GOMUKH TAPOVAN TREK
BASECAMP
Janglik
DURATION
7D /6N
GRADE
MODERATE
ALTITUDE
15,000 ft
DISTANCE
40 KMS
PICKUP/DROP
DEHRADUN
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OVERVIEW
The Buran Ghati Trek is an exhilarating and scenic adventure in Himachal Pradesh, offering trekkers a unique combination of snow-covered landscapes, alpine meadows, and traditional villages. Located in the Shimla district, this trek is known for its breathtaking views of the Kinner Kailash Range and Churdhar Peak, making it a photographer’s paradise. It’s ideal for adventure enthusiasts looking for an offbeat journey amidst nature’s grandeur.
Spanning over 8–9 days, the trek starts from Janglik and takes you through dense forests, charming hamlets, and high-altitude meadows. The trail is relatively challenging, involving steep ascents, snow crossings, and the famous Buran Ghati Pass (15,000 ft), which offers a thrilling descent on snow slopes. As you cross this pass, you get panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, creating a sense of achievement.
The trek is also rich in cultural experiences, with the opportunity to interact with locals who still live in traditional wooden houses. You will pass through ancient temples and serene alpine lakes, adding to the trek’s allure.
Buran Ghati is considered moderately difficult, making it suitable for seasoned trekkers or those with prior high-altitude experience. The trek is best done in May to June and September to October, when the weather is favorable, and the snow is accessible. It offers an unforgettable experience, combining natural beauty, adventure, and cultural immersion in one remarkable journey.
Day 1 : Dehradun to Janglik
Day 2 : Janglik to Dayara
Day 3 : Dayara to Litham
Day 4 : Acclimatisation hike to Chandranahan Lake
Day 5 : Litham to Dhunda
Day 6 : Dhunda to River campsite via Buran Ghati
Day 7 : River campsite to Barua. Drive to Shimla
Day 1: Dehradun to Janglik
Distance: 170 km (6-7 hours by road)
Altitude: 2,500 m (Janglik)
Details:
Depart from Dehradun in the morning.
Travel through scenic, winding roads with glimpses of the Sutlej River and the surrounding hills.
Cross Rampur and Nahan, passing through small hill towns and forests, gradually ascending toward Janglik.
Arrival at Janglik by evening.
Check into guesthouses or camp sites, as per the plan.
Overnight stay: At Janglik. The first day will allow some time to relax and adjust.
Day 2: Janglik to Dayara
Distance: 7 km (5-6 hours trek)
Altitude: 3,300 m (Dayara)
Details:
The trek starts with a steady climb through oak and deodar forests.
As you ascend, you’ll pass through serene meadows, cross small streams, and see traditional village life along the way.
Enjoy glimpses of the Kinner Kailash Range as the trail opens up.
Arrival at Dayara – an expansive alpine meadow offering views of snow-capped peaks.
Overnight stay: At Dayara, where you’ll camp under the stars.
Day 3: Dayara to Litham
Distance: 10 km (6-7 hours trek)
Altitude: 3,600 m (Litham)
Details:
A steady, gradual ascent from Dayara to Litham, a beautiful high-altitude meadow surrounded by towering peaks.
The trail leads you across open pastures, where you can often spot wildlife and enjoy unobstructed views of the mountains.
As you near Litham, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Kinner Kailash and other snow-clad peaks.
Arrival at Litham: Set up camp in the meadow, surrounded by incredible mountain vistas.
Overnight stay: At Litham.
Day 4: Acclimatization Hike to Chandranahan Lake
Distance: 8 km (5-6 hours trek)
Altitude: 4,000 m (Chandranahan Lake)
Details:
This is an acclimatization day to adjust to the higher altitudes.
You’ll hike up to Chandranahan Lake, a high-altitude lake at 4,000 meters, known for its serene beauty and the surrounding snow-covered slopes.
The hike to the lake is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning views of the landscape.
Return to Litham for the night.
Overnight stay: At Litham.
Day 5: Litham to Dhunda
Distance: 7 km (4-5 hours trek)
Altitude: 4,200 m (Dhunda)
Details:
Begin your trek from Litham toward Dhunda, a campsite near the Buran Ghati Pass.
This section of the trek takes you through meadows and high-altitude terrain, with dramatic views of snow peaks.
The trail is steep and challenging, but the reward is the panoramic view of the Kinner Kailash Range.
Arrival at Dhunda: Set up camp and enjoy the quiet of the high-altitude landscape.
Overnight stay: At Dhunda.
Day 6: Dhunda to River Campsite via Buran Ghati Pass
Distance: 10 km (7-8 hours trek)
Altitude: 4,550 m (Buran Ghati Pass)
Details:
Crossing Buran Ghati Pass (15,000 ft) is the highlight of the trek.
The trek involves a steep ascent followed by a snow-covered pass. The descent can be exciting as it involves a gliding descent down snow slopes.
Once you cross the pass, you descend through rocky terrain and snow patches to reach the river campsite.
Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and the valley below as you make your way to camp.
Overnight stay: At the river campsite.
Day 7: River Campsite to Barua. Drive to Shimla
Distance: 12 km (5-6 hours trek) + Drive to Shimla
Altitude: 2,100 m (Barua)
Details:
The final day of the trek involves a descent to Barua, a village on the lower slopes of the mountains.
As you descend, you’ll pass through dense forests, rustic villages, and picturesque landscapes.
Once at Barua, take a vehicle ride back to Shimla, where the trek concludes.
Arrival in Shimla by evening, marking the end of the journey.
Overnight stay: In Shimla (if necessary, depending on travel plans).
Key Points:
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Duration: 7 days
Maximum Altitude: 4,550 m (Buran Ghati Pass)
Best Time to Trek: May to June, September to October
Trekking Style: Camping, high-altitude adventure, and scenic landscapes
Type Of Packages
- Group Discount Package ( minimum 5 person required) – ₹ 7,999/- per person
- Fix Departure – ₹ 8,499/- Per Person
- Customise Package starting from – ₹ 10,999/- per person
- Solo Package – ₹ 15,999/- per person
1. Accommodation:
✔ Stay in guesthouses/homestays at Gangotri.
✔ Tented accommodation during the trek (twin/triple sharing basis).
2. Meals:
✔ Nutritious vegetarian meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Snacks) from Day 1 dinner to Day 8 breakfast.
✔ High-altitude energy snacks and hot drinks.
3. Transportation:
✔ Dehradun to Dehradun shared vehicle.
✔ Internal transfer as per itinerary.
4. Permits & Fees:
✔ All forest entry fees, camping charges, and trek permits.
✔ Trek insurance (if included in the package).
5. Trekking Staff & Support:
✔ Experienced trek leader and guide (certified mountaineering experts).
✔ Support staff (porters/mules) to carry group camping equipment.
✔ Cook & helpers for fresh meals.
✔ Oxygen cylinder, first aid kit, and emergency support.
6. Trek Equipment:
✔ High-quality tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
✔ Microspikes and gaiters for snow patches.
❌ Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, tips, etc.).
❌ Any transportation costs beyond itinerary (e.g., early departure, personal travel).
❌ Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, trekking poles, backpack, etc.).
❌ Insurance for trekkers (can be arranged on request).
❌ Emergency evacuation, medical expenses, or rescue charges.
❌ Any additional meals/snacks beyond itinerary.
❌ Anything not mentioned in “Inclusions”.
Reach Dehradun (Uttarakhand)
Dehradun is the nearest major city with good connectivity.
🚌 By Road:
Regular buses from Delhi (ISBT Kashmiri Gate) to Dehradun (6–7 hrs).
Taxis also available from Delhi or Haridwar.
✈️ By Air:
Jolly Grant Airport (DED) is the nearest airport (25 km from Dehradun city).
Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and other metros.
🚆 By Train:
Well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow.
Popular trains: Nanda Devi Express, Shatabdi Express.
1. Booking & Payment
✔ Advance Payment: 30% of the total package cost at the time of booking.
✔ Full Payment: Must be completed before departure.
Cancellation Policy:
30+ days before trek: Full refund (minus processing fee)
15-30 days before trek: 50% refund
Less than 15 days: No refund
2. Package Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ The package covers accommodation, meals, transport, permits, and guide services as per itinerary.
✔ Personal expenses, insurance, and emergency evacuation are not included.
3. Fitness & Medical Condition
✔ Trekkers must be physically fit and disclose any medical conditions before booking.
✔ The company is not responsible for health issues arising due to altitude sickness or pre-existing conditions.
4. Trekking Rules & Safety
✔ Follow the trek leader’s instructions at all times.
✔ Consumption of alcohol, drugs, or smoking is strictly prohibited during the trek.
✔ Littering and harming wildlife is not allowed.
5. Cancellation by Organizers
✔ If the trek is canceled due to natural calamities, landslides, or government restrictions, a partial refund or alternative trek will be offered.
1. Clothing (Layering is Key)
✔ Base Layer: Full-sleeve moisture-wicking T-shirts (2-3)
✔ Insulation Layer: Fleece jacket / Down jacket for warmth
✔ Outer Layer: Windproof & waterproof jacket and pants
✔ Trekking Pants: 2-3 quick-dry pants (avoid jeans)
✔ Thermal Wear: 1-2 sets for cold nights
✔ Gloves: 1 pair of woolen gloves + 1 pair of waterproof gloves
✔ Woolen Cap / Balaclava / Buff: To protect from cold
✔ Socks: 4-5 pairs (woolen + synthetic)
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2. Footwear
✔ Trekking Shoes: High-ankle, waterproof with good grip (Quechua, Salomon, or similar brands)
✔ Camp Shoes / Sandals: Lightweight for evenings
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3. Backpack & Accessories
✔ Backpack: 50-60L trekking bag with rain cover
✔ Daypack: 20-30L for summit day & essentials
✔ Trekking Poles: Reduces strain on knees
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4. Sleeping Gear
✔ Sleeping Bag (optional): Provided by trek organizers but carrying an extra liner is useful
✔ Inflatable Pillow: Optional for comfort
5. Personal & Hygiene Kit
✔ Sunscreen (SPF 50+), Lip Balm, Moisturizer
✔ Sunglasses (UV protection)
✔ Quick-dry Towel
✔ Toilet Paper, Wet Wipes, Hand Sanitizer
✔ Toothbrush & Paste
✔ Feminine Hygiene Products
6. First Aid & Medicines
✔ Personal Medication (if any)
✔ Diamox (for altitude sickness, consult your doctor)
✔ Painkillers, Anti-inflammatory Tablets
✔ Band-aids, Blister Patches
✔ ORS / Electrolytes
7. Food & Hydration
✔ 2-3L Reusable Water Bottle / Hydration Bladder
✔ Energy Bars, Dry Fruits, Chocolates
8. Miscellaneous Items
✔ Headlamp with Extra Batteries
✔ Power Bank
✔ Camera / GoPro (optional)
✔ ID Proof (Aadhar Card / Passport)
Pro Tips:
✅ Pack Light – Avoid unnecessary items
✅ Break in Your Trekking Shoes before the trek
✅ Stay Hydrated & Acclimatize properly
1. What is the best time to do the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
May to June and September to mid-October are ideal. The weather is stable, skies are clear, and the trail is open.
2. Is prior trekking experience necessary for this trek?
Not mandatory, but moderate fitness and basic trekking knowledge are highly recommended. It’s a high-altitude trek with steep ascents and moraine patches.
3. How difficult is the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
Moderate to difficult – mainly due to altitude (up to 4,450 m) and rough terrain near the glacier and Tapovan. Good stamina and acclimatization are important.
4. Do I need a permit for the trek?
Yes, you need a permit from the Gangotri National Park Authority, along with a valid photo ID. Trekkers and guides must register.
5. Is it safe to do the trek solo?
Solo is possible but not recommended due to unpredictable glacier terrain, lack of mobile network, and remoteness. A guide or joining a group is safer.
6. Is mobile network available on the trail?
Only BSNL has limited connectivity in Gangotri. No signal beyond Gangotri. Inform family in advance and carry a power bank.
7. Are there stay options on the trail?
Yes, you’ll be camping throughout the trek at Chirbasa, Bhojbasa, and Tapovan. Some basic GMVN huts exist at Bhojbasa but are seasonal.
8. What is the temperature like during the trek?
Day: 10°C to 18°C
Night: -5°C to -10°C at Tapovan (can be colder in May/Oct)
Pack proper thermals and layers.
9. What are the major attractions of this trek?
Gomukh Glacier – the source of the Ganga
Tapovan Meadows – with epic views of Mt. Shivling, Bhagirathi peaks, Mt. Meru
High-altitude meadows, spiritual sites, and glacial landscapes
10. Is acclimatization a concern on this trek?
Yes. The trek rapidly gains altitude. Proper hydration, rest, and gradual ascent help prevent AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Carry Diamox if needed (consult a doctor first).
Let me know if you’d like these in a visual format or want to add a few pro tips for first-time high-altitude trekkers!
1. Cardiovascular Fitness:
Why it is important: You may have to walk continuously for 6-8 hours during the trek.
What to do:
Walking or jogging 4-5 km daily
Cycling or swimming (20-30 minutes)
Stair climbing
2. Leg strength and endurance:
3. Backpack training:
You will have to carry a bag weighing 7-10 kg on the trek.
Do weighted walks 2-3 times a week.
4. Hiking Practices (if possible):
Additional Tips:
Break-in shoes: Don’t wear new shoes on the trek, try them on beforehand and get them fitted.
Breathing exercises: Pranayama and deep breathing will improve oxygen usage.
Hydration habit: Make it a habit to drink 3-4 liters of water daily.
Meditation: Practice breathing process, inhale and exhale.
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