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Harsil Valley in the majestic Himalayas is one of those offbeat locations that many tourists go for a unique experience. It’s surrounded by picturesque landscapes, cascading waterfalls and a vibrant culture that’s native to this particular valley. With so many places to visit in Harsil Valley, having a well-planned itinerary is vital to making the most out of your trip. At every turn, you are embraced by the natural beauty and the warmth of the people that reside there. Harsil Valley is one of those places where you visit to find some peace and tranquillity, away from the crowds and chaos of the city.
10 Best Places To Visit In Harsil
Here are the best places to visit in Harsil, a hidden gem, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquillity and adventure:
1. Nelong Valley
Photo: Sanjeev travelgrapher / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nelong Valley is one of the least explored places near Harsil. It is located within the Gangotri National Park and is a spot that offers unobstructed views of the Tibetan Plateau and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. It hasn’t been long since this valley has been opened to tourists. So, while the opportunity is available, you need to make the most out of it and visit the Nelong Valley while you are in Harsil. The valley has historical ties with the old Indo-Tibetan trade route and remnants of that path exist in the valley. The beauty of this place will leave you spellbound.
Address: Gangotri National Park
Timings: Day visits only (overnight stay is not allowed)
2. Dharali Village
Photo: Hrishav Jha / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
A short distance from Harsil Valley lies the quaint village of Dharali. It is primarily located in Uttarkashi and is known for its breathtaking culture and beautiful sights. You can witness the beauty of the charming Bhagirathi river from this village, adding to its beauty. One of the most unique attributes of this village lies in their fruit orchards too. If you are an adventure enthusiast, take the time to explore the nearby trekking routes including the Sattal and Nachiketa trek, which wind through this village. There are a few accommodations available if you plan on staying overnight.
Address: 3 km from Harsil Valley
Timings: 24*7
3. Mukhwa Village
Photo: Hrishav Jha / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Visiting Mukhwa or Mukhba village is another one of the best things to do in Harsil. The village is also located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River and falls on the way to the Gangotri temple. One of the main significance of this village lies in the fact that the idol of Goddess Ganga from the Gangotri temple is brought to this village during the winter months. On the occasion of Diwali every year, the idol is brought from Gangotri temple with extensive celebration with Garhwal rifles and processions. It is a spectacle to witness.
Address: Mukhwa Village, Harsil, Uttarakhand
Timings: 24*7
4. Gangotri Temple
Photo: Dhwani Shree / Wikimedia Commons
Gangotri temple is one of the Char Dham. While you are in Harsil, you must plan a visit to this iconic and ancient temple as well. The temple is located around 25 km from Harsil and is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. It is one of the most significant Hindu temples that attracts devotees from across India. The temple marks the origin of the sacred river Ganga, which holds immense religious importance. As you step inside, the beauty of this temple stands out in the all-white granite architecture, offering a sense of peace and calmness. Also, the temple is surrounded by majestic mountains with picturesque views.
Address: Gangotri, Uttarakhand 249135
Timings: 4 AM – 2 PM and 3 PM – 9 PM
5. Harsil Village
Photo: Vijay Kumar Gaba / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Being small and remote, Harsil village is one that’s filled with hidden gems waiting to be explored. Among the list of tourist attractions in Harsil, exploring the village on foot is one of the most important activities. You can explore the local sites in the villages, interact with the locals and even get to stay in one of the remote homestays run by a local family. Harsil is famous for its apple orchards, and a visit during the apple season is a delightful experience. Also, for some peace, relax by the banks of the Bhagirathi River that flows adjacent to the village.
Address: Harsil, Uttarakhand
Timings: 24*7
6. Wilson Cottage
Photo: Mwanner / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Wilson’s Cottage or Wilson House is another one of the stunning Harsil tourist places. The cottage used to be the former residence of a British officer, Frederick E. Wilson. He fell in love with the village of Harsil and decided to settle down there. Today, Wilson Cottage stands as a remembrance of the British colonial rule in the country. You can stop to explore the cottage from the outside and admire the architecture of the same. The surrounding gardens and landscapes make it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection as well.
Address: Taknaur Valley Trek Start Point, Taknaur Renge, Uttarakhand 249135
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
7. Sattal
Photo: Mosharraf Hossain / Unsplash
Sattal features a group of seven freshwater lakes near Harsil.Sattal, which is located a few kilometres from Harsil, offers access to a variety of adventure activities. If you are someone who enjoys trekking, boating, bird watching, etc., one of the places for a Harsil trip is to plan a day trip from there. Sattal also features a group of seven freshwater lakes near Harsil, a great place for you to relax and unwind. Since there are so many freshwater lakes in Sattal, boating is the main attraction in this quaint town. You can also relax by the lakes to indulge in bird watching.
Address: Near Dharali, approximately 6 km from Harsil
Timings: 24*7
8. Dayara Bugyal
Photo: Mike Prince / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the Harsil tourist places list is Dayara Bugyal. It is considered one of the most picturesque trekking routes in the country. It is not an easy trek and requires you to be in your best physical health. Dayara Bugyal is one of the most beautiful meadows in Uttarakhand, located at an altitude of about 3,408 meters. The views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and Gangotri range, Bandarpoonch will truly enchant you. To make the most out of your trip, carry camping essentials with you for overnight camping, but do check for the weather conditions in advance.
Address: 28 km from Harsil
Timings: 24*7
9. Jhala Village
Photo: Devashish Gupta / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
To reconnect with nature and observe it thriving at its peak, visit Jhala village and the locality nearby. Beyond the beautiful landscapes, one of the main attractions of the Jhala village lies in its traditional wooden houses. You can visit the village to interact with the local villagers, get a glimpse into their way of life and try some of their authentic dishes too. Also, you can book your stay at one of the local homestays to truly embrace the culture of the people there. It lies along the route of Gangotri, so trekkers often take a halt here before proceeding.
Address: 7 km from Harsil
Timings: 24*7
10. Gartang Gali
Photo: Vvnataraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Built along the deep cliff in the Nelong Valley, Gartang Gali stands at an elevation of 11,000 feet and is about 136 meters long. It is a wooden skywalk and has been functional for a long time. Constructed by Peshwarai Pathans, it was used as a main trade route between India and Tibet and goods were transported using this route. It was banned from use for safety reasons for a great period until recently, it has been restored and opened for visitors. The breathtaking view that you get from here is something you will not trade with anything else.
Address: 19 km from Harsil
With so many places to visit in Harsil, having a comprehensive plan is quintessential. This is to ensure that you aren’t missing out on any of the best destinations. From exploring the nearby villages to embarking on challenging treks, there’s something to appease the travel experience of every tourist. To explore this underrated place, it is best that you plan it with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Hrishav Jha / Pexels
