Overview
Overview
At an altitude of 11,700ft, the Har ki Dun trek is in all senses, a gateway to heaven. A snow-specked paradise for winter fanatics on one hand and adorned by alpine meadows, and pine forests for all those who seek solace in the embrace of nature on the other, it is a paradise for trekkers, be it beginners or experienced ones. Nestled on the western edge of Garhwal in Uttarkashi district, the Har ki Dun trek isn't just a trek consisting of picturesque views but also has rich cultural and mythological significance. Many locals believe that the land belongs to none other than Duryodhana from the epic Mahabharata. The legend goes that a clan devoted to the Kauravas lived close to the village of Osla and built a temple to pay their respects to him. That temple exists even today. On the other hand, this trek is one of the oldest Himalayan trekking trails. The name Har ki Dun translates to “Valley of Gods” signifying its other spiritual significance regarding the myth. It is believed that this was the route that was taken by the Pandavas on their ascend to heaven, which is why it earns its name as the stairway to heaven trek. It also provides a major source for the Yamuna River System. The diverse flora and fauna that you get to spend time listening to is a magical experience in itself and camping by the flowing riverside, listening to the relentless streams of water gives you the kind of peace that makes you forget all about the hustling and bustling noises of metropolitan cities. The people, places, and the whole trail capture an insight into a different world as compared to what we’ve seen in our daily lives.
The trek provides a spectacular view of Swargrohini peaks, Bandarpoonch, as well as Black peak. The trail leads you to villages that have been here since 2000 years ago and meeting the locals gives you a glimpse into their lives. A perfect spot for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts as well as people who love to indulge in photography from time to time, the Har ki Dun trek is truly a blessing. Some of the best attractions of the Har ki Dun trek are the above-mentioned temple in the village of Osla, a 5000-year-old structure carved out from wood.
Har ki Dun trek is suitable for any beginner and proves to be exciting for even an experienced trekker. The Har ki Dun trek difficulty is rated from easy to moderate and provides a good overall experience. The best time to visit Har ki Dun is during the summer and post-monsoon season.
The Har ki Dun valley is famous for its orchids and especially rhododendrons, which are specially grown in this region. The flora and fauna mixed with rich culture and immense historical importance secure its position among top contenders in the list of best treks in Uttarakhand. Trek to Har ki Dun takes a total of 7 days and starts from a small village named Sankri situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.
6 Nights 7 Days
Available on request
Inclusions/Exclusions
What is included in the tour
Accommodation: 2 Nights in a Homestay in Sankri on a triple-sharing basis. 4 Nights Tented Accommodation on a triple sharing basis.
Transportation: Surface transfer from Dehradun - Sankri - Dehradun by Sumo / Bolero / Tempo Traveler (Depending on the number of travelers).
Meals: All veg meals from Day 1st Dinner to Day 7th Day breakfast.
Snacks: Morning / Evening Tea / Coffee with light snacks and soup while on the trek.
Camping logistics: Tent, Sleeping bags, Mattresses, Dining tent, Toilet tent
Trek Leader: Qualified and Experienced Trek leader and support staff.
Permits: All necessary fees and permits.
Trekking Equipment: Gaiters, Micro Spikes, and Rope if required.
Safety Equipment: Basic First Aid kit with Oximeter and Oxygen Cylinder
Guide ratio: 1:10
What is NOT included in the tour
Any expenses of personal nature.
Meals during transit.
Any insurance of any kind.
Any fees and permits (for non-Indians).
Unscheduled delay due to landslide.
Cost Escalation due to “ Force Majeure and Evacuation charges”.
Anything not mentioned explicitly in the above program.
Note: You can apply for travel insurance prior to the trek.
Bag offloading cost is Rs 1500 (maximum weight should not be more than 10 kg)
Highlights
What makes this tour special
HIGHLIGHTS
What makes this tour special
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Duration: 7D/6N
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Maximum altitude: 11,675 ft
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Har Ki Dun Trek Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
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Har Ki Dun Trek Distance: 47 KM
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Temperature: 10℃ to 15℃ during the day and 2℃ to -5℃ during the night
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Best Time to do Har ki Dun Trek: April to Mid-June
Itinerary
Day 01 : Drive From Dehradun To Sankri Base Village (198 Kms, 8 Hrs Drive)
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The group will assemble at the pickup point at 06:30 AM.
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We'll drive towards Sankri village which is the base camp for the Har Ki Dun Trek.
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Upon reaching Sankri, we'll check in to our designated homestay. The rest of the day is at leisure and travelers are advised to rest.
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In the evening, Dinner will be served followed by an overnight stay in Sankri Village.
Note: The pickup point will be Dehradun Railway Station. (tentative)
Day - 02
Drive from Sankri to Taluka (12 Kms, 1 Hr Drive) Trek to Pauni Garaat (10 Kms, 4 Hrs Trek)
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After early morning breakfast, we will head towards Taluka which is the starting point for the trek.
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After a long drive to Taluka, we will start our trek to Pauni Garaat. The trail is a blend of slanting slopes and thick forests of chestnuts, chinars, walnuts, and willows. You will also see some of the most beautiful cascading waterfalls.
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We will reach the base camp just in time to see the sun setting and spreading its golden pool of light all over the vast expanse of land.
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Dinner followed by an overnight stay at Pauni Garaat basecamp.
Day 03 :
Trek from Puani Garaat to Kalkatiyadhaar (8 Kms, 4 Hrs)
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After morning tea and breakfast, we will start our trek towards Har ki Dun Valley.
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We will be traversing through Osla village. After crossing the bridge over the Supin river, the trekking trail reaches a ridge named Kalkatiyadhar, from where you will get the first view of Har Ki Dun Valley.
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Further, the trail passes through lush green meadows before finally giving way to our campsite.
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Dinner followed by an overnight stay in camps at Kalkatiyadhar.
Day 04
Trek from Kalkatiyadhar to Har-Ki-Dun | Back to Kalkatiyadhar (14 Kms, 7 Hrs)
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After waking up to the majestic view of Swargarohini peaks, we will have breakfast with stunning landscapes in the backdrop.
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The trekking trails start from lush green meadows and soon you get to see sparkling waterfalls flowing relentlessly before reaching the Har ki Dun valley.
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After spending a few peaceful moments here, witnessing the magical landscapes, we will head back to the campsite.
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Dinner followed by an overnight stay in tents.
Day 05 :
Trek from Kalkatiyadhaar to Puani Garaat Via Seema (8 Kms, 4 Hrs)
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After early morning tea, we will start our descending trek to the Puani Garant campsite.
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Upon reaching the campsite, the rest of the day is spent at leisure.
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Dinner followed by an overnight stay on base camp.
Day 06
Trek from Puani Garaat to Taluka | Drive to Sankri from Taluka (12 Kms, 1 Hr Drive)
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The day starts with breakfast and early morning tea. After which, we will proceed on the same trails that captivated us during our ascend.
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Once reaching Taluka, we will drive towards Sankri where we will spend the last few hours of our trekking excursion.
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Check in to our designated homestays. Dinner followed by an overnight stay in Sankri.
Day 07
Drive from Sankri to Dehradun (198 Kms, 8 Hrs Drive)
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After breakfast, we will start our return journey from Sankri to Dehradun.
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We will reach Dehradun in the evening. The group dissembles with fond memories of the trek.
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End of Tour.
Things to Carry
Rucksack:
You must pick a good quality backpack with a comfortable fit and straps that won’t give you shoulder pain. You can check out your nearest Decathlon store for a good trekking backpack.
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Day Bag / Day Pack:
When you head towards the summit, you are required to carry only a few necessary items and for that, you need a day backpack as you will leave your bigger one on the campsite.
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Hiking Shoes :
Durable footwear designed for rugged terrains.
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Floaters or Sandals:
Although the entire trek requires a good quality shoe, you still need to let your feet breathe to avoid chafing and blisters. When you are at the camp, a good pair of sandals and floaters will help you to move freely.
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Tees / Tshirts:
You must keep at least three pairs of quick dry tees so that you can wash them in between stops for proper hygiene.
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Poncho:
A poncho is an evolved form of a raincoat that provides coverage to your body as well as your bag and ensures total water protection from rain.
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Quick Dry Towel:
A quick dry towel will help in maintaining proper hygiene. It must dry quickly because the wet fabric will only increase the chance of bacterial growth.
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Sanitizer:
Essential for maintaining cleanliness while trekking.
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Sun Cap / Hat:
A lightweight sun cap with side flaps is perfect to keep your head cool and avoid sunburns on a sunny day.
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Sunscreen SPF 40+:
To avoid sunburns and chafing, you need to put on sunscreen as well as cold cream.
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Water Bottle (Re-usable):
Hydration is extremely important when it comes to trekking. Carrying a water bottle that you can refill with Himalayan water is a must.
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Personal Toileteries:
A bag with all your essentials including napkins, toothpaste, sanitizers, paper soap, etc should be carried in a ziplock bag.
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Personal Medication / First Aid:
A few cuts and bruises are almost inevitable when you are on a trek so carrying a medical kit with bandages, Dettol, etc is necessary.
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Sun Glasses / Reading Glasses:
Photochromatic glasses are specs that are designed to transform into anti-glare shades depending upon exposure to the sun. They are good when it comes to eye protection but one can also opt for clip-on glasses etc.
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Charger:
To keep your electronic devices powered during the trip.
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Power Bank:
Ensures your devices stay charged when there are no outlets.
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Personal Documents & ID's:
Identification proofs like Aadhar Card, Drivers License.
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Laundry Bag (Waterproof):
In case your clothes get wet or your garments don’t dry, you can carry them in polythene. However, make sure that all the plastic that you are carrying into the woods leaves with you. Don’t litter in the mountains.
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Track Pants:
A good pair of track pants made of polyester will let your skin breathe. They’re lightweight, dry easily, and comfortable to walk around in. You can easily avoid chafing and rashes by investing in a good pair of track pants.
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Trekking Shoes:
A good trekking shoe is comfortable, provides ankle support, and has a good grip as well. They shouldn’t be chunky, instead, they should be lightweight and sturdy.
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Cotton Socks:
Cotton socks are extremely comfortable to move around in and are lightweight as well which is why you can always count on a good pair of cotton socks while trekking. However, keep in mind to change them and avoid wearing them when they are wet.
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Woolen Socks:
A good pair of woolen socks, especially merino, are comfortable, limit odors and provide adequate insulation from the cold so you can wear them at night.
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Woolen Gloves:
Insulated gloves help in maintaining proper body heat in your hands and also provide a better grasp on trekking poles.
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Main Jacket:
It’s emphasized that you need to carry proper layers so you can avoid getting cold which is why you need to carry a heavy jacket that you can put on over your other clothes.
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Woolen Cap:
A woolen cap will help prevent cold when you ascend to high altitude. You can also cover your ears to avoid any pain and discomfort you might face in them when going at high altitudes.
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Hoodie:
A versatile layering option for various temperatures.
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Scarf / Balaclava:
Along with sun rays and chilly winds, you also get hit by dirt and grime during treks which is why it's important to carry a scarf or balaclava so you can cover your face when needed.
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Head Lamp:
You can’t rely on moonlight when you are in the mountains. A torch or even a headlamp with a fresh pair of batteries is always a good idea to bring along.
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Trekking Pole:
The trekking pole assists in more than one way. It saves energy while also providing stability and helps you to maintain proper balance.
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Camera:
This should be obvious. To make sure that you get to capture all the great moments from your trek. Make sure that you have enough storage and some extra batteries as well.
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Riding Gear:
If your trip involves biking or motorcycling.
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Moisturiser & Cold Cream:
To avoid sunburns and chafing, you need to put on sunscreen as well as cold cream.
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Lip Balm:
Your lips can become chapped due to the harsh cold winds so it's important to keep them moisturized.
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Sanitary Pads:
Essential for feminine hygiene.
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Insect Repellent:
Guards against pesky bugs and insects.
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Cash:
Emergency funds for unexpected situations.
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Thermals:
Thermal is a piece of garment that helps in keeping your body warm in cold temperatures. It is a necessary item that you need when going on a high-altitude trek.
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Snacks / Dryfruits / Energy Bar:
Provides quick energy on the go.
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Positive Attitude:
The most important item for a successful trek or trip, keeping your spirits high and adaptable to the challenges of the journey.
Cost
13,000/- per person