About Gomukh Tapovan Trek
The Sacred River Ganges is the most sanctified river according to Hindu
faith. Gaumukh (Cow’s mouth), the point from where the Ganges originates, is
hence considered as one of the most divine spots for Hindu devotees. The water
that flows in Gangotri is termed as the purest to be used in religious
ceremonies. The trek takes the tourists to the Gaumukh Glacier, which is
believed to be the source of Ganga River.
Gaumukh Trek includes 12 days of trekking in the splendid Garhwal
Himalayan Ranges. Gangotri at an elevation of 3159m (10365) feet is in a
remarkable setting marking the convergence of Kedar ravine and the sacred
Bhagirathi River. The route of the trek passes through the verdant jungles and
the lovely pastures. The area has many significant Hindu pilgrimage spots. Best
months to trek in Gangotri are May, June and then September to October.
Sources of Ganges Tour Highlights
·
Spectacular views of Shivling and the
Bhagirathi peaks
·
Gangotri Temples
·
Hike from Bhojwassa to Gaumukh and
the source of the Ganges
·
Snout of Gomukh Glacier
·
Rishikesh and the Ganga Aarti
Ceremony
·
Remote Villages of Uttarakhand
·
Nights in Hotel/Guest House
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit Gomukh Tapovan is in summers (May – June) and Post
monsoon (September – October).
In summers:
The weather of Gangotri remains salubrious during summers. The Himalayan
range is distinctly visible. Carrying woolens is advised.
In monsoons:
The greenery of Gomukh Tapovan welcomes the tourist to lose oneself into
the wilderness of nature. Enjoy the gazing at the snow capped peaks at Tapovan.
There are chances of getting roads blocked for few hours due to landslides but
the scenic beauty of Gomukh Tapovan during monsoons is worth taking the risk
for. Carrying raincoats is advised.
After Post monsoon:
The region gets blanketed in snow during the winter season and the
accommodation options are also restricted to few. But Gomukh and Tapovan looks
the best during winters and indeed the trek becomes more difficult. Carrying
heavy woolens is advised.
Where is the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
Gangotri is situated at an altitude of 3,048mts above sea level in the
Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand state. Gaumukh is situated about 18kms from
Gangotri, whereas Tapovan is located at a distance of 9kms from Gaumukh.
DAY 1 Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh
In the morning, take an AC train for Haridwar at 06:50 hrs. After arriving in Haridwar meet our guide who will help you reach Rishikesh and check into your hotel. Evening time is free for leisure activities. Overnight stay at the hotel.
DAY 2 Rishikesh - Uttarkashi (170 kms/ 4-5 hrs)
After
the breakfast, we will drive for Uttarkashi, which will take around 7-8 hours
to reach. On arriving at Uttarkashi, you will be transferred to the pre-booked
hotel. Evening time is reserved for local sightseeing. Dinner and overnight
stay will be at hotel.
DAY 3 Uttarkashi - Gangotri (3048 m/ 10,000 ft) Drive (95 kms)
Today,
early in the morning, we will proceed to Gangotri via Harsil (approx 25 km). On
arrival, check-in to the hotel and overnight stay.
DAY 4 Gangotri - Bhojwassa (3792 mts/12440 ft) 13 kms trek/5-6 hrs)
After
the breakfast, we shall proceed to Bhojwassa via Chirbasa. We will trek along
the roaring Bhagirathi River to reach Chirbasa. From Chirbasa, we will trek
further to Bhojwassa via a dense forest. Arrive Bhojwassa and camp on the
riverside. Afternoon is free to explore the area and to enjoy sunset over the
Bhagirathi group of peaks. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
DAY 5 Bhojwassa - Gomukh (3890 mts/12760 ft) - Tapovan (4463 mts / 14640 ft)
Today,
after the breakfast, we will proceed to Gomukh (3890mt), the source of the
Ganges. After exploring Gomukh, we will further head to Tapovan. Tapovan is a
large meadow that is adorned with streams and wildflowers. Herds of Bharal
(blue mountain goats) are a common sight from here on mountain ridges. Dinner
and overnight stay will be at the camp.
DAY 6 Tapovan (4463 mts / 14640 ft)
The
day will be kept free for relaxing. Explore the Kirti & Meru Glacier.
Dinner and overnight stay at the camp.
DAY 7 Tapovan - Bhojwassa (Trek 4-5 hrs)
Early
morning enjoy the sunrise over the high peaks. After the breakfast, trek down
to Bhojwassa. Arrive Bhojwassa and camp. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp.
DAY 8 Bhojwassa - Gangotri (Trek 4-5 hrs) – Uttarkashi (95 kms/4 hrs)
After
the breakfast, trek down to Gangotri and from there drive to Uttarkashi. On
arrival, check-in to the hotel. Overnight stay in the hotel.
DAY 9 Uttarkashi - Haridwar – Delhi
In
the morning after the breakfast, drive to Haridwar and from there; catch AC
Train for Delhi at 18:05 hrs. Arrival at Delhi by 22:45 hrs.