- Duration: 8 Days
- Highest Points: (4500 m)
- Best Time: May, June, September and October
Har ki Dun, which means Valley of Gods, is situated deep inside Govind Pashu National park. Rich in flora and fauna, the trails are quite often covered in different shades of orchids and other wild flowers. The area was made popular by the Doon school master Jack Gibson after his Banderpunch expeditions. Har ki dun has numerous camping places and one Forest Guest House. An extra rest day is ideal to proceed to get a clearer view of the Jaundhar glacier.
Bali pass was an old trekking route from the Tons river valley to the Yamuna river valley. The pass is more approachable from the Har-ki-Dun valley as the gradient is small and gives good time for the trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude. Ruinsara lake lies on the way to Bali Pass. The meadows near the lake are an ideal place to rest and explore the nearby peaks and passes. Another highlight of this trek is that it gives one the experience of camping above 4,000 m. The area is surrounded by Swargarohini Range and Banderpoonch range and some of the famous peaks are Swargarohini I,II and III, Kalanag, Banderpoonch West and Ruinsara.
The combination of these two treks is an unique experience in iteslf. The route from Har ki Dun to Ruinsara lake goes through a rarely trodden trail in a dense forest.
Dehradun to Sankri drive
We start early from Dehradun and reach the village Sankri by evening. The final stretch is through the Govind Pashu National Park after we cross a check post at Netwar. We rest at night in a guest house or in camps.
Day 2: Sankri to Osla (2,700 m)
Post breakfast we are transported from Sankri to Taluka. The drive is a bit bumpy. The trek commences from Taluka on a stony path. With the river Supin gushing through rapids beside us, under the shade of walnut, pine and other trees, the walk is quite pleasant. Often the passing villagers greet us on the way.
The path crosses over a few streams which merge with Supin. After a few hours of walk the village of Gangad can be seen towards the left, across the river. We continue our trek and after about an hour′s walk, the quaint village of Osla unfolds itself. Seema is a tiny settlement opposite to the river from Osla. We set camp here or stay in a hut with a local family in the village.
Day 3: Osla to Har ki Dun (3,510 m)
m Osla the trail gradually rises higher and passes through bushes of flowers like orchids, fleece flowers and sunflowers. The ascending path climbs high above the confluence of Supin river and the river from Ruinsara valley.
The peaks glitter in front of you as you go higher Mt. Shivling and Bhagirathi group of peaks attracts as they are calling you. You can spot Saints on the way in caves, they live permanently here so you take inspiration from them. Small tent shops are on the way where people who come here to worship have tea coffee or other things.
As you go higher the trail becomes barren and rocks are everywhere, Bhojbasa campsite is a barren land but the views from there are clearer and spectacular and Bhagirathi River flows beside our campsite. There is a small temple, when you reach there you can explore that area. The sunset from here looks mesmerizing. Enjoy the scenic views then dinner and overnight stay in tents.
Day 4: Explore Har ki Dun
We can choose to relax and soak in the environment or we have several trails as options.
The vast open meadows following the course of the Supin river can be explored. Further ahead of the meadows one can walk among the forests of Bhojpatra trees (Himalayan birch) or get a closer glimpse of the Jaundhar glacier and Swargarohini peak.
One can visit the Marinda Tal just 2km away from Har ki Dun. It is small glacial lake formed by a huge rock obstructing the river which flows down from Borasu pass.
The little-known valley of Hata can be explored which lies in between the above two valleys. It also has some large meadows and a close view of the Hata glacier and peak.
Day 5: Har ki Dun to Waterfall (3,330 m)
On this day we initially follow the trail coming back from Har ki Dun to Osla. After about 1 km we follow a path downhill on our left which leads to a small bridge and cross over to the opposite side. The path is through a dense forest for about 2 km. Then it turns left and enters the Ruinsara valley. From here it takes about 2 hours to reach the camping ground near the waterfall.
Day 6: Waterfall to Ruinsara lake (3,600 m)
We ascend into the Ruinsara valley. There is a stark difference in the vegetation with pine and fir giving way to birch and rhododendron. Ruinsara lake is a lovely lake surrounded by meadows and rhododendron bushes. It is considered sacred by the locals. Since, the trek is short, we have sufficient time on this day to acclimatize and explore the trails nearby. Overnight in camps near the lake.
Day 7: Ruinsara lake to Thanga (3,810 m)
We start the day early and can explroe the trail to Black Peak and Swargarohini basecamp before going towards our destination. We walk across the valley below Ruinsara lake and cross the river over a bridge. There is a steep ascent from the bridge to a ridge. The trail from here to the campsite passes through some beautiful meadows. We get a view of Swargarohini peak behind us from the campsite.The camp is set We camp below the pass along the glacial moraine. This is one of the best locations for a camp with the valley below and the pass behind you. Camping at this altitude is a new experience which very few treks offer.
Day 8: Thanga (3,810 m) to Bali Pass basecamp (4,400 m)
From the camp we turn right and ascent towards the pass. The trails have boulders and rocks. After about 1.5 km, we walk on a narrow and ascending ridge which ends near our campsite. We camp below the pass along the glacial moraine. This is one of the best locations for a camp with the valley below and the pass behind you. Camping at this altitude is a new experience which very few treks offer.
Day 9: Bali Pass basecamp (4,400 m) to upper Dhamni (4,000 m) via Bali pass (4,900 m)
We start very early, before sunrise on this. The steep climb to the pass commences just after a short walk. We reach the top of the pass by early morning. We get a gorgeous view of various peaks from here especially of the Banderpunch peaks on a clear day. From the pass, we descend down into the alpine zone and reach the camping grounds of upper Dhamni. This place has water nearby.
Day 10: Upper Dhamni to Yamunotri to Janki Chatti (2,400 m)
We descend to the forested trail leading to Yamunotri. After a quick visit to the famous shrine of Yamunotri, we make our way down the conventional pilgrim trail to Janki chatti. Overnight in guesthouses in Janki Chatti.
Day 11: Janki Chatti to Dehradun
This is the final day of the trip and we drive back to Dehradun.
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Har ki dun Bali Pass, you will need to choose the right kind of grip and sole for the shoe. We recommend that you check for water-resistance and a deep yet flexible sole for the all factors that you will face.
Importance: Your legs need to be well taken care of by the shoes over the course of the Har ki dun Bali Pass. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Har ki dun Bali Pass
Type: This purely depends on the kind of trek you are undertaking
- For Short Trek of 1 to 3 Days duration you need 15 litres to 20 litres of backpack
- For Long Trek of 3 to 10 Days duration you need 40 litres to 60 litres of backpack
Importance: Your backpack is as important as your shoe. Your entire journey will be with the Backpack with all the essentials you need. We recommend that you test the backpack and choose it according to the trek, your height & the comfort it provides.
Daypack
Type: This is 10 litres to 15 litres Daypack Backpack is what you need to have with you for the Summit day.
Importance: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your basic essentials with you.
Clothing
Padded Jacket – You will need 1 pair of the Jacket for Summer & Winter. Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & capable of keeping your warm up to -10 degrees.
Fleece Jacket – You will need 2 pairs of the Fleece Jacket. Make sure it’s Cotton or contains more Cotton.
Thermals – For the Black Peak Winter trek, you will require 1 pair of thermals because of the cold winter. During the summer, this is optional. Thermals should also be made primarily of Cotton. This will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature usually tends to drop.
Trek Pants – Exclusively meant for Trekking, you will need a minimum of 2 pairs of Trekking Pants. Ensure it is made of Cotton & provides maximum comfort and is durable for the Rupin Trek.
Collared T-shirts – Carry 2 – 3 sets of these for the trek. The collar will help keeping the neck from being exposed to the sun and getting sun burnt during the Black Peak in summer, when it is normally sunny.
Sun Caps – At high altitudes, the Sun might be harsh and direct exposure of your head to the sun is not something we would recommend. Carry Sun Caps in case these situations arise to keep your head cool on the Gaomuk Tapovan trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Gaomuk Tapovan trek in December and other winter months will have very cold nights in the mountains and you must protect your ears and head from the cold winds. Woolen caps are essentials during the nights to keep your ears and head warm.
Waterproof Gloves:You will need waterproof gloves as you move towards colder and wet parts of the Gaomuk Tapovan trek to keep your hands clean & warm without getting them wet and most importantly, to give you the grip and firmness you need for the climb.
Trek Accessories
Trekking Pole: The Har ki dun Bali Pass difficulty can be eased out by carrying one of our Trekking/Hiking Poles as it saves almost 60% of your energy when you are climbing a steep slope at high altitude regions. We make it a mandate to carry a Trekking Pole with you for our treks.
Head-lamp or Torch: : A Head-Lamp is something we make a mandate too, for our Treks. Carrying this will help you see better in dark places on the Black Peak Trek. In case you are unable to procure a Head-lamp, then we suggest carrying a Torch.
Daily essentials
Toiletries: We recommend that you carry all your toiletries and all other cosmetic essentials by yourself to avoid borrowing (Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Lip-balm, Moisturizer, Face-wash, Other creams & essentials, Toilet roll, Sanitary Pads, etc.). Do not leave used napkins in the mountains these are against Himalayan laws.
Bottles & Boxes: Carry your Water Bottles we suggest you have two 1 litre bottles. We suggest you carry your own tiffin boxes to eat the food we provide for both convenience, and hygienic purposes.
Risks and challenges are part of everyone’s lives; without taking risks and facing challenges one cannot aim to achieve what he wants to be. These challenges help inculcate in us life skills needed to survive through tough situations. We consider this the motto of our company- to prepare an individual to face the risks of life, the challenges that come their way, and to equip them with the knowledge to overcome them.
Trekking, directly or indirectly, helps develop these qualities and also garners quick decision making techniques as per the circumstances. It allows you to learn how nature works and the strong impact of the environment on one’s life.
The company has made all possible arrangements and taken all the necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps. However, it is still essential to enlighten our trekkers about the possible risks and challenges that they may meet with on the trekking route and how these can be avoided or overcome. Remember to be proactive at all times and with this is mind, let’s discuss some common risks and challenges along the Har ki dun Bali Pass map and ways to avoid them.
- Duration: 8 Days
- Highest Points: (4500 m)
- Best Time: May, June, September and October
Har ki Dun, which means Valley of Gods, is situated deep inside Govind Pashu National park. Rich in flora and fauna, the trails are quite often covered in different shades of orchids and other wild flowers. The area was made popular by the Doon school master Jack Gibson after his Banderpunch expeditions. Har ki dun has numerous camping places and one Forest Guest House. An extra rest day is ideal to proceed to get a clearer view of the Jaundhar glacier.
Bali pass was an old trekking route from the Tons river valley to the Yamuna river valley. The pass is more approachable from the Har-ki-Dun valley as the gradient is small and gives good time for the trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude. Ruinsara lake lies on the way to Bali Pass. The meadows near the lake are an ideal place to rest and explore the nearby peaks and passes. Another highlight of this trek is that it gives one the experience of camping above 4,000 m. The area is surrounded by Swargarohini Range and Banderpoonch range and some of the famous peaks are Swargarohini I,II and III, Kalanag, Banderpoonch West and Ruinsara.
The combination of these two treks is an unique experience in iteslf. The route from Har ki Dun to Ruinsara lake goes through a rarely trodden trail in a dense forest.
Dehradun to Sankri drive
We start early from Dehradun and reach the village Sankri by evening. The final stretch is through the Govind Pashu National Park after we cross a check post at Netwar. We rest at night in a guest house or in camps.
Day 2: Sankri to Osla (2,700 m)
Post breakfast we are transported from Sankri to Taluka. The drive is a bit bumpy. The trek commences from Taluka on a stony path. With the river Supin gushing through rapids beside us, under the shade of walnut, pine and other trees, the walk is quite pleasant. Often the passing villagers greet us on the way.
The path crosses over a few streams which merge with Supin. After a few hours of walk the village of Gangad can be seen towards the left, across the river. We continue our trek and after about an hour′s walk, the quaint village of Osla unfolds itself. Seema is a tiny settlement opposite to the river from Osla. We set camp here or stay in a hut with a local family in the village.
Day 3: Osla to Har ki Dun (3,510 m)
m Osla the trail gradually rises higher and passes through bushes of flowers like orchids, fleece flowers and sunflowers. The ascending path climbs high above the confluence of Supin river and the river from Ruinsara valley.
The peaks glitter in front of you as you go higher Mt. Shivling and Bhagirathi group of peaks attracts as they are calling you. You can spot Saints on the way in caves, they live permanently here so you take inspiration from them. Small tent shops are on the way where people who come here to worship have tea coffee or other things.
As you go higher the trail becomes barren and rocks are everywhere, Bhojbasa campsite is a barren land but the views from there are clearer and spectacular and Bhagirathi River flows beside our campsite. There is a small temple, when you reach there you can explore that area. The sunset from here looks mesmerizing. Enjoy the scenic views then dinner and overnight stay in tents.
Day 4: Explore Har ki Dun
We can choose to relax and soak in the environment or we have several trails as options.
The vast open meadows following the course of the Supin river can be explored. Further ahead of the meadows one can walk among the forests of Bhojpatra trees (Himalayan birch) or get a closer glimpse of the Jaundhar glacier and Swargarohini peak.
One can visit the Marinda Tal just 2km away from Har ki Dun. It is small glacial lake formed by a huge rock obstructing the river which flows down from Borasu pass.
The little-known valley of Hata can be explored which lies in between the above two valleys. It also has some large meadows and a close view of the Hata glacier and peak.
Day 5: Har ki Dun to Waterfall (3,330 m)
On this day we initially follow the trail coming back from Har ki Dun to Osla. After about 1 km we follow a path downhill on our left which leads to a small bridge and cross over to the opposite side. The path is through a dense forest for about 2 km. Then it turns left and enters the Ruinsara valley. From here it takes about 2 hours to reach the camping ground near the waterfall.
Day 6: Waterfall to Ruinsara lake (3,600 m)
We ascend into the Ruinsara valley. There is a stark difference in the vegetation with pine and fir giving way to birch and rhododendron. Ruinsara lake is a lovely lake surrounded by meadows and rhododendron bushes. It is considered sacred by the locals. Since, the trek is short, we have sufficient time on this day to acclimatize and explore the trails nearby. Overnight in camps near the lake.
Day 7: Ruinsara lake to Thanga (3,810 m)
We start the day early and can explroe the trail to Black Peak and Swargarohini basecamp before going towards our destination. We walk across the valley below Ruinsara lake and cross the river over a bridge. There is a steep ascent from the bridge to a ridge. The trail from here to the campsite passes through some beautiful meadows. We get a view of Swargarohini peak behind us from the campsite.The camp is set We camp below the pass along the glacial moraine. This is one of the best locations for a camp with the valley below and the pass behind you. Camping at this altitude is a new experience which very few treks offer.
Day 8: Thanga (3,810 m) to Bali Pass basecamp (4,400 m)
From the camp we turn right and ascent towards the pass. The trails have boulders and rocks. After about 1.5 km, we walk on a narrow and ascending ridge which ends near our campsite. We camp below the pass along the glacial moraine. This is one of the best locations for a camp with the valley below and the pass behind you. Camping at this altitude is a new experience which very few treks offer.
Day 9: Bali Pass basecamp (4,400 m) to upper Dhamni (4,000 m) via Bali pass (4,900 m)
We start very early, before sunrise on this. The steep climb to the pass commences just after a short walk. We reach the top of the pass by early morning. We get a gorgeous view of various peaks from here especially of the Banderpunch peaks on a clear day. From the pass, we descend down into the alpine zone and reach the camping grounds of upper Dhamni. This place has water nearby.
Day 10: Upper Dhamni to Yamunotri to Janki Chatti (2,400 m)
We descend to the forested trail leading to Yamunotri. After a quick visit to the famous shrine of Yamunotri, we make our way down the conventional pilgrim trail to Janki chatti. Overnight in guesthouses in Janki Chatti.
Day 11: Janki Chatti to Dehradun
This is the final day of the trip and we drive back to Dehradun.
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Har ki dun Bali Pass, you will need to choose the right kind of grip and sole for the shoe. We recommend that you check for water-resistance and a deep yet flexible sole for the all factors that you will face.
Importance: Your legs need to be well taken care of by the shoes over the course of the Har ki dun Bali Pass. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Har ki dun Bali Pass
Type: This purely depends on the kind of trek you are undertaking
- For Short Trek of 1 to 3 Days duration you need 15 litres to 20 litres of backpack
- For Long Trek of 3 to 10 Days duration you need 40 litres to 60 litres of backpack
Importance: Your backpack is as important as your shoe. Your entire journey will be with the Backpack with all the essentials you need. We recommend that you test the backpack and choose it according to the trek, your height & the comfort it provides.
Daypack
Type: This is 10 litres to 15 litres Daypack Backpack is what you need to have with you for the Summit day.
Importance: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your basic essentials with you.
Clothing
Padded Jacket – You will need 1 pair of the Jacket for Summer & Winter. Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & capable of keeping your warm up to -10 degrees.
Fleece Jacket – You will need 2 pairs of the Fleece Jacket. Make sure it’s Cotton or contains more Cotton.
Thermals – For the Black Peak Winter trek, you will require 1 pair of thermals because of the cold winter. During the summer, this is optional. Thermals should also be made primarily of Cotton. This will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature usually tends to drop.
Trek Pants – Exclusively meant for Trekking, you will need a minimum of 2 pairs of Trekking Pants. Ensure it is made of Cotton & provides maximum comfort and is durable for the Rupin Trek.
Collared T-shirts – Carry 2 – 3 sets of these for the trek. The collar will help keeping the neck from being exposed to the sun and getting sun burnt during the Black Peak in summer, when it is normally sunny.
Sun Caps – At high altitudes, the Sun might be harsh and direct exposure of your head to the sun is not something we would recommend. Carry Sun Caps in case these situations arise to keep your head cool on the Gaomuk Tapovan trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Gaomuk Tapovan trek in December and other winter months will have very cold nights in the mountains and you must protect your ears and head from the cold winds. Woolen caps are essentials during the nights to keep your ears and head warm.
Waterproof Gloves:You will need waterproof gloves as you move towards colder and wet parts of the Gaomuk Tapovan trek to keep your hands clean & warm without getting them wet and most importantly, to give you the grip and firmness you need for the climb.
Trek Accessories
Trekking Pole: The Har ki dun Bali Pass difficulty can be eased out by carrying one of our Trekking/Hiking Poles as it saves almost 60% of your energy when you are climbing a steep slope at high altitude regions. We make it a mandate to carry a Trekking Pole with you for our treks.
Head-lamp or Torch: : A Head-Lamp is something we make a mandate too, for our Treks. Carrying this will help you see better in dark places on the Black Peak Trek. In case you are unable to procure a Head-lamp, then we suggest carrying a Torch.
Daily essentials
Toiletries: We recommend that you carry all your toiletries and all other cosmetic essentials by yourself to avoid borrowing (Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Lip-balm, Moisturizer, Face-wash, Other creams & essentials, Toilet roll, Sanitary Pads, etc.). Do not leave used napkins in the mountains these are against Himalayan laws.
Bottles & Boxes: Carry your Water Bottles we suggest you have two 1 litre bottles. We suggest you carry your own tiffin boxes to eat the food we provide for both convenience, and hygienic purposes.
Risks and challenges are part of everyone’s lives; without taking risks and facing challenges one cannot aim to achieve what he wants to be. These challenges help inculcate in us life skills needed to survive through tough situations. We consider this the motto of our company- to prepare an individual to face the risks of life, the challenges that come their way, and to equip them with the knowledge to overcome them.
Trekking, directly or indirectly, helps develop these qualities and also garners quick decision making techniques as per the circumstances. It allows you to learn how nature works and the strong impact of the environment on one’s life.
The company has made all possible arrangements and taken all the necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps. However, it is still essential to enlighten our trekkers about the possible risks and challenges that they may meet with on the trekking route and how these can be avoided or overcome. Remember to be proactive at all times and with this is mind, let’s discuss some common risks and challenges along the Har ki dun Bali Pass map and ways to avoid them.