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Best Treks in Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand

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Garhwal Himalayas are one of the most picturesque and enchanting places that are blessed with abundant natural beauty. This paradisiacal destination is laden with spellbound imageries, breathtaking landscapes, lovely meadows, gurgling streams, massive glaciers, and charming rivers. The pristine beauty of the place has made it an enviable place that attracts tourist from around the world and ensures a perfect vacation to them. Trekking in Garhwal offers myriad opportunities to the adventure-enthusiasts to explore the mysteries of nature while enjoying their favorite sport.

These Himalayan ranges are bordered by Punjab on west and Nepal Himalayas on the eastern side. Apart form adventure sports like mountaineering, trekking, rock climbing etc., one can also get chance to visit the sacred shrines that are dotted through out. Garhwal is considered a sacred place by Hindu devotees who undertake an arduous and difficult journey in order to pay their homage to their revered deities.

Trekking in Garhwal is a challenging experience that involves scaling lofty peaks and difficult treks. The trekking tour takes the pilgrims to the holy places like Kedarnath, Gangotri, Panch Kedar, and Yamunotri. The spiritual fulfillment associated with these holy visits is unparallel and can leave an everlasting imprint upon the hearts and minds of devotees. Million of people come to Garhwal to take the holy baths that are supposed to wash their sins away. The trekking can be enjoyed both in summer as well as in winters.

The summer treks will take the tourists to a greater height (about 4628 meters) than the winter ones that involve trekking unto 2500 meters. In ancient times, pilgrims used to cover this long and difficult terrain even when roads and other means of transport were not available. There are numerous wilderness trails that take one through the dense forests of pine, rhododendron, and oak; lush green valleys; pleasant meadows, meandering rivers, and mighty glaciers.

Har Ki Dun Trek

Located amidst Garhwal Himalayas, Har ki dun trek is a beautiful valley that is flanked by deep dense forests and lofty mountain peaks. These forests are rich in the trees of pine, walnut, chinar and abound in wildlife of several types. Har ki dun trek is a moderate passage that takes one to the unfolded mysteries of Garhwal region and offers a number of opportunities to nature lovers to have a glimpse of the alluring landscapes.

As per an ancient legend, this is the place from where Pandavas of Mahabharata made their journey to heaven. There are numerous attractions here that catch the fancy of the tourist. The pleasurable sights of Jaundar Glacier are worth the admiration. As one treks through the coniferous forests, one can have the unforgettable experiences of his life. Ornithologists and bird-watchers get several chances to watch the rich bird life that form a part of the renowned Govind National Park. From the top of the peak, the visuals are mesmerizing.

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Dayara Bugyal is a panoramic meadow that lies amidst ice-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Popularly known as “nature’s gardens”, it is one of the most popular scenic destinations that are favored by skiers and are visited by thousands of adventure-lovers every year.

Attractions of the Place

Situated amidst the breathtaking landscapes that remain covered with snow, Dayara Bugyal has a number of thrilling activities for the visitors to enjoy. The fascinating surroundings including Barnala Tal that form the enchanting backdrop of this destination. As the winter season approaches, the place becomes a paradise. Blessed with some of the best slopes of India, Dayara Bugyal attracts the adventure seekers by its virgin beauty and myriad opportunities.

The ski slopes are excellent to ski in the months of winter. These slopes are stretched over an area of 28 square kilometers. The place is an attraction for the ski-lovers from all around the world. The panoramic view that these lovely slopes present is truly enchanting. Barnala Lake that lies in the vicinity of the place is a favorite camping place for the tourists. Skiing is a memorable experience at Dayara Bugyal. To reach here, one has to drive upto Raithal village and then trek a short distance of about eight kilometer. Another way is through Barsu village which lies near Bhatwari; from here, a trekking distance of 6 kms takes one to the destination.

Other Attractions

Besides skiing, tourists can enjoy a whole lot of other adventure sports including trekking, camping, mountaineering, and rock climbing. The place is a haven for photographers who can capture its captivating beauty.

Accommodation Facilities

Accommodation facilities are available at Bhatwari. One can also use huts of villagers for staying purposes.

Chandrashila Summit Trek

Chandrashila is one of the most popular treks in the Garhwal Himalayas. From the top of this a trekker can get a view of hundred-eighty degree sight of the Indian Himalayas; this can be reached through a simple trek which starts from the Sari village. One can get an ideal ski course from snow which is gathered on the grassy slopes.

The duration of this trek is seven days, on the first day all the people that take part in the trekking are asked to meet at the Tourist Rest House, GMVN Muni-ki-Reti in Rishikesh and have dinner and spend the night over here. On the second day journey of 180 kms to Ukhimath by road, the trekkers get packed lunch and there is a night halt at the tourist rest house in Ukhimath. Third day trek  at a distance of 8 kms from Devariyatal with packed lunch the trekkers start their day, then in the afternoon they come 8 kms back to Ukhimath, then there is dinner and overnight in the tourist rest house.

Fourth day of the journey covering a distance of 35 kms driving to Chopta with lunch packed, and overnight stay and dinner in the tourist rest house in Chopta. The 5th day trek which is 5 kms from Chandrashila via Tungnath, then 5 kms back to Chopta, where there is dinner and night halt in Chopta. On the sixth day you can go for local sightseeing and after having lunch  drive to Ukhimath have dinner and night halt at Ukhimath. On the seventh day after covering a distance of 180 kms people reaches Rishikesh and the tour gets completed.

Gun Hill Trek

Gun Hill is the second highest peak of the famous hill station Mussoorie. Having an altitude of 2540 meters above sea level, this panoramic place is an excellent place for trekking. Located near Mall road, one can have the enchanting views of Doon Valley and Himalayan mountain ranges from here. The place got its name from the fact that during the colonial period, a gun was fired every day at noon so that people could adjust their watches. Later, after India got free, the gun was removed from here and a water tank was placed there.

Accessibility

The place is accessible by a ropeway that carries the tourist to the top of Gun Hill in just four minutes. The length of the ropeway is about 400 meters and was set up in the year 1970. Such a thrilling ride gives an immeasurable pleasure to the riders. Another way of reaching the destination is by trekking through Mall road. By following this trekking route, one can reach here in 20 minutes.

From the top of this amazing site, one can have the excellent views of the surrounding mountain peaks like Nag Tibba, Bandarpoonch and other picturesque places like Gangotri, Srikantha, and Pithwara. Gun Hill is a haven for the tourists seeking a pleasurable recluse in the lap of nature. This picture-perfect place is a delight for the photographers who can capture some of the most spectacular imageries on their reels. The path covered by trekking is more enticing than the ropeway method.

At the top of the peak, one can buy souvenirs for their families and friends. A number of eateries and stalls are also available to tourists. With the help of telescopes placed on the top of the peak, one can enjoy the panoramic views of Gangotri.

Kuari Pass Trek

Kuari pass is located in the Garhwal Himalaya’s snowy heart. It is situated in the district of the Chamoli, which comes under the state of Uttarakhand which is known as a hilly state. The altitude location of this place is about three thousand five hundred sixty five meters over the level of Sea. This place enchants the tourists and trekkers through its breathtaking beauty. Kuari pass is very much famous by the name of the Curzon’s Trail. This place got this name because India’s Viceroy in the year 1905 was Lord Curzon.

If you want to see the highest peaks of the great Himalaya, then Kuari pass is a best point to have the view of the peaks. If you will face the north side you will get the view of the Trishul which is on the east side and on the west side there is Kedarnath. Garhwal region’s northern portion is very much famous within the American and European trekkers. From the Kuari pass, there is one permanent view of the twin peaks that is Nanda Devi, and more Dunagiri, Dronagiri, Devasthan, Hathi Ghoda parvat and Bethartoli.

At this place you will enjoy the meditation, on the spot of Tapovan. Within the surrounding of the pure nature and cool atmosphere, you will feel like a heaven. Not only human beings do the meditation over this land but also the Hindu God did meditation at this place, that’s why this place got the name that is Shivling. Spend some time at Tapovan, and feel the ambience of the nature. try to stay their to get the view of the sunset and sunrise at the Bhagirathi and Shivling peaks, it is a very beautiful and rare experience for the tourists like you.

Khatling Sahastra Tal Trek

The glacier of Khatling is on the side at the basis of the Bhilangana River. It is said by people that an outer fairy tried to lure Lord Shiva. She was spurned by him and transformed into a liquid appearance and so the Bhilangana River was originated.

Sahasra Tal is to the west and Masar Tal is to the east of the Khatling glacier. One can enjoy the natural and pictorial beauty of the Bhilangana Valley. The Jogin group, Meru and Kirti Stambha have the superlative view of the lynching glaciers and snow capped peaks.

The whole trek is enclosed by stunning luxuriant green meadows and thick forest. The colour of myriad flowers is worth looking in the rainy season. There are small streams which have to be crossed by the trekkers with the improvising log bridges.

The trekkers love this place as there are many spots which have some wonderful and breathtaking view. The people who are new in trekking have to be very alert and go with the trekkers who are experienced. This is a place which is very famous among the people and many of them come from far and distant places to enjoy trekking. There are many places for accommodation like some hotels, tourists’ bungalows, Forest lodges, Public Works Department Houses and Villages. The unforgettable experience of these spots will make you remember this trek for your life time and you may suggest some other group of trekkers to visit this place.

Tips Before Trip:

The trekkers or tourists are required to go in groups so they can help the other members. Take some food along with you. People who are new to trekking should go along the groups who have experience in trekking. Tourists should carry woolen clothes, good pair of shoes and a stick along with them. Do not throw the left over food any where on the route. Also do not forget to carry a long rope along with you which can help you anywhere if needed.

Dodi Tal Trek

Trekking in Garhwal can be enjoyed at Dodi Tal which lies at an altitude of 3024 meters. This trek route begins at Uttarkashi and is while going from Kalyani takes the tourist to Agoda. The trek path from Agoda to the final destination is steep. The entire path is covered with dense forests of rhododendron and oak.

Kedarnath-Vasuki Trek

The trekking of Kedarnath and Vasuki Tal altitude is about three thousand five hundred eighty four. This is not just a trekking point but it is also famous as a religious destination. There is a fabulous temple which was constructed at the base land of the Peak Kedarnath, this was made by the Pandavas. Millions of pilgrims come to this place to take a darshan of Lord Shiva, which is on the south eastern side. The starting point of the trekking is Gauri Kund. Here you can reach very easily through bus or car. There is a hot water spring which is known as Sulphur spring. Here you can get refreshed. The Mandakini River has been followed for trekking from the Gaurikund to Rambara. This trekking route is steep, that’s why this trekking is very difficult to climb, but it is also challenging and adventurous.

On the way of trekking, there are a number of beautiful waterfalls. If you don’t want a much dangerous trekking route then you can try the easier which starts from the Rambara to the Kedarnath. The trekking route of the Vasuki Tal and Kedarnath is a climbing route with the goat track. The Mandakini Valley and Chaukhamba peaks are tremendously attractive factors of the Kedarnath and Vasuki Tal trekking. When you reach the last destination of the trekking that is Vasuki Tal, you have to go downwards, around one kilometer. The expanse of the Tal is around one kilometer and the water of this is very clean and glowing, such clean water is hard to find anywhere in the city area.

You feel that each and every aspect of the Kedarnath Mountains is filled by beauty that’s why every characteristic just mesmerizes the tourists. The lake which is located here is also blessed by the beauty. Experiencing the trekking at Badrinath and Vasuki Tal is not only adventurous but also beautiful. for staying, there are tourist bungalows and hotels at Kedarnath, Gaurikund and also Vasuki Tal. So, there is no worry about accommodation.

Gangotri-Kedarnath Trek

Gangotri Kedarnath trekking route abounds in scenic imageries that attract a large number of tourists and adventure-seekers every year. Being deeply associated with religious sentiments of the Hindu pilgrimages, the sacred destinations of Gangotri and Kedarnath are the centers of attraction to the devotees.

This holy route from Gangotri to Kedarnath has been taken by the pilgrims since ancient times when roads were not even laid down. Famous temple at Kedarnath is revered by millions of people who come here to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. Gangotri Kedarnath route of trekking takes about 15-18 days and its difficulty level is medium. It is best to do trekking here in the months of September and October. Months between April and June are also ideal for the trekkers.

Gangotri Nandanvan Trek

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Gangotri is a picturesque place that abounds in dense forests of deodars and cascading gorges. These are interspersed with the waters of the mighty Bhagirathi River. Gangotri Nandanvan Trekking is an ideal sport for adventure lovers who get myriad opportunities of mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking, boulder-hopping, and traversing difficult glaciers. The trek-route is not very difficult and can be perused by amateurs also.

In order to reach Gangotri, one has to travel to Kedarnath first. This trek starts for Bhagirathi River and takes the tourists through the jungles and grasslands. From Lata, the distance to Gangotri is just 5 hrs drive. The main trekking expedition starts from here.

Panch Kedar Trek

The Panch Kedar Trekking admits all the 5 sacred shrines related to the Hindu legends. All the five shrines are located in the mystic Kedar Valley. At Kedarnath, located at the start of the River Mandakini, The Shiva Linga, is a simple natural rock that corresponds the hump of huge Bull. Madmaheshwar, located at the middle of Chaukhamba Peak is at a height of 3500m.Over here the sacred Ling is idolized as a centre point or (navel). Tungnath is the third sacred shrine where it is that the arms of Lord Shiva had appeared. This temple is the highest temple in and around of Garhwal located at a height of 3810m.Chandrashila Temple is located 500m above at Tungnath.

The bird’s eye view of the Mighty Himalayas is a pleasure to the eyes. Rudranath is a sacred place where it is said that Lord Shiva’s face had arrived. There is a rock temple here where Shiva Mukha is idolized. To reach this mystic place, you need to trek through the luscious dense forest and alpine meadows. There is also a cave Temple where the idol of Lord Shiva is idolized in entangled hair form.

The Panch Kedar Trek offers you the opportunity to have a quick view of the mighty Garhwal Himalaya. The Garhwal Himalaya houses some of the highest peaks in (India). Chaukhamba (7138m), Nanda Devi (7817m) and Trishul (7120m).The Garhwal Himalaya is the source of the sacred rivers Yamuna and Ganga. They house some of the sacred shrines like Kedarnath and Badrinath, Valley of Flowers National Park, Benog Reserve, Nanda Devi Forest.

Nestled in the Peaks of Garhwal Himalayas are the five shrines that are of great significance for the Hindus.

The Mountain View from all these shrines is enchanting and the ravines of this mountain offer a huge thunder of Flora and fauna. The inhabitants of this region are very friendly and kind.

Gangotri Tapovan Route

It is a highly enjoyable trek that offers several opportunities to the tourists to enjoy adventurous sorts like mountaineering, trekking, glacier traversing etc. As one passes from Gaumukh to Nandanvan, he comes to have a glimpse of Chatturangini and Gangotri glaciers. The onward journey the tourists get to see many beautiful sites like Sudarshana, Bhagirathi, Shivalinga, Thelu, and Kedar. This route gives the unparallel experiences of Trekking in Garhwal.

Valley of Flowers

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, this National Park, situated in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India, is a place of pristine beauty. Located in the Garhwal ranges of the Himalayas, this UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and its exceptional natural beauty. This mystic valley is richly diverse in flora and fauna and is home to rare and endangered species like the very elusive snow leopard and the musk deer (used for preparing musk perfume). The gentle slopes of the valley directly contrasts the rugged high ranges surrounding it (Nanda Devi peak at a height of 7,817 meters being one of them).

Due to its location, this beautiful valley has remained hidden to the outside world for a very long time and even now it is more or less untouched. This beautiful valley is covered in snow for 7 months of the year and hence is only accessible in the months of June to October and the flowers are in full bloom during this period. One can trek to this valley from Govindghat and it takes around 6 to 7 days for the round trip. This place is a delight for nature lovers and shutter bugs and one can truly experience the feeling of heaven on earth.

Roopkund Trek

Lying at a height of more than 5000 meters above sea level, Roopkund comprises of lovely lake that is surrounded by a number of ice-laden peaks. The trekking journey starts from Rishikesh and then makes way along River Pindar. One should take the help of a guide to undertake this difficult trek.

Mussoorie Nag Tibba

This trek takes the tourists from Dhanaulti to Morina Dhar. As one passes form Swargarohini, the trek path becomes alluring and pleasant. One can get to see a number of flora as well as fauna on the way to Nanda Devi.

A number of other routes that can be taken while Trekking in Garhwal are Kauri Pass, Kalsi-Lakhamandal, Rishikesh- Ganga Trek, Har ki Doon etc. The experience is awesome and one can enjoy a great vacation while exploring the challenges posed by snow-covered mountains through their rugged terrains.

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