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Vehicle cost from Dehradun to Sankri for one side journey is 7500 for Tata Sumo (shared by 5-6 trekkers) & 10000 for tempo traveller (shared by 11-12 trekkers). The same needs to be paid on the spot.
₹9400 + 5% GST
Sankri to Sankri
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Har Ki Dun or the Valley of Gods is located in the Garhwal Himalayas of the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. At 3,500 M, Har Ki Dun is one of the most gorgeous river valley treks in the country. Diverse flora and fauna, larger than life landscapes, quaint villages tucked into the mountains and vast, expansive meadows leave you in awe throughout. The trek progresses alongside the splendid Supin River, crossing bridges across clear water streams running through scenic Garhwalian villages.
Read: Highlights of the Har Ki Dun Trek
The Har Ki Dun trail is famous for its changing scenery in each season. During summer and spring, pleasant temperatures grace the valley. Flowers are in full bloom and there is a delightful range of wildlife to spot. With the onset of winters, the valley experiences snowfall every couple of weeks transforming the lush green highlights into pristine whites.
The Har Ki Dun summit is a treat to behold. On a clear day, you can spot the snow-capped Swargarohini Peak, Hata Peak and Black Peak amongst others. This moderate level trek has various facets to take pleasure in, such as the alpine flowers, open meadows, dense coniferous forests and views of colossal mountain ranges making it a complete package.
Spanning over 67 km, the trek begins from the quaint village of Sankri in Uttarakhand. We will cover the journey till Taluka on a motorable road. The trek from Taluka till Pauni Garaat runs along the waters of the Supin River. You will be walking under a canopy of Walnut, Pine and Cedar trees opening up to vast fields of potato and maize on the way. The Pauni Garaat Campsite is a little farther ahead, situated in a lovely clearing on the banks of the Supin River.
The following day, the trek gradient is steeper as we head towards Kalkattiyadhaar located 8 km away. The trail runs through dense Oak forests and fertile Amaranth farms with the Supin River accompanying you throughout. Look out for sections that make up for some brilliant vantage points offering magnificent views of the Banderpoonch and Swargarohini ranges along the way. A four hour hike will bring you to the Kalkattiyadhaar campsite which is a vast open meadow cradled in a valley surrounded by pine and oak trees.
The next day, we will be ascending to the summit from the Kalkattiyadhaar campsite. Be prepared for an early start as we will need to cover 14 km. The trek gradient for the day is moderate with gradual ascents and descents. The trail climbs higher up through a thicket of forests before culminating in the grand Har Ki Dun summit. Spot the Swaragrohini peak, Hata Peak and Black Peak covered in snow from here.
Given its beauty and moderate difficulty level, this trek is ideal for beginners looking to step up their trekking game in the Himalayas.
Read: Har Ki Dun- Who is this Trek Meant for?
The best time to do Har Ki Dun Trek is from September till December. Stay on this page for more information like Har Ki Dun trek itinerary, route map, temperature chart, photos, videos, and reviews. Scroll to the end to read Har Ki Dun trek blogs.
Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (1950 m)
Distance covered: 197 km from Dehradun to Sankri
Duration: 9-10 hours to reach Sankri
The journey begins from the capital city of Dehradun. If you have opted for transportation by Bikat Adventures, please ensure you board your vehicle from ISBT Dehradun latest by 7 AM. If you are traveling on your own to Sankri, this article could come in handy in planning your trip.
Sankri is located at a distance of 197 km from Dehradun and would take about 9-10 hours to cover, gaining an altitude of 1950 m. The drive will take you through the spectacular hills of Mussoorie and the renowned Kempty falls. The roads here are long and winding and swift mountain streams run parallel to the roads in many sections.
After crossing Mussoorie, the landscape changes distinctly. Deep gorges are replaced by a canopy of blue pine forests that carry the fresh scent of the woods. The Yamuna River accompanies you constantly throughout.
The final stretch of 22 km to Sankri, however, steals the show as we will be driving through the infamous Govind National Park that is home to a plethora of exotic flora and fauna. The roads can be rough and bumpy in some sections but the breathtaking views of the dense conifer forests, Tons river valley and scattered apple orchids will more than make up for it.
Expect to reach Sankri by 5 PM in the evening. Sankri is a lush green village that hosts some unparalleled views of Mt. Swargarohini, especially during sunset time. During peak winter season, that is December to February, you will encounter snow right from Sankri itself.
The stay today will be in guest houses. After check-in, trekkers can freshen up and explore the surrounding areas.
Sankri (1950 m) to Taluka (2108 m) by road; Trek from Taluka (2108 m) to Pauni Garaat (2500 m)
Distance covered: 12 km from Sankri to Taluka; 9 km trek from Taluka to Pauni Garaat
Duration: 1 hour to reach Taluka; 5-6 hours to reach Pauni Garaat
There is a motor-able road stretching over 12 km that connects Sankri to Taluka. We start at 8 AM and drive through a forest road flanked by Deodar and Bamboo trees. Streams of clear water swerving down the hills accompany you throughout this stretch. The drive is a delight for all nature lovers as you will be able to spot rare Himalayan birds like the Himalayan Raven, Red-Billed Blue Magpie, and Himalayan Bulbul.
It takes an hour to reach Taluka. Taluka is a small picturesque hamlet with a cluster of concrete houses and a couple of government guest houses. The gushing Supin River flowing across the village dominates the landscape.
After a short break of refreshments, we begin the 9 km trek towards Pauni Garaat. The trek commences on an uneven stony trail that runs out of the village. A few minutes into the trek, the trail expands into an open land and you will find yourself walking along the banks of the Supin River.
Eventually, the trail translates into a level walk through dense lush conifers where you spot the first cemented bridge running over a small gentle stream. After about 20 minutes, you will come across another wooden bridge over a stream. You can fill your water bottles here.
The hike is quite pleasant throughout as you will be walking under the shade of Walnut, Pine and Cedar trees accompanied by the sound of the flowing river. You might even find walnuts on the ground in autumn. The gradient of the trail is easy mostly with gradual ascents. You will often see mule-traffic along the way accompanied by locals carrying heavy loads on their backs in preparation for the long winters.
A couple of hours into the trek, you will see the small village of Gangar on the other side of the river. Small wooden shops serving tea and snacks dot the landscape. We will be taking a quick halt here to have our packed lunches.
The trail out of the Gangar village runs along the right hand side of the river. Fields of Potato and Maize can be spotted along the way. The campsite for the day, Pauni Garaat, is situated in a vast clearing enroute. The actual village of Pauni Garaat, however, is located on the other side of the river.
After setting up camps and freshening up, take some time to explore the area around the campsite. Have a hot dinner and tuck in early to get ample rest for the next day.
Pauni Garaat (2500 m) to Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m)
Distance covered: 8 km from Pauni Garaat to Kalkattiyadhaar
Duration: 3-4 hours to reach Kalkattiyadhaar
The day begins with a short session of yoga and stretching to pump up for the trek ahead. Post breakfast, we commence the 8 km long trek to Kalkattiyadhaar. The trail runs through a thicket of towering forests culminating in the village of Seema. It is marked by a sparse cluster of concrete structures and a forest department guest house set on the banks of the Supin River. The Osla village is located on the other side of the river, at a slightly higher elevation of about a hundred metres.
Next to the village of Seema lies the infamous Seema Bridge, a large hanging bridge running across the Supin River with a backdrop of colossal mountain ranges. The jewel-blue Supin River can be seen sparkling as it winds its merry way through the boulders.
Once you cross the bridge, get ready for a steep climb all the way up to the point where we meet the trail coming out of Osla. Expansive farms, mostly growing Amaranth, dominate the landscape here. You will find villagers working in the farms. During monsoon, the amaranth takes on a deep reddish hue adding a striking contrast to the scenery. After half an hour, the trail opens up to grand snow-capped views of the Banderpoonch and Swargarohini ranges.
The trail gradually climbs higher beyond this point passing by a variety of flowers like fleece and sunflowers. As we make our way past a couple of fields, the river Supin retreats from view far below. This stretch is blessed with some magnificent viewpoints of the Dhauladhar ranges.
The trail eventually culminates at a ridge locally named as Kalkattiyadhar. Our campsite, lays a short descent away from this ridge. Expect to reach the campsite by 1 PM in the afternoon.
The Kalkattiyadhar campsite is a beautiful open meadow set in an exquisite location. You will be able to spot some renowned peaks like the Buyal Devsu and Mt. Black Peak from here. You will also be able to see the Ruinsara Range running on the left and the Kedarkantha Summit on the right. Take a breather basking in the expansive views of the valley and the warm sun. This day being a short one gives ample time to the trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for the summit.
Note: The forest department of Uttarakhand shuts the Har Ki Dun trek for visitors post December until mid March.
Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m) to Har Ki Dun (3566 m) and back to Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m)
Distance covered: 14 km from Kalkattiyadhaar to Har Ki Dun and back to Kalkattiyadhaar
Duration: 7-8 hours to reach Har Ki Dun and back to Kalkattiyadhaar
The summit day is the longest of all days as we will be covering a distance of about 14 km. Be prepared for an early start. We begin our hike at 6 AM post breakfast just as the sun rises. In December, the pristine white snow-blanket all around shines meekly as we trail through. Depending upon the density and rigidity of the snow, your trek leader may provide you with microspikes and gaiters for easy navigation.
The trail heading out of the campsite runs high above the convergence of the Supin River and the river from the Ruinsara valley. From this point onwards, sprawling views of the snow-clad peaks of Ruinsara valley (including Mt. Black peak) with the Har Ki Dun valley resting below take over the landscape. The trek gradient is moderate with a mixture of steep and gradual ascends.
The trail eventually leads you to a stretch with an incline of about 45 degrees. Although it is not steep, the section is likely to be covered in knee-deep snow making it a taxing ascent.
The last leg to the summit climbs side by side with the river through a dense forest before opening up to a clearing cradling some of the prominent peaks in the region. This is the Har Ki Dun Summit. From the summit, you will be able to see the open grounds below Swaragrohini-1 peak and also catch glimpses of Hata Peak and Black Peak covered in snow.
The valley has plenty to explore such as meadows full of alpine flowers, glacier moraines, coniferous forests, swift streams and the grand view of huge mountain ranges. You can explore the entire ground in about an hour or two and head back to Kalkattiyadhaar after lunch.
Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m) to Pauni Garaat (2500 m)
Distance covered: 7 km from Kalkattiyadhaar to Pauni Garaat
Duration: 3-4 hours to reach Pauni Garaat
Wake up in time to catch a pleasing sunrise from the Kalkattiyadhaar campsite. The morning temperatures are quite low and can even drop to subzero levels in December. The journey back is fairly easy since the trail is mostly downhill. After having breakfast, we begin the trek by crossing the Har Ki Dun Bridge and continue the gentle descent downstream. From there, ascend up to the Kalkattiyadhaar and descent gradually till Pauni Garaat.
Since the trek is not very long today, we will explore the quaint village of Osla along the way. The village, spread along a mountain slope, has several double storied wooden houses with slant roofs. There is a charming Someshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with beautiful and detailed carvings on the walls here. If time permits, you may also spend some time talking to the locals who are always happy to see trekkers. We will then head back to Pauni Garaat over the downward trail and spend the night there.
Trek from Pauni Garaat (2500 m) to Taluka (2108 m); Taluka (2108 m) to Sankri (1950 m) by road
Distance covered: 12 km trek from Pauni Garaat to Taluka; 12 km from Taluka to Sankri.
Duration: 5-6 hours to reach Taluka; 1 hour to reach Sankri
After breakfast, we begin our descent to Taluka retracing the same path we came through. The trek runs through thick forests of Chir Pine, various ferns and flowering trees making up for a beautiful trail. Beware of “bichu ghaas” growing along the sides of the trail. Even a gentle touch of the plant can leave you with a stinging sensation for about 25 minutes. Don’t worry though, the herb is not poisonous and is in fact cooked by locals as a vegetable.
Since we will be descending throughout today, be careful not to exert too much pressure on your knees while walking. Trekking poles can come in handy for this stretch.
A couple of hours into the trail, you will find yourself walking alongside the waters of the Supin River. The final stretch to Taluka is over a cemented trail, at the end of which our vehicle will be ready to take you back to Sankri by road. We reach Sankri just in time to sit back, relax and reminisce on memories of the trek over a hot cup of tea.
Sankri (1950 m) to Dehradun (640 m)
Distance covered: 197 km from Sankri to Dehradun
Duration: 9-10 hours to reach Dehradun
After breakfast, savor the mesmerizing landscapes around as we prepare to checkout. We will be retracing the same roads that we drove through on the first day. Expect to reach Dehradun by 7-8 PM.
Note: To be on the safer side though, arrange your return journey expecting to be at the Dehradun Bus Stand at around 9 PM. This could help account for any delays we may run into along the way.
Har ki Dun is an easy level trek ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers. For a novice, it is a great start to enter the world of trekking. It can get a bit rigorous for the first-timers. Therefore, it is recommended to the first timers to maintain a good physical stamina and read extensively. Any experienced trekker would love to go on this trek for the love of its views and trekking.
1. How to choose a right rucksack: It is essential that you choose a right rucksack for the trek since you are going to carry it all the time while trekking. Make sure you don’t make these common mistakes while buying a rucksack.
2. How to pack a rucksack: Trekking in mountains become more fun when your rucksack is well-organized. It also makes it easier for you to carry without being much load on your shoulders. Follow the guidelines on how to pack a rucksack.
1. Jog/Run for 4 Kms in 35-40 mins or Walk continuously for 8 Kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better)
2. Hold your breath for 25-30 seconds
If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.
One should have done an easy trek of 2-3 days upto 2500 M altitude. Those coming for the first time should prepare and read extensively about the trek. A basic knowledge of how to use a sleeping bag, toilet tents, sleeping tents, and mountain mannerisms will help.
Click here for packing list.
Start point of Har ki Dun Trek is Taluka which is 12 kms from Sankri. Sankri is a small village in Uttarakhand which is a base camp for many Uttrakhand treks. It is 180 km from Dehradun. There are indirect public buses and shared jeeps running between Dehradun and Sankri.
Dehradun is easily accessible through road, rail, and air transport.
By Road:
There are no direct buses to Sankri from Delhi. There You can take overnight UKRTC buses and Volvos available from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi to Dehradun. The distance from Delhi to Dehradun is about 247 km. You can also hire a taxi or outstation cab from Delhi to Dehradun.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station to Sankri is 187 km away in Dehradun. There are a number of trains running between Delhi and Dehradun like Dehradun Express, Mussoorie Express, Nanda Devi Express. It is advisable to make your train bookings a month in advance.
By Air:
The nearest airport from Sankri is Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun which is 213 km away from Sankri. You can reach Dehradun from New Delhi by flight.
Dehradun is the beautiful capital city of Uttrakhand with a number of attractions to visit. Sahastradhara, a ‘thousand fold water spring’ is a famous tourist spot in Dehradun. The waters of the spring are believed to have medicinal properties. Robber’s Cave or Guchhi Pani is a famous picnic spot for fun-loving enthusiasts. Visit the holy Tapkeshwar Temple on the bank of Asan River which is believed have one of the oldest Shivling. Enjoy the splash at much touted Kempty Falls in Mussoorie. The highest place in Mussoorie, Lal Tibba is where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. Admire the Kumaon and Garhwal Art & Culture at SOHAM Heritage and Art Centre.
There is no mobile reception after Sankri. Even in Sankri, you get only BSNL network. There are a few landline booths in Sankri that can be used on paid basis.
The minimum age limit is 9 years. However, minors aged between 9 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
It is mandatory to carry ID Proof for the trek. (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried along)
Har Ki Dun trek best time is March to May.
The stay at Sankri will be at guesthouse/homestay and we will camp during the rest of the trek.
We use four-season tents and the sleeping bags we use are rated from -15 to -20 degree celcius.
We dig dry pit toilets and set up one toilet tent per batch of seven participants.
The temperatures vary from 15 degrees in the day to -1 degree during the nights.
There will be snow during the Har Ki Dun trek in the months of March and April. Post-mid-November you can expect snow if there is a fresh snowfall.
A Trek leader will be assigned to lead you on the trek.
A trekking pole comes handy while trekking in the snow.
You can shop at the base village Sankri.
Yes, it is completely safe for solo women travellers.
The pickup will be from Outside ISBT, Dehradun at 7:00 AM to Sankri (the base village of the trek) and the drop on the last day will be at the same place in Dehradun by/before 8:00 PM.
Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.
For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date
5% Deduction
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure
50%
deduction
Less than 15 days of departure
No Cash Refund
Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date
No Deduction
Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure
No Refund
Sarthak Madan 25 October 2018
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