Gaumukh & Tapovan vs Bhimtal & Naukuchiatal
Pick Gaumukh & Tapovan for
nature, adventure, a spiritual journey
Pick Bhimtal & Naukuchiatal for
tight budgets, family trips, peace and quiet, an easier walk, fewer days
| Gaumukh & Tapovan | Bhimtal & Naukuchiatal | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Uttarakhand, Gangotri, Uttarkashi | Uttarakhand, Nainital, Kumaon |
| Highest point | 4,460 m | 1,400 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Easy |
| Trek distance | about 36 km | No trek needed |
| Days on the ground | 6–7 | 2–3 |
| Best months | May, Jun, Sep, Oct | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr | Rarely |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Moderate |
| Daily spend | about ₹2,800 | about ₹2,500 |
| Gateway | Dehradun | Kathgodam |
| With kids | Not advised | Great |
| With seniors | Not advised | Great |
| 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
Bhimtal & Naukuchiatal: when to go
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely