Gangotri has always been a hotspot for spiritual growth seekers and adventure enthusiasts. Known as the adobe of Maa Ganga and located within Gangotri National Park, Gangotri offers some of the best treks and expeditions Uttarakhand has to offer. Trekking in Gangotri has something for everyone, be it spiritual growth seekers, hiking enthusiasts, expeditions, and astrophotographers.
Located within the Greater Himalayan Ranges, Gangotri serves as a base camp for multiple treks and expeditions. Treks and expeditions like Tapovan, Gaumukh Yatra, Kedar Tal, Audent’s Col, and Mount Shivling Expedition are always on the list of trekkers and mountaineers. Whether you are in Gangotri or planning your visit soon, Trekking in Gangotri offers the thrill, adventure and spiritual growth one seeks. Below is a detailed list of all the trekking activities in Gangotri.
Table of Contents
The List of Top 9 Best Treks starts from Gangotri
Trekking in the Gangotri offers everything one can think of in hiking. Let us discuss some of the best treks starting from Gangotri in detail:
1. Gaumukh Yatra
| Attributes | Details |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Total Distance | 38 km |
| Altitude | 4,023 m/13,200 ft |
| Terrain Type | Loose Gravel, Valleys, Narrow Trails |
| Permit | Via SWS (Checkout out our permit service) |
| Activities | Spiritual Trek, Wild life spotting, Hiking, Camping |
Gangotri is synonymous with the Gaumukh Yatra or the Gangotri glacier trek. Many Hindu pilgrims and adventure enthusiasts trek to the Gaumukh Glacier (13,200 ft), the source of the holy Ganga River, also known as the Bhagirathi River. Gaumukh Glacier is fed by the snow on the northern slopes of Chaukhamba Peak which further feeds the Bhagirathi River, an important tributary of Ganga.
Gaumukh Yatra is a moderate-level beginner-friendly trek that requires reasonable physical fitness. Passing through the forests of Chirbasa and Bhojbasa, the trail features the unique flora and fauna of Gangotri National Park. You can attempt this trek with friends and family to experience the spiritual aura that surrounds the Gaumukh.
2. Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
| Attributes | Details |
| Difficulty | Moderate-Difficult |
| Total Distance | Approx. 46 km |
| Altitude | 4,460 m/14,633 ft |
| Terrain Type | Loose Gravel, Steep Ascent, Narrow Trails, Meadows, River crossing, Moraine |
| Permit | Via SWS |
| Activities | Camping, Hiking, Adventure, Wildlife spotting, Astrophotography |
Tapovan or Mount Shivling basecamp is another spiritual site that is situated around 5 km from Gangotri Glacier at a height of 14,633 ft. The trek to this high-altitude meadow at the base of Shivling Peak is often clubbed with Gaumukh Yatra, giving it the name of Gaumukh Tapovan Trek. It is a 46 km long trek that takes around 7 days to complete to-and-from.
The trails of Gaumukh Tapovan Trek give an adventurous experience of trekking in Gangotri. You will find Himalayan Bharals grazing in the wide meadows with the Bhagirathi River and Akash Ganga flowing to give you company along the narrow trails. The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a moderate-difficult trek that features spectacular peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas like Bhagirathi Massif (I, II, and III), Mt Shivling, Meru Parvat, Sumeru Parvat, and Kedar Dome.
3. Kedartal Trek
| Attributes | Details |
| Difficulty | Moderate-Difficult |
| Total Distance | Approx. 24 km |
| Altitude | 4,715 m/ 15,470 ft |
| Terrain Type | Steep Ascent, Spider Wall, Rapid Altitude Gain, Moraine |
| Permit Cost | Via SWS |
| Activities | Camping, Spiritual Trek, Hiking, Adventure, Wildlife Spotting |
Kedartal Trek is famous for a glacial lake, Kedartal. Known as ‘Shiva’s Lake’ Kedartal is a beautiful high-altitude lake at 4,715 m. This glacial lake is situated at the foothills of Mt Thalay Sagar and Mt Bhrigupanth in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas. It is formed by the melting of the Kedar Glacier which is the origin of the Kedar Ganga River, an important tributary of the Bhagirathi River. Kedartal is surrounded by other peaks like Gangotri, Manda, Mt Meru, Jogin I, and Jogin II, among others, making this trek even more exciting.
The trekking route to Kedartal starts from Gangotri and takes you through the base camps of Bhojkharak and Kedarkharak. This 24 km moderate-level trek includes challenging terrain with features like a spider wall and steep ascent. This trek is ideal for experienced trekkers and adventurers.
4. Patangini Dhar Trek
| Attributes | Details |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Total Distance | Approx. 45 km |
| Altitude | 4,915 m/16,125 ft |
| Terrain Type | Hanging ridge, Boulders, Loose Gravel |
| Permit Cost | Via SWS and Offilne |
| Activities | Alpine Climbing, Trekking, Adventure, Camping, Astrophotography |
Patangni Dhar Trek is a high-altitude pass that connects Gangotri to Rudugiara Valley. The trail to Patangini dhar goes via campsites of Kedar tal that is Bhojkharak and Kedarkharak.
Patangni Dhar Trek covers a total distance of around 68 km round trip, offering views of Brigupanth Peak, Thalay Sagar Peak, and the entire Kedar Basin. Many find this route ideal for nature lovers who appreciate a mix of challenging walks and beautiful views. The trail to Patangni Dhar Pass is challenging with boulders and ridges, suitable for experienced alpine trekkers.
5. Nandanvan Trek
| Attributes | Details |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Total Distance | Approx. 60 km |
| Altitude | 4,338 m/ 14,232 m |
| Terrain Type | Meadows, Glacial Moraine, Steep Ascent, Loose Gravel |
| Permit Cost | Via SWS and Offline |
| Activities | Alpine Climbing, Adventure, Trekking, Hiking, Astrophotography |
Nandanvan Trek is an exciting trekking destination located at the base of Bhagirathi Massif in the core of Gangotri National Park. Its trekking route features an adventurous and sacred trail with steep ascents and descents with high-altitude meadows of Tapovan. You can reach Nandanvan camping ground after trekking about 7 km further from Tapovan.
The Nandanvan Trek starts from Tapovan, leading to beautiful views of peaks like Mt. Shivling (6543m), Kedardome (6940 m), Mt. Meru (6,660 m) and Kirti Bamak Glacier. This route requires trekkers to trek over glacial moraine, making it a challenging trek ideal for seasoned trekkers.
6. Vasuki Tal Trek
| Attributes | Details |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Total Distance | Approx. 65 km |
| Altitude | 4,900 m/16,200 ft |
| Terrain Type | Gradual Ascent, Narrow Trails, Glacial Morraine, Ravines |
| Permit Cost | Via SWS and Offline |
| Activities | Glacier Trek, Spiritual, Hiking, Adventure |
Vasuki Tal is a high-altitude glacial lake fed by the melting waters of Mt. Vasuki. Located at a height of 4,900 m, this is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site and is said to be the abode of Vasuki Naag. Vasuki Tal Trek is an adventurous destination for trekking in Gangotri National Park that allows you to walk over glaciers and challenging alpine terrain.
The trail to Vasuki Tal passes through rocky and narrow trails with snow-covered meadows. This is one of the most thrilling glacial lake treks that lets you camp on the meadows near Mt Shivling, Mt Bhagirathi and Mt Vasuki. If you are an experienced trekker, Vasuki Tal Trek is perfect for you. It offers unique and exceptional visuals of Shivling, Meru, Kedardome, Vasuki and Bhagirathi I, II, and III as you climb up to the zero point.
7. Kalindi Khal Trek
| Attributes | Details |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Total Distance | Approx. 100 km |
| Altitude | 5,942 m/ 19,494 ft |
| Terrain Type | Moraine, Steep Slopes, Frozen Fields, Deep Crevasses |
| Permit Cost | Offline |
| Activities | Technical Alpine Climbing, Adventure, Camping |
Kalindi Khal Trek stands as an extremely challenging expedition in the Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of 5,942 m. This high-altitude mountain pass has an important trekking route connecting the Gangotri and Ghastoli Badrinath. The 100 km long trail is a very difficult and risky trek as it requires trekkers to walk over moraines and snow fields with deep crevasses.
Kalindi Khal is the most challenging and toughest trek in India suitable for trekkers who are well-acquainted with technical and high-altitude climbing. The elevation adds to the difficulty but the beautiful views of peaks like Meru, Bhagirathi Massif, Shivling, Satopanth, Vasuki, and Chandra make it a rewarding experience. You can catch the sights of Chaturangi, Gangotri, Shweta, and Kalindi Glaciers with a chance to camp beside Vasuki Lake.
8. Jogin Advance Base Camp Trek
| Attributes | Details |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Total Distance | Approx 50 km |
| Altitude | 5,150 m/16,896 ft |
| Terrain Type | Knife-edge ridges, Steep rock faces, Glacial Moraine |
| Permit Cost | Offline |
| Activities | Advanced Technical Climbing, Trekking, Hiking, Camping |
If you are looking for an advanced technical climbing experience for trekking in Gangotri, Jogin ABC Trek is your ideal destination. Located at a height of over 5,150 m, this trek offers a close view of Mt Manda 1, 2 & 3, Mt Brigupanth, Mt Thalaysagar, and Kedar-bamak glacier with a ridge connecting Jogin 1,2,3 ranges.
The Jogin Advanced Base Camp is accessible from Kedartal via Kedar Kharak meadow, from where it requires around 3 km hike on the glacial moraine. You can find the Himalayan Ibex grazing in the alpine meadows on the trails. This is a challenging trekking route with knife-edge ridges and steep rock faces that require technical alpine climbing skills.
9. Auden’s Col Trek
| Attributes | Details |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Total Distance | Approx 115 km from Gangotri |
| Altitude | 5,490 m/ 18,011 ft |
| Terrain Type | Sharp Ridges, Steep Slopes, Boulders, Moraine, Crevasses, Glacial Lakes |
| Permit Cost | Offline |
| Activities | Technical Alpine Rock Climbing, Streams and Crevasses Crossing, Trekking, Hiking, Camping |
Auden’s Col Trek was discovered by John Bicknell Auden from the Geological Survey of India in 1939. Auden’s Col is the lowest point in the ridge that connects Gangotri III and Jogin peaks. Situated at an altitude of 5,490 m, this pass has played an important role in the historical attempts at trekking in Gangotri National Park.
The trekking route to Auden’s Col features challenging non-technical trails with sharp ridges, crevasses, boulders, steep ascent, unfavorable weather, and rugged terrain. The trails take you through the thick forests of Himalayan Birch and Oak in the beginning to a vast expanse of alpine meadows. Further, the trail transforms into tough high-altitude terrain with many glaciated lakes on your way. Auden’s Col also connects Rudugaira with Bhilangna Valley and has an important but difficult trekking route that connects the holy towns of Gangotri and Kedarnath.
Procedure To Get a Permit For Trekking in Gangotri
A permit is required to enter the premises of Gangotri National Park for trekking and pilgrimage activities in the protected area. Only a limited number of tourists are allowed inside the park, at a time, to avoid crowds, and the permit costs around INR 125-225 per person. For foreign nationals, permit costs can range from INR 400-800. It can be obtained through two modes:
- Online Method: Permits can be obtained online via the Single Window System (SWS) of Uttarakhand’s official website. Only registered agencies can make permits from SWS, individuals are not allowed. Documents like Trek Insurance, Medical Certificate, and Declaration will need to be submitted. Connect with the trekking agency to make an online permit.
- Offline Method: Sub-divisional Magistrate (SDM), District Forest Officer (DFO) of Uttarkashi District and Indian Mountaineering Foundation grants the permit for trekking in Gangotri and expeditions. You must carry your AADHAR Card PAN Card, and expedition itinerary in case of a mountaineering expedition as required documents to obtain official permission from the local department of Uttarkashi and IMF.
Carry the permit slip carefully throughout your trip, as it can be checked at various checkpoints inside the Gangotri National Park.
Challenges You May Face on Trails
Trekking in the Gangotri can seem to be exciting, however, it comes with several challenges that you may face while traversing the difficult terrain. These risk factors include:
- Terrain Difficulties: The Gangotri region has rocky, steep, and uneven terrain that needs careful navigation and physical effort. It includes various altitudes prone to landslides, with deep gorges and loose gravel impacting footing and balance while trekking.
- Sudden Weather Changes: You may experience adverse weather conditions, such as sudden rain or snowfall when attempting alpine climbing in Gangotri.
- Altitude Sickness including AMS: Some of the trekking destinations in Gangotri are located at more than 4,500 m elevation. You may face altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and shortness of breath due to reduced oxygen levels when trekking without acclimatizing.
- Mental Fatigue: Treks like Gaumukh-Tapovan and Nandanvan-Vasuki Tal trek take more than a week to complete. Covering such long distances on the mountains may lead to physical exertion along with mental fatigue that may impact your focus and will to complete the entire trek.
- Getting Lost on the Trail: Trekking in Gangotri requires you to pass through several marked and unmarked trails, which might leave you stranded. Poor visibility due to weather changes or navigational mistakes is another risk factor.
Safety Tips To Prepare For The Challenges
It requires thorough preparation and strategic planning for a better trekking experience in the region. Here are some tips to help you minimize risks for a memorable adventure:
- Physical Preparation: Moderate or difficult-level hiking in the mountains of Gangotri like the Kedartal trek or Kalindi Khal trek requires good physical fitness. You must add strength and resistance training to your cardio routine to build muscular strength and endurance.
- Safety Protocols for Hiking: To avoid any hazards on hiking, follow all the safety rules of hiking such as carrying a first aid kit, using sturdy gear, and creating an emergency plan. Many local guide services are available in Gangotri, you may hire them to ensure your safety.
- Understand the trail: Research the route to the trek you want to attempt. Familiarize yourself with the terrain of the Gangotri region, including elevation gains and losses, river crossings, and landslide areas
- Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers to manage the unpredictable climate of the Gangotri. Start with a base layer, an insulating layer, and top it with a water-resistant outer layer. Wear sturdy and waterproof trekking shoes or boots with ankle support.
- Be Weather-Updated: Keep a close eye on weather forecasts and warnings before planning the trip. Look out at the weather history of the Gagotri region and assess its temperature, humidity, and wind direction, to anticipate changes.
- Essential things for lightweight packing: These treks start from Gangotri and will take you through long and arduous trails with steep slopes and difficult mountainous terrains that take several days to complete. Carry only the necessary gear and supplies, that will help in reducing pack weight such as a water bottle, protein-rich food, and a sleeping bag to avoid the stress of extra weight.
Additional Tips for the Best Trekking Experience in Gangotri
To ensure a fulfilling and safe experience, here are essential tips to consider before and during your trek:
- Best Time for Trekking in Gangotri: The best season for trekking is from April to June and mid September to early November. The spring season makes the landscape colorful with comfortable weather conditions, while autumn is best if you want to experience the picture-perfect beauty of Gangotri with slightly chilly weather. If you are planning to visit Gangotri Dham as well, plan your treks between May and to end of October, when the temple is open for pilgrims.
- Get a Trip card: If you plan to travel with a private vehicle in Gangotri, register your vehicle on Uttarakhand’s official portal to get a Char Dham Trip Card.
- Food and Hydration: Not many food stalls are available on the hiking trails inside Gangotri National Park, so pack your supplies to stay prepared. Carry food items like snacks like energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and trail mixes. Carry water bottles to refill safe drinking water from streams and rivers.
- Acclimatize properly: Take at least a day to acclimatize to high altitudes. You can spend a day in Gangotri or Uttarkashi to help your body get accustomed to the new environment.
- Explore the nearby attractions: In addition to visiting the Gangotri Dham, you can visit the Bhagirath Shila, Pandav Gufa, Surya Kund, and Gauri Kund.
- Carry Appropriate Gear: Carry sturdy trekking poles for stability on the rugged terrains of Gangotri. Use a good backpack with a rain cover, a sturdy sleeping bag, a headlamp, and pack sun protection.
- Leave No Trace: The ecosystem of the Gangotri’s protected area is sensitive with a threat of many glaciers receding at present. It is our responsibility to maintain and preserve the natural beauty of the region by following the principles of leaving no trace by disposing of waste properly, clearing the trail, and reducing the trash during the campfire. Avoid disturbing the habitat of wildlife to ensure your and their safety.
Conclusion
Gangotri has some of the most impressive mountain peaks like Gangotri massif, Bhagirathi massif, Jogin peaks, and Mt Shivling, among others that offer thrilling trekking and expedition to climbers. Each trek, whether to the spiritual path to Gaumukh or the toughest and most challenging route to Kalindi Khal, each offers unique experiences. The scenic trails, the natural environments, and the mythological significance of the town make it an ideal destination for trekkers.
Exploration of its fragile ecosystem must be done while being mindful of ecotourism best practices for the preservation of wilderness. So plan your next trek to embrace the spirit of trekking in Gangotri and discover the beauty of this sacred land of Himalayas.
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