Located near the border of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, the natural beauty of Har Ki Doon is a delight for the senses. This trekking paradise boasts stunning scenery, charming villages, thrilling climbs and descents, and a majestic view of Mt. Swarogihini. Along the way, you will also encounter sacred sites, rushing streams, and a peaceful river, all surrounded by heavenly camping spots and abundant greenery. If you are seeking an untouched and uncrowded trek in Uttarakhand, Har Ki Doon is the perfect choice. To convince you further, we have compiled reasons why a visit to Har Ki Doon is a must.
Discover the charm of living in Osla Village
With traditions dating back to Mahabharata era, Osla village can be reached by a trek to Har Ki Doon valley. People of this village worship the defamed character of Mahabharata, named Duryodhan. As per the theories, it is believed Duryodhan might have been a boon for these people during that era, hence the temple was built for him. Till date the villagers only preach to Duryodhan and no other god.
The village abides by the rule of a king who visits once a month. On the king’s arrival, a grand Pooja is conducted for the entire village. When visiting the village, it is important to respect and adhere to their specific rules and regulations. It is advised not to touch any of their temples or other religious items. The villagers hold themselves in high regard compared to outsiders, but they are also very welcoming and hospitable if you plan to stay in the village.
The clothing of these villagers clearly shows their strong connection to their heritage, traditions, and customs. The majority of the villagers sustain themselves through agriculture, cultivating crops such as rajma, potato, and rice. Additionally, some villagers craft their own wool to create jackets and coats. Purchasing directly from them would greatly support their livelihoods.
Postcard-like Campsites
Staying connected to nature is a dream for many nature lovers, and when it comes to Har Ki Doon, there are several stunning campsites that will create lasting memories for your stay. Setting up tents by the river or in the midst of the valley, surrounded by countless stars, is a desire for every trekker. And if you’re fortunate, you may witness one of the most breathtaking sunrises on Earth. The vibrant shades of orange and red against the backdrop of the Himalayas will be the highlight and the most unforgettable part of this trekking experience.
Explore a diverse range of plant and animal life.
While journeying from Osla to Sankri, one encounters a diverse array of trees, plants, animals, and birds. This abundance can be attributed to the location of this route within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary boasts a wide range of fauna, including the Brown Bear, Musk Deer, Snow Cock, Golden Eagle, Koklas Pheasant, Bearded Vulture, Parakeets, as well as a variety of flora such as Blue Poppy, Orchids, Lilies, Primulas, Potentillas, and Anemonies. This rich biodiversity undoubtedly adds excitement and wonder for those embarking on the trek.
Spectacle Majestic Mountain Views
The Pandavas from the Mahabharata took the exact route to reach heaven through Mt Swargarohini, which is also a prominent feature in the sky above Har Ki Doon valley! The views of the mountains on this trek are absolutely breathtaking, including Swargarohini – I, II, III, Bandarpoonch, and Blackpeak. Additionally, you can catch a glimpse of the Ruinsara peaks from this location. In essence, no other trek with such rich mythological significance can truly be called the “Valley of Gods”.
Isolation from the bustling world
Located in the heart of the mountains, this undiscovered journey offers the opportunity to appreciate the stunning scenery of the Himalayan region in solitude. The path transports you to a bygone era, where the untouched surroundings create a heavenly experience for all who venture there. Strolling through alpine meadows, moraine ridges, glacier basins, and pine forests induces a mesmerizing state. Inhabited by villages that have stood for over 3000 years, hikers can also immerse themselves in the lifestyle of rural communities.
