Vasukital Trek

About Vasukital Trek

The Vasukital trek is a mesmerizing trek that takes trekkers to a sacred glacial lake at an approximate altitude of 4,880 meters (16,010 feet). The impressive backdrop of soaring Himalayan peaks, Mt. Shivling, Mt. Satopanth and Mt. Vasuki Parbat, creates a paradise for nature. Vasukital trek is saturated in spiritual energy and often linked to Hindu mythologies. According to tradition, it is believed that Lord Vishnu bathed in Vasukital during the festival of Raksha Bandhan. The serpent Vasuki, associated with Lord Shiva, is said to be reflected in the lake’s calm surface.

Vasukital Trek serves as a visual feast and supports a rich biodiversity. The surrounding area is home to rare and fascinating flora, including the rare Brahma kamal, which blooms at high altitudes; various wildlife species inhabit the region, notably the Bharal or Blue Mountain Goats, which can often be spotted navigating the rocky terrain. The untouched location and the quiet atmosphere of Kedartal make it a retreat for those desiring a connection with nature. The trek was graded moderately to challenging by Mountain Paradise, which was a trek through beautiful views of Gaumukh Glacier (the source of the Ganga River) and the alpine meadows of Tapovan and Nandanvan.

Quick Facts / Trek Snapshot

• Region: Gangotri Himalayas, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
• Duration: 7 Days
• Difficulty: Tough
• Max Altitude: ~4,150 m
• Best Season: May–June & Sep–Oct
• Starting Point: Gangotri
• Ending Point: Gangotri

Best Time to do Vasukital Trek.

The Vasukital trek is a high-altitude trekking adventure that demands detailed planning to ensure the best experience. Timing your Visit is crucial due to the region’s extreme weather, challenging terrain, and periods to avoid for a safe and enjoyable trek to Vasuki Tal.

Optimal Months for Vasuki Tal Trek

The best time to trek Vasukital is between May to June (summer) and September to October (autumn). These months offer ideal weather, clear skies and safe trails, perfect for exploring the fresh beauty of Vasukital, Gaumukh Glacier and the Gangotri National Park.

May to June (Summer)

• Why Visit between May and June: Summer brings pleasant weather, blooming Himalayan flora like the Brahma Kamal and dry trails navigating the Chaturangi Glacier and steep ascents easier.
• Highlights: Clear views of peaks and Tapovan meadows.
• The snowmelt reveals vibrant landscapes, ideal for photography and nature lovers.

Avoid Monsoon Season (July to August)

The monsoon season is not recommended for the Vasukital trek due to several risks that can compromise your safety and enjoyment.

• Heavy Rainfall: Intense rains make trails slippery, particularly around Gaumukh and the Gangotri glacier, increasing the risk of falls.
• Landslide Risks: Steep terrains and loose moraines are prone to landslides and rockfalls.
• Reduced Visibility: Cloud cover and fog obscure iconic views of Mt. Shivling, Chaukhamba, and Vasuki Tal, diminishing the trek’s appeal.
• Trail Closures: Heavy rain or snow may lead to temporary closures of routes in Gangotri National Park and permits may be restricted.

September to October (Winter)

• Why Visit between Winter: Post-monsoon months offer stable weather, lush greenery and crisp air enhancing the serenity of Vasuki Tal and its surroundings.
• Highlights: Crystal-clear skies provide unobstructed views of Chaukhamba and Kedar Dome. The cooler temperatures are perfect for seasoned trekkers.
• Best For: Those who prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds than summer.

Acclimatization Tips for Vasukital Trek.

The Vasukital trek, from Gangotri to the untouched lake via Gaumukh, Tapovan and Nandanvan, involves altitudes exceeding 4,000 meters, glacier crossings and unpredictable himalayan weather. People can face Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), hypothermia, falls and navigation challenges without proper precautions.

Best acclimatization practices help your body to adjust at lower oxygen levels, reducing the risk of altitude-related illnesses. Our 7-day trek itinerary is scheduled to allow the body to gain a gradual altitude.

• Stay Hydrated (3-4L water daily) to avoid AMS symptoms.
• Be vigilant for symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness etc. Report symptoms to your guide immediately; descending to a lower altitude is the most effective remedy for severe symptoms.
• We didn’t recommend taking Diamox or any other medicine for AMS prevention. It depends on the situation and the guidance of the Trek Leader and Guide.
• Do exercise, jogging, walking and yoga 1-2 months before you start the trek.

Safety Measures for Vasukital Trek.

Mountain Paradise India provides certified guides to navigate the whole trek trails, manage emergencies and your Gangotri National Park permit (Mandatory for the trek). Guides ensure safe navigation across moraines and glaciers while permits regulate environmental impact and safety.

Inclusions and Exclusions of Vasukital Trek.

Inclusions in our Vasukital Trek Package.

1. Comfortable Accomdation:
   • Twin or triple sharing room and clean, high-quality tent and sleeping bags with mattress, ensuring a restful start to end your trek.
2. Delicious and Nutritious Meals:
   • All meals during the trek are vegetarian and freshly prepared by our cook.
   • Included breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner, tea, coffee, and boiled drinking water.
   • Meals are provided as per the itinerary, Gangotri to Gangotri.
3. Permits and Camping Fees:
   • All necessary entrance fees, camping fees and trekking permits for Gangotri National Park (Vasukital Trek) are included in our package.

1. Expert Support Teams:

• Well experienced and certified trek guides and leaders to coordinate you on the trail.
• Cook and assistants for meal preparation at the campsite.
• Porters to carry rations and trekking equipements.
• Safety and Medical Support:

1. • A medical kit with an oxygen cylinder is needed for altitude-related concerns.

Exclusions in our Vasukital Trek package.

1. Personal Porter Charges.
   • Hiring a porter to carry personal luggage is available at an additional cost. This service is optional and can be arranged at the trekkers’ request.
2. Travel Insurance:
   • Personal travel insurance covering any high altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is not included.
   • Note – if you don’t have any travel insurance, you can contact our team, who will help you.
3. Medical Certificate:

• A medical certificate confirms that you are fit for this high-altitude trek, 
• Note – After confirming your trek booking, our team will send you a form for the medical certificate, and you will have to visit a clinic for the report.
• Transport Dehradun to Dehradun.