How to Reach Gaumukh from Gangotri: Complete Trek & Travel Guide (2026)

Gaumukh, the sacred source of the River Ganga, is one of the most spiritually powerful and scenic destinations in the Indian Himalayas. Located inside Gangotri National Park, Gaumukh can only be reached on foot from Gangotri.

This travel guide explains how to reach Gaumukh from Gangotri, including distance, permits, trekking route, best time to visit, packing tips, and FAQs.

Where is Gaumukh Located?

Gaumukh is the snout of the Bhagirathi River, situated at an altitude of approx. 3,892 meters (12,769 ft). It lies about 18 km from Gangotri and is accessible only by trekking.

Distance from Gangotri to Gaumukh

• Gangotri to Gaumukh distance: ~18 km (one way)

• Trek duration: 6–8 hours (one way)

• Difficulty level: Moderate

• Route: Gangotri → Chirbasa → Bhojbasa → Gaumukh

How to Reach Gaumukh from Gangotri (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Reach Gangotri First

Gangotri is well connected by road.

• From Rishikesh: ~270 km

• From Uttarkashi: ~100 km

You can reach Gangotri by taxi, shared jeep, or bus via Uttarkashi.

Step 2: Obtain Permit for Gaumukh Trek

A mandatory permit is required to trek to Gaumukh.

• Issued by: Forest Department / Gangotri National Park

• Apply online or at Uttarkashi

• Daily limit: 150 trekkers per day

• Carry: ID proof + medical fitness

Without a permit, entry beyond Gangotri is not allowed.

Step 3: Trek from Gangotri to Gaumukh

• Altitude: ~3,600 m

• Time: 3–4 hours

• Scenic trail with river views and blue pine forests

Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (5 km)

• Altitude: ~3,800 m

• Terrain becomes rocky and windy

• Bhojbasa has basic accommodation & GMVN guest house

Bhojbasa to Gaumukh (4 km)

• Steep, rocky, glacier-fed terrain

• Requires caution due to falling stones

• No staying allowed at Gaumukh

Can You Visit Gaumukh in One Day?

• Highly fit trekkers: Yes (same-day return possible)

• Recommended: 2 days (overnight at Bhojbasa)

Most pilgrims and trekkers prefer staying at Bhojbasa and visiting Gaumukh early morning.

Best Time to Visit Gaumukh from Gangotri

Important Rules for Gaumukh Trek

• Plastic items are strictly banned

• No camping near Gaumukh

• Stay only at Chirbasa or Bhojbasa

• Carry back all waste

• Respect forest & religious rules

What to Pack for Gaumukh Trek

• Trekking shoes with good grip

• Warm jacket, gloves, woolen cap

• Rain jacket (weather changes fast)

• Water bottle & energy snacks

• ID, permits, basic medicines

Gangotri to Gaumukh Trek FAQs

Is Gaumukh trek difficult?
Moderate difficulty. Suitable for beginners with good fitness.

Is oxygen needed?
Usually no, but acclimatization is important.

Can elderly people visit Gaumukh?
Only if medically fit and accustomed to walking long distances.

Is Gaumukh safe?
Yes, if visited in season and with permit.

Gangotri to Gaumukh – Travel Tips

• Start trekking early morning

• Weather changes suddenly—carry layers

• Drink water frequently to avoid AMS

• Avoid monsoon season completely

Gangotri to Gaumukh Itinerary (1–3 Days) – Complete Trek Plan

The Gangotri to Gaumukh trek is a sacred Himalayan journey to the origin of the River Ganga. Depending on your fitness, time, and spiritual interest, this trek can be completed in 1, 2, or 3 days.

This SEO-optimized, mobile-friendly itinerary helps pilgrims and trekkers plan their visit efficiently.

Trek Overview (Quick Facts)

• Start point: Gangotri

• Destination: Gaumukh

• Total distance: ~36 km (round trip)

• Max altitude: 3,892 m

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Permit required: Yes (Gangotri National Park)

Option 1: Gangotri to Gaumukh – 1 Day Itinerary

(For fit trekkers & experienced pilgrims)

Day 1: Gangotri → Gaumukh → Gangotri

• Early start: 5:00–6:00 AM

• Trek distance: 18 km one way

• Time: 12–14 hours round trip

Route:
Gangotri → Chirbasa → Bhojbasa → Gaumukh → return

Highlights:

• Darshan at Gaumukh

• Views of Bhagirathi River

• Continuous walking trail with river accompaniment

Important Notes:

• No overnight stay

• Not recommended for beginners

• Carry enough food & water

Option 2: Gangotri to Gaumukh – 2 Days Itinerary

(Most popular & recommended)

Day 1: Gangotri → Bhojbasa (14 km)

• Trek time: 5–6 hours

• Route:

  • Gangotri → Chirbasa (9 km)

  • Chirbasa → Bhojbasa (5 km)

Stay:

• GMVN Guest House Bhojbasa

• Forest tents / simple lodges

Highlights:

• Chirbasa valley views

• Peaceful evening near Bhagirathi River

• Sunset on Bhagirathi peaks

Day 2: Bhojbasa → Gaumukh → Gangotri

• Distance: 4 km one way to Gaumukh

• Time: 2 hours ascent

Activities at Gaumukh:

• Holy dip (if conditions allow)

• Photography

• Quiet meditation

After darshan, return to Gangotri via Bhojbasa.

Option 3: Gangotri to Gaumukh – 3 Days Itinerary

(Relaxed, spiritual & photography-friendly)

Day 1: Gangotri → Chirbasa (9 km)

• Trek time: 3–4 hours

• Stay: Camps or forest huts

Why stop at Chirbasa?

• Better acclimatization

• Forest views & calm atmosphere

• Ideal for elderly pilgrims

Day 2: Chirbasa → Bhojbasa → Gaumukh (9 km total)

• Early trek to Bhojbasa

• Continue to Gaumukh

• Spend more time at glacier

Stay: Bhojbasa

Day 3: Bhojbasa → Gangotri (14 km)

• Descend comfortably

• Visit Gangotri Temple

• Rest and departure

Best Time for Gangotri to Gaumukh Trek

Accommodation Options

• Gangotri: Hotels, dharamshalas

• Chirbasa: Limited forest huts

• Bhojbasa: GMVN Guest House (most reliable)

Essential Tips for Gaumukh Itinerary

• Start trekking early each day

• Carry permit & ID at all times

• No plastic allowed

• Weather changes fast—carry layers

• Do not stay near Gaumukh glacier

Who Should Choose Which Itinerary?

• 1 Day: Experienced trekkers only

• 2 Days: Most pilgrims & travelers

• 3 Days: Elderly, photographers, spiritual seekers

Final Thoughts

Reaching Gaumukh from Gangotri is not just a trek—it is a spiritual journey to the very origin of the Ganga. Whether you are a pilgrim, nature lover, or trekker, this route offers unmatched Himalayan beauty and divine energy.

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