The Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek journey is one of the most spiritual and audacious in the Garhwal Himalayan region. Gangotri is a wonderful high-elevated area. The drive will take you past the settlement of Bhairon Ghati and into the single,traffic-choked street of Gangotri. Here the stream is joined by its tributary, the Kedar Ganga, rising in the glaciers of Kedar Tal. Together they spout down the toffee-shaded rocks of Gauri Kund and stream down the Himalayas. Gangotri is a place where people from all over the world visit this place, which is situated at an elevation of 3200 meters.

Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek - Scenic
Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek – Scenic

The Nandan Van journey is also known as the Gangotri-Gaumukh-Nandadevi-Tapovan Trek. It is popular among trekkers as it provides a wide variety of experiences to trekkers in the Himalayas. This trek is also doable for beginners.

History of Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek

Legends say that King Bhagirath vowed to lord Shiva to rescue his children. And it was possible only with the holy water of the Ganges. Mother Ganges began her journey from the Gaumukh, where Bhagirath showed her the way to stream. The knolls through the Tapovan have been a route, from Gaumukh.

Key Points of the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek

Area 📍Garhwal, Himalayas
Duration 🗓️10 Days
Best Season 🌦️May – October
Grade 🧗🏼‍♂️Moderate
Altitude 🏔️5200 mts
Distance 👣70 K.M
Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek

Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek Highlights

  • Take the blessings of Maa Ganga at Gangotri temple.
  • Go through the Gaumaukh glacier, which is one of the biggest rivers in the Himalayas.
  • Witness the high Himalayan pinnacles like Mt. Shivling and many more.

Best time to Visit Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek

The Best Time to Travel to Gangotri Nandanvan Tapovan Trek is in the summer (May – June) and Post winter (September – October).

Summer: The climate of Gangotri Nandanvan Tapovan Trek stays salubrious and pleasing during summers.

Read more: Nanda Devi East Base Camp Trek

Post Storm: Serenity is at its best during the post-monsoon season at Gangotri Nandanvan Tapovan Trip. During this time the region is blessed with snowfall during winter. But it is recommended to go on a Trek post-monsoon as it looks like heaven on earth during this time.

Location of Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek

Tapovan (Garhwal district of Himalaya) is a high-elevation snow-covered knoll below Mt. Shivling, spread over an area of 2 km. Earlier, Tapovan was a place where sages used to meditate for hundreds of years. Several sacred men are living at Tapovan.

How to Reach Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek

Gangotri Nandovan trek is easily accessible by road, train and air. The trek starts from Gangotri temple and ends at Gaumukh. So you can reach there by various modes:

By Air:

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Gangotri temple. And it is well-connected with various significant airports across India.

By Train:

Rishikesh railway station is the nearest railway station to reach Gangotri. From the railway station, you can easily hire a taxi or local transport to reach your destination.

By Road:

Gangotri can be easily accessed from Rishikesh or Dehradun by road. Both of these destinations are an overnight journey from Delhi.

Itinerary of Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek

Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri

Trek begins from Dehradun to Gangotri and takes you through the pleasant views of the Harshil Valley. 

Arrive, in Gangotri by 5 pm. And afterward, plan your trek.

Day 2: Gangotri to Bhojwasa

Gangotri to Bhojwasa, the path consists of forests of pine trees on one side with the Bhagirathi river on another side.

Following 5 hours continuous climb towards Bhojwasa path takes you through the loving streams where travelers can relax.

Day 3: Bhojwasa to Tapovan through Gaumukh

On the climb from Tapovan to Bhojwasa, the beautiful path follows stunning valleys and rough landscapes. This daring Gaumukh Tapovan Nandanvan journey is perfect for nature lovers and picture takers too.

The path toward Tapovan is considered one of the most beautiful paths, it offers you the mind-boggling peaks of the Himalayas.

Read more: Kafni Glacier Trek

Day 4: Tapovan to Nandanvan and Back to Tapovan

The path down toward Nandanvan is the most amazing experience of your life. The Tapovan nandanvan traveling trail takes you through the glaciers with rocky terrains.

The path is encircled by lovely knolls and glaciers. When you arrive at the last destination, you will feel relaxed and free with the beauty of this place. Spend some time here and after that trek back to Tapovan from a similar path.

Day 5: Tapovan to Chirwasa

The trip from Tapovan to Chirwasa encompassed pleasant scenes, brilliant glades, and edged peaks.

The twisting path with dazzling scenes takes you to Chirwasa. After reaching there, relax and explore the beauty of the region, set up your camps, and overnight stay in camps.

Day 6: Chirwasa to Gangotri

The whole Gangotri Gaumukh tapovan nandanvan trek will require around 5-6 hours to arrive at Gangotri. The journey goes through the Bhagirathi river and the all-encompassing scenes of the path are a treat to your eyes. Follow a similar path to Gangotri. Gangotri has many touring places around and also this place is an exceptionally well-known destination for all travelers.

Day 7:  Gangotri to Dehradun

Drive towards Dehradun, this requires 8 hours through the mountains and Bhagirathi stream to reach the city.

!!Happy Memories!!

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs for Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek

What is the best season for this trek?

The best season for Nandanvan’s journey is from May to mid-October.

Is this trek doable for ladies, solo travelers, and beginners?

Indeed, all the Himalayan paths are ok for ladies solo travelers as well as beginners.

Can kids do this trek?

It is suggested for 15+ age. Nandanvan is a high-elevation trek which isn’t reasonable for kids under 15 years.

Is it necessary to hire a guide for this Trek?

Yes, it is recommended to hire a guide for this trek whether you are trekking solo or in a group.

What is the best time to go for Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek?

The best time to go for Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek is from May to June and September to October.

How difficult is the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek?

The Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek is a moderate to difficult level trek, with some steep climbs and rocky terrain.

What is the total distance of the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek?

The total distance of the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek is around 44 km.

What is the maximum altitude reached during the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek?

The maximum altitude reached during the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek is 4,463 meters at Tapovan.

What kind of weather can be expected during the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek?

The weather during the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek can be unpredictable, with sunny days, cold nights, and occasional rain or snowfall.

Are there any permits required for the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek?

Yes, permits are required for the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek, which can be obtained from the Forest Department at Gangotri.

Is it safe to trek to Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan?

Yes, it is safe to trek to Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan, provided that you follow proper safety guidelines and trek with a licensed and experienced guide.

What kind of accommodation facilities are available during the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek?

Basic accommodation facilities like tents and guesthouses are available during the Gangotri Nandavan Tapovan Trek.