The Gomukh Trek is a moderate yet soul-stirring trail through the Gangotri National Park in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. Starting from the ancient pilgrimage town of Gangotri, the path follows the banks of the Bhagirathi River through pine and birch forests, past the campsite of Chirbasa, ascending to the high-altitude meadow of Bhojbasa, and finally reaching Gomukh — the glacier's icy snout at 4,255 m. For the spiritually inclined, the trek holds enormous religious significance as Gomukh is considered the birthplace of the River Ganga.
Key features and unique experiences
Complete journey time
Peak elevation
Stay arrangement
Challenge intensity
Begin with an early morning drive from Haridwar or Rishikesh via Uttarkashi through the scenic Bhagirathi Valley. Continue past Harsil to reach Gangotri (3,100 m) by evening. Check into your guesthouse or campsite, attend the evening Ganga Aarti at the sacred Gangotri Temple, and acclimatize for the trek ahead.
Accommodation in guesthouses and camps throughout the trek.
All meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 lunch.
Experienced and certified trekking guide for the entire journey.
Porters and mules for carrying camping and trekking equipment.
Gangotri National Park entry permits and all required trekking permits.
Camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
First aid kit and emergency oxygen cylinder available during the trek.
Transport Gangotri to the trailhead and back
Environmental deposit (refundable on return)
Travel to and from Haridwar or Rishikesh.
Personal travel insurance (strongly recommended but not included).
Personal trekking gear such as trekking boots, jackets, and trekking poles.
Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and support staff.
Meals and beverages not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.
Medical expenses, emergency evacuation, or hospitalization costs.
Additional expenses arising from trip extension, cancellation, weather delays, or unforeseen circumstances.
Tapovan extension permits & guide (if applicable)
Personal photography/equipment charges
Ideal seasons and weather conditions
Everything you need to know before booking
Prior trekking experience is not mandatory, but you should be reasonably fit and able to walk 10–12 km daily on rocky mountain terrain. Completing a shorter Himalayan trek beforehand can be beneficial.
Yes. A Gangotri National Park entry permit is mandatory and must be obtained at Gangotri. Camping at Bhojbasa requires an additional permit, while trekking beyond Gomukh to Tapovan requires a special mountaineering permit and a registered guide.
During May and June, daytime temperatures generally range from 5°C to 15°C, while nights can fall to –5°C to –10°C. In October, temperatures may drop further to –10°C to –15°C at Bhojbasa, making proper layering essential.
BSNL and Jio networks work in Gangotri, but connectivity becomes extremely limited beyond Chirbasa. There is no reliable mobile signal at Bhojbasa or Gomukh.
There are no ATMs beyond Uttarkashi. Basic snacks and refreshments are available at Chirbasa and Bhojbasa, but they are limited and relatively expensive, so carry sufficient cash.
Yes. Porters, ponies, and mules can be hired at Gangotri to carry luggage up to Bhojbasa. However, animals cannot continue over the rocky terrain near Gomukh, so trekkers should carry a daypack themselves.
Simple vegetarian meals such as dal-rice, khichdi, chapati, Maggi noodles, and tea are available at Chirbasa and Bhojbasa, including at Lal Baba Ashram. Carry additional high-energy snacks for the Gomukh trek.
Solo trekking is permitted up to Gomukh with a valid permit, but it is not recommended due to unpredictable weather, limited rescue facilities, and wildlife risks. Trekking with a guide or organized group is strongly advised.
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