Har Ki Dun Trek – The Valley of Gods
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About the Trek
The Har Ki Dun Trek is a mesmerizing journey into the heart of Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas. Also known as the “Valley of Gods,” this trek is famous for its scenic beauty, ancient villages, and mythological significance. With its easy-to-moderate difficulty, it is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers looking for a peaceful Himalayan experience.
Key Highlights
- Stunning Valley Views: Walk through lush meadows, dense forests, and pristine rivers.
- Rich Mythology: Believed to be the route taken by the Pandavas to heaven.
- Ancient Villages: Witness 3,000-year-old villages like Osla and Sankri.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot Himalayan wildlife like black bears, musk deer, and monals.
- Panoramic Peaks: Get breathtaking views of Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpoonch.
Tour Description
The trek starts from Sankri, a charming village in Uttarakhand. The trail takes trekkers through dense pine and rhododendron forests, opening up to the spectacular Har Ki Dun Valley. Along the way, trekkers pass through picturesque villages like Seema and Osla, known for their unique wooden architecture and cultural heritage. The trek culminates at Har Ki Dun, a scenic valley at 3,566 meters, surrounded by snow-clad peaks. The return journey follows the same route back to Sankri.
Challenges
- Altitude Gain: A steady ascent requires proper acclimatization.
- Weather Variability: Rain and snowfall can affect trail conditions.
- Remote Terrain: Limited connectivity and basic facilities in villages.
Facilities
- Certified Trek Guides: Experienced professionals ensure safety.
- Comfortable Accommodation: Tents and guesthouses along the route.
- Healthy Meals: Nutritious vegetarian meals provided.
- First Aid Support: Basic medical assistance available.
Who Can Participate?
- Suitable for trekkers with a moderate fitness level.
- Recommended for ages 14 and above.
- Perfect for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
How to Reach
- Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station.
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.
- Road Connectivity: Sankri is accessible via Dehradun.
Pick-up and Drop-off Info
Pick-up from Dehradun Railway Station or Jolly Grant Airport, followed by a drive to Sankri. Drop-off at Dehradun after the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is the best time for the Har Ki Dun Trek?
A: The best time is from April to June and September to November. - Q: Is Har Ki Dun Trek difficult?
A: It is an easy-to-moderate trek, suitable for beginners. - Q: Can beginners do this trek?
A: Yes, this trek is beginner-friendly with gradual ascents.
Key Points
- Best Time to Travel: April to June, September to November.
- Temperature: 10°C to 25°C (day), -2°C to 10°C (night).
- Altitude: 3,566 meters (Har Ki Dun).
- Longitude: 78.4151°E
- Latitude: 31.0786°N
Included/Exclude
Inclusions in the Tour Package
- Accommodation: Camps (Sharing Camp for two people), Home Stay.
- Guides & Support Staff: Qualified & experienced Trek Leader, Guide, and Support staff to assist trekkers.
- Sleeping Gear: Sleeping Bags.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Packed Lunch, and Dinner – only vegetarian).
- Permits & Fees: Trekking Permits and Forest Fees.
- Trekking Equipment: Tent, Mattress, Sleeping Bag, Dining & Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Cooking Utensils, and Crampons (if required).
- Medical Assistance: First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder.
- Guide & Support Staff Expenses: Guide Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Potters: Potters will carry only trekking equipment.
- Potter's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Kitchen Staff: Included for cooking and meal preparation.
- Kitchen Staff Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Cook: Responsible for preparing meals.
- Cook's Expenses: Allowances, Food, and Stay.
- Transportation: As per the trek itinerary.
Exclusions in the Tour Package
- Any other facilities that are not mentioned in the inclusions.
- Potters for carrying your personal luggage.
- Extra meals like lunch during the journey by cab and stay at hotels (lunch is only provided during the trek).
- Personal expenses such as Water Bottles, Laundry, Phone Calls, etc.
- Insurance.
- Gaiters.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under "Inclusions."
Tour Amenities
Certified Trek Leader
Hassle-Free Permits
Warm Meals, Always
Itinerary
Overview
Altitude:
- Dehradun: 430 meters / 1,411 feet
- Sankri: 1,950 meters / 6,397 feet
Drive Distance: Dehradun to Sankri - 200 km (approx. 8-9 hours)
Detailed Plan
- Depart from Dehradun early in the morning.
- Enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque Yamuna and Tons valleys, passing through towns like Mussoorie, Nainbagh, Purola, and Netwar.
- Arrive at Sankri by evening and check into a guesthouse or homestay.
- Briefing about the trek and overnight stay in Sankri.
Overview
Altitude:
- Sankri: 1,950 meters / 6,397 feet
- Taluka: 2,100 meters / 6,890 feet
- Pauni Garaat: 2,500 meters / 8,202 feet
Drive Distance: Sankri to Taluka - 12 km (approx. 1 hour)
Trek Distance: Taluka to Pauni Garaat - 10 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Detailed Plan
- After breakfast, drive to Taluka, the starting point of the trek.
- Begin the trek through dense forests of chestnut, walnut, and chinar trees.
- The trail follows the Supin River, crossing streams and bridges.
- Reach Pauni Garaat and set up camp near the river.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Altitude:
- Pauni Garaat: 2,500 meters / 8,202 feet
- Osla: 2,590 meters / 8,497 feet
- Kalkattiyadhar: 2,950 meters / 9,678 feet
Trek Distance: Pauni Garaat to Kalkattiyadhar - 8 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Detailed Plan
- Resume trekking after breakfast, ascending gradually.
- Pass through Osla village, known for its unique culture and ancient temple dedicated to Duryodhana.
- Continue the trek through terraced fields and forests, with the Swargarohini peaks becoming more prominent.
- Arrive at Kalkattiyadhar and set up camp in the meadow.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Altitude:
- Kalkattiyadhar: 2,950 meters / 9,678 feet
- Har Ki Dun: 3,566 meters / 11,700 feet
Trek Distance: Round trip - 14 km (approx. 7-8 hours)
Detailed Plan
- Start early to ascend towards Har Ki Dun valley.
- The trail offers panoramic views of the Swargarohini peaks and lush meadows.
- Explore the Har Ki Dun valley, known for its rich flora and fauna.
- After spending time in the valley, retrace your steps back to Kalkattiyadhar.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Altitude:
- Kalkattiyadhar: 2,950 meters / 9,678 feet
- Osla: 2,590 meters / 8,497 feet
- Pauni Garaat: 2,500 meters / 8,202 feet
Trek Distance: Kalkattiyadhar to Pauni Garaat - 8 km (approx. 4-5 hours)
Detailed Plan
- Begin the descent from Kalkattiyadhar, retracing the path via Osla village.
- Enjoy interactions with the locals and observe their unique culture and architecture.
- Cross lush meadows and forests before reaching Pauni Garaat.
- Set up camp and enjoy a relaxing evening by the river.
- Overnight stay in tents.
Overview
Altitude:
- Pauni Garaat: 2,500 meters / 8,202 feet
- Taluka: 2,100 meters / 6,890 feet
- Sankri: 1,950 meters / 6,397 feet
Trek Distance: Pauni Garaat to Taluka - 10 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
Drive Distance: Taluka to Sankri - 12 km (approx. 1 hour)
Detailed Plan
- Start early for the final stretch of the trek.
- Walk along the Supin River, following a well-defined trail through forests and meadows.
- Reach Taluka and board vehicles for the drive back to Sankri.
- Check into a guesthouse or homestay and enjoy a celebratory dinner.
- Overnight stay in Sankri.
Overview
Drive Distance: Sankri to Dehradun - 200 km (approx. 8-9 hours)
Detailed Plan
- Depart from Sankri in the morning for the return journey to Dehradun.
- Enjoy the scenic drive through picturesque valleys and towns.
- Arrive in Dehradun by evening, marking the end of the trek.
Important Notes
- Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial due to the high altitude. Avoid rapid ascents.
- Weather Conditions: Be prepared for unpredictable weather, including rain and cold temperatures.
- Essential Gear: Trekking shoes, warm layers, waterproof clothing, gloves, and trekking poles are recommended.
- Fitness Requirements: A moderate fitness level is required. Regular cardio exercises and leg strengthening workouts will help.
- Altitude Sickness: Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea should be reported to the trek leader immediately.
- Permits and Documentation: Trekking permits are required and will be arranged in Sankri. Carry valid ID proof.
- Eco-Friendly Trekking: Follow the Leave No Trace policy—carry back all waste and avoid plastic use.
- Best Time to Visit: The best months for the trek are April to June and September to November for clear skies and pleasant weather.
- Emergency Protocols: Mobile network is limited. In case of emergencies, guides will have access to satellite communication.
