Gaumukh & Tapovan vs Auli
Pick Gaumukh & Tapovan for
nature, adventure, a spiritual journey, a smaller budget
Pick Auli for
snow, family trips, first-timers, an easier walk, fewer days
| Gaumukh & Tapovan | Auli | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Uttarakhand, Gangotri, Uttarkashi | Uttarakhand, Joshimath, Chamoli |
| Highest point | 4,460 m | 3,050 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Easy |
| Trek distance | about 36 km | No trek needed |
| Days on the ground | 6–7 | 4–5 |
| Best months | May, Jun, Sep, Oct | Jan, Feb, Mar, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Moderate |
| Daily spend | about ₹2,800 | about ₹3,500 |
| Gateway | Dehradun | Dehradun / Rishikesh |
| With kids | Not advised | Great |
| With seniors | Not advised | Good |
| Permits | Gangotri National Park permit; daily entry cap — book in advance. | None. |
Gaumukh & Tapovan: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- ❄︎Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Auli: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely