Basecamp
Gangotri
Duration
6 Days
Max. Altitude
14,640 ft.
Distance
48 Kms
Grade
Moderate
Pickup/Drop
Dehradun
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Overview
Gomukh Tapovan Trek – Complete Overview for Trekkers and Pilgrims
The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is a high-altitude Himalayan adventure in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, taking trekkers deep into the heart of the Gangotri Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the Indian Himalayas. Revered as the source of the River Ganga (Gomukh), this trek is a perfect blend of spirituality, glacial terrain, alpine meadows, and iconic Himalayan peaks.
Starting from the sacred town of Gangotri (3,048 m)—one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites—the trek follows the course of the Bhagirathi River, moving through lush deodar forests, rock-strewn moraines, and open valleys to the Gomukh Glacier (3,892 m), the snout of the Gangotri Glacier. Beyond Gomukh, the trail ascends steeply to reach Tapovan (4,463 m), a spectacular alpine meadow situated at the base of Mount Shivling (6,543 m), surrounded by towering snow-clad giants like Bhagirathi I, II, and III, Mount Meru, and Sudarshan Parbat.
Ideal for experienced trekkers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers, this trek offers:
A sacred Himalayan route associated with sages like Bhagirath and Tapovan Rishis.
One of the best places in India for high-altitude meditation.
Unmatched panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks.
Rare Himalayan flora like Brahma Kamal, and sightings of blue sheep, Himalayan ibex, and snow foxes in Gangotri National Park.
Key Highlights of the Gomukh Tapovan Trek
Trek Duration: 7–9 days (Gangotri to Gangotri)
Trek Distance: Approx. 46–50 km round trip
Maximum Altitude: 4,463 meters (Tapovan)
Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult
Best Time to Visit: May to mid-June, September to October
Region: Gangotri National Park, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
Start & End Point: Gangotri (accessible by road from Dehradun, Haridwar, or Rishikesh)
Trek Type: Glacier trek, alpine meadow trek, spiritual pilgrimage
Spiritual Significance of Gomukh & Tapovan
Gomukh, meaning “Cow’s Mouth,” is believed to be the point from where the River Ganga (Bhagirathi) emerges from the Gangotri Glacier.
Tapovan is an ancient meditative ground for sages, especially those worshipping Lord Shiva. Many yogis still live in stone caves around this pristine meadow.
This trail is part of the ancient Bhagirathi valley pilgrimage circuit.
Landscape & Terrain
Begins in lush pine, cedar, and birch forests near Gangotri.
Trail transitions to glacial moraine, river crossings, and rocky ascents.
Tapovan is a wide, flat grassland dotted with streams, wildflowers, and boulders, ideal for camping with jaw-dropping Himalayan views
Why Choose Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
- Source of the Ganga – one of the most sacred rivers in the world
- Close-up views of iconic Himalayan summits like Shivling and Bhagirathi
- Serene Tapovan – perfect for yoga, meditation, and stargazing
- Snowfields, glaciers, rivers, meadows – all in one trail
- Rich biodiversity of Gangotri National Park
- Fewer crowds compared to commercial treks
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Short Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri (Drive)
Distance: ~240 km
Time: 10–12 hours
Altitude Gain: 640 m (Dehradun) → 3,048 m (Gangotri)
Route: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Uttarkashi → Harsil → Gangotri
Day 2: Gangotri to Bhojwasa (Trek)
Distance: ~14 km
Time: 5–6 hours
Altitude Gain: 3,048 m → 3,800 m
Route: Gangotri → Chirbasa → Bhojwasa
Day 3: Bhojwasa to Tapovan via Gomukh (Trek)
Distance: ~10 km
Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude Gain: 3,800 m → 4,463 m
Route: Bhojwasa → Gomukh → Tapovan
Day 4: Tapovan to Bhojwasa (Return Trek)
Distance: ~10 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Altitude Loss: 4,463 m → 3,800 m
Route: Tapovan → Gomukh → Bhojwasa
Day 5: Bhojwasa to Gangotri (Trek) → Drive to Dehradun
Distance (Trek): ~14 km | Drive: ~240 km
Time: 5–6 hours (trek) + 10–12 hours (drive)
Altitude Loss: 3,800 m → 3,048 m → 640 m
Route: Bhojwasa → Chirbasa → Gangotri → Harsil → Uttarkashi → Dehradun
Day 6: Gangotri to Dehradun (Drive)
Distance: ~240 km
Time: 10–12 hours
Altitude Loss: 3,048 m (Gangotri) → 640 m (Dehradun)
Route: Gangotri → Harsil → Uttarkashi → Chinyalisaur → Dehradun
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Detailed Itinerary
Distance: ~240 km
Travel Time: 10–12 hours
Altitude Gain: 640 m (Dehradun) → 3,048 m (Gangotri)
Route: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Uttarkashi → Bhatwari → Harsil → Gangotri
Your Gomukh Tapovan Trek journey begins early morning from Dehradun, a well-connected city in Uttarakhand, India. You’ll embark on a long but incredibly scenic drive to Gangotri, the base point for the trek. The route follows the majestic Bhagirathi River, offering breathtaking views of pine forests, apple orchards, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks along the way.
You will first pass through Mussoorie, a popular hill station known for its colonial charm and panoramic viewpoints. From there, the road winds through picturesque towns like Nainbagh, Purola, and Barkot, gradually ascending into the upper Himalayan region. As you approach Uttarkashi, you’ll notice the landscape becoming more rugged and alpine.
After a short stop in Uttarkashi for permits or meals, the drive continues through Bhatwari and Harsil, a serene Himalayan valley known for its natural beauty and military outposts. The final stretch from Harsil to Gangotri is narrow and dramatic, with sharp bends and panoramic river valley views that make it one of the most beautiful mountain drives in India.
On reaching Gangotri (3,048 m), check in at your guesthouse/lodge. If time permits, visit the Gangotri Temple, one of the Char Dhams and a sacred source of the River Ganga. This is your night halt, allowing your body to start adjusting to the high altitude before you begin your trek the next morning.
Distance: ~14 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Altitude Gain: 3,048 m (Gangotri) → 3,800 m (Bhojbasa)
Route: Gangotri → Chirbasa → Bhojbasa
Trail Type: Gradual ascent on a well-defined trail along Bhagirathi River
On Day 2, you begin your actual trek from Gangotri to Bhojbasa, following the scenic trail that runs parallel to the Bhagirathi River. The trail enters the Gangotri National Park, one of the most pristine high-altitude ecosystems in the Indian Himalayas, making this stretch an ideal introduction to the landscapes you’ll explore deeper in the trek.
The first stretch of the trek is a moderate ascent of about 9 km to Chirbasa (3,600 m), a serene forest campsite known for its dense pine and birch trees. The name ‘Chirbasa’ literally means “home of chir (pine) trees.” You’ll pass through a well-maintained forest trail with occasional stone steps and bridges, offering magnificent views of Mount Sudarshan Parbat and other snow-covered peaks.
From Chirbasa, the landscape gradually transforms. The next 5 km to Bhojbasa is less forested and more alpine, with sparse vegetation and open valleys. This portion of the trail exposes you to panoramic views of the Bhagirathi peaks I, II, and III, and you may encounter blue sheep and Himalayan marmots if lucky.
By afternoon, you’ll arrive at Bhojbasa (3,800 m) — the last campsite before Gaumukh. Bhojbasa means “home of Bhoj trees,” though very few now remain due to high-altitude conditions. You’ll stay in either a tent accommodation or ashram guesthouse, depending on availability and weather. The site offers a stunning open valley view, with the Bhagirathi river gushing nearby and the first distant glimpse of the Gomukh glacier visible on a clear day.
Spend the evening acclimatizing, hydrating, and resting under a sky full of stars in this remote Himalayan landscape.
Distance: ~10 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Altitude Gain: 3,800 m (Bhojbasa) → 4,463 m (Tapovan)
Route: Bhojbasa → Gomukh Glacier (~4 km) → Tapovan (~6 km)
Trail Type: Gradual to steep ascent with glacial moraine crossing, rocky terrain, and alpine meadows
Day 3 is the most scenic and challenging part of the Gomukh Tapovan Trek. You start early from Bhojbasa and head toward the Gomukh Glacier — the revered source of the River Ganga. The first 4 km to Gomukh is a well-defined path over rugged terrain, with stunning views of the Bhagirathi peaks towering above and the Gomukh snout coming into view as you approach.
Reaching Gomukh (4,023 m) is a spiritually significant moment — this glacial snout, shaped like a cow’s mouth, is where the Bhagirathi (Ganga) river emerges from beneath the ice. Many pilgrims and trekkers pause here to offer prayers and absorb the divine energy of this sacred Himalayan site.
After a short break at Gomukh, the trail becomes more demanding. The remaining 6 km to Tapovan involves a steep ascent over glacial moraine, loose rocks, and icy terrain. You’ll navigate carefully across the Akhri Chowki section — a challenging part of the route where you must cross glacial streams and boulders. The final climb to Tapovan is steep but rewarding, with every step revealing broader vistas of Himalayan giants like Shivling (6,543 m), Meru, and Bhagirathi group of peaks.
By early afternoon, you reach Tapovan (4,463 m) — a breathtaking alpine meadow perched above the glacier. Known for its surreal beauty, Tapovan is considered one of the best high-altitude meadows in India. The region is dotted with wildflowers, snow patches, and babbling streams, with Mount Shivling rising like a divine spire in the background.
Tapovan is also a spiritual retreat, historically used by sadhus and yogis for deep meditation. You’ll spend the night here in tents, experiencing unparalleled solitude and grandeur under the Himalayan sky.
Distance: ~10 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude Loss: 4,463 m (Tapovan) → 3,800 m (Bhojbasa)
Route: Tapovan → Gomukh → Bhojbasa
Trail Type: Steep descent over glacial moraine, rocky trails, and gradual sections
On Day 4, you begin your descent from Tapovan back to Bhojbasa, retracing your steps across one of the most scenic stretches of the Gangotri National Park. The return trek, although shorter in altitude gain, demands equal focus due to steep downhill patches and moraine crossings.
You start early from Tapovan (4,463 m), soaking in the final panoramic views of Mount Shivling, Bhagirathi peaks, and the sprawling Gomukh Glacier. The descent begins with navigating the steep section down to Akhri Chowki, where the path is full of loose rocks, glacial streams, and ice-covered patches — especially in the early season (May-June).
After crossing this tricky section, you descend to Gomukh (4,023 m), where you’ll once again see the glacier snout, one of the holiest points in India, revered as the origin of the River Ganga. You may take a short rest here to admire the spiritual and natural wonder of this powerful glacial stream bursting forth from the heart of the Himalayas.
From Gomukh, the trail continues downward along the Bhagirathi River on a more gradual path back to Bhojbasa (3,800 m). This part of the trail passes through alpine desert landscapes dotted with boulders and wild Himalayan flora. The wind is often sharp at this altitude, so trekkers are advised to stay warm and hydrated.
By early afternoon, you reach Bhojbasa, where you’ll camp for the night. Compared to Tapovan, the temperature is slightly milder and the trail is less exposed to wind. Enjoy your final night in the wilderness, watching the sun set behind the mighty Bhagirathi peaks.
Distance: ~14 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Altitude Loss: 3,800 m (Bhojbasa) → 3,048 m (Gangotri)
Route: Bhojbasa → Chirbasa → Gangotri
On Day 5, begin your descent from Bhojbasa (3,800 m) to Gangotri (3,048 m). This 14 km downhill trek takes about 4 to 5 hours, following the same trail used during your ascent. The descent offers beautiful panoramic views of the Bhagirathi peaks, the Gomukh Glacier valley, and the vibrant flora of the Gangotri National Park.
The trail passes through Chirbasa (3,600 m)—a scenic rest point filled with pine forests and open valley views. As you descend further, the terrain gradually becomes gentler and greener, making the final stretch to Gangotri more comfortable yet still demanding on the knees.
By afternoon, reach the sacred town of Gangotri, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Once in Gangotri, check in to a guesthouse or lodge. Spend the evening exploring the surroundings, resting by the Bhagirathi River, and revisiting the Gangotri Temple if you wish.
Enjoy a hot, comforting dinner and a well-earned night’s rest in Gangotri, soaking in the spiritual and natural serenity of the Himalayas.
Distance: ~240 km
Time: 10–12 hours
Altitude Loss: 3,048 m (Gangotri) → 640 m (Dehradun)
Route: Gangotri → Harsil → Uttarkashi → Chinyalisaur → Dehradun
On the final day of your Gomukh Tapovan Trek, you will drive back from Gangotri to Dehradun, covering approximately 240 km in about 10 to 12 hours. The journey winds along the picturesque Bhagirathi River, through dense forests, quaint Himalayan villages, and scenic hill towns like Harsil and Uttarkashi.
The route offers beautiful views of terraced fields, pine valleys, and cascading waterfalls, especially during early mornings. You will pass important stopovers like Bhatwari, Naldhera, and Chinyalisaur, gradually descending into the Doon Valley.
It’s advisable to start the journey early in the morning to reach Dehradun by evening. On arrival in Dehradun (altitude 640 m), you can either check into a hotel for the night or proceed with your onward travel by train, bus, or flight.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Package Cost Includes
Transportation
Dehradun to Gangotri and return in shared private vehicle (Tempo Traveller/Bolero/SUV)
Pick-up and drop points: Dehradun Railway Station / ISBT Dehradun / Tapovan Taxi Stand
Accommodation
Day 1 (Gangotri): Stay in hotel/guesthouse (twin/triple sharing)
Day 2 to 5 (Bhojbasa & Tapovan): Dome tents / alpine tents on twin/triple sharing basis
Clean sleeping bags, foam mattresses, and weatherproof tents provided
Meals (Pure Vegetarian & Nutritious)
All meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 6 breakfast
Includes: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner + Hot Soup
Tea/Coffee served twice daily
Hygienic, nutritious meals with variety (dal, rice, sabzi, khichdi, pasta, poha, upma, halwa)
Trekking Equipment
Waterproof alpine tents (3-season and snowproof)
Sleeping bags rated for -10°C
Thick foam sleeping mats
Gaiters and microspikes/crampons (in glacier/snow zones)
Trekking poles and headlamps (limited availability on request)
Experienced Trek Team
Certified Trek Leader (Wilderness First Responder / First Aid trained)
Experienced local mountain guides with terrain knowledge
Support staff and porters/mules for common equipment and logistics
Safety & First Aid
Daily oxygen saturation checks using oximeter
Basic first-aid kit and high-altitude sickness protocols
Oxygen cylinder (for emergency use only)
Backup plan for emergency evacuation (cost to be borne by trekker if used)
Permits & Forest Entry Fees
Inner line permit for Gomukh glacier
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Package Cost Excludes
Transportation to and from Dehradun (if not opted for in the package)
Personal trekking gear: trekking shoes, jackets, gloves, walking sticks (can be rented at base)
Meals during transit (on Dehradun–Gangotri and return journey)
Backpack offloading charges (if you want a porter/mule to carry your personal backpack)
Buffer/reserve day cost (if used due to weather or any unforeseen conditions)
Personal expenses: snacks, bottled water, mineral water, cold drinks, energy bars
Medical & travel insurance (highly recommended for all trekkers)
Emergency evacuation cost, if any (to be borne by the trekker)
Tips for guides, staff, porters (optional but appreciated)
Anything not mentioned in the “Package Includes” section
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Package Cost
Gangotri To Gangotri
₹ 12,500/- PP
₹ 11,999/- PP
- 5 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Dehradun To Dehradun
₹ 16,500/- PP
₹ 14,999/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Dehradun
- 5 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Delhi To Delhi
₹ 19,500/- PP
₹ 17,999/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Delhi
- 5 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Fix Departures
November
10 Nov - 14 Nov
15 Nov - 19 Nov
22 Nov - 27 Nov
25 Nov - 29 Nov
Available
Available
Available
Available
December
1Dec - 5 Dec
5 Dec - 9 Dec
8 Dec - 12 Dec
10 Dec - 14 Dec
15 Dec - 19 Dec
18 Dec - 22 Dec
22 Dec - 26 Dec
25 Dec - 29 Dec
26 Dec - 30 Dec
27 Dec - 31 Dec
28 Dec - 1 Jan
29 Dec - 2 Jan
30 Dec - 3 Jan
31Dec - 4 Jan
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
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Available
Available
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Available
Available
January
2 Jan - 7 Jan
5 Jan - 12 Jan
8 Jan - 13 Jan
10 Jan - 15 Jan
13 Jan - 18 Jan
15 Jan - 20 Jan
18 Jan - 23 Jan
20 Jan - 25 Jan
22 Jan - 27 Jan
24 Jan - 29 Jan
25 Jan - 30 Jan
28 Jan - 1 Feb
30 Jan - 4 Feb
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
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Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
February
2 Feb - 7 Feb
5 Feb - 9 Feb
9 Feb - 14 Feb
11 Feb - 18 Feb
15 Feb - 19 Feb
19 Feb - 24 Feb
21 Feb - 26 Feb
25 Feb - 1 Mar
28 Feb - 4 Mar
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
March
3 Mar - 8 Mar
5 Mar - 10 Mar
9 Mar - 14 Mar
11 Mar - 16 Mar
15 Mar - 20 Mar
18 Mar - 23 Mar
22 Mar - 27 Mar
26 Mar - 1 Apr
30 Mar - 3 Apr
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
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Available
Available
April
1 Apr - 6 Apr
10 Apr - 15 Apr
12 Apr - 17 Apr
18 Apr - 23 Apr
25 Apr - 30 Apr
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
How To Reach Gomukh Tapovan Trek
1. Reach Dehradun – The Nearest Major City (Uttarakhand)
By Air:
Jolly Grant Airport (DED), Dehradun is the nearest airport.
Well-connected with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, Jaipur.
From the airport, hire a taxi to Uttarkashi/Gangotri or go to ISBT Dehradun for shared cabs.
By Train:
Dehradun Railway Station has direct trains from:
Delhi (Nanda Devi Express, Mussoorie Express)
Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Varanasi, Haridwar
Taxis or buses are available from the station to Gangotri via Uttarkashi.
By Bus/Car:
Government and private buses from Delhi (Kashmere Gate ISBT) to Dehradun.
Overnight Volvos, semi-sleepers, and shared jeeps also available.
Travel time: 6–8 hours from Delhi to Dehradun.
2. Dehradun to Gangotri (Base Village for Trek)
Distance: ~240 km
Travel Time: 10–12 hours
Route: Dehradun → Rishikesh → Chinyalisaur → Uttarkashi → Harsil → Gangotri
Options to reach Gangotri:
Private cabs: ₹6,000–8,000 (one-way) – recommended for groups
Shared jeeps: Available from Rishikesh/Dehradun to Uttarkashi, then onward to Gangotri
Bus service: Limited government buses run early morning (seasonal availability)
3. Gangotri to Trek Starting Point
The Gomukh Tapovan Trek starts from Gangotri village (3,048 m).
You’ll begin trekking the next morning after a night’s halt and permit check.
Summary – How to Reach Gomukh Tapovan Trek
| Route | Mode of Transport | Distance & Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Dehradun | Train / Flight / Bus | ~250 km – 6 to 8 hours |
| Dehradun to Gangotri | Shared Jeep / Private Cab | ~240 km – 10 to 12 hours |
| Gangotri to Trek Start | On Foot | Trek starts from Gangotri itself |
From Delhi to Gomukh Tapovan:
Delhi → Dehradun (overnight train/bus) → Gangotri (shared cab/private taxi)From Mumbai to Gomukh Tapovan:
Mumbai → Dehradun (flight/train via Delhi) → GangotriFrom Bangalore to Gomukh Tapovan:
Bangalore → Dehradun (flight via Delhi) → Gangotri
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Booking Policy
- Booking is confirmed only after receiving a minimum 30% advance payment
Balance amount to be paid at pickup time.
Payment Options
Online payment via UPI / Bank Transfer / Net Banking / Debit & Credit Cards
Payment receipt will be shared via email or WhatsApp for confirmation
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Cancellation Policy
- 90% refund if cancelled 30+ days before trek date
- 70% refund if cancelled 15–29 days before trek
- 50% refund if cancelled 7–14 days before trek
- No refund if cancelled less than 7 days before trek or no-show
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Essentials
The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is a high-altitude Himalayan trek in Uttarakhand that takes you to the source of the holy Ganga River and the breathtaking meadows of Tapovan near the Shivling peak. With altitudes soaring up to 4,463 meters (14,640 ft), proper preparation and gear are critical for safety, comfort, and an unforgettable experience.
Base Layer (thermal innerwear – top and bottom)
2–3 Full sleeve quick-dry T-shirts (avoid cotton)
2 Insulating Layers (fleece/wool sweaters or light down jacket)
1 Heavy Feather Jacket / Padded Jacket (for summit day)
2 Trek Pants (quick-dry; avoid jeans)
1 Windproof & Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
Thermal Track Pants (for nights)
Warm Innerwear & Undergarments (at least 2–3 pairs)
1 pair of high-ankle trekking shoes (snow/water-resistant)
1 pair of slippers / sandals for campsite use
Optional: Gaiters (for heavy snow)
Trekking backpack (40–50L) with rain cover
Daypack (10–15L) for summit day
Trekking pole (highly recommended)
Headlamp / torch with spare batteries
Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration bladder
Sunglasses (UV-protected)
Power bank
Ziplock / dry bags for organizing
Optional: Camera or GoPro
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Biodegradable soap / face wash
Lip balm (essential for cold cracks)
Cold cream / moisturizer
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Quick-dry towel
Toilet paper / tissues
Hand sanitizer
Menstrual hygiene products (as required)
Wet wipes (optional but useful)
Paracetamol / Ibuprofen
Diamox (only after doctor’s advice)
Band-aids / blister patches
Antiseptic cream
Crepe bandage
Personal medication
ORS / Glucose / Electrolyte powder
Original Government ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, Voter ID)
Medical fitness certificate (if required by trek operator)
Trek disclaimer form (provided by operator)
Trek booking confirmation / permit copy (if applicable)
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Fitness
Fitness for Gomukh Tapovan Trek – Are You Trek-Ready?
The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is rated moderate to difficult, making it suitable for physically fit individuals with prior trekking experience or those who have trained well in advance. You’ll be trekking up to an altitude of 4,463 meters (14,640 ft), facing long trekking hours, glacier moraines, and steep ascents—all of which require good cardiovascular stamina, leg strength, and mental resilience.
Basic Fitness Requirements
To successfully complete the Gomukh Tapovan Trek, you should meet these fitness benchmarks:
Jogging/Walking: Able to walk 6–7 km in 1 hour without stress
Stair Climbing: Able to climb 10–15 floors at a stretch without exhaustion
Cardio Endurance: 30–40 minutes of brisk walking/jogging, 5 days a week
Leg Strength: Able to squat 20–30 times comfortably; lunges and step-ups also helpful
Flexibility & Balance: Daily stretching and balance exercises (for rocky & icy terrain)
Ideal Pre-Trek Fitness Plan (Start 4–6 Weeks Before Trek)
Week 1–2: Build Stamina
Brisk walking/jogging: 3–4 km daily
Light stretching (hamstrings, calves, lower back)
Week 3–4: Build Strength
Squats: 3 sets of 15 reps
Lunges: 3 sets of 10 reps (each leg)
Step-ups on stairs or bench: 3 sets of 20 reps
Core: Planks (hold for 30–60 sec), crunches
Week 5–6: Improve Breathing & Endurance
Stair climbing: 10–15 floors daily
Practice deep breathing (Pranayama)
Hiking practice with 6–8 kg backpack
Health Considerations
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a risk after 3,000 m. Train your lungs and adapt slowly.
Avoid smoking/alcohol at least 2 weeks before the trek.
If you have asthma, high blood pressure, or any chronic illness, consult your doctor.
Mental Preparation
This trek involves:
Crossing glacial terrain and streams
Camping in cold temperatures (-5°C to -10°C)
5–7 hours of trekking daily
Prepare to push your limits, stay positive, and enjoy the challenges.
Who Should Avoid This Trek?
People with heart or respiratory conditions (without doctor’s clearance)
Individuals with poor knee or back health
Completely untrained or sedentary individuals
Quick Tips to Build Trekking Fitness
Walk uphill with a loaded backpack
Do cardio with breathing through your nose to simulate altitude
Try weekend hikes to simulate real conditions
Eat a balanced, high-protein diet to build strength
Gomukh Tapovan Trek FAQ's
Where is the Gomukh Tapovan Trek located?
The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, starting from Gangotri and leading to the Gomukh Glacier and Tapovan meadows at the base of Mt. Shivling.
What is the best time to do the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
The best time for the Gomukh Tapovan Trek is from May to June and September to mid-October. Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to landslides and flash floods.
What is the altitude of Tapovan and Gomukh Glacier?
Gomukh Glacier: 4,023 meters (13,200 ft)
Tapovan: 4,463 meters (14,640 ft)
How difficult is the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
It is a moderate to difficult trek, involving long walking hours, steep ascents, and glacier crossings. Prior trekking experience or good fitness is recommended.
How many days are needed for Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
The trek takes 5 to 6 days to complete from Gangotri to Tapovan and back, excluding travel from Dehradun.
What should I pack for the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
Essential items include:
Trekking shoes
Warm layers (thermals, down jacket)
Rain gear
Trekking pole, headlamp
Personal medication
Reusable water bottle
Check the full [Trek Essentials list] for details.
Is camping allowed at Tapovan?
Yes, camping is allowed at Tapovan with permits. You’ll camp on alpine meadows near Mt. Shivling with stunning glacier views.
Do I need permission for the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
Yes, you need a permit from the Forest Department at Gangotri National Park. Limited daily entries are allowed, so apply in advance or let your trek operator arrange it.
How to reach the starting point of the trek?
The trek starts at Gangotri, which is accessible via road from Dehradun → Uttarkashi → Gangotri. Nearest rail and air access is at Dehradun.
Can beginners do the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
Yes, but only if they are physically fit and well-prepared. The terrain is challenging with glacier crossings, so prior trekking experience helps.
What is the cost of the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
The average package cost ranges from ₹13,000 to ₹18,000 per person. Cost includes transport from Dehradun, accommodation, meals, guides, and camping equipment.
What are the risks involved in the trek?
Altitude sickness (AMS)
Glacier crevasses
Sudden weather changes
Cold temperatures (down to -10°C)
Go with an experienced team and carry a first-aid kit and oximeter.
What peaks can I see during the trek?
You get close-up views of:
Mt. Shivling (6,543 m)
Bhagirathi Sisters
Meru Peak
Sudarsan Parbat
Can I drink water from streams during the trek?
Yes, water from mountain streams is usually clean, but it’s best to carry purification tablets or a LifeStraw filter for safety.
Will there be snow on the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
You may encounter snow patches in early May or late October, especially near Tapovan. Summer (May–June) is mostly snow-free with glacier crossings.
Which is best travel company for Gomukh Tapovan trek?
Solo Hike is Sankri, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand based trevel company, providing Gomukh Tapovan trek services since 10 years. Solo Hike help you to get the package from Gangotri, Dehradun and even from Delhi too, with best and affordable prices.
GOMUKH TAPOVAN TREK PHOTOS
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