Weather and Climate Info:

• Summer (April – June)
  

  During the summer months, from April to June, Har Ki Dun offers a pleasant and cool climate. The temperatures generally range from 5°C to 15°C. This period is characterized by clear skies, lush green meadows, and blooming flowers. It is an ideal time for trekking and exploring the picturesque landscapes of Har Ki Dun.

• Monsoon (July – September)
  

  The monsoon season in Har Ki Dun, from July to September, brings moderate to heavy rainfall. The valley transforms into a vibrant green paradise with the rain, offering a unique and challenging experience for trekkers. The trails can be most challenging due to occasional continuous rainfall.

• Autumn (October – November)
  

  Autumn, spanning from October to November, is a breathtaking period in Har Ki Dun. The weather is cool, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C. The foliage transforms, with leaves changing colors to hues of red, orange, and brown. The clear skies and crisp air provide excellent visibility, making it an ideal time for trekkers to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

• Winter (December – February)
  

  Winter in Har Ki Dun is a magical experience. The temperatures can drop significantly, ranging from -15°C to 5°C. The region gets covered in a blanket of snow, creating a serene and pristine landscape. December marks the beginning of heavy snowfall, and the trekking trails may be challenging.

  The two seasons, summer and autumn, showcase the unique beauty of Har Ki Dun and cater to the preferences of trekkers who seek either a green, vibrant environment or a colorful autumnal spectacle. While Har Ki Dun may not be accessible year-round, its seasonal offerings make it a captivating destination for those looking to explore its natural wonders.
  
  
• Temperature Overview

  Summer (May – June): Day: 15°C, Night: 5°C

  Monsoon (July – August): Day: 10°C, Night: 2°C

  Autumn (September – November): Day: 10°C, Night: 0°C

  Winter (December – February): Day: 5°C, Night: -15°C

Mountain Ranges, River Valley & Lake:

Mountain Range and Scenery:

Har Ki Dun, nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, is surrounded by the captivating beauty of the Garhwal Himalayan range. At an elevation of around 3,600 meters, the valley is framed by towering peaks such as Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak. The landscape boasts an exquisite mix of alpine meadows, dense forests, and snow-clad summits. During winter, the entire region transforms into a pristine snowscape, enhancing the scenic allure. Har ki Dun offers some rarely explored trails such as Jaundhar Glacier, Devkiyara Bugyal, and Hata Peak.

River Valley and Water Availability:

The trek to Har Ki Dun follows the course of the Supin River, adding to the charm of the journey. The river valley provides a constant companion to trekkers, offering a serene environment with the sound of flowing water. Water sources are available at strategic points along the trek, ensuring trekkers have access to clean and refreshing natural water. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to carry sufficient water during stretches where availability may be limited.

Frozen Lake – Maninda Tal:

While Har Ki Dun doesn’t have a frozen lake, the nearby Maninda Tal is a notable attraction. This pristine lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush meadows. The trail leading to Maninda Tal offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, adding a touch of tranquility to the trekking experience.

Overall Landscape and Environment:

Har Ki Dun unfolds a diverse canvas of natural wonders, featuring dense forests of pine and deodar, expansive alpine meadows, and the backdrop of towering Himalayan peaks. The trek is renowned for its rich biodiversity, allowing trekkers to witness various flora and fauna along the way. The picturesque landscape, combined with the cultural significance of the region, makes Har Ki Dun a holistic adventure.

In summary, the Har Ki Dun trek invites adventurers into the embrace of the Garhwal Himalayas, offering a journey through alpine meadows, dense forests, and along the Tons River. With its stunning mountain vistas and diverse landscapes, Har Ki Dun promises a trekking experience that seamlessly combines natural beauty with cultural richness.

Flora and Fauna:

Flora:

The Har Ki Dun region in Uttarakhand, India, boasts a rich and diverse range of flora that adds to the allure of the trek. As you traverse through this enchanting landscape, you’ll find dense forests dominated by majestic pine, oak, and rhododendron trees, creating a lush canopy overhead. In the spring season, the forests come alive with vibrant hues as rhododendrons blossom in shades of red, pink, and white bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. The area is also home to a variety of Himalayan wildflowers, including the sacred Brahma Kamal, making it a haven for botanists and photographers.

Fauna:

Har Ki Dun is equally captivating when it comes to wildlife, offering a diverse array of animals and birds. Birdwatchers have the opportunity to spot the Himalayan Monal pheasants, renowned for their iridescent plumage, along with eagles, vultures, and various species of finches and owls. The region hosts an abundant avian population, including notable species such as:

Black Francolin, Koklass Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, Brown-fronted Woodpecker, Himalayan Woodpecker, Scaly-bellied Woodpecker, Great Barbet, White-throated Kingfisher, Crested Kingfisher, Slaty-headed Parakeet, Himalayan Swiftlet, Snow Pigeon, Oriental turtle Dove, Black Kite, Lammergeier, Himalayan Griffon, Common Buzzard, Black-headed Jay, Eurasian Jay, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Red-billed Blue Magpie, Red-billed Chough, Large-billed Crow, Common Raven, Spotted Nutcracker, Yellow-browed Fantail, Bronze Drongo, Brown Dipper, Blue Whistling Thrush, Blue-capped Redstart, White-capped Water Redstart, Plumbeous Water Redstart, White-cheeked Nuthatch, White-tailed Nuthatch, Eurasian Treecreeper, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, Rufous-Vented Tit, Spot-winged Tit, Grey-crested Tit, Green-backed Tit, Black-throated Tit, Black-lored Tit, Great Tit, Yellow-browed Tit, Winter Wren, Himalayan Bulbul, Red-vented Bulbul, Black Bulbul, Striated Prinia, Lemon-rumped Warbler, Tickell’s Leaf Warbler, Mountain Chiffchaff, Oriental White-eye, White-throated Laughingthrush, Streaked Laughingthrush, Black-chinned Babbler, White-throated Shrike Babbler, White-browed Fulvetta, Whiskered Yuhina, Rufous Sibia, Russet Sparrow, Citrine Wagtail, Alpine Accentor, Plain Mountain finch, Red-mantled Rosefinch, Rock Bunting, Chestnut-eared Bunting.

The forested areas provide a habitat for various mammals, including Himalayan langurs, wild foxes, Indian Crested Porcupines, Yellow-throated martens, Wild boars, Black bears, Ibexes, Blue sheep, and the elusive leopards, adding an element of mystery and excitement to the trekking experience in Har Ki Dun.

Photography Tips:

Golden Hours for Lighting: The Har Ki Dun trek offers stunning lighting conditions. Capture early morning and late afternoon scenes to leverage soft and golden light. Avoid midday when the light can be harsh, but it can also create compelling contrasts in the landscape.

Flora and Fauna Focus: Har Ki Dun is rich in biodiversity. Capture the vibrant rhododendrons in spring, lush greenery in monsoon, or snow-covered trees in winter. Use a zoom lens for wildlife shots, maintaining a safe distance to avoid disturbing the animals.

Landscape Photography Essentials: The panoramic views of the Himalayas are breathtaking. Keep a wide-angle lens handy to capture the vast landscape. Incorporate elements like trekkers or tents in the foreground for scale and depth.

Experiment with Perspectives: Vary your angles and perspectives for unique shots. A low-angle shot of a trail leading into the mountains can add depth and intrigue to your photos.

Rule of Thirds: Compose balanced and interesting shots by using the rule of thirds. Divide your frame into nine equal segments and place key elements along these lines or their intersections.

Capture Local Culture: Har Ki Dun trek passes through quaint villages. Document local architecture, people, and daily life, ensuring you seek permission before photographing individuals.

Night Sky Photography: Utilize the clear skies at high altitudes for astrophotography. Use a tripod and long exposure settings to capture stars, and potentially the Milky Way.

Be Weather Prepared: The Himalayan weather is unpredictable. Protect your camera equipment from rain and snow, and keep batteries warm in cold weather to prevent quick drainage.

Travel Light: Prioritize essential gear for high-altitude trekking. Minimize equipment to reduce the weight you carry.

Respect the Environment: Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid damaging the natural environment or disturbing wildlife while capturing your shots.

Bonus Tip – Patience is Key: Sometimes, waiting for the right moment, light, or movement can make a significant difference in capturing a memorable photograph. Practice patience during your trek.

Things to Carry:

Hiking Shoes

Type: We recommend that you have to look for shoes that are water-resistant and have a deep yet flexible sole to sustain on Himalayan terrains.

Note: Dynamic rough terrains hold uncertain threats. The pair of shoes that has the advantage of overcoming those threats will help you to maintain your confidence in balancing.

Backpack

Type: It purely depends on the kind of Trek you are planning to do.

(15-20) liters will be ideal for short treks of (1-3) days.

(40-60) liters will be ideal for long treks of (3-10) days.

Note: A backpack comes under very essential for the activity like trekking. You will have a requirement of your Backpack throughout the journey for your belongings and all the essentials you need. We recommend you test the bag and choose it according to your height, the Trek where you are taking & the comfort it provides.

Daypack

Type: A (10-15) liters waterproof daypack is all you need to have with you for the Summit.

Note: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your essentials (wallet, small water bottle, sunglass, power bank, etc.) with you.

Clothing

Collared T-shirts – Carrying 2 – 3 units of collared T-shirts will be ideal. The collar will help you to keep your neck away from direct sunlight and not too exposed to the Sun and getting sunburnt.

Padded Jacket – Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & capable of keeping you warm at -10 °C to -12 °C temperature.

Fleece Jacket – Fleece jackets are made of very soft and cozy material. It helps you to maintain a comfortable body temperature. Keep 2 Fleece Jackets with you.

Thermals – You will have a requirement of only 1 pair of this in the Winter, For Summer it could be under consideration. It is made of pure cotton and designed in such a way that body heat is blocked between its layers. It will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature falls.

Trek Pants – You will have a requirement of 2 units of Trekking Pants with you always. Between them, one must be convertible. Ensure it is made of Cotton or windproof light material & provides maximum durable comfort.

Sun Caps –The Sunlight might be harsh at higher Altitudes and the direct exposure of sunlight to your head is harmful to your skin. Carry Sun Caps to keep your head cool.

Woolen Caps – You will need woolen caps during the nights to keep your ears and head warm from the very cold breeze.

Waterproof Gloves – You will require waterproof gloves for cold and wet sections of the Trek. Always keep your hands clean & warm, avoid letting your hands wet to get the supporting grip and balance.

Trek Accessories

Trekking Pole: The Trekking/Hiking Pole saves 60% of your energy for conquering a steep slope at a higher altitude. It is advisable to carry a trekking pole with you for the treks.

Head-lamp or Torch: A head-lamp is another important thing that also comes under mandatory items for our Treks. It will help you to deal with the dark. Headlamps become more effective to walk in dark cold weather without approaching through your hand. Featured Torch is also ok for uphill.

Daily essentials

Toiletries: We recommend you carry all your Toiletries essentials and all other personal belongings by yourself to avoid borrowing. Here are some items you could take- tooth-cleaning paste, dental brush, lip moisturizer, skin hydrating cream, facial cleanser, a range of vital creams and items, bathroom tissue/toilet paper, menstrual pads, along with other important personal care items like shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and shaving supplies.

Containers & Vessels: It’s advisable to bring your water containers; we recommend two bottles each with a capacity of 1 liter. Additionally, for both ease and hygiene reasons, please carry your food containers to use for the meals we supply. The metal bottle comes in handy for hot water served in the camps.

Recommended Medicines:

Gauze 1 small roll, Dexamethasone one strip, Nifedipine 5 tablets, Band-aid 10 strips, Avomine 4 tablets (motion sickness), Avil 25mg 4 tablets (allergies), Combiflam 4 tablets (Pain killer), Crepe bandage 3 to 5 meters, Disprin 6 tablets (headache), Crocin 6 tablets (fever), Digene 10 tablets (acidity), Omez/ Rantadine 10 tablets (antacids), Norflox TZ & Lomofen 6 tablets each (diarrhea), Diamox 10 tablets (to prevent AMS), Cotton 1 small roll

Essential Documents Required:

For the Har Ki Dun trek, you must bring specific documents and submit them to the trek leader at the base camp. These include a copy of the Disclaimer, along with one photocopy and the original of a government-issued photo ID. Additionally, a doctor’s medical certificate confirming your fitness for high-altitude conditions is required.

Risks and Precautions:

Here are the risks or challenges you might face on the Har Ki Dun Trek.

Risk of slip/skid:

Har Ki Dun is a moderate trek that tests the patience and challenges the skills of trekkers. It helps in developing confidence, patience, and strategic planning abilities. While trekking in the winter season there is a possibility of slip/ skidding as the trail is scattered with black ice, especially in December, and January, and in addition, weather is very much unpredictable in the Himalayas.

Safety Precautions:

To address these challenges, there will be a briefing session at the base camp about the risks of slipping or skidding. A trained trek leader will guide trekkers in maintaining body balance and show them how to use the trekking poles properly.

The Discovery Hike will provide crampons to the trekker for the snow-filled trails. These crampons are specially designed to hold a better grip on snow trails and minimize the risk of skidding up to 95%.

The Trek leader shall accompany the team and shall aware the team members about the situation.

While choosing your shoe keep in mind that the shoe must have a good grip.

High Altitude Risks:

During the Har Ki Dun trek, which ascends from 6,560 feet to 11,811 feet over 4-5 days, there’s a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), and High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), especially at higher camps like the Har Ki Dun campsite.

Safety Precautions:

To prevent these conditions, trekkers can start taking DIAMOX from the first day, as it significantly reduces AMS risk. Trekkers trained to recognize AMS symptoms should promptly report them to the trek leader. The leaders are prepared with a high-altitude medical kit and oxygen cylinders for safety. If conditions worsen, trekkers may need to move from higher to lower campsites.    

Dealing with Blisters and Cramps:

Blisters cuts and cramps occur very often while we are walking or trekking on uneven trails.

Safety Precautions:

If a trekker experiences a blister or cramp, they need to quickly inform the trek leader, who carries a treatment kit. To prevent blisters, it’s recommended to use well-fitting trekking shoes that are breathable and have a good grip. For leg cramps, apply cramp spray, which both trekkers and the trek leader should have.    

Weather Risks at High Altitude:

The weather at high altitudes, particularly in the Himalayas, is known for being unpredictable and can sometimes worsen quickly.

Safety Precautions:

The trek leader will make the call to either continue or wait for better weather. If the weather stays harsh and could worsen, the team might need to descend for safety. We provide all-weather tents to cope with different weather challenges.

Communication Risks:

As you go higher on the Har Ki Dun trek, from 6,560 ft to 11,811 ft, communication signals weaken and eventually we might lose connection completely, isolating us from the outside world. But there’s no need to worry about this disconnection.     

Safety Precautions:

To stay connected, we use walkie-talkies as an alternative way to communicate with people at different campsites.

Emergency/ immediate rescue:

In case of severe health issues or other emergencies, immediate rescue might be necessary.

Safety Precautions:

If a serious situation arises due to AMS, cramps, illness, or breathing problems, the trek leader and staff will quickly use resources like porters and mules for rescue. A standby team at different campsites will assist, and airlifts are arranged in acute cases.

Risk of low oxygen at higher altitudes:

Oxygen levels decrease as altitude increases, which can cause breathing difficulties. Although low oxygen levels are rare on the Har Ki Dun trek, it’s still a possibility.

Safety Precautions:

If anyone experiences problems related to low oxygen levels, we have plenty of oxygen cylinders with the trek leader and staff. Affected trekkers should inform the leader or descend to a lower campsite for immediate help.

Overall Safety and Cooperation:

Our main goal is your safety and enjoyment during the trek. We ask for your full cooperation and advice against using any objectionable substances while trekking.

Cancellation Policy:

Initiating Cancellation:

To cancel your booking, please send an email to: [email protected]

Cancellation Due to Unforeseen Events:

In case of trek cancellation by Discovery Hike owing to unexpected events such as natural disasters, floods, or political unrest, we will issue a trek voucher. This voucher is valid for one year and can be used for the same trek or a different one.

Cancellation Due to Personal Reasons:

If you decide to cancel your trek for personal reasons, the following terms apply under our cancellation policy:

No Cash Refunds: We do not offer cash refunds once a booking is completed. Instead, a voucher for the same or a reduced amount will be provided.

Cancellation 30 Days or More Before Trek: If you cancel 30 days or more before the trek start date, a voucher for the full booking amount will be issued.

Cancellation 20-29 Days Before Trek:

For cancellations made between 20 to 29 days before the trek start date, 50% of the booking amount will be deducted. The remaining amount will be provided as a voucher.

Cancellation Less Than 20 Days Before Trek: No voucher will be issued for cancellations made less than 20 days before the trek start date.

Pre/Post Trek Services:

River rafting in Rishikesh

Non-AC Cottages with Attached washroom

• Package Cost Rs. 2200/- per person per night on Double Sharing
• Package Cost Rs. 1800/- per person per night on Triple Sharing
• Package Cost Rs. 1500/- per person per night on Quad Sharing

AC Cottages with Attached washroom

• Package Cost Rs. 2300/- per person per night on Double Sharing
• Package Cost Rs. 1900/- per person per night on Triple Sharing
• Package Cost Rs. 1700/- per person per night on Quad Sharing

Package Inclusions: –

• Stay in Cottages
• Food Plan- APAI Plan
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Evening Snacks
• Dinner (Veg-Non veg)
• Common Bonfire
• Bedding (double/triple/quad)
• Cottages
• Music
• Evening Snacks
• River Trekking
• Nature walk
• River rafting 09 km

In-house Activities –

• Free use of the swimming pool
• Chess/Carom/fly
• Volleyball
• Cricket
• Badminton etc.

Sightseeing in Dehradun

Itinerary of the Trip

Pickup in Dehradun at 8:00 AM

Drop back at your desired location in Dehradun by 5:30 PM

Seasonal and Occasional Activities:

Seasonal:

Winter (December to February): While Har Ki Dun captivates adventurers with its natural wonders, it’s important to note that the winter months from December to February are not conducive to trekking in this region. Har Ki Dun experiences harsh weather conditions during this time, with heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. The trails are often covered in deep snow, making them challenging and unsafe for trekking. During the winter season, Har Ki Dun is not recommended for trekking activities due to the extreme weather and difficult trail conditions. It’s advisable for trekkers to plan their visits during the more suitable seasons of summer and autumn when the weather is milder, and the trails are accessible for a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

Spring (March to April): As winter bids goodbye, spring paints the canvas with a burst of colors. The snow melts, giving way to lush green meadows and vibrant flowers. The trek becomes a rhythm of renewed nature and fragrant blooms, providing a visual treat for nature lovers.

Summer (May to June): While daytime temperatures are comfortable, the noon sun can be intense. Summer is a viable time for trekking, though trekkers should be prepared for warmer conditions. The landscape, adorned with its summer attire, offers a different perspective, making it suitable for those who can tolerate the heat.

Monsoon (July to mid-September): Monsoon brings risks of heavy rainfall and lightning, making trekking hazardous. Exploring other trails during this period is recommended to ensure safety. Har Ki Dun’s lush greenery may seem tempting, but it’s wise to avoid the trek during monsoons.

Autumn (mid-September to November): As autumn unfolds, Har Ki Dun showcases crisp mountain tops and small waterfalls. The weather stabilizes, providing favorable conditions for trekking. This season presents trekkers with breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility.

Occasional:

Shawan Mela of Osla: Osla, a cultural hamlet within the Govind Pashu Bihar National Park, unties its cultural knot during the Sawan Mela. Located in the lap of the Har Ki Dun valley, Osla is adorned with the Shomeswara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Sawan Mela becomes a celebration of tradition, spirituality, and community, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this Himalayan region. Pilgrims and locals gather to pay homage, participate in festivities, and share the joy of their cultural practices like Tandi (Holding each other’s hand and traditional dancing in a similar rhythm with circular movement, creating an atmosphere that resonates with the essence of the mountains. The Sawan Mela of Osla stands as a paradigm for the harmony between nature and culture in this visually appealing corner of Uttarakhand.

Local Language Phrases:

Hello – “नमस्कार” (Namaskar)

How are you? – “तुम कसै छौ?” (Tum kase chau?)

My name is – “मेरु नाम …” (Meru naam …)

I am fine. How are you? – “मी ठीक छौं. तुम कसै छौ?” (Mi theek chaun. Tum kase chau?)

Please help me. – “कृपया, मेरी मदद करें.” (kripya, Meri madad karen.)

Tell me the route. – “मुझे रास्ता बता.” (Mujhe rasta bata.)

Where am I right now? – “मी अभी कख छौं?” (Mi abhi kakh chaun?)

Please rescue me. – “कृपया मुझे बचाओ.” (Kripya mujhe bachao.)

Do you have medical kits? – “क्या तुमरे पास मेडिकल किट छै?” (Kya tumre paas medical kit chhai?)

Will you join me? – “तुम मेरु साथ द्याओलु?” (Tum meru sath dyaolu?)

How long will it take to reach the summit? – “शिखर तक पहुंचण मा कती समय लगोलु?” (Shikhar tak pahunchan ma kati samay lagolu?)

Where is the next Maggi point? – “अगला मैगी प्वाइंट कख छ?” (Agla Maggi point kakh ch?)

Will there be too much cold? – “क्या ज्यादा ठंड ह्वालि?” (Kya jyada thand hwaali?)

What is the name of the nearest village? – “नजीकी गांव का नाम क्या छ?” (Naziki gaon ka naam kya ch?)

Is there any update of heavy snowfall? – “क्या भारी हिमपात कु अपडेट छ?” (Kya bhari himpaat ku update ch?)