Gaumukh – Source of River Ganga

One of the most popular and rewarding treks in the Garhwal Himalayas, Gaumukh – Tapovan – Nandanvan Circuit not only gives you the opportunity to camp at the foot of lofty Himalayan peak but it also involves crossing the massive Gaumukh Glacier, the origin of Ganga River.

Gaumukh is the second-largest glacier of India with 30 kms in length and 4 kms in width, first one being Siachen. The Himalayan peaks visible during this trek are Shivling, Sudarshan, Meru, Bhagirathi sisters, Kharchkund and more.

The trail to Gaumukh is open for trekkers and pilgrims from May to October. Gangotri National Park  remains closed during winters as it is prone to heavy snowfall.

Visit  the Gangotri Temple is a key attraction of this trek. It is one of the sacred Char Dham of Uttarakhand. Gangotri is the place from where Bhagirathi River descends. Situated at an altitude of 3,048mts above sea level, Gangotri acts as the base camp of the trek to Gaumukh Glacier.

Best Time to Visit Gangotri Gaumukh Trek

May, June, September and October

Summer (May, June) : 

Weather remains salubrious, mild and pleasing during the day time while the nights are relatively chilly in comparison.

Autumn (September, October) : 

Perhaps the best time to go for trekking as this is when there is an onset of snowfall and landscapes starts looking picturesque. If planning to visit during the autumn season, one should do booking in advance as there are very less accommodation options.

Why did the Gaumukh Tapovan trek fall in popularity?

Can you believe that the new popularity of other treks actually brought the Gaumukh Tapovan trek down from its grace? It’s almost like a new generation movie star replaced an older star. It sounds silly, but that’s what happened to the Gaumukh Tapovan trek. Treks like Roopkund, Rupin Pass and the Hampta Pass gained popularity. And the Gaumukh Tapovan fell in popularity.

As is the mentality of most trekkers, if they find one trek attractive, they just rush towards the new offering. It is a mistake. We don’t know about movie stars but in trekking old is still gold.