7D/6N
Duration
Easy
Grade
5.5/10
Physicality
50 Km
Trail Length
3500 m/11500 ft
Highest Point

Har Ki Dun Trek (camping variant):

Below is your complete guide to the Har Ki Dun Trek 2024 in the Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand.

  • Fixed group departure tours to Har Ki Dun spring-summer on March 24th,  April 7th and 19th May 2024, starting from Dehradun (7 days).
  • Private or customised tours for your friends and family as per your preferred dates. The trek fee will remain the same as listed if you are a group of 10 to 12 trekkers.
  • We also have the Har Ki Dun homestay variant of this trekking trail for those who like to stay in the village homestays and eat like the locals.

About the trek:

Har Ki Dun Trek is probably the finest river valley trail in India and has never lost its charm to trekkers around the globe. There are many reasons for stating so, though the beauty of the valley in itself is the primary attraction. The change of colours in each season makes this route a year-round choice for nature lovers (except for those monsoon months).

green-valley-to-har-ki-dun-in-summer
How green is the valley
har-ki-dun-autumn-fall-colours-october
Splendid fall colours in autumn
har-ki-dun-valley-in-spring-with-snow
Snow is a major attraction in spring

Gentle hike through this wide fertile valley, remote villages enroute, culture and hospitality of the people you can’t miss. It is indeed a lovely walk to the Har Ki Dun valley with fascinating views of Jaundhar glacier and surrounding Swargarohini group of peaks. The  views of Swargarohini group, Bandarpunch range and Black peak (Kalanag) are pretty descent to mention modestly.

The walk culminates to a glacier carved spectacular valley, as if an amphitheatre ringed up by high spurs of rocky mountains. The sunrise and sunset at Har Ki Dun needs special mention. Early snow during November and ample amount of residual snow during spring makes this trek a compelling choice. Further exploration towards Marinda Tal/Jaundar glacier will surely ignite the adrenaline in your adventurous mind.

jungle-walk-on-har-ki-dun-trek
Lovely stretches of jungle on the way
osla-village-on-the-way-to-har-ki-dun
Osla village: Furthest village enroute
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Gangar village and mountain views
sunset-at-har-ki-dun
Har Ki Dun: Sunset time

Due to the above facts, this trail is a must to visit for experienced hikers. The easy trail with gentle gradient makes it comfortable to beginners. No wonder that coupled with these two factors it is one of the most popular trek in Indian Himalayas.

har-ki-dun-winter-trek
Har Ki Dun valley in the winter
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Valley starts turning into green in the beginning of summer

Brief Itinerary:

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri – 200 Km by car – 9/10 hours. Lodge
Day 2: Sankri to Taluka – 11 Km by car – 1 hour – Trek from Taluka to Chilurgad via Gangar – 10 Km – 5 hours. Camp
Day 3: Trek to Simatra via Osla/Seema – 11 Km – 6 hours. Camp
Day 4: Trek to Har Ki Dun, Exploration around Har Ki Dun and return to Simatra – 12 Km – 7/8 hours. Camp
Day 5: Trek down to Chilurgad via Osla village – 5/6 hours. Camp
Day 6: Trek to Taluka – 10 Km – 4 hours, by car Sankri – 1 hour. Lodge.
Day 7: Drive to Dehradun – 200 Km – 9/10 hours.

Important notes on the itinerary and the tour programme:

  • You need to reach on your own to Dehradun on Day 1 morning (latest by 7 am) or the previous night. Return to Dehradun on Day 7 evening (by 7 pm).  Arrange your tickets for inward journey and return from Dehradun accordingly. We will arrange transport to reach Sankri and return although cost is NOT included in the TREK FEE.
  • Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant, DED) is
  • Last ATM is at Mori, 25 Km before Sankri but don’t depend till you reach  here. Withdraw cash well in advance either in Dehradun,  Naugaon or Purola.
  • Only BSNL and Vodafone network  work at trek base Sankri, that too very limited connections. Make a phone call back to home from Mori while reaching Sankri. After Sankri there is no presence of network.

Altitude and distance profile graph for Har Ki Dun trek:

From the below graph you will get an idea of the gradient of the trail. Though the trail length is longer than the usual Easy grade treks but the elevation is gentle as we will be following the river valley.

infographic-distance-altitude-graph-for-har-ki-dun-trek
Har Ki Dun: Distance and corresponding altitude graph

Location:

Har Ki Dun valley is on the far western flank of Garhwal in Uttarkashi district (Purola subdivision), Uttarakhand.  The trek route lies entirely within the buffer and core region of Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. This catchment area is a major source of Yamuna through its largest tributary Tons river.  To note, Har Ki Dun and Ruinsara Nallah form meandering Tamosa river, near Osla village. Tamosa flowing beside Taluka and below the village Sankri unites with Supin near Jakhol. Supin and Rupin combined at Netwar forms the Tons river.

Camping ban at Har Ki Dun

As per Uttarakhand High Court order ( Petition No. : 123/2014 ) , one can not camp on alpine and sub-alpine meadows/grasslands, locally called “Bugyal.  Therefore forest department has revoked the permit to camp at Har Ki Dun effective from September’18. Starting from Oct’18, our highest camp is at Simatra after climbing Kalkatti Dhar. From Simatra we visit Har Ki Dun and return to camp for a day trip.

simatra-campsite-har-ki-dun-trek
An evening at Simatra campsite (P.C. Indrakshi)

Best time to choose Har Ki Dun trek?

Har Ki Dun trail is truly an year around trek, apart from monsoon season of July/August when it not convenient to trek. Every season has something to offer, which is special on its own.

Note: As of 2019, Forest department is not issuing permit on this trail from December to February. Starting from December 2016, this is enforced considering the corridor of winter migration for wildlife overlapping the trail. At present no permit is given for winter Har Ki Dun trek from December to February.

As said above, this trek is still pretty beautiful in all the permitted seasons. If you are looking for snow, Spring (March/April) is ideal. Amount of residual snow depends on the actual snowfall during winter months though you can be sure to get some or ample amount of residual snow in spring. See more pictures of snow in 2019 update at the bottom of the page.

har-ki-dun-trek-in-spring
Har Ki Dun trek: Early spring (March/April)

From May onward during the summer time, the valley turns into green, bright and luminous. Blue Pine, Deodar (Himalayan Cedar), Kharsu (Oak), Spruce, Silver Fir and Birch trees are lush and glossy green. Due to the heat glaciers melt faster and pour more water to the tributaries on Tons river. Day time temperatures are warm to pleasant and nights are cooler. If you don’t like cold atmosphere, certainly this is the season to choose.

har-ki-dun-trek-in-summer
Har Ki Dun trek during summer
summer-time-greenery-at-har-ki-dun
Eye soothing greenery from June to September

After monsoon is over by end of August, the valley remains lush green throughout   September. As the fall approaches, slowly the grass turns into pale yellow. Maple, Chestnut, Walnut and other deciduous tree species take the autumn leaf foliage. The surrounding transformed into spectacular yellow, orange and bronze hue. Not only foliage but an early snow fall chance during late autumn is another basis that you choose this season.

 fall-colours-at-har-ki-dun-during-autumn
Har Ki Dun in October (PC – Vineet)
har-ki-dun-valley-colours
During autumn (PC- Indrakshi)

As you see, it is up to you to choose the best suitable time to trek in this beautiful valley. Its a beautiful route all around the year.

Interior villages, native people and culture during Har Ki Dun trek:

In recent days it is not common on Himalayas that you need to walk a full day to reach the last village on a trail from nearest motorable road. The trail starting from Taluka village extends the opportunity to see interior villages like Gangad, Powani and finally Osla. Neatly wooden crafted houses and dress of the local people resemble the neighbouring Kinnauri culture of Himachal Pradesh. Parents who are keen to initiate hiking and outdoor experience to kids on the Himalayas, this route is indeed a chart topper. If you are more keen on this type of interaction, check our Har Ki Dun in Gangar and Osla homestay.

osla-village-kids-during-har-ki-dun-trek
Kids of Osla village
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Superb option for a family trek with kids

Osla temple and legends of Pandavas:

Starting in 1980’s some books/reports  referred the temple at Osla village as “Duryodhana” temple. Even till date on most websites it is portrayed that Mahabharata character Duryodhana is worshipped here. The proposition is indeed interesting but this may not be the case. This is a Someshwar temple and an adoration of Lord Shiva. Till date a festival along with a two week long Mela (a village fair) is organised during monsoon in month of Sawan worshipping the idol/Doli. The Doli moves from one village to another, seasonally.

Also few websites point the trail as the legendary path taken by the Pandavas to the heaven. Swargarohini peaks don’t have any connection to Swargarohini glacier, a.k.a Satopanth Swargarohini trek route which starts from Badrinath and far away from this region.

famous-temple-at-osla-village-har-ki-dun-trek
Someshwar temple at Osla village

Har Ki Dun trek temperature range:

Summer (May/June): Day time weather remains warm, specially if it is sunny and scorching and can go as high as 25/30°C. Night/early morning temp at Har Ki Dun can be around 10°C to 5°C.

Fall/Autumn (Oct/Nov) or Spring (Mar/Apr): From October temperature starts cooling down. At Har Ki Dun temperature can plummet to freezing in the night/early morning. Be prepared for 0°C. Expect similar temperatures if you trek during spring.

Winter (Dec/Feb): In Dec the daytime temp remains cool and nights are cold. Night temp at Sankri, Seema and Har Ki Dun can be around 2°, -2° and -5°/-10° C.

What type of clothing should I bring for this trek?

It is important to carry proper clothing on this trek. Three layers of clothing are recommended at the campsite in the early morning or evening while you are outside your tent.

  1. Base layer (moisture-wicking layer; use synthetic and avoid cotton): A quick-dry base layer (dry-fit t-shirt, half or full sleeves) & trekking pants (synthetic, preferably quick-dry, and some wind- or water-proof material is useful)
  2. Mid layer (warm clothing): Usually a warm jacket (synthetic, hollow fibre, fleece, or down jacket, etc.), but you may use combinations of layers as well (e.g., a light jacket + hoodies + a sweater or a thermal, which you may already have with you).
  3. Outer layer (weatherproofing): a windproof and waterproof jacket with a hood is best, or a poncho or raincoat.

Note that we don’t have any gear renting facilities, although at some bases, you may get a few on the spot. You may read our opinion on whether should you buy or rent your trekking gear to get a broader understanding.

Check a comprehensive List of things to carry in a himalayan trek or download the PDF. Also read how to choose right trekking gear before purchasing any gear.

Access to Har Ki Dun trek base Sankri:

We may arrange a pickup  from Dehradun to Sankri and return. This will be on a cost to cost basis and shared by the availing team members. You pay directly to the driver, sharing equally.  The fare is ₹ 6000 for a Tata Sumo, one way and can accommodate 5 to 6 people. Whereas a Tempo Traveller charges ₹ 900 (10 to 12 seats) one way. Approximately, ₹ 2000 per person when you avail both ways. This cost is not included in the TREK FEE.

Or else you may reach Sankri independently and join us here. Here is a road map with major points en route to Sankri.

route-map-to-reach-sankri-trek-base-from-dehradun-by-train-bus-flight
Reaching our trek base Sankri

Updates from Har Ki Dun trek Spring/Summer , March to May 2019:

Finally spring has arrived on mountains. As you may know by this time that, last winter was harsh, accompanied with consistent snowfall. This area is westernmost part of Uttarakhand, bordering Himachal, and receives more snowfall than other similar routes. Frequent snowfall took place as late as beginning of March. We hope that the trail will open by mid of April, after some snow slogging and you will get residual snow at Har Ki Dun, as late as May.

Here is our first team of the season reaching till Kalkatti Dhar on 22nd March’19.

har-ki-din-update-march-2019
March 2019: At Kalkatti Dhar

From mid April teams have started reaching Har Ki Dun comfortably. Below are the most recent pictures from our teams. We are hopeful that  you will get scattered snow as late as mid/later half of May.

har-ki-din-snow-update-17th-april-2019
Snowfall during mid April 2019
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Residual snow on trail early summer (PC: Avisek)
har-ki-dun-snow-1st-may-2019
Har Ki Dun on 1st May 2019 (PC: Avisek)
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Why treks with HT?

Expertise:10 years on ground experience
Support staff:Qualified local & office staff
Group size:Small groups up to 15
Insurance:Travel insured trek and tour itinerary
Easy Bookings:25% Booking Deposit

Duration: 5 days of trek; Walking to Har Ki Dun, exploration and return. Dehradun to Dehradun in 7 days.

Prerequisite: Ideal first Himalayan trek with basic physical fitness.

 Grade: Easy

 Physicality: 5.5/10

 Trail Length: 50 Km

 Highest Point: Har Ki Dun valley ~ 3500 m/11500 ft.

 Seasons: March to June (snow) and September to November.

Further Option: Continue to further north and cross Borasu Pass to reach Chitkul on Baspa valley in Kinnaur. (Difficult grade trek). Explore Jaundhar glacier (2 days side trip)

Access: Trek starting point and end point is Sankri.

Rail station: Dehradun (STN Code: DDN)

Airport: Delhi; Jolly Grant in Dehradun (Airport Code: DED)

Map:

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Upcoming scheduled dates for Har Ki Dun trek: 

  • You can check the scheduled Fixed Departure dates in the calendar available inside Booking Form or inside REGISTER NOW form. Tour starting Dates are highlighted as per our itinerary (Day 1 of  7 days itinerary).
  • At present BOOK NOW functionality is disabled. You can get all the information in your email by submitting the REGISTER NOW form.
  • If you are a group of people and available dates are not matching then you may select Custom date mode (by clicking the Select your custom date) and fill in the displayed form.
  • You can also check all the available dates at a glance in our TREK CALENDAR.
  • Trekkers need to reach Dehradun on Day 1 morning (latest by 8 am) or the previous night. Return to Dehradun on Day 7 evening by 7 pm. Arrange your tickets for inward journey and return accordingly.
DEPARTURE LOCATION Dehradun railway station
REPORTING TIME 7:00 AM for a prompt departure to Sankri (Day 1)
RETURN LOCATION Dehradun
RETURN TIME Approximately 7:00 PM (Day 7)
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How to reach Sankri (The trek base):

 Nearest Rail station: Dehradun (Station Code: DDN)

 Nearest Airport: Delhi, Jolly Grant in Dehradun (Airport Code: DED)

Based upon your request we will arrange a pick up and drop from Dehradun to Sankri and back. This will be shared equally by the team members on actual basis. You pay directly to the driver/transporter. The fare is Rs 5500 for a Tata Sumo/Mahindra Maxx one way. This can accommodate 6 to 8 people. A Tempo Traveller charges Rs 9000 (12-14 seat) one way. This is NOT included in TREK FEE and to be paid directly to the driver/owner.

If you wish to reach our Trek Base Sankri on your own by public transportation:

  • There are 2/3 privately operated buses from Dehradun (near DDN railway station on Gandhi road) To Sankri. The 200 Km journey will take around 10/12 hours. The busses start at  5:30/6/7 am.
  • While returning from Sankri take the morning bus to Dehradun/Vikasnagar and reach by 7 pm.

How to reach Dehradun:

For the treks at Uttarkashi district in Garhwal , one has to reach the capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun, specially the trek starting from Sankri, Yamunotri etc. Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun are 3 nearby cities in the area and one can move from one to another by public vehicles like bus or shared Jeeps.

For more options to reach Haridwar you can check here.

Haridwar to Dehradun: 55 Km and may take one and half to 2 hours.

Dehradun to Rishikesh: 45 Km and may take around one and a half hour.

You can fly or by train reach New Delhi as per your convenience from any part within India.

There are direct trains from Kolkata to Dehradun.

KUMBHA EXPRESS – Train No. – 12369 ( Very good option to reach Haridwar by 5 pm; You can take a bus from the terminus just opposite to the railway station referred as Roadways bus stand/ISBT and reach Dehradun in one and half hour. Spend the night in Dehradun and start your onward journey by car next morning.)

UPASANA EXPRESS – Train No. – 12327 ( Very good option to reach Dehradun directly by 5 pm; Spend the night in Haridwar and start your onward journey by car next morning)

DOON EXPRESS – Train No. – 13009 (Don’t book this train when you plan a long onward journey immediately in the morning)]

Avoid booking wait listed (WL) tickets in AC classes (1A/2A/3A) or Chair Car (CC). Book Sleeper class (SL)/Second Sitting class (2S) tickets which have normally more seats/berths and hence much better chance to get confirmed.

You can reach Dehradun easily  from New Delhi by train or bus (~ 6/7 hours) and is around 260 Km.

By train:

Following trains are good to reach Haridwar and run daily.

DDN JANSHTBDI – Train No. 12055 (Arrives DDN in the evening @ 9:10 pm, good choice when you stay the night in Dehradun and have a long drive ahead next day)
NANDA DEVI EXP – Train No. 12205 (arrives DDN early morning @ 5:40 am)

Always avoid booking waitlisted (WL) tickets in AC classes (1A/2A/3A) or Chair Car (CC). Book Sleeper class (SL)/Second Sitting class (2S) tickets which have normally more seats/berth and hence much better chance to get confirmed.

By bus:

Govt. Road Transport (Roadways of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab etc.) buses are frequently available in day time and night from Kashmiri Gate ISBT (http://www.delhi.gov.in/wps/wcm/connect/doit_transport/Transport/Home/ISBT/Fare+Chart). Tickets are available on board for these regular type buses. From Delhi Airport or Station you can reach ISBT Kashmiri Gate via Delhi Metro service (http://www.delhimetrorail.com/metro-fares.aspx). It is only 4 Km from NDLS and can be reached easily by booking an auto rickshaw.

For privately operated bus, you can book online from different portals. Select a boarding point suitably. Overnight Volvo/A.C/Push back buses are available. Normally these buses take up to 7 hours to reach Dehradun ISBT. You can book an auto rickshaw for Railway Station (5 Km away)/Hotel Drona (GMVN) or take a shared auto (Route No. 5) from ISBT.

[There are two major bus terminus in Dehradun. The buses from Delhi/Haridwar goes to the ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminus) and the other one is the Parvatiya Depot (Hill Depot, from where you can get the buses going up the hills like Uttarkashi, Barkot, Purola etc) located just beside the Railway station.

Nearest Airport Jolly Grant is 25 Km away from Dehradun. book a private taxi to reach Dehradun city. This airport is accessed from Dehradun, Haridwar and Rishikesh easily. The flights are mostly via Delhi.

For night stay in Dehradun:

Trekkers reaching on the previous day before the journey to the actual trek base need to stay the night in Dehradun. There are several options in Dehradun for spending a night while staying in Premium, Standard or Budget accommodation. Options vary from Privately operated Hotels/Lodges, to state run Tourist Rest Houses.

State run GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) operates Hotel Drona complex is 10 minutes walking from the railway Station. You can book an auto rickshaw. From ISBT it is around 5 Km. You can book an auto rickshaw to Hotel Drona (GMVN) or take a shared auto (Route No. 5) from ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminus). This is a reliable and a decent choice for Standard accommodation. The have restaurant and room service.
Check the following for online booking of the above: http://www.gmvnl.com/newgmvn/tour/booktrh.asp
You can call or visit GMVN nearest office or even send an email for more information.The information is available at:
http://www.gmvnl.com/newgmvn/online_reservation/#

Return from Dehradun:

Normally you reach Dehradun from any trek base  by 6/7 pm in the evening. You can take any train after 9 pm or regular bus service as mentioned above to reach Delhi or directly to your homeward journey in the same night.

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  TREK FEE: ₹ 12,950 (Sankri to Sankri) + 5% GST  

Inclusions:

 2 night’s accommodation at Sankri (Day 1 & Day 6) in lodge on triple sharing basis and dinner. Men and women will be given separate rooms in Fixed Departures.

Car drop from Sankri to Dhatmeer (trek starting point) and return.

 All meals during the trek (Day 1 dinner to Day 6 dinner, B, L, D). Regular Indian style nutritious vegetarian food during the trek (including occasional eggs), breakfast packed or hot lunch (depending upon the time you reach a campsite), (light refreshments in the evening), dinner by 7:30-8 pm. Morning and evening tea.

Excellent Trekking Guide, who will be a local to this particular area and has profound knowledge of the trekking trails around.

Cook and support staff, Porters and packed animals for carrying the central logistics of the trek.

 Stay in tents on twin sharing basis during the trek.

Camping equipment like Sleeping bag, Carry mattress, Gaiters, Micro spikes/Crampon. (Bring your own sleeping if you have a high altitude specific personal Sleeping Bag. This is always better for hygienic reasons.)

Kitchen tent, dining tent and toilet tent as required during the trek.

Any entry fee, camping charges, forest levy required for the trek.

 Basic Medical & First Aid kit.

Travel cum Medical Insurance Policy covering high altitude trekking tours (For Indian nationals it is included in the TREK FEE, up to 60 years of age). It covers your trek as well as your return journey to Dehradun, i.e. 7 days itinerary.

Exclusions:

Transportation from Dehradun to and back. ₹ 6500 for a Tata Sumo and ₹ 10000 for a Tempo Traveller. (approx. ₹ 1000 per person one way for the pick up and drop when shared with fellow trekkers, payable directly to the driver.)

We assume that you will carry your personal rucksack or backpack with all your personal belongings. If you want to offload your rucksack and be carried on a horse, then you need to pay an additional ₹ 2000 for the entire duration of the trek (5 days). The rucksack should not weigh more than 10 kg.

₹ 3000 + 5% GST per person additional charge for foreigners towards various permits/entry tickets/levies and simple english speaking guide.

 Any tip/gratuity to the HT support staff.

Anything that is NOT mentioned in the “Inclusions” or personal in nature.

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Day 1

Drive to Sankri: 200 Km - 10/11 hours

Pickup in the morning from Dehradun and reach Sankri (~ 1900 m, 6230 ft) . Distance around 200 Km and can take 9/10 hours. The road is one of the most scenic in Garhwal region while we go up to the classy hill station of Mussoorie at the beginning, turquoise Yamuna river in the middle and conifer forests of blue pine and meandering Tons river at the later half of the journey. The major points are Mussorie, Yamuna Pool, Damta, Nawgaon, Purola, Mori and Netwar. Mori is the last place from where you can get a confirmed mobile phone network and also has a SBI ATM. Though Sankri has a BSNL tower but network doesn’t remain most of the time! After crossing Netwar we reach the check post of Govind Vanya Jibh Vihar (Govind National Park) from where the permits need to be obtained. Sankri has few private lodges and a GMVN operated Tourist Rest House (TRH) and couple of basic restaurant to serve food. Night stay in lodge/homestay.

Day 2

Drive to Taluka: 1 hour; Trek to Seema: 14 Km - 6/7 hours

Wake up early in the morning to see the first sun light on Sankri. It is a small stretch of Bazaar and the adjacent village. After breakfast we prepare to start our trek. There is a motor able Kaccha road from Sankri to Taluka heading up the valley. The bumpy 11 Km ride takes around 45 minutes to reach Taluka (~2100 m/6900 ft). Our walk starts from Taluka. The camping ground is adjacent to the Forest Rest House. There is a small tea shop at the end of the road and 2/3 very small provision stores. We directly take the stony stair cases to get down almost to the river bed and start walking along the Tamosa river, keeping it on our left (“True Left” of the river). It is an easy gently walk gradually moving up the valley. Snow is encountered at patches where sun doesn’t get a chance to enter for longer duration. After walking for an hour we cross a side stream and move on to an flat opening on the left hand of the trail. Local people are seen in an interval with heavy loads on their back aiming to stock provisions for long winters. There are few villages in this valley like Datmir, Gangar, Powani and Osla, the last one being the farthest. Walking along the valley in the shades of conifer and occasional snow patches for 9 Km, we reach a side stream and cross the bridge to get on the main valley again. This place has also a bridge on the Tamosa river and the Village named “Gangar” is mostly on the other side of the river. From here we continue our gradual walk for another hour to reach an opening with a new concrete construction for a proposed school. A bridge on Tamosa is built here to reach the village of Osla. We keep our track while the river is on our left and walk another hour inside a sun shed thick forest to reach Seema (~2500 m, 8200 ft). The last stretch remains snowy in winter and avoid slush. One GMVN TRH and a Forest Rest House along with a solitary private Dhaba (Opens from Jun till Oct) to serve food. Prior booking of the any of these is highly recommended for trekkers who don’t have camping setup. Camping ground is also nearby. Seema is not a village but only a tourist shelter point. The village Osla is on the other side of the river, almost ~ 215 m/700 ft above the river bed. Total distance is 14 Km and may take 6/7 hours. We camp for the night.

Day 3

Trek to Har Ki Dun: 11 Km - 5/6 hours

We start in the morning on the stoned trail and reach the suspension bridge at Seema. The trail straight ahead goes to Ruinsara Tal and further to Bali Pass or Dhumdharkandi Pass. Cross the Tamosa river and climb up to reach the trail which is going along the river upstream. From now onward the river will be on our right (“True Right” of the river) and we gradually go up to reach a vast green expanse which is a huge clearing for farming by the people of Osla. From here the peaks facing north and north east opens up and the views of Banderpunch group and Swargarohini group are breathtaking along with Black Peak (Kalanag). We gradually skirt the mountain for another hour to reach the base of the steady climb to Kalkatti Dhar. From here we can see the Ruinsara valley takes a right turn , while we take a left turn. Har Ki Dun Nallah and Ruinsara Nallah meets below Kalkatti Dhar to form Tamosa river. It is normally windy while we climb to Kalkatti Dhar. After reaching the the highest point on the shoulder of the mountain we turn left and gradually go down. First time after Seema we again enter into the forest and descend steadily to a side stream. In winter the waterfall remains frozen. This is a good place to have lunch. From here we gradually climb in to a forest canopy of Silver Fir , Cedar and Oak. Crossing the forest we enter in to the wider valley with occasional Birch ( Bhurja Patra in Hindi) and Rhododendrons. The valley is teemed with bird life. Buntings, Flycatchers and Mountain Fiches are abundant. Himalayan Langur and Blue Sheep are common in this valley. There are reported sightings of elusive Snow Leopard in this region. Now the river bed is almost at the same level and Har Ki Dun valley approaches. The camping ground is near the river and several tents can be pitched. Walk another 10 mins to cross the Har Ki Dun Nallah over a small wooden bridge. Forest Rest house (FRH) is a minutes walk from here. GMVN TRH is another 10 mins ahead. It is mandatory in winter to book in advance for any of these huts. Caretaker only comes along with the keys for a prior booking. During summer food is available in GMVN TRH. There are two rooms at FRH and one dormitory at GMVN which can be booked. It is better to come with own tent and provisions in season to avoid any hassle. Total distance is 11 Km and may take 5/6 hours. Average height of the valley is ~ 3500 m/11500 ft. Camp for the night.

Day 4

Exploration Day towards Marinda Tal or Jamdar Glacier: 8/10 Km - 4/5 hours

Wake up early in the morning to see the sunrise on Swargarohini group of peaks. Changing colour is magnificent to watch and unforgettable. The Forest Rest House (FRH) is located some what centrally in this vast expanse of the valley.  Heading straight from FRH is Har Ki Dun peak. On the right towering Swargarohini and to the left is Hata peak. Two streams are coming from two different directions, one from Jaundar glacier and other from Borasu pass watershed to Har Ki Dun and forming the Har Ki Dun Nallah. Har Ki Dun is a big enough valley sitting in the middle with forking of trails in different directions. Treeline recedes here in all directions. Today is an exploration day amidst snow or simply one can sit back at the campsite and relax while sipping a cup of coffee. After breakfast one can either go to explore the Jaundar glacier or to Maninda Tal area, which are on different directions. The snout of Janudar glacier is 8 Km from Har Ki Dun. The trail is not defined and on snow, boulder and moraine, involving descent and ascent. It is pretty difficult to reach the snout of the glacier and return to the campsite in a single push. A camping is required in between. It is advisable to venture and advance in this direction only till noon and retrace back by 3 pm. On the other hand, Maninda Tal is about 2 hours walk from Har Ki Dun and is in the route towards Borasu Pass trail which connects this valley to Baspa valley in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. The area is a shallow formation of clogged water resulting from a flattened bed of the stream. The valley heading upward looks splendid from here. Lammergeier and Himalayan Griffons encircle the valley surrounded by rocky cliffs. Pug marks of Snow Leopard following a flock of Bharal (Blue Sheep) is common. Return to Har Ki Dun by lunch time and take the hot lunch prepared freshly. From the FRH cross the wooden bridge on the Har Ki Dun Nallah walk toward the camping ground in the afternoon. Kedarkanta peak is clearly visible and the highest point in this direction. Sunset is mesmerising , reflecting the last rays of sun on Har Ki Dun Nallah and peak. Changing golden hue makes any trekker a spellbound spectator. It is a good idea to collect firewood to setup a fire in the night. This is already a fragile ecosystem, so ONLY collect branches and twigs which are already fallen from the trees. The FRH has a fireplace inside. Nights are pretty cold here and the temperature can plummet to -10 deg C outside the night in winters. Night stay in tent.

Day 5

Trek to Osla/Seema: 11 Km - 5 hours

Today after breakfast we start our return journey toward Seema. It is a gentle descent along downstream till we reach the waterfall which remains frozen in winter. From here we climb up to Kalkatti Dhar and descend gradually to the vast crop field. Approaching the Seema bridge, we take the trail straight heading toward the village Osla, instead of directly going down to Seema. It is a memorable experience to visit a village like Osla, nestled on the lap of mountain. The houses are mostly build of wooden structure with slate as the roof. Houses are two storied, lower being the cattle shelter and firewood/fodder store, upper being the residence of the family. Though few satellite TV dishes  are present on top of few houses but the village lacks  very basic facilities.  A satellite phone is available to connect to the outer world. One can make a phone call to home by paying nominal charge, if a connection is available. The village is spread along the slope of the mountain and a temple is the heart of the village. Wood crafted temple is more than a century old. It is a legend that Duryodhan, the eldest brother of the Kauravas is worshipped in this temple. The deity of the temple resides at different temples of the villages of this valley, turn by turn. The rule being same across the Himalaya, summer is higher, and winter is lower. It is a chance to meet local children and people, knowing their livelihood, custom and culture, social structure. It is worthwhile to spend some time with joyful kids in the village. After spending some time in the village we take the trail down toward the Seema bridge and by crossing the suspension bridge we reach Seema. Night accommodation in tent.

Day 6

Trek to Taluka: 14 Km - 6/7 hours; Drive to Sankri: 1 hour

We retrace our trail back to Taluka. From here take the car to reach the trek end point Sankri. Night stay in lodge/homestay.

Day 7

Drive to Dehradun: 200 Km - 10 hours

In the morning we start our return journey and reach Dehradun by 7 pm. Trip ends here.

P.S.: Distances and altitudes are approximate and may not be exact.

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Booking:

  • We assume that you have read and understood our “Terms & Conditions” (https://himalayatrekker.com/terms-and-conditions) before Booking a trek/tour.
  • To reserve your place in a scheduled Fixed Departure trek or a Customised/Private trek pay 25% of the TREK/TOUR FEE as the initial “Booking Deposit”. You can pay by Net banking/Draft/Cheque/Credit/Debit/AMEX cards. This will ensure your participation in the desired trek and we will reserve your place in the scheduled date. You need to pay the remaining amount at least 15 days before Trek Starting Date.
  • If you book a Trek/Tour before 14 days or less from Trek/Tour Starting Date, you need to pay the full TREK/TOUR FEE.

 Cancellations:

  • “Booking Amount” i.e.25% of the TREK/TOUR FEE is Non-Refundable at any stage.
  • If in case you are not able to make it due to unavoidable reason(s), we provide you a very flexible choice of Shifting to another trek within next one year. One year is counted from the starting date of the trek/tour you booked initially with us.
  • In case you postpone your trip you need to informminimum of 15 days before the trek/tour starting date. (Though we suggest to inform us earlier if known)
  • In case you postpone a trek/tour before 15 days of the scheduled Trek/Tour Starting date or prior, you may shift to another group of the same trek/tour scheduled in the same season or within next one year. You may shift to another suitable route also. For changing any, you need our approval first. Your request must be in written communication through your registered email with us.
  • If you cancel/postpone a trek/tour from14 days to 8 days before tour starting date, your Booking Amount is Non-Refundable. We will not take any request of shifting dates. We will charge 50% of the amount as Cancellation Charges and process refund of remaining 50%. You may also shift to another group within next year but 25% Booking Amount will be deemed as Cancellation Charge and the rest amount will be transferred to the shifted group.
  • If you cancel a trek/tour 7 days (i.e. a week) before Trek/Tour Starting Date or later, there will be NO REFUND.
  • In case of any unforeseen incident including but not limited to natural calamities like flood, earthquake, landslide, forest fire or any political unrest, if we are compelled to cancel the trek/trip, you will be entitled to redeem the full amount for the same/similar kind of trek/trip within next one year.

If you need more clarifications write in to [email protected]

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Har ki dun trek

Tour Reviews

5.00 based on 6 reviews
May 31, 2022

just wanted to let you know that we just got back from our trekking trip. The trip was wonderful and your team took great care of us. We would not have lived through this experience without their kindness and care. I can’t thank them enough. The staff was very good and always on top to please us. Devonder, our guide knew enough English to speak with my husband, and I was able to talk in Hindi with them. So, we were able to communicate well. They cooked a special cake for us to celebrate our wedding anniversary on Sunday

April 20, 2022

Entire HT team members were professionals in their areas. They started their support from the initial days of our planning (we being first time Trekkers). Well behaved team members acted as a good team, guided & supported us to enjoy our trekking. Excellent experience. All the best to HT Team….

January 15, 2020

We did the Har Ki Dun trek in November 2019, and it was honestly one of the most amazing experiences we have ever had. The trek itself is beautiful already, but the guides explaining things about the local life and villages on the way made it even better. The food was good, we slept in nice tents and the guides made sure we were doing okay all the time. Overall, a wonderful time spent in one of the prettiest places on our planet!

November 30, 2018

We went for the Har ki Dun Trek from the 18th November. It was really a different experience. We camped for the first time. The arrangements for camping every day was very aptly made by our guides and their helpers. We could survive on such high altitude and low temperature just because of them. The awesome finger-liking food that was made for us and served hot everyday kept us going. Our guides, Rohit and Chandraprakash deserve a special mention and thanks for their continuous support, in literally every step. They made sure none of us have any problem during the trek. Whenever we stopped for sitting down, either to rest every few minutes or to just take photos, they would patiently wait with us. They never rushed us. They guided us very patiently. And as friends. This is our 2nd trek with HT and we are very happy with everything.

December 29, 2012

It was my first winter trek so I was a bit skeptical in attending when I cam to know about it from my friend. However, once I enrolled into it, it turned out to be the best experience of my life. Being the only person from North India (actually from West India… :)) in the group of all south Indians and Bengali, I never felt, for a single moment, that I am not part of the group. Jokes cracked, delicious meals eaten, never on time departures, snow clad peaks and valleys, becoming friends with strangers, there are so many things I remember even today. I would definitely like to trek again with HT for their non-formal environment, excellent time management, delicious meal arrangement and guidance…

July 10, 2012

The trekking was amazing, we all very much enjoyed being in the Himalayas, with spectacular scenery and clear air! The logistics and planning were great, it was easy to set it up with you by email, and when we started the trek everything went well. Rajan was an excellent guide, very accommodating and made us feel at home.

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