The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is indeed a captivating journey that takes you to the source of the River Ganga. The trek begins from Gangotri Temple, a sacred place for Hindus, and leads to the Gaumukh, which is the snout of the Ganga River.
Breif Description Of The Program : The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is indeed a captivating journey that takes you to the source of the River Ganga.
The trek begins from Gangotri Temple, a sacred place for Hindus, and leads to the Gaumukh, which is the snout of the Ganga River. Gaumukh is the origin of the holy river Bhagirathi, which becomes the Ganga after merging with the Alaknanda River at Dev Prayag.
Tapovan: The name “Tapovan” comes from the ancient practice of meditation by sages and saints in this region. Legend has it that Bhakt Bhagirath performed penance here to bring Mother Ganga from heaven to earth. After visiting the Gaumukh Glacier, the trek takes you to the beautiful meadow of Tapovan. The place offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi. So, the
Tapovan trek blends both spirituality and adventure.
The trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to rocky terrains to glacial moraines. As you ascend to an altitude of around 4,400 meters, you’ll face challenges like river crossings, steep climbs, and traversing glaciers. Along the way, you’ll be treated to some of the most beautiful Himalayan landscapes. Snow-capped peaks like Mt. Shivling (6,543 m), Mt. Meru (6,630 m), and Kharchakund (6612m) dominate the skyline. The Bhagirathi Group of peaks—especially peaks I, II, and III—grace the eastern bank of the Gangotri glacier.
This trek holds deep spiritual meaning. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and many pilgrims seek blessings and connect with the divinity of the Himalayas during their journey.
Overall, the GaumukhTapovan trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty
Day wise Schedule:
Day 1: Reporting at Rishikesh (07.00 am) drive to Gangotri (Drive – 259 km)
Start your adventure by driving from Rishikesh to Gangotri. Enjoy the scenic views along the way. Gangotri is situated at an elevation of 3,048 meters (10,000 feet). We will start early from Rishikesh so that we reach Gangotri by the evening.
Day 2: Rest Day at Gangotri
Take a day to acclimatize and soak in the stunning surroundings. Explore the nearby attractions of Gangotri Temple, including Surya Kund, the museum, and ashrams.
Day 3: Gangotri to Chirbasa (9 Km Trek)
After breakfast we will start our trek along the river Bhagirathi to reach Chirbasa (at an altitude of approx 3600 meter). The trek is a gradual ascent of 9kms to be covered in approx. 4hrs. Gangotri National Park check post is around 2 km away, where permits are checked
Day 4: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (5 km Trek).
Continue your trek for 5kms to Bhojbasa at an elevation of 3,800 meters (12,467 feet), and the trek duration is around 3 hours. The barren terrain adds to the rugged beauty of the region. Bhojbasa offers breathtaking views of the Bhagirathi I, II, III. The route gets adventurous from here, passing through a couple of rock-fall zones. The ascent is gradual and the trek, comfortable. Carry a water bottle, which you can refill from the waterfalls and mountain streams on the route.
Day 5: Bhojbasa to Gaumukh and Tapovan (09 kmTrek)
After breakfast, cross the River Bhagirathi by wire rope cable trolley and start 4kms trek towards Gaumukh- situated at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet). Enjoy the stark yet dramatic scenery; lookout for native bharal or blue sheep, and alpine birds.
The Shivling peak appears on your right, and straight ahead, looms the Bhagirathi massif. Carry enough water. From Gaumukh, start the steep ascend to Tapovan (at a height of 4300m) situated at the base of Mt. Shivling (6543m) that is also known as “Matterhorn of the East” by the early European visitors because of its similarity with the famous peak of Alps. The last kilometre is a near vertical climb to reach the top and involves crossing the Akash Ganga stream twice. It is indeed a challenging climb to Tapovan where you can camp for the night.
Day 6: Explore the Tapovan region and Shivling Base Camp, Yoga and meditate amidst the grandeur of Mt. Shivling and Bhagirathi Massif.
Day 7: Tapovan to Chirbasa via Gaumukh.
Trek back from Tapovan to the wire rope trolley and cross Bhagirathi River back to Bhojbasa. From there, continue the descend to Chirbasa which is 11kms away and takes about 5-6 hours.
Day 8: Chirbasa to Uttarkashi via Gartang Gali and Harshil.
From Chirbasa on the way back to Gangotri, a 9 km / 3hrs trek, it will take you back to Gangotri, for the return drive to Uttarkashi enroute photo-stops to see GartangGali- a cliff hanging wooden bridge in the deep canyon of Nelong Ganga and Harshil Valley. Another ‘optional’ stop to take bath in hot sulpher spring at Gangnani. On arrival, check into an accommodation.
Day 9: Programme Ends after Breakfast.
Conclude your memorable trek with a hearty breakfast.Note:
1. We recommend trekkers who have At least one- two Prior high altitudes (above 12000ft) trekking experiences and you need to submit the proof of that. Prior trekking experience(s) will prepare you both physically and mentally for this challenge.
2. Furthermore this glacier valley lacks oxygen, resulting in more challenges from acclimatization perspective. Our itinerary has a full rest and acclimatization day at Gangotri, still a considerable number of trekkers struggle to cope with rarefied oxygen on difficult terrain. Acclimatization problem can happen to anyone, but people with prior acclimatization problem may face problem on this trail.
3. Porters/Mules for offloading the bags are not allowed and permissible in this trek.
4. A good level of physical fitness is essential to tackle the challenges of the trek. Regular exercise and stamina-building activities such as hiking, jogging, or cycling can help prepare the body for the demands of the trail.
Name Of The Program Corrdinator: Shri Jyoti K. Shrivastava
Contact Number: 9818097600
Email Address: delhi.yhaistate@gmail.com
Complete Postal Address: Youth Hostels Association of India, Delhi State Branch 5, Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi -110021.
Who can Participate: This expedition is open to YHAI members who are 18 years above and physically fit. Above 60 years will be allowed after approval of Programme Co-ordinator/Authorised Persons in offline mode. Members who have done at least one high altitude trek (above 12000 ft) and you need to submit the proof of that. Members will have to carry your rucksack by own, mules or porter for offloading the bags are not allowed in this trek.
Required Documents:
1. Admit Card
2. Medical Certificate (original copy): A Trekking Medical Certificate is mandatory at the time of reporting. It should be signed by a registered Medical Practitioner and include their registration number and stamp.
3. YHAI Membership Card
4. Photo ID Proof (Original and photocopy)
5. Two passport size photographs
How To Reach The Base Camp : Rishikesh is around 250 kms from Delhi. You can approach by air, train or by road. Nearest Airport is Jolly Grant Air Port. Nearest railway station is Rishikesh. State Transport buses are available from Delhi also.
How to join: Members may apply online by paying requisite programme fee including online booking amount Rs 19500/- at www.yhaindia.org.
For offline booking: Members can also deposit the participation fee in any branch of Canara Bank giving the following details:
Name of Account: Youth Hostels Association of India, Delhi State Branch
Bank Name: Canara Bank
Branch: 7/48, Diplomatic Enclave, Malcha Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi -110021
Account No: 0157101030829
IFSC: CNRB0000157
Offline Booking Process: Members desirous of joining this programme may apply on the prescribed registration form duly supported by YHAI prescribed Medical Certificate along with or Deposit Slip/NEFT Challan Copy or a DD/Cheque of requisite amount Rs. 19500/- in favour of “Youth Hostels Association of India, Delhi State Branch” payable at New Delhi
Accommodation facilities: : Accommodation in Hotel/Tent on sharing basis will be provided.
Food & Water supplies: : Simple, nutritious vegetarian meals will be provided.
TRANSPORTATION: Transportation from Rishikesh to Gangotri and Gangotri to Uttarkashi by Tempo Traveller/Jeep will be provided only.
What Participants Should Bring Along:
Essential Clothing and Gear:
Trekking Shoes: Ensure your shoes have a good grip, fit well, and are broken in. Please don’t use new trekking shoes during the trek. Ankle support is recommended.
Rucksack: 50 – 60 ltr Rucksack. We will not provide rucksack in this trek.
Bag Cover: Keep your backpack dry.
Plastic Covers: Protect electronic items and wet clothes.
Day Pack: Carry a small day pack (10L or 20L) it may required on acclimatization day or visit to market or anywhere in your daypack, you can keep water bottles, lunch snacks, rainwear, emergency medicines, a torch/headlamp, and a warm layer.
Clothing:
Trousers (preferably Dry fit): Two or Three comfortable pants for trekking.
Tshirts/Shirts(Preferably Dry Fit): Two – three T-shirts/Shirts
Fleece/Sweater and Jacket: Layer up to stay warm during chilly evenings. The temperature will be around 0-5 degrees in the evening and morning, so carry woolen accordingly.
Woolen Cap: Keep your head warm at higher altitudes.
Light Towel: Compact and quick-drying.
Sun Cap: Shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
Socks (3 -4 pairs): Moisture-wicking and comfortable.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from glare and UV radiation.
Headlamp/Torch: Essential for night use.
Trekking Pole: Provides stability and support.
Rainwear (Raincoat or Poncho): Be prepared for unexpected showers.
Toilet Kit: Personal hygiene essentials.
Lunch Box: Carry your meals during the trek.
Sleeper/Hiking Sandal: Comfortable footwear for campsite use.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated.
Personal Medical Kit: Include basic medications and first aid supplies.
Safety & Security : : Trained/expert camp leaders will be available for guidance. Medicines will be available in the camp. First aid/ basic medical assistance shall be provided. While every care has been taken to ensure safety, The Youth Hostels Association of India, Delhi State Branch will not be responsible for any accidents, illness and any such unforeseen eventualities.
Special Casual leave: The Trekking Expedition organized by Youth Hostels Association of India have the approval of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions (Dept. of Personnel And Training), Government of India, vide Office Order no. 28016/3/89-Estt (A), Dated 25 October, 1989. Participants working in the Central Govt. Organization can apply to the authorities concerned for availing special casual leave for the duration of the expedition. This leave can be sanctioned by their office up to 30 days in calendar year.
Certificates: Participants, who successfully complete the trek and abide by the discipline of the program, will be awarded certificates.
Additional Notes:
1. Smoking, use of alcohol and narcotics of any description is strictly prohibited during the course of the program.
2. Deviation from the set route of the program is not permitted. If participants may wish to join any other activity, they may do so at their own responsibility and risk only after finishing the program and checking out.
3. Stay other than YHAI Camp is not allowed for the entire duration of the camp.
4. This is an environment friendly trek. Do no litter any wrappers or spoil the trial in any way. In case you find any wrapper, plastic bag or anything left by trekkers on the way, please carry the same with you and deposit at the next camp.
5. Burning of woods during camp fire is strictly prohibited.
6. Medical Certificate is compulsory; you have to summit Medical Certificate at the time of reporting.
If found flouting the rules, your participation will be terminated with immediate effect.
Cancellation Rules:
In case you are unable to join this trek you will get 50% of the Programme Fee which is Rs. 9750 /- as refund, provided your online cancellation request is received before 31st August 2024 (positively). Any request received after the last date of cancellation will not be considered.
Any unforeseen event / strike or natural calamity will not be considered as a cause of cancellation. Refund will be given after completion of the programs.