# Vasuki Tal Trek > Vasuki Tal Trek is a 9-day difficult trek in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, reaching 4,880 m (16,010 ft). It covers about 71 km on foot and starts and ends at Gangotri. Best time: May to June and September to October. Trekkaro price: ₹28,500 per person + 5% GST, with free trekking gear (Decathlon shoes, -10°C jacket and poles). Next batch: 10 Oct 2026 (16 upcoming batches). Source: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/vasuki-tal-trek (Trekkaro Adventures Pvt. Ltd.). Prices, dates and seats change often: always confirm on the trek page. ## Key facts - **Duration:** 9 days - **Difficulty:** Difficult - **Highest point:** 4,880 m / 16,010 ft - **Trekking distance:** 71 km - **Region:** Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand - **Start / end:** Gangotri - **Best time:** May to June and September to October - **Temperature:** In summer (May-June) - Daytime temperature: 5°C to 12°C and Night time temperature: -3°C to 3°C. In winter (September - October) - Daytime temperature: 2°C to 7°C and Night time temperature: -15°C to -5°C - **Price:** ₹28,500 per person + 5% GST (was ₹38,000) - **Free trekking gear:** Included (Decathlon shoes, -10 C jacket, trekking poles; gaiters and microspikes when needed) - **Next batch:** 10 Oct 2026 (16 upcoming) ## Overview The Ganga begins in ice. At Gaumukh, the snout of the Gangotri Glacier, blocks of it break away and crash into the river below. On the Vasuki Tal trek, that is where the real climb begins: up steep moraine to a meadow at the foot of Shivling, across the boulders and ice of the glacier itself, and on to a still lake at 4,880 metres where the summits of the Gangotri group look down at their own reflection. Nine days, one river, and a slow walk from a temple town to the edge of the ice. The Vasuki Tal trek follows the Bhagirathi upstream from Gangotri, through the pine forest of Chirbasa and the riverside camp at Bhojbasa, to Gaumukh, the mythological and geographical source of the Ganga. Above the snout it leaves the pilgrim path and climbs to Tapovan, the high meadow where Shivling (6,543 m / 21,467 ft) rises like a needle over your tent, with Meru beside it. From there it crosses the Gangotri Glacier to Nandanvan, a green meadow at the base of the Bhagirathi massif, and ends at Vasuki Tal, a glacial lake ringed by rugged ridges and steep banks of alpine vegetation. Sudarshan, Kharchakund, Kedar Dome, Satopanth and the three Bhagirathi peaks complete the circle around you. The Vasuki Tal trek is a 9-day, 71 km high-altitude trek in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal Himalayas. It starts and ends at Gangotri (3,065 m / 10,050 ft), the temple town where, by tradition, the Ganga descended to Earth, and it climbs to Vasuki Tal at 4,880 m (16,010 ft), the highest point of the route. On the way it camps at Bhojbasa (3,800 m), Tapovan (4,463 m) and Nandanvan (4,340 m). It is graded Difficult because of its moraine climbs, its glacier crossing and its nights above 4,000 metres, and it is as much a pilgrimage as a trek, passing through some of the holiest landscapes of the Garhwal region. In our experience, few treks in Uttarakhand put you this close to so many big peaks for so many days in a row. ### Beneath Shivling, Across the Ice – What Makes the Vasuki Tal Trek Unmissable On many treks, the big peaks are a view across a valley. On Vasuki Tal you walk among them. The day that changes everything starts at Bhojbasa. You leave camp early and follow the river for two to three hours to Gaumukh, where the glacier snout stands in front of you and ice breaks off into the water that becomes the Ganga. Then the trail turns uphill. You climb over glacial moraine, rocky patches and steep ridges, about 675 metres of height in a 6–7 hour day, stopping often to breathe in the thin air. And then the ground levels out into Tapovan: a wide meadow at 4,463 metres with streams running through it and wildflowers in the grass, and Shivling, often called the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas”, standing straight above it. In the evening the last light turns the snow on Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks gold. Tapovan has long been known as a retreat for sages, and it is still a meeting place for sadhus and mountaineers. Sitting there at dusk, it is easy to understand why. The next day asks something different of you. You descend steeply onto the Gangotri Glacier and spend the day crossing its uneven surface of moraine, boulders and icy patches, with crevasses in the ice and Himalayan giants on every side: Shivling, the elegant Meru, Kedar Dome and the imposing Bhagirathi peaks. The height change is small, a loss of about 120 metres, yet the 7 km takes 5–6 hours, because every step needs thought. It is real glacier travel, slow and absorbing, and it shows you the raw shape of a Himalayan glacier from the inside. Nandanvan, when you reach it, is green grass beneath the Bhagirathi massif, and after a day of grey stone and ice the contrast feels almost unreal. Then comes the lake. Vasuki Tal lies at 4,880 metres, encircled by rugged ridges and steep banks dotted with alpine vegetation. On a calm day its clear water holds the snow summits around it, and the view takes in Shivling, the Bhagirathi peaks, Meru and Satopanth together. You stand at the water’s edge, far above the last tree and a long way from the nearest road, and watch the mountains settle into the surface. The river you followed out of Gangotri is far below now. Up here there is only still water, stone and snow, and for a while that is enough. ### The Bhagirathi Valley Itself Few routes change character as completely as this one. The first day on foot from Gangotri climbs gently along the Bhagirathi through coniferous forest, with snowy peaks appearing between the tall trees. Chirbasa, at 3,580 metres, is known as the home of pines, and beyond it the forest gives way to alpine meadow and rocky paths. Here the first close views of the Bhagirathi peaks and Shivling open up, and the air turns cooler and thinner. Bhojbasa, at 3,800 metres, takes its name from the bhoj, or birch, trees that once flourished there; today it is an open riverbank camp with wide meadows and an unbroken view of the high peaks, where the sunset turns their snow gold. Above Gaumukh the trees are gone. The land becomes moraine, rock and ice, broken by two islands of green: Tapovan, with its streams and wildflowers, and Nandanvan, under the Bhagirathi massif. Herds of bharal, the blue sheep of the Himalayas, are often seen moving along the ridgelines above the trail. Over a few days you walk from pine shade to bare glacier and on to a lake beyond the last of the meadows, and watching that change unfold one step at a time is one of the quiet rewards of this route. ### Who Is This Trek For? The Vasuki Tal trek is graded Difficult, and we recommend it for trekkers with prior Himalayan experience and good fitness. It is not a first high-altitude trek. Walking days run 7–14 km and take 5–7 hours, with long hours on steep ascents, moraine and glacier. The hardest stretch is the climb from Gaumukh to Tapovan, about 675 metres of height on steep, loose ground in a day that starts by 6 am, followed by the slow crossing of the Gangotri Glacier to Nandanvan. You spend several nights camping above 4,000 metres, and in May and June snow still lies on parts of the trail. An acclimatisation day at Gangotri is built in before the trek begins to climb. We suggest at least eight weeks of steady preparation before departure, so that the moraine days feel controlled rather than exhausting. Season: May to June and September to October. ### Key Highlights of the Vasuki Tal Trek - **Gaumukh, the source of the Ganga** – the snout of the Gangotri Glacier at 3,900 m (12,795 ft), whose name means “cow’s mouth”, where blocks of ice break off into the river. - **Tapovan beneath Shivling** – a high meadow at 4,463 m (14,640 ft), with Shivling (6,543 m / 21,467 ft) rising straight above camp. - **Crossing the Gangotri Glacier** – a full day on moraine, boulders and icy patches, with big peaks on every side. - **Nandanvan under the Bhagirathi massif** – a green meadow at 4,340 m (14,240 ft), in sharp contrast to the ice around it. - **Vasuki Tal at 4,880 m (16,010 ft)** – the highest point of the trek, a glacial lake with views of Shivling, the Bhagirathi peaks, Meru and Satopanth. - **A circle of Garhwal giants** – Shivling, Meru, Sudarshan, Kharchakund, Kedar Dome, Satopanth and Bhagirathi I, II and III. - **Gangotri, a Char Dham shrine** – the temple town at the start, with its evening aarti and short acclimatisation walks to Surya Kund and Pandava Gufa. - **From pine forest to bare ice** – the pines of Chirbasa, the riverside camp of Bhojbasa and then glacier country, with bharal often seen on the ridgelines. ### Best Time to Do the Vasuki Tal Trek The Vasuki Tal trek runs in two windows: May to June, before the monsoon, and September to October, after it. Both reach the same lake beneath the same peaks, but they feel like different treks. The early window brings lingering snow and milder nights; the later one brings clear skies and serious cold. #### May to June – Snow on the Upper Trail The early season opens with the high trail still holding on to winter. Snow lingers in patches near Gaumukh and around Vasuki Tal, so the upper days ask more of you, and conditions are challenging yet rewarding. Lower down, high-altitude flora begins to bloom, and the days are cool and bright for walking. Nights at camp are cold but far gentler than in autumn. For trekkers who want snow underfoot on the high trail without the deepest cold of the year, this is a strong window. - **Temperatures:** Day: 5°C to 12°C | Night at camp: -3°C to 3°C - **Trail conditions:** Snow patches near Gaumukh and Vasuki Tal; lingering snow on parts of the upper trail. - **Best for:** Snow on the high trail, early high-altitude flora and milder nights at camp. #### September to October – Post-Monsoon Clarity Once the monsoon passes, the skies over the upper Bhagirathi valley clear, and this is the best time of year for wide, sharp views of the big peaks. Shivling stands crisp above Tapovan, and from Vasuki Tal the Bhagirathi peaks, Meru and Satopanth line up under clear skies. The trade-off is cold. Days are crisp rather than warm, and nights at the high camps fall far below freezing. For trekkers who come for the mountains above all else, the clarity is worth the cold. - **Temperatures:** Day: 2°C to 7°C | Night at camp: -15°C to -5°C - **Trail conditions:** Clear post-monsoon skies; cold days and very cold nights at the upper camps. - **Best for:** The clearest views of Shivling and the Gangotri peaks, and snow summits mirrored in Vasuki Tal on calm days. #### Trekkaro Recommendation For the grandest, clearest views of Shivling and the Gangotri group, we recommend a September to October batch, provided you are ready for nights far below freezing. If you would rather walk with snow on the upper trail and milder nights at camp, choose May to June. In either window, give yourself enough time to prepare properly; the trek rewards trekkers who arrive strong. ## Itinerary ### Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Gangotri **Route Details:** **Drive: Dehradun → Gangotri (~241 km, 10–11 hrs) | Altitude: 655 m → 3,065 m (10,050 ft) | Stay: Guesthouse / homestay (triple or quad sharing)** The Vasuki Tal journey starts on the road. It is a long drive of about 241 km, and we recommend leaving Dehradun around 6:30 AM so you reach Gangotri by evening with time left for the temple. The route climbs through Mussoorie and then follows the Bhagirathi River up the valley: Uttarkashi with its temples and ashrams, the small town of Bhatwari, and then the apple-laden valleys of Harshil and Dharali. As you gain height, the views open to snow-dusted ridges, streams tumbling down the hillsides and thick pine and deodar forest. Trekkaro can arrange a shared taxi from Dehradun Railway Station at an additional cost. Bhatwari has the last reliable ATM before Gangotri, so withdraw enough cash there for the whole trip. Gangotri is the last place with a steady mobile signal, on BSNL, Jio and Airtel. Once you cross Bhojwasa on Day 3, expect to be completely off-grid until you return. Gangotri, at 3,065 m (10,050 ft), is the base for the Gaumukh, Tapovan and Vasuki Tal route and a sacred pilgrimage town. It is believed to be the place where the Ganga descended to Earth, sanctified by Lord Shiva. After you check in, visit the Gangotri temple, stroll through the market, meet the sadhus or simply sit by the river for a while. The day ends with a group introduction and trek briefing after dinner. What to Expect: - ~241 km drive (10–11 hrs) via Mussoorie, Uttarkashi, Bhatwari, Harshil and Dharali - Early start from Dehradun around 6:30 AM; shared taxi can be arranged at an additional cost - Last ATM at Bhatwari; last stable mobile signal at Gangotri - Evening at the Gangotri temple and market - Group introduction and trek briefing after dinner - Overnight: Gangotri guesthouse / homestay (3,065 m / 10,050 ft) ### Day 2: Acclimatisation Day at Gangotri **Route Details:** **Altitude: 3,065 m (10,050 ft) | Activity: optional short hikes to Surya Kund and Pandava Gufa, 4–6 km, 3–4 hrs | Altitude gain: minimal (~100–200 m) | Stay: Guesthouse / homestay** Day 2 is an acclimatisation day, and on a trek that climbs to 4,880 m it is one of the most important days of the itinerary. You stay at Gangotri, 3,065 m (10,050 ft), and give your body time to adjust before the trail begins. Light activity helps you adapt far better than complete rest, so the plan is a few easy walks rather than a day in bed. After breakfast, take short hikes to Surya Kund and Pandava Gufa, 4–6 km in all over 3–4 hours, with only 100–200 m of gain. The trails pass pine and deodar forest and run along the Bhagirathi River, with snow-clad peaks in the distance, and they give you a first feel of the terrain. Walk at an easy pace, avoid overexertion and drink 3–4 litres of water spread through the day. In the afternoon, visit the Gangotri temple, one of the four Char Dham shrines. Stay for the evening aarti if you can; it is a moving way to close the day. You can also walk the riverbank or browse the market. The rest of the time is kept light to save energy. Later, the trek leader runs a briefing on the route, safety tips and acclimatisation guidelines for the days ahead. What to Expect: - Rest and acclimatisation at Gangotri before going higher - Optional short hikes to Surya Kund and Pandava Gufa (4–6 km, 3–4 hrs) - Easy walks along the Bhagirathi with views of snow-capped peaks - Evening aarti at the Gangotri temple - Trek leader’s briefing on route, safety and acclimatisation - Overnight: Gangotri guesthouse / homestay (3,065 m / 10,050 ft) ### Day 3: Gangotri to Bhojwasa via Chirbasa **Route Details:** **Altitude: 3,065 m → 3,775 m (12,385 ft) | Distance: 14 km | Duration: 5–6 hrs | Terrain: gradual riverside trail through pine forest, then rocky paths and meadow | Stay: Tents at Bhojwasa** Day 3 is the first trekking day, and at 14 km it is a long one. After an early breakfast you leave Gangotri and follow the Bhagirathi River upstream. The ascent is gentle at the start and the trail stays mostly gradual, but you gain about 735 m by afternoon. That is a significant jump, so walk at a steady pace and resist the urge to rush, even on the easy sections. In our experience, the trekkers who feel best at Bhojwasa tonight are the ones who walked the first half slower than they needed to. The early part of the day runs through coniferous pine forest, with snowy peaks showing between the tall trunks. Within a few hours you reach Chirbasa (3,580 m), whose name means the home of pines. It is a natural rest stop. Drink well here and eat something; the second half of the day is higher and more exposed. Beyond Chirbasa the forest falls away and the trail changes character. The path turns rockier and crosses open stretches of alpine meadow. There is no single hard section today; the challenge is the length of the walk and the height you gain. Now the big views arrive: Sudarshan, the Bhagirathi peaks (I, II and III) and the sharp outline of Mount Shivling ahead. The air becomes cooler and noticeably thinner as you approach Bhojwasa. By afternoon you reach Bhojwasa (also written Bhojbasa) at 3,775 m (12,385 ft), named after the bhoj (birch) trees that once flourished here. The campsite sits on the riverbank among wide, open meadows, with clear views of the high Himalaya. Once your tent is up, take a short acclimatisation walk around camp; it helps your body settle at the new height. Evening snacks and a hot dinner follow at camp. At sunset, golden light catches the snow peaks above the valley. From here on there is no mobile network. What to Expect: - First trekking day: 14 km, 5–6 hrs, ~735 m gain on a mostly gradual trail - Pine forest along the Bhagirathi to Chirbasa (3,580 m), the home of pines - Views of Sudarshan, Bhagirathi I, II and III, and Shivling beyond Chirbasa - Rocky paths and open meadow as the forest thins - Short acclimatisation walk and sunset over the peaks at camp - Overnight: Bhojwasa riverside camp (3,775 m / 12,385 ft) ### Day 4: Bhojwasa to Tapovan via Gaumukh **Route Details:** **Altitude: 3,775 m → 3,900 m (Gaumukh) → 4,463 m (14,640 ft) | Distance: 9 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs | Terrain: riverside trail, then steep glacial moraine, rocky patches and ridges | Stay: Tents at Tapovan** Day 4 is long and challenging, and we recommend starting by 6:00 AM. From Bhojwasa the trail follows the Bhagirathi River upstream for 2–3 hours to Gaumukh, at 3,900 m (12,795 ft). Gaumukh means cow’s mouth. It is the snout of the Gangotri Glacier and both the mythological and the geographical source of the Ganga. Standing in front of it is humbling: a wall of ice where blocks break away and crash into the river below. Take time here for prayers or simply to watch. Then the real work of the day begins. The climb from Gaumukh to Tapovan is steep, crossing glacial moraine, rocky patches and steep ridges. The moraine is loose and uneven, so place your feet deliberately, use your poles and follow the guide’s line rather than picking your own. Short steps and frequent pauses are normal on this climb, and nobody should feel rushed. Carry enough water and snacks for the full day, and keep your sun protection on; the light off rock and ice is harsh at this height. The reward comes all at once. Tapovan, at 4,463 m (14,640 ft), is a vast alpine meadow with streams and wildflowers, set directly beneath Mount Shivling (6,543 m / 21,467 ft). Often called the Matterhorn of the Himalayas, Shivling rises like a needle into the sky above camp. Around you stand the Bhagirathi peaks (I, II and III), Meru and Sudarshan Parbat, closer than you have seen them so far. Tapovan is a place of both pilgrimage and climbing, a hub for sadhus and mountaineers alike. In the evening the sky turns gold and the last light lingers on Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks. This is your highest camp so far, so eat well at dinner, keep sipping water through the evening and get into your sleeping bag early. What to Expect: - Early start by 6:00 AM; 9 km, 6–7 hrs, ~675 m gain - Gaumukh (3,900 m), snout of the Gangotri Glacier and source of the Ganga - Steep climb over glacial moraine, rocky patches and ridges to Tapovan - Close views of Shivling (6,543 m), Bhagirathi I–III, Meru and Sudarshan Parbat - Carry water, snacks and sun protection for the whole day - Overnight: Tapovan meadow camp (4,463 m / 14,640 ft) ### Day 5: Tapovan to Nandanvan across the Gangotri Glacier **Route Details:** **Altitude: 4,463 m → 4,340 m (14,240 ft) | Distance: 7 km | Duration: 5–6 hrs | Terrain: steep descent onto the Gangotri Glacier, moraine, crevasses and boulders, then a gradual climb to meadow | Stay: Tents at Nandanvan** Day 5 takes you across the Gangotri Glacier, one of the most adventurous sections of the trek. On paper it looks easy, 7 km with a net drop of about 120 m. In practice the ground decides your pace, and you should expect 5–6 hours of careful walking. Wear sturdy trekking shoes and gaiters today. The small drop in altitude is useful too: it gives your body a slightly easier night before the highest day of the trek. After breakfast at Tapovan, the trail drops steeply onto the glacier. The descent needs careful footing on rock and icy patches. Once you are on the ice, the surface is an uneven mix of moraine, crevasses and boulders. Stay close behind the guide, step where they step, and test loose rocks before you trust them. This is not ground to hurry on; a steady, unbroken pace is safer than bursts of speed followed by long stops. If any section makes you uneasy, tell the guide; it is always better to slow the group down than to take a chance on the ice. The setting is the reason this crossing stays with people. You walk with Himalayan giants on every side: Mount Shivling (6,543 m), the elegant Meru, the imposing Bhagirathi peaks and Kedar Dome. Many trekkers find this the most exciting stretch of the whole route, because it combines real high-altitude terrain with close-up views of the peaks at the same time. After the glacier, the trail climbs gradually to Nandanvan, at 4,340 m (14,240 ft), an open meadow at the foot of the Bhagirathi massif. The soft grassland feels very different from the icy, rugged world you crossed to reach it. Rest your legs, and as evening sets in, watch Shivling glow gold in the last of the sun. Nandanvan is your base for the next two nights, and tomorrow is the climb to Vasuki Tal. What to Expect: - Steep descent from Tapovan onto the Gangotri Glacier - Glacier crossing over moraine, crevasses and boulders – gaiters and sturdy shoes needed - 7 km, 5–6 hrs, ~120 m net descent - Close views of Shivling, Meru, the Bhagirathi peaks and Kedar Dome - Gradual climb to the open grassland of Nandanvan at the foot of the Bhagirathi massif - Overnight: Nandanvan meadow camp (4,340 m / 14,240 ft) ### Day 6: Nandanvan to Vasuki Tal and back to Nandanvan **Route Details:** **Altitude: 4,340 m → 4,880 m (16,010 ft) → 4,340 m | Distance: 12 km (round trip) | Duration: 7–8 hrs | Terrain: rocky moraine and rugged glacial ground | Stay: Tents at Nandanvan** Day 6 is the day the trek is named for. You climb about 540 m from Nandanvan to Vasuki Tal, the highest point of the trek at 4,880 m (16,010 ft), and then walk back down to the same camp. Start early, straight after breakfast. Water sources on the trail to the lake are limited, so fill every bottle at Nandanvan before you set off. We recommend packing your day bag the night before, with warm layers, sun protection, snacks and water, so you can leave without a rush. The climb is gradual but steady, across rocky moraine and rugged glacial terrain. The gradient itself is not severe; the altitude is what makes it hard. Above 4,500 m your breathing sets the pace, and that is fine. Take short, regular breaks rather than long ones, and keep eating small amounts even if you do not feel hungry. The ascent takes 3–4 hours. As you climb, the skyline fills with the giants of the region. Mount Shivling (6,543 m), Bhagirathi I to III and Meru stand around you, while Vasuki Parbat (6,792 m) towers close above the trail. Then the lake appears: Vasuki Tal, a glacial lake set among stark mountain cliffs, its water clear and turquoise, ringed by rugged ridges and steep banks dotted with alpine vegetation. On a calm day the snow-clad summits reflect on its surface. The lake is held sacred, and it is worth sitting quietly by the shore for a while before you turn back. The return follows the same route to Nandanvan, and walking down gives you a fresh view of the glacier and the meadows you crossed yesterday. Take the descent slowly over the moraine; tired legs make loose rock harder to judge. Back at camp, rest, rehydrate and enjoy having reached the high point of the trek. What to Expect: - Early start; 12 km round trip, 7–8 hrs, ~540 m up and down - Steady climb over rocky moraine and glacial terrain (3–4 hrs to the lake) - Vasuki Parbat (6,792 m) close above the trail, with Shivling, the Bhagirathi peaks and Meru around you - Vasuki Tal (4,880 m / 16,010 ft), the highest point of the trek - Limited water on the trail – fill all bottles at camp - Overnight: Nandanvan meadow camp (4,340 m / 14,240 ft) ### Day 7: Nandanvan to Bhojwasa **Route Details:** **Altitude: 4,340 m → 3,775 m (12,385 ft) | Distance: 15 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs | Terrain: glacial moraine along the Gangotri Glacier, then birch and pine trail | Stay: Tents at Bhojwasa** Day 7 is a long descent, 15 km over 6–7 hours, losing about 575 m. You leave the glacial meadow of Nandanvan with Mount Shivling and the Bhagirathi peaks standing tall behind you. Turn around often on the first stretch; these are your last close views of them on this trek. The day is mostly downhill, so the effort shifts from your lungs to your knees and thighs. Keep your poles adjusted a little longer for the descent and drink regularly, even though you will not feel as thirsty as on the climbs. The first section is the trickiest. You navigate glacial moraine and rocky stretches along the edge of the Gangotri Glacier, and the footing needs balance and attention. Use your trekking poles for stability, keep your weight over your feet and take the loose sections one step at a time. It is easy to lose focus on a descent after the high point is behind you, and this is exactly the stretch where you need it most. Once the moraine is behind you, the walking becomes noticeably easier. The trail then eases onto more familiar paths lined with birch and pine, leading back towards the valley floor. Keep an eye on the slopes as you go. This is Bharal country, and herds of blue sheep are often seen moving along the ridgelines. With every hour the landscape shifts from rugged alpine ground back to green valley. You reach Bhojwasa, at 3,775 m (12,385 ft), by afternoon. The Bhagirathi River flows gently past camp, and after the rugged days higher up the place feels calm and soft. Enjoy a hot meal, rest your legs and look back on the days at Gaumukh, Tapovan, Nandanvan and Vasuki Tal. It is a good night to sleep well; one more day on foot takes you back to Gangotri. What to Expect: - Long descent: 15 km, 6–7 hrs, ~575 m loss - Careful start over glacial moraine along the edge of the Gangotri Glacier; poles recommended - Last close views of Shivling, the Bhagirathi peaks and Meru - Chance to spot Bharal (blue sheep) on the ridgelines - Easier birch and pine trail down to the valley floor - Overnight: Bhojwasa riverside camp (3,775 m / 12,385 ft) ### Day 8: Bhojwasa to Gangotri **Route Details:** **Altitude: 3,775 m → 3,065 m (10,050 ft) | Distance: 14 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs | Terrain: riverside descent through pine, birch and deodar forest | Stay: Guesthouse / homestay in Gangotri** Day 8 is your last morning in the high-altitude silence of the Gangotri National Park. After breakfast you begin the 14 km descent to Gangotri, dropping about 710 m over 6–7 hours. The route retraces the trail you climbed on Day 3, but going down you notice details you missed on the way up: the forests, the flowing streams and the mountain views now laid out in front of you. We recommend an early start so you reach Gangotri by afternoon, with time for darshan and a relaxed evening. The trail first follows the river, with several good spots to pause. After around 2 hours you pass Chirbasa again, among its dense pine and birch trees. From here the walk becomes gentler, winding through the valley past grazing meadows and cascading waterfalls. A full day of downhill is tiring on the knees, so keep your stride short and lean on your poles where the path steepens. The trail is familiar now, which makes it easier to relax into the walk and enjoy the forest. At Devdarshini Point, the first views of Gangotri town and its surrounding forests appear, a welcome sight after days in the wilderness. Take a last look back at the Bhagirathi massif before the trail drops away. From here it is downhill all the way to the Gangotri temple, where the trek ends. Keep your focus on this final stretch; the last hour of a long descent is when tired legs are most likely to slip. Spend the evening as you like. Walk through the local market, return to the temple for darshan, or simply enjoy a hot meal and the comfort of a guesthouse bed after five nights under canvas. Gangotri also has a mobile signal again, so this is the moment to call home and let your family know you are down safely. What to Expect: - 14 km, 6–7 hrs, ~710 m descent along the Bhagirathi - Pine, birch and deodar forest; pass Chirbasa after about 2 hours - First view of Gangotri town from Devdarshini Point - Final views of the Bhagirathi massif - Evening darshan at the Gangotri temple - Overnight: Gangotri guesthouse / homestay (3,065 m / 10,050 ft) ### Day 9: Drive from Gangotri to Dehradun **Route Details:** **Drive: Gangotri → Dehradun (~241 km, 10–11 hrs) | Altitude: 3,065 m → 655 m (2,150 ft) | End: Dehradun by evening** The final day is the drive back to Dehradun. Leave Gangotri early, around 6:30 AM after breakfast, so you reach the city by evening without delays. The road follows the Bhagirathi downstream through villages, forests and valleys, past Dharali and Harshil with their apple orchards. Lower down you pass Uttarkashi, a hub for mountaineering and river rafting, and then Mussoorie, a popular hill station, before the road descends into the Doon Valley. The Garhwal Himalaya slip away behind you over the course of the day, and the air grows warmer as you drop about 2,410 m in a single day. Food on the road is not included, so plan your meal stops along the way. You reach Dehradun by evening, and the Vasuki Tal Trek ends here. When you plan onward travel, we advise keeping at least one buffer day in hand, since weather or glacier conditions can hold a group up on the trail. What to Expect: - Early 6:30 AM departure from Gangotri - Drive past Dharali, Harshil, Uttarkashi and Mussoorie into the Doon Valley - ~241 km, 10–11 hrs; meals in transit are on your own - Last views of the Garhwal Himalaya - Trek ends at Dehradun (655 m / 2,150 ft) by evening ## Inclusions 1. Free Trekking Gear (FTG) – A Budget-Saving Game Changer! Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear (FTG) initiative lets you save 100% on gear purchases and rentals — ideal for budget-conscious trekkers!Get access to premium-quality gear, including: - Quechua Trek 100 Shoes (worth ₹6,999) - Quechua SH100 Jacket (-10°C) (worth ₹3,299) - Trekking pole and more – no rental fee (₹3,000 refundable deposit + ₹200 washing charge)! 2. Comfortable Accommodation - Day 1 to Day 7: Full-service camping with large mess tents, tables, and 3-person tents during the trek. - Gangotri Stay: Guesthouse or homestay on a triple/quad sharing basis. 3. Nutritious Meals - All meals are included from Day 1 dinner to Day 7 dinner - Freshly prepared, simple vegetarian food - Tea, coffee, soups, and snacks are served regularly during the trek 4. Camping & Permit Charges - All necessary trekking permits and forest camping fees included 5. Certified Trek Leaders & Guides - Experienced trek leaders supported by local certified mountain guides - Ensuring both safety and local expertise 6. Premium Trekking Equipment Provided - All technical equipment required during the trek is included: - High-quality tents, sleeping bags - Ice axes, micro spikes, gaiters, ropes, and more 7. Safety First – Emergency Support at Every Camp - First-aid kit, medical support, and oxygen cylinders - Stretchers are available at each campsite for emergency evacuation ## Exclusions 1. Food During Transit - Meals during travel to and from the base camp (Gangotri) are not included. You’ll need to arrange your food while in transit. 2. Transport – Basecamp Transfers - Shared taxis from Dehradun to Gangotri and back are omitted. They can be arranged at an additional cost of ₹8,000 per vehicle (one-way, 6-seater), payable directly to the driver. - We help arrange shared cabs for the group; the fare is paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers 3. Backpack Offloading Charges If you choose not to carry your backpack: - ₹4,300 + 5% GST for the full trek - Max weight: 9 kg - No suitcases, trolleys, or duffel bags allowed - Charges may be higher for last-minute offloading requests made at Gangotri 4. Single Tent Occupancy Do you prefer your tent or travelling as a couple? - ₹2,000 + 5% GST per tent for the entire trek - Ideal for solo trekkers seeking privacy or couples sharing a tent - Spacious enough for 1 or 2 people to stay comfortably 5. Anything Not Mentioned Under Inclusions - If it’s not specifically listed under the “What’s Included” section, it’s not part of the package. Please plan accordingly and ask in advance if you have any questions or concerns. - **Travel insurance:** mandatory and not included. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. ## How to reach **By Air:- ** Jolly Grant airport is located 25 kilometers from the city, serving to Dehradun. Daily flight from Delhi to Dehradun. **By Train:-** Take the train from Delhi to Dehradun overnight • Nanda Devi Express(12205):- Departure:- 23:50; Arrival:- 05:40 • Dehradun Express(12687):- Departure:- 21:10; Arrival:- 05:00 **By Bus:-** Regular bus service is available from Delhi (ISBT Kashmere Gate) to Dehradun. We suggest that you take only government buses from the ISBT Kashmere Gate. Private buses run from outside ISBT Kashmere Gate and they are not trustable. Usually, the buses left you in the Dehradun ISBT. From there you have to come to Dehradun railway station via Ola/Uber Cab/Auto Rickshaw/Shared Three Wheeler. There are few buses run by the Uttrakhand Government on a daily basis from Dehradun Railway Station to Gangotri. The timing of the bus: 05:30 AM. You would reach the Gangotri by 06:00 PM. ## ATM and mobile network Important Pre-Trek Information • Last ATM – Bhatwari Bhatwari is the last reliable ATM stop before reaching Gangotri (Basecamp). Make sure to withdraw sufficient cash here, as you may not find functional ATMs beyond this point. • Mobile Network – Gangotri Gangotri is the last location with a stable mobile signal, and even here, only BSNL, Jio & Airtel work consistently. Please complete all important calls and inform your family about limited connectivity during the trek. Once you leave Gangotri, mobile signals are generally unavailable. ## Frequently asked questions ### Where is the Vasuki Tal trek? The Vasuki Tal trek is in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal Himalayas. It starts from Gangotri (3,065 m / 10,050 ft), about 241 km (10–11 hours) by road from Dehradun. From Gangotri the trail follows the Bhagirathi past Chirbasa and Bhojwasa to Gaumukh and Tapovan, crosses the Gangotri Glacier to Nandanvan and climbs to the glacial lake of Vasuki Tal at 4,880 m (16,010 ft). ### How many days is the Vasuki Tal trek? The Vasuki Tal trek takes 9 days from Dehradun to Dehradun, with 6 trekking days covering about 71 km. - **Day 1 and Day 9:** drive between Dehradun and Gangotri (241 km, 10–11 hours) - **Day 2:** acclimatisation day at Gangotri, with optional short hikes - **Days 3–8:** trekking, 7–15 km a day - **Longest day:** Day 7, Nandanvan to Bhojwasa, 15 km in 6–7 hours ### What is the altitude of the Vasuki Tal trek? The highest point of the Vasuki Tal trek is the lake itself at 4,880 m (16,010 ft). From Gangotri (3,065 m) you climb about 1,800 m and spend three nights above 4,300 m. - **Bhojwasa camp:** 3,775 m (12,385 ft) - **Gaumukh:** 3,900 m (12,800 ft) - **Tapovan camp:** 4,463 m (14,640 ft) - **Nandanvan camp:** 4,340 m (14,240 ft) ### How difficult is the Vasuki Tal trek? The Vasuki Tal trek is graded Difficult, with long walking hours, steep ascents, moraine and glacier crossings and high-altitude camping. It is best suited to trekkers with prior Himalayan experience and good fitness. - **Day 4:** steep climb over glacial moraine from Gaumukh to Tapovan - **Day 5:** crossing the Gangotri Glacier over moraine, crevasses and boulders - **Day 6:** 12 km round trip to the lake in 7–8 hours over rocky moraine ### Is the Vasuki Tal trek good for beginners? No, the Vasuki Tal trek is not suitable for beginners. It is a 9-day Difficult trek over moraine and glacier ground to 4,880 m, best suited to trekkers with prior Himalayan experience. If you are new to trekking, gain experience on an easier high-altitude trek first. ### What fitness level do I need for the Vasuki Tal trek? The Vasuki Tal trek needs a high level of fitness: you walk 5–8 hours a day for six days on rocky trail, glacial moraine and glacier. - **Daily distance:** 7–15 km, with the longest day at 15 km - **Summit day:** about 540 m up and down over 12 km - **Train before the trek:** regular cardio and uphill walks with a loaded backpack ### What is the best time for the Vasuki Tal trek? The best time for the Vasuki Tal trek is May–June and September–October. From November onwards heavy snowfall makes the region inaccessible. - **May–June:** snow patches near Gaumukh and Vasuki Tal, especially in May - **September–October:** clear views after the monsoon, with much colder nights ### Is there snow on the Vasuki Tal trek? Yes, May brings snow patches near Gaumukh and Vasuki Tal on the Vasuki Tal trek, and gaiters and microspikes are provided free when the trail needs them. - **Winter:** from November heavy snowfall makes the region inaccessible - **Glare:** sun reflecting off the glacier and snow is harsh, so wear UV sunglasses - **Gloves:** carry a waterproof pair for snow ### How cold is the Vasuki Tal trek? Nights on the Vasuki Tal trek are -3°C to 3°C in May–June and fall to -15°C to -5°C in September–October. Days are 5–12°C in May–June and 2–7°C in September–October. - **Layers:** pack 4 warm layers in both seasons, as Tapovan and Nandanvan are high, cold camps - **Jacket:** a -10°C padded jacket comes free with Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear - **Wind:** a balaclava or buff for the cold wind at Tapovan and Vasuki Tal ### Which mountains can you see on the Vasuki Tal trek? On the Vasuki Tal trek Vasuki Parbat (6,792 m) rises close above the trail to the lake, with Shivling (6,543 m), the Bhagirathi peaks, Meru and Satopanth in view. - **Beyond Chirbasa:** Sudarshan, Bhagirathi I, II and III, and Shivling - **Tapovan:** close views of Shivling, Meru and Sudarshan Parbat - **Nandanvan:** Kedar Dome and the Bhagirathi massif - **Wildlife:** a chance to spot bharal (blue sheep) on the ridgelines ### What is the terrain like on the Vasuki Tal trek? The Vasuki Tal trek starts on a gradual riverside trail through pine forest and turns into rocky glacial moraine above Gaumukh, including a crossing of the Gangotri Glacier. - **Gangotri to Bhojwasa:** gradual trail through pine forest, then rocky paths and meadow - **Gaumukh to Tapovan:** steep glacial moraine, rocky patches and ridges - **Tapovan to Nandanvan:** moraine, crevasses and boulders on the glacier - **Nandanvan to Vasuki Tal:** rocky moraine and rugged glacial ground ### Is there a risk of altitude sickness on the Vasuki Tal trek? Yes, the Vasuki Tal trek crosses 4,500 m, so acclimatisation is crucial; the itinerary includes a rest day at Gangotri (Day 2) to reduce the risk of AMS. - **Step by step:** Bhojwasa (3,775 m) on Day 3 before Tapovan (4,463 m) on Day 4 - **High camps:** one night at Tapovan and two at Nandanvan (4,340 m) - **At every camp:** first-aid kit, medical support, oxygen cylinders and a stretcher - **Buffer day:** keep one spare day in case acclimatisation or weather needs it ### Can trekkers above 60 do the Vasuki Tal trek? Trekkers above 60 can consider the Vasuki Tal trek only if they have very good fitness and prior Himalayan experience, as it is a 9-day Difficult trek over glacier ground to 4,880 m. - **Medical certificate:** carry one signed by a registered doctor - **Doctor’s advice:** consult your doctor before the trek - **Acclimatisation:** the rest day at Gangotri helps your body adjust ### How do I reach the Vasuki Tal trek base camp? The Vasuki Tal trek starts from Gangotri, about 241 km (10–11 hours) by road from Dehradun. Reach Dehradun the day before, as the cab leaves around 6:30 AM. - **By air:** Jolly Grant Airport (DED), about 25 km and 45–60 minutes from Dehradun city - **By train:** Dehradun (DDN), with the overnight Nanda Devi Express and day trains such as the Shatabdi, Jan Shatabdi and Vande Bharat - **By bus:** government buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate to Dehradun ISBT (6–7 hours) - **Return:** the cab leaves Gangotri at 6:30 AM and reaches Dehradun Railway Station by about 7:00 PM; keep one buffer day free ### Is transport included in the Vasuki Tal trek fee? No, transport is not included in the Vasuki Tal trek fee. A shared cab between Dehradun and Gangotri can be arranged at an additional cost of about ₹8,000 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle. - **Payment:** paid directly to the driver and split among the trekkers - **Route:** via Mussoorie, Uttarkashi, Bhatwari, Harshil and Dharali - **Meals in transit:** not included on the drive days ### Where do we stay on the Vasuki Tal trek? On the Vasuki Tal trek you stay 3 nights in a guesthouse or homestay at Gangotri and 5 nights in tents at Bhojwasa, Tapovan and Nandanvan. - **Gangotri (Days 1, 2 and 8):** guesthouse or homestay, triple or quad sharing - **Bhojwasa (Days 3 and 7):** riverside camp - **Tapovan (Day 4) and Nandanvan (Days 5–6):** high meadow camps - **Tents:** 3-person tents with mess tents; a single tent costs ₹2,000 + 5% GST for the whole trek ### Who leads the Vasuki Tal trek? The Vasuki Tal trek is led by experienced trek leaders supported by local certified mountain guides, combining safety with local expertise. All technical equipment for the trek is included, from tents and sleeping bags to ice axes, microspikes, gaiters and ropes. ### Is the Vasuki Tal trek safe for women trekking alone? Yes, women can join the Vasuki Tal trek on their own: you trek in a group led by experienced trek leaders and local certified mountain guides. - **Tents:** shared 3-person tents, or a single tent for ₹2,000 + 5% GST for the whole trek - **Stay at Gangotri:** guesthouse or homestay on a triple or quad sharing basis - **Connectivity:** tell your family before you leave Gangotri, as you are off-grid after Bhojwasa ### What food is served on the Vasuki Tal trek? Meals on the Vasuki Tal trek are included from Day 1 dinner to Day 7 dinner: freshly prepared, simple vegetarian food with breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, soup and dinner. - **Hot drinks:** tea, coffee and soups are served regularly to keep you warm at altitude - **On the trail:** packed lunches, so carry a reusable lunch box - **Not included:** meals during the drive between Dehradun and Gangotri ### Is drinking water available on the Vasuki Tal trek? Water is limited on the high sections of the Vasuki Tal trek, so carry two 1 L bottles and fill them at camp before you set out. - **Day 4:** carry water, snacks and sun protection for the whole day to Tapovan - **Day 6:** limited water on the way to the lake, so fill all bottles at Nandanvan - **Bottles:** make one insulated for the high camps ### Is Free Trekking Gear included on the Vasuki Tal trek? Yes, the Vasuki Tal trek includes Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear: trekking shoes, a -10°C padded jacket and trekking poles, plus gaiters and microspikes when the trail needs them, at no rental fee. - **Deposit:** one refundable deposit of ₹3,000 + ₹200 washing charge covers the whole kit - **Value:** shoes worth ₹6,999 and a jacket worth ₹3,299 - **Snow gear:** gaiters and microspikes for snow patches near Gaumukh and Vasuki Tal, especially in May ### Is backpack offloading available on the Vasuki Tal trek? Yes, backpack offloading on the Vasuki Tal trek costs ₹4,300 + 5% GST for the full trek, for a bag of up to 9 kg. - **Not allowed:** suitcases, trolleys or duffel bags - **Late requests:** charges may be higher if you ask for offloading at Gangotri - **Day pack:** a 20–30 L day pack is needed if you offload ### Is there a doctor on the Vasuki Tal trek? No, a doctor is not part of the Vasuki Tal trek package. Safety is handled by experienced trek leaders and local certified mountain guides, with emergency support at every camp. - **At every camp:** first-aid kit, medical support and oxygen cylinders - **Evacuation:** stretchers at each campsite; your travel insurance must cover emergency evacuation - **Your part:** carry a personal medical kit and consult your doctor before the trek ### What documents do I need for the Vasuki Tal trek? For the Vasuki Tal trek you need a government photo ID, a medical certificate signed by a registered doctor and a copy of your travel insurance policy. - **Photo ID:** original and a photocopy (passport, Aadhaar, driving licence or voter ID) - **Medical certificate:** signed by a registered doctor - **Travel insurance:** mandatory and not included; it must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation ### Do I need a permit for the Vasuki Tal trek? Yes, but all necessary trekking permits and forest camping fees are included in the Vasuki Tal trek fee, so you do not need to arrange them. Just carry your original government photo ID and a photocopy on the trek. ### Is there mobile network and an ATM on the Vasuki Tal trek? No, there is no ATM or reliable mobile network on the Vasuki Tal trail. Gangotri is the last place with a stable signal (BSNL, Jio and Airtel), and Bhatwari has the last reliable ATM. - **Network:** very limited after Gangotri, and you are completely off-grid after Bhojwasa - **Power bank:** charge it fully before you leave Gangotri - **Cash:** enough for your share of the cab, offloading if needed and a possible buffer day ### Does the Vasuki Tal trek go through Gaumukh and Tapovan? Yes, the Vasuki Tal trek passes Gaumukh (3,900 m), the snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the source of the Ganga, on Day 4 and camps at Tapovan (4,463 m) that night. - **Tapovan:** a meadow camp with close views of Shivling (6,543 m) - **Gangotri Glacier:** crossed on Day 5 over moraine, crevasses and boulders - **Nandanvan:** open grassland at the foot of the Bhagirathi massif ### Do I need a buffer day for the Vasuki Tal trek? Yes, keep at least 1 buffer day for the Vasuki Tal trek in case weather, glacier conditions or acclimatisation cause a delay. If it is used, it costs ₹3,000 per person per day. If the buffer day is not needed, you can return earlier, so plan your onward travel with this spare day in mind. ### What is the minimum age for the Vasuki Tal trek? The minimum age for the Vasuki Tal trek is 16 years, because it is a 9-day Difficult trek over glacier ground to 4,880 m. Trekkers under 18 must come with a parent or guardian. Prior Himalayan experience is recommended. There is no upper age limit; trekkers above 60 can join if their fitness and health allow it, after consulting a doctor. --- Book or ask questions: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/vasuki-tal-trek · WhatsApp +91 80576 54321