Gomukh Tapovan Trek – Journey to the Source of the Ganga
When it comes to iconic Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand, few trails hold as much spiritual, cultural, and natural significance as the Gomukh Tapovan Trek. Known as the source of the sacred River Ganga, Gomukh (literally “cow’s mouth”) is a glacier snout at the base of Gangotri Glacier. For centuries, sages, yogis, and adventurers have made the pilgrimage here, seeking both spiritual enlightenment and the awe of standing before the mighty peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Situated in the Gangotri National Park, the trek offers a rare combination of sacred mythology, pristine alpine landscapes, and grand Himalayan views. The trail begins from Gangotri (3,048 m / 10,000 ft), one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites, and gradually ascends through deodar forests, rugged moraines, high-altitude meadows, and glaciers, finally reaching the magnificent Tapovan meadow at 4,463 m (14,640 ft).
At Tapovan, trekkers are rewarded with some of the most spectacular views of Mt. Shivling (6,543 m), Mt. Meru, and the Bhagirathi peaks. Known as one of the world’s most beautiful alpine meadows, Tapovan is also a place of meditation for ascetics who live amidst nature’s raw grandeur.
If Kedarnath is about faith, and Valley of Flowers is about beauty, then Gomukh Tapovan is about a spiritual adventure — walking in the footsteps of sages while embracing the sheer power of the Himalayas.
Highlights of the Gomukh Tapovan Trek
- Gomukh Glacier (3,890 m / 12,760 ft): Source of the sacred Ganga, with ice walls and thundering glacial melt.
- Tapovan Meadow (4,463 m / 14,640 ft): Expansive alpine grassland offering close-up views of Mt. Shivling, Mt. Meru, and the Bhagirathi peaks.
- Gangotri Temple: Start your journey from this centuries-old shrine dedicated to Goddess Ganga.
- Diverse Landscapes: From pine and deodar forests to rocky moraines, glacier crossings, and lush meadows.
- Wildlife Encounters: Chance to spot blue sheep (bharal), Himalayan ibex, and high-altitude birds.
- Spiritual Energy: Meditate at Tapovan alongside sadhus and yogis who live in caves and ashrams here.
- Starry Night Camping: Crystal-clear night skies with a view of countless stars, far from any light pollution.
- Best Season: May–June (spring blooms & pleasant weather) and September–October (crystal-clear views after the monsoon).
Gomukh Tapovan Trek Itinerary (7 Nights / 8 Days)
Day 1: Arrival at Rishikesh – Drive to Uttarkashi (170 km, 6–7 hrs)
- Altitude: 3,352 ft / 1,021 m
Your adventure begins in Rishikesh, the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. After a morning briefing, drive along the Bhagirathi River valley, passing through Chamba and Tehri (with views of the massive Tehri Dam reservoir). By late afternoon, you arrive in Uttarkashi, a bustling town famous for the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering.
Check into your guesthouse, explore the Vishwanath Temple, and enjoy dinner. Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.
Day 2: Drive from Uttarkashi to Gangotri (100 km, 4–5 hrs)
- Altitude: 10,000 ft / 3,048 m
The drive to Gangotri is scenic, following the Bhagirathi River through pine forests and steep cliffs. En route, stop at Gangnani hot springs for a dip.
By afternoon, reach Gangotri, one of the holiest Char Dham sites, home to the revered Gangotri Temple, built in honor of Goddess Ganga. Spend the evening exploring the temple town and acclimatizing to the altitude. Overnight stay in a guesthouse/hotel.
Day 3: Trek from Gangotri to Chirbasa (9 km, 5 hrs)
- Altitude: 11,761 ft / 3,585 m
The trek begins! After breakfast, follow the trail along the Bhagirathi River, surrounded by towering deodar and pine trees. The trail is gradual but steady, with spectacular views of the Bhagirathi peaks.
“Chirbasa” means home of pine trees, and indeed, the campsite here is flanked by dense pine forests. Overnight stay in tents by the river.
Day 4: Trek from Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (5 km, 3–4 hrs)
- Altitude: 12,450 ft / 3,800 m
Today’s trek is shorter but takes you through rugged terrain. Leaving behind the pine forests, the trail enters a barren, high-altitude desert with moraines and scattered boulders. The valley opens up dramatically, offering clear views of Bhagirathi I, II, and III peaks.
Arrive at Bhojbasa, named after the birch (bhojpatra) trees that once grew abundantly here. Camps are set near the river, with mesmerizing views of snow-clad peaks. Evening meditation by the Ganga is unforgettable. Overnight in tents.
Day 5: Trek from Bhojbasa to Gomukh (4 km, 2–3 hrs) and onwards to Tapovan (5 km, 3–4 hrs)
- Altitude: 14,640 ft / 4,463 m
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Begin with a gradual walk to Gomukh, the snout of the Gangotri Glacier. Witness the thunderous meltwater rushing out — the very birth of the River Ganga.
From Gomukh, the trail becomes steep and strenuous, requiring careful navigation over rocky moraines and a steep climb to Tapovan. The effort is worth it: Tapovan is one of the most beautiful meadows in the Himalayas, with Mt. Shivling rising like a divine pyramid right in front of you.
Overnight stay in tents at Tapovan, under a sky full of stars.
Day 6: Rest & Exploration at Tapovan (Acclimatization Day)
Spend the day exploring Tapovan. The meadow is a paradise of alpine flowers, crystal-clear streams, and views of Mt. Shivling, Meru, and the Bhagirathi peaks. You may also meet sadhus meditating in caves here.
Short hikes to Meru Glacier or higher ridges offer even better panoramic views. This rest day helps acclimatize and allows you to soak in the spiritual energy of Tapovan. Overnight in tents.
Day 7: Trek back from Tapovan to Chirbasa (14 km, 6–7 hrs)
- Altitude: 11,761 ft / 3,585 m
Retrace your steps, descending first from Tapovan to Gomukh and then down to Bhojbasa. The descent is easier but still requires focus on rocky moraines. Continue further to reach Chirbasa, where you’ll camp for the night amidst pine forests.
Day 8: Trek from Chirbasa to Gangotri (9 km, 4–5 hrs) – Drive to Uttarkashi (100 km, 4–5 hrs)
After breakfast, trek back to Gangotri, marking the completion of your adventure. Visit the Gangotri temple one last time to offer prayers. From here, drive back to Uttarkashi for an overnight stay or onward journey to Rishikesh/Haridwar the next day.
Why Choose the Gomukh Tapovan Trek?
Unlike crowded trails, Gomukh Tapovan offers a blend of spirituality, adventure, and Himalayan grandeur. It is perfect for trekkers who seek both inner peace and adrenaline.
- Sacred significance: Walk the same path that saints and sages have taken for centuries.
- Close-up views of Himalayan giants: Mt. Shivling, Meru, and Bhagirathi peaks dominate the skyline.
- Alpine meadows & glaciers in one trek: A mix of forest walks, moraine crossings, and meadow camping.
- Moderate challenge: Demands fitness but manageable for trekkers with prior high-altitude experience.
- Memorable campsites: From pine forests to glacier snouts and high meadows, every campsite is unique.
Essential Trek Information
- Maximum Altitude: 4,463 m / 14,640 ft (Tapovan)
- Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult (requires prior trekking experience & good fitness)
- Best Season: May–June (spring & pleasant weather) and September–October (clear post-monsoon skies)
- Trek Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days (Rishikesh to Rishikesh)
- Total Trek Distance: ~46 km
- Nearest Railhead: Rishikesh / Haridwar (connected to Kathgodam & Delhi)
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
