Doorway to the origin of river "Ganga"
6 NIGHTS/7 DAYS
4463 Meters
Moderate-Difficult
47 KM
April | May | June | September | October | November
20
The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is a profound excursion that takes you through the mystical landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India. Spanning eight days and covering roughly 46 kilometers, the journey begins at the esteemed Gangotri, a site sacred to Hindus as the earthly entrance of the Ganges. The route ascends from the Bhagirathi River’s banks, moving through dense forests rich with birch and pine, and evolves into the barren and rocky stretches near the river’s origin. This trek is not only a test of physical endurance but also an opportunity for deep spiritual connection.
Trekkers navigate from the historic Gangotri Temple, through Chirbasa and Bhojbasa, reaching the Gaumukh Glacier, known as the ‘Cow’s Mouth,’ where the Ganges starts its extensive flow across India. The segment from Gaumukh to Tapovan is notably demanding but offers awe-inspiring views of Mt. Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks. Tapovan, perched above 4,463 meters, is a serene high-altitude meadow surrounded by impressive peaks, providing a peaceful spot for reflection and meditation. Adorned with caves used by ascetics and colorful prayer flags, Tapovan’s spiritual ambiance is palpable.
The return trek to Gangotri is a time for introspection, as the landscape transitions from the stark high-altitude scenery back to lush woodlands. Ending where it began, the trek leaves participants with a sense of both spiritual and physical fulfillment.
This trek is more than just a physical challenge; it is a pilgrimage through the heart of Hindu mythology, deepening the understanding of the sacred and mystical forces that define this region. Trekkers come away not only with memories of the landscape’s grandeur but with a profound appreciation for the Himalayas’ spiritual essence.
Badrinath
Dehradun Railway Station
Dehradun
Jolly Grant Airport
(Summers-25° Max/ 10° Min) (Winters-18° Max/ -5° Min)
Badrinath: Jio and Airtel Networks are available. During trek no networks are available.
Badrinath is the last point that has electricity. Note: Most of the electricity is extremely intermittent and can be absent for most part of the day during winter/late summer (when monsoon starts to set in)
Joshimath, on the way to badrinath has last ATM. Note: Most of time ATM in hilly regions are not functioning.
Day 1: Dehradun to Badrinath
The journey to the Satopanth Tal trek begins in Dehradun. The entire first day will be spent commuting to Badrinath, covering a distance of 336 km. Along the route, we will travel through Rishikesh, followed by the sacred confluences of Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandaprayag, before reaching Joshimath. Joshimath, originally known as Jyotirmath, is one of four religious centers established by Adi Shankaracharya across India. Points of interest in Joshimath include the temples of Nav Durga and Narsingh. We will arrive at Badrinath by late evening, check into the hotel, and stay overnight after dinner.
Day 2: Badrinath to Laxmivan via Mana
After breakfast on the second day, we will depart for Mana village, the starting point of our trek to Satopanth Tal. Located approximately 3 km from Badrinath, on the banks of the River Saraswati, Mana village is renowned for its cultivation of potatoes and kidney beans. The village is also known for handwoven woolen garments such as mufflers, carpets, caps, and sweaters made from sheep wool. Here, we will visit the famous Vyas Gufa, where Maharshi Vyas composed the Epic Mahabharata with the help of Lord Ganesha. Nearby, the Ganesh Gufa, where Lord Ganesha transcribed the epic, is also located. After more than 2 hours of walking alongside the river Alaknanda, we will reach the Vasudhara Falls. Leaving the waterfall behind, we traverse through the rich birch forest of Laxmivan. Walking through this serene and densely wooded area, we can spot Bhojpatra trees and a variety of wildflowers. The valley then widens, with the prominent Balakun massif in front. After approximately 4 km on an elevated trail, we reach the campground at Laxmivan, surrounded by awe-inspiring views of peaks like Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, and Balakun. We set up camp here for the night.
Day 3: Laxmivan to Chakrateerth
On the third day, we will make our way to Chakrateerth, covering another 11 km toward Satopanth Tal. The terrain becomes more challenging and hazardous, as it shifts to icy moraines studded with stones and rocks. Today’s trek is interspersed with green patches amid continuous climbs towards the Dhano Glacier. This segment offers spectacular views of snow-capped mountain peaks, including the Bhagirathi Group of Peaks, visible from the Satopanth Valley. Weather conditions here can be very unpredictable, with temperatures likely to drop suddenly in the afternoon; thus, it’s advisable to keep jackets accessible. We’ll carefully ascend the treacherous stretch between Sahashradhara and the Chakrateerth meadow. Upon arrival at the Chakrateerth camping site, the western face of Mt. Neelkanth is distinctly visible.
Day 4: Chakrateerth to Satopanth Lake and back to Chakrateerth
Building on the awe-inspiring vistas from the previous day, prepare for a strenuous day of trekking. We navigate through a rocky landscape filled with the constant noise of landslides. Our experienced trek guides will ensure safe passage across this challenging terrain. The final 2 km features loose soil over the icy moraine. Upon reaching the highest vantage point, the first breathtaking view of Satopanth Tal unfolds. Approaching the lake, the magnificent peaks of Balakun, Swargarohini, and Chaukhamba become increasingly prominent. After spending some time at the lake and capturing numerous photos, we begin our descent back to the Chakrateerth camp.
Day 5: Chakrateerth to Laxmivan
We begin our descent to Laxmivan after breakfast, taking in the spectacular scenery along the way back to the Laxmivan campsite.
Day 6: Laxmivan to Badrinath
On the final day of the trek, we depart from Laxmivan to Badrinath. Upon returning to Badrinath, you may choose to take a dip in a hot water spring to feel refreshed and relaxed.
Day 7: Badrinath to Dehradun
After a hearty breakfast, we drive back to Dehradun. Arriving in the late evening, marks the end of our adventurous and memorable journey.
Basics Gears
Clothes
Accessories
Others
Mandatory Documents
Cancellation Policy
Refund Policy
The following refund shall be payable to the user in case of valid cancellation as per the guidelines
Note: The above-mentioned refunds are subjected to deductions for any expenses that may have been incurred for hotel booking or
transport etc. Refunds are applicable on the total cost and not on the advance amount.
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