Duration: 8D/7N
Maximum altitude: 14222 ft.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trek distance: 46 Km
Best time: May end to June, September to October
Start Point/End Point: Gangotri
Embark on the Gaumukh Tapovan trek with Himalayan Buff, a journey renowned for its breathtaking views of the Gangotri Glacier and the majestic peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas. This iconic trek unfolds over several days, starting from Gangotri and ascending through diverse landscapes of forests and barren Arctic Tundra-like terrain to reach the sacred source of the Ganges at Gaumukh. Trek onward to Tapovan, situated at 4,335 meters altitude, where panoramic vistas of the Bhagirathi peaks await, offering trekkers a blend of natural beauty and spiritual exploration. Ideal for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, this trek promises an unforgettable experience amidst pristine Himalayan landscapes.
Trek Itinerary:
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri Drive
Embark on a scenic 7-8 hour drive covering 242 kilometers from Dehradun to Gangnani via Uttarkashi, setting the stage for your adventure into the Garhwal Himalayas.
Day 2: Gangotri to Chirbasa Trek
Begin your trek from Gangotri (3,048 m) to Chirbasa (3,600 m), a 6-kilometer journey taking approximately 6 hours. Experience the gradual ascent amidst stunning mountain views and serene landscapes.
Day 3: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa Trek
Trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (3,800 m), covering 5 kilometers in 3-4 hours. Traverse through dense forests and the stark, Arctic Tundra-like terrain, immersing yourself in the rugged beauty of the Himalayas.
Day 4: Bhojbasa to Gaumukh to Tapovan
Embark on a challenging 9-kilometer trek from Bhojbasa to Gaumukh (3,900 m) and onward to Tapovan (4,335 m), taking approximately 7 hours. Enjoy panoramic views of the Bhagirathi peaks and visit Gaumukh, the sacred source of the Ganges.
Day 5: Tapovan to Bhojbasa Return
Descend from Tapovan to Bhojbasa, a 7-kilometer trek lasting 5-6 hours. Witness the sunrise over the majestic peaks and reflect on the spiritual and natural wonders encountered on your journey.
Day 6: Bhojbasa to Gangotri Trek
Trek back from Bhojbasa to Gangotri, covering 14 kilometers in 5-6 hours. Retrace your steps through the serene Himalayan landscapes, cherishing the memories of your trekking expedition.
Day 7: Gangotri to Dehradun Drive
Conclude your adventure with a 9-hour drive covering 245 kilometers from Gangotri to Dehradun. Reflect on your unforgettable Gaumukh Tapovan trek experience with Himalayan Buff, filled with stunning vistas and enriching moments in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Inclusions:
- Transport from Dehradun to Dehradun
- Trained and experienced mountain staff (Trek Leaders, guides, cooks, etc.)
- Camping equipments (High Altitude Tents, sleeping bag, thin liner, zero degree mattress)
- Trekking equipments (Microspikes, Gaiters)
- Safety equipment ( Basic first aid medical kit, oxygen cylinder, medical kit, ice axe, ropes)
- Trekking permits and forest camping charges
- Accommodation during the trek (Local ,hotal Homestay/Camps) on sharing basis
- All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, coffee, snacks, soup)
- Separate Bio Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents
Exclusions:
- 5% GST
- Any Kind of Personal expenses
- Personal/Travel Insurance
- Backpack offloading charges.
- Hiking pole, shoes, jacket and other renting
gears - Meals during transportaion
- Food items purchased by trekkers during the trek or travel at Local canteen
- Any cost arising due to natural calamities like landslides, roadblocks..etc
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.
Gangotri - Gaumukh - Tapovan Trek
Things To Carry:
- Head Lamps – When trekking at night, headlamps are essential to illuminate your path while keeping your hands free. Headlamps come in different sizes and lumens, so it is essential to choose one that suits your needs.
- Hats or Cap – Caps or hats are also necessary when trekking in different weather conditions. Caps protect your head from the wind and freezing temperatures at night, while hats provide shade and protection from the sun during the day. It’s essential to ensure that your hat has a strap to prevent it from being blown away by the wind.
- Sunglasses – Sunglasses are also essential for trekking. Your sunglasses should protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and fit your face perfectly to avoid falling off while climbing, jumping, or crossing obstacles. The glass of your sunglasses should also be designed for different weather conditions to provide optimal visibility.
- Buff / Balaclava – Lastly, a buff or balaclava is a must-have to protect your mouth or neck from extreme temperatures and keep them warm. Buffs and balaclavas come in different materials, thicknesses, and designs, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Depending on the weather conditions and your activities, you can wear them as neck warmers, face masks, or headbands.
- For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
- For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
- For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
- T-shirt/sleeve shirt– Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants, wearing one and carrying the others. Long sleeve shirts help to protect from sun UV rays. We recommend synthetic T-shirts as they get dry quickly when they get wet.
- Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
- Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
- Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
- Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
- Trek Pants– Bring 2 to 3 comfortable trekking pants. Trekking pants play a significant role, as they are designed for comfort and mobility, making trekking easier. It should be Synthetic so that it gets dry quickly when wet.
- Rain Wear– you can carry a raincoat or Poncho. During long rains and snowfalls, the waterproof jackets start leaking. Still, the Poncho and raincoats keep you dry, so choose accordingly.
-
Tip: If you choose a raincoat on your trek, carry a small waterproof cover so things inside your backpack can’t get wet. If you carry a Poncho, you don’t need to worry. It protects both you and your backpack.
- Sunscreen with UV protection to shield your skin from harmful rays
- 1 or 2 small quick-drying towels to help you dry off quickly in case of rain or sweat
- Toilet paper, tissues or wet wipes for maintaining hygiene while on the trek
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouth freshener to keep your mouth clean and fresh throughout the journey
- Deodorant or talcum powder to help you stay fresh and odor-free, especially during hot and humid climates
- Shampoo to keep your hair clean and healthy
- Sanitary pads or tampons (for female trekkers) to manage menstrual cycles
- Lip-gloss or salve to protect your lips from dryness and chapping
- Bio-degradable soap to keep yourself clean and hygienic while on the trek
- Nail clipper and other personal items that you use daily
- Mandatory Documents: These files must be submitted to the Forest Department before your trek. With none of these, you will not be permitted to trek—original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Carry IDs like Aadhaar, voter ID, etc.