Gaumukh Tapovan
Alt: 12,530 ft | 7N8D
Know the Destination
A Journey to the Heart of the Himalayas.
The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is an unforgettable adventure that combines spiritual significance and natural splendor. Starting at Gaumukh, the revered source of the Bhagirathi River, the trail leads you through the sacred landscapes of Gangotri. Along the way, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring Mt. Shivling, celebrated as one of India’s most picturesque peaks, rising majestically from base to summit. Adding to the spectacle are the Bhagirathi Sisters, whose towering massif commands the horizon with unmatched grandeur. This trek is a perfect blend of Himalayan beauty and spiritual tranquility, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Gangotri
Distance – approx 242 km, Hours – 10-12hrs, Altitude: 10,050 ft.
Your journey begins with a scenic 10-12 hour drive from Dehradun to Gangotri, situated at an altitude of 10,050 ft. Gangotri is renowned as the source of the River Ganga, known as the Bhagirathi in this region. According to mythology, King Bhagirath prayed to Lord Shiva for the salvation of his 60,000 sons, and Shiva requested Goddess Ganga to descend to purify their souls. This divine tale underscores the spiritual importance of the river. Spend the night in Gangotri, preparing for the trek that begins the next morning.
Day 2: Gangotri to Chirbasa
Distance – 10km drive , Hours – 6hours, Altitude – 11,630 ft
The trek commences early in the morning with a 10 km trail to Chirbasa, taking approximately 6 hours. The path winds through a forest check post near Gangotri, with the Bhagirathi River flowing to your right. Along the trail, you’ll encounter cascading streams and the majestic Sudarshan Parbat in the distance. After crossing boulders and trekking through a forest of blue pine and silver birch, you’ll arrive at Chirbasa, a serene campsite surrounded by Chir trees. The views of Bhagirathi peaks and glimpses of the Gaumukh glacier set the perfect backdrop for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa
Distance – 5 km, Hours – 3 hrs, Altitude – 12,415 ft
The 5 km trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa takes about 3 hours. The valley opens up, offering breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks and the Bhagirathi massif. The trail includes manageable landslide-prone sections and ridge crossings, with gradual ascents and level walks. Upon reaching Bhojbasa, the widest point in the valley, you’ll be greeted with the first clear view of Mt. Shivling.
Day 4: Bhojbasa to Tapovan via Gaumukh
Distance- 6 km, Hours- 9 hrs, Altitude- 14,203 ft.
Begin early for the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek. After a 20-minute hike from Bhojbasa, you’ll cross the Bhagirathi River using a Tyrolean traverse or a trolley set up by forest officials. The trek continues on a rocky path toward Gaumukh, the mouth of the glacier, before a steep ascent along Akash Ganga. Crossing streams and loose gravel, the climb to Tapovan takes around 9 hours. Tapovan is a high-altitude alpine meadow offering astonishing views of Mt. Shivling, Meru, Sumeru, and the Bhagirathi peaks. This serene spot, surrounded by majestic peaks, has long been a haven for sages and trekkers alike.
Day 5: Tapovan to Bhojbasa
Distance – 6 km, Hours – 4/5 hours, Altitude- 12,415 ft.
Retrace your steps from Tapovan to Bhojbasa, covering 6 km in about 5 hours. The descent is relatively easier and offers another chance to take in the stunning mountain vistas. Camp overnight at Bhojbasa beside the tranquil Bhagirathi River.
Day 6: Bhojbasa to Gangotri
Distance – 14 km, Hours – 8hrs, Altitude- 10,050 ft.
The trek back to Gangotri follows the same route, covering 14 km in approximately 8 hours. The descent is swift, taking you past Chirbasa and through familiar forest trails. Enjoy the final views of the Bhagirathi peaks and Mt. Shivling as you make your way back to the Gangotri bus stand.
Day 7: Gangotri to Dehradun
Distance – approx 242 km, Hours – 8-9hrs.
Conclude your adventure with a scenic 8-hour drive from Gangotri to Dehradun, covering 242 km. You’ll arrive in Dehradun by evening, between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
Day 8: Buffer Day
A buffer day is reserved for weather-related delays or unforeseen circumstances during the trek. If utilized, an additional cost of Rs. 2,500 per day (+5% GST) will be collected by the trek leader.