Gangotri-Gaumukh Trek

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Gangotri is on the banks of the river Bhagirathi, located in the Greater Himalayan Range at a height of 3,042 m. The place is a sacred destination for followers of Hindu religion, and is a pilgrimage site.

Gaumukh is about 13 miles southeast of Gangotri. The majestic and the revered River Ganges originates from Gaumukh snout. From Gaumukh, you can enjoy the spellbinding view of the Bhagirathi peaks.

The trekking trail: Gangotri – Chirbasa – Bhojbasa – Gaumukh. This easy to difficult trekking trail follows the Ganges River upstream to its origination. Initially, the trekking trail leads you through dense forests, streams, open spaces, and then the trail is dotted with huge pine trees. Closer to the destination, you can have a clear view of the Gangotri glacier, Shivling Peak, and snow clad mountains.

The trek from Bhojbasa to Gaumukh leads you through a flat narrow valley, surrounded by verdant meadows, you cross rocky terrain and make your way through boulders, descend to reach sandy beach containing granite piles. As you approach the glacier, you need to be little cautious as the trail becomes tentative.

State: Uttranchal

Exact Location: Gangotri is located 100+ km from Uttarkashi and 250+ km from Rishikesh. District: Uttarakshi

Nearest Town: Uttarakshi (100+ km)

How to Reach:

Nearest airport is Jolly Grant near Dehradun, and the nearest railhead is in Rishikesh. There are regular buses to Gangotri from Rishikesh. One can also set base at Uttarkashi and reach Gangotri the next day. Gangotri is around 100+ km from Uttarkashi.

Other Attractions in the Vicinity:

Kedar Tal: Kedar Tal is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, and is located nearly 18 km from Gangotri. The lake is 4000 m above sea level. One can reach this spectacular lake by trekking which is considered to be arduous. In its crystal clear and tranquil blue water, one can see the reflection of the snow clad Thalaiyasagar peak.

Dayara Bugyal: Dayara Bugyal means “high altitude meadow.” It’s 27 km from Uttarkashi, near Bhatwari, on the Uttarkashi-Gangotri highway. In winter, the slopes turn into a skiing range. The place offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayas.

Harsil: This scenic hamlet is situated 24 km before Gangotri at an altitude of 7,860 feet. It’s considered an important stopover on the way to Gangotri and Gaumukh. The place is known for its virgin beauty, apple orchards, lakes, and the meandering Bhagirathi River.

Trek Length: Around 18 km

Grade: Moderate to Challenging

Advisory: Acclimatisation is required before starting this trek

Best Time to Visit: May to June and August to October.

Keep in your Trek Bag:

• Walking stick
• Hiking shoes
• Woolen clothes
• Water, juices, snacks
• Electric torch
• Medical kit
• A good compass
• An extra pair of clothes