About Gomukh Tapovan Trek
The Sacred River Ganges is the most sanctified river according to
Hindu faith. Gaumukh (Cow's mouth), the point from where the Ganges
originates, is hence considered as one of the most divine spots for
Hindu devotees. The water that flows in Gangotri is termed as the purest
to be used in religious ceremonies. The trek takes the tourists to the
Gaumukh Glacier, which is believed to be the source of Ganga River.
Gaumukh Trek includes 12 days of trekking in the splendid Garhwal Himalayan Ranges. Gangotri at an elevation of 3159m (10365) feet is in a remarkable setting marking the convergence of Kedar ravine and the sacred Bhagirathi River. The route of the trek passes through the verdant jungles and the lovely pastures. The area has many significant Hindu pilgrimage spots. Best months to trek in Gangotri are May, June and then September to October.
Sources of Ganges Tour Highlights
- Spectacular views of Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks
- Gangotri Temples
- Hike from Bhojwassa to Gaumukh and the source of the Ganges
- Snout of Gomukh Glacier
- Rishikesh and the Ganga Aarti Ceremony
- Remote Villages of Uttarakhand
- Nights in Hotel/Guest House
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit Gomukh Tapovan is in summers (May – June) and Post monsoon (September - October).In summers: The weather of Gangotri remains salubrious during summers. The Himalayan range is distinctly visible. Carrying woolens is advised.
In monsoons: The greenery of Gomukh Tapovan welcomes the tourist to lose oneself into the wilderness of nature. Enjoy the gazing at the snow capped peaks at Tapovan. There are chances of getting roads blocked for few hours due to landslides but the scenic beauty of Gomukh Tapovan during monsoons is worth taking the risk for. Carrying raincoats is advised.
After Post monsoon: The region gets blanketed in snow during the winter season and the accommodation options are also restricted to few. But Gomukh and Tapovan looks the best during winters and indeed the trek becomes more difficult. Carrying heavy woolens is advised.
Where is the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
Gangotri is situated at an altitude of 3,048mts above sea level in the Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand state. Gaumukh is situated about 18kms from Gangotri, whereas Tapovan is located at a distance of 9kms from Gaumukh.How to Reach?
By Air: Jolly Grant is the nearest airport to Gangotri, which is situated at a distance of 315kms. Jolly Grant Airport is well connected to Delhi with regularly operating flights. Gangotri is well connected by motorable roads with Jolly Grant Airport.By Rail: The nearest railway station to Gangotri is Rishikesh, which is 295kms away from Gangotri. Trains to Rishikesh are available from various cities in India.
By Road: Gangotri is well connected by motorable roads with major destinations of Uttarakhand like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkashi etc.
Sources of Ganges (Gomukh Tapovan Trek) (Detailed Itinerary)
Day 01: Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh
In the morning, take an AC train for Haridwar at 06:50 hrs. After arriving in Haridwar meet our guide who will help you reach Rishikesh and check into your hotel. Evening time is free for leisure activities. Overnight stay at the hotel.Day 02: Rishikesh - Uttarkashi (170 kms/ 4-5 hrs)
After the breakfast, we will drive for Uttarkashi, which will take around 7-8 hours to reach. On arriving at Uttarkashi, you will be transferred to the pre-booked hotel. Evening time is reserved for local sightseeing. Dinner and overnight stay will be at hotel.Day 03: Uttarkashi - Gangotri (3048 m/ 10,000 ft) Drive (95 kms)
Today, early in the morning, we will proceed to Gangotri via Harsil (approx 25 km). On arrival, check-in to the hotel and overnight stay.Day 04: Gangotri - Bhojwassa (3792 mts/12440 ft) 13 kms trek/5-6 hrs)
After the breakfast, we shall proceed to Bhojwassa via Chirbasa. We will trek along the roaring Bhagirathi River to reach Chirbasa. From Chirbasa, we will trek further to Bhojwassa via a dense forest. Arrive Bhojwassa and camp on the riverside. Afternoon is free to explore the area and to enjoy sunset over the Bhagirathi group of peaks. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.Day 05: Bhojwassa - Gomukh (3890 mts/12760 ft) - Tapovan (4463 mts / 14640 ft)
Today, after the breakfast, we will proceed to Gomukh (3890mt), the source of the Ganges. After exploring Gomukh, we will further head to Tapovan. Tapovan is a large meadow that is adorned with streams and wildflowers. Herds of Bharal (blue mountain goats) are a common sight from here on mountain ridges. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the camp.Day 06: Tapovan (4463 mts / 14640 ft)
The day will be kept free for relaxing. Explore the Kirti & Meru Glacier. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp.Day 07: Tapovan - Bhojwassa (Trek 4-5 hrs)
Early morning enjoy the sunrise over the high peaks. After the breakfast, trek down to Bhojwassa. Arrive Bhojwassa and camp. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp.Day 08: Bhojwassa - Gangotri (Trek 4-5 hrs) – Uttarkashi (95 kms/4 hrs)
After the breakfast, trek down to Gangotri and from there drive to Uttarkashi. On arrival, check-in to the hotel. Overnight stay in the hotel.Day 09: Uttarkashi - Haridwar – Delhi
In the morning after the breakfast, drive to Haridwar and from there; catch AC Train for Delhi at 18:05 hrs. Arrival at Delhi by 22:45 hrs.Tour & Services End.
Things to Carry
- Windproof jacket
- Warm and thick Fleece / Full-sleeve
- Woolen sweater
- Thermal inner wear (upper & lower)
- Woolen cap, Woolen gloves
- Woolen socks and regular socks (3-4 pairs)
- Scarf/muffler (optional)
- Comfortable Trekking/Hiking shoes
- Lightweight floaters/sandals/slippers
- Raincoat / Poncho
- Small light weight towel
- Sturdy Water bottle
- Cap / Hat
- Sun glasses
- Walking stick / Trekking pole
- Sunscreen Lotion
- Lip Balm
- Torch / Flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Personal medications
- Personal toiletries
