Gaumukh Gangotri Trek

Himalayan Trekking

Moderate

Gaumukh Gangotri Trek

Max Altitude

5 Days

34 Km

Uttrakhand

India

Overview

Trek Name: Gaumukh Gangotri Trek

Days: 5

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Gangotri

Season:Summer | Autumn |

Month:May | June | September | October |

Country: India

Altitude: 13400 Ft.

Grade: Moderate

Rail Head: Dehradun

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: 34 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 Gangotri to Gangotri
Base Camp Accommodation: Guest house stay with attached washroom (no bunk beds).
Complimentary cloakroom at base camp for safe storage.
Pickup & Drop Location: neares railway station
Pickup: 06:00 AM | Drop: 06:30–07:30 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
Drive Duration: 8–9 hours
Accommodation: Guest House

Day-2: Acclimatization Day at Gangotri

Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,200 ft
Accommodation: Guest House

Day-3: Gangotri to Bhojwasa

Altitude: 3,550 m / 12,500 ft
Trek Distance: 14 km | 8–9 hours
Accommodation: Tents

Day-4: Bhojwasa to Gaumukh and back to Chirbasa

Altitude: 13,400 ft to 11,700 ft
Trek Distance: 11 km | 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Tents

Day-5: Chirbasa to Gangotri – Drive to Dehradun

Trek Distance: 9 km | 4–5 hours
Drive Distance: 250 km | 9–10 hours

Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri

Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,200 ft
Drive Distance: 250 km
Drive Duration: 8–9 hours
Stay: Guest House

The journey begins from Dehradun early in the morning with a scenic drive towards Gangotri. The route passes through beautiful mountain landscapes and the famous hill station of Mussoorie, known as the “Queen of Hills”.

On the way you pass through Uttarkashi, a spiritual town located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River and home to the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Further ahead lies the picturesque village of Harsil surrounded by deodar forests and apple orchards.

By evening you reach Gangotri, one of the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites. After settling into your guest house you can visit the Gangotri Temple or spend time near the 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 reserved for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the high altitude. After breakfast you can take a short walk around Gangotri and explore nearby areas.

You may visit Surya Kund, a beautiful waterfall formed by the Bhagirathi River, and Pandav Gufa, a cave believed to be associated with the Pandavas from the Mahabharata.

Later you can visit the Gangotri Temple or explore the small local market. The rest of the day is kept relaxed so that you remain well-rested and prepared for the trek beginning the next day.

Day 3: Gangotri to Bhojwasa

Altitude: 3,550 m / 12,500 ft
Trek Distance: 14 km
Trek Duration: 8–9 hours
Stay: Tents

Today the trek begins as you follow the trail along the Bhagirathi River. The path gradually ascends through pine forests and offers beautiful views of the valley and surrounding peaks.

After several hours of trekking you reach Chirbasa, known for its chir pine trees. This is a common rest stop where trekkers take a break and hydrate before continuing the journey.

From Chirbasa the landscape becomes more open and rugged as trees become sparse. By afternoon you arrive at Bhojwasa where you settle into tents and enjoy the peaceful Himalayan surroundings.

Day 4: Bhojwasa to Gaumukh and back to Chirbasa

Altitude: 13,400 ft to 11,700 ft
Trek Distance: 11 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Stay: Tents

Today is the highlight of the trek as you visit Gaumukh, the source of the Bhagirathi River and the origin of the sacred Ganges. The trail continues beside the river with breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Gaumukh, meaning “Cow’s Mouth”, is named after the shape of the glacier’s snout. Here the massive Gangotri Glacier releases the waters that eventually form the Ganga River.

After spending some time at this sacred and beautiful location, you begin the descent towards Chirbasa. The evening is spent resting at the campsite surrounded by pine forests and mountain scenery.

Day 5: Chirbasa to Gangotri – Drive to Dehradun

Trek Distance: 9 km
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Drive Distance: 250 km
Drive Duration: 9–10 hours

The final day begins with a descent from Chirbasa back to Gangotri along the familiar trail. Since most of the route is downhill, the walk is easier and offers a chance to enjoy the forests and mountain views once again.

After reaching Gangotri you freshen up and begin the long drive back to Dehradun through Uttarkashi and the scenic Himalayan roads.

By evening you reach Dehradun, marking the end of the Gaumukh Gangotri trek with unforgettable memories of glaciers, rivers and the sacred Himalayas.

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 good level of physical fitness is required for the Gaumukh Gangotri trek. Trekkers should be in good health and prepared for several days of walking in the mountains.

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 group departures organized by NK Adventure. This allows you to trek with like-minded people and enjoy the journey safely.

Yes, there is a possibility of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) because the trek reaches high altitudes. Proper acclimatization, walking at a steady pace, and staying hydrated help reduce the risk. If you feel unwell, inform your trek leader immediately.

The Gaumukh Gangotri trek is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The trek begins from Gangotri and leads to Gaumukh, the source of the Bhagirathi River which later becomes the sacred Ganga.

Gaumukh is the snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the origin of the sacred Ganga River. The glacier’s shape resembles a cow’s mouth, which is why it is called Gaumukh. The trek also offers stunning views of peaks like Mount Meru and the Bhagirathi peaks.

The trek is considered moderate. It usually takes around 5 days and covers about 34 km. Trekkers walk through scenic trails including Chirbasa and Bhojwasa before reaching Gaumukh.

The best time for this trek is during May–June and September–October. The weather is generally stable during these months and the trails remain accessible.

Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri
Day 2: Acclimatization day at Gangotri
Day 3: Gangotri to Bhojwasa
Day 4: Bhojwasa to Gaumukh and return to Chirbasa
Day 5: Chirbasa to Gangotri and drive to Dehradun

Gaumukh is located at an altitude of approximately 13,400 ft. The trek gradually climbs from Gangotri through Chirbasa and Bhojwasa before reaching the glacier.

The trek can be completed in around 5 days, including travel from Dehradun to Gangotri and back.

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 helps 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 13,400 ft, trekkers should be aware of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

To avoid AMS:

Walk slowly and maintain a steady pace
Drink plenty of water
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Rest properly
Inform your trek leader if you feel unwell

Yes, permits are required as the trek lies within the Gangotri National Park area. When trekking with NK Adventure, all necessary permits and documentation are arranged by the team.

Gangotri Temple and the evening Ganga Aarti
The Gangotri Glacier and Gaumukh snout
Scenic campsites like Chirbasa and Bhojwasa
Views of Bhagirathi Peaks and Mount Meru

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 proper 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.