Har Ki Dun Trek Guide- An Astonishing Trek in the Himalayas
A cradle-shaped valley at an altitude of 3566m, Har Ki Dun trek is located in the center of Govind Ballabh Pant National Park. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine plants, Har ki Dun is arguably one of the most beautiful trekking destinations in Uttarakhand’s unparalleled natural beauty. With gentle descends and easy climbs, the Har Ki Dun Trek in the Garhwal Himalayas is an ideal choice for beginners. Hike to Har ki Dun, which offers stunning views of the valley at the foot of Fateh Parvat, the azure blue sky and chestnuts, the Deodar, and the dense forest of Sycamore maples.
One of the best hikes in Uttarakhand, you can hike along sparkling, playful, blooming streams and waterfalls, or even climb small slopes. The landscape becomes even more spectacular with each step. The hills give way to the mountains and the mountains give way to the giants until the valley opens in the cup-shaped palm of Har Ki Doon.
This easy level trek falls into the category of epic historic adventure trekking sites where one can feel the essence of mythologies. This glorious valley is bestowed with lush green meadows, colorful gardens, and surreal scenic beauties. We are walking through a dense, dense forest covered with rhododendron trees and many other trees. The roads are beautiful, with flowers everywhere and snow in winter. Among the birds in the forest, you can find a wide variety of birds. Mountain ridges, pine forests, glacier chains, and stunning Himalayan breathtaking views.
Why one Should Plan Har Ki Dun Trek
Har Ki Dun Trek is probably India’s most beautiful river valley trail and has never lost its appeal to trekkers around the world. The beauty of the valley itself is its main attraction, for many reasons. With seasonal color changes, this route is a year-round choice for nature lovers. This gorgeous valley offers spectacular views of the pristine valleys of the remote lands of the Garhwal Himalayas. It is one of the most impressive and hugely visited places in India and offers numerous trekking tours.
This charming valley remains covered with the thick sheets of snow during the winter months and these snow blankets make it look like a fairyland and in the summer, the valleys are different and fun as the meadows, wildflowers and forests bloom in different colors.
- Also Read: The Best Winter Treks in India
Location of Har Ki Dun Valley
A cradle-shaped valley located under the summit of Har ki Doon toward the west of the Garhwal Himalayas. The Har ki Dun Valley, at an altitude of 3556 meters, is accessible from Govind National Park, known for its wide range of flora and fauna species. Trekking trails take you through the opportunity to experience chestnut and walnut trees, willow and Chinese dense forests, glacier basins, pine forests, magnificent ancient villages, and a wonderful, slow local lifestyle.
Truth and Mythology behind Har Ki Dun Trek
Numerous parables and stories from the Mahabharata era are associated with this renowned trekking site. However, it is important that readers and hikers know the true facts and myths. Many trekking companies claim a myth about the worship of Duryodhana in the Yudhisthira temple. Locals believe that Har Ki Dun Trek will take them to heaven. The truth is that none of them exist here, based on accurate facts and research. On the contrary, the chronicle of Yudhishthir, which goes to heaven through the Har ki Dun Road, never exists here.
Instead, the story of reaching heaven was guided through the road from Badrinath to the summit of Swargarohini on the Narayan Parvat (mountain). Places that have passed are Lakshmi Van, Chakaratil, Sahastradhara, and Lake Satopanth. In addition, there is no Duryodhana Temple in the Uttarkashi Forest area. Instead, the temple claimed as Duryodhana is the Someshwar Mahadev Temple, the chapel of Lord Shiva. This is why Har Ki Dun is popularly called as ‘Valley of Shiva’.
- Check Out: Mt. Satopanth Expedition
Best Time to Visit Har Ki Dun
Summer i.e. April- June and post-monsoon (September-December) are considered to be the ideal times for this hike. If you are interested in snow trekking, the best time to go is winter. The climatic conditions of the highlands are different from those of the plains. Take enough time to get used to the great height.
HAR KI DUN WEATHER
In Summer: You can expect fine weather in the summer. There is usually no fog and the sky is clear in most cases. If you’re planning a summer hike, don’t forget to bring light wool clothing as the temperatures are cold at night.
In Monsoon
Monsoon months i.e. July and August are the least recommended time to plan your Har Ki Dun trek as the region receives heavy rainfall and experiences often landslides. The roads remain blocked most of the times but the incredible scenic beauty makes your journey worthy.
In Winter
If you are seeking for a peaceful and serene ambiance then winter months are best to plan this easy grade trek. The area is blessed with winter snowfall and accommodation options are limited. If you’re traveling in the winter, don’t forget to bring warm clothes, a jacket, a raincoat, a fleece jacket and warm clothes. One must be aware that the accommodations are limited in the region hence, advance booking is compulsory if you want to make it a hassle-free journey.
Note- If you are trekking here in the winter months then do pack warm clothes, winter jackets, and other winter essentials like gloves, socks, etc.
How to Reach Har Ki Dun
Likewise other travel destinations in Uttarakhand, Har Ki Dun is also accessible via all modes of transport. Keep scrolling down the page to know more in details.
By Air– Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport to reach this trekking site. The airport is well-connected with Delhi and other major cities of the country.
By Train– Dehradun Railway Station is the nearest railhead connected with various big cities of the country like, Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow.
By Road– On reaching Dehradun, a trekker shall catch a bus to Sankri from where you will start your trekking journey.
Locals and Their Culture
Nowadays, in the Himalayas, it is not common to have to walk a full day to reach the last village on the road from the nearest motorway. The trail, which begins in Tadka, opens up opportunities to see a few of the irresistible inland villages such as Osla. Beautifully crafted with wooden houses and local clothing, it resembles the Kinnauri culture of the neighboring Himachal Pradesh.
This route is certainly a hit for parents who want to start hiking and outdoor experiences for Himalayan children. If you are interested in this kind of interaction, check out the homestay options offered in the region and enjoy the mouth-watering cuisines cooked by the locals.
Travel Tips for Har Ki Dun trek
- Although Har Ki Dun Trek is easy to climb but covers a relatively long distance. Therefore, the trekker must be physically fit for this
- Slippers and porters can also be rented. It can be rented, especially during the trekking season when it is difficult to carry luggage.
- If you are traveling during the Monsoon, check with your local government, tour guide, or tour operator for weather and road conditions before you begin your trip or
- We recommend that you have an experienced tour guide to accompany your The guide is familiar with the route and will help you deviate from the course.
- Don’t forget to carry a good pair of trekking shoes and the essential winter stuffs to avoid falling sick.
Some Frequently Asked Questions about this Trek
We truly believe that planning a trip has never been an easy task and one gets confused with several questions. Check out the below stated questions as you might also be wondering about the same.
Q-1 What is the maximum height of this easy grade trek
- Ans- One needs to climb up 3566 meters above the sea level.
Q-2 Is it possible to get the trekking equipment’s on rent
- Ans- Yes, you can find almost every required trekking essentials on rent i.e. tents, trekking shoes, spikes, gators, and almost everything.
Q-3 What is the best time to explore this trekking site
- Ans- Summer months and post monsoon months are the two most ideal times to plan this trek.
Q-4 Can we complete this trek with a shoestring budget
- Ans- The first thing that one considers while planning a trip is budget and if you are looking for a budget friendly trek to Har Kin Dun then contact different travel agencies and select the one that matches with your travel preference and falls under your decided budget.
Also Check out: Best Trekking Tours in Uttarakhand