Gangotri-Tapovan
Tracing the Ganges' source
Garhwal, Uttarakhand
-SIGNATURE-
22nd-29th May 2026
The Gangotri-Tapovan trek is an iconic, high-altitude journey in Uttarakhand, starting from the sacred town of Gangotri. It follows the Bhagirathi River to Gaumukh, the source of the river Ganga, before ascending steeply over challenging glacial terrain to the stunning alpine meadow of Tapovan. Known as a spiritual and challenging adventure, Tapovan offers unparalleled, up-close views of major Himalayan giants, most notably the magnificent Mount Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks, making it a truly rewarding experience for seasoned trekkers.
At A Glance
ITINERARY
Day 01
Your journey begins with a very long and scenic drive of 250 km. Starting from Dehradun, the road winds through the picturesque Garhwal Himalayas, often following the Bhagirathi river. You'll pass major points like Uttarkashi before finally reaching the sacred town of Gangotri. This journey is crucial for covering distance and achieving altitude. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and prepare for the necessary rest and acclimatization.
Day 02
This dedicated rest day is absolutely essential for safe trekking at these high altitudes. Spend the morning resting, hydrating, and taking short, gentle walks around the town. Post lunch, you can visit the revered Gangotri Temple and explore the local market for supplies or souvenirs. Proper acclimatisation ensures your body is prepared for the rapid altitude gain over the next few days.
Day 03
The trekking officially begins today! The path from Gangotri is well-marked and relatively gentle as it enters the Gangotri National Park. You trek alongside the Bhagirathi River through beautiful deodar forests. Chirbasa, meaning 'home of pines', is named for the pine trees that dominate the area. It is a stunning, riverside campsite where you will set up camp for the night.
Day 04
Today is a shorter, easier trekking day, perfect for further acclimatisation. The terrain becomes more barren as you move past the tree line; 'Bhoj' refers to the birch (Bhojpatra) trees, which become sparse here. You'll catch the first glimpse of the magnificent Bhagirathi peaks dominating the skyline. Bhojwasa is an expansive, cold, and windy plain that serves as the last major camp before the final push to Tapovan.
Day 05
This is the most challenging and rewarding day, involving a significant altitude gain. You first trek to Gaumukh (the snout of the Gangotri glacier) to witness the source of the Ganga. After crossing the glacier, the climb to Tapovan is a steep, rocky ascent. Tapovan, meaning 'forest of penance', is a breathtaking high-altitude meadow directly opposite the majestic Shivling peak and is home to several sadhus and unmatched views, a reward for your challenging day.
Day 06
After waking up to the spectacular views of Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi peaks, you begin your descent. The trail involves a careful, steep descent back down to the Gaumukh glacier crossing. Once across, you follow the familiar path along the river back to Bhojwasa. This long descent is managed in a shorter duration than the ascent, and you will set up camp again at Bhojwasa.
Day 07
Today is the longest day of walking, covering the entire distance from Bhojwasa back to Gangotri. The trail is mostly downhill or flat, making the 14 km manageable. You will pass through Chirbasa and then finally exit the national park boundary to reach the temple town of Gangotri. Check into your hotel, enjoy a hot meal, and celebrate the successful completion of the trek.
Day 08
Enjoy a final breakfast in the high Himalayas before you board your vehicle for the long drive back, tracing your route back through the mountains and finally concluding the trek as you arrive in Dehradun by evening.
Inclusions and Exclusions
- Transport:
Pick-up and drop-off from the designated starting point as per the itinerary (Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Kathgodam).
All sightseeing in a dedicated mountain-ready vehicle (Ertiga or similar). - Accommodation:
Comfortable guesthouses on the drives to and from the trailhead, homestays in villages, and alpine tents on the trekking trail. - Permits & Fees: Forest department entry fees and trekking permits.
- Trek : Guided trek with professional camping gear.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and dinner and breakfast for the remaining itinerary.
- Staff: English-speaking tour leader, experienced local guides, and camping staff.
- Insurance: Mandatory travel insurance.
- Personal Gear: Personal equipment (thermal wear, hiking poles, etc).
- Meals: Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Beverages: Any drinks including soft drinks, bottled water, or alcoholic beverages.
- Extra Tours: Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tips: Gratuities for the local guides, drivers, and hotel/lodge staff.
- Taxes: All applicable taxes and transactional fees.
- Contingency Fee: Any additional expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, road blocks or unrest, that result in an extension or change in the program, or emergency evacuation for medical reasons.