What to Know Before Trekking in India's Har Ki Dun Valley

[Rishikesh Tourism India]

Har Ki Dun is a cradle-shaped valley that surmounts heavily wooded forests in the southeast and dwells in the southeast of Janundhar glacier. Elevated to an altitude of 3566m in the heart of Govind Ballabh Pant National Park, it offers a spectacular view of the untouched valley in the off-beaten landscapes of Garhwal Himalayas. One of the most ravishing valleys in the western Himalayas, Har Ki Dun valley is rich in abundant flora and fauna, especially because of dense alpine vegetation and snow-covered peaks in the background. It is also one of the most beautiful trekking destinations in northern India. Every avid trekker must look for a Har Ki Dun trekking package at least once in their life but before they do so, here’s what they need to know.

How to Reach

The trek commences from Dehradun; hence, travelers are first required to reach Dehradun via bus, train, or plane. The capital of Uttarakhand is well-connected with different parts of the country at the Jolly Grant Airport. Dehradun Railway Station also gets visits from enormous tourists from all corners of the nation. Reaching via roadways is also very convenient as several private and state-owned buses run between New Delhi and Dehradun. Travelers choose the mode of transport as per their convenience, time, and budget. Then from Dehradun, it’s a short drive up to Sankri from where the actual trek commences.

Base Camp

The picturesque village of Sankri is the base camp of this exhilarating expedition. It’s the last village that falls on the trekking trail and dwells 13Kms inside the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary. Trekkers and travelers can also find a few government-run and private hotels and guest houses in this village. It’s a campsite that has amazing grounds for camping and bonfire experience.

Difficulty Level

The difficulty level of the trek is moderate; thus, first-timers aren’t recommended to go for it as it encompasses strenuous trek gradients. Also, spending around 8-10days in the wilderness isn’t what budding trekkers expect from hiking. The meadows, forest trails, ridges, climate, and height are some other factors making it a tough and rough jaunt.

Permissions and Permits

Before you go for the trek, remember you will be asked to present different permits at certain checkpoints en route. Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) grants these permits and permissions so the excursion can go smooth. Although it takes one day to get the permit, upon having it, travelers can explore reserved regions where common people are prohibited. All these permits are arranged by the trekking companies if any, and all the costs are included in the package. Aside from that, trekkers must carry the ID, medical proof, and passport (in case of non-Indian trekkers).

The Best Season

The best season for Har Ki Dun trek totally depends on the preference of each trekker. Some might want to explore the natural beauty when it’s clear as crystal during spring and others might be looking for a challenging expedition into the deep snow during January and February. So, there is no one ideal season for this trek.

Having read that, now you are all set for a trekking excursion in the Garhwal Himalayas. Not to mention, it’s going to be one of the most memorable adventurous journeys of your life amidst the lush green valleys and snow-clad surroundings.