Mukta Top Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy
TREK DURATION
6 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
12,000 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
27 Km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
January to June and November to December
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun (Prince Chowk)
Mukta Top Trek Overview
Mukta top (3608m) is one of the lesser known offbeat trekking destinations in Uttarakhand that are comparable with other popular winter snow trek routes like Kedarkantha, Dayara Bugyal, Chandrashila, and Brahmatal. It is located to the west of Dayara Bugiyal between Yamunotri & Gangotri regions as a part of the Barahat range of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarkashi district. Although it can be visited year round but during the winter months of December, January and February the fecund grassy pasture uplands gets covered with layers of snow turning the whole valley into a mesmerizing and picturesque location. During winter the day time temperatures are around -5/6°C while night time temperatures can plummet to -12°C. So you need to be prepared with adequate clothing and gears. During summer the day time temperatures are around 8/13°C while night time temperatures are around 2/12°C. The total trekking distance is around 24km that takes you through deep forest canopies of Deodar, Rhododendrons, Maples, Oak and Pines trees. A unique feature in this trail is the presence bamboo forests. The trek is popular for presence of a wide variety of birds like Himalayan Monal (the state bird of Uttarakhand), Russet Sparrows, Blue Whistling Thrushes, Himalayan Bulbuls, and Lemon Rumped Warblers are the ones whose constant chirping will accompany you all along the forest trail. Among the fauna the Mountain Goats, Spotted Barking Deer, Black Bears, Barasingha (Swamp Deer) and Leopards can be spotted at various places. The highest point in the trail, Mukta Top offers an enchanting 360° view of the horizon littered with gigantic snow clad peaks that include - Mt Jaonli (6632 m), Gangotri III Peak (6577 m), Mt Srikanta (6,133 m), Bhagirathi massif (6,856 m), Mt Kalanag/ Black Peak (6387 m), Bandarpunch 1 (6316 m), Bandarpunch 2/ White Peak (6102 m), Draupadi Ka Danda 1 (5716 m), Draupadi Ka Danda 2 (5670 m), and Nag Tibba top (3022 m).
History Of Mukta Top Trek
Mukta Top located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand is counted as a sacred site and serene tourist destination. Due to its proximity to Yamunotri and Dodital, the Mukta Top region also has a blissful aura which is able to make you break free from worldly affairs and take a deep breath of peace and joy. The name 'Mukta' itself means or suggests to be free or liberated which certainly define the solitary beauty of this place that offers true liberation to your soul.
As per mythology, Mukta Top is associated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Local people believe that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati have travelled through this region to high Himalayan meadows. Many sages and saints are believed to meditate in region for seeking solitude and divine grace.
The Mukta Top region is believed to influenced by the rise of Garhwal Kingdom. However, they haven't directly rule this region but maintained control over the upper Himalayan routes and meadows. Mukta Top region was used for animal grazing and as a resting point rather than a part of prominent trade or military route.
Under the British colonial system, the British started mapping the Himalayan region in detail but somehow areas like Mukta Top still remained unexplored. The British invested in the regions like Mussoorie and Dehradun for their summer retreat and military needs but due to high-altitude and difficult terrain, the regions like Mukta Top were not their focus.
After independence in 1947, with the expansion of trekking routes in Uttarakhand, Mukta Top became more accessible. It gained popularity among trekkers for its panoramic view of Himalayan peaks like Bandarpoonch and Draupadi Ka Danda. Today, a good number of trekkers visit this place to experience its raw beauty, solitude and cultural mystique.
Diverse Forest Ecosystems: Trek passes through the dense forests of oak, maple, pine, rhododendron and rare bamboo which give you an enriched and the real 'Jangal' vibes. The forests are not only visually engaging but the melodies of Himalayan birds like Himalayan Monal, Blue Whistling Thrushes, Russet Sparrows, Himalayan Bulbuls and Lemon Rumped Warblers keep you pulsing throughout the journey.
Panoramic Himalayan Vistas: Trekking in Mukta Top can be longer but the reward you get upon reaching the summit at around 3,608 m is sweepingly awesome- a 360-degree views of prominent Himalayan peaks like Bandarpoonch, Gangotri, Jaonli, Black Peak (Kalanag) and Draupadi Ka Danda. With golden showers of sunrise and sunset, it gets even more fascinating.
Alpine Meadows and Campsites: After the forested trails, when the path opens up to serene alpine meadows, it seems like a gateway of treasure after a mysterious path. In spring and summer, these meadows looks more colourful and vibrant with blooming rhododendrons, primulas, blue poppies and wild daisies. All these scenarios make campsites soulful and worth visiting.
Offbeat and Tranquil Trail: Mukta Top is still untouched and has more to explore. Due to its old and hidden charm, it's aroused as an offbeat trekking destination away from mainstream tourism. For the people who look for solitude and deeper connection with nature, this place is a must visit. Traditional villages like Kuflon, Agoda and Bharsa add a rustic charm to this place's beauty.
Suitable for Beginners: Mukta Top is ideal for beginners who are looking for an enriching high-altitude trekking journey. With an easy to moderate difficulty level and well-defined trails, it is accessible to people with no prior trekking experience. However, the fitness level should be optimum. Excellent choice for the trekkers who are new to high-altitude trekking.
Mukta Top, located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, reaches an elevation of around 3,602 m (11,817 ft). It is considered easy to moderate trek, ideal for beginners who wants to push their limits a bit further. Though the trek is not very challenging, it demands a good fitness level due to steady ascent and altitude gain.
Trekking in Mukta Top typically takes 5 to 6 days to complete. One can expect to walk 4-6 hours on average on trekking days.
The trail passes through dense forests of oak, pine, maple and rhododendron and open into high-altitude alpine meadows. You can find snow patches here and there, specially in winter. The final climb to top demands steep ascent but doesn’t require any particular climbing skills.
Though the trek is beginner-friendly, it's not suitable for kids (under 10) and elderly family members. Families with teenagers or active members can consider to do this trek with essential preparation. The main challenges involve maintaining stamina and acclimatising body.
Trekkers can do it solo but it's recommended to take a guide or joining a group for safety and navigation.
Mukta Top trek is considered a all-season trek. It can be done all year but still one should avoid trekking here in harsh winter and monsoon. The trek can be best done from April to June and September to November.
April to June: April marks the beginning of summer season and spring is already going on. This time path can be slushy due to melting snow but weather is perfectly clear. Alpine meadow are covered with fresh greenery and blooming colorful flowers. The Sun is at it brightest and showers golden sunlight on mountain peaks.
• Daytime Temperature: 8°C to 18°C
• Nighttime Temperature: 5°C to 0°C
September to November: During this time the landscape is imbued in golden colour due to autumn. Sky is clearer, peaks are visible and meadows are greener after the monsoon. The weather is mild except early November; in November it gets colder. Temperature is almost similar to April-June.
• Daytime Temperature: 7°C to 17°C
• Nighttime Temperature: 5°C to below O°C
Note: Avoid July to August due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails.
• To reach Mukta Top, start your journey from Dehradun (Uttarakhand). Dehradun is well connected via air, rail and road with major cities of India.
• From Dehradun, drive to Kuflon, a village near Uttarkashi. The drive may take around 8-9 hrs (180 km). Kuflon serves as a basecamp for Mukta Top trekking
• Start your trek from Kuflon which takes you through the dense forests of oak, pine and rhododendron to reach Kuflon Khal, beautiful campsite.
• Head to Mukta Tal, a beautiful alpine lake. The path continues passing through forests and opens up to alpine meadows. Mukta Tal is perfect campsite for taking rest and stargazing.
• Ascend to Mukta Top (3,600 m), the highest point of the trek. The summit offers panoramic views of peaks like Gangotri I, II, III and Jaonli.
• After spending a good time, you may descend to Shiladuni campsite.
Mukta Top Trek Route (as per Himalaya Shelter Itinerary)
Day 1: Dehradun to Maneri
Drive: Approx 170 km (7–8 hrs) via NH-34 along the Bhagirathi River
Stay: Overnight at Maneri (3,800 ft).
Day 2: Maneri to Kuflon, then Trek to Shiladuni.
Drive: 15 km to Kuflon (1,500 m/5,000 ft).
Trek: 4 km (3–4 hrs) through pine, rhododendron, oak and maple forests to Shiladuni (2,100 m/6,800 ft).
Stay: Campsite near a shepherd’s hut
Day 3: Shiladuni to Chaithathar
Trek: 5 km (4–5 hrs) through bamboo forests and streams to Chaithathar (3,000 m/9,900 ft).
Stay: Campsite with views of high Himalayan peaks.
Day 4: Chaithathar to Mukta Tal
Trek: 4 km (4 hrs) ascending through alpine meadows to Mukta Tal (3,300 m/10,800 ft).
Stay: Campsite near the tranquil alpine lake.
Day 5: Mukta Tal to Mukta Top, then Descend to Kuari Camp.
Trek: 2 km (2–3 hrs) steep ascent to Mukta Top (3,600 m/11,800 ft) offering 360° views of peaks like Gangotri I, II, III, Jaonli, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag and Nag Tibba.
Descent: 6 km (5–6 hrs) to Kuari Camp (2,390 m/7,900 ft).
Stay: Campsite amidst serene forests.
Day 6: Kuari Camp to Kuflon, then Drive to Dehradun
Trek: 6 km (3–4 hrs) descending through oak and rhododendron forests to Kuflon.
Drive: Approx 155 km (7–8 hrs) back to Dehradun.
This 6-day trek lies approx 28 km of trekking through diverse terrains and offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Maneri
Drive: 170 km, 7 hrs
Altitude: 2,100 ft – 3,800 ft
Accommodation: Hotel / Guest House
Meals: Dinner
The Mukta Top trek starts from the Kuflon village. To reach the Kuflon village, take a vehicle from Dehradun and follow the beautiful NH-34 road all along Bhagirathi River towards Gangotri Dham. On reaching Uttarkashi, follow the road that goes towards Gangori.
Going a few kilometers beyond Gangori you can find the Kuflon village that is situated besides the Asi Ganga River, a tributary of Bhagirathi on Sangamchatti Road. The total distance is around 155-160 km and the time it takes to reach Kuflon is around 8 hours. We stop 15 km short of Kuflon for the night at Maneri
Day 2: Drive to Kuflon and trek to Shiladuni
Drive: 15 km, 45 min
Trek: 4 km, 3-4 hrs
Altitude: 3,800 ft – 6,782 ft
Accommodation: Alpine Tents
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
Today you will need to cross a market and progress following the trail. You will need to cross a stream and soon the trail leads to a thick dense forest rich with pine, rhododendron, oak, and maple trees. After walking for almost 4 hours and around 4 km you will find a forest clearing at Shiladuni. Here the idyllic campsite is located near a Shepherd’s hut in an open, clear area which is ideal for star-gazing. The chirping of birds is quite soothing. You can camp here for the night.
Day 3: Shiladuni to Chaithathar
Trek: 5 km, 5-6 hrs
Altitude: 6,782 ft – 9,600 ft
Accommodation: Alpine Tents
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
The next day start early and follow the steep trail that leads you through a unique dense Bamboo forest. You will need to cross few streams and after walking for around 4-5 hours for about 5 kms you will reach another small clearing Chaithathar that provides stunning views of high Himalayan peaks. This is the campsite where you need to stay and rest for the night.
Day 4: Chaithathar to Mukta Tal
Trek: 4 km, 3-4 hrs
Altitude: 9,600 ft – 10,800 ft
Accommodation: Alpine Tents
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
Today the trail leaves the dense forest and follows through rocky terrain that gradually gives way to high altitude flat land. The next campsite is Mukta Tal where you will find a alpine lake. During the winter months these places are covered with thick snow that gives it a mesmerizing view. You will be rewarded with the views of Bandarpoonch, Kalanag and Nag Tibba peaks.
Day 5: Mukta Tal to Mukta Top to Kuari
Trek: 9 km, 6-7 hrs
Altitude: 10,800 ft – 11,838ft – 7,781 ft
Accommodation: Alpine Tents
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
Finally today crossing Siyari Tal, walking for about 6 hours and a distance of about 9 kms you will reach the pinnacle point for this trek which is Mukta top. The grandeur of mighty Himalayan peaks await you in the distant horizon. A 360° view provide you with sneak peak views of Gangotri massif, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, Nag Tibba, and Jaonli. After enjoying the views from Mukta top to return, follow the downward trail that takes you to Kuari.
Day 6: Kuari to Kuflon And Drive to Dehradun
Trek: 6 km, 3-4 hrs
Drive: 170 km, 7 hrs
Altitude: 7,781 ft – 2,100 ft
Meals: Breakfast
Finally the trek ends as you come down from Kuari to Kuflon which takes about 4 hours and crossing a distance of around 6kms. From Kuari you can take a car to come back to Dehradun or go to the destination of your choice.
Inclusion
- Transport support from Dehradun to Dehradun
- Pick-up location: Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station
Pick-up Time: Around 7:30 am - All vegetarian meals starting from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day
- Professional Guide, Cook and Support staff
- First-Aid kit with Oximeter and Portable Oxygen Cylinder
- Kitchen tents, common tents, toilet tents with portable toilet seats
- Rent for camping equipment like Clean sleeping bags and foam mattresses, Good quality ‘A’ shaped or dome tents, Camping stools, Table and Crampons and gaiters if required
- Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Porter and mule support to carry camping equipment and NOT personal luggage
- Accommodation throughout the trek on a triple-sharing basis
- Guesthouse accommodation on the first and second last day on a triple-sharing basis
- All applicable taxes
Exclusions
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Any transport support during the trek apart from what is included above
- Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions
- Accommodation in Dehradun
- Adventure Insurance
- Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, roadblocks etc
- Porter and mule support to carry personal Luggage can be arranged at an additional cost of INR 350 per bag per day (weighing up to 12 kg)
- Please carry a lunch box for packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythenes and Aluminium foils. Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
Mukta Top is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India.
Mukta Top sits at around 11,800 ft (3,597 m) above sea level.
It is considered an easy to moderate trek, suitable for beginners.
The trek usually takes 6 days (including travel to and from base camp).
Yes, Mukta Top is also a great winter trek with snow-covered trails.
Yes, but it’s advised to go with a guide or group for safety and navigation.
Yes, it's beginner-friendly with basic fitness.
No, it is primarily a scenic and adventure destination, not a religious one.
Yes, it’s less crowded, scenic and offers an authentic and peaceful Himalayan experience.
Read More on Mukta Top Trek
Photo Gallery
Treks by Categories
Treks By Month
Treks By Region
Treks By Experience
