The Gaumukh Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that takes you deep into the heart of the Indian Himalayas. The trek starts from the town of Gangotri and takes you on a journey through beautiful meadows, dense forests, rocky terrain, and high-altitude glaciers. Along the way, you will encounter stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi peaks. You will also have the opportunity to visit the source of the Ganges river at Gaumukh, where you can witness the river emerging from the ice. The trek culminates at Tapovan, a high-altitude meadow with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. This trek is a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas and to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the local communities.
The trek takes you right up to the snout of the Gangotri glacier , where you can see the river emerging from the ice. The views here are stunning, with the glacier and surrounding peaks towering above you. This is a unique and humbling experience that puts into perspective the power and majesty of nature. The visit to Gaumukh is also an opportunity to learn about the cultural and religious significance of the Ganges river to the people of India. Many pilgrims make the journey to Gaumukh as part of their spiritual journey, and it is a humbling experience to witness their devotion and commitment.
The Gaumukh-Tapovan Trek is a difficult trek that requires a good level of fitness and preparation. The trek covers a distance of approximately 45 km over 8 days, with daily hikes ranging from 5-9 km. The terrain is varied, with steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and high-altitude glaciers. Altitude sickness can be a concern, and it is important to acclimatize properly and take precautions to avoid altitude sickness. The trek is also remote, and there are few facilities along the way. It is important to carry all necessary supplies, including food, water, and camping equipment. It is recommended to undertake the trek with a guide, who can provide valuable insight into the local culture and traditions, as well as ensure your safety and well-being.
The trek to Gaumukh and Tapovan is not only a physical journey but also a cultural and spiritual journey. Along the way, you will encounter local communities who have lived in these mountains for generations. You will also encounter Hindu temples and shrines, which are an important part of the spiritual journey for many pilgrims. The trek offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and to gain a deeper understanding of the significance of these mountains to the people of India. It is a journey that will challenge you physically and emotionally, but also one that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the beauty and diversity of the world around us.
In addition to the stunning landscapes and challenging terrain, the Gaumukh Tapovan hike also offers the opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditions of the region. The trek takes you through several small villages along the way, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.
One of the highlights of the trek is the chance to witness the source of the Ganges river at Gaumukh. According to Hindu mythology, the Ganges is a sacred river that is believed to wash away sins and grant salvation to those who bathe in its waters. The trek offers a chance to witness this sacred river at its source, and to gain a deeper appreciation for its significance in Indian culture and religion.
Another highlight of the trek is the opportunity to witness some of the most stunning peaks in the region, including Shivling peak, Meru peak, and Bhagirathi peak. These peaks are among the most impressive in the Indian Himalayas and offer a breathtaking backdrop to the trek.
Overall, the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that offers a chance to explore some of the most stunning landscapes and cultural traditions of the Indian Himalayas. With the right preparation and mindset, the trek can be an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression on those who undertake it.
Drive: 240 km, 8-9 hrs
Altitude: 2,100 ft (640 m) – 10,000 ft (3,048 m)
Accommodation: Guest House / Hotel
Meals: Dinner
On the first day of the trek, trekkers arrive in Gangotri, which is situated at an altitude of 3,100 meters. Gangotri is a small town that is known for its religious significance as the starting point of the Ganges river. The town is also the gateway to several trekking routes in the region, including the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek. Trekkers spend the day exploring the town, visiting the Gangotri Temple, and acclimatizing to the high altitude. The day is spent resting and getting to know fellow trekkers, who come from all over the world to experience the natural beauty and spiritual significance of the trek.
Trek: 9 km, 4-5 hrs
Altitude: 10,000 ft (3,048 m) – 11,811 ft (3,600 m)
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
On the second day of the trek, trekkers start their journey from Gangotri and follow the Bhagirathi River upstream. The trail is mostly flat and passes through dense forests of pine and deodar. Trekkers can hear the sound of the river in the background and catch glimpses of the surrounding mountains through the trees. The first campsite is at Chirbasa, which is named after the abundance of trees in the area. The campsite offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and trekkers can spend the evening relaxing and acclimatizing to the higher altitude.
Trek: 5 km, 3 hrs
Altitude: 11,811 ft (3,600 m) – 12,467 ft (3,800 m)
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
The third day of the trek involves a relatively short but steep ascent to Bhojbasa, which is situated at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The trail continues along the Bhagirathi River. The views along the trail are stunning, with towering mountains in the background and the sound of the river in the foreground. The campsite at Bhojbasa is situated at the foot of the Gangotri glacier, and trekkers can see the glacier in the distance. The campsite offers a stunning view of the Bhagirathi peaks, which are bathed in golden light during sunrise and sunset.
Trek: 6 km, 7 hrs
Altitude: 12,467 ft (3,800 m) – 12,795 ft (3,900 m) – 14,222 ft (4,335 m)
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
The fourth day of the trek is the highlight of the journey, as trekkers visit the source of the Ganges river at Gaumukh. The trail from Bhojbasa to Gaumukh is steep and rocky, and the last stretch involves crossing the Gangotri glacier. The glacier is a surreal landscape of ice and rocks, and trekkers need to be careful while walking on it. After reaching Gaumukh, trekkers can take a dip in the icy-cold water and offer prayers at the temple. We then proceed to Tapovan from Gaumukh. The route from Gaumukh to Tapovan is a steep and short climb. It takes about 2-2.5 hrs to reach there. Set up your camps at Tapovan and enjoy the the majestic views of Meru peak, Bhagirathi I,II,III peaks. Tapovan also acts as the base camp for Shivling and Meru offers grand majestic views of Shivling peak.
Trek: NA
Altitude: 14,222 ft (4,335 m)
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
Rise early in the morning to enjoy the spectacular sunrise that turn the towering peaks of Shivling, Bhagirathi I,II,III and Meru on fire.
The area around Tapovan is known for its stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance, and trekkers can spend the day taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding mountains. The Shivling peak is a highlight of the area, and many trekkers spend the day exploring its base or meditating in its shadow.
Trek: 11 km, 6 hrs
Altitude: 14,222 ft (4,335 m) – 11,811 ft (3,600 m)
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
This is a long walk from Tapovan to Chirbasa is over 10-11 km but since you will be going downhill, you would not take as much time as it took to climb up. You will have a packed lunch en route and reach Chirbasa by late afternoon. Camp the night under the starry skies at Chirbasa.
Trek: 9 km, 5-6 hrs
Altitude: 11,811 ft (3,600 m) – 10,000 ft (3,048 m)
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
Retrace the trail up to Gangotri and follow the Bhagirathi River all the way up to Gangotri.
Check in to your hotel rooms here at Gangotri take a hot shower and rest up for the night.
Drive: 240 km, 8-9 hrs
Altitude: 10,000 ft (3,048 m) – 2,100 ft (640 m)
Meals: Breakfast
Post breakfast, start your drive to Dehradun. It is a long drive of about 10 hrs. About 1-1.5 hrs prior to reaching Uttarkashi, we reach a quaint place called Gangnani where you may take a dip in the natural hot water Sulphur Springs here.
You will reach Dehradun by 7-8 PM. The trip ends here.
Snow capped mountain peaks appearing from the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Mesmerising views of the Gangotri Valley en route Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Magnificant Himalayan river visible from Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Spectacular views of High mountains of Himalaya; Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
High altitude Himalayan Mountain Peaks appearing from Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Himalayan Ibex; Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Gaumukh Glacier en route Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Adventure lovers embarking on the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek with Himalaya Shelter Team
Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Snow capped Mountain peaks of Himalayas appearing during the Trek. Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a high altitude Himalayan Trek.
The Divinie Sight of Gaumukh; Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
The best time for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is during the summer months, from May to June, and post-monsoon season from September to October.
The trek offers stunning views of peaks like Shivling, Bhagirathi, and Meru, the spiritual experience of reaching Gaumukh, and the serene Tapovan meadows.
The trek typically takes around 6-7 days to complete, covering a distance of approximately 45 kilometers round trip.
Accommodation on the trek is in tents or basic lodges, offering a rustic and immersive experience amidst nature.
The distance from Gangotri to Gaumukh is approximately 18 kilometers (11.2 miles) one way.
Running or Jogging: Start with a comfortable distance and gradually increase your pace and distance over time. Aim for at least 3-4 days a week of cardio workouts.
Hiking Practice: If possible, try to find local trails or hills to practice hiking. Start with shorter hikes and gradually increase the difficulty.
Strength Training:
Flexibility and Mobility:
“I have been doing treks with Himalaya Shelter for the last two years and they are awesome people with pure humbleness.“
Writes Priyesh.
We at Himalaya Shelter consider our trekkers part of our community, a family of sorts and really understand the efforts that you put into taking that much-needed break and setting off to the mountains. Some of you may wait for months and even a year to plan out that perfect excursion. That’s why we want it to be “a perfect excursion” for you.
Our testimonials (read below) are a testament to our service-oriented mindset.
We take safety into great consideration and ensure our team is trained to handle emergency situations.
For a better experience, we provide accommodation on Twin Sharing throughout the trek. With most trekking operators you would get triple or even quad sharing accommodation.
Our Accommodation will have attached washrooms
Furthermore, we provide the essential safety gear for your trek –
Without any additional charges.
We pamper you with great food which keeps you going on the trek. (On our google maps out of 300 reviews over 80 Trekkers mention great food😋)
We do not outsource services to ensure topmost quality throughout your journey. We use our own fleet of Vehicles to ferry you to the base camp and return.
Gaumukh Tapovan is a high-altitude trek in the Garhwal Himalayas that takes you to the source of the Ganges River, the Gangotri glacier. It offers breathtaking views of the glacier, Bhagirathi peaks, and other surrounding mountains.
The trek is typically a 6 to 8-day round trip, covering a distance of approximately 48 to 50 kilometers, depending on the specific route taken.
The Gaumukh Tapovan trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves trekking at high altitudes, and participants should have a good level of fitness and stamina.
Yes, a permit is required to enter the Gangotri National Park, which is part of the trekking route. The permit can be obtained at the Gangotri checkpoint.
Some essential items to pack include trekking clothing, a good pair of trekking shoes, a backpack, water bottles, snacks, a first aid kit, a rain jacket, a hat, sunglasses, a headlamp or flashlight, and any personal medications.
Mobile network coverage is limited along the trek. It’s advisable to inform someone about your itinerary and carry a satellite phone or a communication device for emergencies.
Gaumukh is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), while Tapovan is located at around 4,463 meters (14,640 feet) above sea level.
Shivling (6,543 meters): Shivling is one of the most famous peaks in the Garhwal region. It’s known for its distinctive pyramid shape and is clearly visible from Tapovan.
Meru Peak (6,310 meters): Meru Peak is another prominent peak in the Garhwal Himalayas. It’s known for its challenging climbing routes.
Bhagirathi Group of Peaks: This includes peaks like Bhagirathi I, Bhagirathi II, Bhagirathi III, and Bhagirathi IV. They are named after the River Bhagirathi, one of the main tributaries of the Ganges.
Sudarshan Parbat (6,507 meters): Also known as Thalay Sagar, this peak is part of the Gangotri Group of peaks.
Manda Parbat (6,273 meters): Manda Parbat is part of the Bhagirathi Group and adds to the breathtaking scenery of the trek.
Sumeru Parbat (6,315 meters): Also known as Matri, this peak is part of the Bhagirathi Group
The nearest ATM to Gangotri, which is the starting point for the Gaumukh Tapovan trek, is located in the town of Uttarkashi.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Gangotri is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gangotri. The journey by road can take around 7-8 hours.
By Train:
The nearest railway station is the Dehradun Railway Station, which is about 240 kilometers (149 miles) from Gangotri. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gangotri. The journey by road can take around 7-8 hours.
By Road:
Gangotri is well-connected by road to various cities and towns in Uttarakhand. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from major cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Uttarkashi to reach Gangotri.
Gangotri Temple:
Located in the town of Gangotri, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and an important religious center for Hindus.
Gangotri National Park:
Encompassing the entire trekking route, this national park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It’s a great place for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Bhagirathi Shila:
This rock, located near Gangotri Temple, is believed to be the place where King Bhagirath meditated to bring the River Ganga to the earth.
Bhairon Ghati:
Located about 10 kilometers from Gangotri, this scenic spot offers picturesque views of the Bhagirathi River.
Bhoj Kharak:
This beautiful meadow is en route to the Gaumukh Glacier and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Surya Kund:
This hot water spring, located near the Gangotri Temple, is believed to have medicinal properties. Pilgrims often take a dip here before visiting the temple.
Pandava Gufa:
It is believed to be the cave where the Pandava brothers sought refuge during their exile. It’s located about 1.5 kilometers from Gangotri.
Dodi Tal:
A high-altitude lake surrounded by dense forests, Dodi Tal is a beautiful trekking destination located about 60 kilometers from Uttarkashi.
Uttarkashi Town:
Uttarkashi, the district headquarters, is a charming town situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. It’s known for its temples, ashrams, and natural beauty.
Nachiketa Tal:
A serene lake located about 30 kilometers from Uttarkashi, it’s named after the legendary sage Nachiketa.
The minimum requirement to join our team, Trek Leaders should have done the Basic Mountaineer Course
Trek leaders in Himalaya Shelter have extensive experience in trekking and mountaineering. They are familiar with the specific terrain, weather conditions, and challenges of the region where the trek is taking place.
K R Venkat –
I just completed the GAUMUKH Tapovan trek with the team from Himalaya Shelters (18-Sep-2022 to 24-Sep-2022).
Saurabh was the trek leader and he was supported by Suresh, Kamal and Kuldeep. The entire trek was organized flawlessly. We were welcomed in Dehradun punctually and treated as guests for all the eight days. Saurabh showed great ownership as the trek leader and drove his team with a sense of purpose. He took care to see that each team member did his bit to ensure that we stayed on time and on course during the trek. Suresh – whom we fondly called mountain goat – was chirpy, nimble footed on tough terrain and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Kamal was a great cook – he dished out fantastic and nutritious meals at 14640 ft, not repeating a dish once over the entire trek. Kuldeep, the newbie in the team, always had a smile on his face and was eager to help and learn.
The trek as such, in my opinion, was light to moderate. The two stretches from Gangotri to Bojwasa is light. Bojwasa to Gaumukh was moderate, largely due to rough terrain. On both stretches the ascent is gradual. The stretch from Gaumukh to Tapovan is moderate owing to the terrain and steep climb. This section sees us gain 2000 Ft in one day and is the toughest part of the trek. This is a high altitude trek. It is better to work on your cardiovascular fitness before doing this. At the very least, you should be able to walk 10Km without being stressed. Those with either poor fitness or any prior history of AMS may want to consider trekking only till Gaumukh and returning back to Bojwasa. This is a runtime decision you can make on the trek.
Overall, it was a great experience for the small group of 5 that undertook this trek. We return with great experience, fond memories and a deep desire to trek the Himalayas again. We will certainly choose Himalaya shelters again. I would highly recommend them !
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