Harsil: why do people go to Harsil Valley?

Harsil, sometimes spelled as Harshil, is a stunning valley located near a cantonment area along the banks of the Bhagirathi River. Although it is on the way to the Hindu pilgrimage site of Gangotri, it has its own unique charm which draws in visitors from all over each year. With its natural beauty and serenity, Harsil Valley Uttarakhand is truly a traveler’s paradise.

Valley

Harsil in Uttarakhand is a beautiful, preserved town in the Uttarkashi district. It sits at a height of 7,860 ft (2,620 meters) and is located 73 km from the district headquarters of Uttarkashi. The town is surrounded by the Gangotri National Park, which covers an area of 1,553 square km. Harsil is a true gem of nature and deserves to remain untouched and unspoiled.

History 

The valley became popular because of the legend of Pahari Wilson or Raja Wilson. Wilson deserted the British army after the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny and fled to the Garhwal region. He went to the King of Tehri for shelter, but the King refused to shelter him. So, Wilson ran to the mountains to hide. However, destiny led him to this valley located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River.

What To Do there

Harsil Uttarakhand is a beautiful valley that is still unknown to many people. There are several small adventure trekking routes in Harsil that provide a good insight into natural beauty along with the lifestyle in the Pahadi region.

Trekking in Harsil Valley is an unforgettable experience because of the incredible richness of its flora and fauna, as well as the mesmerizing landscapes. The mountains, forests, small waterfalls, and river streams that you’ll see on your trek will make you want to come back to this place again and again. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful oak and deodar trees throughout your journey.

Photography- The Harsil valley affords splendid views of mountains and the Bhagirathi river flowing through it. You can take up photography and videography here.

Temple-  Harsil to Gangotri-  The Bhagirathi river is the perfect companion for a relaxing trip to Harsil. You can also explore the nearby region of Gangotri while you’re there.

Village Tour-Harsil is a great example of eco-tourism. You can experience the calm environment and the hardworking lifestyle of the village people, their customs and beliefs.

Places to Visit

Dharali – The hamlet of Dharali has located 6 km from the Harsil valley. The village is well-connected to Harsil by road and sits at a height of 648 m above sea level. Dharali falls in the Rajgarhi tehsil.

Mukhwas Village is located in the Himalayan mountains and is known for being the home of the Hindu goddess Gangotri. The village is a popular destination for devotees from all over the state and country, who make a visit here every year. However, during monsoons, the area experiences heavy snowfall which can make it difficult to reach the village – so it’s best to plan your trip for another time of year!

Sat Tal is a cluster of seven small natural lakes located near Dharali. The 3 km long trek from Dharali to Sat Tal is an unforgettable journey. Some of the lakes have dried up due to deforestation and changing weather conditions.

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Harsil valley is from April to mid-July. The weather is pleasant during this time, with clear skies and beautiful mountain views. This is the perfect time for sightseeing and enjoying the outdoors.