• Trek from Gangotri accompanied by the sounds of the Ganga and the fresh air of the mountains.

• Transfer across the Bhagirathi River using the Bhairav Ghati Bridge, with GMVN Lodge as a point of reference.

• Wander across ashrams and ascend through peaceful oak, rhododendron, and pine woods reaching later on stunning views from the top.

• Arrive at Bhoj Kharak (9,500 ft) around the afternoon; establish a tent and adjust yourself for the night.

DETAILED ITINERARY:

As we roll out of our sleeping bags on the first morning of the Kedartal trek, the sounds of the ever-flowing Ganga River and the delightful strong mountain air welcomes us. For today is the day when we start our journey, with our first leg taking us from Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak, the base for our tent for the night. It can be complimented as the journey starts with an advance by crossing the Bhagirathi River through the Bhairav Ghati Bridge. Before we trace the trail further, you will see the landmark of the GMVN lodge to the right. Steadily as we progress, the devotees of yesteryears and quiet ashrams to which they now belong, enhancing the spiritual significance of the walk, can be seen along the pathways.

The path continues to rise as we continue our journey into the more elevated parts of the Himalayas. After covering about 200 meters, we bend to the right which is up along the side of yet another ashram. Then we have a wooded area which is much more inclined than the previous. The very well-defined track passes through picturesque oaks, rhododendrons, and pine forests providing great views and chances of spotting some animals. The difficulty of the upward movement increases as we trek on but the sight of the Head of Bhoj Kharak, 9500 feet above sea level, is indeed encouraging. In the late afternoon, we advance to our campsite and prepare for night's rest as well as for climate adjustment.

• Wake up early to begin the hardest section of the trek, where you’ll head to the emerald lake at 16,116 ft. 

• The way is rough, dry, and steep with a chance of snow or rain due to erratic conditions. Though there are cairns to indicate the way, the chances of losing the way are very high due to the rock-studded and twisted nature of the land.

•  After 5 to 6 hours, reach the lake with the sight of Thalaysagar Peak looming over.

DETAILED ITINERARY:

Mostly on this day, the trekkers’ enthusiasm is highest as they look forward to reaching the emerald lake which offsets the tiredness endured during the earlier days’ treks.

Why you need to start early on this stretch is because it is the most difficult of all. It is also noted that ‘Tal’ which is at an elevation of 16,116 ft about 5 km from Kedar Kharak is a climb over barren, rocky, and treeless mountains.

Though quite inexplicably dry, the landscape can be breathtaking. With more uphill movements than downhill ones, the geography makes it physically demanding because one must consider the unpredictable weather conditions. There is a high chance of snowfall as well as rain during this period. This terrain is perhaps best characterized as a convoluted mass of rocks, with one or two minor streams far away so that we are forced to bring enough water with us. Some words are required explanation, ‘terrain’.

One can easily go around in circles and not notice that the route is wrong after some time. Therefore, many cairns, which are piles of stones, have been erected along the way to the Tal to indicate where the right places are. Be careful where you put your feet as there are numerous loose rocks on the way. After 5-6 hours of trekking and reaching a distance of half a kilometer from the lake, you can view the towering Thalaysagar 

• You may now begin making your way back to Gangotri and start by taking breakfast as you start returning happily along your footsteps. 

• The return trek may take less time since the majority of the trail is on a decline. 

• Take care of loose stones while you are coming down. 

• Relish the last view of the beautiful views as you come back to Gangotri.

DETAILED ITINERARY: 

Set out for the descent to Gangotri, immediately after breakfast. Retrace your steps with joy as you get a last glimpse of the locations. Since most of the trail is descending, it should take less time to reach. Take note of the loose rocks along the trail.

• The distance from Gangotri to Dehradun is 242 km and it takes close to 8hrs. The journey time may vary depending on road conditions and the breaks taken.

• View the towering plains of the Himalayan mountain, valleys, and the Ganga while making your return from the mountains. 

• Pass through the sacred city of Rishikesh with temples & ghats and a spiritual touch on the banks of the Ganges. 

• The trip ends with a gentle descent through the last setting of foothills into the calm region of Dehradun.

DETAILED ITINERARY:

The trip from Gangotri to Dehradun is approximately 242 km, which takes about 8 hours, but can be slightly less or longer, depending on the condition of the roads and how many stops are made to rest along the way. The journey from Gangotri heavily features views of the Himalayas, vegetation-dense valleys, and the Ganges. As you get off the peaks, the road starts to dip and leave the mountains before reaching the town of Uttarkashi, where you can stop for a short rest if necessary.

As you move ahead in your journey there are signs of development as the mountains dissipate and floodplains, fields, forests, and other forms of wildlife start to emerge. Furthermore, the journey takes you through Rishikesh, a holy town along the banks of the river Ganges, adorned with temples and ghats. From Rishikesh onwards, the stretch till Dehradun has downhill slopes passing through the foothills. Once you reach Dehradun, the tranquil surroundings of the city are ready to welcome you, signaling the end of the captivating trip.