[ssambyal1980]

Despite the treacherous geographical conditions the state of Uttarakhand has a magnetic attraction and a rustic charm attached to it, which pulls the adventure seekers, holidayers and nature lovers to its beautiful valleys surrounded by towering Himalayan Peaks. The hill state is basically divided into two regions i.e Garhwal and Kumaon. Apart from being home to a number of breathtakingly beautiful hill stations, the state is also a major pilgrimage centre with the Char Dhams (Four Pilgrimage Centres) of the Himalayas being located here. These Dhams are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. Despite being pilgrimage centres these Char Dhams can also be visited from tourism point of view, as they offer the most pristine Himalayan experience. These four centres are scattered far apart from each other and by visiting them, one gets to experience more than half of Uttarakhand.

This trip of ours to Uttarakhand was undertaken in the year 2012. Although that was a few years ago but nonetheless the travel stories always invoke nostalgia and hence can be shared anytime. So coming back to the trip, initially we had planned to cover all the four Dhams in one go but during the detailed planning it was decided that it would be better not to rush. Hence finally it was decided to have two trips, wherein Yamunotri and Gangotri would be covered in the first trip, whereas Kedarnath and Badrinath in the second trip.

Itinerary of the trip was decided as follows:
Day 1: Chandigarh - Janki Chatti (Driving).
Day 2: Janki Chatti - Yamunotri- Janki Chatti (Trekking).
Day 3: Janki Chatti - Gangotri (Driving).
Day 4: Gangotri - Bhojbasa (Trekking).
Day 5: Bhojbasa - Gaumukh Glacier - Bhojbasa (Trekking).
Day 6: Bhojbasa - Gangotri (Trekking).
Day 7: Gangotri - Rishikesh (Driving).
Day 8: Rishikesh - Chandigarh (Driving Via Dehradun).

Finally after the usual customary planning we were ready to roll out. Our vehicle for the trip was the people's car i.e a Maruti 800.

Day 1: 11th June, 2012 Chandigarh to Janki Chatti : 282 kms

Route Map Day 1:


We started off at 0800Hrs and after crossing Raipur Rani and Narayangarh entered Himachal Pradesh at Kala Amb. After bypassing the District Headquarter Town of Nahan, we proceeded towards to the holy town of Paonta Sahib.

Entered Himachal Pradesh at Kala Amb.


Bypassed the town of Nahan.


By 1100Hrs reached the town of Paonta Sahib, located on the banks of River Yamuna and is famous for a historic Gurudwara dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji.





Views of Yamuna River and bridge from Gurudwara premises. The river acts as a natural boundary between the states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.



After crossing the bridge over River Yamuna, we entered Uttarakhand and after a drive of 15 mins made our tea/snacks stopover at Asan Barrage at 1135 Hrs. The Asan Barrage is a barrage in the Uttarakhand-Himachal Pradesh border region in Doon Valley of Dehradun District. It is situated at the confluence of the Eastern Yamuna Canal and the Asan River and is a good picnic spot for a weekend outing.

Asan Barrage


Started off again by 1205 Hrs and after crossing the twin towns Herbertpur and Vikasnagar reached a place known by the name of Yamuna Bridge at 1340 Hrs.

The hill ascent starts after leaving Vikasnagar.


At Yamuna Bridge.





By 1700 Hrs we reached the town of Barkot a little ahead from which there is an intersection on the highway, with one road leading to Yamunotri and the other to Gangotri. Continued heading towards Janki Chatti, the last road head and base for trek to Yamunotri. On the way crossed River Yamuna again, which by now has been reduced to a stream.





The road from Barkot to Janki Chattiis narrow at places, which lead to traffic jams. Finally we reached our destination for the day at 1945 Hrs and checked into a lodge located on the highway.

Our halt a Janki Chatti.


After dinner we called it a day by 2300 Hrs.

[ssambyal1980]

Day 2: 12th June, 2012 Janki Chatti to Yamunotri and back: 12 kms (Trekking)

By 0800 Hrs we started our trek towards Yamunotri (Elv 3,291 meters), which is situated at distance of 6 kms from Janki Chatti (Elv 2,650 meters). The trek is of a moderate level as the ascent is not too steep and the route is also a fairly metalled one. Had our breakfast on the way and by 1115 Hrs we reached Yamunotri, the origin of River Yamuna

About Yamunotri: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yamunotri (Courtesy Wikipedia)

The trek starts from the side of the highway at Janki Chatti.



View of Janki Chatti on the way towards Yamunotri.



A beautiful waterfall on the way.


First views of Yamunotri and Yamuna Temple.


River Yamuna is seen flowing as a waterfall behind the temple.



River Yamuna originates from glaciers high up in the mountains above Yamunotri.




We stayed at Yamunotri for a good 2 hours and explored the surroundings. Started our return trek by 1315 Hrs and had lunch on the way. Finally reached our lodge by 1600 Hrs. In all it took us 5 Hrs 50 Mins (3 Hrs 15 Mins Uphill + 2 Hrs 35 Mins Downhill) for trekking the entire route to and fro.

View of the snow capped peaks from the lodge.


As we had enough time at our disposal so we lazed around for an hour and then planned for next day's travel. Had our dinner by 2000Hrs and called it a day by 2200 Hrs. That was the end of second day of the trip.

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Day 3: 13th June, 2012 Janki Chatti to Gangotri: 238 kms

Route Map Day 3:


We left around 0800Hrs and took the turn on highway for Gangotri near Barkot by 1000Hrs.


Had the car refuelled at Dharasu and proceeded towards the District Headquarter Town of Uttarkashi. Reached Uttarkashi by 1430Hrs and stopped for lunch and resumed our journey by 1500Hrs. About 50% of the road between Uttarkashi and Gangotri was unmetalled and broken due to landslides, as such speed got reduced to 30 km/h.

A hydel project on the way.


The road was quite narrow at places.


The sheep had the right of way.




By 1850 Hrs reached Sukhi Top the highest point between Uttarkashi and Harsil.

Snow capped peaks now appeared to be near.


Reached Harsil village by 1910 Hrs, the valley is widest at this point.


Choppers used to ferry the tourists and pilgrims from Gangotri town to Gaumukh Glacier are parked at Harsil Helipad.


After crossing Bhairon Ghati finally reached Gangotri at 2045 Hrs. Check into a lodge and after having dinner we retired by 2200 Hrs. That was the end of third day of the trip.

[ssambyal1980]

Day 4: 14th June, 2012 Gangotri to Bhojbasa: 14 kms (Trekking)

Route Map for Day 4, 5 & 6 (Trekking):


Link to information about Gangotri: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gangotri (Source: Wikipedia)

After completing the registration formalities by 0930Hrs, we started off for trek to Bhojbasa which passes through the Gangotri National Park. Trek to Bhojbasa passes through beautiful valley with dense pine forests, swiftly flowing River Ganga surrounded by towering snow capped mountains. The difficulty level of the trek is moderate and anyone who is doing physically fit can comfortably undertake it. The altitude rises from 3,100 meters at Gangotri to 4000 meters at Gaumukh Glacier

Morning hustle bustle at Gangotri.



View of Gangotri Temple.


View of River Ganga flowing through Gangotri Town.




The trek starts.


By 1005 Hrs we reached the entrance of Gangotri National Park. Here the permit for the trek which was obtained from registration office at Gangotri is checked before being allowed to proceed further.

Entry to Gangotri National Park.


At number of points on the way, the trek was littered with stones.


The valley is surrounded by towering snow capped peaks.



With increase in altitude the Ganga turned into a stream due to decrease in water discharge.



The hues of blue, green and grey were simply mesmerizing.


On the way crossed small streams through bridges made of tree logs.



Beautiful valley of the mighty Ganges.



At a number of points the trail was quite scary due to deep gorges on the either side.

[ssambyal1980]

Day 4: Continued...

High mountains have a perennial spell of snow year round.


Had to tread through boulders at many places.


By 1400 Hrs after covering half of the total distance for the day we reached Chirbasa which is a camping site on Gangotri-Bhojbasa trek and stopped for having snacks which we were carrying, it included biscuits, chocolates and aerated drinks for instant energy.

A little rest after refreshments.


Views around continued to lure us all day.





Came across many prominent Himalayan peaks on the way. They were Shivling Peak (Elv 6,543 meters), Bhrigupanth Peak (Elv 6,772 meters) and Bhagirathi Peaks (Group of 3 peaks).

View of Bhrigupanth peak.



On the way came across Ibex the wild Himalayan Goat.



Many points on the way are prone to rockslides and shooting stones.




The snowy peaks had an aura of mystery around them.


There were scary gorges along the trek.


After covering a long and tiring distance of 14 kms in 7 Hrs 45 Mins finally we reached Bhojbasa (Elv 3,800 meters) by 1715 Hrs.

Views of Bhojbasa .



We took refuge for the night in a tented accommodation being run by volunteers and disciples of a late sage. The name of the camp was Shri Ram Baba Yogashram. After settling down we explored the area around the camp.

View of Bhagirathi Peaks amidst clouds from Bhojbasa.


There was meteorological observatory at Bhojbasa for monitoring Gangotri Glacier..


As we all were tired so after having dinner we called it a day by 2130 Hrs. That was the end of day four of the trip.

[ssambyal1980]

Day 5: 15th June, 2012 Bhojbasa - Gaumukh - Bhojbasa: 8 kms (Trekking)

Got up at 0700 Hrs in the morning and after breakfast we were ready to move by 0830 Hrs. The itinerary for the day was trekking from Bhojbasa to Gangotri Glacier at Gaumukh and back.

Link to information about Gangotri Glacier: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gangotri_Glacier (Source: Wikipedia)

Bhrigupanth Peak looked majestic in the morning sun.



Our camp halt at Bhojbasa.


Shivling Peak as seen from Bhojbasa.



The entire route from Bhojbasa till the snout of Gangotri Glacier was rocky and tough to walk on. At times it was difficult to make out the path through the boulders.






Looking back towards Bhojbasa.




Panoramic view of Bhagirathi Peaks.


Met some more Ibex on the way to Glacier.


Close up shot of Shivling Peak.


Close up shots of Bhagirathi Peaks.



In the midst of barren beauty.



Closing in towards the Glacier.

[ssambyal1980]

Day 5: Continued...

As we were closing in towards the glacier the trek was getting difficult with each step. The last half kilometer stretch of the trek was the toughest one with virtually no path to walk on. The walk from hereon was through rocks and boulders, one wrong step and you are done.




Officially the trek ends at this very point. From here on the last stretch of 500 meters is the toughest one.




When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.









It was difficult to differentiate between rock and ice at the glacier as both were camouflaged with each other.


Closing in further.





At 1145 Hrs after an arduous climb of 3 Hrs 10 Mins we reached the snout of Gangotri Glacier, the origin of the mighty and the most revered river the world, the Ganges.





River Ganga flows out from beneath the Gangotri Glacier.


Ice or Rock?


Stayed at the Glacier for about 1 Hr 30 Mins and then started off for return journey towards Bhojbasa by 1230 Hrs. After a downhill walk of 2 Hrs 30 Mins reached our camp halt by 1500 Hrs and retired into our tents for a much deserved rest. Got up by 1730 Hrs in the evening and savoured the nature's bounty till sunset. After dinner went to sleep by 2200 Hrs so as to recharge ourselves for next day's trek back to Gangotri Town.

[ssambyal1980]

Day 6: 16th June, 2012 Bhojbasa to Gangotri: 14 kms (Trekking)

After breakfast we rolled out at 0845 Hrs. As the day's trek was downhill so we expected to cover it in around 6 Hrs time.
On the way we as usual enjoyed the beautiful views around as the day was sunny.

View of Bhojbasa.


Snow capped peaks shined brightly in sunshine.





Tourists on their way up to Bhojbasa.


A camping site on the route.





Finally reached Gangotri Town at 1515 Hrs. It took 6 Hrs 30 Mins to cover the trek downhill. After rest explored the town in the evening. The whole area was bustling with tourists and pilgrims.

Sat by the riverside in the evening.


Had dinner by 2100 Hrs and the chit chat continued till 2300 Hrs. Finally called it a day by 2330 Hrs.

[ssambyal1980]

Day 7: 17th June, 2012 Gangotri to Rishikesh: 270 kms (Driving)

Started off for the day at 0830 Hrs and reached the town of Uttarkashi by 1330 Hrs.





Well said!!!


Stopped for refuelling at Dharasu and continued with drive towards Rishikesh via Chamba Town.

View of Tehri reservoir from Dharasu-Chamba highway.


Reached Rishikesh at 1930 Hrs and checked into a hotel. That was the end of day seven of the trip.

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Day 8: 18th June, 2012 Rishikesh to Chandigarh: 212 kms (Driving)

Route Map for Day 8:


After getting ready for the day, explored the locales of Rishikesh town.

The famous Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge.




Ganga flows calmly at Rishikesh.



Quenching Thirst!!!



We started for the day's journey at 0930 Hrs. After crossing Dehradun and Herbertpur, stopped enroute for lunch at Asan Barrage, the very place where we had stopped for breakfast on day one of the trip. After crossing Paonta Sahib, by passed Nahan and entered plains near Narayangarh. Finally reached the base at 1600 Hrs. That was the end of an adventurous trip to two of the four Dhams of Uttarakhand.

[GTO]

Thread moved from the Assembly Line to Travelogues. Thanks for sharing!

[spgv]

Superb Travelogue thanks for sharing.
The water at gomukh looks muddy in pictures, is it really that way? You guys are wearing T shirts even at the mouth of glacier, is it not chilly out there?

[ssambyal1980]

Originally Posted by spgv

Superb Travelogue thanks for sharing.
The water at gomukh looks muddy in pictures, is it really that way? You guys are wearing T shirts even at the mouth of glacier, is it not chilly out there?

Thanks mate. The reason for muddy waters at the source is largely due to rockslides and erosion of soil, as the area is devoid of any vegetation due to high altitude. Also the rubbing of the glacier against the boulders leads to their weathering. As regards feeling cold is concerned, we were comfortable in T-Shirts as it was noon, with sun shining brightly at the zenith and the temperature was around 15 degrees celsius. Moreover we were quite warmed up after trekking.

[bordeaux]

Awesome travelogue sir. Beautiful pictures. I don't see many people (crowds) in your pictures. I was expecting huge crowds since these places are of high religious importance. Were there not many people for real or you managed to keep them out of your shots?

[ssambyal1980]

Originally Posted by bordeaux

Awesome travelogue sir. Beautiful pictures. I don't see many people (crowds) in your pictures. I was expecting huge crowds since these places are of high religious importance. Were there not many people for real or you managed to keep them out of your shots?

Thanks. There were a lot of pilgrims and tourists at Gangotri Town but very few people visit the source of River Ganga i.e the Gangotri Glacier at Gaumukh. The primary reason is the long and arduous trek that one has to undertake from Gangotri to Gaumukh. Moreover only 150 persons are allowed to proceed from Gangotri towards Gaumukh everyday. This is a standard operating procedure which is followed in order to ensure safety of the pilgrims and tourists. The entire trek is narrow with steep falls on either sides and barely two people can pass side by side. We did most of the photography along the trek with very few people going towards the glacier.

[Nempuguru]

Great accomplishment. Good to see 800 reaching greater heights. Wish you cover other two Dhams as well in near future (if not covered already).

Thanks for sharing Gangotri glacier trek experience, valuable info, also for the photos.

[ssambyal1980]

Originally Posted by Nempuguru

Great accomplishment. Good to see 800 reaching greater heights. Wish you cover other two Dhams as well in near future (if not covered already). Thanks for sharing Gangotri glacier trek experience, valuable info, also for the photos.

Thanks for the appreciation. Have covered all the four Dhams in Uttarakhand and would be coming up with the travelogue of Kedarnath and Badrinath trip shortly.