Har Ki Dun is one of the oldest trekking destinations in Himalaya. Some believe that the Pandavas of Mahabharat also used this route. This valley is situated at the Garhwal side of Uttarkashi and is the source of famous Yamuna river. The scenic beauty of this village is beyond our imagination.
Har Ki Dun trek is also known as the valley of God. There are several reasons behind this name. First of all, it gives us the mesmerizing view of ice-covered Swargarohini peak. Secondly, you can see dense forests, evergreen grazing fields. If you are a mountain lover, you should take a look at the things we have discussed below. These discussions will definitely help you to know more about Har Ki Dun or the Valley Of God.
Har Ki Dun Trek: During the trek, you will get to see some miracles of nature such as evergreen meadows with full of cattles, snow covered valley, mountain streams, cascades, etc. Before reaching to the Valley Of God, several remote villages are there, where you should visit. These villages are Taluka, Jhakol, Osla, Sankri. The villagers are very welcoming. They will warmly welcome you in their village and tell you about their tradition, culture, lifestyle, etc. Generally, this trek is started from Sankri. As you progress from this village, you will go through a dense forest where you may see rain deer, Himalayan Monal (the state bird of Uttarakhand) and several rare animals.
This route will lead you to Pauni Garaat and Osla village. The entire journey from Sankri to Pauni Garaat will be filled with trails of conifers; like Pine, Juniper, Birch, Rhododendron, etc. The next destination of this route is Kalkattiyadhar, which is the last place before reaching Har Ki Dun. The distance between these two places is approximately 14 Kms. The nearest airport of this place is Jolly Grant Airport and the nearest Railway Station is Dehradun Railway station. So, any one of these two transports can help you to reach Har Ki Dun.
After camping in Har Ki Dun for a night, you can return back to Kalkattiyadhar. From there, you can go to several remote villages.
Things to expect in Har Ki Dun Trek:
There are several things which you may see or expect in this trek.
First of all, you may get the clear view of Swargarohini group of peaks which includes Black peak, Bandarpoonch, Hata peak, etc. Some of these peaks remain ice-covered during most of the year.
Secondly, you will come across Supin river in Kalkattiyadhar. From there you will be progressing towards the heaven on earth (Har Ki Dun).
The things you will see are evergreen meadows, mist covered mountains, streams. The peaceful environment, the distinct sound of mountain streams and the cottony clouds will give you an unending happiness as well as a heart-warming feeling.
In this valley, there are various kinds of flora and faunas. Some will amaze you with its beauty and unique characteristics. These include several coloring flowers like Brahma Kamal, Tulip, Burans, etc. Near Har Ki Dun, there is the valley of flowers which is also a major attraction of this trek. This place gives you the view of a thick blanket of flowers. Whenever wind blows through this valley, ripples are formed on this sea of flowers.
Best Seasons for this Trek: Summer is the best season for this trek. The time from April to June, the entire valley remains green and filled with flowers. In other words, you can enjoy the scenic beauty if you go in this season. From December to March, snow fall is seen in this place and the entire valley is covered with snow. In cold weather, one cannot properly relish the scenic beauty of this valley.
Weather of Har Ki Dun: Har Ki Dun is the most common trek to the mountain lovers because it is accessible during most of the years. In summer, the valley remains green and free of snow. During this time, various kinds of flowering plants, trees, moss, fern, lichens are seen. In winter, most of the valley becomes covered with snow. Temperature drops down to zero degree or below. For this reason, you should carry warm clothes whenever you are going to Har Ki Dun.
Summary:
Har Ki Dun is a common Himalayan trekking destination. People from all ages can do this trek. It does not require high level of fitness. The route for this trekking is very easy and does not contain any perils. One thing you should follow for any trek is the habit of staying hydrated. In high altitude, there always remains the possibility water scarcity. So, you will need to stay hydrated. Here, we have tried to discuss some things about Har Ki Dun and we hope that it will definitely help you.
