Region
Uttarakhand
Trek Grade
Moderate
Trek Distance
41 Km
Highest Altitude
~14,600 ft
Overview
The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand, combining spirituality with Himalayan adventure. The trek takes you to Gaumukh Glacier, the origin of the sacred river Ganga, and then further to Tapovan meadow, a high-altitude grassland right at the base of the iconic Mt. Shivling. The journey passes through pine forests, the Bhagirathi River valley, and rocky moraine paths. With breathtaking views of peaks like Shivling, Bhagirathi I, II, III, and Mt. Meru, this trek is both visually stunning and deeply spiritual.
Short Itinerary – (7 Days / 6 Nights)
Day 1: Arrive in Gangotri, rest and acclimatize.
Day 2: Trek from Gangotri to Chirbasa (9 km).
Day 3: Trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (5 km).
Day 4: Trek from Bhojbasa to Gaumukh and then to Tapovan (9 km).
Day 5: Rest/Acclimatization day at Tapovan, explore the meadows and Shivling base.
Day 6: Trek back from Tapovan to Chirbasa (14 km).
Day 7: Trek from Chirbasa to Gangotri (9 km) and depart.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive at Gangotri, the base camp of the trek. This holy town is famous for the Gangotri temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Spend the evening exploring the temple and nearby market while letting your body adjust to the altitude. Night stay in a guesthouse/hotel.
The trek begins with a gradual walk along the Bhagirathi River. The trail passes through pine and deodar forests, with stunning views of Sudarshan Parbat. After steady trekking, you reach Chirbasa, known as “the abode of pines.” Camp overnight near the river.
A short and easy walk today. The trail continues alongside the river, gradually becoming more barren and rocky as you move higher. You reach Bhojbasa, a wide open campsite surrounded by mountains. Sunset views here are breathtaking. Overnight in tents/guesthouse.
Today is the most adventurous day. Trek to Gaumukh Glacier, the origin of the river Ganga. After spending some time here, continue climbing over steep moraine and glacier sections to reach Tapovan. The climb is challenging but rewarding with stunning views of Mt. Shivling and Bhagirathi peaks. Camp overnight in Tapovan meadow.
Spend the day soaking in the beauty of Tapovan. It is a serene meadow surrounded by towering peaks. Explore nearby areas, interact with sadhus (if present), and enjoy up-close views of Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi. Overnight stay in Tapovan.
Retrace your steps back from Tapovan to Bhojbasa and continue to Chirbasa. The descent is easier but needs caution on the glacier and moraine. Overnight stay in camps at Chirbasa.
Trek back from Chirbasa to Gangotri. After reaching, you can visit the Gangotri temple once again for blessings before departure. The trek ends here.
Inclusions – Everything We Take Care Of
- Accommodation during the trek (camps/guesthouses)
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee) during the trek
- Experienced trek leader and local guide
- Trek permits and entry fees
- First aid and medical kit
- Support staff for trek assistance
Exclusions – What’s Not Included?
- Transport from Haridwar/Rishikesh to destination (can be arranged on request)
- Personal expenses (snacks, bottled water, tips, etc.)
- Any kind of travel insurance
- Personal trekking gear (backpacks, trekking poles, jackets, etc.)
- Emergency evacuation or medical expenses
- Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions”
FAQs – We’ve Got All Your Questions Covered!
The trek starts from Gangotri town in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand.
It is a moderate to difficult trek because of steep climbs, glacier crossing, and moraine walking. Prior trekking experience helps.
The best time is May–June and September–October. Monsoons (July–August) should be avoided due to landslides and heavy rain.
The trek usually takes 6–7 days from Gangotri.
Yes, the trek falls under the Gangotri National Park, so a forest permit is needed. Trek operators usually arrange this.
In Gangotri, there are hotels/guesthouses. On the trek, accommodation is in tents or basic huts (ashrams) at Bhojbasa.
Yes, Tapovan offers one of the best views of Mt. Shivling, Bhagirathi Peaks, and Meru Peak.
2 sep to 30 sep
Tour Details
- Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
- Maximum Altitude: ~14,600 ft (Tapovan)
- Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult (steep climbs and glacier crossings)
- Best Time: May – June, September – October
Tour Highlights
- Visit the Gaumukh Glacier, the sacred source of the Ganga.
- Trek through Gangotri National Park, rich in flora and fauna.
- Spectacular views of Mt. Shivling, Bhagirathi peaks, and Mt. Meru.
- Experience the serenity of Tapovan meadows, a favorite spot for sages and mountaineers.
- Spiritual and adventurous journey starting from the holy town of Gangotri.
Route & Region
- Region: Gangotri National Park, Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand
- Base Camp: Gangotri
- Route: Gangotri – Chirbasa – Bhojbasa – Gaumukh – Tapovan – return same way