Overview

Har Ki Dun Trek is a impressive journey into the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas, offering a perfect flavour of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. Here’s a comprehensive overview of this iconic trek:

Location and Altitude: Nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, the Har Ki Dun Trek starts at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters (5,900 ft) and ascends to around 3,566 meters (11,700 ft) at the Har Ki Dun valley.
Trek Duration: The trek typically spans over 7-8 days, covering a distance of about 55-60 kilometers round trip, depending on the specific itinerary chosen.
Terrain and Scenery: The trek route traverses diverse landscapes, including dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, lush meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers, glacial streams, and picturesque Himalayan villages. Trekkers are treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks such as Swargarohini, Bandarpooch, and Black Peak throughout the journey.
Cultural Experience: Along the trail, trekkers encounter remote mountain villages inhabited by the indigenous Garhwali people. This offers a unique opportunity to interact with the locals, experience their traditional way of life, and gain insights into their rich cultural heritage.
Flora and Fauna: The region is blessed with rich biodiversity, showcasing a variety of flora and fauna. Trekkers may encounter Himalayan langurs, musk deer, and a plethora of bird species amidst the pristine wilderness.
Har Ki Dun Valley: The highlight of the trek is reaching the breathtaking Har Ki Dun valley, often referred to as the Valley of Gods. Surrounded by towering peaks, this enchanting valley offers awe-inspiring vistas, serene alpine meadows, and a tranquil ambiance that captivates every visitor.
Difficulty Level: Considered a moderate trek, Har Ki Dun is suitable for both novice and seasoned trekkers. The gradual ascent allows for proper acclimatization, while the trail presents occasional challenges such as river crossings and steep ascents.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to undertake the Har Ki Dun Trek is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, the trails are relatively dry, and the landscapes are at their scenic best.

In essence, the Har Ki Dun Trek offers an unforgettable adventure amidst the pristine Himalayan wilderness, promising a soul-stirring experience for all nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Included / Exclude

Scenic Starting Point: Begin the journey from Sankri Village, located at 6,455 ft above sea level, amidst picturesque surroundings.
Warm Hospitality: Experience the warmth and friendliness of the locals in Sankri Village, where you'll find comfortable guesthouses and traditional dhabas serving delicious local cuisine.
Enchanting Forest Trek: Trek from Sankri to Taluka, a distance of 12 km, through dense forests adorned with pine and walnut trees, and natural water streams adding to the charm of the journey.
Ascending Altitudes: Move from Taluka to Kalkattiyadhaar, reaching an altitude of 9,000 ft, amidst gradual inclines and stunning vistas, feeling the positive energy of Uttarakhand's spiritual atmosphere.
Spiritual Journey: Experience the spiritual essence of Uttarakhand, known as Dev Bhumi, as you trek through Kalkattiyadhaar, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Himalayas.
Final Destination - Har ki Dun: Reach the iconic Har ki Dun valley, situated at an altitude of 3,400m/11,800ft, after a challenging yet rewarding trek of 10 km, offering breathtaking views of towering peaks and lush landscapes.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions, interacting with the people of the region and gaining insights into their way of life.
Personal Transformation: Indulge in the joys of trekking, fostering camaraderie with fellow trekkers, embracing your inner child, and absorbing the beauty of nature, leading to personal growth and happiness.
Return Journey: Descend from Har ki Dun to Pauni Garaat via Osla, savoring the final moments in the pristine wilderness, before returning to Sankri Village via Taluka.
Reflections and Memories: Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherish the memories created during the trek, as you bid farewell to the majestic Himalayas and journey back to Dehradun, marking the end of an incredible adventure.

Sankri Village: Starting point of the trek, nestled amidst scenic landscapes at an altitude of 6,455 ft, offering comfortable guesthouses and local dhabas.
Trek to Taluka: Trekking for 12 km from Sankri to Taluka through dense forests of pine and walnut trees, accompanied by the soothing sound of natural water streams.
Ascend to Kalkattiyadhaar: Ascend to an altitude of 9,000 ft at Kalkattiyadhaar, experiencing gradual inclines and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Spiritual Aura: Feel the spiritual energy of Uttarakhand, known as Dev Bhumi, permeating through the tranquil surroundings of Kalkattiyadhaar.
Har ki Dun Valley: Reach the iconic Har ki Dun valley at an altitude of 3,400m/11,800ft, after a challenging yet rewarding trek of 10 km, offering stunning vistas of towering peaks.
Cultural Interactions: Immerse in the local culture, interacting with the hospitable locals, and gaining insights into their lifestyle and traditions.
Personal Growth: Embrace the joys of trekking, fostering camaraderie with fellow trekkers, and experiencing personal growth amidst the serene Himalayan landscapes.
Return Journey: Descend from Har ki Dun to Pauni Garaat via Osla, relishing the serene wilderness and bidding farewell to the majestic Himalayas.
Reflections and Memories: Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherish the memories created during the trek, marking the end of an enriching adventure.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri

The journey of the Har Ki Dun Trek commences from Sankri Village, situated approximately 7-8 kilometers from Dehradun. Positioned at an elevation of about 6,455 feet above sea level, Sankri Village offers a delightful introduction to the trek. Travelers are advised to carry warm clothing due to the unpredictable weather conditions in this region. Upon arrival, guests can unwind in the guest rooms and immerse themselves in the serene ambiance of the village.

Sankri Village is a charming settlement surrounded by picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal place for leisurely exploration. Travelers can wander through the local markets, where they can find an array of shops and dhabas offering traditional food and handicrafts. Interacting with the friendly locals provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. The evening is adorned with a mesmerizing sunset, enhancing the beauty of the village.

Moreover, Sankri Village serves as the gateway to the renowned Govind National Park of Uttarakhand, showcasing diverse flora and fauna. With its warm hospitality and stunning natural beauty, Sankri Village offers a memorable start to the Har Ki Dun Trek, ensuring that travelers feel at home amidst the Himalayan wilderness.

Day 2: Sankri to Pauni Garaat / Taluka

On the following day of your adventure, you will progress further towards your destination. After enjoying a hearty breakfast in Sankri Village, you will embark on a journey towards Taluka. Situated at an altitude of approximately 7,000 feet above sea level, Taluka is nestled about 12 kilometers away from Sankri. The scenic drive to Taluka offers glimpses of dense forests adorned with majestic pinewood and walnut trees.

As you traverse through the forested trails, you will encounter numerous natural water streams, adding to the enchanting ambiance of the surroundings. The melodious sounds of flowing streams and the lush greenery will evoke a sense of joy and excitement within you. Immerse yourself in the serenity of nature as you make your way towards Taluka, taking in the breathtaking views and embracing the tranquility of the Himalayan landscape.

Day 3: Pauni Garaat to Kalkattiyadhaar / Osla

On the third day of your trek, you will journey towards Kalkattiyadhaar, situated at an altitude of 9,000 feet above sea level. The trek spans approximately 7 kilometers and requires about 6 hours to cover. As you ascend towards Kalkattiyadhaar, you will traverse through diverse terrain that is beautifully distributed in levels, offering varying landscapes to explore.

At such high altitudes, you will be immersed in the serene and spiritual atmosphere of Uttarakhand, often referred to as Dev Bhumi or the Land of Gods. The region is imbued with spirituality, and you will feel the positive energy permeating through every corner of the state. This spiritual ambiance rejuvenates the body and mind, adding to the enriching experience of the trek. Embrace the tranquility of the surroundings as you ascend to Kalkattiyadhaar, soaking in the awe-inspiring vistas and connecting with nature on a profound level.

Day 4: Kalkattiyadhar to Har Ki Doon to Kalkattiyadhar

On the final day of your trek, you will embark on the journey to reach your ultimate destination, Har ki Dun, situated at an elevation of 3,400 meters or 11,800 feet above sea level. This segment of the trek spans approximately 10 kilometers and entails around 9 hours of trekking time. Har ki Dun Trek is renowned as one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand, promising an unforgettable experience.

As you make your way from Kalkattiyadhaar to Har ki Dun, you will encounter a gradual incline, traversing through enchanting forests adorned with towering trees and a rich variety of flora and fauna. The trek offers a transformative experience beyond simply reaching the destination; it allows you to immerse yourself in the journey and undergo personal growth.

During the trek, you will interact with fellow trekkers, fostering new connections and creating cherished memories. The journey encourages you to embrace your inner child, allowing you to experience joy and excitement at its peak. Moreover, you will gain insights into the local culture, further enriching your understanding of the region.

Overall, this journey fills you with optimism and positive energy, leaving a lasting impact on your mind, body, and soul. It serves as a reminder of the beauty of nature and the joy of exploration, instilling a sense of fulfillment and happiness within you.

Day 5: Kalkattiyadhar to Pauni Garaat / Osla

On the fifth day of your trek, you will proceed from Kalkattiyadhaar to Pauni Garaat via Osla, covering a distance of 8 kilometers in approximately 5 hours. This leg of the journey presents another opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding you. As you traverse through the picturesque landscape, you will encounter various gifts of nature, from lush greenery to pristine streams.

Upon reaching Pauni Garaat, you will settle in at the campsite where you will spend the night. Here, you can unwind and relax amidst the serene surroundings. A campfire will provide warmth and camaraderie, offering the perfect setting to bond with your fellow trekkers. You can also indulge in games and activities, making the most of your time in this captivating wilderness.

These moments spent at the campsite are precious, serving as a culmination of your trekking adventure. Take advantage of this time to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and create lasting memories with your companions. Cherish these final moments in the embrace of the mountains, soaking in the tranquility and serenity of the surroundings.

Day 6: Pauni Garaat to Sankri / Taluka

On the final leg of your journey, you will make your way back to Sankri Village from Pauni Garaat via Taluka. Descending from higher altitudes can be physically easier than ascending, but it still requires careful navigation and pace control to ensure safety. As you retrace your steps through familiar terrain, take the time to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings once again.

Throughout the trek, provisions such as snacks and water bottles will be readily available and consumed as needed to sustain your energy levels. This ensures that you remain adequately nourished and hydrated during the journey.

Upon reaching Sankri Village, you will spend the night in the guesthouse, providing a comfortable and restful conclusion to your trekking adventure. Reflect on the experiences and memories you have gathered over the past few days, and cherish the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing the Har ki Dun trek.

Day 7: Sankri to Dehradun

As your memorable journey draws to a close, you will embark on the final leg of your return trip from Sankri Village to Dehradun. The scenic drive back covers approximately 10 hours, offering ample time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes you encountered during your trekking expedition in the Himalayas.

As you traverse the winding mountain roads and descend from the high altitudes of the Garhwal region, you may find yourself reminiscing about the challenges overcome, the camaraderie shared with fellow trekkers, and the profound connection forged with nature.

Arriving back in Dehradun marks the end of an incredible adventure, leaving you with cherished memories to treasure for a lifetime.

FAQs

What is the Har ki Dun Trek?
- The Har ki Dun Trek is a popular trekking route located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. It leads trekkers to the scenic Har ki Dun Valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and alpine meadows.
How long is the Har ki Dun Trek?
- The Har ki Dun Trek typically takes around 7 to 9 days to complete, depending on the starting point and the pace of the trek. The trek covers a distance of approximately 50 to 60 kilometers round trip.
What is the best time to do the Har ki Dun Trek?
- The best time to undertake the Har ki Dun Trek is during the summer months of May to June and the post-monsoon season from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the trekking trails are accessible.
Is the Har ki Dun Trek difficult?
- The Har ki Dun Trek is considered moderately challenging and is suitable for trekkers with some prior experience. The trail involves gradual ascents and descents, river crossings, and walking on rocky terrain. Trekkers should have a reasonable level of fitness and endurance to tackle the trek.
What is the altitude of Har ki Dun?
- The Har ki Dun Valley is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,566 meters (11,699 feet) above sea level. Trekkers ascend from lower altitudes in the valley to reach Har ki Dun, which requires proper acclimatization to prevent altitude-related illnesses.
What permits are required for the Har ki Dun Trek?
- Trekkers may need to obtain permits from the local forest department or authorities before starting the Har ki Dun Trek. It's advisable to check the current permit requirements and regulations before planning the trek.