Name: Gangotri
Rating: 3.1

Tapovan

Tapovan, Gangotri Overview

Situated at the foothills of Shivling peak, this camping base located at 4460 m above sea level, is popular for its lush greenery and view of peaks and ranges. You can trek up the route, organized by various adventure camps in Gangotri.

Food Availability

Dhaba food is available up along the way. You can pack essential food for the rest of the climb.

Camping/Shelter

Guest houses are available at all destinations. Camping can also be adopted by trekkers on the trek because of the natural beauty that it boasts of.

Water Availability

Water is available in the guest houses along the way. It is advisable to stock up in reasonable quantities whenever a refilling option is available.

General tips and tricks

1) Make sure you carry warm clothes along with you no matter during whichever season you are travelling in. 2) Be always prepared with your trekking gear and equipment. 3) Carrying your own medication and a good pair of shoes is a must. 4) Make sure you obtain all the permits well in advance required for trekking in the region. 5) Also carry raingear along as weather at higher altitude changes at every moment. 6) Choose a well-qualified and professional guide and fix the rates in order to avoid any misunderstanding. 7) Carry spare batteries and film roll for camera as there maybe no electricity supply.

How to reach Tapovan

Rail: As Rishikesh is a relatively smaller station, it's prefereable to reach a more well connected railhead nearby, i.e Haridwar. Board the overnight Nanda Devi AC Express leaving New Delhi at 11:50 pm reaching Haridwar by 4:00am. Board waiting vehicles to be driven straight to Uttarkashi. It is a 7 hour long drive. There are frequest taxis, buses from Uttarkashi to Gangotri. It is a 4-5 hour long drive.
Road: Delhi to Gangotri is 471 km by road and takes about 15 hours to reach.

Itinerary

Day 1 : Gangotri to Bhojwasa

Distance: 13 Km , Duration: 5 to 6 hrs

Have breakfast and trek to Bhojwassa via Chirbasa (3600mt). Walk along the beaten track towards Chirbasa, which is on tree line, along the roaring Bhagirathi River. Beyond Chirbasa the terrain becomes really desolate and barren, which is referred to as Artic Tundra by many trekkers. The entire trail passes through dense forest. Arrive at Bhojwassa where there is a small temple and a potential campsite near down the river. Camp near river side and spend the afternoon exploring the area and to enjoy excellent sunset on Bhagirathi group of peaks. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 2 : Bhojwasa to Gomukh to Tapovan

After breakfast, trek to Gomukh (3890mt). Explore the area and trek to Tapovan, one of the finest high altitude alpine meadows in the area. The trek from Gomukh to Tapovan is ascent steep, and as we climb, the view of the surrounding peaks . becomes clearer. Tapovan's known for its beautiful meadows that encircle the base camp of the Shivling peak. Tapovan is a very pleasant spot with a large meadow complete with bubbling streams, wildflowers and campsites. Herds of Bharal (blue mountain goats) are a common sight from here on mountain ridges. On the far side of the glacier, Bhagirathi I, II, III provide an equally impressive backdrop. It is also the little wonder where Sadhus and saints choose this spot for extended meditation during the long summer month. Dinner and overnight stay in camp.