This extraordinary trek from Trip to Trek takes you to Gaumukh - the sacred glacial source of the Ganga River - offering a powerful blend of thrilling Himalayan adventure and deep spiritual connection. Starting from the vibrant pilgrim town of Gangotri, your journey winds through the pristine Gangotri National Park, where every step brings you closer to nature's grandeur. More than just a trek, it's a transformative experience that lets you stand at the birthplace of India's holiest river while surrounded by some of the Himalayas' most awe-inspiring landscapes.
The Gaumukh Tapovan trek takes you on an unforgettable Himalayan adventure through dense forests, sprawling glaciers, and high-altitude meadows. As you follow the Bhagirathi River to its glacial source at Gaumukh, you'll be surrounded by towering peaks at every turn. The highlight comes at Tapovan - a spectacular meadow campsite where you'll witness the perfect pyramid of Mt. Shivling and the majestic Bhagirathi massif glowing golden at sunset, creating one of the most breathtaking views in the Garhwal Himalayas.
This trek's soul lies in reaching Gaumukh, where you can watch the mighty Bhagirathi River being born from melting glacial ice. As you carefully navigate crevasses and witness ice crystals transforming into the first drops of this sacred river, you'll experience nature's raw power in its most awe-inspiring form. It's a humbling moment that connects you to both the spiritual significance and incredible geology of this special place.
Spanning 41km over five days entirely above 10,000 feet, this trek demands respect. With Gangotri as one of our highest base camps, altitude acclimatization is crucial. Trekkers must be prepared for long days, rock-fall zones, and the steep moraine climb to Tapovan that tests both physical stamina and mental resilience. While challenging, first-time trekkers can successfully complete this journey with proper preparation and guidance from Trip to Trek's experienced team.
The Gaumukh Tapovan experience transcends ordinary trekking - it's a pilgrimage through sacred landscapes where every step reveals new wonders. Whether you're drawn by spiritual calling, mountaineering challenge, or simply the chance to witness one of nature's most powerful creations, this trek offers rewards that last long after you've returned home. With its perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural significance, it's no wonder this remains one of India's most iconic Himalayan journeys.
Drive distance: 242 km | Drive Duration: 8 hours
Transport will be arranged from Hotel Grand Legacy Dehradun at 5.00 am. The transport cost is ₹1350 (additional 5% GST) per trekker (one-way) (₹2700 for both onward and return journeys). These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
Trek Distance: 10 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours
Moderate. Initial 300 m steep ascent followed by a very gradual ascent all the way.
Trek Distance: 5 km | Trek Duration: 3 hours
Moderate. Initial 100 m ascent to get back on the trail. Very gradual ascent all the way to Bhojbasa
Trek Distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 9 hours
Difficult. Gradual ascent for 2.5 hours. 2 hours glacier walk followed by 1 hour of moderate ascent. Final 1.5 hours is a steep ascent.
Trek Distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 5 hours
Moderate Difficult. Level trail to Chirbasa.
Trek Distance: 14 km | Trek Duration: 8 hours
Tricky descent over bouldery section
Drive distance: 242 km | Drive Duration: 8 hours
The transport cost is ₹1350 (additional 5% GST) per trekker (one-way) (₹2700 for both onward and return journeys). These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending the weather conditions and the route you take. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons.
If the buffer day is used, you have to pay us Rs. 2,500 per day (INR) +5% GST. The money will be collected by the Trek Leader only if we use the buffer day.
This depends completely on the weather conditions on the trek and the call will be taken by the trek leader.
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Backpack (with rain cover) | 50–60L with padded straps |
| Daypack (with rain cover) | 20–30L (if off-loading backpack) |
| Trekking Poles / Walking Stick | 1 |
| Water Bottle | 2 thermos flasks (1L each) |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electrolyte |
| Item | Summer | Winter |
|---|---|---|
| Quick-dry collared T-shirt | 2–3 | 2–3 (Full sleeves) |
| Fleece T-shirt (Full sleeves) | 2 | 2–3 |
| Fleece Jacket | 2 | 2 |
| Down Jacket | 1 (available on rent) | 1 (available on rent) |
| Thermal Inner (Top & Bottom) | 1 pair | 2 pairs |
| Quick-dry Trek Pants | 2–3 pairs | 2–3 pairs |
| Waterproof Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Woollen Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Poncho / Rain Jacket & Pants | 1 | 1 |
| Lightweight Quick-dry Towel | 1 | 1 |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Head Torch | 1 |
| Sun Cap | 1 |
| Woollen Cap | 1 |
| Balaclava | 1 |
| Buff / Neck Gaiter | 1 |
| Sunglasses | 1 |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Shoes (High ankle) | 1 pair |
| Flip-flops | 1 pair |
| Cotton Socks | 2-3 pairs |
| Woollen Socks | 2 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 pair |
| Microspikes | 1 pair |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Toothpaste | 1 |
| Toilet Paper | 1 roll |
| Hand Sanitizer | 1 |
| Lip Balm | 1 |
| Light Towel | 1 |
| Moisturizer | 1 |
| Sunscreen (SPF 30-40) | 1 |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pain Reliever | 1 strip |
| Motion Sickness Medicine | 1 strip |
| Fever/Headache Medicine | 1 strip |
| Allergy Medicine | 1 strip |
| Diarrhoea Medicine | 1 strip |
| Cream/Spray for Sprains | 1 |
| Antiseptic Cream | 1 |
| ORS | 1-2 packets |
| Band-aids | 5-6 |
| Cotton | 1 small roll |
| Gauze | 2 pieces |
| Scissors | 1 |
| Tweezers | 1 |
| Elastic Bandage | 1 |
| Diamox 125/250 mg | 1 strip |
| Diamox 500 mg | 4-5 pills |
| Nifedipine 20 mg | 1 strip |
| Dexamethasone (4 mg) | 1 strip |
With years of experience in Himalayan adventures, Trip To Trek offers:
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