THE HANGING VALLEY
About the Trek
Just like not all those who wander are lost, it is truly a great feeling to be lost in the right direction. Har ki dun valley lies amid the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, in the secluded northwestern corner of the Garhwal Himalayas.
“An amalgamation of the scenic beauty, ancient religion, various beliefs and legends associated to this place assuredly makes it one of the most numinous places in the country
At an elevation of approx. 3500m from sea level, it is a crib shaped hanging valley with pictorial views of the Bandarpunch massif, alpine meadows(snow covered during the winters), pine, chestnuts, chinnar and walnut forests all along the trek. Attributable to its impressive altitude and scenic views of a number of snow covered Himalayan peaks, this region has always been a favorite among trekkers for a long time now.
The valley remains snow-clad from October to March and is an outset point for more distant treks like:
1. Jaundhar Glacier
2. Maninda Tal
3. Borasu Pass
4. Baspa Valley
Itinerary 1
DAY 1
Dehradun to Kotgaon (186 km drive)
We all assemble at a predetermined location in Dehradun and begin our journey. We'll drive via picturesque hill stations with breathtaking views of the Shivaliks. As we drive further up, we'll see that conifers dominate the majority of the vegetation. We'll stop for lunch on the way. Although we've covered you for most of this voyage, make sure you have enough cash to meet your personal requirements, if any. After a 196-kilometre ride lasting 10 hours, you'll arrive at the base village of Kotgaon. Kotgaon is an old village that dates back generations. When the sun sets, you get a sunlit view of the Swargarohini range. After settling down and resting for a bit, you may use your free time to wander around and learn about the people, their culture, and their way of life. There are also houses built in the Kathkuni architectural style, which employs wood, mud, and stones to build long-lasting, earthquake-resistant structures. We'll call it a day after dinner at the guest house and prepare for the exciting days ahead of us in the woods.
DAY 2
Kotgaon to Taluka(drive) to Gangaad(8.5 km trek)
The road to Taluka is bumpy, and there are a few streams that have inundated the area in two to three places. When we reach Taluka, we take the route that leads down to the river, where we walk for a good kilometre beside the river's sandy banks before entering the deep forest. After crossing a creek, we can see a few small pagodas. We take a few seconds to collect our breath and enjoy the beauty the region has to offer. We pass by a few wooden bridges and dhabas on our route forward. We arrive at our campground for the day after some modest ascents and flat walking. After relaxing a bit, you can explore the surroundings. We will stay here for the night and resume our journey the next day.
DAY 3
Gangaad to Kalkatiya Dhar (8 km trek)
The trail today will be rough. There are a few steep portions here and there, but they are brief. We arrive at Chillur Gad as we continue trekking. On the mountain to our left, We can see two settlements divided by a bridge: Osla and Pawani. We'll see a hydromill built across a stream that has been established and is used by the locals for grinding grains like wheat and millets. There is a bridge that connects us to the other side of the river, and the river now flows to your right. We arrive in Osla, a village that transports us back in time and oozes history and culture. We'll meet a couple of the most self-sufficient individuals. They cultivate their own food, construct their own homes, and weave their own clothes. The primary draw of the town is the temple of Someshwar Devta (a manifestation of Shiva). This village's tribe was devoted to the Kauravas and held Duryodhana in high regard. Throughout the walk, we'll be able to view big streams to our right, rushing down green slopes. After descending and crossing some flat fields, we make a last ascent to the location where we will set up camp for the day.
DAY 4
Kalkatiya Dhar to HKD and back (12 km trek)
The trail today will be rough. There are a few steep portions here and there, but they are brief. We arrive at Chillur Gad as we continue trekking. On the mountain to our left, We can see two settlements divided by a bridge: Osla and Pawani. We'll see a hydromill built across a stream that has been established and is used by the locals for grinding grains like wheat and millets. There is a bridge that connects us to the other side of the river, and the river now flows to your right. We arrive in Osla, a village that transports us back in time and oozes history and culture. We'll meet a couple of the most self-sufficient individuals. They cultivate their own food, construct their own homes, and weave their own clothes. The primary draw of the town is the temple of Someshwar Devta (a manifestation of Shiva). This village's tribe was devoted to the Kauravas and held Duryodhana in high regard. Throughout the walk, we'll be able to view big streams to our right, rushing down green slopes. After descending and crossing some flat fields, we make a last ascent to the location where we will set up camp for the day.
DAY 5
Kalkatiya Dhar to Taluka to Kotgaon (16.5 km trek)
This is the last day of our journey. After breakfast and packing, we're all prepared to make our way down to Taluka, where it all began. We hope to arrive around late afternoon. After spending some great days in nature, we board the vehicle and return to Kotgaon in the comfort of our beds. After reaching, you'll have the remainder of the evening to unwind and retire post dinner.
DAY 6
Kotgaon to Dehradun (196 km drive)
On the final day of our trek, we bid farewell to the picturesque village of Kotgaon and prepare for the return journey to Dehradun. After breakfast, we leave Taluka and begin our drive back. The road may still be bumpy in some sections, but we can enjoy the scenic views of the Shivalik Mountains once again.
As we make our way down, we pass through charming hill stations and witness the conifer-dominated vegetation along the route. We'll stop for lunch on the way, ensuring we have enough cash for any personal requirements during the journey.
After a drive of approximately 196 kilometers, lasting around 10 hours, we will reach Dehradun, where our memorable trek comes to an end. We can reflect on the incredible experiences, beautiful landscapes, and the unique culture we encountered during our time in the Har Ki Doon region.
From Dehradun, you can continue your onward journey or make arrangements for accommodation and further exploration of this enchanting part of Uttarakhand.
Please note that the duration and details of the return journey may vary based on factors such as road conditions, traffic, and individual preferences. It is advisable to plan your travel accordingly and stay prepared for any unforeseen circumstances along the way.
Wishing you a safe and fulfilling journey back home, filled with fond memories of the Har Ki Doon trek and the natural wonders you encountered.
Itinerary 2
DAY 1
Dehradun to Kotgaon (186 km drive)
We all assemble at a predetermined location in Dehradun and begin our journey. We'll drive via picturesque hill stations with breathtaking views of the Shivaliks. As we drive further up, we'll see that conifers dominate the majority of the vegetation. We'll stop for lunch on the way. Although we've covered you for most of this voyage, make sure you have enough cash to meet your personal requirements, if any. After a 196-kilometre ride lasting 10 hours, you'll arrive at the base village of Kotgaon. Kotgaon is an old village that dates back generations. When the sun sets, you get a sunlit view of the Swargarohini range. After settling down and resting for a bit, you may use your free time to wander around and learn about the people, their culture, and their way of life. There are also houses built in the Kathkuni architectural style, which employs wood, mud, and stones to build long-lasting, earthquake-resistant structures. We'll call it a day after dinner at the guest house and prepare for the exciting days ahead of us in the woods.
DAY 2
Kotgaon to Dhatmeer(drive) to Gangaad(8.5 km trek)
The road to Taluka is bumpy, and there are a few streams that have inundated the area in two to three places. When we reach Taluka, we take the route that leads down to the river, where we walk for a good kilometre beside the river's sandy banks before entering the deep forest. After crossing a creek, we can see a few small pagodas. We take a few seconds to collect our breath and enjoy the beauty the region has to offer. We pass by a few wooden bridges and dhabas on our route forward. We arrive at our campground for the day after some modest ascents and flat walking. After relaxing a bit, you can explore the surroundings. We will stay here for the night and resume our journey the next day.
DAY 3
Gangaad to Kalkatiya Dhar Via Osla (8 km trek)
The trail today will be rough. There are a few steep portions here and there, but they are brief. We arrive at Chillur Gad as we continue trekking. On the mountain to our left, We can see two settlements divided by a bridge: Osla and Pawani. We'll see a hydromill built across a stream that has been established and is used by the locals for grinding grains like wheat and millets. There is a bridge that connects us to the other side of the river, and the river now flows to your right. We arrive in Osla, a village that transports us back in time and oozes history and culture. We'll meet a couple of the most self-sufficient individuals. They cultivate their own food, construct their own homes, and weave their own clothes. The primary draw of the town is the temple of Someshwar Devta (a manifestation of Shiva). This village's tribe was devoted to the Kauravas and held Duryodhana in high regard. Throughout the walk, we'll be able to view big streams to our right, rushing down green slopes. After descending and crossing some flat fields, we make a last ascent to the location where we will set up camp for the day.
DAY 4
Kalkatiya Dhar to HKD and back/Boslo (12 km trek)
The trail today will be rough. There are a few steep portions here and there, but they are brief. We arrive at Chillur Gad as we continue trekking. On the mountain to our left, We can see two settlements divided by a bridge: Osla and Pawani. We'll see a hydromill built across a stream that has been established and is used by the locals for grinding grains like wheat and millets. There is a bridge that connects us to the other side of the river, and the river now flows to your right. We arrive in Osla, a village that transports us back in time and oozes history and culture. We'll meet a couple of the most self-sufficient individuals. They cultivate their own food, construct their own homes, and weave their own clothes. The primary draw of the town is the temple of Someshwar Devta (a manifestation of Shiva). This village's tribe was devoted to the Kauravas and held Duryodhana in high regard. Throughout the walk, we'll be able to view big streams to our right, rushing down green slopes. After descending and crossing some flat fields, we make a last ascent to the location where we will set up camp for the day.
DAY 5
Kalkatiya Dhar / Boslo to Devasu Thach (10.5 km trek approx.)
Embark on an extraordinary expedition from Boslo to Devsu Thatch, where the path unfolds like a tapestry of natural wonders. Traverse through lush forests, alive with the symphony of birdcalls and the intoxicating scent of the earth. As you ascend, be captivated by the majestic snow-capped peaks, among them the legendary Swargarohini, steeped in mythical allure. Arriving at Devsu Thach's sprawling meadows, discover a picturesque landscape adorned with grazing mules and breathtaking vistas. Settle in for an unforgettable night trek beneath the celestial dome at Kalkatiyadhar campsite, where the stars illuminate the beauty of the wilderness in all its glory.
DAY 6
Devasu Thach to Dhatmeer/Taluka (14 km Trek)
Embark on a timeless journey as the trail winds through the valley, leading you to Dhatmeer/Taluka. Memories of idyllic campsites and quaint villages flood your senses, hinting at the rich tapestry of history woven into the landscape. Venture deeper into the secluded forest path, where serenity beckons and nature's beauty unfolds with every step. Finally, arrive at Dhatmeer, a sanctuary nestled amidst the wilderness, offering solace beneath the starlit sky. Here, amidst the tranquility, find inner peace as you surrender to the enchanting embrace of the natural world, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a moment of pure connection.
DAY 7
Taluka/Dhatmeer to Dehradun (196 km drive)
On the final day of our trek, we bid farewell to the picturesque village of Kotgaon and prepare for the return journey to Dehradun. After breakfast, we leave Taluka/ Dhatmeer and begin our drive back. The road may still be bumpy in some sections, but we can enjoy the scenic views of the Shivalik Mountains once again.
As we make our way down, we pass through charming hill stations and witness the conifer-dominated vegetation along the route. We'll stop for lunch on the way, ensuring we have enough cash for any personal requirements during the journey.
After a drive of approximately 196 kilometers, lasting around 10 hours, we will reach Dehradun, where our memorable trek comes to an end. We can reflect on the incredible experiences, beautiful landscapes, and the unique culture we encountered during our time in the Har Ki Doon region.
From Dehradun, you can continue your onward journey or make arrangements for accommodation and further exploration of this enchanting part of Uttarakhand.
Please note that the duration and details of the return journey may vary based on factors such as road conditions, traffic, and individual preferences. It is advisable to plan your travel accordingly and stay prepared for any unforeseen circumstances along the way.
Wishing you a safe and fulfilling journey back home, filled with fond memories of the Har Ki Doon trek and the natural wonders you encountered.
INCLUSIONS
1. All meals Ex Kotgaon (General nutritious meal )
Both during Homestays and Camp stays
2. Accommodation Ex Kotgaon at homestays and tents.
3. Forest levies and permission.
4. Alpine 4 men tents (Triple sharing), good quality sleeping bags and mattresses, toilet tents, utensils.
5. Services of an Outdoor Professional.
6. Transport from Dehradun to Kotgaon and back to Dehradun.
EXCLUSIONS
1.Meals during road transit i.e. meals during travel between Dehradun and Kotgaon and vice versa.
2.Any kind of medical Insurance.
3.Any personal expenses like extra food, gears etc.
4. Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.
5. Carriage of personal luggage during the trek.
TREK USP
