Overview
Har ki Dun ( Vally of Gods)
Har Ki Dun (meaning “Valley of Shiva” or “Stairway to Heaven”) is one of the most ancient and culturally rich trekking trails in the western Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Known for its deep-rooted history, traditional wooden villages, and stunning mountain views, it offers a blend of natural beauty and timeless culture.
Highlights
- Meaning & Mythology: The name translates to "Valley of Gods" (Har for Lord Shiva and Dun for valley). According to local legend and Hindu mythology, the Pandavas used this very valley and the adjacent Swargarohini peak as their path to heaven (Swarga).
- Altitude: The valley sits at an elevation of approximately 3,566 meters (about 11,700 feet) above sea level, with surrounding glacier viewpoints reaching higher (such as the Jaundhar Glacier at around 14,100 feet).
- Scenic Landscapes: The trek winds alongside the pristine turquoise Supin River, passing through dense alpine forests of pine, oak, and chestnut, sprawling meadows, terraced mountain fields, and cascading waterfalls.
- Rich Culture & Villages: Trekkers pass through remote, centuries-old Garhwali wooden villages like Taluka, Gangad, and Osla. Notably, Osla features an ancient temple traditionally associated with Duryodhana from the Mahabharata.
- Majestic Peaks: The valley offers breathtaking, close-up views of major Himalayan summits, most notably the striking north face of the Swargarohini massif, as well as Bandarpoonch and Black Peak (Kala Nag).
