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One of the most ravishing valleys in the Western Himalayas, the Har Ki Dun Trek takes you through enchanting forests of alpine with extraordinary views of the surrounding mountain pinnacles. Located at the base of the majestic peak of Fateh Parvat, it surmounts a height of 3556 meters. This cradle shaped valley offers a variety of enchanting explorations ranging from nature’s compassion to bird viewing. Scattered with Himalayan flowers, the valley is also packed with thrilling wildlife. Encounter Sankri with its magnificent views of the Garhwal Mountains before you trail towards Taluka, which has the essence of vast meadows and the invigorating aroma of scented flowers. Plunge ahead through Osla with propitious encounters with deers and bores before you stroll to the euphoric Har Ki Dun Pass. Witness the frozen glaciers of Jaundhar and Swargarohini while charming landscapes of prairie and snowflakes garnish your scrutiny.
Here is the complete Har Ki Dun Trek Guide to prepare for an amazing trekking expedition in the beautiful Himalayas.
How To Reach
Launching ahead on your expedition amidst the Garhwal Himalayas, The Har Ki Dun Trek commences from the picturesque city of Dehradun, nestled in Uttarakhand. Arrive in the beautiful Dehradun by air, train, bus or car. Fly in to the Jolly Grant Airport from Delhi and other major cities, located 25 kms from Dehradun and ride the easily available cabs to reach the city centre. Dehradun is well connected by railways to major cities; this is the last station before one begins to ascend into the mountains. The Mussoorie Express, Shatabdi Express and Nizammudin Dehradun Special run regularly on these lines from New Delhi. Various other trains run frequently from Chennai, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Amritsar among others. There are numerous buses that ply every half an hour from the ISBT Kashmiri Gate in New Delhi and take approximately 6-8 Hours to reach Dehradun. Other Volvo and state-run buses are scheduled from Shimla and Mussoorie. You can also pre-check to book luxury buses or instead take a road trip and drive down through the pictorial roads of NH 72.
Base Camp
The entry point to the charismatic Har Ki Dun, Sankri is the basecamp of this exhilarating expedition. It is a scenic village that is conveniently situated at the astounding pinnacle of 1950 meters, in the Tons Valley with elating views of the Himalayas. It is the last village road head on the route to the trek and is magically located 13 kms inside the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary. Few private hotels can be discovered here along with a government-run guesthouse to accommodate travellers and trekkers. Apart from being the campsite for various treks, it also has amazing grounds for camping and bonfire. The beautiful sun setting behind the Himalayas coupled with the shimmer of the Swargarohini peak, makes Sankri an ideal basecamp amidst the ridges.
Also Read: 15 Best Himalayan summer Treks that are inevitable.
Best Season To Visit
The Har Ki Dun Trek takes you from the celebrated city of Dehradun through an exhilarating drive to Sankri, which is the base camp of this trekking expedition. A fairly popular campsite amidst travellers and trekkers, this forms the commencing point of various explorative accounts. With an exquisite weather suitable for trekking all year round except for the monsoons, one can witness snow in the months of winter that may from December to the mid month of April. Spring season is the best time to engage in this trip, for the views of the flower-blooming meadows and valleys coupled with scattered snow makes an exciting journey. The average temperature ranges from 1°C to 5°C, although nights are reasonably colder with drastic dips below freezing point. Generally, most trekking enthusiasts undertake this trek anytime during the months of May to October, which as a safe weather condition and better predictable conditions of trekking.
About The Locals
Abundant chronicles coupled with the fascinating culture of Uttarakhand make it a travel friendly state. The towns and villages in Uttarakhand are principally blessed with religious memorials that form the basis of the inhabitants’ history. Discover the traditions and practices of this beautiful region, where the culture and religion is kept close to heart while the way of life is amusing to witness. Tourism has bloomed since the past decade giving the citizens amended revenue. Their diversity and generosity towards travellers is well admired by all. Their benevolence and admiration for travellers fills your expedition with experiences that will stay a lifetime.
Also Read: 10 Best Himalayan Treks for Beginners.
Elevation Points
The Har Ki Dun trekking expedition begins from the beautiful city of Dehradun and takes you on an exhilarating drive to reach the basecamp at Sankri. The drive takes you through enchanting villages of Nainbagh, Purola and Naitwar among others. Sankri offers amazing views of the picturesque Himalayas, with its elevation at 1950 meters. Trekking from here to the mystical Taluka that sits at 2075 meters, one can witness the Tons River and the small settlement that rests here. Track ahead to Osla that stands at 2560 meters with its beautiful village adorned with a carved temple. Reach your trekking destination of Har Ki Dun that scales a majestic 3556 meters. Trace your steps back as you descend to Osla and then to Sankri before you are dropped off at Dehradun.
Permits
Required Entry fees at certain check points, permits for the trek and obligatory forest camping charges in the region for the entire length of the trek will be included as part of the trekking expedition of the organizers. Please carry your identification cards such as driving license or voter ID along with a passport size photo, a medical certificate ensuring your fitness for the trek and a disclaimer certificate ensuring your submission to voluntarily participate in this trek. You may be required to receive permits for the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and/or any equivalent forest fees, as required.
Medical Advice and Emergency Numbers
A well-equipped first aid kit will be accessible with the guides throughout the duration of the trek. We recommend that you carry your own individual resource of first aid items such as medicines, antiseptics, insect repellents, prescription drugs etc.
All precautionary measures shall be taken to ensure your safety yet there lays no harm in having awareness of the general know-how of healthcare. CPR and other common medical knowledge about altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness) should be present.
This illness is associated with trekking with symptoms that range from headache, insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, lung problems, ataxia etc.
Please consult your doctor before your trip to procure prescription drugs for such possible situations and only consume them if required, as they are powerful and have strong effects, especially if taken during your trek. As Har Ki Dun lies in Uttarakhand, please keep with you at all times the following emergency contact details.
Uttarakhand Helpline: 0135 – 2710334, 0135 – 2710335, 0135 – 2710233
Army Control Number: 0135 – 2716201, 0135 – 2710925, 0135 – 2716201, 0135 – 2710925
Army Medical Emergency numbers : 18001805558, 18004190282, 8009833388
Police: 100
Fire: 101
Ambulance: 102
Chamoli Control Room : 01372-251437, 251077, 09411352136
Flood Information : 01372-251437, 09411352136
Advice and Expectations
This expedition is the perfect experience to enjoy the thrill of the Himalayas yet it holds extreme conditions and is generally considered to have a moderate to hard level of difficulty.
Prepare thoroughly with regard to clothing and other protective gears to endure the unpredictable mountain weather, as it may get very cold. Keep your trekking gear safe and always keep essentials such as wind-proof jacket, dry socks and caps at hand. Make sure you choose correct and good quality footwear and fitted boots to avoid frostbites. Wear the right kind of socks to facilitate blood circulation.
Carry a sturdy sleeping bag that is durable and comfortable. Carry a good quality backpack that can ensure harsh conditions of wear and tear, especially with a plastic or waterproof lining. Carry your identification proof as you might be expected to furnish it with the officials.
Things To Carry
– Durable good-quality trekking shoes
– Camping shoes for crossing streams
– Thick woollen socks
– Thermal innerwear
– Heavy fleece clothes
– Torch
– Whistle
– Covers to store used/wet clothing
– Winter jacket and water proof coat
– Trekking pants
– Woollen cap, gloves, etc.
– Sunglasses
– Sun screen lotion and other toiletries
– Water bottle
– Trekking pole
– Firs aid kit
– Personal medication
– Swiss knife
Attractions
Dehradun – The capital city of the new state of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is a hill station that is nestled amidst the Garhwal region of the majestic Himalayas. It is one of the oldest cities in India and has a large number of tourists each year due to its picturesque landscapes and vibrant weather.
Nestled between the Ganges and the Yamuna, Dehradun is a popular retirement spot as it hosts a large Cantonment area apart from being a world famous holiday destination. Various historical sites of architectural value can be found here with auspicious temples that are renowned.
Sankri – Travelling through unspoilt and mixed Himalayan forests, Sankri is the roadhead for the Har Ki Dun Trek. A pretty village that offers a beautiful view of the Himalayas, Sankri consists of a few settlements of shops and guesthouses and mostly cater to trekking enthusiasts.
It is nestled at 1950 meters in the Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand with a scenic paradise that jolts the naïve traveller. This lovely hamlet stands proud amidst the Swargarohini peak in its backdrop.
Taluka – An attractive colony en route to Har Ki Dun Pass, Taluka sits at an elevation of 2075 meters with striking valley views whilst meandering streams pass along the green marshlands.
It has a GMVN (Garhwal Mangal Vikas Nigam) guesthouse that accommodates trekkers and is run by the government. A private run forest guesthouse can also be visited here, which offers decent accommodation facilities for nature enthusiasts who wish to enjoy the bounty of paradise.
Osla – Osla is a clandestine village in the Mori Tehsil of the Uttarkashi District. This beautiful abode offers extraordinary sceneries within the prominent mountain backdrops.
Beautiful meadows and peaked mountaintops will exhilarate your senses with occasional unique flowers that adorn the green fields. The Temple of Duryodhan is sited here, which is believed to hold a significant historical significance by the locals.
The tears shed by the locals are believed to have formed the River Tamas when the demise of Duryodhan occurred at the battle of Kurukshetra. This is the reason the water of this river is not used for drinking.
Har Ki Dun – One of the most famous trekking getaways in the Uttarakhand region, the Har Ki Dun is a cradle shaped valley in the majestic Garhwal Himalayan region. It is situated on the foothills of Swargarohini Peak with scenic views of nature’s bounty. It is home to the enthralling Jaundhar glacier where nature’s exquisiteness engrosses every traveller.
The Har Ki Dun is called the ‘hanging valley of gods’ with high chances of sighting wildlife. The smell of pine combined with the sight of deodar trees will entice your senses whilst you trail through terraced mountain fields, conifer forests and lush green grasslands.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Dehradun, Drive to Sankri
Day 02: Trek from Sankri – Taluka
Day 03: Trek from Taluka – Osla
Day 04: Trek from Osla – Har Ki Dun (11 km/5-6
Day 05: Trek from Har Ki Dun – Jaundhar Glacier – Har Ki Dun camp (15 km/7 Hours)
Day 06: Trek from Har Ki Dun – Osla (11 km/3 Hours)
Day 07: Trek from Osla – Sankri (26 km/7-8 Hours)
Day 08: Drive to Dehradun (Reach at 7-8 PM)
Tips And Tricks
– Hydrate two days before your trek – you must triple your water intake to avoid dehydration.
– Choose a shoe that is half a number larger than your normal size. It may be uncomfortable if one chooses a shoe size, which is one number smaller than your actual size. You may end up with sore fingers and blisters at the end of the trek. To avoid blisters, you can wear double layers of socks – a thin nylon one first followed by a thick Turkish sock.
– In case you carry your camera or a mobile phone, make sure you carry enough supply of plastic waterproof bags to keep them safe.
– Once you start trekking with the entire group, try and get your natural rhythm of walking. Never attempt to walk too fast or too slow as this can lead to premature fatigue.
– It is advisable to carry a windcheater but it is not advisable to wear it while trekking. During trekking, our body produces solid heat and to regulate that, the heated muscles of our body sweat profusely. In a humid atmosphere with a hot and perspiring situation, we aggravate it by wearing windcheaters. All in all, it leads to a suffocated feeling. Our advice is to carry a windcheater in your sack and wear it only when you take a long halt.
What is the best time to go for Har Ki Doon Trek?
As per the Har Ki Dun Guide, the best time to plan your adventurous escapade is during the summer months from March till June and post-monsoon, between September to November.
For someone interested in snowy trails, the winter season is also a good time to go for the Har Ki Dun trek, given that you are prepared for unexpected weather and get acquainted with the changing altitudes.
What will be the temperature at Har Ki Doon Trek?
Depending on what time of the year you are planning your Har Ki Dun Trek Guide, the temperatures would vary greatly. On average, the summer weather remains bright but pleasantly cool with temperatures ranging from 5 degrees at the lowest and 20 the highest.
Monsoons and post-monsoons fluctuate between 7 and 3 degrees as the lowest and 20 to 13 degrees at the highest. Lastly, winters can have sub-zero temperatures with the lowest of -11 degrees and the highest 4 degrees.
What is Har ki Dun Trek difficulty level? What kind of physical fitness will be required to do Har Ki Doon Trek?
The Har ki Dun Trek has a grading of Easy to Moderate. It is a scenic trail that is perfect for beginners as well as experienced trekkers.
Furthermore, one does not need to have a specific level of fitness or skills. All you need to do is incorporate walks and some cardio a few weeks before the trip if you do not exercise daily.
What is the Har Ki Doon trek route?
As per the Har Ki Dun Trek Guide, the activity will begin from Dehradun and take a course of 7 days to complete a circuit of 47 kilometres. A short drive from Dehradun takes you to Sankri, which is the base camp for the trek.
The route that follows is like – Sankri – Taluka – Siyang – Dhatir village – Osla – Har Ki Dun – Juandhar glaciers -Swargarohini Basecamp – Osla – Sankri.
How is Har Ki Dun trek weather?
The Har Ki Dun Trek has pleasant weather throughout the year. There is heavy snowing during the peak winter months from December till February, and the entire trail remains covered in the snow till April. Around May, the temperatures start to rise as the weather transitions to bright summers. The temperatures, though, stay low even now.
Monsoons bring along heavy rains in the lower regions, followed by the fall season that sees a drop in temperatures.
What is the Har Ki Dun Trek Distance?
The Har Ki Dun Trek starts from Sankri Basecamp and covers 47 kilometres to reach the Har Ki Dun mountain pass. The entire activity takes 7 days to complete, including travelling, stay and the trek itself.
Is this a good trek for a first-timer?
The Har Ki Dun Trek Guide grades the entire trail as easy to moderate, making it perfect for first-timers and amateur trekking enthusiasts. This is also a great year-long trek in which you get to see a different side of the region with every progressing season. Some things to keep in mind – pack adequately, follow the guide, and also maintain some level of physical fitness a few weeks before the trip.
How should I prepare for Har ki dun trek?
Here is a Har Ki Dun Trek Guide with ways to prepare for the activity:
Start exercising with more focus on cardio and endurance. Walks and jogs would be a good way to prepare.
Eating healthy would also help build immunity, helping you in the higher altitudes.
It is important to consult with your doctor before participating in the trek and get a medical check-up for underlying health concerns.
Since the trek is lengthy, it is best to pack light but mindfully, carrying every necessary item.
Choose the warmer months to go for the trek, this way you would not have to worry about packing heavy winter wear or deal with the freezing weather.
If you are a first-timer, it is best to go for a guided group tour.
