Tapovan Travel Guide

Tapovan, the meditational place of the ascetics, is in lush, dense grasslands that are one of the best high-altitude grasslands of India. Tapovan originated from two Sanskrit roots ‘tapas’ meaning penance or severe meditation and ‘van’ meaning forest. Traditionally, in India, the places where ascetics and great sages engaged in spiritual awakening were known as Tapovan. It is at an elevation of 4,463 meters above sea level and is at the foot of the shivling peak, thus, serving as the home to several sadhus in huts and caves.

Tapovan Mythology

According to the Hindu Mythology, King Bhagiratha of the Ikshavaku Dynasty meditated here to Lord Shiva for Ganga’s descent to the Earth.

Main Attractions

Nandavan: a beautiful place near Tapovan which is a hub for many pilgrims and travelers.
Gaumukh: The source of River Ganga.
Gangotri Temple
Gangotri National Park

Best time to visit – June – November.
Keep someone in your family and friends informed about your trek and travel in groups.
It is wise to check with tour operators, guides, and local authorities about the road conditions and weather, especially during monsoon, before beginning your trek.
It is advisable to plan your trip with an experienced trekking guide.
Due to the extensive retreat of the glacier Gangotri, only 100 persons can trek to Gaumukh in a day.

Tapovan Trek Suggested Itinerary

Complete Itinerary Given Below:

Day 01: Dehradun – Uttarkashi

You can reach Dehradun via roadways, or airways. After early morning breakfast, drive to Uttarkashi from Dehradun. On the way, you will find the Tehri Dam lake and several scenic views. Overnight stay at Gangotri.

Day 02: Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Chirbasa (Trek – 8Km)

Wake up to the beautiful sunrise and after darshan at Maa Ganga and having a hearty breakfast meal, start the trek across the Bhagirathi river, on a well-marked trail to Chirbasa. This trek has beautiful forests, walks on the side of the mountains. Set your camps at Chirbasa and have an overnight stay.

Day 03: Chirbasa – Bhojwasa – Gaumukh – Tapovan (Trek – 14 Km)

Post Breakfast initiates your trek towards River Ganges. On this trek, you will be able to enjoy the scenic views of Mt. Shivling and Bhagirathi. After a 9Km trek, you will reach Gaumukh, and next Tapovan, pitch your tents for the night and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Day 04: Tapovan – Chirbasa (Trek – 14 Km)

Start your day with a view of Gangotri. After a swift 5Km trek you will reach Tapovan from where you will be able to see a panoramic view of Mt. Shivling, Mt. Meru and Kedar Dom, Sudarshant, and Bhagirathi 1,2, and 3.