Cradle of Gods in the Himalayas
XploreTheDreams presents the legendary Har Ki Dun Trek – a 7-day moderate journey through ancient villages, dense pine forests, and alpine meadows to the mythical “Valley of Gods” at 12,000 ft. Known as the cradle-shaped valley, it is steeped in Mahabharata lore and offers stunning views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak.
The trail follows the pristine Tons River through the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, passing remote hamlets like Osla and Gangad with their 2,000-year-old wooden temples. This trek blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty in perfect harmony.
Journey Highlights
Starting from Sankari, the route winds along the river, crosses suspension bridges, and ascends gently through rhododendron and oak forests. Campsites are set beside gushing streams with panoramic mountain views. The summit day offers a spiritual experience at Har Ki Dun, believed to be the path Pandavas took to heaven.
Who Can Do This Trek?
Har Ki Dun is a moderate-level trek covering 13 km one way over 7 days. It is ideal for fit beginners and experienced trekkers. Key challenges include:
- Long trekking days (7–8 hours on summit days)
- Steady ascents through forested trails
- Cold nights in winter (Nov–Mar)
With good fitness and preparation, anyone can complete this rewarding journey.
What Makes Har Ki Dun Special?
1. Mythical Valley of Gods
Har Ki Dun is revered in Hindu mythology as the route to Swargarohini – the stairway to heaven. The valley’s cradle shape and serene ambiance create a deeply spiritual experience.
2. Ancient Villages & Culture
Pass through Osla and Gangad – living museums with wooden architecture, traditional lifestyle, and ancient temples dedicated to Duryodhana. Interact with locals and witness Garhwali heritage untouched by time.
3. Pristine Tons River Trail
The entire trek follows the sparkling Tons River, one of the cleanest in Uttarakhand. Cross wooden bridges, camp by riverside meadows, and fall asleep to the sound of flowing water.
4. Snow-Capped Himalayan Panorama
Witness 360° views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Kalanag. In winter, the valley turns into a white wonderland; in summer, wildflowers bloom across green meadows.
5. Biodiversity & Serene Forests
Walk through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. Spot Himalayan wildlife like langurs, blue sheep, and rare birds. The Govind Wildlife Sanctuary adds to the ecological richness.
6. Magical Campsites
Stay at scenic camps like Chilurgad (riverside) and Har Ki Dun Camp (meadow under Swargarohini). Starlit skies, bonfires, and mountain silence make every night unforgettable.
Every moment of the Har Ki Dun Trek – from ancient villages to mythical peaks, flowing rivers to serene forests – weaves a story of adventure and peace. Whether you seek spirituality, culture, or nature, XploreTheDreams ensures this journey becomes a memory for a lifetime.
Har Ki Dun Trek Itinerary
Scenic 8–9 hours drive.
Pass through picturesque villages.
Check-in and dinner at Sankri hotel.
Drive to Taluka, then trek to Chilurgad.
Enjoy the ever-flowing Tons River views.
Reach campsite, relax, and explore.
Evening walk, snacks, and dinner at camp.
Trek to Har ki Dun Camp (13 km, 7–8 hours).
Lunch at the campsite, rest, and evening activities.
Early trek to Har ki Dun and Jaundhar Glacier.
Return to camp by evening for dinner and rest.
Trek back to Chilurgad (13 km, 7–8 hours).
Riverside camping in the valley.
Evening walk, snacks, and dinner at camp.
Trek to Taluka, then drive to Sankri.
Rest in Sankri hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Breakfast and departure for Dehradun.
Arrival in Dehradun by 6:00 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can leave extra luggage at the Sankri hotel on Day 1 & 6. Do not leave valuables. A small fee may apply for storage.
Network is available only in Sankri. From Taluka onwards (Day 2 to Day 6), there is no mobile connectivity. Inform family beforehand.
No ATMs in Sankri or Taluka. The last reliable ATM is in Purola or Dehradun. Carry sufficient cash for personal expenses.
Dry pit toilets are available at campsites (Chilurgad & Har Ki Dun). Basic but clean. Carry personal toiletries, tissues, and sanitizer.
Total trekking distance: ~26 km (13 km one way). Spread over 4 trekking days (Day 2, 3, 5, 6). Max 7–8 hours per day.
Har Ki Dun campsite is at 11,800 ft. The highest point during exploration (Jaundhar Glacier) reaches ~12,000 ft.
Yes! It’s graded **Easy to Moderate**. Ideal for first-timers with decent fitness. Gradual ascent and well-marked trails.
Yes, mule/porter services are available at Taluka for backpack offloading. Charges: ₹300–500 per bag (10 kg max). Book in advance.
In the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. Known as the “Valley of Gods” in Hindu mythology.
Yes! It’s a stunning winter trek (Dec–Mar) with snow-covered trails. Microspikes & gaiters are provided. Temperatures drop to -5°C at night.
220 km scenic drive (8–9 hours) via Mussoorie, Damta, and Purola. XTD provides transportation (Dehradun to Dehradun package).
Not allowed inside Govind National Park. Drone flying requires special permission from forest authorities. Not recommended.
Vegetarian meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner. Hot meals at camps. Jain food available on request.
No electricity at Chilurgad or Har Ki Dun camps. Charging available only in Sankri hotel (Day 1 & 6). Carry power banks.
Har Ki Dun Trek Cost Details
- Transportation Dehradun–Dehradun
- Veg Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks, Dinner
- Equipment: Tents, Sleeping Bags, Sleeping Matts
- Gears: Snow Grips/Micro Spikes, Gaiters
- Hotel/Guest House on Day 1 & 6
- Experienced Trek Leader, Guides, Supportive Staff
- Forest Permits
- Medical Amenities: First Aid, Oximeters, Oxygen Cylinders
- Sanitised Campsites and Hotels
- Anything not in the inclusion list
- Meals during transportation
- Personal expenses
- Unscheduled/extended stay due to roadblocks, landslides
- Porter/mule charges (personal), Backpack offloading charges
- Cost of evacuation in case of emergency
Adventure and memories await, but these items are on you!
Har Ki Dun Trek Location
Winter Trek Essentials & Rental Gear
- Rucksack/Backpack
- Trekking Poles
- First Aid Kit
- Rain Gear (Upper & Lower)
- Camping Slippers
- Sun Cap
- Thermals (Upper & Lower)
- T-Shirts
- Fleece Jacket
- Water Bottle
- Sunscreen
- Lip Balm
- Personal Toiletries
- Cameras/GoPro
- Power Bank
- Sanitizer
- Valid ID
- Trekking Shoes: ₹500
- Headlamp: ₹100
- Sunglasses: ₹100
- Rain Cover: ₹100
- Woollen Cap: ₹150
- Buff: ₹100
- Jacket: ₹500
- Waterproof Gloves: ₹150
- Trek Pants: ₹250
- Socks: ₹100
- Water Bottle: ₹150
- Backpack: ₹500
Jacket
Shoes
Woollen Cap
Woollen Sock
Head Torch
Walking Pole
Poncho





