Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse : triple, quad, dormitory (separate for male and female)
Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg)
Location: Uttarakhand
Distance: 40 Km.
Trail Type: Point to point trail | Camping at the same location upon returning.
AirPort: Jolly Grant Airport, which is 28 km away from Dehradun
Highlights:
Services from Sankri to Janki Chatti.
Base Camp Accommodation: Home stay with attached washroom (no bunk beds).
Complimentary cloakroom at base camp for safe storage.
Pickup & Drop Location: Nearest Railway Station Pickup: 06:00 AM | Drop: 06:30 PM–07:30 PM (weather/road dependent) Keep a buffer day and arrive a day early to avoid delays.
Who Can Participate
Age Requirement:
Minimum 14 years
First-timers are welcome, though prior trekking experience is preferred. Good fitness is a must.
Fitness Criteria:
The Trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance by jogging in 30 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance in 70 minutes without stress
If the trekker prefers cycling he/ she should be able to cycle 18 km of distance in 50 minutes.
If the trekker wants to carry a backpack then he/she should be able to carry a 10-12 kg backpack. If opt Off-load option then the trekker should be able to carry 3-5 kg backpack.
If a trekker’s BMI is more or less than the normal range (18-27), please consult our Trek Coordinator before booking.
Itinerary
Day-1: Dehradun To Gangotri
Altitude: 3,100 m/ 10,200 ft.
Drive distance: 250 km (8-9 hours).
Day-2: Acclimatization Day at Gangotri
Altitude: 3,100 m/ 10,200 ft.
Post lunch can visit Gangotri Temple or go shopping.
Day-3: Gangotri To Chirbasa
Altitude: 3,550 m/ 11,700 ft.
Trek Distance: 9 km | 5-6 hours.
Day-4: Chirbasa To Bhojwasa
Altitude: 3,800 m/ 12,500 ft.
Trek Distance: 5 km | Duration: 3-4 hours.
Day-5: Bhojwasa To Tapovan
Altitude: Tapovan – 4,450 m/ 14,600 ft.
Trek Distance: 6 km| Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day-6: Tapovan To Bhojwasa via Gaumukh
Altitude: Bhojwasa – 3,800 m/ 12, 500 ft.
Trek Distance: 6 km | Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day-7: Bhojwasa To Gangotri
Altitude: 3,200 m/ 10,200 ft.
Trek Distance: 14 km | Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day-8: Depart For Dehradun
Gangotri to Dehradun Drive distance: 250 km (9-10 hrs)
After morning tea towards Dehradun.
Reach Dehradun by 5 to 6 Pm.
Note:
Keep a buffer day in your travel plan.
If buffer day is not used in the travel then it can be used to Explore Dehradun.
Distance, Altitude, and Trekking hours are approximate and rounded off.
Keep the original and copy of ID proof handy.
Come one day early if planning to come by plane.
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri
Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,200 ft
Drive Distance: 250 km | 9–10 hrs
Stay: Guest House
The journey begins early in the morning from Dehradun with a scenic drive through the beautiful valleys of Uttarakhand. The route passes through Mussoorie, Uttarkashi and the charming village of Harsil surrounded by deodar forests and apple orchards.
By evening you reach Gangotri, one of the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites. After checking into your guest house you may visit the Gangotri Temple or take a peaceful walk along the Bhagirathi River before resting for the night.
Day 2: Acclimatization Day at Gangotri
Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,200 ft
Stay: Guest House
This day is dedicated to acclimatization to help your body adjust to the altitude. After breakfast you can explore the sacred town of Gangotri and nearby locations.
Visit Bhagirath Shila, Surya Kund, and Gauri Kund waterfalls. You can also hike to Pandav Gufa, a cave associated with legends from the Mahabharata.
The rest of the day is spent relaxing, exploring the temple town, and preparing for the trekking journey beginning the next day.
Day 3: Gangotri to Chirbasa
Altitude: 3,550 m / 11,700 ft
Trek Distance: 9 km | 5–6 hrs
Stay: Tents
Today the trek begins as you enter Gangotri National Park. The trail follows the Bhagirathi River through forests of pine and rocky mountain slopes.
The trek gradually ascends and offers beautiful views of Sudarshan Parbat and surrounding Himalayan peaks. Streams and waterfalls along the trail provide refreshing stops.
By afternoon you reach Chirbasa, meaning “Abode of Pines”. The campsite offers stunning views of Bhagirathi peaks I, II and III.
Day 4: Chirbasa to Bhojwasa
Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,500 ft
Trek Distance: 5 km | 3–4 hrs
Stay: Tents
The trek today is shorter but the terrain becomes more rugged as the treeline gradually disappears. The landscape opens into vast rocky valleys with spectacular views of Bhagirathi peaks.
Bhojwasa is named after the Bhojpatra trees that once grew in the region. The campsite offers breathtaking views of the glacier valley and surrounding mountains.
Spend the evening resting and preparing for the next day’s highlight – the climb to Tapovan.
Day 5: Bhojwasa to Tapovan via Gaumukh
Altitude: 4,450 m / 14,600 ft
Trek Distance: 6 km | 7–8 hrs
Stay: Tents
Today is the most exciting day of the trek as you visit Gaumukh, the source of the Bhagirathi River and one of the most sacred glaciers in India.
After witnessing the glacier, the trail climbs steeply across rocky and glacial terrain towards Tapovan. The ascent is challenging but rewarding.
Tapovan is a beautiful high-altitude meadow offering breathtaking views of Mt. Shivling, Meru and Bhagirathi peaks. It also serves as a base camp for many mountaineering expeditions.
Day 6: Tapovan to Bhojwasa via Gaumukh
Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,500 ft
Trek Distance: 6 km | 5–6 hrs
Stay: Tents
After enjoying the stunning morning views at Tapovan, begin the descent towards Bhojwasa. The route passes again through Gaumukh and glacial terrain.
The descent requires careful footing due to loose rocks and uneven ground. The views of the glacier and surrounding peaks make the journey memorable.
Upon reaching Bhojwasa, relax at the campsite beside the Bhagirathi River.
Day 7: Bhojwasa to Gangotri
Altitude: 3,200 m / 10,200 ft
Trek Distance: 14 km | 6–7 hrs
Stay: Guest House
Today you retrace the trail back to Gangotri following the Bhagirathi River downstream through Chirbasa and forested sections of the valley.
The descent allows you to enjoy the landscapes once again while reflecting on the incredible journey through the Gangotri glacier region.
After reaching Gangotri, check into your guest house and enjoy a comfortable evening.
Day 8: Drive from Gangotri to Dehradun
Drive Distance: 250 km | 9–10 hrs
After breakfast you begin the return journey to Dehradun. The drive follows the scenic mountain roads through Uttarkashi and Mussoorie.
By evening you reach Dehradun, marking the end of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trek with unforgettable memories of glaciers, sacred rivers and majestic Himalayan landscapes.
Trek Essentials
Backpack with rain cover
(50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps
Day pack with rain cover
20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted)
Walking stick
Advisable (At least one)
Water Bottle / Hydration pack
2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask.
Small size tiffin/lunch box
1 Nos
Snacks
Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors
Personal Medical Kit
Consult your doctor
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)
1 Full & 2 Half sleeves
Fleece T-shirt
1 Nos
Fleece jacket
1 Nos
Windproof Jacket
1 Nos
Down feather / Hollow jacket
1 Nos
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)
1 Pair
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)
2 Nos
Fleece Pant
1 Nos
Waterproof gloves
1 Pair
Fleece / woollen gloves
1 Pair
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant
1 Nos
Head torch
1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch)
Sun Cap
1 Nos
Woolen cap
1 Nos.
Balaclava
1 Nos.
Buff / Neck-gaiters
1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen
Sunglasses
UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses
Trekking shoes
1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle, good grip)
Floaters / flip-flops
1 Pair
Cotton socks
6 pairs
Woollen socks
1 pairs
Gaiters
1 Pair (NK provides when required)
Micro spikes
1 Pair (NK provides when required)
Sunscreen
1 Nos
Moisturiser
1 Nos
Chap-stick / Lip balm
1 Nos
Toothbrush and toothpaste
1 Nos
Toilet paper & Wipes
1 Nos
Soap / hand sanitizers
1 Nos
Antibacterial powder
1 Nos
Quick dry towel
1 Nos
FAQs
A high level of physical fitness is required for the Gaumukh Tapovan trek. Participants should be in good health and prepared for several days of strenuous trekking in high-altitude terrain.
Accommodation during the trek usually consists of tents at designated campsites along the route. These camps provide basic shelter and facilities for trekkers.
Yes, solo trekkers can join fixed departures organized by NK Adventure. This allows you to trek safely with a group of like-minded travelers.
Yes, there is a possibility of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) due to the high altitude. Proper acclimatization, walking at a steady pace, and staying hydrated help reduce the risk. Inform your trek leader immediately if you experience symptoms.
The Gaumukh Tapovan trek is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The trek begins at Gangotri and leads to Gaumukh, the origin of the Bhagirathi River, and then continues to Tapovan, a high-altitude meadow.
Gaumukh is the snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the origin of the sacred Ganga River. The trek offers stunning views of majestic peaks such as Mount Shivling, Mount Meru, and the Bhagirathi peaks, along with the spiritual atmosphere of Gangotri.
The trek is considered moderate to difficult. It typically takes about 8 days and covers around 40 km. The trail includes glacier crossings, moraines, and steep ascents, especially while reaching Tapovan.
The best time to do the trek is during May–June and September–October.
May to June: Fresh mountain views after winter with blooming alpine flowers.
September to October: Clear skies and excellent mountain views after the monsoon.
Avoid July–August due to heavy monsoon rains and landslide risks. The trail usually closes after late October because of snowfall.
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri
Day 2: Acclimatization at Gangotri
Day 3: Gangotri to Chirbasa
Day 4: Chirbasa to Bhojwasa
Day 5: Bhojwasa to Tapovan
Day 6: Tapovan to Bhojwasa via Gaumukh
Day 7: Bhojwasa to Gangotri
Day 8: Return to Dehradun
Gaumukh is located at an altitude of approximately 14,600 ft. The trail gradually climbs from Gangotri through Chirbasa and Bhojwasa before reaching Gaumukh and Tapovan.
The complete itinerary takes about 8 days, including travel from Dehradun or Rishikesh to Gangotri and back.
Yes, Tapovan is located above Gaumukh and is a popular extension of the trek. The climb to Tapovan involves steep ascents over glacier moraines, but the reward is breathtaking views of Mount Shivling and Mount Meru.
If you can comfortably walk for 2–3 hours at a stretch and climb stairs without difficulty, you should be able to enjoy the trek. Regular walking, jogging, and stair climbing a few weeks before the trek will help build stamina.
Carry warm clothing, a raincoat or poncho, trekking shoes, woollen cap, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, and personal toiletries. A small backpack and waterproof pouch for electronics are also recommended.
Yes, altitude sickness can occur above 10,000 ft. Since Gaumukh is at 14,600 ft, trekkers should watch for symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.
To avoid AMS:
Walk slowly and maintain a steady pace
Drink plenty of water
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Take proper rest
Inform your guide if you feel unwell
Yes, trekking permits are required as the route lies inside Gangotri National Park. When trekking with NK Adventure, the team arranges all required permits and logistics.
Gangotri Temple and evening Ganga Aarti
Gangotri Glacier and Gaumukh snout
Scenic campsites like Chirbasa and Bhojwasa
Views of Shivling Peak, Mount Meru, and Bhagirathi peaks
The beautiful high-altitude meadow of Tapovan
No, camping is not allowed directly at the Gaumukh glacier snout because it lies in a protected and sacred area.
Toilet facilities are basic. Guesthouses in Gangotri have proper washrooms, while campsites usually have dry pit toilets or toilet tents. Carry personal toiletries and maintain hygiene during the trek.
Payment & Cancellation Policy:
When you have firmly decided to undertake the Tour with New Knight Adventure, you will need to book the trip with us. We must allocate enough time to prepare, obtain necessary documents and permits, and book hotels and Transport for the trip. 25% advance during the time of booking for confirmation 50% Amount one month prior of arrival in India 25% Amount to be one week prior of arrival in India
Cancellation Policy:
• If the cancellation is made 30 days before the tour starts, 25% of the full payment will be deducted and 75% will be refunded. • If the cancellation is made 20 days before the tour start, 35% of the full payment will be deducted and 65% will be refunded • If the cancellation is made 10 days before the tour start, 80% will be deducted and 20% will be refunded. • No refund is made if the trip is cancelled after the departure for Expedition. • No refund is made during the running tour. • The cost of travel permit or any other documentation charges will not be refundable
Note:New Knight Adventure do all the ground operations in advance (As soon as we received the confirmation request from the guest). We pay advance payment to all our vendors to ensure all the services that we promise with the guest.
HiHello 👋, welcome to NK Adventure (New Knight Adventure)
