You’re in for a true experience if you’re organising the Har Ki Dun Trek. Nestled deep in the Garhwal Himalayas, this trek is one of the most scenic ones I’ve ever done. The valley is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, alpine meadows, and ancient villages that make you feel like time has slowed down. But before you lace up your trekking shoes, you’ll want to know exactly how to get there. In this guide, I’ll share the simplest way to reach Har Ki Dun, step by step, based on my own experience.
Step 1: Getting to Dehradun
Your journey begins at Dehradun, which is the closest major city. Luckily, Dehradun is well connected:
- By Air: The Jolly Grant Airport (DED) has daily flights from Delhi and other big cities. From the airport, you can easily find cabs into Dehradun city (about 25 km).
- By Train: The Dehradun Railway Station is connected to Delhi with overnight trains like Nanda Devi Express and Dehradun Express. I personally find the train option very convenient if you prefer reaching overnight.
- By Road: Regular buses (Volvo and state buses) run overnight from Delhi ISBT to Dehradun. It takes around 6–7 hours depending on traffic.
I usually prefer the overnight train because it gives me good rest, and I reach early morning in Dehradun, ready to start the drive to the base camp.
Step 2: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri
From Dehradun, the real mountain journey begins. The Har Ki Dun trek’s base hamlet, Sankri, is roughly 200 kilometres away. Depending on the road conditions and weather, the travel takes approximately eight to ten hours.
- The route passes through Mussoorie, Purola, Mori, and Netwar, offering beautiful views of rivers, pine forests, and mountain ridges.
- Shared cabs and buses do run, but they aren’t always reliable in timing. A private cab is the easiest and most comfortable option, especially if you’re traveling in a group.
- By the time you reach Sankri, you’ll already feel like you’re far away from city life.
I’d recommend keeping some snacks and water handy because food options on the way can be limited to small dhabas.
Step 3: Stay at Sankri
Once you reach Sankri, you’ll most likely spend the night here before starting the trek the next morning. Despite being a small community, Sankri offers simple homestays and guesthouses. Don’t expect luxury, but you’ll get cozy wooden rooms, hot meals, and the mountain charm.
I stayed in a simple homestay, and the host family made amazing rajma-chawal and rotis fresh from the stove—it’s just the kind of comfort food you want before heading into the mountains.
Also, Sankri is the last place where you’ll get mobile connectivity (BSNL works best) and basic supplies. So stock up here if needed.
Step 4: Trek from Sankri to Har Ki Dun Valley
The actual trek usually takes 6–7 days (round trip) depending on your itinerary. Here’s a quick outline:
- Sankri → Taluka (by jeep) → then trek to Seema/Osla (about 12 km).
- Seema/Osla → Har Ki Dun (11 km) – This stretch is absolutely stunning with forests, rivers, and open meadows.
- Stay overnight at Har Ki Dun campsite.
- Return by retracing the same route over the next 2–3 days.
The trek isn’t extremely tough, but you do need good stamina. Carry a sturdy pair of trekking shoes, warm layers, and rain protection.
Step 5: Going with a Trekking Company
Now, here’s the part I personally recommend: don’t attempt Har Ki Dun trek completely solo unless you’re very experienced. The trail passes through remote areas, and having an organized setup makes the journey smoother.
I went with The Searching Souls (TSS), and honestly, it made a huge difference. They arranged everything—transport from Dehradun, accommodation at Sankri, trek permits, food, tents, guides, and even medical support. It allowed me to fully enjoy the Har ki Dun Trek without stressing about logistics.
It didn’t feel like a commercial package; instead, it was more like traveling with a team that knows the valley inside out. The guides shared stories about the local villages and culture, which really added depth to the experience.
So if you’re planning this trek, I’d suggest booking through a reputed trekking company like them. It saves time, ensures safety, and lets you focus on the beauty of Har Ki Dun instead of worrying about planning every detail.
Final Thoughts
Reaching Har Ki Dun may sound like a long journey, but trust me, it’s worth every step. The transition from Dehradun’s busy roads to Sankri’s quiet wooden houses and then into the untouched Har Ki Dun Valley feels magical.
To sum up:
- Reach Dehradun by flight, train, or bus.
- Drive 8–10 hours to Sankri.
- Start the trek via Taluka, Osla, and finally Har Ki Dun.
- Go with an experienced trekking company for a hassle-free and safe experience.
If you plan well and keep a flexible mindset, this trek will reward you with some of the best Himalayan views you’ll ever see.
