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Dr. Priyanka Ghosh Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce School of Commerce, Accounting and Finance Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University) |
A few trips aren’t just about getting to the destination; they’re about enjoying every step. Our recent trek to Gaumukh, the sacred source of the Ganga, was precisely that—an adventure that touched the soul and will stay with us forever.
The Beginning: Gangotri at Dawn
We started our trek from Gangotri around 5 in the morning, welcomed by thick fog and freezing winds. Our first halt was at the forest check post, where the trek permits were checked. They allow 150 people on the trail daily, keeping the route peaceful and untouched.
Here, we had to declare all the plastic we were carrying and leave a refundable deposit of ₹200. The amount was returned once we showed the same plastic at the end of the trek—a smart step to protect the fragile ecosystem.
The Trail: Nature’s Untouched Canvas
We kicked off the 20 km trek from the check post to Gaumukh. One of the most exciting moments was crossing the roaring Ganga on a hand-pulled ropeway—it felt like an adventure all on its own.
There was no sign of modern life here—no internet, vehicles, or electricity—just peace. Walking along the narrow trail with the Ganga flowing beside us, birds chirping, and fresh mountain air all around made us feel closer to nature than ever.
We walked in awe as the sun slowly rose behind the Himalayan peaks, turning the sky golden. It was one of those moments you can’t capture in photos or words—you must experience it yourself.
Reaching Bhojwasa: A Night Under the Stars
After almost six hours of trekking, we stopped for the night at Bhojwasa, a tiny place with just a government hut and a few cottages. The night was pitch dark, the winds were icy cold, and the hot plate of khichdi we got there felt better than any five-star meal. What made it special was the simple warmth of being so close to nature—it’s something we’ll never forget.
The Uniqueness of this Trek
The Gaumukh trek is not just about reaching the source of the Ganga—it’s about returning to simplicity, experiencing raw nature, and connecting with yourself. This trek truly feels magical if you’re looking for peace, adventure, and a reminder of life’s simple joys.