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Gomukh Tapovan Trek
During your trek to Gaumukh Tapovan, you will experience one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
There are summit views and there are ‘big’ summit views. During the Gaumukh Tapovan trek, you see more than just Mt Shivling’s best views. It is possible to see Mt Shivling from its base all the way to its summit. In case you’re unfamiliar with Mt Shivling, it is one of our country’s most beautiful mountains. The gold calendar features the mountain every year since its publication, so it’s no surprise the mountain is featured on the cover.
However, hold on. Mt Shivling is not the only thing you can see; all the Bhagirathi sisters can be seen. There are times when we feel the Bhagirathi sisters are even more spectacular than Mt Shivling because they form a massif, which dominates the landscape
Duration
6 Days
Trek Difficulty
Moderate To Difficulty
Suitable For
18 to 50 Years
Region
Uttarakhand
Trek Altitude
13, 500 Ft.
Group Size
20-25 Peoples
Overview - Gomukh Tapovan Trek Package, Uttarakhand
Gaumukh Tapovan trek is unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced. Taking you to the source of the River Ganga is an extremely spiritual and natural experience. The journey combines adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and the chance to stand at the source of a world-famous river.
Located in Gangotri, a busy pilgrimage town, Gaumukh Tapovan starts at its base. In the next couple of miles, the trail winds through the heart of Gangotri National Park. Getting to the destination is not the only goal of this trek. The experience is both inspiring and humbling, allowing you to connect with nature.
The journey takes you through dense forests, wide glaciers, and high-altitude meadows. Gaumukh, the mouth of Bhagirathi river, and Tapovan are the next stops on the trek. The Gaumukh Tapovan trek surrounds you with towering mountains at every turn. From the base to the top of Mount Shivling, you can clearly see its perfect shape at the Tapovan campsite. As a group, the Bhagirathi sisters form a grand mountain range. Sunrise on the Bhagirathi massif is one of the most memorable experiences in the world.
Yet, at the root of the Gaumukh Tapovan trek is standing at Gaumukh, a massive glacier snout from which the Bhagirathi River originates. It involves scrambling over crevasses and watching melting ice droplets fall into the muddy Bhagirathi headstream. It’s about being surrounded by nature in its rawest, most powerful, and most humbling state.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Itinerary
Quick Itinerary
- Day 1st : Deharadun / Rishikesh To Gangotri
- Day 2nd : Gangotri To Bhojbasa
- Day 3rd : Bhujvasha To Tapovan View Gomukh
- Day 4th : Tapovan To Bhujbasha
- Day 5th : Bhojbasa To Gangotri
- Day 6th : Gangotri To Dehradun / Rishikesh
Detailed Itinerary
When you arrive in Dehradun/Rishikesh, a pick-up will be arranged from the parade ground (Dehradun) or Natraj Chowk (Rishikesh). As the weather permits, you will need to spend between eight and ten hours driving to Gangotri. This trek begins in Gangotri, which is one of the Chardhams. As a sign of respect to God, people perform Karmakands (offerings). There are several attractions to see here, including Gangotri temple, Snana Ghat, Gori kund, Surya kund, and Pandu Gufa.
- Altitude – 2,140 ft – 10,060 ft Distance – Via Deharadun – 240 km / 8h (Deharadun – Mussorie – Chinyalishour – Uttarkashi – Gangotri)
- Via Rishikesh – 270 km / 9h (Rishikesh – Chamba – Chiniyalisour – Uttarkashi- Gangotri)
- Night Stay – Hotel Mandakani
You can see Chirbasa campsite below on your right side as you join the original path leading to Gumukh trail. Within a few minutes, you will get a better view of the Bhagirathi massif and notice a river stream on your left. Be aware that this path is landslide prone, so be aware of falling rocks and take safety precautions. After you pass this section quickly, you will need to cross a log bridge, and then you will be 8 hours away from Bhojbasa. It is a gradual walk from here to Gaumukh glacier, which can be seen from there. Upon arriving at the campsite, you are greeted by a view of Mount Shivling and the Bhagirathi river.
- Trek distance – 14km / 8h
- Max Altitude – 11,760 ft 12,458
- Grade – Moderate
- Stay – Tent
In the morning, we wake up early and head to Tapovan via Gaumukh. During this day, we carry packed lunches. Ascents to Gaumukh are gradual for 4km. Trolley lines are installed over the Bhagirathi river to allow us to cross it. The Bhagirathi massif can be seen up close. After reaching Gaumukh (the source of the Bhagirathi river) we relax for a while and enjoy views of the Gaumukh glacier.
After that, it is 5 kilometers of steep ascent to Tapovan. We can see the Bhagirathi river right below us. Boulders line this route, and Akash Ganga, a seasonal stream, keeps appearing, which is surrounded by boulders. Water bottles should be filled at Gaumukh. Upon reaching Tapovan, you’ll see Mt.Shivling in full glory in front of you, followed by Mt.Meru on the other side. The alpine meadow of Tapovan is located in the mountains.
- Trek distance – 10 km / 8h
- Max Altitude – 12,458 ft to 14,420 ft
- Grade – Easy to Moderate
- Stay – Tent
As you return to Gangotri, you follow the same trail you took to reach Bhojbasa camp. The descent takes far less time than the ascent since it is very gradual. You must again cross rocky terrain and glacier moraines. You will realize this now as you make your way around the boulders that ascending is harder than descending. Make sure you watch your step and move slowly. Remember the moments while retracing your steps. Take a stroll along the Bhagirathi River. Up to Bhojbasa, it will take about 5-6 hours to hike.
- Trek distance – 10 km / 6h
- Max Altitude – 14,420 ft to 11,760 ft
- Grade – Difficult to Easy
- Stay – Tent.
After breakfast, travel to Gangotri through landslide-prone areas before returning to the same campsite in pine forests. Continue walking along the path until you reach Gangotri. The valley can be seen from a variety of angles with the wintry Bhagirathi River flowing through it. We will trek to Gangotri in 4/5 hours today. During your stay in Ganotri, you will stay in a hotel.
- Distance – 14km / 8h
- Max Altitude – 11,760 ft to 10,60
- Grade – Easy
- Stay – Hotel
Your trek team will say their last good-byes after breakfast and you will have a chance to capture last memories. Leave for Deharadun/Rishikesh about 8AM. Your final destination will be reached between 2-4 p.m.
- Altiude –10,060 ft to 2,140 ft
- Distance-Via Deharadun – 240 km / 8h (Deharadun – Mussorie – Chinyalishour –
Uttarkashi – Gangotri) - Via Rishikesh – 270 km / 9h (Rishikesh – Chamba – Chiniyalisour – Uttarkashi-
Gangotri)
What Should I Pack for the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
- Backpack: It is imperative to have a backpack that is both comfortable and durable in order to transport all of the necessary provisions and equipment for the trek. Look for a backpack with adequate support, padding, and ventilation.
- A pair of trekking shoes that are suitable for the high altitudes and rugged terrain is indispensable. Search for footwear that is capable of withstanding rough terrain, has waterproofing, and provides adequate ankle support.
- It's important to bring rain gear like a waterproof jacket and pants in case it rains in the Himalayas because the weather can change quickly.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: It is crucial to carry sunscreen with a high SPF and sunglasses to safeguard the skin and eyes from the harsh UV rays, as the sun can be intense at high altitudes.
- Water bottles: It is crucial to maintain hydration while trekking at high altitudes. It is recommended to carry a minimum of two water bottles and a water purification system, such as a water filter or tablets.
- Snacks: It is crucial to bring high-energy snacks, such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits, for fast energy boosts, as trekking at high altitudes can be physically taxing.
- First aid kit: It is essential to have a first aid kit that is adequately stocked with medicines, bandages, antiseptics, and pain relievers in the event of an injury or illness during the expedition.
- Headlamp or torch: To navigate in the dark, you need carry a headlamp or torch.
- Toiletries for personal use: Toiletries for personal hygiene, including toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand sanitizer, and damp wipes, should be transported.
Documents Required for the Gomukh Tapovan Trek
- Photo ID Proof (Aadhar Card/Passport and Visa for Foreign Nationals)
- Medical Fitness Certificate
- Trek Insurence
Included / Exclude Gomukh Tapovan Trek
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Camping charges
- Leaders & Guides
- Trekking Gears
- Trekking Equipment
- Safety Equipment
- Any kind of insurance.
- GST
- Entrance fees and Guide charges.
Things you can do on the Gomukh Tapovan Trek
- Govind Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife. You might see Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, and birds.
- Take time to visit Osla, a village with a unique culture and ancient Duryodhana Temple. Get to know the local customs and traditions by engaging with the locals.
- Explore high-altitude terrain as you test your endurance. A challenging, yet rewarding experience awaits you at Bali Pass.
- In Osla, you can visit the ancient Duryodhana Temple. An Indian epic, Mahabharata, is the inspiration for the Kaurava prince temple.
- During your trek, you can visit one of the pilgrimage sites of the Char Dham, the Yamunotri Temple. In addition to offering spiritual solace, this shrine is located near the endpoint of the trek.
How to Reach Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
By Air
Nearest Airport - Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun , is located 24 km away from the city. And daily flight from Delhi to Dehradun.
By Train
Train No-12017 for Dehradun Shatabdi Express. Arrival: 12:50pm; departure: 6:45am
Jan Shatabdi Express, train no. 12055, from Dehradun to New Delhi. Three:20 pm departure; nine:10 pm arrival
Delhi to Dehradun via Hazrat Nizamuddin station.
It departed at 11:45 pm and arrived at 5:40 am (Nandadevi Express - Train no. 12401).
It is a direct train from Delhi to Dehradun that leaves at 9:10 pm and arrives at 4:45 am. This train has the number 12687.
19019 is the train number for the Dehradun Express. Arrival at 5:35pm; departure at 5:40am
By Road
The regular bus service between Delhi and Dehradun departs from Delhi's (ISBT Kashmere Gate). If you are going to take a bus from (ISBT Kashmere Gate), we suggest you take only government buses. It is not trustworthy to take private buses outside of ISBT. In most cases, buses drop you at Dehradun ISBT. You will need to travel to the Dehradun Station via Ola/Uber Cab, Vikram, Tata Sumo, or similar vehicles at 6:00am.
Best Time / Season To Gomukh Tapovan Trek
In the summer and autumn, the Bali Pass Trek is best undertaken before or after the monsoon. During these periods, there is favorable weather and clear views of the stunning landscape.
Bali Pass Trek is best enjoyed between May and June (pre-monsoon) and September and October (post-monsoon). The weather is best during these periods, as well as the scenery, and it is an unforgettable experience to trek during these periods.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Temperature
FAQ's Gomukh Tapovan Trek
The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is a popular trekking route in the Indian Himalayas, leading to the source of the Ganges River at Gomukh and further to the stunning meadows of Tapovan, situated at the base of the majestic Shivling peak.
The trek is considered moderate to challenging. It involves steep ascents, rocky paths, and high altitude, making it suitable for trekkers with some prior experience. Good physical fitness is recommended.
The maximum altitude of the Gomukh Tapovan Trek is approximately 4,600 meters (15,748 feet) at Tapovan, which is the highest point of the trek.
Accommodation during the trek is usually in tents or in basic guesthouses along the route. Trekkers may need to carry their own camping equipment or book with an organized trekking company.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Images
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