Information about Har ki Dun

Har Ki Dun is a valley of unparalleled beauty in the western part of the Garhwal Himalayas. It is famously known as the "Valley of Gods" because it offers a breathtaking view of snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows. The trek to Har ki dun starts at Sankri, nearly a 10-hour drive from Dehradun. The trek passes through ancient villages and rhododendron and oak forests, making it a truly enchanting experience.

The highlight of the Har Ki Dun trek is that it allows one to see unique flora and fauna. In this valley, one can find many rare animals like Bharal (blue sheep), birds, and wildflowers. The captivating view of snow-capped peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag makes it a popular tourist trekking destination.

One can indulge in plenty of activities while on the Har Ki Dun trek. One can go fishing in the nearby streams, explore the local flora and fauna on a nature walk, or play adventure sports like rock climbing and rappelling. There are cultural activities in which tourists can take part, such as visiting ancient temples and traditional villages. For a more spiritual experience, there are meditation and yoga centres in the area.

Location of 'Har ki Dun'

Har ki Dun is in the western part of the Garhwal Himalayas, in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It lies between a range of snow-capped peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch at an altitude of 3,566 meters above sea level.

'Har ki Dun' Trek Guide

• It is advised to stay well hydrated and carry enough water on your trek.
• Carry a light backpack with essential items only.
• Make sure you wear suitable trekking shoes and clothing for the cold weather.
• Carry a first aid kit in case of any medical emergency.
• Try not to step off the marked trails, and always follow your guide's instructions.
• Enquire about the best time to visit the trek and plan your itinerary accordingly.
• Carry an extra pair of clothes, warm clothing, sunscreen lotion, a torch, and ready-to-eat food items like energy bars, nuts, etc.
• Keep yourself informed about the weather conditions at your destination and avoid trekking in bad weather.
• Carry a power bank and keep your phone charged during the trek.
• Stay away from loud music and disturbing other trekkers.
• Do not litter on the trails and carry back any non-biodegradable waste.

Places to visit in Har ki Dun

• Osla Village: Osla is a picturesque village in the Har Ki Dun valley. It serves as the base camp for trekkers and adventurers heading towards Har Ki Dun pass. The village offers breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, clear streams, and lush green meadows.
• Sankri: Sankri is a small village in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is the starting point for many treks, including the Har Ki Dun pass. There are plenty of opportunities for adventure activities such as rafting, trekking, and rock climbing near Sankri.
• Taluka Village: Situated near the Har Ki Dun pass, Taluka village is a small but beautiful hamlet in the western Himalayas. This village serves as a base camp for trekkers and adventurers heading to Har Ki Dun pass.
• Har Ki Dun Pass: Located at 3,800 meters, Har Ki Dun pass is one of the most popular trekking routes in the western Himalayas. It offers stunning views of majestic snow-covered peaks, lush green meadows, and pristine rivers.
• Govind National Park: Govind National Park is in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. This park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and birds.

Activities to do in Har ki Dun

• Trekking: The valley has a variety of trekking trails, ranging from easy to moderate ones suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers. The most popular trek is the Har Ki Dun Valley Trek, which starts at Sankri village and passes through enchanting alpine meadows, ancient forests, hidden waterfalls, and Himalayan glaciers.
• Camping: It offers basic and luxury campsites where one can set up tents. The campsites offer breathtaking views of the mountains, lush green meadows, and snow-covered peaks. One can also enjoy activities like nature walks, bird-watching, and rock climbing in these campsites.
• Village Tourism: In the Har ki Dun valley, one can explore different villages and get acquainted with their lifestyle, customs, and rituals. The most popular destinations include Osla, Seema, and Kalkatti.
• Bird Watching: The area has a wide variety of species, including common ones like the Great Tit, Grey Wagtail, and Red-breasted Flycatcher, as well as rare ones like the Himalayan Monal and Lammergeier.

Highlights of 'Har ki Dun'

The mystical beauty of Har Ki Dun in the Garhwal Himalayas is unparalleled. The valley is a paradise for trekkers with its lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains. This moderate-grade trek offers breathtaking views of some of India's highest peaks, including Swargarohini Peak, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag.

The trek passes through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron and stunning alpine meadows with spectacular views of snow-covered peaks. Along the way, travellers also visit small villages like Seema and Ruinsara Tal, where they can experience Garhwal's local culture and customs.

Weather in 'Har ki Dun'

The weather in the valley can vary greatly, depending on the time of year and altitude. In summer, temperatures range from cool to mild during the day and dip down too cold at night. During winter, temperatures can get quite low, with snowfall common from November through March.

Although it can get cold during winter, snowfall rarely interferes with trekking routes. The days are usually sunny, with cloud cover in the late afternoon and evenings. The average temperature ranges from 6–15 degrees Celsius (43–59 Fahrenheit).

Interesting facts about 'Har ki Dun'

• Har Ki Dun is situated at an altitude of 11,800 feet above sea level and is one of India's most beautiful trekking destinations.
• It has been popularised by many Bollywood movies over the years, including 3 Idiots and Jab Tak Hai Jaan.
• The region is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, barking deer, musk deer, serow, and black bears.
• Har Ki Dun is also considered the gateway to Garhwal Himalayas and is home to several high-altitude lakes, including Ruinsara Tal.
• It is also an important pilgrimage site for Hindus as it is believed that Pandavas from Mahabharata visited this place during their journey to heaven.

Mythology related to 'Har ki Dun'

According to Hindu mythology, it is believed to be a mythical land visited by the Pandavas from Mahabharata during their exile. The story goes that Arjun and his brothers came here searching for peace and relaxation. They were amazed at the beauty of this valley, with its high peaks and green meadows. The Pandavas stayed here for some days and made many friends in the mountains.

It is said that during their stay in Har ki Dun, they prayed to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who blessed them with spiritual knowledge, strength, and courage to fight against the Kauravas in the great battle of Mahabharata.

Another story related to Har ki Dun is that it was one of the locations on Yudhishthira's Ashwamedha yagya. This yagya was done by Pandavas to prove their supremacy and strength.

History of 'Har ki Dun'

It was first discovered by British surveyors in 1884 during the Great Trigonometric Survey of India. The area has since become popular for its untouched natural beauty and is now a part of the Govind National Park.

For centuries, the mountain has been revered by locals as a sacred place. The name comes from two Kumaoni words, "Har," which means "snow," and "Dun," which means a deep valley. The area offers some of the most spectacular views in India, with snow-capped Himalayan peaks, green valleys and meadows, clear rivers, and pristine forests.

How to reach 'Har ki Dun'

Har ki Dun, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, can be reached by various means of transportation. The closest airport to Har Ki Dun is Jolly Grant Airport, located in Dehradun, about 224 km away.

One can also take a direct bus from Dehradun to Sankri, the nearest village to Har Ki Dun. The journey by road takes around 8–10 hours, depending on the traffic.

Alternatively, you can hire a taxi from Dehradun or Mussoorie to reach Har Ki Dun. It will take around 6–7 hours, depending on the traffic.

Another option is to take a train to Dehradun and then take a bus or taxi. This will take around 8-9 hours, depending on train timings and traffic.

Once you reach Sankri, you can hire a local jeep or car to reach the Har Ki Dun campsite, which will take around 4–5 hours. It is advisable to start early in the morning from Sankri.

Where/What to Eat in Har ki Dun

The most popular eateries near Har ki Dun include cafes, restaurants, dhabas (street-side eateries), small local shops, and tea stalls. Most of these restaurants and cafes serve traditional Indian cuisine, including dishes made with local ingredients. Some restaurants offer western-style food.

Local delicacies include the Garhwali Thali (a platter of traditional dishes), Bhatt Ki Churkani (flour dumplings smothered in yoghurt sauce), and Kaapa (a dish made with potatoes, spices, and yoghurt).

When travelling to Har ki Dun, it is also recommended to try the local tea stalls for a cup of herbal chai or masala chai. These tea stalls offer steaming hot cups of traditional Indian chai flavoured with saffron, ginger, cardamom, and other spices.

Information about the 'Har ki Dun' trek

The Har Ki Dun trek is a moderate difficulty level trek that lasts for 5 days. It begins at Sankri village in Uttarakhand, with the first day of the trek being an acclimatisation day. The trek then moves onto Taluka, Ruinsara Taal, Kalkatiyadhar, Har Ki Dun, and Osla before returning to Sankri.

The trek is a combination of easy ascent with some steep sections at times and provides a scenic view throughout. The trek also passes through ancient villages like Kalu, Seema, and Osla, which offer a fine insight into the traditional culture of the Garhwal region.

The trek culminates at the summit of Har ki Dun valley, also known as the 'Valley of Gods'. The view from this point and the descent are spectacular. It is said that one can catch sight of many snow-clad peaks, including Swargarohini I, II, and III (the mythological route to heaven) from here.

Where to stay in 'Har ki Dun'

Har ki Dun is a popular trekking destination, and several accommodation options cater to various budgets.

For luxury travellers, Camp Har-ki-dun by Himalayan Eco Lodges offers stunning views in an idyllic setting, with gourmet cuisine and comfortable rooms. The Snow View Hotel and Himalayan Resort are also great options for luxury travellers.

For budget travellers, there are various camping sites available in the area, as well as homestays and hostels. Popular budget accommodation options include the Base Camp Café & Homestay, which offers basic private rooms and dorms; The View Point Hotel, which offers basic rooms and dorms; and the GMVN Tourist Bungalow, a government-run guest house with rooms for budget travellers.

However, if you are trekking independently without an organised tour or guide, it is best to stay in homestays run by local families, as these offer great insight into the local culture and hospitality.

Why Har ki Dun is a must-visit?

Har ki Dun is one of the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand. It offers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas and stunning meadows, perfect trekking and camping opportunities. The area is also home to some rare species of flora and fauna, making it a great place for nature lovers. Har ki Dun is also known for its spiritual significance, as it has been a popular pilgrimage spot for centuries. The area is renowned for its ancient temples and shrines, which still attract visitors worldwide.

Apart from trekking and camping, Har ki Dun is an ideal place for bird watching with its wide variety of migratory and local birds. The stunning snow-capped mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, crystal clear streams, and lush green meadows make it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

In all, Har ki Dun is a must-visit destination.

Travel tips for 'Har ki Dun'

• Carry a good pair of trekking shoes: Trekking in the mountains can be challenging and requires comfortable footwear. Make sure to carry a good quality pair of trekking shoes that will provide the best grip and support on uneven terrain.
• Take enough water with you: As you will be walking through the mountains, it is important to stay hydrated. Make sure to take enough water with you on your journey and refill your bottles at regular intervals if needed.
• Carry First Aid Kit: Don't forget to pack a basic first aid kit which includes bandages, antiseptic cream, painkillers, etc. This will come in handy in case of any injuries or medical emergencies during the trek.
• Wear appropriate clothing: It is important to dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Make sure to carry light, breathable and layered clothing so that you can adjust according to the changing temperatures and weather.
• Have a good sleeping bag: A good quality sleeping bag is essential for a comfortable night's rest during the trek. Make sure to invest in a good sleeping bag that keeps you warm and cosy when temperatures dip at night.
• Carry a torch: A torch is a must-have item while trekking in the mountains. It is important to carry one with you to light your way while trekking in the dark hours.
• Pack snacks: Don't forget to pack some energy bars, dry fruits, and other snacks that will help to refuel you during the trek. It is also a good idea to carry chocolates or candies for an instant energy boost.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to hike Har Ki Dun Valley?

   The best time to trek to Har Ki Dun Valley is between April and October, as the weather during these months is pleasant and perfect for a leisurely walk in this beautiful valley.

2. How strenuous is the trek?

   Har Ki Dun Valley is a moderate trek, ideal for beginner-level trekkers. Although the trek can get slightly strenuous at times, it is still considered easy compared to other Himalayan treks.

3. How long does the trek take?

   The trek usually takes around 5–6 days to complete, depending on your pace and the weather conditions.

4. What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

   During the trek, you can stay in tents or homestays as accommodation facilities are limited. In some parts of the valley, campsites have also been set up.

5. What kind of food is available during the trek?

   You can get a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Snacks, such as momos, noodles, etc., can be bought at certain points during the trek.