Drive Distance: ~240-250 km

Time Taken: 9-10 hours drive

Elevation Change: Dehradun (~2,100 ft) to Gangotri (~10,200 ft)

An early start from Dehradun as we embark on a long but incredibly scenic drive. The road winds through the Garhwal hills, offering glimpses of the increasing mountain grandeur. We arrive in Gangotri, a bustling pilgrimage town. Settle into our stay, visit the sacred Gangotri Temple if time permits, and let the high-altitude air begin its acclimatization work.

Trek Distance: ~9 km

Time Taken: 4-5 hours

Elevation Change: Gangotri (~10,200 ft) to Chirbasa (~11,700 ft)

Our first steps on the trail today! We'll pass through the Forest Department check-post (permits checked here) and begin a gradual ascent alongside the roaring Bhagirathi River. The path is well-defined, winding through dense deodar and pine forests. Keep an eye out for waterfalls and streams along the way. We reach Chirbasa, named for its 'chir' (pine) trees, a peaceful campsite by the river.

Trek Distance: ~5 km

Time Taken: 2-3 hours

Elevation Change: Chirbasa (~11,700 ft) to Bhojbasa (~12,400 ft)

Today's trek is shorter, allowing for better acclimatization. The landscape gradually shifts from dense forests to a more barren, rugged terrain, scattered with Bhojpatra (birch) trees. You'll gain spectacular initial views of the majestic Bhagirathi mountain range. We'll set up camp at Bhojbasa, enjoying the vast open skies and the dramatic mountain backdrop, a perfect spot for photography as sunset bathes the peaks in golden light.

Trek Distance: ~8-9 km

Time Taken: 6-7 hours

Elevation Change: Bhojbasa (~12,400 ft) to Gaumukh (~13,400 ft) to Tapovan (~14,600 ft)

This is the big day! We start early by crossing the pulley system across, first making our way to Gaumukh, the legendary snout of the Gangotri Glacier. Witnessing the Bhagirathi River emerge from the ice cave is a truly profound and unforgettable moment. From Gaumukh, the trail becomes more challenging, traversing glacial moraine and requiring careful navigation. A steep climb up a rocky face leads to Tapovan, an incredible high-altitude meadow. Prepare to be awestruck by the close-up, panoramic views of Mt. Shivling, Bhagirathi peaks, and Mt. Meru that greet you at this stunning campsite.

Trek Distance: ~5-6 km (exploration + return)

Time Taken: 5-6 hours

Elevation Change: Tapovan (~14,600 ft) to Meru Glacier (~15,500-16,000 ft) and back to Tapovan (~14,600 ft)

Wake up to a surreal sunrise over Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks. We'll spend the morning exploring the vast meadows of Tapovan, potentially trekking to a viewpoint for even more incredible vistas. The highlight of the morning will be a significant exploration to the Meru Glacier – a challenging but rewarding push further into the glacial heartland, offering a raw, untouched perspective of the high Himalayas. Soak in the solitude and the spiritual energy of this place.

Trek Distance: ~14 km

Time Taken: 6-8 hours

Elevation Change: Tapovan (~14,600 ft) to Chirbasa (~11,700 ft)

Though long, but an easy descent to Chirbasa. Traverse the same path we took, eat our lunch on the way and head to Chirbasa for the evening snacks. We relax as it was a long descent and spend time by the river.

The next day becomes much shorter so we get time to explore Gangotri, Surya Kund, ancient caves and a muesuem in Gangotri.

Trek Distance: ~9 km

Time Taken: 5-6 hours

Elevation Change: Chirbasa (~11,600 ft) to Gangotri (~10,200 ft)

A short descent today, as we make our way back to Gangotri. We'll pass through a temple again, enjoying the familiar forest trails. The steady downhill walk allows for reflection on the incredible journey experienced. By afternoon, we arrive back in Gangotri, marking the end of the trekking portion. You'll enjoy the comforts of a guesthouse and a well-deserved hot meal.

Drive Distance: ~240-250 km

Time Taken: 9-10 hours drive

Elevation Change: Gangotri (~10,200 ft) to Dehradun (~2,100 ft)

After breakfast, we begin the long drive back to Dehradun. The winding mountain roads will seem different now, filled with the fresh memories of glaciers, sacred rivers, and towering peaks. We aim to reach Dehradun by late evening around 6-7pm.

Plan your travel back the next day

Gaumukh Tapovan is a significant high-altitude trek. We expect you to show up with an open mind, ready for anything the mountains throw at us – flexibility and resilience are key. Be part of the team, share a laugh, maybe lend a hand, especially in challenging sections. Respect the incredible nature around us (seriously, Leave No Trace is non-negotiable), and the local spiritual and cultural significance of this region. Your positive vibe makes the whole trip better for everyone.

This is a moderate to challenging trek. Trekkers should be comfortable walking 8-10 km daily on varied and often rugged terrain, including steep ascents, descents, and glacial moraine. Possess excellent general strength, practice mobility exercises, and maintain a highly active lifestyle. A minimum of 3 months of consistent, focused training leading up to the trek is an absolute must. This should include cardiovascular endurance (running, cycling, swimming), strength training targeting your core and lower body, and ideally, some practice hikes with a loaded backpack on varied inclines. Prior high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended.

We’ve got your back. Once you’re in, we’ll send you a detailed progressive fitness plan custom-built for this challenging trek, focusing on building the specific endurance and strength you'll need. You’ll get a super detailed gear checklist – no guesswork on what to pack for high altitude. Our experienced trek leaders will jump on pre-trek calls to answer all your questions, give you the lowdown on altitude acclimatization, and share essential trail wisdom. Plus, we set up a WhatsApp group so you’ve got direct access to our team for anything you need, anytime.

Your adventure officially kicks off in Dehradun. We’ll arrange pick-ups from a central spot, usually from your hotel in Dehradun , early on Day 1 (around 5:00-5:30 AM). From there, our vehicle will take you on a long but scenic 9-10 hour drive through the winding Garhwal Himalayas, directly to Gangotri, our trek base.

The best times are May to June (pre-monsoon summer) and September to October (post-monsoon autumn).
May-June: Days are generally pleasant (10∘C to 20∘C), but nights at higher camps can be chilly (0∘C to 5∘C). You'll likely encounter snow on the trail, especially in May, melting to lush greenery by June. Carry good rain gear as pre-monsoon showers are possible.
September-October: Offers crisp, clear skies and excellent mountain views, with comfortable days (5∘C to 15∘C) and colder nights (down to −5∘C or colder at Tapovan). The autumn colors can be stunning.
Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) due to heavy rains, landslides, and difficult trail conditions, and winter (November-April) due to heavy snowfall and extreme cold which makes the route inaccessible.

We provide wholesome, energizing, and primarily vegetarian meals suited for high-altitude trekking. This includes hot breakfasts (e.g., parathas, poha, dosas), packed lunches for the trail (chapatis with sabzi, sandwiches, fruits), and hot, hearty dinners at camp (dal, rice, mixed vegetables, soup). Expect plenty of hot tea/coffee and soup to keep you warm and hydrated. We focus on fresh, nutritious ingredients to keep you fueled.

You'll receive a detailed checklist, but key items include: a sturdy 40-60L backpack, waterproof and high-ankle trekking shoes with excellent grip, multiple warm layers (thermals, fleece jackets, a heavy insulated/down jacket), a waterproof outer shell, a headlamp with extra batteries, trekking poles (essential!), personal first-aid and medicines, and at least 2 liters of water carrying capacity. Don't forget high-quality sunglasses, a warm cap, and insulated gloves. Layering is critical.

In Gangotri, you'll find basic hotel/guesthouse washrooms. Once on the trail, we operate on a "Leave No Trace" principle. We set up private dry pit toilet tents at campsites. You'll need to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Water for basic washing will be available, but don't expect running water or hot showers beyond Gangotri. Minimal impact on the environment is our priority

Yes, to reach Tapovan from Gaumukh, you will need to traverse a section of the Gangotri Glacier, which is primarily moraine-filled (loose rocks, boulders, scree) rather than pure ice. This section can be challenging due to uneven terrain, loose footing, and potential small glacial streams or crevasses depending on the season. Our experienced guides will lead you safely, ensuring proper foot placement and technique. It requires focus and a good level of fitness.
But the steep climb to Tapovan is the most challenging part of the trek with occasional rock falls. We will give you safety helmets.

All nights on the trek (from Day 2 onwards) will be in our high-quality, sturdy dome tents, typically on a twin-sharing basis. We provide comfortable sleeping bags and insulating mattresses designed for high-altitude conditions. For your peace of mind, trek insurance is included in your package! This covers high-altitude evacuation and medical emergencies, providing essential safety net in the remote mountains.

No, once you cross Gangotri Checkpost, you will lose network.