Har Ki Dun Trek with Ruinsara Tal – A Hidden Himalayan Gem

Har Ki Dun Trek with Ruinsara Tal – A Hidden Himalayan Gem

Introduction

The Har Ki Dun Trek with Ruinsara Tal is one of the most scenic and rewarding treks in the Garhwal Himalayas. Located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarakhand, this trail is a paradise for trekkers who seek adventure, serenity, and breathtaking landscapes. The combination of Har Ki Dun Valley and Ruinsara Tal Trek offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, alpine meadows, glacial rivers, and ancient Himalayan culture.

Har Ki Dun Trek Overview

The Har Ki Dun Valley trek is known as the ‘Valley of Gods’ due to its deep connection with Hindu mythology. Legends say that this was the route taken by the Pandavas on their way to Swargarohini Peak. The Har Ki Dun trek distance is approximately 44 km, and it usually takes around 7-8 days to complete. The trek starts from Sankri Village, a charming Himalayan hamlet, and passes through picturesque villages like Osla and Seema, where you can witness the traditional lifestyle of the local Garhwali people.

The Beauty of Ruinsara Tal

One of the highlights of this trek is Ruinsara Tal, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-clad peaks. Located at an altitude of 3,500 meters, Ruinsara Lake trek is a perfect extension to the Har Ki Dun trek, offering pristine beauty and solitude. The lake is encircled by Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak, creating a surreal ambiance for nature lovers and photographers.

Best Time for Har Ki Dun and Ruinsara Tal Trek

The best time to visit Har Ki Dun Trek and Ruinsara Tal is during summer (April to June) and post-monsoon (September to November). In summer, the valley is covered with lush greenery, while in autumn, the landscapes turn golden with clear blue skies. Winters (December to March) bring heavy snowfall, making the trek more challenging but incredibly rewarding for seasoned trekkers.

Trekking Route and Itinerary

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (6,400 ft, 200 km, 10 hours) Start your journey from Dehradun and drive to Sankri, a beautiful village and the base camp for many Himalayan treks.

Day 2: Sankri to Taluka to Seema (8,200 ft, 12 km, 7 hours) A short drive to Taluka, followed by a trek through thick forests and alongside the Tons River, reaching Seema village.

Day 3: Seema to Har Ki Dun (11,500 ft, 12 km, 6 hours) Trek through meadows, crossing small streams, with breathtaking views of Swargarohini Peak before reaching Har Ki Dun campsite.

Day 4: Acclimatization and exploration at Har Ki Dun Enjoy the panoramic views, explore nearby Jaundhar Glacier, and immerse in the beauty of the valley.

Day 5: Har Ki Dun to Ruinsara Tal (11,800 ft, 8 km, 5 hours) Trek through high-altitude terrain, crossing meadows and dense forests to reach the mesmerizing Ruinsara Lake.

Day 6: Ruinsara Tal to Seema (12 km, 6 hours) Retrace your steps through the scenic trail back to Seema village.

Day 7: Seema to Sankri (12 km, 6 hours) Trek back to Taluka and drive to Sankri for a well-deserved rest.

Day 8: Sankri to Dehradun Drive back to Dehradun, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.

Things to Carry

  • Trekking Shoes – Good grip and ankle support
  • Warm Clothes – Thermal layers, fleece jackets, windproof jackets
  • Backpack – 50-60 liters with rain cover
  • Trekking Pole – Essential for steep ascents and descents
  • Water Bottles and Purification Tablets
  • Snacks and Dry Fruits
  • Camera and Power Bank
  • Personal Medication and First Aid Kit

Why Choose Har Ki Dun with Ruinsara Tal Trek?

  1. Rich Flora and Fauna – Explore pine forests, rhododendrons, alpine meadows, and rare Himalayan wildlife like Himalayan Monal, Black Bear, and Musk Deer.
  2. Mythological Significance – Witness ancient temples and sacred sites related to the Mahabharata.
  3. Spectacular Views – Close-up views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak.
  4. Less Crowded Trail – Compared to other famous Himalayan treks, this trail offers peace and solitude.

Conclusion

The Har Ki Dun Trek with Ruinsara Tal is an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, cultural richness, and spiritual significance. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trekker, this trek will leave you spellbound with its raw natural beauty and mesmerizing landscapes. So, pack your bags and embark on this unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas!

Plan your Har Ki Dun and Ruinsara Tal trek today and explore the hidden gems of Uttarakhand!