dETAILED ITINERARY
Har Ki Dun Trek Overview
The Har Ki Dun Trek is a serene adventure nestled in the heart of the Indian Himalayas in Uttarakhand. Often referred to as the “Valley of Gods”, this trek offers a unique experience, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. From lush green meadows to ancient villages and snow-capped peaks, Har Ki Dun is a place where untouched nature meets deep historical and mythological charm.
Reaching a maximum altitude of 11,700 feet (3,566 m) with a base camp of 6,400 feet (1,950 m) at Sankri, this trek offers trekkers breathtaking views, giving a feeling of being on top of the world. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes including lush forests, tranquil meadows, and majestic mountains, immersing you in the pristine wilderness of Uttarakhand.
The best time to go on the Har Ki Dun Trek is autumn and spring when clear skies and pleasant weather add to the beauty of the trek. Though the journey is a bit challenging, it is suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers. Whether you are looking for solitude or an enriching experience in a group, this trek, lasting for 7 to 8 days and covering about 47 km, offers ample time to fully absorb the serene atmosphere and cultural richness of the region.
Mythological Significance and Historical Timeline
Har Ki Dun valley is full of mythological significance, often linked to the legend of the Pandavas of the Mahabharata. It is believed to be one of the places where they spent their last days before ascending to heaven. Nestled between the lofty peaks of the Swargarohini range, the valley is not only a site of mythology but is also rich in historical explorations. Local shepherds and traders have traversed this ancient route for centuries, adding to its historical charm.
Spiritual, Cultural and Natural Symphony
The Har Ki Dun Trek uniquely blends spiritual peace, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. As you travel through the meadows and quaint villages, you will come across the rich cultural traditions of the local Garhwali communities. Lush green meadows, ancient oak and pine forests, and majestic snow-capped peaks further add to the symphony of the trek, creating a journey that refreshes both the body and the soul.
Har Ki Dun Trek Best Time
Timing is crucial to fully enjoy the Har Ki Dun Trek. The ideal periods are:
- Mid-April to Mid-June: Spring and early summer offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and blooming flora. This is the perfect time for trekking when the meadows are lush, and the weather is pleasant.
- Mid-September to Mid-November: Autumn brings cooler temperatures, clear views, and vibrant landscapes. This is another excellent time for trekking as the trails are less crowded, and the weather is stable.
Difficulty Level of Har Ki Dun Trek
The Har Ki Dun Trek is known for its moderate difficulty level. Here a detailed breakdown of what to expect:
- Trail Conditions: The trail varies from well-trodden paths to rugged terrains. You experience smooth stretches through dense forests and steep ascents leading to high-altitude meadows. Expect to navigate through a mix of rocky paths, muddy stretches, and grassy meadows.
- Altitude & Elevations:
- Starting Point: Sankri Village - 6,400 Ft
- Highest Point: Har-Ki-Dun - 11,700 Ft
- Intermediate Points: Puani Garaat - 8,300 Ft; Kalkatiyadhaar - 9,000 Ft
- Weather Conditions:
- Spring (April-June): Pleasant temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, with clear skies.
- Autumn (September-November): Cool temperatures, ranging from 5°C to 15°C, with stable weather and clear views.
- Winter (December-February): Cold with heavy snowfall, making the trek challenging and less accessible.
- Physical Fitness:
Trekkers should be comfortable walking long distances with some elevation gain. Regular cardiovascular exercises and leg-strengthening workouts will aid in better acclimatization and endurance. Prior trekking experience is beneficial but not essential.
How to Reach Dehradun Or Sankri
Dehradun is the primary gateway to the Har Ki Dun Trek. Here how you can reach Dehradun and the base camp of Sankri:
- By Air:
- Dehradun Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (DED) is the nearest airport, approximately 25 km from Dehradun city center. Regular flights connect Dehradun with major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- By Road:
- From Delhi: The road distance is about 250 km, which takes around 7-8 hours. Regular buses and private cabs are available.
- From Dehradun: Sankri is approximately 210 km from Dehradun, with a travel time of 8-10 hours. Shared cabs and private taxis are available.
- By Train:
- To Dehradun: Dehradun Railway Station is well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Trains such as the Shatabdi Express and Dehradun Express are popular options.
Har Ki Dun Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri Village
Distance: 210 km
Travel time: 6-8 hours by road
Altitude: 6,400 ft
Weather: Mild and pleasant during the day (15°C to 20°C); cool at night (5°C to 10°C)
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Dehradun to Sankri Village. The journey is filled with beautiful views and serene scenery as you pass through picturesque landscapes and quaint villages. Sankri is the base camp, where you will acclimatize and prepare yourself for the trek. The pleasant weather during the day is ideal for enjoying the drive, while the cool nights give you a refreshing reprieve as you settle into the camp.
Day 2: Sankri Village to Puani Garat via Taluka Village
Distance: 12 km
Travel time: 5-6 hours trekking
Altitude: 8,300 ft
Weather: Cool and comfortable during the day (10°C to 15°C); cold at night (0°C to 5°C)
The trek begins with a drive towards Taluka Village, followed by a trek towards Puani Garat. The trail passes through dense forests, with waterfalls and rivers visible, with cool and comfortable temperatures during the day making it perfect for trekking. The trail offers a mix of gentle slopes and challenging climbs, and as you climb higher, the air becomes cool and refreshing. At Puani Garat, you will experience the serenity of the mountains, with clear streams and alpine meadows in your backdrop.
Day 3: Puani Garat to Kalkatiyadhar
Distance: 7 km
Travel time: 4-5 hours trekking
Altitude: 9,000 ft
Weather: Mildly cool during the day (10°C to 15°C); cold at night (-2°C to 3°C)
As you approach Kalkatiyadhar, the trail becomes more challenging, with steep climbs taking you higher and higher. The scenery changes from lush green forests to vast grasslands. The weather is mild during the day, but the temperature drops at night, creating a cool atmosphere that is ideal for stargazing. This part of the trek offers an opportunity to see the diverse flora and fauna of the region and the cool, clear nights make it an ideal place to witness the beauty of the night sky in the mountains.
Day 4: Kalkatiyadhar to Har Ki Dun
Distance: 5 km
Travel time: 3-4 hours trekking
Altitude: 11,700 ft
Weather: Cool during the day (8°C to 12°C); cold at night (-5°C to 0°C)
The trek to Har Ki Dun is short but steep, from where you get a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks. As you climb higher, the temperature drops significantly, especially at night, so it is important to dress warmly. The cool weather adds a refreshing challenge to the trek, and the beauty of the valley is further enhanced by the cool, chilly breeze. When the trail opens, you see the Har Ki Dun valley, where snow-capped peaks rise above lush green meadows.
Day 5: Rest day in Har Ki Dun
Altitude: 11,700 ft
Weather: Cold during day and night (Day: 5°C to 10°C; Night: -10°C to -5°C)
A day to relax and explore the valley, you can go on short hikes or simply rest. The cool weather adds to the valleys charm, and if you lucky, you might experience light snowfall, turning the landscape into a winter wonderland. This rest day gives you a chance to acclimatize to the altitude and soak in the breathtaking views of Har Ki Dun Valley. The cool breeze, views of snow-capped peaks, and the calm atmosphere make it a perfect day to recharge and contemplate.
Day 6: Har Ki Dun to Puani Garat
Distance: 14 km
Travel time: 6-7 hours trekking
Altitude: 8,300 ft
Weather: Cool during the day (10°C to 15°C); chilly at night (0°C to 5°C)
Take a step back to Puani Garat, where the descent offers you breathtaking views of the landscapes you passed through on the way up. The weather is mild on the way down, making for a pleasant trekking experience. The return journey offers a different perspective, as you get to see new views and a change in the character of the landscape on the way down. The cool night at Puani Garat provides a relaxing end to a long day of trekking.
Day 7: Puani Garat to Sankari Village via Taluka Village
Distance: 12 km
Travel time: 5-6 hours trekking
Altitude: 6,400 ft
Weather: Mild and comfortable during the day (15°C to 20°C); cool at night (5°C to 10°C)
The final day of trekking takes you back to Sankari Village, where you will have time to relax and enjoy the villages hospitality. The weather is mild, making the descent comfortable. The trek back to Sankari is a time to reflect on your journey, with the mild weather providing a relaxing and enjoyable final day. As you descend, the familiar views of Taluka and Sankari greet you, providing a sense of completion and accomplishment.
Day 8: Sankri to Dehradun
Distance: 210 km
Travel time: 8-10 hours by road
Altitude: Dehradun - 1,400 ft
Weather: Pleasant throughout the day (20°C to 25°C); cool in the evening (15°C to 20°C)
Your journey ends with a beautiful drive towards Dehradun, where the pleasant weather and stunning landscapes provide a perfect finale for your trekking adventure. The drive back to Dehradun gives you a chance to see the beautiful landscapes once again before your trekking adventure.
Why Choose Our Har Ki Dun Trek Package?
- Expertise: With years of experience in organizing treks, we provide a well-structured Har ki Dun Package that caters to all your needs.
- Safety: Well-defined safety protocols are designed through our team for the trekker to safer trekking to the trek.
- Value for Money: We offer competitive pricing for our package without compromising on quality or experience.
faq
1. When the best time to go on the Har Ki Dun trek?
You find the best conditions for the Har Ki Dun trek from mid-April to mid-June and from mid-September to mid-November. These months offer nice weather clear skies, and mild temperatures, which make for a great trekking experience.
2. How tough is the Har Ki Dun trek?
Trekkers rate the Har Ki Dun trek as moderate. You encounter different types of trails including rocky paths muddy areas, and steep uphill sections. To enjoy the trek, you should be in decent shape. Some previous trekking know-how helps but isnt a must.
3. What do I need to pack for the Har Ki Dun trek?
Dont forget to bring hiking boots warm clothes, rain gear, a sleeping bag, a daypack, and personal care items. Its also smart to pack energy-rich snacks, a first aid kit, and any medicines you might need.
4. How long does the Har Ki Dun trek take?
This hike lasts around 8 days and spans 50 km in total. The journey includes uphill and downhill sections, with varying distances each day.
5. What kind of accommodation can I expect during the trek?
Accommodation typically includes stays in campsites and guesthouses. Basic facilities are provided, and tents are usually set up at the camping sites.
6. Do I need a permit for the Har Ki Dun Trek?
Yes, a trekking permit is required for the Har Ki Dun Trek. Permits can be obtained from the Forest Department in Uttarkashi or through trekking agencies.
7. Is there mobile network coverage on the trek?
Mobile network coverage is limited along the trek, with better connectivity in lower altitudes like Sankri and Taluka.
8. Should I hike alone or in a group?
You can hike alone, but joining a guided group hike is safer and offers better support. Guides who know the area well can make your hike more enjoyable.
9. How can I get altitude sickness on Har Ki Dun Trek?
You may get altitude sickness at high places like Har-ki-Dun. To reduce this risk, get used to the altitude, drink plenty of water, and go higher.
10. Will I get medical help during the hike?
You wont get much medical help during the hike. Its a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit and all the medicines you need. If you have a serious health problem, you may need to be taken out.
11. How many days does the Har Ki Dun trek last?
The trek lasts approximately 8 days and covers a total distance of 50 km. You will go up and down, covering different distances each day.
