Tapovan Trek: How to Reach, Best Time to Visit

In the Indian state of Uttarakhand is the picturesque location of Tapovan. It is located in the Chamoli area close to the town of Joshimath at a height of roughly 1,800 metres above sea level. Tapovan is renowned for its beautiful Himalayan views, emerald meadows, and the Alaknanda River that runs through it.

As the starting point for various trekking adventures, including the walk to the renowned Gaumukh glacier and the difficult ascent to the Shivling summit, Tapovan is a well-liked location for trekkers. The region is particularly well-known for its hot springs, which are thought to offer therapeutic benefits.


Tapovan is a significant spiritual attraction in addition to offering hiking and hot springs. It is connected to a number of other Hindu tales and legends and is thought to be the location where the sage Narada meditated. The region is home to a variety of historic temples, including the Lord Shiva-dedicated Tapovan Temple, which draws a sizable number of pilgrims each year.

How to reach Tapovan 

The Indian state of Uttarakhand contains Tapovan in its Chamoli district. Here are a few methods for getting to Tapovan:

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is 287 kilometres distant, is the closest airport to Tapovan. To go to Tapovan from there, take a bus or order a taxi.

By Train: Rishikesh, which is located approximately 272 kilometres from Tapovan, has the closest railway station. To go to Tapovan from there, take a bus or a taxi.

By Road: Tapovan has excellent road access. To get to Tapovan from major Uttarakhand cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Joshimath, you can take a bus or rent a taxi. Joshimath and Tapovan are separated by a distance of roughly 14 kilometres, and you can travel there by cab or shared jeep.

You should be aware that the roads leading to Tapovan are small and steep, and that the weather can change suddenly, especially during the monsoon. Therefore, it is advised to travel cautiously and take the required safety precautions.

Best time to visit Tapovan

The summer months of April to June and the fall months of September to November are the ideal times to visit Tapovan. The skies are typically clear throughout these months, making it possible to see the surrounding Himalayan peaks clearly. The weather is very comfortable during these months.

The summertime temperature fluctuates from 15°C to 30°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking. Wildflowers blanket the meadows of Tapovan during this time, creating a beautiful scene.

Tapovan Trek


Autumn is the best time to go hiking and engage in other outdoor activities because the temperature varies from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius and the skies are typically clear. This is also a perfect time to observe local culture because Uttarakhand celebrates a number of festivals throughout this season.

It is significant to remember that the winter season, which lasts from December to February, can be quite chilly with lows below freezing. During this time, the region has considerable snowfall, making it challenging to reach Tapovan.

The monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, is also not advised due to the region’s significant rains, which can cause landslides and obstructions on the road.

Neared place

There are many attractions to see in and around Tapovan, an attractive location in the Chamoli region of Uttarakhand, India. Here are a few sites you can visit that are close by:

A lovely town called Joshimath is roughly 14 kilometres from Tapovan. It is a well-liked pilgrimage location and is renowned for its magnificent natural beauty and old temples.

Auli: This well-known ski resort is around 20 kilometres from Tapovan. It is noted for its breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and is located at an elevation of 2,800 metres above sea level.

Badrinath: This well-known pilgrimage destination is roughly 56 kilometres from Tapovan. It is renowned for its ancient temple devoted to Lord Vishnu and is one of Hinduism’s four sacred sites.

stunning national park: The Valley of Flowers is a stunning national park that is 62 kilometres away from Tapovan. It is renowned for its gorgeous meadows and magnificent alpine flowers.

Hemkund Sahib: About 80 kilometres from Tapovan is the well-known Sikh pilgrimage destination known as Hemkund Sahib. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and is located at an elevation of 4,329 metres above sea level.

Nanda Devi National Park is a stunning national park that is 82 kilometres away from Tapovan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is well-known for its uncommon Himalayan animals and breathtaking alpine scenery.

These are a few of the neighbouring locations you can explore while staying in Tapovan, and each one of them is charming and beautiful in its own special way.

Stay option in Tapovan 

From inexpensive guesthouses to opulent resorts, Tapovan offers a variety of lodging choices. Here are a few of the prefered places to stay in Tapovan:

GMVN Tourist Rest House: Operated by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), this affordable choice provides simple rooms with attached bathrooms and a restaurant.

Himalayan Eco Lodge is a Tapovan-based eco-friendly lodging choice that provides cosy rooms with attached toilets and a restaurant that serves organic food.

The Tattva Resort is a luxurious resort in Tapovan that features lovely accommodations with breathtaking Himalayan mountain views, a spa, and a restaurant serving delectable Indian and international cuisine.

Tapovan Retreat: This stunning resort is situated in Tapovan and features lovely gardens, a restaurant, and cosy rooms with private bathrooms.

Panchvati Inn is a Tapovan guesthouse that is affordable and has basic rooms with attached bathrooms as well as a restaurant.

There are many other guesthouses and hotels in Tapovan in addition to these well-liked lodging choices. To assure availability, it is advised to reserve your lodging in advance, especially during the busiest travel season.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Tapovan in a table form:

QuestionAnswer
What is Tapovan?Tapovan is a sacred place located in Uttarakhand, India, known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty.
How do I reach Tapovan?Tapovan can be reached by air, train, or road. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, the nearest railway station is Rishikesh, and it is well connected by road from major cities in Uttarakhand and nearby states.
What is the best time to visit Tapovan?The best time to visit Tapovan is during the months of May to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and the temperature is moderate. However, it is advisable to check weather conditions before planning a trip as it can vary depending on the season.
What are the popular activities to do in Tapovan?Tapovan is known for its spiritual practices and is a popular destination for yoga and meditation. It is also a base camp for treks to Gaumukh, the source of the Ganges River, and other nearby Himalayan peaks. Adventure activities such as camping, trekking, and rafting are also popular in Tapovan.
Are there accommodations available in Tapovan?Yes, there are several accommodations available in Tapovan, ranging from guest houses to ashrams, and hotels that cater to different budgets. However, facilities may vary, and it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
What are the important things to carry while visiting Tapovan?Some important things to carry while visiting Tapovan include warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, trekking gear (if planning for a trek), a first aid kit and sufficient cash as ATMs may not be easily accessible in the area.
Are there any religious sites in Tapovan?Yes, Tapovan is considered a sacred place and is known for its ashrams and temples where visitors can participate in spiritual practices, meditation, and yoga. The place is also associated with Hindu mythology and is believed to be the abode of sages and yogis.
Is Tapovan safe for tourists?Tapovan is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take necessary precautions, such as following local customs and traditions, respecting the environment, and taking care of personal belongings. It is also recommended to check the weather conditions and local regulations before planning a visit.
Are there any medical facilities available in Tapovan?Tapovan has limited medical facilities, and it is advisable to carry basic medications and a first aid kit. The nearest medical facilities are located in Rishikesh and Uttarkashi, which are relatively accessible from Tapovan.
Can I engage in adventure activities in Tapovan?Yes, Tapovan offers opportunities for adventure activities such as trekking, camping, and rafting. However, it is advisable to take necessary precautions, follow guidelines, and seek professional help if engaging in adventure activities, especially if you are a novice or inexperienced.

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