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Har ki Dun Trek

Har Ki Dun Trek

DURATION: 10 DAY AND 9 NIGHT
LOCATION: GARHWAL HIMALAYAS
SEASON: APRIL - JUNE & SEPT - MID NOV
GRADE: EASY-MODERATE
MAX. AITITUDE: 3566 MTS/11697 FT
Trekking Routes for Har ki Dun Trek:

Rishikesh - Dehradun - Mussoorie - Sankri - Taluka - Taluka - Osla - Har - Ki Dun - Osla - Taluka - Sankri - Rishikesh

It is very popular trek in the Himalaya that can be undertaken round the year except heavy snowing in the month of December and January. Chandrashila summit is a rock face above the temple of Tungnath, the highest temple in the Himalayas. Chandrashila treks are one of the most popular treks among Indian trekking enthusiasts. The trek to the peak is 5 km. The trek route that starts from Chopta takes one toTungnath (highest Shiva temple in the World), from here it is a kilometer long, and a steep trek. Though shorter in distance, steep climbing makes this trek rigorous.


ABOUT

Har-ki-Dun, situated at an elevation of 3566 meters is surrounded by glittering peaks and dense forests. The forests are rich in wild life and are a veritable paradise for bird-watchers and nature lovers. This trek provides enjoyment for all age groups as the trek is not too tough, and valley is full of flora and fauna. One can spend time identifying herbs & shrubs used for Ayurveda. Photography is an activity that will leave an indelible mark on the visitor's memory, as there are a large variety of birds & and mountains to be clicked. This is a holy place (as the name suggests) Hari – meaning God and Dun meaning Valley and according to the local folklore, where fairies congregate. In our religious scriptures (Granth), it is mentioned that Pandavs went to heaven (Swarg) through this mountain. Duryodhan is worshipped as a God by a few communities here, and one can get to see the Duryodhan Temple. Within the valley one can find Trees of Bhojpatra, the rare Bramhakamal, and many varieties of fauna. The area also acts as a base for approaching Swargarohini (alt: 6400.8 metres) Swargarohini and Jaundar Glacier located towards the south-east of Har-ki-dun. Towards west one can see the Bandar Punch Mountain. People depend on farming Rice, Rajma, and Potatoes for their survival here. They construct very beautiful double storied houses using Cider wood rafters, stones and mud, often decorating the doorways with intricate wood carvings- depicting tales from the Mahabharata. One might find many locals sitting around the Hukka pipe usually in the early evenings, as this is a way of the local men to socialize and entertain themselves after a hard day at work. Apart from selling the local produce, tourism is fast becoming a source of livelihood for these hills folk. The Har - Ki - Doon trek is one of the most famous treks in the Garhwal Himalayas, and is also used as an introductory trek for the first time trekker! The valley of Har-ki-Doon is located at the base of Fateh Parvat, at an elevation of 3556 mts. The trek is rated as "easy" to "moderate", though one is required to be physically fit to complete this trek.

DETAIL ITINERARY (10 DAY AND 9 NIGHT)


Day 01: Arrive Dehradun (25km Drive)

Arrival at Dehra Dun by noon. Upon arrival at Dehra Dun met our representative and then transfer to Mussoorie and check in to hotel for overnight stay. Mussoorie, with its green hills and varied flora & fauna, is a fascinating hill station. Commanding snow ranges to the north-east, and glittering views of the Doon Valley & Shivalik ranges in the south, the town presents a fairyland atmosphere to the tourists. Its history dates back to 1827 when Captain Young, an adventurous military officer, explored the present site and laid the foundation of this holiday resort which now has few rivals. Mussoorie is famous for its scenic beauty and the hustle bustle of a hill resort. It provides many amusements for domestic and foreign tourists. Mussoorie is conveniently connected to road by Delhi and major cities and is the 'Gateway' to Yamunotri and Gangotri Shrines of Northern India.

Day 2: Mussoorie to Sankri (166 kms/ 5-6 hrs drive)

The twisting road follows a winding course going into the Yamuna valley via Mussoorie, and the Kempty falls, finally descending into the Tons river valley, crossing towns such as Sankri, Purola and Mori. Sankri is the last village connected to the motor road. This picturesque village is about 13 Kms inside the Govind Wild Life Sanctuary (Netwair is the place where the check post is located). Sankri is the gateway to the almost untouched Har-ki-dun (3566m) with the Swargarohini Peak (6096m) towering above it in the backdrop. Overnight in tourist rest house/tent.

Day 3: Sankri to Taluka (1900 m/6232 ft) (13 kms/3-4 hrs trek)

From Sankri the track is well marked and passes through dense forest with breathtaking views of the valley sprawled below and the gushing river Rupin. Taluka, a small hamlet nestled in the lap of nature, is also known for its beautiful "Pahari cottages" made out of an intricate wood , stone and mud ensemble - a must see, as it is considered earthquake proof, and contains the animal sheds on the ground floor, utilizing their body heat to warm the living area located directly above. The village is located at an altitude of 1900 Mts, and has guest houses and a few shack shops providing daily provisions to the local inhabitants. The campsite on this day is by the river banks of the Rupin. Overnight in tourist rest house/tent.

Day 4: Taluka to Osla (13 kms/6-7 hrs trek) (2560 m / 8400 ft)

The trail from Taluka village initially descends and then continues gradually on the true left of the valley adjoining the river Rupin. Later the trail winds upwards through beautiful forest full of Chestnut, Walnut and Willow trees, and continues to the village of Gangar. One has to cross a stream here and continue to climb to finally vet a bird eye's view of the settlement of picturesque Osla village at a distant on the true right of the valley. From this point, one continues to trek to Seema. The campsite is located opposite to the village of Osla and separated by the swift river. Seema is a small village with a few shops selling limited supplies of daily use. A Forest Rest House and Tourist Bungalow are available for the visitors. Overnight in tourist rest house/tent.

Day 5: Osla to Hari ki Doon (3566 m / 11700 ft) (12 kms/6-7 hrs)

The trail from Seema initially continues on the true left of the valley, goes past fields followed by crossing a hanging bridge over river Rupin, to the right hand side of the valley. The trail now ascends, going past fields and pastures with local huts. The coniferous flora on the opposite side of the valley is awesome and is a photographer's delight. The trail climbs to the ridge locally named as Kalkatti Dhar, The gradual ascent to Har ki dun offers excellent views of the snow covered mountains and lush green terraced mountain fields. The last steep climb of 200 m gets one to the famed meadows of Har ki Dun with the west face of Swargarohini overlooking the valley. The campsite is located by a small stream, with peaks of Har Ki Dun and Swargarohini towering above. Overnight in the tents.

Day 06: Har Ki Dun

The day is for relaxation and exploration. Having a morning at ease you can explore Morinda Lake in the first half of the day. One can see Kala nag, Bandar poonch, Ruinsara peaks and the majestic Swargarohini even before one reaches Har ki Doon. A truly heavenly and peaceful place, for those wanting to spend some time by themselves feeling one with the vast expanse. One realizes that it is not a destination spot by itself; it doesn't feel like one, you will want to go right towards Swargarohini and Jumnar glacier or left towards Borasu pass (Taking one to Chitkul in Himachal). The huge and picturesque valley is flanked by massive mountains on three sides, and the valley floor is covered in soft grassy patches. Lunch and rest. Overnight in the tents.

Day 7: Hari ki Doon to Osla (12 kms/6-7 hrs trek)

The trek back to the village of Osla is an easy walk which gives a lot of opportunity to admire and photograph the beauty of the valley and the villages. The trek to Osla takes around 3-4 hrs. Overnight in tourist rest house/ tent.

Day 8: Osla to Taluka (13 kms/3-4 hrs trek)

The walk towards Taluka village is equally easy as the previous day. Absorb the natural beauty while taking the relaxing descent down the breathtaking valley. Overnight in rest house/ hotel.

Day 9: Taluka to Sankri (13 kms/3-4 hrs trek)

The trek for the day is relaxing and fun walk through the forest and on the well marked path. On arriving Sankri bid farewell to ponies/ porters. Overnight in the tent/ hotel

Day 10: Sankri to Rishikesh 225 drive

After an early breakfast Board the vehicle and start driving towards Rishikesh, the capital of Yoga in Uttarakhand. Hotel check in. Take out time to visit places such as the Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, Caurasi kutiya, Ganga Arti at Triveni ghat.


Tour Conclude.