Trek with Local

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Hit Enter to search or Esc key to close

gaumukh glacier

Duration

4 Days/ 3 Nights

Trek Difficulty

Easy

Starting Point

Gangotri

Altitude

3900mts

Price

Rs.5600/-

Best Time to Visit

May to October

Gaumukh Glacier INFOMATION

The Gaumukh Glacier, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, is one of the primary sources of the sacred Ganges River. Here’s some information about the Gaumukh Glacier:

Location:
  • Situated in the Gangotri Glacier region of the Garhwal Himalayas.
  • Located approximately 20 kilometers upstream from the town of Gangotri, the glacier is accessed via a trekking route from Gangotri.
Size and Formation:
  • Extends over an area of about 30 square kilometers.
  • Originates from the Chaukhamba massif, with peaks such as Shivling and Bhagirathi dominating the landscape.
  • The glacier is formed from the accumulation and compaction of snow over thousands of years.
Appearance:
  • Named Gaumukh (“Cow’s Mouth”) due to its shape resembling the mouth of a cow.
  • The glacier terminus presents a striking ice cave resembling a cow’s mouth, from which the Bhagirathi River emerges.
  • Surrounded by towering peaks and rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape.
Importance:
  • Considered one of the holiest sites for Hindus, as it is believed to be the source of the Ganges River.
  • Draws pilgrims and trekkers from around the world who seek spiritual solace and adventure amidst the Himalayas.
  • Plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Ganges, sustaining millions of people downstream who rely on the river for irrigation, drinking water, and spiritual practices.
Trekking:
  • Trekkers often embark on a journey from Gangotri to Gaumukh, covering a distance of approximately 20 kilometers one way.
  • The trek offers stunning views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
  • It is a moderately challenging trek, with varying terrain and altitude gain, requiring proper preparation and acclimatization.
Conservation:
  • The glacier, like many others in the Himalayas, is experiencing retreat due to climate change and global warming.
  • Conservation efforts are underway to monitor the glacier’s health and mitigate the impact of environmental changes on the fragile ecosystem.
  • Awareness campaigns and sustainable tourism practices are being promoted to preserve the pristine beauty and ecological balance of the region.
Conclusion:

The Gaumukh Glacier stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Himalayas and holds immense cultural, ecological, and spiritual significance. As a symbol of purity and renewal, it continues to captivate and inspire all who venture into its majestic domain.

    BOOK NOW

    Why Choose Us?

    TREK GALLERY

    WHY CHOOSE THIS TREK?

    key points for why you choose gaumukh glacier trek

    1. Spiritual Significance: Origin of the sacred Ganges River, revered by Hindus.
    2. Natural Beauty: Stunning Himalayan peaks, ice caves, and glacier-fed streams.
    3. Adventure & Exploration: Trekking through rugged terrain with panoramic views.
    4. Cultural Experience: Rich heritage, mythology, and encounters with local communities.
    5. Environmental Awareness: Witnessing climate change effects and promoting sustainable tourism.
    6. Personal Growth: Spiritual renewal, physical challenge, and reflection amidst nature's wonders.

    FAQ's

    The trek to Gomukh Glacier can be Easy, as it involves walking on uneven terrain, dealing with high altitude, and enduring long hours of hiking. It requires a good level of physical fitness and stamina.

    It is a 4 Days and 3 Nights Trek starting from Gangorti to Gangotri.

    Gomukh Glacier is famous for being the source of the sacred Bhagirathi River, a tributary of the Ganges, and for its spiritual significance to Hindu pilgrims.

    You can keep extra luggage in the base village for any particular trek. There are no cloak roo charges applicable. Its free of cost.

    If you are going on a trek don’t expect mobile signals. There are few spots on the trails of few treks where you might find a single tower or something but it always depends if that is enough to make a call or not.

    We use portable toilet tents for sanitation needs, as permanent structures may not available. These are dry toilets, so please bring wet wipes or tissue paper for personal hygiene.

    For this trek you just need a day bag to carry during the trek, extra luggage can be left behind at the camp site. Proper bedded swiss tents are available on this trek.

    Start running/walking at least 3-4 Kms everyday.

    If it’s a snow trek a good trekking shoe is mandatory. If you buy a new shoe do walk for few days so that it fits you well and doesn’t leave you with blisters while you trek. If it is a summer trek or post monsoon trek a shoe with good grip and ankle support will do

    It’s a strict no. If you fall sick during the trek due to alcohol consumption H2H has the right to cancel your trek and send you back to base village. No expenses shall be refunded in that case and you will have to pay additional for stay at base village.

    itinerary

    Departure:

    Start your journey from Dehradun, a vibrant city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas.

    Scenic Drive:

    Enjoy a picturesque drive along the winding roads that lead towards Harshil Mukhba, passing through charming villages and lush green valleys.

    En Route Attractions:

    Take in the mesmerizing views of the Bhagirathi River and the surrounding pine forests as you ascend towards higher altitudes.

    Arrival at Harshil Mukhba:

    Reach the quaint village of Harshil Mukhba, renowned for its tranquility and breathtaking mountain vistas.

    Accommodation:

    Check into your accommodation and unwind amidst the serene ambiance of the Himalayan foothills.

    Trek Commencement:

    Begin your trek from Gangotri, the spiritual town that marks the starting point of the trekking route.

    Scenic Trail:

    Trek through the lush greenery of the Gangotri National Park, catching glimpses of diverse flora and fauna along the way.

    Chirbasa:

    Reach Chirbasa, a scenic hamlet nestled amidst dense forests and alpine meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

    Bhojwasa:

    Continue your trek to Bhojwasa, a tranquil campsite situated at the base of the majestic Bhagirathi peaks, where you'll spend the night under the starry skies.

    Gaumukh Excursion:

    Embark on an exhilarating trek to Gaumukh, the snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the source of the sacred River Ganges.

    Glacial Exploration:

    Marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier, with its towering ice walls and crystal-clear meltwater streams.

    Spiritual Experience:

    Take a moment to soak in the spiritual ambiance of Gaumukh, a place revered by pilgrims for its sacred significance.

    Return Journey:

    Trek back to Bhojwasa or Gangotri, retracing your steps through the breathtaking landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas.

    Homeward Bound:

    Bid farewell to the enchanting mountains of Gangotri as you begin your journey back to Dehradun.

    Reflection:

    Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories you've gathered during your trekking expedition.

    Scenic Drive:

    Enjoy one last scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of Uttarakhand, with views of cascading waterfalls and verdant valleys.

    Conclusion:

    Arrive in Dehradun, concluding your adventurous journey through the heart of the Himalayas with a sense of fulfillment and gratitude.

    packing list

    To ensure a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience with TrekwithLocal, make sure you have the following documents ready. These documents are required by both TrekwithLocal and the forest department, and without them, you will not be permitted to trek.

    1.Government Photo Identity Card: 

    Carry the original and a photocopy of a government- issued photo identity card. This can include a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport. The forest department requires this for identification purposes.

    2. Disclaimer Certificate: 

    The disclaimer certificate consists of two sections: •Personal Medical Record if anyDuring registration at the base camp, hand it over to your Trek Leader.

    Pro Tips:

    Safeguard your important documents by placing them in a clear plastic cover and sliding them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This precaution prevents them from getting wet and ensures their safety throughout the trek.

    Having these documents in order ensures a smooth check-in process and allows you to focus on the adventure that lies ahead. Trek safely and enjoy your journey with TrekwithLocal!

    Before making any gear purchases, consider inquiring at TrekwithLocal for custom-made, high- quality gear available at just 5% of the buying cost. Rent trekking essentials like shoes, backpacks, padded jackets, trekking poles, rainwear, and headlamps for less than Rs 1400 for the entire duration of your trek.

      • Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you need for your trek:
    1. Shoes and Backpack:
      • Trekking shoes with ankle support
      • Backpack with rain cover
      • Daypack for the summit day (10-15 L)
    2. Warm Layers and Clothes:

    Spring, Summer, and Monsoon Treks

      •  (3 layers):
      • 1 woollen sweater
      • 1 fleece
      • 1 padded jacket
    • Autumn Treks:
      •  (4 layers):
      • 1 woollen sweater
      • 2 fleeces
      • 1 padded jacket
    • Winter Treks 
      • (5 layers):
      • 1 pair of thermals
      • 1 woollen sweater
      • 2 fleeces
      • 1 padded jacket
    3. 3 collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
    4. 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
    5. Accessories:
      • Sunglasses
      • Sun cap with flaps
      • Waterproof gloves
      • Balaclava
      • Socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
      • Headlamp
      • Trekking pole
      • Rain jacket + pants / poncho
    6. Toiletries:
      • Sunscreen
      • Moisturiser
      • Light towel
      • Lip balm or Vaseline
      • Toilet paper
      • Toothbrush
      • Toothpaste
      • Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
    7. Cutlery:
      • Steel lunch box, spoon, and mug
      • Two water bottles or Hydration Pack
    **Our top tip: Keep your backpack light. TrekwithLocal promotes low-impact sustainable trekking, and carrying your own backpack reduces your impact on the mountains by 20%. We encourage all trekkers to carry their own backpacks unless they have a justifiable reason not to. Trek responsibly and enjoy your adventure!

    Ensure you carry these medicines with you, easily accessible always. Remember not to take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.

    1. Diamox (1 Strip): An essential part of Live Saving Drugs, Diamox helps reduce the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness on the trek.
    2. Dolo 650 (5 tablets): A paracetamol that tackles fever and mild pain.
    3. Avomine (4 tablets): If you are prone to motion sickness, carry Avomine. Take one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
    4. Combiflam (5 tablets): Useful for sudden twists or muscle strains. Combiflam is a pain reliever containing paracetamol.
    5. Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food, you’ve consumed is undigested. Alert your trek leader immediately, as it could be a sign of AMS.
    6. ORS (6 packs): Consume an ORS pack at least once a day, usually mid-day during your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
    7. Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.

    Our trek leaders carry a high-altitude medical kit, including Life Saving Drugs, and are trained to handle emergencies. Contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines.

    terms & conditions

    • Carry valid id card i.e. Aadhar Card/Passport/Driving Licence.
    • Modification or Amendment is accepted in compliance with the cancellation policy. Any changes in tax must be paid by the guest.
    • Any changes in tax must be paid by the guest.
    • Trekwithlocal reserves the right to cancel the booking if the balance amount is not paid at the time of arrival.
    • Guaranteed bookings are those for which the full and final payments have been received before start of Trek.
    • 30% of the payment must be done at the time of booking.
    • The remaining 70% of the payment must be cleared before arrival as it is required to arrange stay, food, and other equipment for the trek.
    • Full payment must be made in advance to confirm bookings and can be done in Cash/UPI/Bank account only.
    • Personal cheques and post-dated cheques are not acceptable.
    • Payments can be deposited using bank details, online payment, Gpay, Phonepe, Paytm.
    • A scan or fax copy of the bank-stamped deposit Pay-in slip or a screenshot of the transaction is required for online transfers.
    Number of Days prior to TrekCancellation Charges applicable
    30 Days before10%
    8-29 Days before30%
    7 Days before/ No showNo refund

    Note: – Contact us in case of change of dates/trek

    include/exclude

    • Accommodation: – Stay is included on all days of the trek. In tents/guest house double/triple sharing only. Guesthouse stay will be at base of Trek and on other days you will be staying in tents.

    • Meals: – Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian.
    • DayMeal included
      Day-1 of base camp arrivalDinner & Breakfast next morning
      Next Days on TrekBreakfast, Packed lunch & Dinner
      Final Day at Base camp for DepartureDinner & Breakfast next morning
    • Non-veg meals are not served.
    • Trek Equipment: – All the trek equipment will be included like a sleeping bag, Camping Tent, kitchen tent, utensils, mattress, tent, toilet tent, and crampon (if needed).
    • Transportation: – Transportation charges are included if opted for.
    • First aid medical kits.
    • All the needed forest entry fees along with permits.
    • Your trek will be led by a trained, experienced professional guides and trek leaders with a solid guiding background, trekking experience, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking terrains.
    • All kinds of personal expenditures are excluded.
    • Anything that we have not mentioned above.
    • The trek cost is not inclusive of meals bought during the journey on 1st day and last day. (Food starts from dinner at base camp on day first till last day morning breakfast).
    • Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage.
    • Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.

    map

    Trek Fee
    Rs-5600/-