Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
Doorway to the origin of river "Ganga"
- Uttarakhand, India
- Starting From :
₹ 17999/-
DURATION
6 NIGHTS/7 DAYS
MAX ELEVATION
4463 Meters
GRADIENT
Moderate-Difficult
DISTANCE
47 KM
BEST MONTH
April | May | June | September | October | November
GROUP SIZE
20
Gaumukh Tapovan Trek - Overview
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.
Gaumukh Tapovan Trek - Complete Information
Quick Facts
Base camp
Gangotri
Pickup
Dehradun Railway station
Nearest Railway Station
Dehradun
Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant Airport
Temperature
(Summers-25° Max/ 10° Min) (Winters-18° Max/ -5° Min)
Mobile Network
Gangotri: Jio/VI/Airtel Networks are available. During trek no networks are available.
Electricity
Gangotri 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)
Last ATM
Uttarkashi, on the way to Gangotri has last ATM Note: Most of time ATM in hilly regions are not functioning.
Short Itinerary- Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri | Drive: 10-12 Hrs
- Day 2: Gangotri to Chirbasa | Trek: 5-6 Hrs
- Day 3: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa | Trek: 2-3 Hrs
- Day 4: Bhojbasa to Gaumukh and Tapovan | Trek: 5-6 Hrs
- Day 5: Tapovan to Bhojbasa | Trek: 3-4 Hrs
- Day 6: Bhojbasa to Gangotri | Trek: 5-6 Hrs
- Day 7: Gangotri to Dehradun | Drive: 10-12 Hrs
Detailed ItineraryDay 1: Dehradun to Gangotri
- Distance: 250 km (Drive)
- Time: 10-12 Hours
The trek initiates with a dawn departure from Dehradun, heading towards Gangotri over a 250-kilometer route. The drive is scenic, winding through Mussoorie, Uttarkashi, and Harsil, showcasing stunning vistas of the Himalayas and the Bhagirathi River. On arrival at Gangotri, participants are encouraged to visit the revered Gangotri Temple, a significant site dedicated to Goddess Ganga, where they can seek divine blessings for their upcoming adventure.
Day 2: Gangotri to Chirbasa
- Distance: 9 km (Trek)
- Time: Roughly 5-6 Hours
Departing from Gangotri, the trail meanders along the Bhagirathi River through dense forests teeming with birch and pine. The trek to Chirbasa serves as a mild introduction to the journey, culminating at about 3,600 meters above sea level. Here, trekkers can bask in the panoramic beauty of the river flanked by towering peaks, providing an ideal setting for the night’s encampment.
Day 3: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa
- Distance: 5 km (Trek)
- Time: 2-3 Hours
As the trek advances towards Bhojbasa, the environment transitions to a more desolate and rugged landscape, offering expansive vistas of the Bhagirathi peaks. Located approximately 3,800 meters above sea level, Bhojbasa presents a strategic spot for appreciating the mountainous panorama and is perfect for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Bhojbasa to Gaumukh to Tapovan
- Distance: 9 km (Trek)
- Time: 5-6 Hours
A significant day awaits as trekkers head towards Gaumukh, the source of the Ganges. This segment culminates with a visit to the glacier’s snout, followed by a strenuous ascent to Tapovan. Perched at 4,463 meters, Tapovan offers awe-inspiring views of Mt. Shivling, Meru Peak, and the Bhagirathi peaks, providing a tranquil haven for meditation and overnight camping.
Day 5: Tapovan to Bhojbasa
- Distance: 9 km (Trek)
- Time: 3-4 Hours
The journey back to Bhojbasa allows trekkers to ponder the experiences gathered thus far. The return path is less taxing and presents new perspectives on the stunning landscapes traversed previously.
Day 6: Bhojbasa to Gangotri
- Distance: 14 km (Trek)
- Time: 5-6 Hours
The trekking adventure concludes with a return to Gangotri, descending through familiar forests alongside the Bhagirathi River. This final trekking day provides a last chance to immerse in the majestic Himalayan views.
Day 7: Gangotri to Dehradun
- Distance: 250 km (Drive)
- Time: 10-12 Hours
On the final day, the drive back to Dehradun offers trekkers a moment to reflect on their profound journey, likely transformative in both tangible and intangible ways. This route through Uttarakhand’s winding roads also gives a chance to unwind and reminisce about the trek.
Things To CarryBasics Gears
- Backpack
- Trekking Shoes
- Trekking Pole
- LED Torch
- One Water Bottle (one litre)
- Lunch Box
- Basic Medications (or prescribed if any)
Clothes
- Trekking Jacket
- Warm Layers
- Two trek pants
- Full sleeve dry-fit T-shirts
- Thermals (1 pair)
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreeen Lotion (SPF 50/70)
- Lip Balm (SPF 30)
- Synthetic hand gloves
- Woolen Cap
- Three pair of Socks
- Raincoat/Poncho is a must
Others
- Daypack (Recommended), for summit Day
- Plastic cover (for wet clothes in winters and rainy season)
Mandatory Documents
- Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Passport, Aadhaar Card, Driving license or voters ID
Inclusion Exclusion- Transport support from Dehradun to Dehradun.
- All vegetarian meals starting from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day.
- Triple accommodation in Gangotri on Day 1 and Day 6.
- Triple sharing Tent accommodation throughout the trek.
- Professional guide, cook and support staff.
- Rent for camping equipment.
Clean sleeping bags and mats.
Good quality ¾ or 4 season ‘A’ shaped or dome tents
– Kitchen tents, common tents, toilet tents. - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals – For non-
Indian passport holders; there will be an additional charge. - Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment and NOT personal luggage.
- All applicable taxes
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above.
- Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions.
- Accommodation in Dehradun.
- Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, road blocks etc.
- Porter/mule charges to carry personal luggage – Can be arranged at an additional cost of INR 500 per day (1 soft bag per person < 12 kg).
Cancellation PolicyCancellation Policy
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- We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel, reduce, or amend a guaranteed reservation, please do so by 12 noon, 15 days prior to arrival to avoid cancellation charges. Any cancellation made within 15 days of arrival will be 100% non-refundable. Bookings made under non-cancellable or non-amendable packages or rates cannot be canceled or amended, and the full amount of the advance paid will be treated as the cancellation fee. The same terms apply if guests do not show up.
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- For all bookings other than non-cancellable ones, if the guest does not show up, the complete booking will be non-refundable. If the guest chooses to check out early, one night’s room rate, including taxes, will be charged. No cancellations will be accepted over the phone or via WhatsApp message. Please reply to the email confirmation you received at the time of booking to request a cancellation.
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- No refunds will be provided in case of problems arising due to government orders, harsh weather conditions, protests, landslides, or other unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, we usually have a backup plan ready and will proceed with that. Sometimes, we may have to cancel activities mentioned in the itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.
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- If a trek is called off at the last moment due to natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances (such as rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strikes, or bandhs), participants will be provided with a travel voucher for the same amount. This voucher can be used within 365 days of the issuance date for any package of equal value, subject to availability.
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- If a trek or trip has to be aborted midway due to natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances, no refund will be provided. Mountainiax will not bear any extra expenses due to such natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances.
Refund Policy
The following refund shall be payable to the user in case of valid cancellation as per the guidelines
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- Cancellations up to 21 days prior to departure date – 70% refund
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- Between 21 days to 14 days prior to departure – 50% refund
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- Between 14 days to 10 days prior to departure- 30% refund
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- Less than 10 days of departure – No refund or you can transfer
your trek (same batch date & same trek) to your dear one.
- Less than 10 days of departure – No refund or you can transfer
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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FAQ's
What is the best time to do the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
The ideal time to undertake the trek is from May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is relatively pleasant, and the views are clear.
What is the difficulty level of the trek?
The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is considered a moderate to difficult trek, suitable for trekkers with good physical fitness and some prior high-altitude trekking experience. The steep ascents, uneven terrains, and high altitude make it challenging.
What is the age limit for the Gaumukh tapovan trek ?
The age limit for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek typically ranges from 16 to 60 years. However, this can vary slightly depending on the trekking company and the individual’s physical fitness. Trekkers under 18 usually require parental consent, and those above 50 may need to provide a treadmill test and fitness proof.
Since this trek is challenging and involves high-altitude trekking, participants of all ages must be in good health and physically fit to handle the demanding terrain and elevation.
What kind of food is available during the trek?
At Mountainiax, we provide home made vegetarian meals during the trek. Common items include rice, dal, chapati and vegetables.
Can we plan the trek itinerary according yo our convivence ?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary for the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek as per your request. However, to operate a private batch, the minimum group size should be 5 people. This ensures that the trek can be efficiently organized with personalized attention while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Is high altitude sickness a concern during the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek?
Yes, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can be an issue during the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek due to the high altitude. The trek reaches an elevation of around 14,640 feet (4,450 meters) at Tapovan, and the risk of AMS increases as you ascend to altitudes above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters).
However, Team Mountainiax professionals ensure your safety with proper management, acclimatization schedules, and first aid support throughout the trek. They monitor trekkers for signs of AMS and provide necessary assistance to prevent or manage altitude sickness effectively. In case of severe symptoms, immediate action, including descent or medical intervention, is taken to ensure the well-being of trekkers.
What is the maximum altitude?
The highest point reached during the trek is around 14,150 feet (4,300 meters) at Tapovan.
What are the highlights of the trek?
The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi, as well as the opportunity to experience the spiritual significance of the Ganges River.
Can I see wildlife on the trek?
Yes, the region is home to Himalayan wildlife like blue sheep, snow leopards (rare), and various bird species.
Are there mobile networks on the trek?
Mobile networks are available in Gangotri, but connectivity is limited or nonexistent during the trek. BSNL and Airtel may have occasional signals at higher altitudes.
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