Experience the spiritual allure and rugged beauty of the Himalayas on this exhilarating 12-day trekking expedition.
Tour Overview
Beginning in Delhi, you’ll journey to Haridwar, the gateway to the sacred Ganges River, where you’ll witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony. Trek through Uttarkashi, an adventure hub, and visit the renowned Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. Your trail continues to Gangotri, the holy origin of the Ganges, where you’ll soak in the divine atmosphere and participate in puja at Gangotri Temple. Trekking towards Bhojbasa, you’ll marvel at the stunning vistas of Shivling and Bhairathi mountains.
An excursion to Gaumukh, the source of the Ganges, offers a chance to connect with spiritual pilgrims and serene sadhus. Traverse the challenging terrain to reach Tapovan, an idyllic high-altitude meadow offering panoramic views of Shivling, Meru, and Bhaghirathi peaks. Spend leisure time exploring or opt for a trek to Kirti Bamak, the Base of Kedar Dome. The journey takes you back through Chirbasa, Gangotri, and Uttarkashi before concluding in Rishikesh, where you’ll visit ashrams and witness the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti.
Your adventure ends with a return to Delhi, enriched by the serenity and grandeur of the Himalayas.
Gangotri Trek – Uttarakhand Himalayas
Best Season for trekking : May, June and September
Total Duration: 12 Days
Trekking days: 6
Trek grade: Easy to moderate
Max altitude: 4460 m
Destinations Covered
Delhi: Start your journey in the vibrant capital city of India, where ancient history blends seamlessly with modernity. Explore historic landmarks like India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar, while also experiencing the bustling markets and cultural diversity that define Delhi.
Haridwar: This sacred city on the banks of the Ganges River is a spiritual haven for pilgrims. Witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti on the ghats and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of ashrams and temples.
Uttarkashi: A gateway to adventure, Uttarkashi is known for its picturesque landscapes and serves as the starting point for your trek. Visit the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering and soak in the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Gangotri: The holy source of the Ganges River, Gangotri is a revered pilgrimage site. Participate in puja at Gangotri Temple and take in the awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding mountains.
Bhojbasa: As you trek towards Bhojbasa, you’ll witness the rugged beauty of the Gangotri Glacier and the majestic Shivling and Bhairathi peaks. The serene Alpine-style tents offer a rustic yet comfortable retreat.
Gaumukh: The source of the Ganges, Gaumukh is a captivating destination where you’ll interact with pilgrims and sadhus while surrounded by the raw beauty of the glacier and the mountains.
Tapovan: A high-altitude meadow with breathtaking views, Tapovan offers a chance to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Himalayas. The panoramic vistas of Shivling, Meru, and Bhaghirathi peaks create a mesmerizing backdrop.
Chirbasa: Nestled beside the Bhagirathi River, Chirbasa provides a peaceful setting for reflection and relaxation as you wind down from your trek.
Rishikesh: This spiritual town on the banks of the Ganges River is known for its yoga and meditation centers. Visit ashrams, attend Ganga Aarti, and experience the tranquility that attracts seekers from around the world.
Detailed Tour Plan
Day 01: Arrive Delhi – You will be met on arrival and transfer to your hotel for the night.
Day 02: Delhi – Haridwar – Transfer to New Delhi railway station early in the morning. Met on arrival at Haridwar railway station and transfer to your hotel (The hotel is located close to Ganges ghats. The approach to the hotel is through narrow lane where the vehicle cannot go. So you will reach the hotel on cycle rickshaw. The hotel offers vegetarian food only and there is no bar)(Haridwar is the city of temples, ashrams, ghats and sage. According to Hindu mythology, Haridwar is believed to be one of the seven holiest places) Witness the ceremonial Worship with oil lamp (Aarti) on the ghats of the Ganges.
Day 03: Haridwar – Uttarkashi – Drive to Uttarkashi in the morning. Stay in the resort for a night. Uttarkashi is the last major town in the Gangotri valley. En route, you can visit Nehru Institute of Mountaineering – a premier training institute for mountaineering and other adventure sports at Uttarkashi.
Day 04: Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Drive to Gangotri in the morning (Gangotri is the starting points for Gaumukh trek. Here you will meet your trekking crew and proters). Stay overnight in a guest house. In the evening, witness the puja and aarti at Gangotri temple – one of the four sacred dhams for Hindu in the Himalayas.
Day 05: Gangotri – Bhojbasa – Start your first day of trek to Bhojbasa. The trek to Bhojbasa follows the right bank of Bhagirathi (Ganges) over beaten trail. From Bhojbasa, you get the first view of majestic Shivling and Bhairathi group of mountains. Beyond Bhojbasa, the terrain becomes really desolate and barren. Overnight stay in simple Alpine style tents.
Day 06: Bhojbasa – Enjoy excursion to Gaumukh today. ‘The Source of Ganges’ – literally meaning ‘Cow’s Mouth’, Gaumukh is snout of Gangotri glacier from where Ganga emerges. From Gaumukh, the scene is fascinating, with praying pilgrims and half-naked sadhus meditating along the banks of the tumultuous stream that pours out of the Gangotri glacier.
Day 07: Bhojbasa – Tapovan – Today is probably the toughest day of this trek. From Gaumukh the trail leaves its way through the terminal moraine before cutting across the Gangotri glacier and climbing steeply up to the grassy slopes to Tapovan (4400 m / 14432 ft). Tapovan is a large high altitude meadow, furrowed with streams and scattered with flowers. It offers the panoramic view of Shivling (6543 m / 21460 ft), Meru (6450 m / 21156 ft) and the Bhaghirati-1 (6856 m / 22488 ft).
Day 08: Tapovan – Day at leisure to explore the area. You may choose to an optional full day trek to Kirti Bamak – Base of Kedar Dome (6830 m / 22402 ft).
Day 09: Tapovan – Chirbasa – Trek back to Bhojbasa and continue further to Chirbasa – a grassy meadow beside the Bhagirathi (Ganges) for overnight stay.
Day 10: Chirbasa – Gangotri – Uttarkashi – Trek back to Gangotri and drive to Uttarkashi. Stay overnight in a resort / guest house.
Day 11: Uttarkashi – Rishikesh – Drive to Rishikesh in the morning. Stay in a hotel for the night. Visit ashrams and also witness the Ganga Aarti in the evening.
Day 12: Rishikesh – Delhi – Drive to Delhi in the morning. Check into a hotel for wash/change. Later in the night you will be transferred to international airport for your flight to next destination.
End of Tour
FAQs about the Tour
What is the duration of this tour?
Answer: The tour spans over 12 days, allowing you to explore the spiritual and natural wonders of the Himalayan region.
How physically demanding is the trek to Gaumukh and Tapovan?
Answer: The trek to Gaumukh and Tapovan involves moderate to challenging levels of physical activity. It includes uphill climbs and rugged terrain. Proper fitness preparation and acclimatization are recommended.
What is the significance of Ganga Aarti in Haridwar and Rishikesh?
Answer: Ganga Aarti is a mesmerizing ritual of worshiping the Ganges River. It involves lamps, prayers, and devotional songs. Witnessing this ritual is believed to cleanse the soul and bring spiritual upliftment.
Are vegetarian meals available throughout the tour?
Answer: Yes, the tour primarily offers vegetarian meals, in line with the cultural and spiritual ethos of the destinations. Non-vegetarian options may not be available in certain places.
What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
Answer: Accommodations range from hotels in urban areas to guest houses and tents during the trekking portion. These accommodations provide comfort and basic amenities.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Answer: Yes, the tour is open to solo travelers who are physically fit and interested in experiencing the spiritual and natural beauty of the Himalayan region.
Can I participate in the trek even if I have limited trekking experience?
Answer: Some trekking experience is recommended, as the trail involves varying levels of difficulty. It’s advisable to be in good physical condition and consult a medical professional before embarking on the trek.
Is there any free time for personal exploration during the tour?
Answer: Yes, the itinerary includes leisure time in certain destinations, allowing you to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture, visit nearby attractions, or simply relax.
Are there any age restrictions for the tour?
Answer: While there are no strict age restrictions, participants should be in good health and physically capable of undertaking trekking activities.