Har Ki Dun is a gorgeous and picturesque valley that is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state, India. It is referred to as the ‘Valley of Gods’ and provides a unique opportunity for a wander through the snow-covered mountains, deep woods, as well as local villages. The trek to Har Ki Dun is more than a trek as one witnesses history, stories, and scenery from a different angle. At 3,690 meters in altitude, this trek can be attempted by beginner trekkers and even experienced ones who wish to witness unadulterated vistas of the West Himalayan region.
Har Ki Dun is often called the 'Har Ki Dun King' as it the center flaunts a breathtaking beauty. The trek encompasses magnificent mountain views including Swargarohini Peak as well as Black Peak while also offering the opportunity to explore various distinct wildlife and plant species characteristic of the area. In this article, we are going to elaborate on a walk in Har Ki Dun, bringing a day-wise breakdown of the trek, equipment needed while trekking and other useful tips for any would-be traveler. Apart from that, it is also important to know which season is the best to visit Har Ki Dun to make the most of the trekking activities. Whether you are in search of thrill or peace, Harkidun Trek offers a mesmerizing experience right in the lap of the Himalayas.
Har Ki Dun's Itinerary
DAY 1- Dehradun to Sankri
The first part of the Har Ki Dun Trek is a nice drive through beautiful landscapes that begin from Dehradun and end at Sankri which is the starting point for the trek. It takes almost 8 to 10 hours to cover a distance of around 200 km. The journey includes beautiful sceneries like the river Yamuna, other towns such as Mussoorie, Kempty Falls, and Nainbagh, and reaches to its destination, Sankri village.
While trying to adjust to the changing rooftops, whilst in motion, there is the scope of appreciating the transition of the Shivalik foothills into the snaking mountains of Uttarakhand. As the eye travels towards board green hills, the enthusiasm develops into barren highland regions. Small familiar and snow-capped hills and clusters of tiny farms are seen while traveling providing the delight that awaits later in the trek.
As you arrive in Sankri, the first thing you'll do is check into the guest house or the homestay for much-needed rest after a long and tiresome journey. The body is also able to adjust to the altitude of 6400 feet and take some time off before the actual trek commences. This is a perfect time to enjoy a light yet warm meal while watching the rural area of Sankri at twilight, which is the focal point of the ancient charm of Har Ki Dun.
DAY 2- Drive from Sankri to Taluka village and then trek from Taluka to Puani Garrat
The Har Ki Dun Trek has its second day uphill while extending the trek from Sankri to Taluka which is only 12 kilometers from the earlier mentioned base. It is a comfortable drive since the view along the way is dotted by farming, green vegetation, farmlands, and small villages quite a lot in between. More so, the winding roads, the snow-capped hilltops and the steep hills of the region get a brief view from time to time. The region is a combination of peacefulness and beauty enabling every new visitor the chance to relish in the beauty of the place.
Moving to Taluka will also further expose you to another pretty village which also happens to be the last point in which any vehicles can go towards and start your trek. Taluka is a typical village that has houses scattered throughout it and is surrounded by beautiful hills and abundant alpine vegetation. It is from here that the trek begins via Har Ki Dun Trek this route goes past dense oak and deodar forests. One can constantly hear the sound of gushing water as the trail skirts the Supin River which runs almost right along it.
The distance to be covered between Puani Garaat and the athlete is expected to be about 6 – 7 km which will probably take about 4 – 5 hours based on the person’s effort in completion and rest intervals the person embarks on. The path gradually elevates from the ground level amidst green dense trees with a view of Kalanag from above.
DAY 3- Trek from Puani Garrat to Simatra
On the third day of the Har Ki Dun Trek, you will travel from Puani Garaat to Simatra with a lot of going over including Osla village, which stands out with scenic and culture. The trekking distance is rather fundamental i.e. about 12-14 km, covering in about six to seven hours, which is individualized upon the trekkers’ speed.
The first climb is steep as you leave Puani Garaat after which it becomes gradual and is charming because it is surrounded by a mature forest consisting of oak, pine, and rhododendron. The sound of birds and dancing leaves on the trail endures one’s spirit in combination with other moments. The foothills are gorgeous and the Supin River is visible throughout the journey as it flows down in the valley, which is beautiful.
Above all, Osla is a distinctive small settlement that should be on the checklist of each traveler as it offers a glimpse into the traditional Garhwali way of life. Wooden architecture is a particular trait of the village dwellers, and the local dwellings are built in the traditional shape. Besides, it is in Osla that the Duryodhana Temple is found which is dedicated to the Kaurava prince Duryodhana from the Mahabharata epic. It is an important temple of culture and belief, and going to this place helps one to comprehend the religious beliefs and practices of the local people.
The next destination in the voyage is Simatra, which is a much quieter place in the valley. From this point onwards, the terrain gets accustomed to a dual landscape that incorporates gentle slopes and depressions interspersed with fields of grass and a couple of water channels. So far, it has been an entertaining trekking safari. In the afternoon, the party reaches Simatra and may either go to a tent or a guest house for rest. After an exhausting day of walking, the haven of the ”valley of the world” is the best place one would want to engage in lucid dreaming. Besides getting as much sleep as is needed, enjoying the dinner for the evening will bring forth new insights as far as the Har Ki Dun Trek is concerned.
DAY 4- From Simatra to Har ki Dun and then back to Simatra
The Har Ki Dun trek’s 4th day will be a ‘memories-making day’ in the stunning Har Ki Dun Valley. Simatra feeds the hungry stomach and gets the little tired legs ready for the brief stretch of Har Ki Dun. It's roughly about 6-7 km away in terms of straight-line distance. It requires around 3 to 4 hours of a trek depending on the very fast or slow trekkers. Even mountains in the hilly terrain are much larger and the greater part of the climbing distance is fairly flat and goes over several lovely meadows and thick bushes, as well as upland views of handsome but breezy hills and seasonal streams.
Upon reaching Har Ki Dun, you will be greeted by one of the most idyllic scenes of the Himalayas. A serene valley has even more interesting sights like the Swargarohini range and the blue hues of the inexhaustible Har Ki Dun Lake. One can walk around the valley appreciating its calmness or head to the Jaundhar Glacier for a closer view of the impressive glaciers and the twisted peaks of the surroundings. Such untouched landscapes and breathtaking views of the area should entice and inspire everyone who comes here to take photographs and ignore the area.
After a brief break following the valley exploration, expect to set out towards Simatra around noon. The return journey is equally lovely in its own right as one heads back towards the valley of Simatra and gets to see and hear the beautiful nature once more while spending the night outdoors. Enjoy a hot drink and some food and reminisce on the picture-perfect views that you’ve just witnessed and remember their details nicely.
DAY 5- From Simatra to Puani Garrat
On the fifth day of the Marine Trek, you’ll again be making your way towards Puani Garaat from Simatra. This route is full of enchanting scenery and provides one with an opportunity to savor the beauty of the area. It is a trek with an approximate distance of between 10-12 kilometers and could take over between 5 to 6 hours to complete.
The way down begins with descending from Simatra where pine, oak and rhododendron trees can be found spread in the hills. With the descent, these trees offer some shade and coolness from the harsh sun. At this point, there will be some crossing of streams and small river beds through which water gurgles enhancing the quiet of trees and other life forms. The rugged elements around the path make it narrow at most times with rough elements which makes it challenging in a few ways – all of which the overwhelmingly beautiful nature around is worth the trouble.
Along the way, you will stroll among the colorful alpine meadows and will be able to see some of the mountains that were hidden from view by the dense trees. In the afternoon, you should arrive at Puani Garaat where you will make a camp for the evening. Enjoy the scenery of the region, with the sight of steep mountains behind you, and relax. After recovering from a particularly tiring day of great views, have a hot meal for dinner and rest for the next tour.
DAY 6- Puani Garrat to Taluka and then towards Sankri
During the Har Ki Dun Trek, Day 6 will be the day you start your return walk to Sankri from Puani Garaat. This particular stretch of the trek is roughly between 12-14 kilometers long which should take about 5 to 6 hours depending on your pace and the number of stops you take. The final stage of the trek provides a new aspect of the same features that you have earlier observed, that is the landscape of mountains, rivers, forests, and villages upon this terrain.
A gentle incline that eases downwards towards the hilly areas covered with thick forests relishing in the tranquility of the mountains and home to diverse fauna will be your next destination. The slopes are built up by inclined planes made from oak, pine, and deodar woods making the area stunning. You will be crossing numerous little rivulets and small streams which also add to the experience.
Have a brief break at Taluka, and then proceed towards the final part of the trek to Sankri. Now you will have a grand finale to the trekking as the trail has some panoramic views of the knotted landscape stretching out around the valleys and mountain tops in the scenery. Reaching Sankri, you can choose to stay for one night in one of the guest houses or a campsite of your choice or need. After the pleasant trek, one can take around a day and just unwind as you reminisce about the day during your Har Ki Dun Trek.
DAY 7- From Sankri to Dehradun
Finally, to complete your Har Ki Dun Trek, you will take a very long but very scenic drive to Dehradun. The team will aim to drive 200 km in 8 to 10 hours, taking off after an early breakfast in Sankri. It is not uncommon for many people to relish the ride, using this time to relax and reflect on the long and memorable trek that they have just returned from, perched high in the cool serenity of the Himalayas.
The highway escorted you across winding roadways of the mountains, little hamlets, step farming, and lush green horticulture. The foothills start retreating into the thickly populated regions of Uttarakhand through Nainbagh and Mussoorie. The sight starts from the Highland areas towards the base of the Shivalik Hills. Interspersed along the route are rivers and thick luxuriant woods.
Best Time to Visit Har Ki Dun
Har Ki Dun is best visited before the monsoon season (April to June) and after the monsoon season (September to November). Should these intervals be chosen, one will witness pleasing weather, moderate temperatures, and ideal trekking conditions. In spring and summer (April to June), daytime temperature fluctuates between 10 degrees to 15 degrees Celsius, which is ideal for trekking. The region is wrapped in even more golden and bright tinges during autumn (September to November) when the temperature ranges from 5C to 15C. The winter season (December to February) is very severe with ample amount of snow.
Trekking Essentials for Har Ki Dun
Footwear: Trekking boots that are robust, comfortable, and provide good support to the ankle joint are of key importance in trekking the sandy inclined parts of Har Ki Dun. Ensure that they are also water-resistant so if such wetness or snow is present in the upper areas, it is not a problem.
Clothing: Bring along base layers and fleece jackets that are moisture-wicking, and an outer shell that is waterproof and windproof. Weather in the mountains is unpredictable, therefore, being in layers should be able to give enough comfort and protection from the cold and rain.
Trekking poles: The use of trekking poles would be for improving steadiness and also for stress reduction on the knee joint segment during the steep inclined and declined walks. Also, there is a need to take a water bottle or a hydration system to remain hydrated during the trek, especially as the elevation increases.
Key Highlights of the Har Ki Dun
Thanks to its awesome natural resources and cultural heritage, the beauty of Har Ki Dun is marked. Some of the key attractions include Swargarohini and Black Peak, which have a still greater glory, these are the administrative mountains. The trek crosses alpine meadows, oak and deodar forests, and villages like Osla, where one can appreciate the local life. The calm and unspoiled Har Ki Dun Valley also called the ‘Valley of God’ offers peace to the tired feet with its ruggedness. Explorers will also be rewarded with the elusive Himalayan monal and blue river streams. The friendly landscapes throughout the trek make it one of the famous places for nature lovers.
Challenges and Tips for Trekking the Har Ki Dun
Height and Acclimatization: Har Ki Dun sits at a height of 3,566 Mts., and it is expected that certain trekkers will suffer from altitude sickness once they reach these levels. As a precaution, rest on the way, hydrate, and allow yourself time to adjust to the altitude. It is important to avoid ‘overdoing’ and pay attention to what your body is saying.
Weather and Terrain: Steep ascending and descending slopes characterize the trek combined with unfavorable and abrupt weather conditions. Be ready for sudden rain or snow, especially as one goes higher up. Take with you: waterproof clothes that are essential, and trekking poles necessary for slippery trails.
Physical Fitness: Har Ki Dun is within the range of moderate to difficult, thus some level of good physical fitness is required before attempting this trek. To be prepared for the altitude, cardio exercises with strength training and walking with a loaded backpack can be practiced. It is best to first, go for shorter hikes to improve the stamina and endurance needed for the real trek.
Conclusion
To sum up, taking the trek to Har Ki Dun is nothing short of a great experience as it provides all the needed aspects of magnificent views, cultural richness, and challenges to the individual. With adequate physical fitness, the right equipment, and an understanding of the climatic conditions, this trek is worth any treks that venture into the depths of the Himalayan region. Whichever an individual may be—an expert or a novice, the Har Ki Dun trek is ideal for anybody wishing to get acquainted with the gentleness of the Himalayas. For those requiring help and instruction, Himalayan Daredevils offers great trekking services that will assist in making this beautiful trail, a safe and unforgettable one.
