Harsil

Harsil’s beauty is yet unexplored by the enthusiasts’ travelers. It is surrounded by the breathtaking splendour of the majestic Himalayan peaks. There are numerous trekking routes in and around Harsil offering bewitching beauties of nature. It is picturesque valley in the Hiamalayas at an altitude of 2620 m, surrounded by mountain ranges extending high above 3659m to 4923 m. There are Deodar trees in this valley.

This place is also known as a major apple growing zone. A Britisher Mr. Wilson planted the first apple tree here in 19th century. His cottage was till recently a major attraction in the area. A major fire destroyed the cottage ending an important chapter of the history.

The adventurous tourists have the choice to set off on various treks that introduce them to beautiful meadows, waterfalls and valleys.

Harsil has a cool climate throughout and gets snow bound between December to March.

Harsil is a cantonment area. Apart from being at the way to Gangtori, it is also the entry point to the Kinnaur Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh. One can walk through the pristine valleys, tall trees, encircling lakes and go for long treks around Harsil.

Place to see in Harsil

Gangotri
Couched in the magnificent Garhwal himalayas, Gangotri is set at an altitude of 3048. It is on the northernmost part of the state of Uttarakhand. Gangotri temple is one of the four constituents of the infamous Char Dham Yatra, other three shrines being Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. Gangotri temple is dedicated to Goddess Gangotri. The sacred stone near the Gangotri temple denotes the place where Ganga first descended on the earth.

Gaumukh Glacier
Gaumukh Glacier is the source of river Ganga and hence has its own place in the hearts of the pilgrims as well as adventure lovers. It is 18 km walk from Gangotri town.

Dharali
Dhariali is a beautiful place just 3km from Harsil approachable through a motorable road. The place where Goddess Ganga stays during winters is Mukhwa village just half a kilometer from Harsil. During winters when the doors of the Gangotri temple remain closed, prayers for Maa Ganga take place at Mukhwa village. Since Harsil lies in the inner line, foreign tourist can rest at Dharali also. From Dharali, a 2 km walk takes you to a natural lake Saat Tal which is another tourist attraction in the vicinity.

Dayara Bugyal
Dayara Bugyal can be reached from Bhatwari which is 10 km fand 12 km from village Raithal and Barsu respectively. Further a giant trek of about 7 km takes you to Dayara Bugyal. Dayara Bugyal is being developed as a winter sports centre attracts a large number of tourists during winters. During winters it provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq. kms.

Nachiketa Tal
Nachiketa Tal can be accessed from Chaurangi-Khal (29 km. from Uttarkashi town by road) and a further trek of 3 km. through very scenic surroundings. It is belived to be created by Nachiketa, the son of sage Uddalak.

Dodi Tal
Dodi Tal is situated at an elevation of 3307 m surrounded by dense forests of oak, deodar and rhododendrons. The crystal clear lake is full of rare fishes like the Himalayan Golden Trouts. The trek to Dodi Tal commences from Uttarkashi to Kalyani and is approchable by motor. Kalyani to Agoda is a gradual trek through woods, fields and villages. The 17 kms. trek from Agoda to Dodi Tal is steep and passes through thick forests.

How to Reach

Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, 244 kms.

Rail: Nearest railhead is Rishikesh, 224 kms.

Road: Well connected by a motorable road

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