Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

6N/7D Rishikesh → Uttarkashi → Gangotri Uttarakhand-Trek, Trek, Summer Trek, Adventure Trip, Spiritual Tour, Moderate Trek

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Overview

The Gaumukh Tapovan trek is one of the most spiritually enriching and visually stunning treks in the Indian Himalayas. Starting from Gangotri in Uttarakhand, the trail leads you to Gaumukh—the snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the sacred source of the Ganges River. From there, the trek ascends to Tapovan, a high-altitude meadow offering spectacular views of iconic peaks like Mt. Shivling and the Bhagirathi group. Ideal for both adventure seekers and pilgrims, this moderate to challenging trek blends natural beauty, glacier landscapes, and deep spiritual significance.

Short Itinerary

  • Day 1: Drive from Dehradun/Haridwar to Gangotri (approx. 10–12 hours)
  • Day 2: Acclimatization at Gangotri (mandatory for altitude adjustment)
  • Day 3: Trek from Gangotri to Bhojwasa (14 km / 5–6 hours)
  • Day 4: Trek from Bhojwasa to Gaumukh, then to Tapovan (9–10 km / 6–7 hours)
  • Day 5: Explore Tapovan and nearby peaks (optional acclimatization/rest day)
  • Day 6: Trek back from Tapovan to Bhojwasa
  • Day 7: Trek from Bhojwasa to Gangotri, then drive to Uttarkashi or continue to Dehradun

Tour Inclusions

  • Stay in guesthouses/hotels at Gangotri (on twin/triple sharing basis)
  • Tented accommodation during the trek (Bhojwasa & Tapovan)
  • Sleeping bags and sleeping mats provided during camping
  • All meals during the trek (usually vegetarian): Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, and Dinner
  • Hot beverages: tea/coffee/soup provided as per itinerary
  • Hygienic, simple trek food prepared by support staff
  • Certified local trek guide (experienced and trained in Himalayan terrain)
  • Trek leader and assistant guides (for group safety & coordination)
  • Porters/mules for carrying common supplies and camping gear
  • Support team for cooking and camp setup
  • Entry permits for Gangotri National Park
  • Forest camping charges
  • Wildlife/environmental fee (as per government rules)
  • Transport from Dehradun/Haridwar to Gangotri and back (shared vehicle or as per package)
  • All internal transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Quality trekking tents (shared basis – usually 2-3 people per tent)
  • Kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tents
  • Sleeping bags with liners and foam mats
  • Utensils, cutlery, and stove equipment for meals
  • First aid kit with oxygen cylinder (carried by guide/leader)
  • Basic mountaineering equipment (if required – ropes, crampons, etc.)
  • Trained staff for handling high-altitude sickness
  • Emergency evacuation support (mule/porter assistance; helicopter charges extra)
  • Orientation and briefing before the trek
  • Trek completion certificate (on request)
  • Waste disposal management (eco-friendly practices)

Tour Exclusions

  • Travel to and from Dehradun/Haridwar (your starting point)
  • Any private transport not included in the group itinerary
  • Emergency evacuation by helicopter (if required – charges apply)
  • Trekker's personal trekking gear Trekking shoes, jackets, gloves, poles, backpacks, etc. (Rental available separately, if needed)
  • Sleeping bags (if you prefer your own)
  • Rainwear and personal clothing
  • Travel insurance or high-altitude trekking insurance
  • Medical expenses, medicines, or hospital charges
  • Costs arising due to AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness) or injuries
  • Meals during transit or travel days (before/after trek)
  • Any snacks, energy bars, bottled drinks, mineral water, or personal food items
  • Tips to guides, porters, cooks (optional, but customary)
  • Charges for hot water, mobile charging, camera batteries, etc. at base camps (if applicable)
  • Laundry, phone calls, and other personal expenses
  • Extra charges if you are a non-Indian citizen (foreign nationals often pay a higher permit fee)
  • Additional permits if trek route changes or extends due to weather
  • Cost incurred due to change in itinerary because of landslides, weather, strikes, or natural calamities
  • Extra days stay due to acclimatization or delays
  • Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” list

Tour Policy

  • 1. Booking confirmation on advance payment
  • 2. Cancellation policy with applicable charges
  • 3. No refund for last-minute cancellations
  • 4. Itinerary subject to change due to weather or unforeseen events
  • 5. Travel insurance is recommended
  • 6. Client responsibility for personal belongings
  • 7. Respect local customs and traditions
  • 8. Follow guide instructions
  • 9. Package validity for specified dates only
  • 10. Disputes subject to jurisdiction of company location

Tour Cancellation Policy

  • 1. Free cancellation up to 7 days before departure
  • 2. 50% refund for cancellations made 3 to 6 days before departure
  • 3. No refund for cancellations less than 3 days before departure
  • 4. Cancellation request must be made in writing
  • 5. Cancellation charges may apply for partial services
  • 6. Non-refundable booking amount in some cases
  • 7. Rescheduling allowed subject to availability and charges
  • 8. Refunds processed within 15-20 business days
  • 9. No-show considered as cancellation with no refund
  • 10. Emergency cancellations handled on case-by-case basis

Your actual trek begins today with a moderately steep trail along the Bhagirathi River. The path passes through pine and deodar forests and gradually ascends above the tree line. You’ll cross Chirbasa (a small rest point) and walk on rocky, dusty terrain with dramatic views of the Bhagirathi peaks. Bhojwasa, named after the bhojpatra (birch) trees that once grew here, is a cold and windy open valley where you’ll camp. Stay: Campsite or GMVN hut at Bhojwasa., Highlights: Panoramic views, peaceful campsite, starry night skies.

This is the most dramatic and spiritually significant day of the trek. First, you'll reach Gaumukh, the snout of the Gangotri Glacier, where the Bhagirathi (Ganga) river begins. It’s a revered site for Hindus. From Gaumukh, the trail becomes more technical and challenging as you cross moraines, loose rocks, and icy sections to reach Tapovan. The effort is rewarded by breathtaking views of Mt. Shivling (6,543 m), Bhagirathi I, II, III, and Mount Meru. Tapovan is a serene alpine meadow often used by sages and trekkers alike for meditation and camping. Stay: Camping in Tapovan., Highlights: Glaciers, towering peaks, dramatic landscape, high-altitude grasslands.

This optional rest day helps your body recover and adjust to the high altitude. You can explore nearby areas like the Shivling Base Camp, Neel Tal, or just enjoy the spiritual stillness of the meadow. Photographers and nature lovers will cherish this day — the lighting on the peaks during sunrise and sunset is spectacular. Stay: Camping in Tapovan., Purpose: Acclimatization, rest, photography, spiritual experience.

Today, you descend back the same route you climbed earlier. Crossing the glacier again requires balance and care. The downward path is faster but still physically demanding, especially on the knees. Upon reaching Bhojwasa, you can relax after a long day. Stay: Campsite or GMVN hut at Bhojwasa.
Highlights: Last views of Mt. Shivling, return to lower altitude.

The final trek leg takes you back to Gangotri along the same 14 km trail. Once you reach Gangotri, you can either rest or begin your return journey to Uttarkashi or Dehradun depending on your plan. Many trekkers prefer to stay one night in Uttarkashi to break the journey.
Purpose: Completion of the trek and return to base.

Clothing & Footwear:

  • 1. Comfortable cotton clothes
  • 2. Modest attire for temple visits
  • 3. Comfortable walking shoes
  • 4. Sunhat or cap
  • 5. Sunglasses
  • 6. Light jacket or shawl for evenings
  • 7. Footwear easy to remove for temple visits
  • 8. Rain protection during monsoon

Personal Essentials:

  • 1. Valid ID proof
  • 2. Travel documents and tickets
  • 3. Personal medications
  • 4. Mobile phone and charger
  • 5. Cash and cards
  • 6. Sunscreen
  • 7. Hand sanitizer
  • 8. Toiletries
  • 9. Water bottle
  • 10. Small first aid kit

Medical & First Aid Kit:

  • 1. Basic pain relievers
  • 2. Antiseptic cream
  • 3. Band-aids
  • 4. Allergy medicines
  • 5. Digestive aids
  • 6. Motion sickness tablets
  • 7. Thermometer
  • 8. Prescription medicines if any
  • 9. Hydration salts
  • 10. Insect repellent

₹75,000

₹7,800 per person*

*Excluding applicable taxes

28% OFF
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FAQ Regarding This Trek

It is a high-altitude Himalayan trek in Uttarakhand that takes you to Gaumukh (the snout of the Gangotri Glacier, source of the Ganga River) and Tapovan, a beautiful alpine meadow offering panoramic views of Mt. Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks.

Typically 6 to 8 days, including travel, acclimatization, trekking, and return.

It is rated moderate to challenging. The terrain includes glacier crossings, rocky moraines, and steep ascents, especially from Gaumukh to Tapovan.

The ideal seasons are: Summer: May to mid-June, Post-monsoon: September to mid-October
Avoid the monsoon (July–August) due to landslides and slippery terrain.

The highest point is Tapovan at around 4,463 meters (14,640 feet).

Yes, permits are required to enter the Gangotri National Park. You can obtain them from the forest department in Uttarkashi or Gangotri. An identity proof is necessary.

Fit beginners with strong determination and some prior trekking or hiking experience can attempt it. However, due to the altitude and glacier terrain, good physical preparation is essential.

Hotels and guesthouses (carry or arrange through trek organizers).

While not mandatory, it’s strongly recommended to hire a local guide and porter, especially due to glacier navigation and changing weather conditions. Solo treks can be risky.

Essential items are Warm layers (thermal, fleece, down jacket), Waterproof jacket and pants, Trekking shoes, Backpack & rain cover, Sleeping bag (if camping), Sunglasses, sunscreen, woolen cap, gloves, First aid kit & altitude sickness medicine, Trekking pole and headlamp

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