
- Location of start: Bhojbasa is situated at 3,775m above sea level. The trek begins in Bhojbasa then descends towards Gangotri.
- Distance: The distance between Bhojbasa to Gangotri is around 14 kilometers.
- Difficulty: The trail is moderately tricky and suitable for novices. It is marked, and the terrain is relatively easy. However, walkers must be aware when they descend because the trail may be slippery at specific points.
- Duration: It will take 5 to Six hours, depending on the hiker’s fitness level and speed.
- Terrain: The route that runs from Bhojbasa up to Gangotri is a descending trail, which is of forest and rocky areas. The trekkers can also traverse a river along the route.
The distance between Bhojbasa and Gangotri is about 14 km, and it takes 5-6 hours to complete the hike. The path is well-marked and easy to follow, making it ideal for those new to the trek. However, walkers must be cautious when descending because the trail may be slippery in certain areas.
The hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains, which include Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi. The trekkers will also encounter several small waterfalls and streams along the route. The forest areas in the foreground contain a variety of wildlife, including the musk deer and Himalayan Black bears. The natural beauty and beauty within site are stunning, and the hike offers the perfect opportunity to be in touch with the natural world.
When the trek ends in Gangotri, this is an ideal time to discover the spiritual significance of the town. Gangotri is, where the river Ganges was born, considered one of India’s holiest spots. It is the home of many ancient temples and ashrams, and pilgrims travel across the nation to pay tributes to the saint.
In the end, the hike from Bhojbasa through Gangotri is an essential activity for those who want to take in the splendor of the Himalayas and discover its spirituality. With breathtaking views, a well-marked trail, and the chance to learn about the region’s culture, it is an unforgettable trip that you won’t miss.
Day 08: Gangotri to Dehradun By 245 kms Drive
- The starting point is Gangotri: Gangotri is a small town situated at an elevation of 3,415m over sea level within the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The drive starts in Gangotri and then descends towards Dehradun.
- Distance: The distance between Gangotri from Gangotri to Dehradun is around 250 kilometers.
- Condition of the roads: The route between Gangotri and Dehradun are among the most mountainous roadways, passing through many small towns and villages. The road’s condition is generally good, although some bumps and spots are due to landslides or other natural elements. Time: The drive can be anywhere from 8 to 10 hours based on the road conditions.
- Highlights: The road offers breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayan mountains, which include Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi. The route winds through many small towns and villages, where you can taste the local culture and food. It is also possible to go to the Tehri Dam, one of Asia’s most significant hydroelectric projects.
- Drop Location: Dehradun Dehradun is a city located at the foothills of the Himalayas. It is famous for its mild weather, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage. There are many tourist attractions in Dehradun, such as the Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, and the Tapkeshwar Temple. It is also ideal for adventure sports such as camping, trekking, and Rafting.
Conclusion, the trip to Gangotri towards Dehradun is an adventure. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and an opportunity to experience the region’s culture. But, it’s essential to be aware of the dangers and be aware when driving over rugged terrain. With its picturesque beauty and historical heritage, Dehradun is a beautiful place to finish your trek.
Trek Cost Inclusion
Trek Cost Exclusion
- All kinds of personal expenditures are excluded.
- Anything that we have not mentioned avobe.
- The trek cost is not inclusive of meals bought during the journey on 1st day and last day. ( Food starts from dinner at base camp on day first till last day lunch ).
- Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage (Offload Charges for bag 700 per day, per bag. Note: bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges
Trek Logistics
How To Reach Dehradun?
By Air:
Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to reach Dehradun by flight that is located almost 25km away from the city. You can find regular flights from Delhi to Dehradun.
However, if you are planning to reach Dehradun by flight then it is better to come one day in advance.
By Train:
In case, you want to reach Dehradun from Delhi by train then two express trains are quite convenient. With the train, it is an overnight journey. The two trains are mentioned below:
- Nandadevi Express – Train no: 12205 (Departure 11:50pm; Arrival – 5:40am)
- Dehradun Express – Train no: 12687 (Departure – 9:10pm; Arrival – 5:00am)
By Bus:
From Delhi, you can find a regular bus service for Dehradun. ISBT Kashmere Gate is the main bus station in Delhi from where you will find both ac and non-ac buses for Dehradun.
However, it is always better to take government buses from Kashmere Gate ISBT. The bus will drop you at Dehradun ISBT and then we will send our staff who will pick you up from Dehradun Railway Station, so you need to reach there.
- At 06:00 am, Travller, Bolero or any other vehicle like this will only pick you up from Dehradun Railway Station.
- By 04:00 pm, you will be reaching Sankri.
