Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Get ready to start the journey from Dehradun early in the morning. The day will be long as you cover 241 km to Gangotri. It will be a beautiful eight-hour ride through the mighty mountains.

The first major attraction is Mussoorie, the famed hill station. This hill station offers a majestic view of the Shivalik Ranges. With a stop for lunch and some sightseeing through Dhanaulti and Chamba, you will reach Uttarkashi, often called the Kashi of the North.

Uttarkashi lies on the banks of the river Bhagirathi. You will see temples and devout pilgrims all around, making you feel that you truly are in the land of the Gods. The river Bhagirathi leads you to the scenic Harshil village. Harshil is known for its apple orchards, a delightful treat for the eyes. Harshil is the perfect place to enjoy a serene evening amidst the mountains.

Even after a long ride to Gangotri, you will wish it would not end. Gangotri sits on the banks of the river Bhagirathi. You can stroll through the local market and mingle with local people. In the evening, enjoy dinner and rest at the guest house.

Today you'll be walking through the pine forests aboard the astounding Bhagirathi stream. There’ll be gradual ascents however it'll be a simple 4-5 hours trek. Throughout the route lovely Sudarshan Parbat (6530M) can accompany you. You’ll additionally come upon some waterfalls and streams that you refill your water bottles. The complete walk is within the Gangotri park.

This will be the best 2-3 hours of trekking with a gradual ascent. The path widens, offering closer views of the Bhagirathi peaks. You will cross some landslide sections that are easy to navigate. As you trek, you will spot a flat clearing where tents are set up for you — that is the Bhojwasa campsite.

The name Bhojwasa comes from the Bhojpatra trees (Birch trees) that are found here in abundance. This is the widest part of the valley, offering you the first view of Mount Shivling.

The trek to Gomukh is fairly straightforward. Gomukh is the terminus of the Gangotri glacier and thus the source of the sacred Ganges River. Gomukh literally means "cow's mouth" — it is believed the glacier's snout once resembled a cow's mouth.

The path from here narrows and is filled with rock boulders. The rocky moraines on the glacier make the climb challenging, but it also means there is no need for technical equipment. You can use a trekking pole to ease the climb. The final trek to Tapovan crosses a rocky stretch; once you cross it, you will be delighted to reach the famous meadows with a closer view of the magnificent Mt. Shivling (6543M).

Tapovan is known for the Sadhus who come here for meditation. It is also the base camp for expeditions aiming to summit Mt. Shivling. It offers a direct, close-up view of Mt. Shivling, which is considered one of the most sacred and beautiful mountains. Don’t miss the sight of Mt. Meru and Bhagirathi peaks.

Today you once again cross the rocky terrain and moraines of the glacier. Descending is harder than ascending, as they say — you will notice this as you make your way around the boulders. Watch your steps and move carefully. Take in the moments as you retrace your steps.

After a steep descent to Gomukh, walk down the trail alongside the Bhagirathi river. It will be a 6-7 hour trek until Chirbasa. Then you will be back among the familiar pine forests. As expected, you will be camping beside the river, between the mountains, beneath the pine trees.

Trek for around 3-4 hours covering 9km to Gangotri. You can stop at streams and waterfalls to refill water bottles. Bid farewell to the Bhagirathi and the mountain peaks as they gradually disappear from view.

Morning drive to Dehradun airport/railway station to go back to Home town.