Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, Uttarakhand
Trip Highlights
Embark on a journey to the source of the Ganga as you trek to Gaumukh, famous for its rugged terrain and views of various high peaks.
Experience the thrill of climbing 11,745 ft. above the ground as you ascend to Chirbasa and spot diverse wildlife as you pass through it.
Enjoy the peace at Bhojbasa campsite, located along the banks of the Bhagirathi River, offering stunning views of the Bhagirathi peaks.
Head to the highlight of the trek, Tapovan, famous for its spiritual significance and views of the Gangotri Glacier, Bhagirathi Peaks, and Aakash Ganga.
Take a descending journey to Gaumukh, known for the revered end of the Gangotri Glacier and the birthplace of the holy River Ganges.
Know Before You Go
- ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of booking, and also upon arrival. PAN card will not be considered as a valid address proof.
- Climatic conditions in the high altitudes vary from the plains; take adequate time to get acclimatized to high altitudes.
- The management reserves all the right to modify the trek during any emergencies or natural calamities.
- Pay heed to the trek guides and instructors in order to enjoy a safe and sound trek.
- The trek takes place through an eco-friendly zone; do not encourage littering the local sites or campsites. Travelers littering may be fined.
- Do not encourage trekking during the night unless it is a part of the itinerary and a guide is with you; this might lead to unforeseen mishaps.
- Avoid using plastic bags and maintain the ecological balance of the destinations.
- In case, the trek needs to be canceled, the authorities should be informed beforehand.
- Professional guide(s) are available to ensure high safety and more information and personal attention which are necessary to appreciate a trek.
- Mobile & laptop charging points may/may not be available on campsites at a common point.
- Any personal expenses, items of personal nature, meals not mentioned, etc. will not be in part of the package.
- Carry dry snacks/food from home (you will save a lot of money). Carry water bottles with you, so that you can refill
- Keep your luggage minimum; the more you carry, the more you hassle.
- Children below the age of 7 years are not recommended for this trek.
- It is recommended to carry enough warm clothes and the right kind of shoes for Gangotri Gomukh trek.
- Avoid using earphones during Gomukh Glacier trek, this might hinder your audibility.
- Liability for change in itinerary due to reasons beyond our control like a change in flight and train schedule, cancellation of flights/1trains, political disturbances, natural phenomenon, roadblocks, etc. will not be accommodated in the package cost. No bill will be reimbursed for any missed service/facility.
- During a trip, in case the roads are blocked due to landslides or a reason that is beyond control, Thrillophilia will rearrange the itinerary for the travellers real-time, however, the cost of alternative accommodation will be borne by the customer as the hotels pre-booked execute their cancellation policies and are nonrefundable.
- The difference in the cost shall be borne by the client in case of any amendment in the package due to change in the number of guests, hotel change, itinerary change, etc.
- If in case any traveller wants to or decides to leave the trip in the middle, all the expenses from that point onwards will be borne by the traveller. Neither the operator nor Thrillophilia will be held responsible for such decisions or for any refund.
- The refund or compensation is also not issued if for any reason you have to come down from the trek. The trek leader may send you down from the trek, owing to reasons like lack of fitness, AMS, blood pressure, turn-around-time, health issues, or if you are found smoking/ drinking, or breaking the rules of the trek. refund or compensation are issued only when the whole trek is cancelled or called off on behalf of Thrillophilia.
- Carry basic medications and a first-aid kit during the trek.
- All the activities depend upon the weather and electricity may be available only at a few locations.
- Thrillophilia' reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which Thrilllophilia or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. Thrillophilia reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.
- Because of any reason natural or personal, if the trek or a particular activity is not completed, no refund will be processed.
Additional Information
About the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek:
The Gaumukh Tapovan trek is a thrillfest with gigantic views of the cow-shaped Gaumukh Glacier which is also one of the main water sources of the holy Ganges. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Gangotri peaks - Shivling, Thalay Sagar, and Meru.
The Gomukh Tapovan trek is scenic with nature's bounty and is decorated with fragrant flowers, snow-capped peaks, and similar jaw-dropping views. Take a dip in the holy Bhagirathi River, which is considered one of the sacred rituals. During the Gomukh glacier trek, one can also immerse in the divine aura of the pilgrim cities- Rishikesh, Uttarkashi, Gangotri, and Bhojwassa. Marvel at the sight of the Bhagirathi sisters to experience the summit views.
Quick facts about Gaumukh Tapovan Trek:
Duration Of Gomukh Trek: 8D/7N
Maximum altitude: 14222 ft.
Gomukh Tapovan trek gradient: Moderate
Gomukh Trek route distance: 46 Km
Temperature: Day: 18°C to 12°C and Night: 5°C to -5°C
Best time for Gangotri Gomukh trek: May end to June, September to October
ATM: Uttarkashi
Start Point/End Point: Gangotri
How to reach Gangotri:
By Rail:
The nearest railway station to Gangotri is Rishikesh 234 km before Gangotri on NH58 and is well connected by railway network with major destinations of India. Trains to Rishikesh are frequent. Taxis and buses are available from Rishikesh, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkashi, and many other destinations to Gangotri.
By Air:
How to reach Gangotri by Air- The nearest airport to Gangotri is Jolly Grant Airport which is located around at the distance of 250kms. This airport is well linked to Delhi and there are numbers of daily flights to Delhi which connects to major parts of the country.
By Road:
Gangotri can be reached only via road in a bus, privately operated jeeps, SUVs/ other vehicles. The journey from Rishikesh takes about 12 hours. Taxi/Jeeps are also available from Taxi Stations in Rishikesh, Haridwar & Dehradun. Tourist cabs are available from Dehradun/Rishikesh.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Inclusions:
1. Accommodation – Tented accommodation throughout the Gomukh trek.
2. Meals – (Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner). We provide simple, nutritious vegetarian food on all days of the Gangotri Gomukh trek.
3. Camping charges – All trekking permits and forest camping charges are included.
4. Trekking equipment – High-quality tents and sleeping bags in all the camps. Sleeping bags can withstand temperatures as low as -10 ºC.
5. Safety equipment – First aid kit, oxygen cylinders, oximeter, etc. will be with guide/trek leader and at the campsite as well to deal with emergencies.
6. Expert trek Leaders – All our trek leaders are at least qualified in basic/advanced mountaineering and first aid course.
7. Expert Trek support team – The mountain staff on the Gomukh Gangotri trek consists of certified guides, cooks, helpers, and porters.
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Uttarkashi Tour faqs
When is the best time for Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
The best time to do the Gaumukh trek is in the months of May, June, September, and October. These months see temperatures ranging between 15 degrees and 20 degrees Celsius, with low chances of rainfall. You can also see traces of snow on the trail in these four months.
How can I reach Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
The Gomukh Gangotri trek starts from the quaint little village of Uttarkashi which is perched about 1150 m above mean sea level and then proceeds towards Gangotri, a high-altitude destination at 3048 m. From Gangotri, the Gomukh glacier trek takes one towards Bhojwassa (3792 m) via Chirbasa (3600 m). On Day 3, the trek is scheduled to even higher altitudes of Gomukh (3890 m/12760 ft.) and Tapovan.
Tapovan is the highest point of the trek at a mind boggling elevation of 4463 m or 14640 ft. above the sea level. If height excites you, you can also choose the Gaumukh Tapovan Nandanvan trek which takes you to further altitudes.
What will be the average temperature at Gomukh Trek?
The average temperature on Gomukh Gangotri trek in the day time will be about 12°C-17°C and in the night time, it can be as low as 2°C-7°C and can drop to -2°C - 3°C at Tapovan.
What is the difficulty level of Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
The difficulty level of Gaumukh Trek ranges from moderate to difficult and therefore is not recommended for first timers. There are tricky glacier sections to be crossed in addition to steep climbs. Irrespective of your prior experience, it is essential that you be very fit and well prepared for the trek.
How long is the Gomukh trek route?
The Gomukh trek route is scheduled for 8 days starting from Dehradun and with overnight camping stays at Gangotri, Bhojwassa, Gomukh, and Tapovan.
Is Gomukh Tapovan a good trek for first timer?
The Gaumukh Tapovan trek is not recommended for first timers. There are tricky glacier sections to be crossed in addition to steep climbs. Irrespective of your prior experience, it is essential that you be very fit and well prepared for the trek.
Is camping allowed in Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
Yes, camping is allowed in the Gaumukh Tapovan trek. You can enjoy the starlit skies along with a small bonfire as you camp here. At Bhojbasa there is a beautiful riverside camp where you will be staying. At Tapovan enjoy camping at a high altitude with mesmerizing surroundings all around.
What all things I should carry for the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
The following checklist should help you with your packing for Gomukh trek. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum:
-Hiking boots
-Trainers or sandals for river crossings and camp use
-Walking socks (3 pairs)
-Spare laces
-Trekking trousers
-Waterproof overtrousers
-Underwear
-Thermal baselayer - leggings
-Baselayer shirts (short sleeve and 1 long sleeve)
-Shirts or T-shirts
-Fleece jacket or warm jumper
-Waterproof jacket
-Sunhat Warm hat
-Sunglasses
-Gloves or mittens
-Daypack 30 litres
-Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)
-Headtorch and spare batteries
-Water bottles 1 litre (x2)
-Sleeping bag (comfort rated -10ºC) (minus 15ºC for late November and December trips)
-Washbag and toiletries
-Antibacterial handwash
-Small towel
-Basic First Aid Kit including: antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), altitude (Diamox), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite).
-Small padlock
How much does the Gaumukh trek cost?
Gaumukh Tapovan trek packages can cost anywhere between INR 15,000 and INR 18,000. The prices depend on the starting point of the trek, which can be Gangotri or Dehradun-Rishikesh. The trek costs are inclusive of all important things like meals, accommodations, permits, tour guides, and activities like trekking and camping.
How do I prepare for the Tapovan trek?
You need to ensure you can walk five kilometres in around 30 minutes before going on the Gaumukh Tapovan trek. Get the essentials like good-quality trekking shoes, waterproof backpack, warm layers of clothes, and mandatory documents ready. You should also pack accessories like gloves, headlamp, trekking pole, rainwear, sunglasses, cap, and sunscreen. Toiletries like toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, moisturiser, and medicines are also important.
What is the level of physical fitness required for the Gaumukh Tapovan trek?
You will need to be able to complete a five-kilometre walk in around 30 minutes to trek comfortably at Gaumukh Tapovan. In order to achieve this level of physical fitness, you should do cardiovascular exercises like jogging regularly. Since this trek requires six to eight weeks of preparation, start your physical training early to achieve the target before going on the trek.
Is it safe to do the Gaumukh Tapovan trek?
Yes, the Gangotri Gaumukh Tapovan trek is absolutely safe for trekkers who have the required physical fitness. The trek is not recommended for beginners or those with health issues due to its steep ascent and high altitude. However, if the fitness levels are followed, the trek is safe for solo as well as group treks.
What is the altitude of the Gaumukh Tapovan trek?
Gaumukh Tapovan trek starts from Gangotri, which is located at an altitude of 10,050 feet. As you trek up from here, you will cross different campsites and landscapes like meadows, forests, and villages. The maximum altitude covered on the trail is 14,203 feet, which you reach at Tapovan.
Can I do the Gaumukh Tapovan trek solo?
You can trek to Gaumukh on your own, but when you start the trek to Tapovan, you will need a trek guide. The trail is pretty easy till Gaumukh and most trekkers prefer doing it solo. However, the ascent becomes steep and difficult as the altitude rises to Tapovan, which is why a guided trek is better.
What is the distance covered on the Gaumukh Tapovan trek?
The Gaumukh Tapovan trek covers a total distance of 46 kilometres from its base camp at Gangotri. The trail covers different terrains which range from flat areas to steep slopes that cause difficulties in climbing. This is one of the longer-lasting Himalayan treks as it is completed over a period of seven days.
What is the accommodation like on the Gaumukh Tapovan trek?
Accommodation is included in the Gaumukh Tapovan trek cost and is provided in tents and guesthouses. These guesthouses are available at lower altitudes, while tents are used at the campsites located at higher altitudes. Both kinds of accommodation facilities are provided on a twin-sharing basis on all overnight stays during the trek.
Where is the starting point of the Gaumukh Tapovan trek?
The starting point of the Gaumukh Tapovan trek is Gangotri, one of the highest Hindu temples in India. Gangotri is famous as a site of pilgrimage and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. It is also the entry to the Gangotri National Park, which you explore as part of the trek.
What is Gaumukh Tapovan famous for?
Gaumukh Tapovan is the trek that takes you to the source of the River Ganges, one of the most sacred Indian rivers. On your way, you will also see the stunning Mt Shivling from the base to the top. Other rewarding views are of the Bhagirathi sisters from top to bottom, along with the Gangotri glacier.
Can the Gaumukh Tapovan trek be done in one day?
No, the Gaumukh Tapovan trek itinerary is too long to be covered in a single day. You will need a minimum of seven days to complete the entire journey. Since the trek is around 46 kilometres long and reaches a height of more than 14,000 feet, a quicker itinerary is not possible.
Which are the other best Uttarakhand treks that we can book from Thrillophilia?
Here is the list of best Uttarakhand treks that you can book from Thrillophilia: