About Gunji Village Uttarakhand: The Best Tourism village in India

Gunji Village is in the northern reaches of Uttarakhand, near the border of  Indo-Tibet and Nepal, lies the enchanting village of Gunji. This remote Himalayan settlement, perched at an altitude of 3500 meters, is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes you’ll ever encounter.

In this travel blog, we invite you to embark on a journey to Gunji Village, where you’ll discover a world of seasonal migration, stunning vistas, and a unique blend of Indian culture set against a backdrop of international border intrigue.

Getting There: Gunji Village

Before you set foot in Gunji, be prepared to obtain an Inner Line Permit, which is issued by the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Dharchula. To secure this permit, make sure you have a valid ID, a health certificate, and a character certificate at hand. Once you have the permit in hand, you can begin your journey from Dharchula, which is easily accessible by road from various parts of India.

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Dharchula to Gunji Village:

As you travel from Dharchula to Gunji, you’ll be treated to stunning views along the western bank of the Sharda River. This journey is a gateway to multiple adventures, as you can choose to go north to Kailash-Mansarovar or west to Adi Kailash. The newly constructed roads in the area have made these treks more accessible than ever before, reducing travel times significantly.

Life in Gunji Village:

Gunji is not just a village; it’s a testament to human resilience in the harshest of conditions. With a population of around 335 people, the village comes alive seasonally. In winter, most families migrate to lower places, primarily Dharchula, to escape the freezing temperatures.

However, a few dozen families remain in Gunji, braving temperatures that can plummet to minus 20 degrees Celsius. In summer, when the snow retreats, they return, embarking on a steep climb back to their homes.

The people of Gunji engage in farming, cultivating crops like buckwheat, rajma, and peas when the weather permits. These crops are harvested in October, after which families return to their winter homes with their animals. It’s a testament to their enduring connection to the land and their resilience in the face of adversity.

What to Explore: Gunji Village

Gunji, despite its remote location, boasts several essential facilities. There’s an Indo-Tibetan Border Police camp, a Sashastra Seema Bal camp, a Customs Office, an Intelligence Bureau (IB) Office, and even temporary branches of the State Bank of India and a post office.

These institutions serve not only the local population but also the pilgrims on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, who pass through Gunji on their spiritual journey.

For trekkers and travelers, Gunji offers a place to rest and refuel. Accommodations and food are available, making it a crucial stopover for those embarking on the Kailas-Manas Sarovar trek or other Himalayan adventures.

Conclusion: Gunji Village

Gunji Village is a hidden gem in the heart of the Himalayas, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and international intrigue. As you explore this remote village, you’ll witness the seasonal rhythms of life.

If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure that takes you to the borderlands of India, Tibet, and Nepal, Gunji is the place to be. Just remember to secure your Inner Line Permit and be prepared for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas.

Here’s a simple travel itinerary based on your details, designed for pilgrims visiting Mount Kailash, Adi Kailash, and Om Parvat via Pithoragarh and Gunji:

Day 1: Pithoragarh to Gunji (Via Helicopter)

• Transport: Road transfer from KMVN TRH Pithoragarh to Pithoragarh helipad, helicopter ride from Pithoragarh to Gunji.
• Stay: Overnight at homestay in Gunji.
• Inclusions:
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner.
  • Other: Night stay at homestay, road transport from Gunji helipad to the homestay.

Day 2: Visit to Adi Kailash

• Activities: Sightseeing tour of Adi Kailash, road transport from homestay to Jolingkong and return to Gunji.
• Stay: Overnight at homestay in Gunji.
• Inclusions:
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner.
  • Other: Night stay at homestay, sightseeing and transport for the Adi Kailash visit.

Day 3: Visit to Om Parvat and Old Lipulekh Pass

• Activities: Day trip to Om Parvat and Old Lipulekh Pass.
• Stay: Overnight at homestay in Gunji.
• Inclusions:
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner.
  • Other: Night stay at homestay, road transport from homestay to Old Lipulekh Pass and back.

Day 4: Return to Pithoragarh (Via Helicopter)

• Transport: Road transfer from homestay to Gunji helipad, helicopter ride from Gunji to Pithoragarh, road transfer from Pithoragarh helipad to KMVN TRH Pithoragarh.
• Inclusions:
  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Other: Helicopter ride and road transport back to Pithoragarh.
• Tour Concludes

This journey offers an incredible opportunity to experience Mount Kailash, Adi Kailash, and Om Parvat all from Indian soil, with comfortable homestays, helicopter rides, and full meal services included!

Adi Kailash and Om Parvat: Sacred Mountains of Lord Shiva

Adi Kailash, often called the replica of Mount Kailash, is a revered and serene resting place of Lord Shiva, the god of destruction in Hinduism. According to Hindu mythology, it is said that Shiva meditated and spent time at Adi Kailash, making this snow-capped peak a spiritual gem that radiates beauty and peace throughout the valley.

Every year, thousands of Indian pilgrims from around the globe undertake a sacred journey, or Yatra, to Adi Kailash. This pilgrimage is not just a physical trek; it holds deep spiritual significance.

It is believed that by completing the Yatra, pilgrims cleanse their unintentional sins, restoring their karma cycle. This powerful experience connects them deeply with their faith and brings peace to their soul.

Another fascinating legend tied to Adi Kailash is the story of Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. It is said that Ravana, in his quest for divine powers, prayed intensely to Lord Shiva at Adi Kailash. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva blessed Ravana with the strength and brilliance of ten men, which became a key part of Ravana’s mythological prowess.

Just nearby, Om Parvat stands as one of the most sacred and mystical mountains for devotees of Shiva. Among the eight Himalayan mountain ranges, Om Parvat is the only one with a miraculous natural impression of the sacred symbol “Om” clearly visible on its face.

This phenomenon is so extraordinary that many people travel from all over the world just to witness the divine ‘Om’ etched into the mountain. It’s a sight that cannot be explained but must be seen to be believed, drawing both devotees and curious travelers alike.

Both Adi Kailash and Om Parvat are more than just beautiful peaks; they are places of deep spiritual connection, rich in legends and history. Visiting these mountains offers pilgrims a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the sacred landscape of Lord Shiva’s realm, experiencing both nature’s beauty and divine grace.

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