Harsil
On the way to Gangotri, at a distance of 73 km Uttarkashi, this sleepy hamlet offers immaculate beauty of the Himalayas, at an impressive height of 2,620 mtrs. above the sea level.
Harsil's beauty is yet unexplored by the travellers. It is surrounded by the breathtaking splendour of the Himalayan peaks.
It's a trekker's paradise. There are numerous trekking routes around, offering bewitching beauties of nature.
This place is also known as a major apple growing zone. A Britisher, Mr. Wilson planted the first apple tree here in the 19th century. His cottage was till recently a major attraction in the area. A major fire destroyed the cottage, ending a part of the history.
The adventurous tourists have the choice to set off on various treks that introduces them to beautiful meadows, waterfalls and valleys.
Situated amidst the incredible beauty of mountain peaks, Harsil is counted amongst some of the most beautiful places in the Garhwal region.
Harsil has a cool climate throughout the year and gets snow bound between December to March.
It is a picturesque valley in the Himalayas at a height of 2620 mtrs above sea level, surrounded by mountain ranges extending high above 3660 mtrs to 4920 mtrs. There are Deodar trees in this Valley and this region gets lot of Sun light.
How to Reach
- Air : The nearest airport is Jolly Grant, 235 km away.
- Rail : The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, at a distance of 218 km.
- Road : Harsil is connected with the outside world through motorable roads, via Uttarkashi.
Where to Stay (STD Code 01377)
Private hotels in Dharali, 3 km away from Harsil
- Hotel Himgiri & Restaurant : Ph 232253/9410521508
- Hotel Shivalik : Ph 232254/9412363447
- Hotel Aanchal : Ph 232227/9411332587
- Hotel Amar Ganga : Ph 232235
- Hotel Snow Pinch : Ph 9412996955
- Hotel Pacific
- Hotel Springdales : Ph 232222
What to see
Harsil is a cantonment area. So it is restricted for the foreign tourist. Apart from being at the way to Gangotri, it's also the entry point the Kinnaur Himalayas in the Himachal Pradesh.
One can walk through the pristine valleys, tall trees, encircling lakes and go for long treks.
Beyond Harsil
Nachiketa Tal : Nachiketa, the son of sage Uddalak, created this lake. A tranquil spot, there is a small temple nearby.
Uttarkashi : An important religious centre. There are many temples in the city. It's equated with Kashi (Varanasi) in divinity. This is also an important pilgrimage centre on the way to Gangotri and Yamunotri.
Dodital : 123 km from the source of Asi Ganga. Surrounded by lakes and breathtaking Himalayan beauty.
Gangotri : 25 km away from Harsil, Gangotri is a revered destination for Hindus. Situated at an altitude of 3890 mtrs. It is the seat of Goddess Ganga. Every year from April to November thousand of devotees flocked at this sacred place.
Gaumukh : Being the source of river Ganga, Gaumukh glacier is a holy place for thousand Hindu followers. You can reach here by trekking 18 km from Gangotri.
Dharali : A picturesque place, situated 3 km away from Harsil on Harsil-Gangotri road. Village Mukhwa, winter abode of Goddess Ganga is only 0.5 km from here, where people worship the holy river when doors of Gangotri gets closed in winters. Foreign tourists generally stay at Dharali as Harsil is situated in inner line. Sattal a beautiful lake located at 2 km distance attracts many tourists through its charm. You can reach here on foot.
Brahmi tal (4000 mtrs) : You can reach Brahmi Tal via village Puroli covering 10 kms on foot from Jaspur band, which is on the way from Harsil to Uttarkashi at a distance of 5 km.
Dayara Bugyal : One can reach village of Raithal or Barsu situated at a distance of 10 km and 12 km respectively from Bhatwadi on a motrable road. From there it is a trek of 7 to 8 km from Raithal and 6 to 7 km from Barsu on foot and you will find yourself at Dayara Bugyal, a paradise for adventures. It has been developed as a winter destination and has turned into a favourite tourist spot because of the plenty of snowfall.
Kush kalyan : A thrilling experience for adventures one can reach here from village of Malla via village of Silla covering 15 km on foot.