Video title

Har ki Dun Trek

A Gorgeous River Valley Trek for Beginners

Easy

Har ki Dun Trek

BRS 3
Max Altitude
Uttarakhand
7 Days
50 Km
Max 15
11900 + 5% GST
Sankri to Sankri

Add ons





Description

Grade:Easy
Location: Uttarakhand
Altitude:3500 m
Duration:7 Days
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.

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Brief Itinerary

Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (1950 m)
Sankri (1950 m) to Taluka (2108 m) by road; Trek from Taluka (2108 m) to Pauni Garaat (2500 m)
Pauni Garaat (2500 m) to Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m)
Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m) to Har Ki Dun (3566 m) and back to Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m)
Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m) to Pauni Garaat (2500 m)
Trek from Pauni Garaat (2500 m) to Taluka (2108 m); Taluka (2108 m) to Sankri (1950 m)  by road
Sankri (1950 m) to Dehradun (640 m)

Detailed Itinerary


Day 1

Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (1950 m)

Distance: 197 kms

Duration: 9-10 hours

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.

Day 2

Sankri (1950 m) to Taluka (2108 m) by road; Trek from Taluka (2108 m) to Pauni Garaat (2500 m)

Distance: 12 kms + 9 kms

Duration: 1 hour drive + 5-6 hours trek

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.

Day 3

Pauni Garaat (2500 m) to Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m)

Distance: 8 kms

Duration: 3-4 hours

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.

Day 4

Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m) to Har Ki Dun (3566 m) and back to Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m)

Distance: 14 kms

Duration: 7-8 hours

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.

Day 5

Kalkattiyadhaar (3024 m) to Pauni Garaat (2500 m)

Distance: 7 kms

Duration: 3-4 hours

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.

Day 6

Trek from Pauni Garaat (2500 m) to Taluka (2108 m); Taluka (2108 m) to Sankri (1950 m)  by road

Distance: 12 kms + 12 kms

Duration: 5-6 hours trek + 1 hour drive

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.

Day 7

Sankri (1950 m) to Dehradun (640 m)

Distance: 197 kms

Duration: 9-10 hours

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.

 

What's Included

  • Food as per menu on the trek
  • Forest Permits/Camping Charges (only if availing transportation through Bikat Adventures)
  • Tents, Sleeping bags, mats
  • Safety Equipments
  • Trek guide, cook, helpers, porters and mules for carrying common luggage
  • Services of a Trek Leader

What's Not Included

  • Meals during road journeys
  • Meals during hotel/guest house stay
  • Carriage of Personal Bags during the trek
  • Any kind of Insurance
  • Any expense of personal nature
  • Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.
  • Transportation from Dehradun to Sankri and back to Dehradun

Are you Eligible for this Adventure?

Har ki Dun, also known as The Valley of Gods is set at a height of 3500 meters. It is ideal for beginners looking to step up their trekking game.

Easy
3500 m
50 km

BRS Level Required

BRS 3

Har ki Dun Trek is a level 3 adventure on the Bikat Rating Scale.

TThis makes it an easy level trek. Known for its changing scenery, the terrain of the trek is not so challenging, however, the long distances one needs to cover each day call for a certain level of stamina. You will need good lung capacity and leg strength to cover the length of the trek safely.

If you do not know what level of BRS trek would suit you best, worry not! Fill out this Form:

we will send you a progression chart to help you comfortably get out of your comfort zone in order to level up and ultimately reach your highest potential in the big, bad world of outdoor adventure.

Packing List

This is a list of essential items for individuals doing the trek with Bikat Adventures. This list contains only those items which the participants are required to bring with them. The list excludes those items which are provided by Bikat Adventures on the trek. We have divided the items into five categories. All the items in the list are essential except for those marked as optional.

Trekking Gear

  • Ruck sack bag with rain cover. Qty -1
  • Day Pack Bag - Recommended for treks with summit day
  • Head Torch with spare Batteries. Qty -1
  • U V protection sunglasses. Qty -1 Here is how you can choose the best sunglasses for trekking.
  • Water Bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each

Footwear

  • Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes Qty -1
  • Pair of light weight Slipper/Sandals Qty -1

Clothing

  • Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. Qty - 2
  • Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts. 1 for every 2 days of trekking
  • Pair of thick woolen socks. 1 pair for every two days of trekking
  • Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. Qty-1
  • Undergarments. Qty - 1 for every day of trekking
  • Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck .Qty-1
  • Full sleeves sweater. Qty -1
  • Rain wear ( Jacket & Pants ) . Qty-1
  • Pair of waterproof, warm gloves. Qty-1
  • Woolen cap. Qty-1
  • Sun shielding Hat. Qty -1

Toiletries

  • Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)
  • Sun screen lotion small pack. Qty -1 Here is your Sun Protection 101 to stay safe in the bright sunny outdoors.
  • Lip Balm small pack. Qty-1

Utensils

  • Small size, Light weight & Leak proof lunch box. Qty-1
  • Plate. Qty- 1
  • Spoon.Qty-1
  • Tea/Coffee (plastic) Mug.Qty-1

Miscellaneous

  • Camera (Optional)
  • Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.
  • Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional)


Frequently Asked Questions



The Har ki Dun Trek, at BRS 3, is suitable for both beginners and seasoned trekkers.

If you can Jog/Run for 3 kms in 25-30 mins, you are ready to take on this trek. In addition to this, you can also add resistance workouts to your schedule like squats, lunges, push ups etc.

If you cannot do the above, there’s no need to worry. It is important to remember that it’s all about practice. Get on a training schedule and we can assure you that you will meet these standards in a matter of a few months.

A certain level of fitness and physical endurance are required to take on any high-altitude trail in the Himalayas. Basic knowledge about how to use a sleeping bag, toilet tents, sleeping tents, and mountain mannerisms will be helpful.

The minimum age limit is 9 years. However, minors between 9 to 17 years of age should be accompanied by their parents/ guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deems you fit for adventure activities like trekking.


Har Ki Dun trek is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, in the Western Garhwal region of the Himalayas. The trek starts from the small village of Sankri, which is located approximately 200 kilometres from Dehradun.

Har Ki Dun trek is a beautiful and picturesque trek located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. 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 sight to behold. On a clear day, you can spot snow-capped peaks like Swargarohini, Hathi Peak and Black Peak amongst others. For more details on the highlights of this trek, read Highlights of Har ki Dun

The trek involves a sudden increase in altitude, rocky and uneven terrain, with steep ascents and descents, and unpredictable weather conditions. Trekkers need to be physically fit and mentally prepared for a strenuous climb. For more details on the challenges of this climb, read Who is this trek meant for?

The best time to do Har ki Dun Trek is from September to December.

On trekking days we have twin-sharing tents. In case you want an individual tent, you can add that to your booking request for an additional cost.

During winter months, the temperature drops significantly and the area is covered in snow. The temperature ranges from -5°C to 5°C during the day and can drop to -10°C to -15°C at night.

Har Ki Dun trek is not considered technically challenging, but it can be physically demanding due to its length and the altitude gain. The trek takes you through some steep climbs, rocky terrain, and river crossings. However, it is a beginner-friendly trek and can be done by anyone who is physically fit.


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 popular treks. It is 180 km from Dehradun. There are public buses and shared jeeps running between Dehradun and Sankri. For details on how to reach the base of the trek, read How to reach Sankri

There is no mobile reception after Sankri. Even in Sankri, you get only BSNL and JIO network. Our Homestays also have wi-fi network connectivity on paid basis.

You can find last ATMs in Parola a small town on the way to Sankri.

The pickup will be from outside ISBT, Dehradun at 7:00 AM to travel to Sankri (the base village of the trek). Payment for the same will be divided between the number of participants and made on the spot.

The drop on the last day will be outside ISBT, Dehradun by/before 9:00 PM. Payment for the same will be divided between the number of participants and made on the spot.

There are a number of places to visit in Dehradun and Mussoorie. 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 to have one of the oldest Shivlings. Enjoy the splash at the 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.


All the common gear like tents, sleeping bags, mattresses etc. are provided. All the technical climbing equipment (as required) are also provided to you. Safety equipment used for rescue is carried by our trek leaders.

You can rent trekking shoes, trekking pole, a fleece jacket and a rucksack from us. In case you have any other requirements, you can talk to our representative and we will be happy to assist you in any way that we can.

You will receive your rented equipment in Sankri, on Day 1.

Our trek leaders will collect the rented equipment from you at the end of the trek on the last day.

For a detailed list, check the Packing List section on this page.

Dehradun has a sufficiently large market. However, do not leave anything for last minute buying as there will be no time for shopping because of immediate transportation to Sankri.


Although not recommended, you can off load your bag at an additional cost. Add a request while making your booking for the trek and it can be arranged.

(Note: We don’t recommend offloading because the extra resources on a trail - ponies or porters depending on the trail - means extra load on the environment which can easily be avoided. It also goes against the spirit of trekking by eliminating a level of endurance and discomfort from the experience which are factors at the very heart of an outdoor adventure activity.)

Yes, you can leave extra baggage at the homestay in Sankri which can be collected on the return journey.

On all trek days, we provide 3 full meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) in addition to evening snacks and tea. The meals are vegetarian and the menu is pre-decided for all days of the trek. We do provide eggs as well on certain days. If you have any specific food-related allergies or restrictions, you can let our local staff (during the trek) know, and your requests will get accommodated. We try to provide a variety of food across meals so as to avoid repetition as well as cover all nutritional needs.

On campsites, our team will dig dry pits and assemble a toilet tent to provide for safe and secure quarters. A shovel will be provided within the toilet tent as well. Using water in the toilet tent is restricted; you will need to carry your own toilet paper. On the more difficult expeditions, toilet tents are not carried to the higher camps (above base camp) due to restriction of space (to pitch the tent).

In case you get your period on the trail and don’t have sanitary napkins, our trek leaders can provide them to you. If you need any other kind of assistance, you can let our trek leaders know. Irrespective of gender, our leaders are gender sensitised and equipped to assist you in any way you need them to.

Our team carries a first aid kit and all the basic medicines required during the trek. They are equipped to be the first responders in case of any injury or health-related issues. For higher expeditions, we also carry a HAPO Bag and oxygen cylinders to tend to any altitude-related health conditions.

There are charging points at the homestay in Sankri but the region is prone to long hours of power cuts. Once we leave Sankri we will be camping in the wilderness with no access to electricity.


A copy of your ID Proof and Medical Certificate are the mandatory documents required for this trek. (Soft copies for all of these are to be sent to us & originals should be on your person while on the trek.)

Yes, insurance for any high-altitude activity is highly recommended to cover for the cost of rescue, evacuation and any other emergency service required as well as to cover for medical cost in case of injury or illness during the trek. You can buy it on your own. Alternatively, if you want us to buy it on your behalf, you can speak to our post-booking team and they will arrange it for you. They will send you a payment link once the insurance has been purchased.

Yes, there are multiple permits required for this. We obtain the permits on every trekkers’ behalf. All the permit costs are included in your trek cost.


Yes, you will receive e-certificates (of completion) after the trek. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek. In case you were unable to finish the trek, you will get a certificate of participation.

On completion of the trek, the certificate will show up on your dashboard on our website. You can download it directly from there.


Har ki Dun Trek is in India. If you are coming from outside, you will need a visa to enter the country. You should be able to find the rules for obtaining a Visa based on your home country on the internet. This information is easily available.

This does not apply to you if you are an Indian citizen. In case you don’t hold an Indian passport, you will need to check online for Visa application rules based on your home country.

If you are not an Indian citizen, you will need Travel Medical Insurance to travel to the country. Please make sure that your insurance policy is valid for the altitude you are going to and the activity you are undertaking, to cover risks during the trek. The insurance policy provided by Bikat Adventures does not cover foreign nationals. So, please do not purchase it while making the booking from our website.

The Himalayas house the tallest mountains in the world and have long been a treasure trove for all adventure enthusiasts. The variety in terms of beauty, terrain, landscape, geography, culture and opportunity for adventure in the Himalayas, remains undisputedly unmatched.

You can make the booking any time depending on availability of slots in our fixed departure batches. You will get this information at the top of this page.


A Basic Mountaineering Course certification from one of the five recognized mountaineering institutes in India is a minimum requirement to join our team. Our field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response. We also conduct on-ground training for our staff once a year as a refresher for old skills and to learn some new ones. During this training that we call APW (Adventure Professional Workshop), our leaders learn close to 25 topics and techniques of rescue which are not covered in the BMC and AMC courses. For practical training, we simulate on-ground situations to prepare them for quick thinking and quick response during emergencies.

We follow a rigorous regime of hiring and training our experts on the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience in the field. The interview process to bring a trek leader on-board is close to 6 months long where we assess various skills as well as personality traits of an individual. They also go through an on-field assignment as part of the hiring process. Trek leaders also progress in time from leading easier treks before advancing to the more difficult ones where the stakes are higher. For detailed information on our selection process, please visit Forerunners - The Making Of A Trek Leader

It absolutely is. We recognize, value and embody the ideology that the world of outdoor adventure can benefit from diversity. We make it our mission to create outdoor spaces as equally accessible and safe for all genders as possible. We also encourage women leaders in the outdoors and all of our staff (irrespective of gender) is gender sensitised. As for accommodation, in case there are no other women on the trek, a solo female trekker is provided with a separate single-occupancy tent.

Our batch sizes for Har ki Dun Trek are capped at 15 with the trek leader to trekker ratio of 1:8.

In addition to their qualification, our trek leaders are trained to tackle any and all kinds of sudden conditions that may present themselves on ground. During our recce stage, we study the trail in great detail and map out rescue routes before opening it up for our trekkers. We also have local support staff stationed in each area to arrange for emergency services at the place of need as quickly as possible.

We mobilise road rescue efforts where our trek leaders bring the person to be rescued down to the trailhead of the trek from where a car can take them to the nearest healthcare facility. The cost of rescue is not covered in the trek fee that we charge. It must be borne by the participant. However, if you opt for the insurance the cost of rescue operations can be claimed from the Insurance company on production of valid proof e.g. doctor’s prescription & hospital bills etc. Please note that Bikat Adventures is only a facilitator & not a party in the Insurance policy. You need to raise the claim request directly with the Insurance company. Bikat Adventures is not responsible for any rejection of claim. You can call the insurance provider directly for any clarifications related to the Insurance policy. Although not mandatory, we recommend buying the insurance. You don’t necessarily have to get the insurance we provide, you can pick an Insurance company of your choice and get a policy directly from them. If you need more information on the terms and conditions of the insurance policy, get in touch with our customer support team.

All the gear used on our treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality and is overall top notch in quality and condition. We are continually looking to obtain the best of everything there is in the market so as to ensure optimum safety.

That will depend on the nature of your medical condition. Do give us a call, and one of our people will help you understand what is best for you. If not this, we are sure there would be plenty of other options you can choose from our vast portfolio to pick as your next adventure.


We have rolling camps on all our trails. To know why we are strictly against the concept of Fixed Camping, read Reasons to Ban Fixed Camping in Himalayas

This is a complex question and has a compound answer. The simple response is that because it is bad for the environment which we dearly love but if you are interested in a more detailed response to this question, please read Reasons to Ban Fixed Camping in Himalayas

There are a number of measures that we take to prevent overcrowding on some of the most popular trails. Some of them are capping our group size at 15, capping the number of trekkers on a trail to 250 per season, constantly looking for newer trails and routes to spread the crowd around and providing incentives to our trekkers to try unexplored territories with us. We put in place the system of dynamic pricing, which is the first of its kind in the trekking industry, which incentivises trekkers to choose less crowded trails by offering higher discounts. We have noticed, since we started this system, that this has helped in a big way to spread out the crowds between trekking routes. We are also going international so as to relieve some of the stress on the Himalayan landscape as well as explore newer ranges and design newer experiences for our community. If you want a more detailed description of all our measures in this regard, please read Simple solutions to overcrowding on Himalayan Treks

Some basic things to remember are: do not use water, do not dispose of anything non-biodegradable inside the pits, carry your own roll of toilet paper and remember to cover up after yourself to leave a clean toilet for your fellow trekkers. Everything else is much the same like using an Indian style home toilet!

Most wet wipes are not biodegradable which means it could take 100 years or more for them to decompose – not the best thing if you are trying to ‘Leave No Trace’, right?

This is quite a tricky situation but not a hopeless one. Since most of our sanitary waste is not biodegradable, we recommend that you pack your pads/tampons neatly, store it in a zip-lock bag and bring it back down with you where there are better options to dispose of them. In case you do not have zip-lock bags, ask our trek leaders for them and they should be able to provide them to you.

Each trekker is responsible for the use and hygiene of their own eating utensils. And as a measure to maintain proper hygiene, we do not provide plates and spoons. Also, dipping your hands in cold water to wash your own utensils adds something to the overall joy of high-altitude living, wouldn’t you think?


On making the payment, you will receive a booking confirmation along with the packing list and a copy of the undertaking form via email. You will subsequently receive emails detailing documents required, how to prepare physically and mentally for the trek, information on pick-up location on the first day etc. Please add info@bikatadventures.com in your trusted emails list to make sure our emails don't go to your spam folder.

A Whatsapp group will be formed a few weeks before departure. Members from our team are on those groups as well. Feel free to seek any clarifications you require in regards to the trek, on the group itself. Updates related to transportation/pickup point/pickup timing, accommodation etc. will be shared on the Whatsapp group as well.

Yes, we create a Whatsapp group a few weeks before the departure date so that the flow of information remains smooth and transparent.

Yes, it is one of the mandatory documents you will need to submit before the trek starts. The soft copy is to be sent to us & the original should be on your person while on the trek.

Yes, we will provide you an undertaking form through email which will need to be filled up by you and submitted to us post booking.

Why Bikat?

Small Group Size


Our batch sizes are capped at 15 for smaller treks with the trek leader and trekker ratio of 1:8. This ratio, in our years of experience, has proven to deliver the best trekking experience for individuals as well as groups. Capping the size of the group ensures individual attention to each trekker so that no signs of distress or need during the trek go unnoticed. It also helps to form a more cohesive cohort with better group energy which helps define the rhythm and pace of days on the trek.

As you go higher up on the BRS scale, since the stakes are higher, expeditions have an even smaller group size with the ratio of expedition leader to climber set at 1:2.


Qualified Trek Leaders


We follow a rigorous regime of hiring and training our experts in the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience in the field. In addition to their qualification, they also go through practical and situational training to tackle any and all kinds of sudden conditions that may present themselves on the ground. Being unpredictable is the core nature of the mountains but being ready for any circumstance as best as possible is a controllable asset that we try to nurture.

Our field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response.

Watch: Forerunners - The Making of A Trek Leader At Bikat Adventures


Guided Progression


Since Bikat Adventures is a learning-based organization, we help you climb up the ladder of difficulty within the sphere of outdoor adventure systematically. Our on-ground training modules are designed to handhold you through the upskilling process so that you are ready to take on bigger challenges.


Equipment Quality and Check


All the gear used on our treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality, and is overall top-notch in quality and condition. We are continually looking to obtain the best of everything there is in the market so as to ensure optimum safety.


Support Systems


Along with the staff you see on-ground, we have a team of superheroes working in the background to give you the best experience possible. Our background team also comprises local staff from each area who know the region best. Having local support helps with studying the area, pre-planning, execution, and in receiving timely support in case of emergencies in these remote locations.


Communication


Our on-field staff is in constant contact with our teams based in primary locations so as to eliminate any avoidable delay in reaching additional help and support when required. We try to use the best tools for communication available, including satellite phones, in regions where they are not restricted.


What our customers Say

Cancellation Policy


Cash refund

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date

5% deduction

Cancellations between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure date

50% deduction

Cancellations within 15 days prior to departure date

No Refund

Voucher refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date

No Deduction

Cancellations within 5 days prior to departure date

No Refund

Please Note:
  1. Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers
  2. This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

Blog Posts

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Highlights of Har Ki Dun Trek
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Har Ki Dun – Who is this trek meant for?
  Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayan Range of Uttarakhand, Har Ki Dun is one of the most sought after treks of India and not without reason. Set at a height of 3500 meters, the trail takes you through ancient villages along the Supin River all th...
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The Burning Tree of Har Ki Dun
Be it a sleepover, party, or even a charcha over chai, this story can turn some heads and get some attention. On December 5th 2020, a group of mountain lovers and I started trekking towards the mountain paradise of Har Ki Dun with Bikat Adventures. ...
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My first trek in the Himalayas – Har Ki Dun
First times are always the best.They are fresh.They create eternal impressions.They blossom with excitement. They find a place in our hearts. They never fade with time.They put a smile on our faces. They stay forever. After my first bike, first love...
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The Magic of Har Ki Dun Valley   I have been on this trek twice, in 2011 & 13, and both times during the last week of Dec. This is a 4-day trek, starting from Taluka and ending at the Har Ki Dun, witnessing some scenic villages on the way ...
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A Trek To The Valley Of Shiva : Har Ki Dun
Har Ki Dun - The Valley of Lord Shiva   Day 1 - From Taluka to Seema: Trek begins with a ride to Taluka from Sankri where we had spent the previous night. Jeeps are the only mode of mechanized transportation between these two points. There is...
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Har Ki Dun Trek - 5 Things You Would Never have Expected
5 Reasons to do the Har Ki Dun Trek   Although Har Ki Dun is not ideally recommended for beginners, it can be a Beginner’s delight because it is one of the most challenging ones that you can try. It gives the right amount of glimpse...
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Har Ki Dun: A beginner's Delight
The thought of spending coming months trekking in Himalayas was keeping me awake for most of the nights. My fingers were crossed and my heart burst into epitome of joy when I received the trekking calendar plan. Har Ki Dun trek was going to be my fir...
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