Famous Villages of Har ki Dun
Villages of Har Ki Dun Valley, are situated inside Govind Pashu National Park in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The National Park is located in North-Eastern Uttarakhand bordering Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur on the northern side. The valley was made popular by the Doon school master Jack Gibson, who along with Edmund Hillary made several expeditions to the Banderpunch mountains from here.
Har Ki Dun literally translates to Valley of Gods. An alternate explanation for this divine association lies in a local folklore and reports of Nagara(A drum) being played by a Dhaki(a drummer) who had disappeared in the valley ages ago, to welcome Lord Someshwara (A form of Lord Shiva – ‘Har’ is widely associated with Lord Shiva). This provides for another connotation which would thus be Har Ki Dhun (The Sound of Shiva or the Sound of God; where Dhun is a word for a tone/sound)
Villages of Har ki Dun Valley-
In order to get a clearer idea of the lifestyle here it is important to mention that only two of the villages: Sankri/Saud and Taluka have motorable roads and electricity. Mobile connectivity is limited to Sankri only.
There are four more villages tucked inside the valley, namely Datmir, Gangad, Puani, and Osla. All of these places can be accessed by trekking only.
There are several streams in the trails which merge into the main river – Supin. During monsoon, though the path becomes tricky, the lush meadows, forests, and wildflowers are a sight to behold. In autumn, the bright-colored terraced fields of ‘Cholai’ look stunning. And in winter, the snow-covered landscape is straight out of a storybook. The entire valley is covered in snow from December to April.
Osla
The last village in the valley, Osla gives one the feel of truly being in a place forgotten by time. This Garhwali hamlet is perched high above the Supin River gushing through rapids.
To reach this village directly from the nearest motorable road link, one has to trek for about 14 km. Roads, electricity, and mobile connectivity are out of the question here.
A typical household here has cattle, a flock of sheep and mountain goats, and several farms. With the advent of summer every year, men leave the villages with their livestock. The shepherds trek far upstream to the highest meadows (often at about 4,200 m altitude) far from civilization.
In their own words, the shepherds travel far since the grass and herbs are of the highest quality here which even impart medicinal properties to the milk of the sheep and goats. The conditions here are extreme and they spend the entire summer and monsoon in these parts.
The terrace farms and gardens here are rich in organic produce ranging from vegetables such as cauliflower, pumpkin, potatoes and grains such as wheat, cholai (amaranth), mandwa (ragi) and phapda. Mint, kidney beans are a few of the other major products. The forests are full of edible fruits like seabuckthorn, wild strawberries, walnut, and apricot. Some local forest produce includes the kandali leaves (also known as ‘Bicchu ghaas’), some fern buds, and edible mushrooms which form a part of the traditional delicacies.
Farms here are mostly tended to by women. Autumn is one harvesting season when everyone is seen working hard day and night. All the racks are stored up with supplies before the first snowfall. Winters are spent in leisure.
A good part of the income here comes from trekking and mountaineering. Men work as porters or use up their mules and horses. The latter also help in bringing supplies for the village. Many work as mountain guides, helpers and cooks.
Osla has been associated with local legends of the epic Mahabharata. It is said that Pandavas attempted their to heaven via the Swargarohini peak which lies right in front of Har Ki Dun, but only one actually made it to Heaven (or Swarg). In the center of the village, there lies a temple dedicated to Someshwara, which is a form of Lord Shiva. Several festivals are celebrated throughout the year, chief among them being in early August.
The festival in August is witnessed by devotees and relatives of the locals who stay in far off villages. Some arrive from as far as Gangotri valley for the same. Many treks including Har Ki Dun for several days through high mountain passes to reach here.
This is a season, which sees very few trekkers owing to the monsoons. The festival lasts for about four days and witnesses hours of rituals and traditional Garhwali dance.
Some online sources claim that the temple is dedicated to Duryodhan, but the locals disagree to that. In another festival in late August, some villagers even enact the roles of the Pandavas in a kind of play.
All the buildings are wooden with some intricate carvings in some. The houses insulate well against the sub-zero winter climate. Most of them are two-storied structures with a room and outer area for livestock on the ground floor. The kitchen also serves as a dining area and a place for everyone to gather beside the wood-fired stove and chat.
Stay at Osla can be included as a part of a trek to:
Har ki Dun
Ruinsara lake
Maldaru Tal
Bali Pass
Borasu Pass
In conclusion, the journey through the famous villages of Har ki Dun, Uttarakhand, is a captivating experience that transports travelers to a world untouched by modernity. As you traverse through Osla’s ancient charm, Gangad’s spiritual allure, and Seema’s picturesque landscapes, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where time seems to slow down.
Uttarakhand Treks | treks in Uttarakhand | Treks from Dehradun | trekking in Dehradun | Trekking companies in Dehradun | Har Ki Dun trek | Bali Pass trek | Phulara Ridge Trek | Kedarkantha Trek| Winter Kedarkantha Trek |Kedarkantha Trek in January | Winter Dayara Bugyal| Dayara Bugyal trek | Gaumukh Tapovan trek | Kashmir Great Lakes trek | Valley of Flowers trek | Nag Tibba Trek | Kuari Pass trek | CHOPTA CHANDRASHILA TREK
Related Blogs
August 30, 2024
Why Himalaya Shelter is one of the Best Trekking Companies in India- Trekker's Perspective
Read more
September 10, 2024
Things Beginners Should Know to Avoid Hiking Mistakes on a Himalayan Trek
Read more
August 16, 2024
Day 6 of Bali Pass: A Chilling Ascent, Summit Triumph, and a Snowy Descent
Read more
August 16, 2024
My first ever Himalayan trek: Day 0 of the Bali Pass, arriving in Dehradun
Read more
July 22, 2024
The Top 5, 8000-meter Peaks: This is every climber’s dream if ever one is dreamed, and I hope it is still dreamable.
Read more
July 22, 2024
The Tale of Legendary Mountaineers: An insight into the lives of Iconic Climbers Edmund Hillary, Tenzing Norgay, Reinhold Messener, Rob Hall, Scott Fischer, and Jon Krakauer.
Read more
May 10, 2024
Butter Festival Bliss, Anduri Utsav: Trekking Through Tradition On Dayara Bugyal
Read more
March 28, 2024
Things to do near/at Sankri
A complete guide about the beautiful Himalayan village named Sankri. This article contains all the details that you need to know about Sankri. The best treks from Sankri, The best accommodation in...
Read more
March 20, 2024
Customize your Trek with Himalaya Shelter
A comprehensive guide for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts curious about the structure of a customized trekking program. This article outlines all the facilities provided within our customized trekking programs.
Read more
March 14, 2024
Top 30 Best Places to Visit and best treks to do in Mussoorie:
A complete guide about the best places to visit near Mussoorie, the famous picnic destinations in Mussoorie, best trekking places near Mussoorie
Read more
March 11, 2024
Best Treks to do & Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
A complete guide about the best places to visit near Dehradun, the famous picnic destinations in Dehradun, best trekking places near Dehradun
Read more
February 2, 2024
National Parks of Uttarakhand-A Journey through Uttrakhand's Spectacular National Parks
A complete guide to the most popular and famous National parks of Uttrakhand, India along with the trekking destinations associated with them.
Read more
September 28, 2023
8 Essential Safety Tips for Trekking in the Himalayan Mountains for a Safe Journey
Trekking in the Himalayas offers a unique experience, combining imposing peaks, serene valleys, and diverse cultures. Preparation and safety are crucial.
Read more
September 25, 2023
14 Best Destinations for Spiritual Trekking in India Himalayas
Explore the divine heights of the Indian Himalayas with our guide to the 14 Best Destinations for Spiritual Trekking.
Read more
September 22, 2023
Solo Trekking vs Group Trekking in the Himalayas: Which is Best?
Explore the pros and cons of solo and group trekking in the majestic Himalayas to find out which suits your trekking style best.
Read more
September 22, 2023
13 Best Himalayan Treks To Do in October, November, and December in India
Discover stunning treks to do in Himalaya in October, November, and December in India.
Read more
September 18, 2023
Himalayan Trekking Permits: A Complete Guide for Adventurers
Explore our comprehensive guide to Himalayan Trekking Permits, designed for adventurers like you.
Read more
September 18, 2023
Top 15 Trekking Places in Kashmir: From Lakes to Peaks
Discover the top trekking places in Kashmir featuring stunning lakes and towering peaks.
Read more
August 23, 2023
Hiking Essentials for Beginners in the Himalayas: Need to Know
Prepare well for beginner Himalayan treks: essentials, best routes, high altitudes, fees, and cultural immersion for a secure adventure.
Read more
August 18, 2023
Understanding Acute Mountain Sickness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Discover the causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and effective treatments for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Read more
August 16, 2023
10 Stunning Treks Near Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Explore Himachal's stunning landscapes with thrilling Manali treks. Experience extraordinary walks amidst magnificent mountains and serene roads.
Read more
August 14, 2023
9 Best Short Treks in Uttarakhand for 1, 2, or 3 Days for a Weekend Escape
Explore Uttarakhand's stunning weekend getaways with short treks, immersing yourself in nature's beauty and adventure on these breathtaking trails.
Read more
August 9, 2023
10 Toughest and Most Difficult Treks in India to Push Your Boundaries
Discover the toughest and most difficult treks in India and test your endurance in the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas.
Read more
August 2, 2023
Essential Camp Hygiene for Health and Safety
Maintaining camp hygiene and sanitation safeguards health, environment, and water sources, ensuring an enjoyable, compliant, and safe camping experience.
Read more
July 25, 2023
11 Best Places to Visit in Sonamarg, Things to Do & Attractions
Sonamarg, in India, captivates with its stunning landscapes. Nestled in Kashmir, it's a serene haven for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Read more
July 24, 2023
Nanda Devi National Park, Uttarakhand - How To Reach, Best Time to Visit
Nanda Devi National Park, in Uttarakhand, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes.
Read more
July 19, 2023
15 Best Himalayan Treks for Beginners in India in 2024
Discover beginner-friendly treks in India's Himalayas. Experience breathtaking mountain beauty, push limits, and connect with nature in stunning landscapes.
Read more
July 18, 2023
Top 15 Highest Mountain Peaks of Uttarakhand
The state of Uttarakhand boasts of two of the top three mountains in India. Read the blog to find out about the famous peaks of Uttarakhand...
Read more
September 10, 2021
Why Is Hydration Important during Himalayan Treks?
Garhwal Himalaya offers thrilling treks. Hydration is crucial, and it's essential to drink water regularly, even in colder temperatures.
Read more
February 28, 2023
Why is Har Ki Dun Valley a Popular Trekking Destination in Uttarakhand?
Har Ki Dun: Popular Trek in Uttarakhand with Breathtaking Views of Himalayan Peaks, Meadows, and Rivers.
Read more
February 1, 2024
Why Bali Pass Should Be Your Next Trek?
Why Bali Pass Trek should be your very next trek? The complete guide. This artiucle has answer of almost all your questions.
Read more