A Guide: Trek to Gangotri National Park Uttarakhand

Gangotri National Park: “Gangotri”, meaning “sacred river of India,  the Ganges”, is India’s first national park lying in Uttarakhand. It has been established in 1989 and is spread over an area of 1,553 square kilometers – that’s the size of nearly 3000 soccer fields combined! Scaled up to an altitude of 7,073 meters above sea level, Trek to Gangotri National Park is home to many trails. offers many trekking routes in the park.

Gangotri National Park Uttarakhand

Nestled deep in the Garhwal Himalayas, Gangotri National Park is one of India’s most spectacular high-altitude wilderness regions. Established in 1989 and spread across 1,553 sq. km, this pristine Himalayan sanctuary protects some of the country’s most sacred landscapes. The word “Gangotri” refers to the holy Ganges River, which originates from the glaciers inside the park.

With elevations rising to 7,073 meters, this is a paradise for trekkers, wildlife lovers, photographers, and spiritual seekers. The Trek to Gangotri National Park offers a blend of alpine meadows, dense forests, glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and mythological heritage.

If you’re planning an adventure in Uttarakhand, here is the ultimate guide to the best trekking routes inside Gangotri National Park.

Top Treks in Gangotri National Park Uttarakhand

1. Tapovan Trek – The Crown Jewel of Gangotri (39.1 km)

Difficulty: Highly Challenging
Ideal For: Experienced trekkers, mountaineers, adventure lovers

The Tapovan trek is one of the most iconic high-altitude routes in India. This 39 km out-and-back trail begins from Gangotri and climbs beyond Gaumukh Glacier to reach a vast meadow at the base of Mt. Shivling.

Why Tapovan is Famous

• Campsites surrounded by Himalayan giants

• Opportunity to witness Shivling Peak, Bhagirathi sisters, and Meru

• Popular for backpacking, birding, photography, and camping

• Known for challenging boulder zones and icy slopes

Important: Dogs and unregistered trekkers are not allowed. Only experienced travelers should attempt this route.

2. Bhojbasa (Bhojwasa) Trek – Scenic & Accessible

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 14 km from Gangotri

The trek to Bhojbasa is one of the most scenic trails inside Gangotri National Park. It leads through pine forests, river valleys, and panoramic Himalayan views.

Why Trekkers Love Bhojbasa

• Wide valley landscapes

• Peaceful riverside campsite

• Base for Gaumukh & Tapovan trekkers

• Ideal for beginners seeking a spiritual Himalayan experience

Bhojbasa is also the only place with accommodation on the trek, including ashrams and GMVN rest houses.

3. Gaumukh Trek – The Source of the Ganges

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 18–19 km from Gangotri

The Gaumukh trek leads to the ice cave where the Ganges River (Bhagirathi) emerges. The trail passes Chirbasa, Gila Pahar, and Bhojbasa before reaching the glacier.

Highlights

• View of Gangotri Glacier, one of India’s largest

• Incredible Himalayan panoramas

• Sacred significance for pilgrims

• A mix of rocky terrain and glacier moraines

This is one of the most popular treks in Gangotri National Park for nature lovers, yogis, and photographers.

4. Chirbasa Trek – Pine Forest Beauty

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9 km from Gangotri

The trek to Chirbasa is perfect for hikers seeking a shorter day trek with beautiful scenery. The name “Chirbasa” means “home of pine trees”, and the trail is surrounded by dense forests and river views.

Ideal For

• First-time trekkers

• Families

• Short explorations inside Gangotri National Park

Many trekkers camp or rest here before heading toward Gaumukh.

5. Kyarkoti Lake Trek – For Offbeat Explorers

Difficulty: Challenging
Best For: Experienced trekkers, solitude lovers

The Kyarkoti Lake trek is a hidden gem inside Gangotri National Park. The trail passes through alpine meadows, boulder fields, and serene high-altitude valleys.

Why It’s Special

• Offbeat & untouched

• Snow-covered peaks reflected in the lake

• Zero crowd experience

• Perfect for wilderness photography

This trek offers complete Himalayan isolation and raw beauty.

6. Nelong Valley – The Forbidden Himalayan Valley

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (2.5 km trek from Gartang Gali)
Location: Indo-China border zone

The Nelong Valley is one of the most dramatic landscapes in Uttarakhand. Once closed after the Indo-China War of 1962, it was reopened recently after decades of restoration.

Why Visit Nelong Valley

• Rugged Tibetan-style landscapes

• Ancient trade route views

• Close to steep gorges and rocky cliffs

• Rare wildlife sightings (snow leopard zone)

Entry is regulated, and permits are required.

7. Gartang Gali – The Historic Himalayan Skywalk

Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Wooden bridge trail

Gartang Gali is one of the most spectacular man-made engineering marvels in Uttarakhand. Originally built over 100 years ago by Pathan traders from Peshawar, this wooden skywalk once served as a trade route between India and Tibet.

What Makes Gartang Gali Special

• Restored and reopened after 59 years

• Offers thrilling cliff-side views

• Perfect for adventure photography

• Located inside Gangotri National Park

This is now a must-visit highlight for travelers exploring the region.

⭐ Best Time to Trek in Gangotri National Park

• May – June: Clear weather, ideal for long treks

• September – November: Crystal-clear views, colder nights

• Avoid Monsoon: Landslides, slippery trails

• Winter: Heavy snowfall; most trails closed

⭐ Permits & Important Travel Tips

• Permits: Mandatory for all treks inside the park

• Carry warm layers, trekking poles, and rain gear

• Trek with licensed guides for safety

• Keep the park clean — no littering allowed

• Entry to sensitive border areas requires special approval

Conclusion

The Trek to Gangotri National Park Uttarakhand offers some of the most iconic Himalayan experiences—from glacier origins to sacred valleys, ancient bridges, pine forests, and high-altitude lakes. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a first-time Himalayan traveler, Gangotri has a trail for you.

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