The Har Ki Dun Trek is a captivating journey nestled in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in the Uttarkashi district of north-west Uttarakhand. Known as the ‘Valley of Gods’, it is a cradle-shaped valley that can only be reached by trekking. The trek takes you through pristine valleys and ancient villages of the Garhwal Himalayas, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows. The trek starts from Sankri village, which also serves as a basecamp for other popular treks. The total trek distance to the Har Ki Dun valley is 50 km, taking 2 to 3 days to reach the valley and another 2 days to return. The Har Ki Dun Trek holds a unique cultural significance. The name “Har Ki Dun” has two interpretations – the literal translation being ‘Valley of Gods’ where ‘Har’ is the name for Shiva, one of the trinity gods as per Hinduism, and ‘Dun’ means valley. The second interpretation is more closely related to local culture and traditions, translating to ‘The sound of Shiva or the Sound of God’. Every year, the valley hosts a festival to welcome Lord Someshwara, a form of Shiva, with a drummer playing the drum. The best time to visit is from July to September. The trek offers an enchanting experience, making it an ideal choice for avid trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Har ki dun Trek | Himalaya Shelter
