Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar glacier Valley Trek
- Uttarakhand, India
7 Days & 6 Nights
Trek Duration
12,000 ft.
Maximum Altitude
53 Kms.
Trekking Distance
Easy to Moderate
Trek Difficulty Level
Expert Leaders
Hands-On Adventure
Comfy Transport
Nutritious Meals
Adventure Safety
Leave No Trace
Departure Dates:
November - 22nd & 29th (Last Batch of the Season!)
Overview
Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley Trek: A Journey Through Nature’s Masterpiece
Perched at 12,000 ft in Garhwal’s “Valley of Gods,” Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley Trek is seven days of pure Himalayan theatre, green valleys, ancient villages, dense forests, and peaks that look Photoshopped. The trail shows off Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Jaundhar Glacier while Govind National Park keeps the wildflowers, rivers, and Himalayan Monals ready for your arrival. Whether it’s your first trek or your fiftieth, this valley has a knack for making you forget Wi-Fi exists.
Starting from Sankri, the trail takes you through oak and pine forests, alpine meadows, and villages so pretty you’ll think they’re movie sets. The Supin River hums in the background, orchids line the path, and Govind Pashu Vihar National Park keeps the wildlife surprises coming, from monals to black bears. Every turn feels like you’ve just walked into a fresh postcard!
Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley Trek Package: What to Expect
Think of it as a 7 day Himalayan crash course in beauty, culture, and survival skills. You’ll hike through green meadows, pine forests, and villages, all while peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch pose in the background. Your guide, camp meals, and permits are sorted, leaving you free to focus on learning how to pitch tents, pace your trek and provide basic first aid while also learning more about local culture.
This isn’t just a trek. It’s a masterclass in slowing down, tuning in to nature, and realizing there is more to life than Wi-Fi. Beginners and veterans alike leave a little tougher, a little wiser, and a lot more addicted to the mountains.
How to Prepare for the Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley Trek
Start by getting your legs and lungs in on the plan, some cardio and strength training go a long way at 12,000 ft. Pack smart: sturdy trekking shoes, a raincoat, warm layers, and a backpack that won’t feel like a punishment halfway up the trail. Essentials? First aid kit, sunscreen, refillable water bottle, and snacks you’ll actually want to eat mid-climb.
Travelling light is your best friend here, and if you’re missing something, Sankri has rental shops for trekking poles, sleeping bags, and other gear so you don’t have to haul the extra weight from home. A good trek package sorts out the big stuff, gear, meals, permits, leaving you free to focus on pacing yourself, breathing in the pine-scented air, and remembering the golden rule: the mountains aren’t a trash bin. Carry out what you carry in. The valley will thank you!Read More
Essential Tips for First-Time Trekkers
If it’s your first time embarking on the Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley Trek, here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Train Before You Trek – Build stamina with regular cardio exercises like brisk walking, jogging, or cycling, and strengthen your legs through squats and lunges.
- Pack Light but Smart – Carry only the essentials to avoid unnecessary strain. Prioritize warm layers, a good rain jacket, and sturdy trekking shoes.
- Hydrate Consistently – Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty, to prevent dehydration at higher altitudes.
- Acclimatize Properly – Take it slow, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
- Follow Your Guide’s Instructions – Trust the experience of your trek leaders, they know the terrain, weather patterns, and safest routes.
- Protect the Environment – Use the eco bag provided by us for all your waste and make sure the trails remain clean.
- Carry Personal Essentials – Keep sunscreen, lip balm, a small first-aid kit, and your ID handy.
- Respect Local Culture – Be mindful of traditions, customs, and privacy when interacting with locals.
- Layer Your Clothing – Instead of one heavy jacket, wear multiple light layers to adjust easily to changing temperatures.
- Enjoy the Journey – It’s not just about the destination, take in the views, connect with fellow trekkers, and truly experience the Himalayas.
Why Choose The Nativs for the Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley Trek?
At The Nativs, we don’t just take you on a trek, we immerse you in it. This is a journey where every step is part of the story, and the mountains become your classroom. You’ll learn how to move with the terrain, understand the weather, read the trails, and respect the wild. The air here carries the scent of pine and the occasional distant roar of a leopard, each having its own territory in the valley, unseen yet very much present.
We ensure you’re equipped with high-quality gear for maximum safety and comfort, so you can focus entirely on the experience rather than the hassle. And if you need anything extra, Sankri offers rental options, allowing you to travel light while still being fully prepared.
Every moment with The Nativs is designed to make you feel a part of the mountains, not just a visitor.
Sustainable Trekking: Preserving Natural Beauty
At The Nativs, adventure goes hand in hand with responsibility. We follow a strict leave-no-trace policy, use eco-friendly practices, and work with local communities to keep Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley as pure as nature intended. Each trekker is provided with an eco-bag to collect any waste during the journey, which we responsibly dispose of after the trek, ensuring our beautiful trails remain spotless. From responsible waste management to supporting local guides and homestays, every step of your journey helps preserve this valley’s magic for generations to come!
Wildlife and Nature on the Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley Trek
Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley is basically Govind Pashu Vihar National Park’s VIP section. Musk deer, Himalayan foxes, and black bears share the valley, along with leopards, each ruling their own hidden territory. You might never see one, but on a quiet night, you just might hear a distant roar echo through the mountains.
Bird lovers can spot the Himalayan monal strutting like it owns the place, while spring covers the trail in orchids and rhododendrons. Winter swaps flowers for snow-draped pines, but the drama stays the same. Out here, nature doesn’t just play background, it’s the main event.
Adventure Awaits: Activities Beyond Trekking
Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley Trek isn’t just about walking trails, it’s about living the wild. Try your hand at camping under a million stars, spotting rare Himalayan birds, or dipping your toes into crystal-clear streams. For the adrenaline seekers, nearby spots offer rock climbing and river crossings that crank up the thrill. This valley is your playground.
The Magical Sunrises and Sunsets of Har Ki Dun
There’s a certain magic in Har Ki Dun’s skies, a slow unfolding of colors that feels almost unreal. Mornings greet you with golden rays spilling over snow-capped peaks, while evenings wrap the valley in soft pinks, purples, and fiery oranges. Each sunrise promises adventure, and each sunset leaves you in awe, a reminder of how small yet deeply connected we are to this vast wilderness. Whether you’re sipping chai in camp or standing atop a ridge, these moments will etch themselves into your memory long after the trek ends.
Local Cuisine: A Taste of Himalayan Flavors
Trekking here isn’t just about the landscapes, it’s also a journey for your taste buds. Every grain you’ll enjoy is produced locally in the region, grown in the pure mountain air and nourished by fresh Himalayan waters. From steaming plates of rajma-chawal to hot rotis made with freshly milled flour, every meal carries the warmth and authenticity of the people who prepare it.
When we stay in Osla, you’ll have the chance to savor these flavors in their purest form. Meals are prepared using age-old recipes passed down through generations, often cooked over wood-fired stoves that add a rustic depth to every bite. Sitting in a cozy home, sharing food and stories with the locals, you’ll not just eat, you’ll connect with the very soul of the mountains.
The Mythological Significance of Har Ki Dun
This isn’t just a trek, it’s a pilgrimage through time. According to local legend, the Pandavas walked this very valley on their way to heaven, with Swargarohini Peak marking the gates to the afterlife. Every bend in the trail feels like it’s holding its breath, guarding centuries of whispered stories.
You’ll pass ancient temples, hand-carved wooden idols, and villages where mythology isn’t in books, it’s in everyday life. A local guide will bring these legends to life, turning your trek into a moving blend of epic tales and real landscapes. Here, nature and mythology don’t just coexist, they’ve been entwined for millennia, making every step feel like part of something much bigger.
Why the Har Ki Dun & Jaundhar Glacier Valley Trek is a Must-Do
Few treks tick as many boxes, snow peaks, green valleys, deep forests, and villages straight out of mythology. It’s an easy-to-moderate trail, perfect for rookies yet rewarding enough for seasoned trekkers. And then there’s the Mahabharata connection, legend says the Pandavas took this very route to heaven.
So yes, you’re not just walking a trail, you’re retracing steps that blur the line between history and myth, while soaking in views so unreal you’ll keep checking if your camera is lying.
Highlights
- Har Ki Dun Valley offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including Swargarohini, Kalanag, and Black Peak.
- Trek through traditional Garhwali villages like Osla, where you will experience the local culture and visit the Someshwar Temple.
- Walk through lush meadows, dense forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron, and picturesque landscapes.
- Ideal for beginners with good fitness, offering moderately challenging trekking days.
- Experience the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like the Himalayan Monal.
- Camping and stay at serene spots surrounded by majestic mountain views.
- A tranquil trek, far from the crowds, perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
- The trek offers exceptional opportunities for photography with its breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and village life.
Trek Itinerary
Your journey begins in the bustling city of Dehradun, where you will be picked up at 7 am at Prince Chowk, Dehradun. Embark on a scenic drive towards Sankri, the gateway to the Har ki Dun trek. As you wind through picturesque valleys and quaint villages, the anticipation of the adventure ahead fills the air with excitement. Upon reaching Sankri, you are welcomed by the serene charm of this mountainous hamlet, surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks. Take some time to acclimatize to the altitude and soak in the tranquility of your surroundings before gearing up for the trek ahead.
The journey begins in the quaint village of Sankri, where vibrant wooden houses stand against the backdrop of towering peaks. From here, a scenic drive takes you to Gangarh, the starting point of the trek. As you traverse through dense forests of pine and oak, the melodious chirping of birds accompanies you, soothing your soul and preparing you for the adventures ahead.
Leaving the enchanting valley of Har ki Dun behind, today's journey takes you further into the heart of the Himalayas as you trek from Osla to Baslow Camp. The trail unfolds like a tapestry of natural wonders, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys. Along the way, keep an eye out for elusive wildlife, including the Himalayan tahr and the elusive leopard, which roam these remote slopes. Upon reaching Baslow Camp, set up camp amidst the breathtaking scenery and savor the tranquility of the high mountains. As the sun sets behind the peaks, casting a golden glow over the landscape, reflect on the beauty and majesty of the Himalayas, knowing that you are truly immersed in nature's embrace.
Rising early, we set out from Baslow Camp, fueled by anticipation. The trail leads us through dense forests and ascending slopes, offering glimpses of the majestic Himalayan peaks.
Arriving at Har Ki Dun, we're greeted by a paradise of lush meadows and towering mountains. Pushing forward, we reach the majestic Jaundhar Glacier Valley.
After soaking in the tranquility, we reluctantly begin our journey back to Baslow Camp.
Descending from the heights of Baslow Camp, we make our way back to Osla, retracing the familiar trails that we've come to know and love. Along the way, we reflect on the experiences of the past few days, cherishing the friendships forged and the challenges overcome. As we reach Osla once again, we are greeted by familiar faces and a sense of homecoming, ready to rest and recharge for the journey ahead.
Our journey nears its end as we bid farewell to Osla and begin our trek back to Sankri via Gangarh. The trail takes us through familiar landscapes, offering new perspectives with each passing step. As we descend towards Sankri, we take the time to savor the beauty of the mountains one last time, knowing that our adventure is coming to a close. Arriving in Sankri, we celebrate our achievements and reminisce about the unforgettable moments shared along the way!
With hearts full of memories and a sense of accomplishment, we bid adieu to Sankri and embark on our journey back to Dehradun. As we drive through the winding roads, we carry with us the sights and sounds of the Himalayas, etched forever in our minds. The journey may be over, but the spirit of adventure lives on, fueling our dreams of future expeditions in the majestic mountains of the Himalayas.
What's Inside the package?
Package Inclusion
- Comfortable transport from Dehradun to Dehradun.
- Clean & scenic accommodation in Homestay on sharing basis, Camping in Tents on triple sharing basis.
- Nutritious and delicious meals on trek, Breakfast, Lunch, Tea/Snacks, Dinner.
- All camping equipment is hygienic and expedition grade, including Dome tents, Sleeping bags, Stools, Cutlery, Toilet tents, Technical equipment, First aid.
- All required permits.
- Professional and experienced trek leader, guide, and support staff.
- Strict adventure safety protocols.
- Eco-friendly practices throughout.
- No hidden charges.
Package Exclusion
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Meals during transit (Dehradun to Sankri & Sankri to Dehradun).
- Charges of mules/porters/carrying your personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
- Personal insurance.
- Personal medical kit.
- Any equipment that needs to be rented or is not mentioned in inclusions.
Map
- All Inclusive Price, No Hidden Charges
- No Daily Departures, Very Limited Spots
- 24/7 Customer Care
- Maximum group size of 15
trek FAQs
The Har Ki Dun Trek is rated as Easy to Moderate. It features gradual climbs and well-marked trails, making it a good choice for first-time trekkers who have some prior experience. While not too strenuous, daily walking hours and increasing altitude may still pose a challenge, so good fitness is recommended!
Spring (April–June) turns the valley into a wildflower festival with crystal-clear skies, while Autumn (Sept–Nov) paints it in gold for trekkers and photographers. Winter (Dec–Feb) buries everything in snow, gorgeous, but best left to experienced trekkers. Monsoon (July–Aug) makes the trails lush but slippery, so tread with caution. Bottom line: this valley looks stunning year-round, but pick your season based on whether you want to walk through blooming meadows, crunch snow under your boots, or watch the mountains change colour with every sunset.
The starting point of the Har Ki Dun Trek, usually Sankri, is around 200 kilometers from Dehradun. It takes roughly 8 to 10 hours by road to reach Sankri, depending on weather and road conditions.
