The name of the place says it all, “Tapovan”. It means a sacred and serene place, where the sages meditate for spiritual bliss. Take the Tapovan Trek to see the combination of nature and spirituality.  Tapovan is a high altitude Alpine meadow, situated at the base of Mount Shivling , on the west bank of the Gangotri glacier. Tapovan is base camp for Shivlinga peak in Uttarakhand hills. The Tapovan trek takes one to the Gomukh at the Gangotri glacier which is the source of River Ganga, the most sacred river in the Hindu religion. Sadhus come here to pay tribute to Lord Shiva and River Ganga. It is said that King Bhagiratha of the Ikshvaku dynasty, meditated here to Shiva for Ganga’s descent to earth. The valley, flanked by majestic Himalayan peaks like Mt. Shivling, Mt. Meru and Kedar Dome is a favourite destination for trekking enthusiasts, both Indian and foreign. The Bhagirathi Group of peaks are visible on the eastern bank of Gangotri glacier.
 

Adventure lovers will love the Tapovan trek as it involves mountain climbing, rock climbing and exploring the glaciers. The glacier is the geographical origin of the Ganges located at a distance of 18 km from Gangotri, following a steady uphill trek. Here Ganga is known as ‘Bhagirathi’. A dip in its icy waters is almost a must for pilgrims. This trek is popular with both pilgrims as well as avid- trekkers. Along with the thrill of exploring nature, the glaciers, you might discover your own inner self in this magical land of spirituality.
 

ITINERARY:                  
                                                                                              

Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri (240 km | 7-8 hrs via drive | 3,415 m)​
Arrive at Dehradun on your own. Drive from Dehradun to Gangnani via Uttarkashi. Gangnani is popularly known for its beautiful hot springs. Then drive along the banks of river Bhagirathi on a beautiful ridge road through Deodar and Dhanolti groves. After a beautiful mountain drive reach Gangotri and check in to the guesthouse. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.

Day 2: Gangotri to Chirbasa (7.9 km | 6-7 hrs trek)​
After breakfast start trekking to Chirbasa along the river Bhagirathi. The trail is laden with numerous varieties of flora and fauna. The trek will continue for an entire day almost, by evening you will reach Chirbasa after trekking for 9 km in 6 hours. Overnight stay in camps.

Day 3: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (4 km | 3-4 hrs)​
After you cross Chirbasa, the terrains becomes desolate and barren. Pass through beautiful lush green forest trail with the view of majestic Neelkanth peak on the way, which will leave you in awe. As you get closer to Bhojbasa you will start feeling the chilly wind touching your face. Reach the campsite at Bhojbasa by late afternoon. You will have time to explore the surrounding area. Enjoy the enchanting sunset on Bhagirathi ranges and have your dinner. Overnight stay at the camps.

Day 4: Bhojbasa to Tapovan via Gaumukh
Rise and shine with the stunning sunrise view from your camps. Have your breakfast and start your trek to Tapovan through Gaumukh, the source of Ganga River. Gaumukh is where the water of Ganga River trickles down from the glaciers. Trek through grassy meadows, rocks and boulders, sandy beaches sheltered by enormous piles of granite. After a steep climb, the surrounding peaks will become clearer. Tapovan is known for its beautiful meadows and as the base camp for the Shivling peak. You might spot herds of Blue mountain goat which is a very common sight here. The views from this place are majestic. Have dinner at the campsite and stay overnight.

Day 5: Rest Day at Tapovan​
Today morning, you are free to explore the nearby area at your own leisure. This day is basically free for you to acclimatize to the high-altitude. You will amazed to explore the land as it mostly houses varieties of flora and fauna, and striking snow-peak mountains. The majestic Bhagirathi peaks are also visible, which have some of the hardest climbing routes in the world. For a great time, you can trek to Meru glacier and come back to your campsite.

Day 6: Tapovan to Bhojbasa​
It’s time to trace the trail back. After breakfast start trekking downhill to Bhojbasa. Your trek will end at Bhojbasa. Reach by evening and overnight stay at the guesthouse.

Day 7: Bhojbasa to Gangotri​

Today get up early in the morning and begin the trek to Gangotri. On reaching, stay overnight at the guesthouse.

Day 8: Gangotri to Dehradun

Early morning after breakfast, leave for Dehradun for your return journey.