Harsil Valley, a small village and cantonment region, is in Uttarkashi district, in the stunning state of Uttarakhand. Situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, Harsil Valleyis one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the district. Harsil, which covers 1553 square kilometres, is about 71 kilometres from Uttarkashi and 22 kilometres from Gangotri. The Harsil Valley is a perfect location with a lot of historical significance. Also, Harsil valley gives adventure seekers opportunities for daring activities like trekking. This town is at a perfect location, overlooking the Bhagirathi River. Besides this, there are so many things to do in Harsil valley.
Let’s Discuss Top 10 Things To Do In Harsil Valley:
#1. Gangotri Temple (25.1 kms from Harsil valley/ 30 mins)
One of the four Char Dhams and a small village, Gangotri is known for its temple, which is the focal point of the community. It is India’s most revered and significant temple dedicated to the river Ganga.
The sacred river’s source is in Gaumukh, which is situated atop the Gangotri glacier. It is reachable from Gangotri by a quick 19-kilometer hike. However, the Ganga is said to have dropped from heaven at Gangotri when Lord Shiva let the powerful river escape his gorgeous locks, according to Hindu mythology. One of the most outstanding things to do in Harsil valley is visiting Gangotri temple
#2. Dharali (6 kms/ 15 mins):
Nestled on the serene banks of the Ganges River is the charming village of Dharali. This village is located in Rajgarhi tehsil or block and is perched at a height of 648 metres above sea level. Three kilometres is a good distance for the fairy tale hamlet of Dharali to be located from the major town. Dharali is well-known for its shimmering apple orchards and Rajma farming.
#3. Mukhwas Village (4 kms from the city centre/ 10 mins)
Mukhwas Village is a well-liked tourist destination in Harsil valley. Since Gangotri frequently experiences significant snowfall, which makes the area pristine and lovely, it is the winter residence of Goddess Gangotri.
Numerous people come to this location to worship the Goddess and take in its natural beauty. Visiting Mukhwas village is one of the best things to do in Harsil valley.
#4. Gangani (26 kms from Harsil valley/35 mins)
The main attraction of Gangnani, which is 26 kilometer’s ahead of Harsil, is its hot spring. An idyllic location with a breathtaking view of the Himalayas draws a lot of people each year.
Read Also: Top 10 best famous places in Himachal Pradesh
#5. Sattal Harsil Trek: (10kms/18 mins)
Seven freshwater lakes (Sat = seven, Tal = lake) offer a habitat for migratory birds and expansive vistas for the weary traveller. Situated at an elevation of 1370 metres above sea level, these lakes are encircled by verdant oak and pine forests.
#6. Bhojbasa (31.4 kms from Harsil valley/ 1 hour approximately)
Bhojbasa is a picturesque location amidst rough terrain, rising 3,775 metres above sea level. The 14-kilometer walk to Bhojbasa begins in Gangotri. The Bhagirathi River and rocky terrain are features of the journey.The final lodging stop before reaching the revered Gaumukh Glacier is Bhojwasa. It is located five kilometres before the Ganges River’s source, the Gaumukh Glacier. Enchanting views of the Bhagirathi peaks (6,856 mts) may be seen from this lovely location.
#7. Dayara Bugyal (55.2 kms/ 2hr 2 min)
Dayara Bugyal offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range from its 3,048-meter elevation above sea level. In the local language, “buggyal” literally translates as “high altitude meadow.” Dayara Bugyal is in the state of Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district. It covers a huge area of 28 square kilometer’s and is a verdant meadow. Another way to write Dayara Bugyal is as Dayara Bugyal. The natural little lake known as Barnala Tal is the walking route’s high point.
#8. Dodital (25.6 kms from Harsil valley/ 33 mins)
Dodital is a serene lake with fresh water that is mysterious and has peaceful surroundings. One of the relatively rare bodies of water with Himalayan trout is Dodital. The uncommon Himalayan trout, referred to locally as “Dodi,” is the inspiration behind the name of this charming lake.
#9. Govind Wildlife Sanctuary (39 kms from Harsil valley/ 1 hour 10mins)
The Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand is home to the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, which was founded in 1955 and spans 953 square kilometer’s. The park itself is 472 square kilometer’s in size and features mountains such as Swarg Rohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpunch.
#10. Wilson Cottage (Exploration time 1 hour)
The valley of Harsil is home to Wilson Cottage. At 2,633 metres, Harsil is situated 72 kilometer’s away from Uttarkashi. In true Indian manner, he constructed Wilson Cottage. Other structures in the vicinity have been inspired by the usage of wood and stone.
Best Time To Visit Harsil Valley
This valley experiences beautiful weather throughout the year The months of April through mid-July are the ideal times to explore Harshil Valley because of the lovely weather. The sky is still clear during this period, making the summits of the mountains easy to see. The ideal time to go sightseeing is now. These months see a fair number of visitors to Harsil.
Harshil is also accessible from September through November. The weather is still fairly chilly during these months, with cool breezes blowing and a noticeable dip in temperature.
Harshil experiences a good amount of snowfall throughout the winter months, which run from October to January. On the other hand, February offers nice weather and the melting of snow. The greatest time to visit Harsil if you enjoy snow hiking is around December.
The area experiences a lot of snowfall in the winter, which makes it a great place for people who enjoy the seclusion of the snow.
Read Also: Top 10 Snow Valley Resort Manali
How To Reach Harsil Valley?
- By Air: The closest airport to the valley is Jolly Grant Airport. It is located 232 kilometres away. Motorable roads connect Jolly Grant Airport to Harshil, also known as Harsil. Harsil, Tehri, and Uttarkashi may all be reached via taxi. Uttarkashi is 78 kilometres away.
- By Train: The closest train station is 215 km from Harsil in Rishikesh. From Rishikesh, there are buses and taxis that go to Uttarkashi, Tehri, and Harsil. In addition, there are other ways to get from Dehradun to Harsil. From Dehradun, it is 220 miles away, and taking a taxi takes eight to nine hours.
- By Road:The valley has good road connectivity to Uttarakhand’s main tourist attractions. You can easily find buses and taxis to this valley from all of Uttarakhand’s major cities, including Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Haldwani. N.H. 108 leads to Harsil. From ISBT, Dehradun, buses and taxis are accessible. By NH34, it is 217.6 km from Dehradun.
Conclusion
Here we have given you an overview on some of the best things to do in Harsil valley. Harsil valley is an outstanding location. So, next time while planning your vacation, don’t forget to add Harsil valley in your bucket list. You will have a great experience after exploring all these places near to Harsil valley. Also, harsil valley is ideal place for the nature lovers, photographers and for sightseeing.
FAQs:
Q. What Is Harsil Valley Known For?
Harsil is well-known for its apple produce, which was brought to the region by British colonist Fredric E. Wilson, so the story goes. Wilson reportedly moved to this hamlet after falling in love with Harsil and a local girl. He transformed Harsil’s economy by bringing apple farming to the region.
Q. Is It Worth Going To Harsil?
Yes, a trip to the Harsil Valley is well worth it. Recent years have seen a rise in the popularity of this charming village among nature lovers and tourists. You can go on a number of strenuous hiking paths in the area around Harsil.
Q. What Is The Best Time To Visit Harsil valley?
In Harsil, April through June sees the highest volume of tourism. The nicest weather in this area occurs at this time. It will be somewhat warm throughout the day and comfortably cool at night. The road will stay open, and you might even discover some snow if you travel all the way to Gangotri.
