The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is more than a trek – it’s an exploration of the spiritual heart of the Indian Himalayas. Situated in Uttarakhand’s Gangotri National Park, the trek leads you to Gomukh, the holy snout of the Gangotri Glacier, said to be the source of the sacred Ganges. Thence, you reach the high alpine meadows of Tapovan, abode of sages, tranquility, and of course, breathtaking vistas of Mt. Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks.
I recently completed this trek, and honestly, it left me speechless, and also help me to make my mind peaceful. Every step felt like peeling away stress and rediscovering something deeper – both outside and within. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to plan your own Gomukh Tapovan adventure.
Image credit: SindhuClark
Where is Gomukh Tapovan Trek Located?
The trek starts from Gangotri, a sacred town in Uttarakhand, at an altitude of 3,100 meters. The trail moves through the Gangotri National Park, known for its rare high-altitude flora and fauna, and ends at Tapovan, around 4,463 meters above sea level.
- Starting Point: Gangotri
- Region: Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand
- Nearest Town: Uttarkashi
- Best Access From: Dehradun or Rishikesh
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Map & Route
The trekking route follows this general path:
Gangotri → Chirbasa → Bhojbasa → Gomukh → Tapovan
Gangotri to Tapovan Trek Distance
- Total Trekking Distance: 46 km (round trip)
- Gangotri to Gomukh Distance: 14 km
- Gomukh to Tapovan Distance: 5 km (steep and challenging)
The trail winds along the Bhagirathi River, crossing rugged moraines, alpine meadows, and glacier snouts.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri (Drive – 240 km / 9–10 hrs)
- Altitude: 3,100 m
- Highlights: Scenic drive via Uttarkashi, Bhagirathi river valley
- Tip: Start early to reach Gangotri before sunset. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 2: Gangotri to Chirbasa (Trek – 9 km / 5 hrs)
- Altitude: 3,600 m
- Trail: Moderate trail through pine forests, riverbanks, and boulder sections
- Stay: Tents at Chirbasa
- Experience: First real feel of high-altitude trekking with stunning valley views.
Day 3: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (Trek – 5 km / 3 hrs)
- Altitude: 3,800 m
- Trail: Gentle ascent, open views, windy terrain
- Stay: Camps at Bhojbasa
- Note: Great acclimatization day. Sunset views on Bhagirathi peaks are magical
Day 4: Bhojbasa to Tapovan via Gomukh (Trek – 9 km / 7–8 hrs)
- Altitude: Gomukh (4,000 m), Tapovan (4,463 m)
- Trail: Steep, rocky glacier crossings from Gomukh to Tapovan
- Highlight: Reach the sacred Gomukh Glacier and ascend to Tapovan’s spiritual meadows
- Stay: Camps at Tapovan – one of the most surreal campgrounds in the Himalayas
Day 5: Tapovan to Bhojbasa (Trek – 9 km / 5 hrs)
- Descent: Retrace the path down through moraines and glacial boulders
- Stay: Camp at Bhojbasa
- Tip: Take it slow; enjoy the clear skies and reflect on your summit day
Day 6: Bhojbasa to Gangotri (Trek – 14 km / 6 hrs), Drive to Uttarkashi (Optional)
- Final Trek: Return trek to Gangotri via Chirbasa
- Tip: You can choose to rest at Gangotri or drive onward to Uttarkashi for better lodging options
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Difficulty Level
How difficult is Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
I won’t sugar coat it – the trek isn’t easy. It’s classified as moderate to difficult due to the high altitude, glacial terrain, and sudden weather changes. The stretch from Gomukh to Tapovan is particularly challenging, with loose rocks and steep ascents.
That said, if you have decent fitness, a sense of adventure, and a few prior treks under your belt, you can absolutely do it.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Best Time to Visit
The ideal trekking season is:
- May to June (Spring/Summer) – Clear skies, blooming flowers, and pleasant daytime temperatures.
- September to mid-October (Autumn) – Crisp views, fewer crowds, and a golden Himalayan backdrop.
- Avoid the monsoon months (July-August) due to landslides and slippery trails.
Weather & Geographical Conditions
- Altitude Range: 3,100 m (Gangotri) to 4,463 m (Tapovan)
- Temperature in May/June: 5°C to 15°C (day), -2°C to 5°C (night)
- Terrain: Rocky trails, glacial moraines, alpine meadows
- Flora & Fauna: Pine, deodar, birch, Himalayan blue sheep, snow leopards (rare sighting)
- Prepare for cold nights, UV exposure, and strong winds especially at Tapovan.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Permit & Entry Info
To protect the ecologically sensitive region, permits are mandatory.
- Where to get it: Forest Department office in Gangotri
- Required Documents: ID proof, medical fitness certificate
- Entry Restrictions: Only 150 trekkers allowed per day
- Permit Fee: ₹150 for Indians, ₹600+ for foreigners per day (may vary)
Tip: Apply online via the Uttarkashi Forest Department website or get help from any trek organizer.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Cost (2025 Estimates)
- Organized Group Trek: ₹12,000–₹18,000 per person (includes permits, meals, tents, guide, etc.)
- Solo Trek with Guide: ₹8,000–₹12,000 (guide fees, permits, food, etc.)
- Transport to Gangotri: ₹1,500–₹2,500 (shared taxi/bus from Dehradun)
- You can cut costs by going with a group or trekking independently – just don’t skimp on gear or safety.
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Solo – Is it Possible?
Can we do Gomukh Tapovan Trek on our own?
Ans- Yes, but with some caveats.
You can trek solo only up to Gomukh. To go beyond to Tapovan, you must hire a registered guide, as the glacier region is risky and unpredictable.
As someone who did it with a small group, I’d still recommend having at least a guide – the terrain can be confusing, and safety is key.
My Personal Experience
Waking up at Bhojbasa, I remember unzipping my tent to a pink-tinted Mt. Shivling glowing like a divine fire. At Tapovan, the silence was surreal – only the wind and the crackling glacier sounds kept us company. I dipped my fingers in the icy stream near Gomukh and felt goosebumps – not just from the cold, but from the sheer energy of the place. I have done this trek in mid of May.
This wasn’t just a trek. It was therapy.
Packing Essentials & Tips
- Good trekking shoes (ankle support a must)
- Down jacket, gloves, thermals (nights get freezing)
- UV sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
- Personal medical kit
- Water purification tablets
- Energy snacks and glucose
- Permit printouts and ID proofs
FAQ:
Q. How long is the trek from Gomukh to Tapovan?
A: Around 5 km, but it’s steep and usually takes 3–5 hours due to altitude and terrain.
Q: Is the Gomukh Tapovan Trek good for beginners?
A: Not really. Beginners should train well in advance or start with easier treks like Kedarkantha or Dayara Bugyal.
Q: Are there mobile networks on the trail?
A: Limited to Gangotri. Beyond that, it’s a digital detox zone.
Q: Is altitude sickness a concern?
A: Yes, acclimatize well, hydrate, and avoid rushing.
Final Thoughts
The Gomukh Tapovan Trek is a peacefull adventure, mythology, and Himalayan serenity. It’s not just a trek – it’s a pilgrimage, a test of grit, and a moment of divine connection.
If you’re dreaming of standing face-to-face with majestic mountains, listening to the heartbeat of a glacier, and walking a path once walked by sages, then this trek is calling you.
So lace up your boots, trust the trail, and go find your Tapovan moment.
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