Gartang Gali Uttarakhand: How to travel from Rishikesh?

Gartang Gali is a high-altitude mountain pass located in the Nelong Valley, in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. The pass sits at an elevation of around 5,100 meters (16,730 feet) above sea level and connects the Nelong Valley to the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

The Gartang Gali pass was historically a trade route between India and Tibet.  The famous Chinese explorer Hiuen Tsang used this route to come in India in the 7th century.

Historic Pathway

The bridge spans  136 meters  in a wooden lining. it  was constructed by Peshawari Pathans over 150 years ago. This architectural marvel was meticulously carved into a vertical granite rock face. Initially utilized by merchants trading between India and Tibet. The route fell into disrepair following the Indo-China conflict of 1962.

After extensive reconstruction efforts, the 1.8-meter-wide bridge now stands at an altitude of approximately 3,352 meters (11,000 feet), offering a thrilling challenge to even the most adventurous souls. Hanging precariously from the rocky ledge, it provides panoramic views of the enchanting Nelong Valley and its diverse flora and fauna, with the Jadh Ganga river flowing far below. The Gartang Gali trek distance 2.5-kilometer  through dense forests to reach bridge.

7 Years in Tibet

Interestingly, History has it that this very bridge served as the escape route for Austrian climber Heinrich Harrer during World War II, a tale immortalized in his book “Seven Years in Tibet” and the subsequent Hollywood film starring Brad Pitt.

Nelong Valley 

The Nelong Valley is a remote and pristine Himalayan region that was closed to tourists for several decades due to its proximity to the India-China border. The valley was reopened to tourists in 2015 but remains a restricted area, requiring special permits to visit.

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Gartang Gali Wooden Bridge

It is constructed by cutting the mountain rock in a traditional style, provides breathtaking views of Uttarakhand’s Nelong Valley and its flora and fauna. The Uttarkashi district administration allows only 10 tourists on the bridge simultaneously. Don’t forget to visit the Lal Devata Temple.

Best Time visit

It  is accessible between May and November, making it the ideal time to visit Nelong Valley in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Plan your trip accordingly.

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How To Reach

To visit Nelong Valley, you need an inner line permit and a fitness certificate from the sub-divisional magistrate of Uttarkashi. It’s an India-China border area open for tourists during the daytime, located around 90 km from Uttarkashi HQ.Only Forest Department vehicles can carry a maximum of 4 travelers. Only Indian travelers are currently permitted.

FAQ

Q. Gartang Gali From Rishikesh?

A. From Rishikesh, you can reach by road via Uttarkashi and Harsil. The journey covers 260 km and takes at least 8 hours.

Q. Gartang Gali Distance From Rishikesh?

A. From Rishikesh distance  is approx. 260 km by road.

Q. Gartang Gali to Gangotri Distance?

A It is just 10  km before Gangotri Temple which requires maximum 30 minutes by road

Q. Gartang Gali From Dehradun?

A.  Approx. 230 km by road  from Dehradun city center.

Q. Gartang Gali in December?

A. It covers with snow, so in December, closed.

Q. How to reach Gartang Gali from Delhi

A. From Delhi you can reach via Dehradun and Uttarkashi.

Q. How to reach Gartang Gali Uttarakhand

A. From Rishikesh, you can reach  by road via Uttarkashi and Harsil. The journey covers 260 km and takes at least 8 hours. From Uttarkashi, it requires a 3-hour road trip to cover the remaining 90 km.