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Trek Grade Guide:


Trekking in the Himalayas is a true adventure experience — a journey into high-altitude wilderness where nature exists in its most raw and powerful form. Every trek comes with physical challenges, unpredictable weather, and varying terrain. Choosing the right trek grade is essential not just for a great experience, but also for safety and proper acclimatization.

To help you make the right choice, treks are categorized into three levels based on altitude, terrain, duration, and overall difficulty:

Easy (Beginner-Friendly Treks):
Ideal for first-time trekkers or those looking for an easy trek in the Himalayas. These treks usually last up to a week, with shorter hiking days, gradual altitude gain, and a maximum altitude of around 14,000 ft. The terrain remains well-defined, often within or near the tree line, with civilization relatively accessible. Weather conditions are more predictable, making these treks safer and easier to manage, with quicker rescue access if required.

Moderate Treks:
Designed for trekkers with some prior experience or good fitness levels. These treks may extend beyond a week and include a mix of short and long trekking days, with altitudes reaching up to 16,000 ft. You move above the tree line into more rugged landscapes — including alpine meadows, moraines, and high-altitude terrain. Weather becomes more unpredictable, and conditions can change suddenly. While still manageable, these treks require better preparation, endurance, and mental strength.

Difficult (Expedition-Level Treks):
These are high-altitude expeditions meant for experienced trekkers. Routes often exceed 17,000 ft and pass through glaciers, snowfields, steep ascents, river crossings, and technical terrain. Treks can last up to two weeks, taking you far from civilization into extreme Himalayan conditions. Weather can shift rapidly, and sections may require technical equipment like ropes or ice axes. Rescue in such regions is complex, making experience, self-sufficiency, and strong mental resilience absolutely essential.

Understanding these categories helps you choose a trek that matches your fitness, experience, and expectations — ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and truly memorable Himalayan adventure.

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PriceNote – Listed Price & Customisation Rules:
The listed trek price applies to our fixed departures for the specified itinerary. Trek fees including any add-ons for customized groups may vary based on your preferences, ensuring every adventure is tailored to your needs.

Group Booking Offer:
For groups of 8 or more booking together, the trek fee for 1 participant will be waived as a token to encourage shared adventures.

Scholarship for Kids:
Children under 15 years receive a 30% discount on the trek price, making it easier for families to explore the Himalayas together.

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Transport Price Note:
The transport price mentioned is only an current indicative estimate per person, assuming a Non-AC vehicle like Bolero shared by at least 4 participants.
Fewer participants → cost rises;
More participants → cost decreases.

Transport Selection During Booking:
Selecting transport during booking informs us of your preference. No payment is collected at booking.

Final Cost & Payment:
Final transport cost will be communicated before departure and to be paid directly to the cab driver.

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Itinerary Note:
This itinerary represents the most updated plan, but minor adjustments may occur due to operational needs or mountain conditions.

Harkidun Trek

A Timeless Himalayan Masterpiece

Gallery

Trek Overview

  • Trek Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days
  • Trek Grade: Easy ?
  • 🏔️ Max Altitude: 11,200 ft (Harkidun)
  • Trek Distance: 40 Km
  • 🌤️ Best Time: March-June & September-November
  • 🗺️ Region: Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand
  • 📍 Start Point: Sankri (Uttarakhand)
  • 🏁 End Point: Sankri (Uttarakhand)
  • 🧥 Cloakroom facility: Available

Price starting from ?

INR 11,900 * Sanri to Sankri

*Price inclusive of all applicable taxes (GST included).

Small group sizes • High guide-to-trekker ratio • No hidden costs

Addons (Optional)

  • Transportation – INR 5,000 (* Dehradun to Dehradun) ?
  • Offloading Bags – INR 1,800 (* Maximum weight 9kg/bag)

Need a different date?

We can arrange a custom departure if 3+ trekkers align.

Walking The Trail

The Har Ki Dun Trek is one of those rare Himalayan journeys where myth, nature, and human warmth come together to create pure magic. Hidden deep in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, this cradle-shaped valley opens up a world of towering peaks, ancient legends, and timeless mountain life. The trail follows the clear blue waters of the Supin River, winding past whispering pine and deodar forests, wooden bridges, and meadows that seem to glow under the morning sun.
What makes Har Ki Dun unforgettable is its sense of peace — no roads, no crowds, only the soft hum of the valley and the rhythm of your steps. Every bend brings a new surprise — a cluster of wild rhododendrons, a snow-fed stream, or the distant sight of Swargarohini shining under a veil of clouds.
Trekkers walk through centuries-old villages like Osla, Gangad, and Seema, where time seems to move slower. The intricate wooden temples, carved with mythological motifs, tell stories of faith that still live strong in the mountains. The Duryodhana Temple of Osla, now devoted to Lord Someshwar, stands as a reminder of the valley’s deep connection to the Mahabharata.
As the trail climbs higher, it leads to alpine meadows and moraine fields, revealing stunning views of Bandarpoonch, Kalanag (Black Peak), and the Swargarohini massif — the same peaks said to mark the path to heaven taken by the Pandavas.
Har Ki Dun is not just a trek; it’s a living story. A story of rivers that sing, forests that whisper, and people who still greet you with warmth and mountain grace. Whether you’re drawn by mythology, nature, or the spirit of solitude, this trek will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world — one that’s real, raw, and deeply human.
Read More

Highlights

✅ Ancient Himalayan villages: Osla & Gangad

✅ Panoramic views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag

✅ Diverse landscapes: forests, meadows, rivers, glaciers

Itinerary

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• Your journey to the mountains begins early in the morning from Dehradun. To reach on time, trekkers usually take an overnight bus or train from Delhi to Dehradun ISBT. From here, we start our long yet beautiful drive towards Sankri, the gateway to several iconic treks in the Western Garhwal Himalayas, including Har Ki Dun and Kedarkantha.
The drive winds through Mussoorie – the Queen of Hills, where the air turns crisp and pine-scented. As we descend past Kempty Falls and enter the Tons River valley, the landscape changes dramatically — terraced fields, apple orchards, and conifer-covered slopes replace the city bustle. The route passes through small mountain towns like Naugaon, Purola, Mori, and Netwar, each offering a glimpse into the slow, content rhythm of Himalayan life.
We stop en route for a hearty mountain-side lunch and continue deeper into the valley. Past Purola, mobile networks fade — only BSNL and Jio work intermittently beyond this point. The final stretch to Sankri is a treat: narrow roads weaving through dense pine forests, the sun flickering through branches, and the Tons River gliding alongside.
By early evening, we arrive at Sankri (6,400 ft), a peaceful mountain village nestled amidst apple orchards and snow-capped peaks. From the village, the first views of Swargarohini shimmer in the distance — a hint of what awaits ahead. After freshening up at our cozy guesthouse, you can stroll through the small local market for tea, woollens, or last-minute gear. During winter, Sankri itself often wears a fresh coat of snow — marking the true beginning of your Himalayan adventure.
• Start your day with a warm breakfast amidst crisp mountain air and panoramic Himalayan views — the perfect start before setting off for another memorable day on the trail. After packing up, a short 1.5-hour drive from Sankri takes you to Dhatmeer, the last motorable point before the valley narrows into trekking country. The drive itself is a delight — winding mountain roads, fresh pine-scented breeze, and glimpses of towering peaks set the tone for the adventure ahead.
From Dhatmeer, the trek begins on a well-marked trail that meanders through lush cedar and pine forests, with the Supin River glistening below. The air carries the scent of wild herbs and wet earth as you cross small wooden bridges and mountain streams. Along the way lies Gangar, a small Himalayan hamlet where traditional wooden houses and terraced fields reflect the simple, enduring life of the mountains. After a brief rest here, continue a little further to Pawani Garat, your campsite for the night.
As the trail climbs gradually, views of Bandarpoonch and the Swargarohini peaks open up, adding grandeur to the landscape. During monsoon, the trail bursts with life — blooming amaranth shrubs painting the slopes in striking red hues, and in spring, meadows carpeted with blue poppies, primulas, and rhododendrons.
Set up camp beside the forest clearing, surrounded by oak and pine, with the sound of the Supin River echoing through the valley. Higher up the mountains on the other side of th river you can see the lat village of this valley- Osla. As night falls, the stars appear bright and endless above — a reminder of why the Himalayas feel like home to every trekker who walks these trails.
• Today’s trek unfolds through a stunning mix of landscapes — gentle ascents through forests, open meadows, and rolling ridgelines that bring you closer to the heart of the valley. After a while on the trail you reach Seema, a little ahead lies the Seema bridge. Crossing the bridge, the trail gradually climbs through thick stands of pine and oak, opening at intervals to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. With every turn, the mountains seem to draw nearer, their snow-laden ridges gleaming under the sun.
As you gain altitude, the scenery becomes even more dramatic. The trail winds past scenic vantage points overlooking the mighty Dhauladhar Range, revealing vast expanses of the Himalayan skyline. After a while, the path levels out to a beautiful tabletop meadow known as Kalkattiyadhar — a green oasis perched high above the valley. From here, you can gaze upon the Bugyal Devsu, the Ruinsara Range, and the majestic summits of Black Peak and Kedarkantha in the distance. This is one of those rare places where you’ll want to pause, breathe deeply, and let the stillness of the mountains sink in.
Beyond Kalkattiyadhar, the trail continues through lush greenery where the forest teems with life — if you’re lucky, you might spot the Himalayan Monal, Uttarakhand’s state bird, or footprints of a musk deer on soft ground. The mix of gradual climbs and short descents keeps the walk engaging and rhythmic.
By afternoon, you’ll arrive at Seematra, a serene high-altitude campsite surrounded by panoramic views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, and Black Peak. As dusk settles, the valley glows under shades of orange and pink, turning the entire landscape into a dreamlike painting. Spend the evening sharing stories around the campsite before resting under a star-filled sky — a perfect end to a truly memorable day.
• Today marks the most awaited day of the entire trek — the day you finally step into the legendary Har Ki Dun Valley, often called the Valley of the Gods. After a warm breakfast amidst the high mountains, set off early for a long yet deeply rewarding journey through one of the most enchanting landscapes in the Himalayas.
The trail begins with a steady climb through alpine meadows, where the early morning sun paints the snow peaks in golden hues. As you gain altitude, the air turns crisper, and snow patches begin to appear, shimmering against the deep green of the valley. You’ll walk through lush meadows and forested slopes, sometimes crossing small glacial streams and boulder-strewn patches. In spring, the route bursts alive with wildflowers — primulas, rhododendrons, and gentians, while in winter, it transforms into a white wonderland straight out of a dream.
As the valley opens up, you’ll catch your first breathtaking view of Swargarohini Peak, followed by the grand sight of Hata Peak, Black Peak (Kalanag), and Bandarpoonch standing tall in the distance. Each step forward unveils new panoramas — soaring ridges, icy waterfalls, and endless alpine expanses that seem untouched by time.
At the heart of the valley lies a small stone temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a sacred Shivling and a statue of Nandi overlooking the mighty peaks. The place holds immense mythological significance — it is believed to be the path taken by the Pandavas on their way to heaven, giving the valley its divine aura and name, Har Ki Dun — “The Valley of the Gods.”
Spend some quiet time here, letting the serenity of the valley sink in. Capture the vastness of this heavenly amphitheater, surrounded by snow-clad summits and the murmuring of glacial streams.
After immersing yourself in this Himalayan paradise, begin your descent back to Seematra, retracing the same scenic trail. The journey down feels gentler and filled with reflection. By evening, you’ll reach your campsite, where a warm dinner and peaceful night under a starlit sky await — a perfect close to one of the most memorable days of your trek.
The day begins with the descent from Seematra, retracing parts of the familiar trail as the valley slowly opens up below. The walk feels gentler in the morning light, with forests thinning out and village paths appearing more frequently.

Instead of heading directly toward the Seema bridge, the trail passes through Osla village — a cultural highlight of the trek. Here, you walk past centuries-old wooden houses and the revered Someshwar Temple, offering a close look at the traditional lifestyle and deep-rooted customs of the region.

Continuing downhill, the trail winds through forest sections and terraced slopes before reaching Pawani Garat, a quiet riverside clearing. Surrounded by greenery and flowing water, this spot makes for a peaceful halt after a fulfilling day of walking. The evening is spent resting and soaking in the calm of the lower valley.
The final day starts with a relaxed descent from Pawani Garat, following village trails and forest paths toward the Dhatmeer roadhead. As altitude drops further, the surroundings gradually shift from dense forest to open valleys and scattered settlements, signalling the end of the trekking journey.

Upon reaching the roadhead at Dhatmeer, vehicles are arranged for the drive back to Sankri. The drive retraces scenic mountain roads along rivers and pine-covered slopes, bringing you back to the familiar base town by afternoon or early evening.

With the trek officially complete, the journey concludes in Sankri — carrying back memories of remote trails, cultural encounters, and days spent deep in the Garhwal Himalayas.
• Drive Distance: ~200 km | Duration: 7–8 hrs.

Early morning, bid farewell to the mountains as you begin your return journey from Sankri to Dehradun. The drive retraces the beautiful route through the Tons Valley, passing charming Himalayan villages like Netwar, Mori, Purola, and Naugaon before gradually descending towards the foothills.

Throughout the journey, enjoy one last glimpse of the pine-covered slopes, terraced farmlands, apple orchards, and sparkling mountain rivers that have accompanied you throughout the trek. As you leave the higher Himalayas behind, the cool mountain air slowly gives way to the warmer climate of the Doon Valley.

By afternoon or early evening, you arrive in Dehradun, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the mythical Har Ki Dun Valley. The memories of ancient Himalayan villages, alpine meadows, pristine forests, and the majestic peaks of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak will remain with you long after the adventure comes to an end.

Packing list

For a comprehensive packing list, download the PDF below: Download Packing List

Did you know?

Har Ki Dun means 'Valley of the Gods'! - Mythology suggests that the Pandavas traversed this valley on their way to heaven via Swargarohini peak, giving the trek spiritual significance.
Osla village worships Duryodhana! - A rare Himalayan custom: the village temple is dedicated to the Kaurava prince, with wooden architecture over 200 years old.
Swargarohini is called the 'stairway to heaven'! - Its snow-clad peaks mark the legendary path of the Pandavas and dominate the skyline throughout the trek.
Ancient Indo-Tibetan trade routes pass here! - Long before trekking tourism, this valley was used by traders and shepherds moving between Uttarakhand, Himachal, and Tibet.
Three distinct climate zones in one trek! - Pine and deodar forests in lower valleys, temperate oak forests mid-way, and alpine meadows with glacial basins near Har Ki Dun.
Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary - Home to elusive snow leopards, black bears, musk deer, Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, and dozens of rare alpine flowers, making it a wildlife hotspot.
Rhododendrons, primulas, and gentians bloom along the trail! - In spring, the valley and meadows are painted with vibrant red, pink, purple, and blue hues.
Terraced Himalayan villages: - Osla, Gangad, and Seema showcase centuries-old architecture and traditional agriculture unique to the Garhwal region.

Route Map

How to reach

✈️ Air:
• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED)
• Regular flights available from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities.Regular flights available from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities.
• From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Dehradun ISBT or directly to Sankri.

🚆 Train:
• Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
• Well connected with major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Lucknow.

🛣️ Road: Dehradun to Sankri (190 km | 8–9 hours)

🗺️ Travel Tip:
• Private Cab: Can be booked in advance. Costlier but comfortable.
• Local Bus: From Dehradun ISBT to Sankri via Purola (limited availability, leaves early morning).

TrekFAQs

  • This trek is suitable for beginners with moderate fitness and for experienced trekkers looking for a scenic Himalayan experience. The trail involves gradual ascents through forests and meadows, making it ideal for first-time high-altitude trekkers.
  • The ideal seasons are May–June and September–October, when the weather is stable, meadows are lush, and peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch are clearly visible.
  • Essential items include waterproof trekking shoes, layered clothing, a 40–50L backpack, thermal wear, rain jacket, trekking poles, and a headlamp. Refer to the packing list PDF above for detailed guidance.
  • Yes, overnight camping is arranged at scenic locations along the trek, including Har Ki Dun meadows. Tents, bedding, and meals are provided.
  • Mobile network coverage is limited. Some areas may have intermittent Airtel or BSNL service, but overall connectivity is unreliable.
  • No special permits are required for Har Ki Dun as it lies within Uttarakhand state forest areas. The trek operator handles all necessary permissions for camping.
  • Har Ki Dun offers a combination of lush alpine meadows, panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas, and opportunities to experience the serene beauty of Uttarakhand’s pristine wilderness.

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What our trekkers say

Abhay Poddar

Abhay Poddar

Pune

★★★★★

The experience with Planethimalays on the Beas Kund Trek was really Great. I took a group of College students on a Himalayan Trek for the 1st Time. Everything was planned very well. The 2 female guides Raksha and Deepika ensured the group especially the girls were made comfortable. The safety of the group, food and tents were all araangd very well. Looking forward to trekking with them next year too.

Yashesh Vora

Yashesh Vora

Pune

★★★★★

We had an amazing experience with Planethimalayas organized by Kamal sir. Everything from stay and food to overall arrangements was perfectly managed. Manish, Satish and Ashish were extremely supportive throughout the trip. We completed Tungnath and Deoriatal treks, and the food was simple, local, and delicious. The beautiful Sari village visit was truly beautiful my parents even walked 5 km, which was a big surprise for us!
The itinerary was very thoughtfully planned and suitable for my parents as well as my little one. Highly recommended for all kind of treks in the Himalayan ranges!

Ananya Mitra

Ananya Mitra

Kolkata

★★★★★

Kamal Das the leader and founder is a great person and had good knowledge about the route. The food was great and the stays were comfortable which was above the expectation in that altitude.
Thanks to Planethimalayas.

Jytte Scheepens

Jytte Scheepens

Freelancer | Breda, Netherlands

★★★★★

I did the Kashmir Great Lakes trek with Kamal. This was such an unforgettable experience. Kamal is such an amazing guide. He told us so many interesting facts, I had beautiful deep talks with him about the mountains and listened to many of his stories about the experiences he's had while trekking. He's such a genuine and pure soul. I was the only female in the team, but not once I felt uncomfortable or left out. Everyone was incredibly respectful and nice. We were allowed to walk on our own pace and didn't feel rushed or pushed. Everyone can do the trek as they want, in the way they want. He respects you and really goes out of his way to make you enjoy the most. Till this day he's still a dear friend of mine and I hope to have the privilege to go to the mountains again, together with him. If you're planning to do a trek, definitely do it with Kamal — he will 100% make sure this trip is something you'll never forget.

Clare Fisher

Clare Fisher

Marketing | Canada

★★★★★

I had some nerves about going on a trek solo but Kamal took excellent care of me and made sure I felt safe and looked after. He was able to customize the trek to my needs and we went on lots of side quests to explore the area. Kamal is very knowledgeable and has some fantastic stories to tell, so was the best company the entire time — it felt like I had friends adventuring with me! Thanks again :)

Suramita Chakrabarty

Suramita Chakrabarty

Kolkata

★★★★★

Amazing staff with good and decent behaviour. Food quality was also very good. Throughout the trek they had taken utmost care of everything.
Will definitely plan again with Mr. Kamal Das.

Samar

Samar

Automotive UX Designer | Pune

★★★★★

I made friendship with the mountains through Kamal sir’s experience. The moment I met him at my last trek at Kedarkantha, I was impressed by his mountaineering knowledge and friendly nature that this year too (to Tungnath) and every year hereafter I am going to partner him to a new peak and new experiences in those journeys. Kudos to Planethimalayas for the exceptional work in making the love of mountains more accessible and enjoyable.

Akshata Poojari

Akshata Poojari

Bangalore

★★★★★

The trekking experience was absolutely unforgettable. Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, making the whole journey fun and safe.

How Our Treks Are More Than Just a Trek

Every journey with us is carefully crafted for a deeply personal mountain experience.

Not Just a Trek — A Journey That Stays With You

Every trail we walk is a carefully chosen path into the heart of the Himalayas — not just to witness their grandeur, but to feel them under your skin and soul. Our treks are designed not as bucket list checkmarks, but as life-affirming journeys. At Planethimalayas, we believe a mountain journey is deeply personal — and that belief runs through everything we do.

Individual Care, Every Step of the Way

We keep our groups small and intimate so we can focus on you — your pace, your concerns, your joy. From pre-trek guidance to trail-side support, our leaders walk with intention, offering safety and attention without intrusion. It’s this deep care that turns strangers into friends and walks into memories.

Built on Genuine Love for the Himalayas

We don’t just operate in the Himalayas — we live and breathe them. From respecting mountain communities to following Leave No Trace ethics, our treks are shaped by humility and care. With Planethimalayas, your trek becomes a way of giving back to the mountains that give us so much.

Why Choose Us

Experience the difference of trekking with genuine mountain experts who truly care.

Trek Leader & Guide

Led by certified mountaineers with wilderness first aid training, ensuring your safety and confidence at every step.

Cook & Support Staff

Our mountain crew comprises local experts who bring unmatched experience, warmth, and deep knowledge of the region.

Small Group Size

We cap our group departures at just 8 trekkers — ensuring individual attention, deeper connections, and better trail discipline.

Safety Standards

From personal well-being to technical preparedness, we maintain the highest safety standards — using certified high-altitude gear and comprehensive safety protocols to ensure a secure and reliable Himalayan experience.

24×7 Online Support

We're always available — before, during, or after your trek. Reach out anytime, and you'll always hear back from a real human.

We Care for the Mountains

We strictly follow Leave No Trace ethics. Limited group sizes and mindful practices help protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.