About the trek
Imagine walking into a hidden paradise where lush meadows stretch endlessly, and the air is filled with the scent of wildflowers. Welcome to the Har Ki Dun Trek, a journey that feels like stepping into a painting. This trek is not just a walk; it's an immersion into nature's tranquility. As you traverse through the dense forests of oak and rhododendron, you'll be greeted by panoramic views of the Himalayas. The trek's ease of access makes it a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned trekkers seeking a serene escape. You'll encounter ancient villages, each with its own story, and the scenic beauty will leave you in awe. Physically, it's a gentle challenge, but emotionally, it's a rejuvenating experience that connects you with the simplicity and beauty of nature.
Key Facts
Why Trekkers Love It
- 01The trek offers unparalleled views of the Gangotri and Bandarpunch ranges.
- 02It passes through the vibrant Har Ki Dun valley, known for its diverse flora and fauna.
- 03Experience the warmth of local Garhwali culture in the remote villages along the route.
- 04The trek is a gateway to the lesser-known, untouched beauty of the Himalayas.
More Photos
Photo Gallery
5 photosDay by Day
The Route
Route & Itinerary
Sankri
🚩 Starting Point
Base camp and registration
Taluka
Waypoint 1
Last motorable road
Osla
Waypoint 2
Ancient temple village
Har Ki Dun
Waypoint 3
"Valley of Gods" campsite
Jaundhar Glacier View
🏁 End Point
Optional day-hike destination
Altitude
Elevation Profile
Sankri
1,920m
Taluka
2,020m
Osla
2,560m
Har Ki Dun
3,566m
Jaundhar Glacier View
3,800m
Start
1,920m
Peak
3,800m
Total Gain
+1,880m
When to Go
Monthly Climate Guide
Best months to trek: Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct. Avoid Jul, Aug — heavy rainfall makes trails risky.
Apr
BESTPleasant
8–20°C
May
BESTBest Season
12–25°C
Jun
NOWMonsoon Onset
12–22°C
Sep
BESTPost-Monsoon
10–20°C
Oct
BESTBest Season
5–18°C
Getting There
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, 210 km
Nearest Railway
Dehradun Railway Station, 210 km
Flight to Dehradun (₹3,000–₹6,000) + 5-hour road journey (₹1,000–₹2,000)
Train to Dehradun (₹300–₹1,000) + 5-hour road journey (₹1,000–₹2,000)
Direct bus/car to Uttarkashi (₹500–₹1,500), 8-hour journey
Flight to Dehradun (₹8,000–₹15,000) + 5-hour road journey
Train to Dehradun (₹1,000–₹2,500) + 5-hour road journey
18-hour road journey
Flight to Dehradun (₹10,000–₹20,000) + 5-hour road journey
Train to Dehradun (₹1,500–₹3,500) + 5-hour road journey
24-hour road journey
Last Mile to Base Camp
Shared jeep or local bus from Uttarkashi to Harsil (7 km), 1-hour journey
Pro tip: Check road conditions before traveling, especially during monsoon.
Costs
Budget Breakdown
Trek costs ₹8,000–₹25,000 depending on your style and whether you hire a guide
Mid-Range Trek
Guide + porter, comfortable guesthouses
per day
₹2,500 – ₹3,500 per day
Prices are estimates for 2025–26. Costs vary by season and group size.
Preparation
Pack & Stay Safe
What to Pack
clothing
- Fleece jacket
- Light windcheater
- Thermal inner
- Trekking pants
- Warm cap & light gloves
footwear
- Trekking shoes with grip
- Woolen socks × 3 pairs
- Camp sandals
equipment
- 40–50L backpack
- Sleeping bag −5°C
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Headlamp
- Water bottles 1.5–2 L
essentials
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Sunglasses
- Basic first-aid kit
- Energy bars
- Personal medicines
Safety Tips
- 1Easy trek for families
Permit & Entry Info
National Park entry permit required (₹150 Indians / ₹600 foreigners per day). Register at Forest Department checkpost. Some treks require advance online booking.
Emergency Contacts
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The Har Ki Dun Trek is classified as easy. It involves a gradual ascent with a maximum altitude of 3566m. Daily distances range from 6 to 9 km, making it suitable for trekkers with basic fitness levels.
The best months to undertake the Har Ki Dun Trek are April, May, June, September, and October. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and vibrant meadows.
The cost of the Har Ki Dun Trek ranges from ₹8,000 to ₹25,000, depending on your style of travel, accommodation choices, and whether you hire a guide.
Yes, a permit is required for the Har Ki Dun Trek. It can be obtained from the Forest Department in Uttarkashi. The cost is approximately ₹300 per person.
Yes, the Har Ki Dun Trek is suitable for beginners due to its easy difficulty level and scenic, gradual trails.
The maximum altitude of the Har Ki Dun Trek is 3566m. While altitude sickness is rare, it's advisable to acclimatize properly and stay hydrated.
Essential items include comfortable trekking shoes, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, a sleeping bag rated for 0°C, a hydration pack, and a first aid kit.
The nearest city is Uttarkashi. From there, you can take a shared jeep or local bus to reach the base camp at Harsil, which is about 7 km away.
The total distance of the Har Ki Dun Trek is 47 km, with daily distances ranging from 6 to 9 km.
While it's possible to do the trek without a guide, hiring one is recommended for a safer and more enriching experience, especially for first-time trekkers.
During the best trekking months (April to June, September to October), daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, while night temperatures can drop to 5°C.
Mobile network is limited and unreliable at the base camp. There are no ATMs nearby, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash.
Have more questions? Use the AI planner above for personalised answers.
Similar Treks You Might Like
More adventures with similar difficulty and terrain
Planning Har Ki Dun Trek?