Easy to Moderate
Har ki Dun trek
A beautiful Himalayan valley trek in Uttarakhand, known for its ancient villages, dense forests, alpine meadows, rivers, waterfalls, and impressive mountain scenery.
Days
7 Days
Adventure Type
Trekking
Base Camp
Sankri
Season
Summer | Autumn
Month
April | May | June | September | October | November
Country
India
Altitude
12000 Ft.
Grade
Easy to Moderate
Rail Head
Dehradun
Stay
Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse (Separate male & Female)
Food
Veg meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse
Location
Uttarakhand
Distance
43 Km.
Trail Type
Point to point trail | Camping at the same location upon returning.
AirPort
Jolly Grant Airport, which is 28 km away from Dehradun
At an altitude of 11,700ft, the Har ki Dun trek is in all senses, a gateway to heaven. A snow-specked paradise for winter fanatics on one hand and adorned by alpine meadows, and pine forests for all those who seek solace in the embrace of nature on the other, it is a paradise for trekkers, be it beginners or experienced ones. Nestled on the western edge of Garhwal in Uttarkashi district, the Har ki Dun trek isn’t just a trek consisting of picturesque views but also has rich cultural and mythological significance.
Many locals believe that the land belongs to none other than Duryodhana from the epic Mahabharata. The legend goes that a clan devoted to the Kauravas lived close to the village of Osla and built a temple to pay their respects to him. That temple exists even today. On the other hand, this trek is one of the oldest Himalayan trekking trails.
The name Har ki Dun translates to “Valley of Gods” signifying its other spiritual significance regarding the myth. It is believed that this was the route that was taken by the Pandavas on their ascend to heaven, which is why it earns its name as the stairway to heaven trek. It also provides a major source for the Yamuna River System.
The diverse flora and fauna that you get to spend time listening to is a magical experience in itself and camping by the flowing riverside, listening to the relentless streams of water gives you the kind of peace that makes you forget all about the hustling and bustling noises of metropolitan cities. The people, places, and the whole trail capture an insight into a different world as compared to what we’ve seen in our daily lives.
The trek provides a spectacular view of Swargrohini peaks, Bandarpoonch, as well as Black peak. The trail leads you to villages that have been here since 2000 years ago and meeting the locals gives you a glimpse into their lives. A perfect spot for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts as well as people who love to indulge in photography from time to time, the Har ki Dun trek is truly a blessing. Some of the best attractions of the Har ki Dun trek are the above-mentioned temple in the village of Osla, a 5000-year-old structure carved out from wood.
Har ki Dun trek is suitable for any beginner and proves to be exciting for even an experienced trekker. The Har ki Dun trek difficulty is rated from easy to moderate and provides a good overall experience. The best time to visit Har ki Dun is during the summer and post-monsoon season.
The Har ki Dun valley is famous for its orchids and especially rhododendrons, which are specially grown in this region. The flora and fauna mixed with rich culture and immense historical importance secure its position among top contenders in the list of best treks in Uttarakhand. Trek to Har ki Dun takes a total of 7 days and starts from a small village named Sankri situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.
Tax Benefit
+5% GST (goods and services tax)
Services
Sankari to Sankari.
Meeting Point
( Pickup/ Drop Point ):Prince Chowk, Dehradun
Reporting Time
6:00 am
Drop Time
6:30 pm to 7:30 pm (Timings are subject to change based on weather and road conditions).
Important
Please reach Dehradun a day before to avoid any delays.
Jaundhar Glacier
Osla Village
Govind Pashu Vihar
Sankri
Har Ki Dun Valley
Devsu Bugyal
Supin River
Traditional Homestay and Culture
01
DAY
Drive From Dehradun to Sankri | 190 Kms, 8–9 Hrs Drive
- The group will assemble at the designated pickup point near Dehradun Railway Station in the morning.
- We’ll begin our scenic drive towards Sankri, the base village for the Har Ki Dun Trek.
- The journey takes you through beautiful mountain roads, forests, river valleys and small Himalayan settlements.
- Upon reaching Sankri, we’ll check into our designated guesthouse. The rest of the evening is at leisure and trekkers are advised to rest and prepare for the next day.
- Dinner will be served in the evening, followed by an overnight stay in Sankri.
02
DAY
Drive From Sankri to Gangad & Trek to Osla | 20 Kms Drive, 4–5 Kms Trek
- After an early breakfast, we’ll drive from Sankri to Gangad, covering approximately 20 km through the beautiful mountain landscape.
- Upon reaching Gangad, we’ll begin our trek towards Osla Village.
- The trail takes us through forests, mountain streams and scenic sections of the valley, gradually leading towards this traditional Himalayan settlement.
- Osla is known for its distinctive wooden houses, terraced fields and traditional mountain lifestyle, giving trekkers an opportunity to experience the local culture.
- Upon reaching Osla, we’ll check into our designated homestay and spend the evening relaxing.
- Dinner will be served, followed by an overnight stay at Osla.
03
DAY
Trek From Osla to Kalkatidhar | 5–6 Kms Trek
- After breakfast, we’ll leave Osla Village and begin our trek towards Kalkatidhar.
- The trail gradually ascends through forested sections, open landscapes and beautiful Himalayan terrain.
- As we gain altitude, the valley begins to open up, offering impressive views of the surrounding mountains and distant snow-covered peaks.
- We’ll maintain a comfortable trekking pace, allowing enough time to enjoy the scenery and adjust to the increasing altitude.
- Upon reaching Kalkatidhar, we’ll settle into our alpine campsite and spend the evening surrounded by the peaceful Himalayan landscape.
- Dinner will be served, followed by an overnight stay at Kalkatidhar.
04
DAY
Trek From Kalkatidhar to Har Ki Dun & Marinda Tal, Return to Boslo | 10.5 Kms Trek
- We’ll start early after breakfast for one of the most important and scenic days of the Har Ki Dun Trek.
- The trail leads us towards the magnificent Har Ki Dun Valley, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan landscapes and towering mountain peaks.
- After reaching Har Ki Dun, we’ll spend some time exploring the valley and enjoying the spectacular surroundings.
- We’ll continue further towards Marinda Tal, a beautiful high-altitude location surrounded by rugged mountain terrain.
- After exploring the area, we’ll begin our return journey and trek towards Boslo.
- Upon reaching Boslo, we’ll settle into our campsite, followed by dinner and an overnight stay in alpine tents.
05
DAY
Trek From Boslo to Devsu Thatch | 5.1 Kms Trek
- After breakfast, we’ll leave our campsite at Boslo and begin the trek towards Devsu Thatch.
- Today’s trail is comparatively relaxed and allows trekkers to enjoy the natural beauty of the valley at a comfortable pace.
- The route takes us through beautiful forest sections and gradually opens into the scenic meadow landscapes around Devsu Thatch.
- Surrounded by mountains and peaceful Himalayan wilderness, Devsu Thatch provides a beautiful setting to unwind after the previous day’s long trek.
- Upon reaching the campsite, we’ll settle into our tents and spend the rest of the evening at leisure.
- Dinner will be served, followed by an overnight stay at Devsu Thatch.
06
DAY
Trek From Devsu Thatch to Gangad & Drive to Sankri | 7–8 Kms Trek, 20 Kms Drive
- After breakfast, we’ll begin our descent from Devsu Thatch towards Gangad.
- The trail takes us back through forests and beautiful sections of the valley as we gradually descend towards the roadhead.
- After trekking approximately 7–8 km, we’ll reach Gangad and conclude the trekking section of the day.
- From Gangad, we’ll board our vehicle and drive approximately 20 km back to Sankri.
- Upon reaching Sankri, we’ll check into our designated guesthouse and spend the evening relaxing after completing the trek.
- Dinner will be served, followed by an overnight stay in Sankri.
07
DAY
Drive From Sankri to Dehradun | 190 Kms, 8–9 Hrs Drive
- After breakfast, we’ll check out from our guesthouse and begin the return journey from Sankri to Dehradun.
- The drive takes us back through the scenic mountain roads, forests, river valleys and charming settlements of Uttarakhand.
- Enjoy the final views of the Himalayas as we gradually leave the mountains behind.
- We’ll reach Dehradun by evening, depending on road and traffic conditions.
- The Har Ki Dun Trek concludes at Dehradun with beautiful memories of the mountains and the journey.
One of the most common questions before any Himalayan trek is simple: what should you pack? A smart packing list keeps you comfortable on the trail without making your backpack unnecessarily heavy.
The easiest way to pack is to go step by step, either from head to toe or toe to head. That simple pattern helps you stay organized and lowers the chance of forgetting essentials.
01 Backpacks
Choose a backpack that feels comfortable on your shoulders and hips. For a week-long trek, a 60 to 70 liter backpack is usually enough for your clothing, gear, and personal essentials.
- Main backpack: Good hip support, shoulder support, and easy-access pockets.
- Daypack: Useful for short hikes, sightseeing, and carrying daily essentials when the main bag is not needed.
02 Footwear
- Trekking shoes: Prefer waterproof shoes with high-ankle support.
- Walking or hiking sandals: Great for camp use, resting your feet, or stream crossings.
- Sneakers: Optional, but useful for travel days or relaxed time around camp.
- Socks: Carry 3 to 5 pairs that are warm, comfortable, and quick-drying.
03 Clothing Layers
- Jacket: A good quality hiking or trekking jacket for layering.
- Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying trekking pants, plus a warm lower layer for colder nights.
- T-shirts and base layers: Carry 3 to 4 warm, comfortable tees along with a long-sleeve layer.
- Thermals and leggings: Two pairs of thermals and warm leggings are ideal for cold mornings and evenings.
- Undergarments: Pack according to your personal requirement.
- Buff or balaclava: Essential for protecting your neck and throat from wind and cold.
- Beanie cap and hiking hat: A beanie helps in cold weather, while a sun hat protects you during the day.
- Gloves: One warm pair is usually enough.
04 Rain Protection
- Raincoat and rain pants: Helpful in changing mountain weather.
- Rain poncho: A practical option during longer spells of rain.
- Rain covers: Carry waterproof covers for both your backpack and daypack, especially for gadgets.
05 Gadgets and Useful Extras
- Trekking poles, mobile phone, camera, and spare batteries.
- Power bank, lightweight flashlight or headlamp, and waterproof ziplock bags for electronics.
- Plug or converter, sunglasses, and a 1 liter water bottle.
- A journal and pen, a good book, and a map or guidebook if you enjoy documenting the journey
06 Hygiene and Toiletries
- Sunscreen with UV protection and lip balm or salve.
- Quick-drying towels, toilet paper, tissues, or wet wipes.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouth freshener, shampoo, deodorant, and talcum powder.
- Biodegradable soap, nail clipper, and any personal daily-use items.
- Sanitary pads or tampons if needed.
07 First Aid and Energy
Carry a personal first-aid kit with the basics you may commonly need on an adventure trip, and always consult your doctor before taking any medicine.
- Antiseptic wipes or water syringe, butterfly bandages, sterile gauze pads, and elastic bandages.
- Latex gloves, medicines for upset stomach, cold, flu, fever, headache, and basic pain relief.
- ORS sachets, pain relief spray, bug repellent, and any prescription medicines you already use.
- Medicine for high altitude concerns such as Diamox or a similar alternative, only after medical advice.
- Carry some energy bars and non-alcoholic energy drinks for quick support on the trail.
Important note: Check what gear can be rented or purchased through BookMyHikes and what you should bring from home. Keeping your backpack light makes the trek more comfortable and enjoyable.
Inclusions
- Accommodation:2 Nights in a Homestay in Sankri on a triple-sharing basis (with attached washroom and Geyser facility) and 4 Nights Tented Accommodation on a triple sharing basis.
- Transportation:Surface transfer from Dehradun – Sankri – Dehradun by Sumo / Bolero / Tempo Traveler (Depending on the number of travelers).
- Meals:All veg meals from Day 1st Dinner to Day 7th Day Breakfast.
- Snacks:Morning / Evening Tea / Coffee with light snacks and soup while on the trek.
- Camping logistics:Trekking tent, Sleeping bags, Mattresses, Dining tent, Kitchen tent and Toilet tent.
- Trek Leader:Qualified and Experienced Trek leader and support staff.
- Permits:All necessary fees and permits.(For Indians)
- Trekking Equipment:Gaiters, Micro Spikes, and Rope if required.
- Safety Equipment:Walkie / Talkie , Basic First Aid kit with Oximeter, Blood Pressure Monitor and Oxygen Cylinder.
- Guide ratio:Local experience guide ( depends on the group size).
- Others:Cloak Room facility available at base camp for extra luggage.
Exclusions
- Any expenses of personal nature.
- Meals during transit.
- Any insurance of any kind.
- Any fees and permits (for non-Indians).
- Unscheduled delay due to landslide.
- Cost Escalation due to “ Force Majeure and Evacuation charges”.
- Anything not mentioned explicitly in the above program.
Bag offloading cost: Bag offloading cost is Rs 1500 (maximum weight should not be more than 10 kg)
Life is unpredictable and we understand sometimes you have to cancel or change your trip dates and it is our endeavour to make it as easy possible for you. However, please understand we plan everything including guide fees, permits, accommodation and ration in advance. Therefore, any cancellation means inconvenience and certain losses to the people involved in various stages of programme. Keeping that in mind, our cancellation charges are as below :
Cancellation Timeline
-
30 days before the event Best cancellation window with the lowest deduction.Deduction 15% Lowest cutReturn 85% Monetary Refund Into original payment mode
-
15-30 days before trek start Moderate cancellation window before core ground arrangements intensify.Deduction 50% Mid-stage cutReturn 50% Cash Voucher Valid for 12 months
-
Less than 15 days before trek start Late cancellation window after trek operations are mostly aligned.Deduction 100% Higher cutReturn No refund
Voucher Rules
After applicable cancellation deductions, the remaining amount is refunded only in the form of a trek voucher. The voucher can be used for any trek, tour, or yatra booked with BookMyHikes.
The trek voucher is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
The voucher must be used for the same number of persons for whom it was issued.
The voucher cannot be redeemed as a cash refund and cannot be extended beyond its expiry date.
To redeem a voucher, email BookMyHikes 15 to 20 days before the new trip date.
What is the difficulty level of the Har Ki Dun Trek?
Har Ki Dun is generally considered an easy to moderate trek. The trail is not highly technical, but its multi-day duration requires good stamina and basic physical fitness.
What is the maximum altitude of the Har Ki Dun Trek?
The Har Ki Dun valley is situated at approximately 11,700 ft (3,566 m) above sea level.
What is the best time to do the Har Ki Dun Trek?
The most popular seasons are April to June and September to November. Spring and early summer offer greener landscapes, while autumn is known for clearer mountain views.
Is Har Ki Dun Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes. Fit beginners can undertake the trek with proper preparation. Since the itinerary involves several consecutive days of walking, some endurance training before the trek is recommended.
How many days are required for the Har Ki Dun Trek?
A typical Har Ki Dun itinerary takes around 6–8 days, depending on the route, starting point, and itinerary design.
What is Har Ki Dun Trek famous for?
Har Ki Dun is famous for its cradle-shaped valley, ancient Himalayan villages, forests, alpine landscapes, Swargarohini views, and local culture. It is particularly appealing to trekkers who want a combination of Himalayan scenery and traditional mountain life.
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