- Duration: 11 Days
- Highest Points: (4980 m)
- Best Time: May, June, September and October
Vasuki Tal is a high altitude Lake (4,978 m) in Garhwal Himalayan region, it is named Vasuki Tal because it resembles the snake of Lord Shiva and people believe that Lord Vishnu took bath in this Lake and it became sacred. The water is clear and it is fed by Mt. Vasuki.
No vegetation is found here and this lake is in between of two glaciers but plenty of Braham Kamal’s can be found here which makes it look very beautiful, Brahma Kamal are rarely found and can be only seen in Himalayan region.
To reach Vasuki Tal Gangotri Glacier needs to be traversed which makes this trek adventurous and full of thrill. This trek is moderate but there are some difficult sections in which skills are needed.
Chaukhamba Peaks are visible from here and other magnificent Himalayan peaks glimmer from a distance. Vasuki Tal is base of Mt. Vasuki and Mt. Satopanth.
Day 1: DehraDun to Gangotri (10/12 hours) (10,145 feet)
Our team members will meet you at Dehradun Railway Station and then drive to Uttarkashi, Tehri Dam is on the way. This journey is of 10 – 12 hours but you will go through some picturesque places so you will not get bored.
The journey will be along the banks of River Ganga, if you ever feel that you are losing energy just have a look at the water of sacred river Ganga it will refresh you as the water looks so clear and refreshing. On the way visit Gangnani; hot spring. You will go through lush green forest which will soothe your mind and from the places where you will get the views of the Great Himalayas and Harsil.
Reach Gangotri, which is famous for a holy pilgrimage. Go to a hotel rest there for some time and then explore this place on your own. Ganga Aarti is very famous here don’t miss to attend that.
Day 2: Gangotri to Chirbasa (9 km) (6 hours) (11761 feet)
In Chirbasa there are pine trees all around so it is named as “Chirbasa” meaning of Chir is Pine. You have to go through a market and from that trail you will come to a forest area and when you enter there you will have some majestic views of peaks in front, they look mesmerising as you get the front view of mountains. Today’s trek is an easy one as you have to walk on levelled trail. Cross a bridge over a stream and after few minutes a valley unfolds which looks beautiful and picture perfect.
After crossing ridges and going through dense pine forest, you will come across many boulders and the way is between two big boulders, you will stones and rocks on the way, this can also be called boulder zone. Walk carefully on that path so you don’t get slipped because of the rocks, continue walking on the same trail to reach Chirbasa.
The way to Chirbasa is through pine forest, we are going to reach there in few minutes. Chirbasa campsite is surrounded by pine trees and Bhagirathi rivers flows near. From here you can have glance of Gomukh glacier and Bhagirathi group of peaks. Start setting your tents, relax there and dinner and overnight stay in tents.
Day 3: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (5 km) (3 hours) (12761 feet)
Today’s trek is easy and you can reach Bhojbasa with no difficulties. Have your breakfast and start your trek. The path is not narrow and the trail will take you through some landslide prone areas.
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: Bhojbasa to Tapovan (7 km) (6/7 hours) (14202 feet)
Till Gomukh (source of River Ganga) trek is not a difficult one but remains covered in snow and the steep and difficult climb starts from Tapovan. The trail takes you through boulder zone, then you have to climb Gangotri glacier, it needs to be traversed carefully with safety, follow your guide because the trails are not clear. The views get magnificent and welcome you, saints can be seen here meditating they live here permanently.
Now head towards Tapovan which is famous for its grasslands, it is 2 hours away from Gomukh. Ascending is steep but when you reach there the views will leave you spell bound, Mt. Shivling which was visible from day one now you can get the clearer views of it and the other peaks visible from there are Bhagirathi group of peaks and Mt. Meru.
The beautiful meadow of Tapovan is your campsite with surpassing view of mountains. Set your tents and enjoy spending night in the middle of a meadow.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day (Tapovan)
You can just simply rest today at campsite of Tapovan or you can explore places, when we go on a high altitude trek our body needs to adjust according to the environment.
There are divine lakes you can go and see them, explore Neel Tal from where you can see beautiful views of Mt. Meru. The daunting grasslands also needs to be explored so don’t miss out to go there. If you want proper relaxation then you can enjoy the views from your campsite.
Day 6: Tapovan to Nandanvan (8 Km) (5 hours) (14345 feet)
Today you will traverse Gangotri glacier which is one of the challenging parts of this trek, have proper breakfast and packed lunch will be provided which you can have in middle of the day. After crossing a ridge and Akash Ganga stream reach Gangotri glacier from there also the views will not leave your side. Descend and find a way and keep following your guide.
Traversing the Gangotri glacier isn’t easy there is thick ice for which you will need ice axe and trekking equipments. It has some associated challenges, it gets slippery and the rocks fall from above so you need to be aware and very careful. This section can take 2 to 3 hours and then Nandanvan is few steps away and the trail is through landslide prone areas.
Today’s campsite is a beautiful meadow of Nandanvan with amazing views of Mt. Kedar Dome and Mt. Shivling. Have dinner and rest for the night here.
Day 7: Nandanvan to Vasuki Tal (6 km) (6/7 hours) (16332 feet)
The trail to Vasuki Tal from Nandanvan is rocky and ascend is going to be a long one, you may get tired but the terrain isn’t difficult.
It is very cold here in winters and around this heavenly Lake Brahma Kamal grows in abundance. Vasuki Tal is base camp of Mt. Vasuki and Mt. Satopanth, the environment is serene here as very few people visit this place because of its altitude (16332 feet).
It is said that Lord Vishnu took bath in this Lake and it is named “Vasuki Tal” because it resembles snake Vasuki of Lord Shiva which made it sacred, the sight of Chaturangi glacier is beguiling.
This Lake is in an idyllic setting as the views are heart-warming, it freezes in winters. Set your camp near this place and enjoy spending night in untouched surrounding.
Day 8: Vasuki Tal to Nandanvan (6 Km) (4/5 hours)
Descend to Nandavan, it will take 4 to 5 hours. Start descending early so that you can reach on time in good weather condition before it changes. The trekking route of campsite is same, retrace your steps. Have lunch at your campsite and have glance of views sipping evening tea.
Enjoy food and stay in tents.
Day 9: Nandanvan to Bhojbasa (12 km) (6/7 hours)
The morning view of Nandanvan looks mesmerizing and the sun shines over peaks making them look alluring. While descending to Bhojbasa stop at Gomukh which is the source of River Ganga. Bhojbasa was your campsite on Day 4, enjoy the clear views from this campsite. Relax for the night in tents.
Day 10: Bhojbasa to Gangotri (14 km) (6/7 hours)
Today trek back to Gangotri the holy city, descending is easy and you will reach Gangotri in 6 to 7 hours. Reach Gangotri and in the evening you can attend Ganga Aarti, there is spirituality in the atmosphere.
Have your dinner and stay at night in hotel.
Day 11: Bhojbasa to Gangotri (14 km) (6/7 hours)
Trek ends here, after having breakfast leave from Gangotri to Uttarkashi and from there leave for Dehradun. After morning breakfast, Drive from Gangotri to Uttarkashi, have your lunch there and then drive from Dehradun (270 km)
Our service ends here.
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Vasuki Tal Trek, 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 Vasuki Tal Trek. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Vasuki Tal Trek
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 Vasuki Tal 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 Vasuki Tal 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 Vasuki Tal trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Vasuki Tal 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 Vasuki Tal 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 Vasuki Tal trek 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 Black Peak trek map and ways to avoid them.
- Duration: 11 Days
- Highest Points: (4980 m)
- Best Time: May, June, September and October
Vasuki Tal is a high altitude Lake (4,978 m) in Garhwal Himalayan region, it is named Vasuki Tal because it resembles the snake of Lord Shiva and people believe that Lord Vishnu took bath in this Lake and it became sacred. The water is clear and it is fed by Mt. Vasuki.
No vegetation is found here and this lake is in between of two glaciers but plenty of Braham Kamal’s can be found here which makes it look very beautiful, Brahma Kamal are rarely found and can be only seen in Himalayan region.
To reach Vasuki Tal Gangotri Glacier needs to be traversed which makes this trek adventurous and full of thrill. This trek is moderate but there are some difficult sections in which skills are needed.
Chaukhamba Peaks are visible from here and other magnificent Himalayan peaks glimmer from a distance. Vasuki Tal is base of Mt. Vasuki and Mt. Satopanth.
Day 1: DehraDun to Gangotri (10/12 hours) (10,145 feet)
Our team members will meet you at Dehradun Railway Station and then drive to Uttarkashi, Tehri Dam is on the way. This journey is of 10 – 12 hours but you will go through some picturesque places so you will not get bored.
The journey will be along the banks of River Ganga, if you ever feel that you are losing energy just have a look at the water of sacred river Ganga it will refresh you as the water looks so clear and refreshing. On the way visit Gangnani; hot spring. You will go through lush green forest which will soothe your mind and from the places where you will get the views of the Great Himalayas and Harsil.
Reach Gangotri, which is famous for a holy pilgrimage. Go to a hotel rest there for some time and then explore this place on your own. Ganga Aarti is very famous here don’t miss to attend that.
Day 2: Gangotri to Chirbasa (9 km) (6 hours) (11761 feet)
In Chirbasa there are pine trees all around so it is named as “Chirbasa” meaning of Chir is Pine. You have to go through a market and from that trail you will come to a forest area and when you enter there you will have some majestic views of peaks in front, they look mesmerising as you get the front view of mountains. Today’s trek is an easy one as you have to walk on levelled trail. Cross a bridge over a stream and after few minutes a valley unfolds which looks beautiful and picture perfect.
After crossing ridges and going through dense pine forest, you will come across many boulders and the way is between two big boulders, you will stones and rocks on the way, this can also be called boulder zone. Walk carefully on that path so you don’t get slipped because of the rocks, continue walking on the same trail to reach Chirbasa.
The way to Chirbasa is through pine forest, we are going to reach there in few minutes. Chirbasa campsite is surrounded by pine trees and Bhagirathi rivers flows near. From here you can have glance of Gomukh glacier and Bhagirathi group of peaks. Start setting your tents, relax there and dinner and overnight stay in tents.
Day 3: Chirbasa to Bhojbasa (5 km) (3 hours) (12761 feet)
Today’s trek is easy and you can reach Bhojbasa with no difficulties. Have your breakfast and start your trek. The path is not narrow and the trail will take you through some landslide prone areas.
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: Bhojbasa to Tapovan (7 km) (6/7 hours) (14202 feet)
Till Gomukh (source of River Ganga) trek is not a difficult one but remains covered in snow and the steep and difficult climb starts from Tapovan. The trail takes you through boulder zone, then you have to climb Gangotri glacier, it needs to be traversed carefully with safety, follow your guide because the trails are not clear. The views get magnificent and welcome you, saints can be seen here meditating they live here permanently.
Now head towards Tapovan which is famous for its grasslands, it is 2 hours away from Gomukh. Ascending is steep but when you reach there the views will leave you spell bound, Mt. Shivling which was visible from day one now you can get the clearer views of it and the other peaks visible from there are Bhagirathi group of peaks and Mt. Meru.
The beautiful meadow of Tapovan is your campsite with surpassing view of mountains. Set your tents and enjoy spending night in the middle of a meadow.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day (Tapovan)
You can just simply rest today at campsite of Tapovan or you can explore places, when we go on a high altitude trek our body needs to adjust according to the environment.
There are divine lakes you can go and see them, explore Neel Tal from where you can see beautiful views of Mt. Meru. The daunting grasslands also needs to be explored so don’t miss out to go there. If you want proper relaxation then you can enjoy the views from your campsite.
Day 6: Tapovan to Nandanvan (8 Km) (5 hours) (14345 feet)
Today you will traverse Gangotri glacier which is one of the challenging parts of this trek, have proper breakfast and packed lunch will be provided which you can have in middle of the day. After crossing a ridge and Akash Ganga stream reach Gangotri glacier from there also the views will not leave your side. Descend and find a way and keep following your guide.
Traversing the Gangotri glacier isn’t easy there is thick ice for which you will need ice axe and trekking equipments. It has some associated challenges, it gets slippery and the rocks fall from above so you need to be aware and very careful. This section can take 2 to 3 hours and then Nandanvan is few steps away and the trail is through landslide prone areas.
Today’s campsite is a beautiful meadow of Nandanvan with amazing views of Mt. Kedar Dome and Mt. Shivling. Have dinner and rest for the night here.
Day 7: Nandanvan to Vasuki Tal (6 km) (6/7 hours) (16332 feet)
The trail to Vasuki Tal from Nandanvan is rocky and ascend is going to be a long one, you may get tired but the terrain isn’t difficult.
It is very cold here in winters and around this heavenly Lake Brahma Kamal grows in abundance. Vasuki Tal is base camp of Mt. Vasuki and Mt. Satopanth, the environment is serene here as very few people visit this place because of its altitude (16332 feet).
It is said that Lord Vishnu took bath in this Lake and it is named “Vasuki Tal” because it resembles snake Vasuki of Lord Shiva which made it sacred, the sight of Chaturangi glacier is beguiling.
This Lake is in an idyllic setting as the views are heart-warming, it freezes in winters. Set your camp near this place and enjoy spending night in untouched surrounding.
Day 8: Vasuki Tal to Nandanvan (6 Km) (4/5 hours)
Descend to Nandavan, it will take 4 to 5 hours. Start descending early so that you can reach on time in good weather condition before it changes. The trekking route of campsite is same, retrace your steps. Have lunch at your campsite and have glance of views sipping evening tea.
Enjoy food and stay in tents.
Day 9: Nandanvan to Bhojbasa (12 km) (6/7 hours)
The morning view of Nandanvan looks mesmerizing and the sun shines over peaks making them look alluring. While descending to Bhojbasa stop at Gomukh which is the source of River Ganga. Bhojbasa was your campsite on Day 4, enjoy the clear views from this campsite. Relax for the night in tents.
Day 10: Bhojbasa to Gangotri (14 km) (6/7 hours)
Today trek back to Gangotri the holy city, descending is easy and you will reach Gangotri in 6 to 7 hours. Reach Gangotri and in the evening you can attend Ganga Aarti, there is spirituality in the atmosphere.
Have your dinner and stay at night in hotel.
Day 11: Bhojbasa to Gangotri (14 km) (6/7 hours)
Trek ends here, after having breakfast leave from Gangotri to Uttarkashi and from there leave for Dehradun. After morning breakfast, Drive from Gangotri to Uttarkashi, have your lunch there and then drive from Dehradun (270 km)
Our service ends here.
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Vasuki Tal Trek, 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 Vasuki Tal Trek. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Vasuki Tal Trek
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 Vasuki Tal 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 Vasuki Tal 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 Vasuki Tal trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Vasuki Tal 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 Vasuki Tal 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 Vasuki Tal trek 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 Black Peak trek map and ways to avoid them.