The Gaumukh Tapovan Trek is indeed a captivating journey that takes you to the source of the River Ganga. The trek begins from Gangotri Temple, a sacred place for Hindus, and leads to the Gaumukh, which is the snout of the Ganga River.
Breif Description Of The Program : Gaumukh–Tapovan Trek: A Journey to the Source of the Ganga
Embark on a breathtaking nine-day expedition through one of the most spiritually resonant and visually stunning regions of the Indian Himalayas. The Gaumukh–Tapovan Trek offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, nature, and mythology.
Starting at the sacred Gangotri Temple, this trek follows the path to Gaumukh, the glacial snout of the Bhagirathi River — the source of the mighty Ganga. It was here, according to legend, that Bhakt Bhagirath performed intense penance to bring Mother Ganga from heaven to earth. Gaumukh is the origin of the holy river Bhagirathi, which becomes the Ganga after merging with the Alaknanda River at Dev Prayag.
Tapovan (The land of Meditation) : The name “Tapovan” comes from the ancient practice of meditation by sages and saints in this region. After visiting the Gaumukh Glacier, the trek takes you to the beautiful meadow of Tapovan. The place offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi. The region carries strong spiritual significance and is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
The trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to rocky terrains to glacial moraines. As you ascend to an altitude of around 4,400 meters, you’ll face challenges like river crossings, steep climbs, and traversing glaciers. Along the way, you’ll be treated to some of the most beautiful Himalayan landscapes. Snow-capped peaks like Mt. Shivling (6,543 m), Mt. Meru (6,630 m), and Kharchakund (6612m) dominate the skyline. The Bhagirathi Group of peaks—especially peaks I, II, and III—grace the eastern bank of the Gangotri glacier.
This trek holds deep spiritual meaning. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and many pilgrims seek blessings and connect with the divinity of the Himalayas during their journey.
Overall, the GaumukhTapovan trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
This expedition is open to YHAI members who are 15 years above and physically fit. Above 60 years will be allowed after approval of Programme Co-ordinator/Authorised Persons in offline mode.
Members who have done at least one high altitude trek (above 12000 ft)
Required Documents:
HOW TO REACH THE BASE CAMP:
Rishikesh is around 250 kms from Delhi. You can approach by air, train or by road. Nearest Airport is Jolly Grant Air Port. Nearest railway station is Rishikesh. State Transport buses are available from Delhi also.
HOW TO JOIN:
Members may apply online by paying requisite programme fee including online booking amount Rs 20500/- at www.yhaindia.org
For offline booking:
Members can also deposit the participation fee in any branch of Canara Bank giving the following details:
Offline Booking Process:
Members desirous of joining this programme may apply on the prescribed registration form duly supported by YHAI prescribed Medical Certificate along with or Deposit Slip/NEFT Challan Copy or a DD/Cheque of requisite amount Rs. 20500/- in favour of “Youth Hostels Association of India, Delhi State Branch” payable at New Delhi
ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES:
Accommodation in Hotel/Tent on sharing basis will be provided.
FOOD & WATER SUPPLIES:
Simple, nutritious vegetarian meals will be provided.
TRANSPORTATION:
Transportation from Rishikesh to Gangotri by Tempo Traveller/Jeep only one side will be provided. We can arrange the transportation from Uttarkashi to Rishikesh/Dehradun on payment basis. Participants will have to pay the transportation amount directly to the Driver.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS SHOULD BRING ALONG:
Essential Clothing and Gear:
Clothing:
Day Wise Schedule
Day 1: Reporting at Rishikesh (07.00 am) drive to Gangotri (Drive – 259 km)…
Start your adventure by driving from Rishikesh to Gangotri. Enjoy the scenic views along the way. Gangotri is situated at an elevation of 3,048 meters (10,000 feet). We will start early from Rishikesh so that we reach Gangotri by the evening.
Day 2: Rest Day at Gangotri
Take a day to acclimatize and soak in the stunning surroundings. Explore the nearby attractions of Gangotri Temple, including Surya Kund, the museum, and ashrams.
Day 3: Gangotri to Chirbasa (9 Km Trek)
After breakfast we will start our trek along the river Bhagirathi to reach Chirbasa (at an altitude of approx 3600 meter). The trek is a gradual ascent of 9kms to be covered in approx. 4hrs. Gangotri National Park check post is around 2 km away, where permits are checked
Day 4: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (5 km Trek)
AContinue your trek for 5kms to Bhojbasa at an elevation of 3,800 meters (12,467 feet), and the trek duration is around 3 hours. The barren terrain adds to the rugged beauty of the region. Bhojbasa offers breathtaking views of the Bhagirathi I, II, III. The route gets adventurous from here, passing through a couple of rock-fall zones. The ascent is gradual and the trek, comfortable. Carry a water bottle, which you can refill from the waterfalls and mountain streams on the route.
Day 5: Bhojbasa to Tapovan (09 kmTrek)
After breakfast, cross the River Bhagirathi by wire rope cable trolley and start 4kms trek towards Gaumukh- situated at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet). Enjoy the stark yet dramatic scenery; lookout for native bharal or blue sheep, and alpine birds.
The Shivling peak appears on your right, and straight ahead, looms the Bhagirathi massif. Carry enough water. From Gaumukh, start the steep ascend to Tapovan (at a height of 4300m) situated at the base of Mt. Shivling (6543m) that is also known as \\”Matterhorn of the East\\” by the early European visitors because of its similarity with the famous peak of Alps. The last kilometre is a near vertical climb to reach the top and involves crossing the Akash Ganga stream twice. It is indeed a challenging climb to Tapovan where you can camp for the night.
Day 6: Explore the Tapovan region and Shivling Base Camp, Yoga and meditate amidst the grandeur of Mt. Shivling and Bhagirathi Massif.
Day 7: Tapovan to Chirbasa via Gaumukh
Trek back from Tapovan to the wire rope trolley and cross Bhagirathi River back to Bhojbasa. Enroute we will visit Gaumukh. From there, continue the descend to Chirbasa which is 11kms away and takes about 5-6 hours.
Day 8: Chirbasa to Uttarkashi
From Chirbasa on the way back to Gangotri, a 9 km / 3hrs trek, it will take you back to Gangotri, for the return drive to Uttarkashi. Explore Harshil Valley and reach Uttarkashi in evening. On arrival, check into an accommodation.
Day 9: Programme ends after breakfast.
Conclude your memorable trek with a hearty breakfast
Facts
SAFETY & SECURITY:
Trained/expert camp leaders will be available for guidance… YHAI will not be responsible for any accidents, illness and any such unforeseen eventualities.
Note: Itinerary may change due to weather/local admin decisions.
Note:
A good level of physical fitness is essential to tackle the challenges of the trek. Regular exercise and stamina-building activities such as hiking, jogging, or cycling can help prepare the body for the demands of the trail.
SAFETY & SECURITY:
Trained/expert camp leaders will be available for guidance. Medicines will be available in the camp. First aid/ basic medical assistance shall be provided. While every care has been taken to ensure safety, The Youth Hostels Association of India, Delhi State Branch will not be responsible for any accidents, illness and any such unforeseen eventualities.
Special Casual leave:
The Trekking Expedition organized by Youth Hostels Association of India have the approval of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions (Dept. of Personnel and Training), Government of India, vide Office Order no. 28016/3/89-Estt (A), Dated 25 October, 1989. Participants working in the Central Govt. Organization can apply to the authorities concerned for availing special casual leave for the duration of the expedition. This leave can be sanctioned by their office up to 30 days in calendar year.
Certificates:
Participants, who successfully complete the trek and abide by the discipline of the program, will be awarded certificates.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
If found flouting the rules, your participation will be terminated with immediate effect.
Reporting Dates
13-09-2025
Cancellation Policy
CANCELLATION RULES:
In case you are unable to join this trek you will get 50% of the Programme Fee which is Rs. 10250 /- as refund, provided your online cancellation request is received before 31st August 2025 (positively). Any request received after the last date of cancellation will not be considered.
Any unforeseen event / strike or natural calamity will not be considered as a cause of cancellation. Refund will be given after completion of the programs.