Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
- Gangotri to Gangotri
- Dehradun to Dehradun
Rs.13,000
(Gangotri to Gangotri)
Service Tax @ 5% (GST)
Gaumukh Trek – The Holy River Ganges is the most sacred river in the Hindu religion and its source at Gaumukh at the Gangotri glacier. The glacier follows a N. Westerly route located below Chaukhamba Mountain, the highest peak of the Group. This is the only Ganga valley from where one can see Bhagirathi peak – I, II, III, Shivling Peak and Matri Peak, Raktvan. , all together.
Rs.15,000
(Dehradun to Dehradun)
Service Tax @ 5% (GST)
Gaumukh Trek – The Holy River Ganges is the most sacred river in the Hindu religion and its source at Gaumukh at the Gangotri glacier. The glacier follows a N. Westerly route located below Chaukhamba Mountain, the highest peak of the Group. This is the only Ganga valley from where one can see Bhagirathi peak – I, II, III, Shivling Peak and Matri Peak, Raktvan. , all together.
Brief Description
- Region :- Uttarakhand
- Duration :- 8 Days
- Grade :- Moderate To Difficult
- Max Altitude :- 14,600 Ft.
- Approx Trekking Km :- 46 Kms.
An eight day itinerary interspersing myth, spirituality, and sensational adventure, the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek takes you around the Gangotri glacier to the site traditionally believed to be mouth of the holy river Ganga.
The Gangotri glacial expanse is nearly 24 km long and 6 to 8 km wide, beginning from Gaumukh and extending as far as the Chaukhamba massif around Badrinath. Courtesy of celebrated mountaineers Shipton and Tilman, we have a trek route traversing the entire stretch of this storied land. After feasting our senses in the fleeting glacial hues and the immense backdrop of Mount Shivling, present in its entirety from the base to the serrated peak, we descend through the meadows of Tapovan back to Gangotri. The trek is verily a raging visual thrillfest with rising mountain behemoths such as the Bhagirathi twin peaks, and Mount Meru, besides the ever present Shivling.
The realization of magnificence on watching the river that gave birth and nourished an entire civilization emerge fitfully out of the Gaumukh snout to flow a 2,525 odd kilometers before meeting with the ocean, comes at a riveting spiritual moment. Trickling from Gangotri glacier through Gaumukh, meaning “cow’s mouth”, the river has a different name- Bhagirathi, and becomes the Ganga, the life vein of the northern plains of India only after flowing in with another headstream, Alakananda at Devaprayag- the key confluence point of Ganga before it pours into the plains. This illustrious geography has emerged from myths that imagine the river as intensely sacred. She was brought to earth from her celestial heights to renew the life of men by the rigorous dedication of a mortal, Bhagirath who gives the channel its name- Bhagirathi, and the river’s devastating energy was sustained by none other than Shiva himself.
The trek, in great parts veers beyond the tree line and passes through larger than life mountainscapes. We camp at rugged heights from where the snow transfused peaks are a stone’s throw away. Be it the surreal sight of the Bhagirathi peaks glistening in the moonlight, the mind numbing sight of the Shivling from Tapovan campsite, rising from the base to its zenith right before you, or a glimpse of the formidable Mount Meru, the bravura of visual ecstasies never seems to run out on this journey.
This trek is classified moderate-difficult for all the right reasons. You must come braced for an arduous hike along boulder ridden paths and ruthless climate. The holy men who are found living permanently in the meadows of Tapovan for sadhana under the gaze of Shivling can be the ones to draw your inspiration from!
Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri (3120m) 245km (11/12 hrs.)
Get all set to begin the journey from Dehradun at morning 6. The day will be longer as you will cover 241km to Gangotri. It will be a wonderful 8 hours ride along the mighty mountains.
Located at only 35kms from Dehradun, the first major attraction will be Mussorie, the famous hill station. The Hill station offers a majestic sight of Shivalik Ranges. After a break for lunch and a bit of sight-seeing through Dhanulti, Chamba, you will arrive at the land of Gods, Uttarkashi.
Uttarkashi lies on the banks of river Bhagirathi. You will see all the temples and religious people around, making you believe that you truly are in the land of God. The river Bhagirath takes you to the scenic Harshil village. Harshil is known for apple orchards everywhere giving a retreat to your eyes. Harshil is the best place to enjoy the serene evening amidst mountains.
Even after a long ride to Gangotri, you would wish it shouldn’t end. Gangotri is on the banks of river Bhagirathi, pervaded by pilgrims. You can roam in the local market, interact will local people and share amazing pictures with your friends, because of the good network availability. At night have a great homemade dinner and rest in the guest house.
Day 2: Acclimatization day at Gangotri (3100m)
Good morning in the holy land of Gangotri!
Have breakfast and enjoy the entire day just being alive in the religious vibes. Now that you are at 10171 ft height, today is the day for acclimatization. Acclimatization is like a health supplement to your body to get used to the environmental and low temperatures. While doing that, you can take advantage of being in Gangotri, one of the four Char Dhams. The Gangotri temple is the biggest temple which was built in the 18th century. Apart from that, you can visit the BhagirathShila, a holy rock where King Bhagirath worshipped Lord Shiva and PandavaGufa where Pandavas were rested.
You will see many foreigners meditating and roaming around. Spend the night in the guest house and get ready for the upcoming trek.
Day 3: Gangotri to Chirbassa (3560m) (4/5 hrs.) 9km.
Have full breakfast and take steps ahead to embark the trek through the mountains. You will be walking through the pine forests alongside the astounding Bhagirathi river. There will be gradual ascents but it will be easy 4-5 hours trek. Throughout the route, beautiful Sudarshan Parbat (21,345ft) will accompany you. You will also come across some waterfalls and streams at which you refill your water bottles. The entire walk will be in the Gangotri National Park.
Towards the end of the trek you will be welcomed by boulders of the Sudarshan peak, just cross them and you will reach the campsite.
This will be the most scenic campsite, with the Bhagirathi river gushing on the right, lying in between the mountains under the pine trees. Campsite offers the first views of the Bhagirathi Sister peaks, Bhagirathi I, II and III ( 6856 m, 6512 m, & 6454 m respectively) sharing space with Manda Peak, Bhrigu Parbat etc.
Revive yourself by having lunch. Enjoy the blissful evening by the side of the Bhagirathi river, you can also take acclimatization walk to explore the area. To make the day more adventurous you will be spending the night in the tents. Of course, besides the flowing river, between the mountain peaks, under the pine trees…!!!
Day 4: Chirbassa to Bhojwasa (3790m) (2/3 hrs.) 5km.
Wake up with the stunning fluorescent views of sun rays on the mountain peaks, get refreshed to trudge again. This will be the easiest 2-3 hours trek having gradual ascent. The trail widens up now with closer views of the Bhagirathi peaks. You will across some landslide sections easier to walk upon. After the trek, you will find a plain terrain where tents will be laid for you, that is Bhojwassa.
The Bhojwasa came from Bhopatra trees or the Birch trees, which are abundant there. This is the widest part in the valley serving you the first view of Mount Shivling. You will find ashram, police post and rest house, also some igloo-like houses. You can opt for staying in those houses but that requires permissions.
Chill around noon after having lunch at the campsite. You can capture the splendid camping area, as you walk into the Gaumukh, the end of the Gangotri glacier. Spend the cozy cold night in the tents.
Day 5: Bhojwasa (3790m) to Khada Pathar via Gaumukh (4100m) & Tapovan (4450m) (7/8 hrs.) 9km.
The trek to Gomukh is fairly easy. Gomukh is the end of the Gangotri glacier and hence the source of the divine Ganges river. Gomukh basically means cows mouth, it is believed the snout looked like cows mouth in the past. Most religious people consider it as a blessing to visit the Ganges. Even if you are not religious you will be astonished to see how huge the snout is and how small you are in front of it.
The trail from here gets steeper and filled with rock boulders. The rock moraines on the glacier make the climb difficult, 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 is rocky terrain, once you cross it you will be pleased to be in the best-known meadows with a closer view of the magnificent Mt. Shivling.
Tapovan is famous for the Sadhus who come here for meditation. It is also the base camp for the expeditions going to Mt. Shivling. It offers the direct, bigger sight of Mt. Shivling which is considered one of the most sacred and beautiful mountains. Do not miss the sight of Mt. Meru and Bhagirathi peaks.
After gruelling trek, Tapovan serves as perfect place for solitude. Here you will find mountain goats roaming around, just as you are. End your strained yet memorable day by resting peacefully in tents
Day 6: Tapovan (4450m) to Chirbassa (3560m) (6/7 hrs.)
Rise early to cherish the few last moments in front of legendary mountains who are shining in the bright sun rays. Mt. Shivling looks prettier as never before, passing its beauty to the adjacent peaks. Together they all make a spectacular sight. It is then time to take these memories back after having breakfast. Carry packed lunch and enough water as you did earlier because there are no water sources.
Yes, again you have to cross the rocky terrain and moraines of the glacier. Descending is difficult than ascending they say, you will realize this now as you make way around the boulders. Watch your steps and move gradually. Try to relive the moments while you retrace the steps.
After steep descend to Gomukh, walk down the terrain alongside the Bhagirathi river. It will be a 6-7 hours trek till Chirbassa. Then you will be back to the same pine forests. Not to your surprise, you will be camping near the river, in between the mountains, under the pine trees…!!
Day 7: Chirbasa (3560m) to Gangotri (3100m)
Wake up to realize that this will be the last day of the trek. Trek for around 4-5 hours covering 9km to Gangotri. You will enter again in the Gangotri National Park. You can catch upstreams and waterfalls to refills water bottles. Say goodbye to the Bhagirathi and other mountain peaks as their sight now disappears.
Have a hot lunch and dinner in the guest house. Pack to return to Dehradun and thereby to your lovely homes.
Day 8: Depart for Dehradun 245km (11/12 hrs.)
Have a final cup of morning tea in the mighty land of Gangotri. Say a final goodbye to your fellow trekkers, exchange numbers, and lots of memories. Take a wonderful group picture and get into the cab that will ride you back to Dehradun. This will an 8 hours ride, between the mountains, valleys, and Bhagirathi river. The river which guided us throughout the trek.
You will reach Dehradun by 5 PM, from here you can lead your return journey as you have planned. Make sure to take back loads of adventure-filled memories and take a pledge to come back to the mountains.
By Air:-
Jolly Grant Airport is the airport serving Dehradun, located about 25 km from the city. There is a daily flight from Delhi to Dehradun
By Train:-
Take the overnight train to Dehradun from Delhi
Nandadevi Express – Train no: 12205 (Departure 11:50pm; Arrival – 5:40am)
Dehradun Express – Train no: 12687 (Departure – 9:10pm; Arrival – 5:00am)
By Bus:-
There is a regular bus service from Delhi to Dehradun, from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate.
We would suggest you take only government buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Private buses ply from outside ISBT and they are not trustworthiness.
Usually, buses drop you at Dehradun ISBT. From there you have to come to Dehradun Railway Station
• TTH’s Tata Sumo or similar vehicles will pick-up you from Dehradun Railway Station at 6:00 am.
• Pick-up is included in the cost of the trek.
• You will reach Gangotri by 5:00 pm.
Basics Gears
• Backpack & Rain Cover (40-60 Litres)
• Trekking Shoes
• Trekking Pole
• LED Torch
• One Water Bottle (one litre)
• Basic Medications (or prescribed if any)
Clothes
• Trekking Jacket
• Three (Five in winter) Warm Layers
• Two trek pants (one Wear and one carry)
• Two collared t-shirts
• Thermals
Accessories
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreeen Lotion (SPF 50/70)
• Lip Balm (SPF 30)
• Sun cap
• Synthetic hand gloves
• Two pair of Socks
• Raincoat/Ponchos
Others
• Daypack (20 litres), if you opt to offload your backpack
• Toiletries
• Cutlery
• Plastic cover (for wet clothes)
Mandatory Documents
Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Passport, Aadhaar Card, Driving license or voters ID)
Cancellation requests are available to taken over the phone.
In case you wish to cancel your trek please e-mail us at :
1- Cancellations up to 21 days prior to departure date – 70% refund
2- Between 21 days to 14 days prior to departure – 50% refund
3- Between 14 days to 10 days prior to departure- 30% refund
4- Less than 10 days of departure – No refund or you can transfer your trek (same batch date & same trek) to your dear one.
Note:-
a) Change of trek batch date is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch.
b) In case of transferring a trek to your dear one, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements lay down by Trekkaro.
c) Trek The Adventures holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice.
Refund Policy:
The applicable refund amount will be processed within the 10 working days.
We are the best to provide all the services we have. In fact, our wish to excel goes beyond the point where your boots hit the trail – it begins the moment that you get in contact with us, and it never ends. We have greatly appreciate the hikkers who connect with us. “Trek The Adventures” Blessed Always best for you.
Your Expectations
• Safety
Of course, this is a non-negotiable. Safety is embedded in our business and it’s something that we take very seriously in all our treks. It’s the primary reason we’re very popular in just a year.
• Personalized Service, Care, and Attention to Detail
For some organizations, this is, surprisingly, negotiable. But it isn’t for us. After safety, if we can do one thing right, every time, it’s to ensure that we sweat the small things.
• The Best Guides
If you are already trekking with us, then you’d be forgiven for thinking our guides are superhuman. It doesn’t mean feat to entertain, cook, guide and facilitate, but for our guides, they handle it with grace and all the while the attention is on you.
• The Best Itineraries
It takes a lot of refinement to make a perfect trek, from dawn to dusk there are a LOT of moving part and potential for things to go awry. From last one year, we’ve balanced on the tight rope of offering the right amount of activity, flexibility and trek time. Whilst utilizing the best lodgings in the most unique places.
• Value
We’re not in the business of making money and provide you nothing. Our treks aren’t expensive, they represent excellent value for money and for those seeking to maximize their time, there is no better way.
Our Expectations
It may come as a surprise, but the reality is that it is a two-way street (or trail), you are ultimately responsible for the nature of the experience that you have with us. And not only that, but you also have an influence on the experience of others’ in your small group.
• Attitude
This is your vacation, and the attitude that you bring will set the tone for your experience. We get that at times it’s difficult (we plan to challenge you) and we get that at times it’s a bit uncomfortable (this is not a cruise trip). All we ask you to keep an open mind, a big smile on your face and readiness for the unexpected.
• Physical preparedness
Our treks are designed for everyday people. You definitely don’t have to be an athlete, but to be fair for yourself and your group members, you do need to be ready. Worried about it? Do not stress it, our team is 100% dedicated to helping you pick the right trek, bring the right gear and be physically and mentally prepared.
• Know who’s in charge
As we’ve mentioned, you rightly expect when you join our trek to be in good, safe hands. For us to ensure the entire group’s safety, we suppose you, as our guest, to listen to your lead guide. They are the expert when it comes to decisions made on the trek.
SHORT ITINERARY
- Day 1 :Dehradun to Gangotri (3120m) 245km (11/12 hrs.)
- Day 2 : Acclimatization day at Gangotri (3100m)
- Day 3 : Gangotri to Chirbassa (3560m) (4/5 hrs.) 9km.
- Day 4 : Chirbassa to Bhojwasa (3790m) (2/3 hrs.) 5km.
- Day 5 : Bhojwasa (3790m) to Khada Pathar via Gaumukh (4100m) & Tapovan (4450m) (7/8 hrs.) 9km.
- Day 6 : Tapovan (4450m) to Chirbassa (3560m) (6/7 hrs.)
- Day 7 : Chirbasa (3560m) to Gangotri (3100m)
- Day 8 : Depart for Dehradun 245km (11/12 hrs.)
ATM POINT AND MOBILE CONNECTIVITY
ATM POINT : Withdraw money before your journey. Uttarkashi is the last point where you will find ATM.
(If you want to withdraw money then do it in Dehradun.)
Mobile Connectivity: There will be no networks during the trek, in Uttarkashi, your device will receive the networks and at Gangotri only Idea and BSNL Airtel, signals are there but you cannot rely on the connectivity because the signal strength is not good. So make sure you finish all your important work and calls before starting the trek.
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