Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Hosted by Wandering Souls
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All About It
- Difficulty - Moderate Hard
- For 14+ years
Gaumukh Tapovan is picturesque trek located in Uttarkashi. It is one of the most rewarding and popular treks for trekking enthusiasts. These trek showcases the beauty of Garhwal Himalayas and few other remarkable peaks like Mt. Shivling, Mt. Bhagirathi and Mt. Bhrigupanth.
Gaumukh is the pout or terminus of the pristine Gangotri Glacier and is also the source of the Bhagirathi river. This snow-capped spot is located at a height of around 13,200 ft and is also known to be a haven for the pilgrims as it is the source of Ganga.
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.
Highlights
- Gaumukh Glacier – I have not stood at the snout of such a gigantic glacier in my life. The Gaumukh glacier snout must be as high as a ten-storey building. Big chunks of ice, as big as cars, continuously fall with thunderous sounds from the mouth of the glacier.
- Towering Mountains – 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.
- Beautiful Mt. Shivling – There are summit views and there are ‘big’ summit views. On the Gaumukh Tapovan trek, you don’t just see the best views of Mt Shivling. You see Mt Shivling right from the base to it’s summit. And if you don’t know about Mt Shivling, it’s one of the most beautiful looking mountains in our country.
- The night view of Mt Shivling and Bhagirathi sisters – If you are lucky to be there on a cloudless night, for heaven’s sake don’t be inside your tent! Mt Shivling and the Bhagirathi sisters on a cloudless night, will give you goosebumps. Right there, from the inky darkness of your camp, you can see the snow whites of these mountains glistening in the night — every gully, crag and ridge visible.
Day 1 - Dehradun to Gangotri
Private Vehicle
Lodge
Dinner
We embark on your journey and depart Dehradun at 6 a.m. As you traverse 241 kilometres to Gangotri, you will encounter an unforgettable eight-hour trip through the awe-inspiring mountains. Your first major attraction will be the well-known hill station of Mussorie, just 35 kilometres from Dehradun, where you can catch a glimpse of the Shivalik Ranges. After stopping for lunch and some sightseeing in Dhanulti and Chamba, you will arrive in Uttarkashi, also known as the Land of the Gods, situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. The temples and holy individuals will leave you with no doubt that you are indeed in a divine place. The Bhagirath River leads to the picturesque village of Harshil, famous for its apple orchards that provide a pleasant contrast to the city. Harshil is the ideal place to spend a peaceful evening amid the mountains.
Day 2 - Gangotri (10171 ft) to Bhojwasa, 14km
Travel Not Applicable
Tents
All Meals
Awaken to stunning neon vistas of sunbeams on mountaintops, and you'll be ready to hit the trails again. The next hike will be brief, lasting approximately 2-3 hours with a slow incline.
The route will broaden, offering better views of the Bhagirathi peaks. Some sections of the path affected by landslides will be more manageable than others. Upon completion of the trek, you will reach Bhojwassa, a level area where you will be lodged in tents.
The region is teeming with Bhopatra trees, commonly known as birch trees, which were used to construct Bhojwasa. This is the widest section of the valley, offering the best vantage point for viewing Mount Shivling. There are numerous igloo-style dwellings, as well as an ashram, a police station, and a rest house. Following lunch, unwind at the campsite in the afternoon and spend a chilly night in the tents.
Day 3 - Bhojwasa (12435 ft) to Khada Pathar via Gaumukh (13452 ft) & Tapovan (14600 ft)
Travel Not Applicable
Tents
All Meals
Prepare for the most challenging and longest trek of the journey by eating well, packing snacks, filling water bottles, and carrying energy bars. There are no water sources along the way.
The trail becomes steeper and rockier from this point on, with rock moraines on the glacier adding to the difficulty of the ascent, although technical equipment is unnecessary. A trekking pole can be used to make the climb easier.
The final ascent to Tapovan is rocky, but once you arrive, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Mt. Shivling and the famous meadows, which are frequented by Sadhus from around the world. Tapovan also serves as the base camp for Mt. Shivling expeditions and provides a better view of the holy peak, as well as Mt. Meru and Bhagirathi peaks.
Mountain goats can be spotted wandering around the area, making it an ideal place to relax after a long and memorable day. Retire to your tent for the night.
Day 4 - Tapovan (14600 ft) –Chirbassa(11680 ft)
Travel Not Applicable
Tents
All Meals
After witnessing the beautiful sunrise against the historical mountains, particularly Mt. Shivling, it's time to relive those moments during breakfast. Pack a meal and sufficient water, as there are no water sources en route.
You'll have to navigate the glacier's rugged terrain and moraines once again. Descending is more challenging than ascending, so be cautious and take it slow. As you retrace your steps, try to relive the experience.
After a 6-7 hour walk along the Bhagirathi River, you'll arrive at Chirbassa, where you'll set up camp by a river, between mountains, and under pine trees, as before.
Day 5 - Chirbasa (11680 ft) to Gangotri / Uttarkashi (10171 ft)
Travel Not Applicable
Lodge
All Meals
As you wake up, remember that this is the final day of your adventure. The trek back to Gangotri is around 9 kilometers and takes about 4-5 hours. You can refill your water bottles at streams and waterfalls along the way.
Bid farewell to the beautiful sight of the Bhagirathi and other mountain peaks. A hot meal and dinner will be served at the guest house.
Day 6 - Depart for Dehradun
Private Vehicle
Stay Not Included
Breakfast
Enjoy a final cup of tea in the majestic land of Gangotri, bid farewell to your companions, and take a group photo before boarding the cab for the eight-hour trip back to Dehradun.
The journey will take you through mountains, valleys, and along the Bhagirathi River.
You will arrive in Dehradun by 5 p.m. and begin your return journey. Take with you many exciting memories of your adventure and pledge to return to the mountains one day
Meet your host
Wandering Souls
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We’re a team of travellers and dreamers who know how to inspire the memories you’ll have for the rest of your life. Our team consists of people from various backgrounds such as travel & adventure experts, event managers & ex-MNC employees. We have been in the travel industry for 5+ years and have organised 1000+ trips and events. We create travel experiences that exceed clients' expectations. Come discover what you have been missing!
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Reviews
Rutika Joshi
Your search for amazing adventures ends here. The most reliable and trustworthy group I have been with. The coordinators are excellent. The arrangements are great and you'll have a best experience in every events. I joined their first event back in 2018 and enjoyed each events since then :) Kudos team! you're doing fab job.
Shiavngi Singh
It was my first trekking experience and I am glad I planned it with the best. Overall experience was very great. The weather, the people, the view everything at its best. Wandering souls made my first trekking experience memorable. Looking forward to planning more trips with them.
Shilpa Nair
Trekking with wandering souls was a safe and good experience. The team leads were genuinely caring and made sure of everyone's safety despite having a large group.The trek was well designed and it also had an introduction session which served as an icebreaker and made the batch more friendly towards eachother. The crowd was decent and blending, you can meet and make new friends. It was my first time trekking with a group and I would join them soon 💪🏽👍🏽
Amisha jain
went on garbett plateau trek on them good experience, everything nicely organised,
Amisha jain
went on garbett plateau trek on them good experience, everything nicely organised,
Shilpa Nair
Trekking with wandering souls was a safe and good experience. The team leads were genuinely caring and made sure of everyone's safety despite having a large group.The trek was well designed and it also had an introduction session which served as an icebreaker and made the batch more friendly towards eachother. The crowd was decent and blending, you can meet and make new friends. It was my first time trekking with a group and I would join them soon 💪🏽👍🏽
Inclusions
- Accommodation: For the duration of your trek, you will be staying in hotels and camps from day one to day five.
- Meals: From the first dinner to the sixth day breakfast, all meals are included. We offer healthy, nutritious and vegetarian food on all days of the trek.
- Transportation: We will provide round-trip transportation from Dehradun to Dehradun if opted for the same
- Camping fees: Both trekking permits and woodland camping fees are included in the price
- All of the camps will provide you with high-quality tents and sleeping bags for your trek. We have high-altitude sleeping bags that can withstand temperatures as low as -10°C. Ropes, microspikes, and gaiters are all available.
Exclusions
- Any personal expenses, such as the transport of personal belongings during the trek.
- Emergency Costs: Any expense arises as a result of any kind of emergency.
- Bottled Water: Throughout the trek, bottled water will not be given.
- Personal Insurance.
- Meals during transit. (Dehradun to Gangotri & Gangotri to Dehradun)
- Charges of mules/porters/carrying extra luggage
PICKUP LOCATIONS
Dehradun Rly Stn
Policy and more
- Any personal expenses, such as the transport of personal belongings during the trek.
- Emergency Costs: Any expense arises as a result of any kind of emergency.
- Bottled Water: Throughout the trek, bottled water will not be given.
- Personal Insurance.
- Meals during transit. (Dehradun to Gangotri & Gangotri to Dehradun)
- Charges of mules/porters/carrying extra luggage
Frequently Asked Questionss
Q: What is the accommodation like during the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: Accommodation during the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is usually in tents or guest houses, with basic amenities like sleeping bags, blankets, and shared toilets.
Q: What is the best time to do Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: The best time to do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is from April to June and September to November.
Q: The best time to do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is from April to June and September to November.
A: From mid-April to the end of June, the summer season begins, but the weather in the Himalayas is often unpredictable during this time. There are frequent chances of rain or snowfall, which can cause temperatures to be quite unstable throughout the trek. Although the daytime temperatures at Bhojbasa and beyond are generally pleasant, around 15°C, the nighttime temperatures can drop to near 0°C, making the campsites quite chilly.
Q: How difficult is Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is considered a moderate to difficult trek, with steep ascents and descents, and rocky terrain.
Q: What is the maximum altitude of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: The maximum altitude of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is approximately 4,463 meters (14,640 feet) at Tapovan.
Q: Do I need to have prior trekking experience to do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is recommended to have some level of fitness and stamina as the trek involves long hours of walking on steep terrain.
Q: How fit do you need to be to do Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: A Himalayan trek like Gaumukh Tapovan requires a good fitness level. The trek has long climbs and steep descents daily. To meet the requirements, you can either jog/run for 4 kilometers within 35-40 minutes or walk for 8 kilometers on slightly inclined terrain with 3-4 short breaks. Additionally, you should be able to hold your breath for 25-30 seconds.
Q: Will I get Mobile coverage during the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: You’ll find a good network until Gangotri. Airtel, BSNL, and Jio are the mobile phone connections you will most likely get. However, once you leave Gangotri, the network is spotty or non-existent.
Q: How will you contact me once I register?
A: We will be mailing you the details once you register and creating a whatsapp group a week before the trek
Q: Will there be charging points available during the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: Gangotri is the last point with electricity.
Q: Can I keep extra luggage at the base camp?
A: Yes, you can leave your excess luggage behind. You can collect it once you are back at the base camp.
Q: What will be the group size for Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: The group size for the trek would be between 6-15 trekkers
Q: The group size for the trek would be between 6-15 trekkers
A: We encourage you to carry your backpack yourself. If you still wish to offload your backpack, you can give it to the porter. The charges for the same is to be paid in advance
Q: Are there any age restrictions for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
A: There is no strict age restriction for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, but it is recommended for individuals above the age of 14 years who are physically fit and have prior trekking experience
Q: Can I come alone?
A: Yes, many of our participants are solo travellers.
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