The seventh-day Gaumukh Tapovan Trek leads you around the Gangotri glacier to the location where the sacred river Ganga is thought to have its mouth. This trek mixes myth, spirituality, and thrilling adventure.
The Gangotri glacial expanse, which stretches from Gaumukh to the Chaukhamba massif at Badrinath, is roughly 24 km long and 6 to 8 km wide. We now have a trek route that traverses the whole length of this historic nation thanks to renowned mountaineers Shipton and Tilman.
The walk from Gaumukh to Tapovan is somewhat difficult. Although the Gangotri-Gaumukh trail is frequently used by pilgrims, the more difficult Gaumukh-Tapovan trail requires prior knowledge. It is appropriate for people who have completed a few high-altitude treks, like Roopkund, but not for novices.
The sages gave Gaumukh its name, which translates to “cow’s mouth” because it looks like a cow’s mouth when it opens. Hindus place a great deal of religious significance on this spot.
Every year, thousands of devotees travel to Gaumukh to pray and seek Maa Ganga’s blessings. One of the most important characters in Hindu mythology is Gaumukh.
Your departure from Dehradun should be scheduled for 6 a.m. You’ll fly 241 kilometers to Gangotri because the day will be longer. The eight-hour trek through the breathtaking highlands will be unforgettable. The first significant attraction will be the well-known hill station of Mussorie, which is only 35 kilometers from Dehradun. The Shivalik Ranges may be seen from the hill station. After a brief break in Dhanulti, Chamba, for lunch and some sightseeing, you will reach Uttarkashi, the home of the Gods. On the banks of the Bhagirathi River is Uttarkashi. You’ll be persuaded that you actually are in the Land of the Gods by all the temples and pious people. The lovely Harshil Village is reached by the Bhagirath River. The apple orchards in Harshil are famous for providing a scenic contrast to the city. The best place to spend a tranquil evening in the highlands is Harshil.
You’ll be eager to walk again once you see the light shining on the mountain summits in the morning. This will be a quick hike that lasts two to three hours with a gradual elevation. Now that the path is wider, you can see the Bhagirathi peaks more clearly. It will be simpler to walk on some landslide places than others. After the trek, you will reach Bhojwassa, a level location where you will stay in tents. The Bhojwasa was made from bhopatra trees, often known as birch trees, which are plentiful in the region. The valley is at its widest here, and Mount Shivling may be seen most clearly. Numerous houses in the igloo design, an ashram, a police station, and a rest house are present. For the duration of the current stay, these alternatives are possible but will need permission. After lunch, unwind at the campsite in the afternoon before spending a chilly night in the tents.
It’s time for the hardest and longest trip yet, so fuel up, pack a food, fill water bottles (there aren’t any water sources along the way), bring energy snacks, and get ready to be enthusiastic. From here, the trail becomes steeper and more dotted with large rock boulders. Although the glacier’s granite moraines make the ascent challenging, they also eliminate the need for technical gear. For a simpler ascent, use a trekking pole. The last leg of the journey to Tapovan is difficult, but once you get there and reach the well-known meadows where you can see Mt. Shivling in all its splendor, you’ll be glad you did. Sadhus travel to Tapovan from all over the world to meditate. Additionally, it serves as a base camp for excursions to Mount Shivling. It offers a greater perspective of Mount Shivling, which is recognized as one of the most revered and magnificent mountains in the entire world. The views of Mt. Meru and the Bhagirathi peaks should not be missed. The ideal place to relax after a strenuous hike is Tapovan. You and other mountain goats can be seen wandering throughout this area. Retire to your tent after an exhausting but enjoyable day.
The last few hours of the day can be enjoyed in front of ancient mountains that have been bathed in sunlight early in the morning. The neighboring peaks are engulfed in the magnificence of Mt. Shivling, which is more majestic than ever. They all combine to create an amazing scene. After breakfast, it’s time to relive these recollections. Pack a lunch and lots of water, exactly like you did before, as there aren’t any water sources. Yes, you must again travel the rough terrain and moraines of the glacier. As you navigate the stones, you’ll note that descending is more challenging than climbing. Go gently while keeping an eye on the actions. Retrace your steps while attempting to relive the incidents. After a steep descent to Gomukh, keep walking along the Bhagirathi River. A 6-7 hour trek will get you to Chirbassa. The same pine trees will then be where you started. It’s not surprising that you’ll be camping next to a river, amid mountains, and beneath pine trees.
When you awaken, you’ll remember that today is the last day of your voyage. It takes roughly 4-5 hours to complete the 9 kilometer hike to Gangotri. At streams and waterfalls, water bottles should be refilled. As you can no longer see the Bhagirathi and other mountain tops, say your farewell. A nice dinner and supper will be provided to you at the guest home. Pack your things and go back to Dehradun and with it to your lovely homes.
Enjoy one last cup of morning tea in the powerful land of Gangotri. Say your last goodbyes to your fellow trekkers, trade phone numbers, and share memories. transport a classy group picture before getting into the taxi that will transport you back to Dehradun. You will travel for eight hours along the Bhagirathi River and through mountains, valleys, and other landscapes. A river followed us on our journey. By 5 o’clock you will have reached Dehradun and will start your return trip as scheduled. Bring back many exciting memories, and make a commitment to visit the mountains again in the future.