Overview

The Har ki Dun trek, in the Garhwal Himalayas, is a trekker’s delight that makes one fall in love with the beauty of nature. The most wonderful highlight of the trek is its accessibility both in winter and summer. The walk to the Har Ki Dun valley also rewards you with breathtaking views of the Swargarohini peaks. Along the way, you will come across a few remote villages, such as Gangar, Taluka, and Osla, which offer the best trekking experience in Uttarakhand. While trekking here, you will not only experience the thrill, but will also learn the unique lifestyle and traditions of people living here. Through this article, you will get an idea of what your Har Ki Dun camping and Trekking experience would be like.

About Har Ki Dun Trek

The Har Ki Dun Trek starts from Sankri village, and while trekking here, you might spot wildlife, including barking deer, wild boar, and leopards. This easy-to-moderate trek takes you along some of the isolated trek routes and isolated civilisations nestled in the Himalayas. While Har Ki Dun is relatively easy compared to other Himalayan Treks, sometimes it can be difficult to find the trail. You can hire an experienced guide to ensure safety and easy navigation. Along with the trek, you will also get breathtaking views of the Swargarohini I & II peaks. Legends believe that the Pandavas took this route via the Swargarohini peaks to ascend to heaven. This mythological connection makes the trek even more interesting.

Best Time for Har Ki Dun Trek and Camping

The best part about the Har Ki Dun trek is that it can be done at any time of the year, irrespective of the season. However, trekking and camping can be best done during the summer and autumn months. During summer, from April to June, the weather remains pleasant and makes the trekking experience comfortable. The temperature in summer ranges from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius during the daytime. The trails are dry and safe from landslides, making it easier to navigate through the valley.

From September to November, during the Autumn Season, the weather is crisp and cool, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius. Autumn brings stunning views and clear skies. The trail also remains clear from monsoon rain, and the stable weather makes this time perfect for trekking.

Difficulty of Har Ki Dun Trek

The Har Ki Dun Trek is moderately difficult, and it is easily accessible for trekkers with good fitness or prior trekking experience. The trekking trail involves a mix of forested sections, rocky paths, and a few steep sections. The trail is diverse, but manageable for trekkers with good physical health. The total distance covered on the Har Ki Dun trek is around 43 kilometres, and it takes around 7 days to complete. You must be prepared to walk for 5 to 10 km daily. The trek starts from Sankri Village, at 6,400 feet, and the maximum altitude you will reach is 11,800 feet. This gradual altitude gain allows your body time to adapt to low oxygen levels at higher altitudes and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Drive to Sankri from Dehradun

Day 2: From Sankri, you have to reach Dhatmeer (by road) and then start trekking to Pauni Garaat.

Day 3: Today, you will trek from Pauni Garaat to Seematra.

Day 4: Trek to Har Ki Dun from Seematra and back.

Day 5: Trek to Pauni Garaat from Seematra.

Day 6: Then, from Pauni Garaat, you will trek to Dhatmeer and continue the journey towards Sankri by road.

Day 7: From Sankri, you will return to Dehradun by road.

How to Reach the Base Camp

Located in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district, the base village of the Har ki Dun trek is easily accessible from Dehradun. This is the closest major city to the base camp (Sankri Village).

By Air: The closest airport to Sankri village is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 226 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Sankri.

By Train: You can take a train to Dehradun Railway Station from Major Indian cities and hire a taxi or bus from the railway station to Sankri Village.

By Road: You can take a bus or taxi to Dehradun from Delhi, Chandigarh, or other major nearby cities. The distance between Delhi and Dehradun is 240 km, so self-driving can also be a good option. Upon reaching Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Sankri.

Things to Keep in Mind For the Trek

• Trekkers need to be completely fit when going on the trek

• Keep your mind and feet calm and watch your steps while walking on a steep and rocky path.

• Keep track of your path and follow your guide for a safe trek experience.

• Consult your doctor before the trek if you have any medical conditions.

• Don’t forget to carry a medical kit, as it is very important for safety.

• Inform your guide in case you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.

• Start trekking early in the morning to complete the trek before it gets dark.

FAQ’s

Q1. Do I need previous trekking experience for the Har Ki Dun Trek?

No, previous trekking experience is not required for the Har Ki Dun Trek, but it is recommended to have a good level of physical fitness.

Q2. Do we need to obtain permits for the Har Ki Dun Trek?

Yes, you need to obtain certain permits for the Har Ki Dun Trek from the local authorities for the forest department.

Q3. What is the distance and altitude of the Har Ki Dun Trek?

The total distance covered on the Har Ki Dun Trek is 43 km, and the maximum altitude gain will be 11,700 feet.

Conclusion

A trek to the Har Ki Dun valley is a lifetime experience that takes you through pristine Himalayan Landscapes, where you can find serenity and peace. However, the trek can be a bit challenging, but it can be managed with a good fitness level and proper preparation. So, book your Har Ki Dun Valley Trek now and enjoy a memorable escape in the lap of nature.