We use cookies to improve your website experience and provide more personalized services to you, both on this website and through other media. By continuing to use this website, you agree to our use of cookies as explained in our Cookie Policy. Please read our Cookie Policy for more information on how we use cookies and how you can disable them.
Har Ki Dun is a valley of unparalleled beauty in the western part of the Garhwal Himalayas. It is famously known as the "Valley of Gods" because it offers a breathtaking view of snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows. The trek to Har ki dun starts at Sankri, nearly a 10-hour drive from Dehradun. The trek passes through ancient villages and rhododendron and oak forests, making it a truly enchanting experience.
The highlight of the Har Ki Dun trek is that it allows one to see unique flora and fauna. In this valley, one can find many rare animals like Bharal (blue sheep), birds, and wildflowers. The captivating view of snow-capped peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag makes it a popular tourist trekking destination.
One can indulge in plenty of activities while on the Har Ki Dun trek. One can go fishing in the nearby streams, explore the local flora and fauna on a nature walk, or play adventure sports like rock climbing and rappelling. There are cultural activities in which tourists can take part, such as visiting ancient temples and traditional villages. For a more spiritual experience, there are meditation and yoga centres in the area.
Har ki Dun is in the western part of the Garhwal Himalayas, in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It lies between a range of snow-capped peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch at an altitude of 3,566 meters above sea level.
The mystical beauty of Har Ki Dun in the Garhwal Himalayas is unparalleled. The valley is a paradise for trekkers with its lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains. This moderate-grade trek offers breathtaking views of some of India's highest peaks, including Swargarohini Peak, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag.
The trek passes through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron and stunning alpine meadows with spectacular views of snow-covered peaks. Along the way, travellers also visit small villages like Seema and Ruinsara Tal, where they can experience Garhwal's local culture and customs.
The weather in the valley can vary greatly, depending on the time of year and altitude. In summer, temperatures range from cool to mild during the day and dip down too cold at night. During winter, temperatures can get quite low, with snowfall common from November through March.
Although it can get cold during winter, snowfall rarely interferes with trekking routes. The days are usually sunny, with cloud cover in the late afternoon and evenings. The average temperature ranges from 6–15 degrees Celsius (43–59 Fahrenheit).
According to Hindu mythology, it is believed to be a mythical land visited by the Pandavas from Mahabharata during their exile. The story goes that Arjun and his brothers came here searching for peace and relaxation. They were amazed at the beauty of this valley, with its high peaks and green meadows. The Pandavas stayed here for some days and made many friends in the mountains.
It is said that during their stay in Har ki Dun, they prayed to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who blessed them with spiritual knowledge, strength, and courage to fight against the Kauravas in the great battle of Mahabharata.
Another story related to Har ki Dun is that it was one of the locations on Yudhishthira's Ashwamedha yagya. This yagya was done by Pandavas to prove their supremacy and strength.
It was first discovered by British surveyors in 1884 during the Great Trigonometric Survey of India. The area has since become popular for its untouched natural beauty and is now a part of the Govind National Park.
For centuries, the mountain has been revered by locals as a sacred place. The name comes from two Kumaoni words, "Har," which means "snow," and "Dun," which means a deep valley. The area offers some of the most spectacular views in India, with snow-capped Himalayan peaks, green valleys and meadows, clear rivers, and pristine forests.
Har ki Dun, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, can be reached by various means of transportation. The closest airport to Har Ki Dun is Jolly Grant Airport, located in Dehradun, about 224 km away.
One can also take a direct bus from Dehradun to Sankri, the nearest village to Har Ki Dun. The journey by road takes around 8–10 hours, depending on the traffic.
Alternatively, you can hire a taxi from Dehradun or Mussoorie to reach Har Ki Dun. It will take around 6–7 hours, depending on the traffic.
Another option is to take a train to Dehradun and then take a bus or taxi. This will take around 8-9 hours, depending on train timings and traffic.
Once you reach Sankri, you can hire a local jeep or car to reach the Har Ki Dun campsite, which will take around 4–5 hours. It is advisable to start early in the morning from Sankri.
The most popular eateries near Har ki Dun include cafes, restaurants, dhabas (street-side eateries), small local shops, and tea stalls. Most of these restaurants and cafes serve traditional Indian cuisine, including dishes made with local ingredients. Some restaurants offer western-style food.
Local delicacies include the Garhwali Thali (a platter of traditional dishes), Bhatt Ki Churkani (flour dumplings smothered in yoghurt sauce), and Kaapa (a dish made with potatoes, spices, and yoghurt).
When travelling to Har ki Dun, it is also recommended to try the local tea stalls for a cup of herbal chai or masala chai. These tea stalls offer steaming hot cups of traditional Indian chai flavoured with saffron, ginger, cardamom, and other spices.
The Har Ki Dun trek is a moderate difficulty level trek that lasts for 5 days. It begins at Sankri village in Uttarakhand, with the first day of the trek being an acclimatisation day. The trek then moves onto Taluka, Ruinsara Taal, Kalkatiyadhar, Har Ki Dun, and Osla before returning to Sankri.
The trek is a combination of easy ascent with some steep sections at times and provides a scenic view throughout. The trek also passes through ancient villages like Kalu, Seema, and Osla, which offer a fine insight into the traditional culture of the Garhwal region.
The trek culminates at the summit of Har ki Dun valley, also known as the 'Valley of Gods'. The view from this point and the descent are spectacular. It is said that one can catch sight of many snow-clad peaks, including Swargarohini I, II, and III (the mythological route to heaven) from here.
Har ki Dun is a popular trekking destination, and several accommodation options cater to various budgets.
For luxury travellers, Camp Har-ki-dun by Himalayan Eco Lodges offers stunning views in an idyllic setting, with gourmet cuisine and comfortable rooms. The Snow View Hotel and Himalayan Resort are also great options for luxury travellers.
For budget travellers, there are various camping sites available in the area, as well as homestays and hostels. Popular budget accommodation options include the Base Camp Café & Homestay, which offers basic private rooms and dorms; The View Point Hotel, which offers basic rooms and dorms; and the GMVN Tourist Bungalow, a government-run guest house with rooms for budget travellers.
However, if you are trekking independently without an organised tour or guide, it is best to stay in homestays run by local families, as these offer great insight into the local culture and hospitality.
Har ki Dun is one of the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand. It offers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas and stunning meadows, perfect trekking and camping opportunities. The area is also home to some rare species of flora and fauna, making it a great place for nature lovers. Har ki Dun is also known for its spiritual significance, as it has been a popular pilgrimage spot for centuries. The area is renowned for its ancient temples and shrines, which still attract visitors worldwide.
Apart from trekking and camping, Har ki Dun is an ideal place for bird watching with its wide variety of migratory and local birds. The stunning snow-capped mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, crystal clear streams, and lush green meadows make it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
In all, Har ki Dun is a must-visit destination.
The best time to trek to Har Ki Dun Valley is between April and October, as the weather during these months is pleasant and perfect for a leisurely walk in this beautiful valley.
Har Ki Dun Valley is a moderate trek, ideal for beginner-level trekkers. Although the trek can get slightly strenuous at times, it is still considered easy compared to other Himalayan treks.
The trek usually takes around 5–6 days to complete, depending on your pace and the weather conditions.
During the trek, you can stay in tents or homestays as accommodation facilities are limited. In some parts of the valley, campsites have also been set up.
You can get a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Snacks, such as momos, noodles, etc., can be bought at certain points during the trek.
