Har ki Dun trek is not merely an adventurous trek that offers an expedition to the Himalayan Mountains; it also encompasses a great history. It is often said that Lord Rama and Sita were supposed to have spent some time here before they left to take part in the epic battle. Also, it is one of the most thrilling trekking destinations in Uttarakhand offering a pleasant and serene experience to trekkers. It is situated near a breathtaking green valley bordered by snow-clad peaks on all sides, making it an ideal trekking destination for adventure lovers. Keep reading the Har ki dun trek guide for more.
The picturesque view at Har ki Dun along with excellent weather conditions attract most people to the route mentioned below. After reading the itinerary you should consider focusing on the unique features of this trek and the days that would be befitted for exploring the Har ki Dun trek and enjoying every magical moment.
The Har ki Dun Trek Itinerary
This trek is often described as one of the most beautiful treks in India, is a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes of Uttarakhand. So let’s begin with the route for this fantastic journey!
Day 1: Arrival at Sankri (200 km; 8-9 hours from Dehradun)
While starting the journey from Dehradun, it will take you around 8 hours to reach the starting point of the trek: Sankri. If the weather remains good, the Swargarohini peak must be visible to your eyes from this point. It is a small village and a perfect start to the trekking journey.
Suggested read: Here’s why you should do the Har ki Dun Trek
Day 2: Sankri to Puani Garat (26 km; 12 km drive & 14 km Trek)
Through a dense forest, one must drive to Taluka to commence the trek on Day 2. You have to walk towards Supin River and then continue on the side of it. You can also hire a jeep(locally) for reaching Taluka. Please note that the route gets closed during monsoon season as it is a landslide-prone one. Continue trekking till you reach the secluded campsite at Puani Garat. Set up your camps and enjoy the overnight stay.
Day 3: Puani Garat to Har ki Dun (10 km Trek; 5 to 6 hours)
Your third day should start with heading towards Osla. It is a picturesque village located a hundred meters above the Supin River. Continue trekking toward the lush green meadows until you reach your next destination, Kalkati Dhar. After reaching here, you’ll be noticing the change in the terrain. The pleasant outlook would be hitting your mind, pushing you to explore the beauty of Har ki Dun Trek more vastly.
As you keep going, it won’t take long for you to notice the visibility of Hata Peak and so the Har ki Dun, which is situated at the foot of this peak. As soon as you reach there, enjoy camping at its best at Har ki Dun. Boslo campsite is often considered the best and most beautiful one. So undoubtedly you can opt for this!
You will not only be enjoying the best scenic views but also the calm streams flowing nearby. So, calm down, relax and get prepared for the next adventurous day.
Day 4: Har ki Dun Trek (7 to 8 hours)
Get ready to start the actual trek at Har ki Dun! As you start, you’ll be noticing a hidden waterfall, astonishing in its own way. Continue trekking and let me tell you the bonus route, through Ruinsara. This place will bestow you with marvelous snow-covered peaks including the Black Peak, undoubtedly the highest one. Transverse along with the river until you spot the eye-popping junction of two valleys, originating from Jaundhar glacier and Hata glacier. As you reach the final point, turn around and lose yourself in the beauty of Har ki Dun for a moment or two.
Now, that’s giving you two ways, either to relax here or to continue towards the nearby trek namely, Maninda Tal Trek. After your short visit to Maninda Trek, you can head back to Kalkatidhar on the same route. Kalkathiyadhar campsite is a great one for you to have a stay. It offers camping amidst snow-capped mountains at a high altitude that is set high up the valley.
Day 5: Kalkatidhar to Osla/Seema (12 kms Trek)
Head back towards Osla, enjoy the easy walk, and make sure you enjoy every moment even while trekking. Enjoy the culturally rich environment at Osla, try engaging with local villagers, and give yourself a night’s stay at Osla or Seema.
While trekking to Osla, you will learn how people not only worship Pandavas but also Kauravas and so the Duryodhana — the king of the Kauravas. Forget not to visit temples that you will come across on your trekking route. With each temple visit, you’ll get to know many historical things that anyone else would barely know.
Day 6: Back to Sankri (10-12kms; 6 hours)
So now you’ll be going through the same route but that won’t be the same as on Day 1. That’s because now you will be going downhill and experiencing a whole new perspective on the way to Sankri.
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Day 7: Sankri to Dehradun / Direct departure
You’ll be heading back to Dehradun in the early morning, ending the marvelous Har ki Dun Trek with a 7-day journey and new experiences.
This is how our journey will come to an end with happy faces! Let’s see what’s more in our Har ki Dun trek guide.
Is Har ki Dun Trek worth it?
If it isn’t, anything can’t be! Har ki Dun is at an altitude of 12,000 ft making it ideal for adventure lovers who love to travel in high altitudes. Its unique features such as wildlife, valleys & rivers, moderate difficulty, and cultural heritage are the added advantages.
The reason why Har ki Dun is renowned as being the oldest Himalayan trail is that it is believed that the Kauravas from the epic Mahabharata took the same route when they ascended to heaven.
You can witness the traces of ancient history speckled through the route where you get to witness temples dedicated to Duryodhana and more. The best way to explore Har ki Dun would be to witness all the landmarks it has to offer.
How long is Har ki Dun Trek?
Our Har ki Dun trek guide answered! The complete distance is about 56 km which can be covered approximately in the span of 7 to 8 days. The trail starts from Sankri which is the base camp for the Har ki Dun trek and traverses through enchanting valleys and ancient villages.
So while planning a trek to this amazing place, make sure you give yourself no less than six days.
What is the best time to do the Har ki Dun trek?
Har ki Dun Trek from March to June is the best time for doing the Har ki Dun- Ruinsara valley trek in summer. If you’re up for enjoying snow patches on the mountains, then March is definitely the right time for you. However, April, May, and June are great for trekking on the grasslands of Har ki Dun while enjoying flower-blooming and green meadows.
Har ki Dun Trek from September to December is the best time for doing the For Har ki Dun- Ruinsara valley trek in the winter season. Here, September is more of lush green valleys and October & November are when these green valleys turn into brown and goldish ones as autumn commences. However, December is exactly the month for snow lovers.
Recommended read: Best Winter Treks to do in the Himalayas
How difficult is the Har ki Dun- Ruinsara Valley Trek?
The difficulty level is from easy to moderate for the Har Ki Dun trek. While on the trek, one has to cover long distances every day and one more point to be noted, it doesn’t have multiple exits. The long distance can exhaust people who don’t have muscle endurance which is why it’s necessary to indulge in some exercises before embarking on the Har ki Dun trek. That’s the only reason for its trek difficulty being moderate.
What to pack for the Har ki Dun trek?
The most important trek essentials particularly for the Har ki Dun trek are your documents (Identity card, Disclaimer certificate, and medical certificate). These three are much needed for starting your trek and getting permission from the forest department. There are other winter trek essentials like clothing, shoes, and trekking gear which you’d also require.
Suggested read: Winter Trek essentials
So, this is the end of our Har ki dun trek guide. Hope your every query regarding the trek is marked. If not, feel free to comment below!