Har Ki Dun Trek

Har Ki Dun Trek

Uttarakhand
ModerateDifficulty
7 DaysDuration
3566 mMax Altitude
47 kmLength
SankriStarting Point

Har Ki Dun Trek: A Journey Through the Valley of Gods

The Har Ki Dun Trek is one of the most scenic treks in the Indian Himalayas, offering a mix of ancient culture, mythological relevance, and raw alpine beauty. Tucked deep inside Govind National Park, the trail leads you through charming villages, lush pine forests, alpine meadows, and finally to the beautiful cradle-shaped Har Ki Dun Valley. This is one of the few treks where you can witness traditional Himalayan life and mythology alive in practice.

A Trail Steeped in Mythology

Har Ki Dun translates to “Valley of Gods” and is believed to be the path taken by the Pandavas on their way to heaven. Local villages still perform rituals and festivals tied to Mahabharata legends, making this trek spiritually enriching.

Villages Frozen in Time

Villages like Osla and Gangad offer a unique window into untouched Himalayan culture. Ancient wooden temples, slow-paced life, and traditional architecture make these villages highlights of the trek.

A Photographer’s Paradise

Snow-capped peaks like Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpoonch constantly accompany you. Meadows, river crossings, and panoramic ridgelines make every step a frame-worthy scene.

Perfect for All Seasons

Spring blooms with rhododendrons, summer offers vibrant greens, autumn is golden, and winter wraps the valley in snow. Har Ki Dun is among the few treks enjoyable almost year-round.

Itinerary

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri | Distance: 200 km | Duration: 10 hours | Altitude: 6,400 ft
  • Scenic drive along the Yamuna and Tons rivers.
  • Overnight stay in guesthouse at Sankri.
Day 2: Sankri to Taluka and trek to Gangad | Distance: 12 km drive + 9 km trek | Duration: 5 hours | Altitude: 8,200 ft
  • Drive to Taluka, then trek through pine forests along Supin River.
  • Overnight stay in tents at Gangad village.
Day 3: Gangad to Kalkattiyadhaar | Distance: 8 km | Duration: 5 hours | Altitude: 9,800 ft
  • Cross Osla village and ascend through meadows and streams.
  • Camp with clear views of Swargarohini and other peaks.
Day 4: Kalkattiyadhaar to Har Ki Dun and back | Distance: 12 km | Duration: 7 hours | Altitude: 11,700 ft
  • Gradual climb to Har Ki Dun valley with magnificent views.
  • Explore and return to camp by evening.
Day 5: Kalkattiyadhaar to Gangad | Distance: 8 km | Duration: 4 hours | Altitude: 8,200 ft
  • Easy descent through forest and Osla village.
Day 6: Gangad to Taluka and drive to Sankri | Distance: 9 km trek + 12 km drive | Duration: 4 hours | Altitude: 6,400 ft
  • Return trek and drive back to base village.
Day 7: Sankri to Dehradun | Distance: 200 km | Duration: 10 hours | Altitude: 2,100 ft
  • End of trek and return to city life.
Main trek location
Starting point

Best Month to Visit

Nearest airportJolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest railwayDehradun Railway Station

Weather Forecast

Tuesday 2 Dec
Start point3° / 17°
Clear
17°
06:58
17:15
37%
Summit-4° / 6°
Cloudy
6°
06:58
17:14
38%
Hourly temperature (start vs summit)°C

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FAQs

Is Har Ki Dun trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s a good first Himalayan trek. The trail is well-graded and the camps are at manageable altitudes.

Is there snow on this trek?

Snow is found from late December to early March. Spring and post-monsoon are snow-free but colorful.

Do I need a guide or permit?

Yes, a local guide and forest permit are mandatory as it's inside a wildlife sanctuary.

What kind of wildlife can be seen?

The region is home to Himalayan monals, langurs, black bears, and sometimes musk deer. Sightings are rare but exciting.

Is mobile network available?

No signal after Sankri. Inform family and make all calls before starting the trek.

Are there tea houses on the route?

There are basic homestays in Osla and Gangad, but most treks are done with camping gear.

What peaks are visible?

Swargarohini I-IV, Black Peak (Kalanag), Hata Peak, and Bandarpoonch can be seen from various points.

Is it safe for solo trekkers?

Yes, with a local guide. Solo without support is not advised due to remoteness and wildlife zones.

How cold does it get at night?

Spring/autumn: 0–5°C. Winter: -5°C or lower. Proper layering is essential.

What’s unique about Har Ki Dun?

Its combination of mythology, culture, and varied scenery — plus being one of the few all-season treks — makes it special.

Mountain trail
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Essential Trekking Guidelines to Follow

Obtain Required Permits

Many trekking destinations require official permits from local authorities. Apply early to avoid fines or being denied entry.

Respect Nature and Wildlife

Follow Leave No Trace. No littering or off-trail wandering. Keep noise low and avoid disturbing animals.

Travel with a Guide when Required

Certain high-altitude or border zones mandate certified guides for safety and regulations. Check rules before planning.

Camp Only at Designated Sites

Unauthorized camping or bonfires can damage ecosystems and violate laws. Use approved campsites for safety.

Respect Local Culture

Seek permission before photographing villagers or holy places. Dress modestly and engage respectfully with locals.

Follow Weather and Safety Advisories

If authorities halt a trek due to weather or hazards, comply without argument. These alerts protect lives.

Stay Within Allowed Zones

Border-close trails often have restricted limits. Do not cross protected boundaries without permissions.

Stick to Group Instructions

When trekking with a group, follow the leader’s pace and timing. Avoid moving alone or straying off track.