The trek from Har Ki Dun to Ruinsara Lake offers stunning Himalayan views and pristine alpine landscapes. It’s a multi-day journey through dense forests and picturesque villages, best undertaken during summer or post-monsoon seasons. The trek is moderately challenging, requiring good physical fitness. Highlights include the lush Har Ki Dun Valley and the serene Ruinsara Lake.
Har Ki Dun And Ruinsara Tal
Trek Details
Duration
9 Days / 8 Nights
Max Altitude
3600 m
Trek Length
55 KM
Difficulty
ModerateBest Season
May to June and Sep to Oct
Start Point
Sankri
End Point
Sankri
Nearest Railway
Dehradun
Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant
Overview
Your Adventure at a Glance
About the Trek
Mythology, Best Time & More More
Significance
Mythology and Cultural
Har Ki Dun and Ruinsara Lake hold great significance in mythology and culture. According to Hindu mythology, Har Ki Dun is believed to be the place where the Pandavas from the Mahabharata ascended to heaven. It's considered a sacred spot and attracts pilgrims and trekkers alike. Ruinsara Lake, on the other hand, is considered sacred by the locals and is believed to be the abode of Lord Balim. These places are not only beautiful but also deeply rooted in the rich mythology and cultural heritage of the region.
Month
Best Time
The best time to undertake the trek from Har Ki Dun to Ruinsara Lake is during the summer months (May to June) and the post-monsoon season (September to October).
Day-by-Day Plan
Trek Itinerary
Day 1
Embarking on the Journey from Dehradun to Sankri
Starting Point: Depart from Dehradun and head towards Sankri, driving through the picturesque Yamuna and Tons valleys. Enjoy the scenic landscapes that Uttarakhand has to offer along the way.
Arrival at Sankri: Reach Sankri by evening, a charming village that serves as the starting point for various treks in the region. Spend the night here, getting ready for the upcoming trekking adventure.
Day 2
Trekking from Sankri to Osla
Commencement of the Trek: Begin your trek from Sankri to Osla, trekking through lush forests and alongside the tranquil Supin River. Witness the changing scenery and keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail.
Camp at Osla: Osla is a traditional Himalayan village renowned for its cultural heritage and ancient customs. Spend the night here, immersing yourself in the warm hospitality of the local community.
Day 3
Journey from Osla to Har ki Dun
Exploring the Valley of Gods: Continue your trek from Osla to Har ki Dun, a valley shaped like a cradle and surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks and dense pine forests. Marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of Har ki Dun, often referred to as the "Valley of Gods."
Exploration of Har ki Dun: Spend the afternoon exploring the valley, taking in its rich biodiversity and natural wonders. Set up camp amidst the serene surroundings and gaze at the starry night sky.
Day 4
Trekking to Jaundhar Glacier and Back
Adventure to the Glacier: Embark on a day trek from Har ki Dun to the Jaundhar Glacier. This part of the trek offers more challenges but rewards you with breathtaking views of the glacier and the surrounding peaks.
Return to Har ki Dun: After exploring the glacier, trek back to your campsite in Har ki Dun, where you can unwind and soak in the tranquility of the valley.
Day 5
Heading towards Rainbasera
Trekking to Rainbasera: Leave Har ki Dun behind and trek towards Rainbasera, a scenic spot offering shelter to trekkers. Enjoy panoramic views of the Swargarohini peaks along the trail.
Night at Rainbasera: Spend the night at Rainbasera, savoring the peaceful ambiance and marveling at the beauty of the Himalayan landscape under the starlit sky.
Day 6
Continuing the Journey to Ruinsara
Trekking to Ruinsara: Resume your trek from Rainbasera to Ruinsara, a serene high-altitude lake surrounded by lush meadows and towering peaks. Experience the tranquility of Ruinsara Lake and its picturesque surroundings.
Camping at Ruinsara: Set up camp near the lake, allowing yourself to fully appreciate the natural beauty and serenity of the area.
Day 7
Exploration of the Valley
Immersing in Nature: Spend the day exploring the Ruinsara valley and its environs. Take leisurely walks, soak in the lush landscapes, and relish the peaceful atmosphere of the area.
Relaxation: Enjoy another night camping by Ruinsara Lake, indulging in relaxation and connecting with nature.
Day 8
Trekking back to Seema
Return Journey through the Forests: Begin your return trek from Ruinsara to Seema, traversing through dense forests and experiencing a different facet of the Himalayan landscape.
Night at Seema: Reach Seema, a quaint hamlet with guesthouses and camping facilities. Spend the night here, savoring the tranquility of the mountains.
Day 9
Journey from Seema to Sankri and Dehradun
Returning to Civilization: Trek back from Seema to Sankri, marking the end of your trekking adventure filled with unforgettable memories of nature's grandeur.
Drive to Dehradun: From Sankri, embark on the drive back to Dehradun, reminiscing about the incredible landscapes and experiences encountered during your exploration of the Garhwal Himalayas.
What's Covered
Inclusions & Exclusions
INCLUSION
- Accommodation: Stay in tents/guesthouses on twin/triple sharing; base in guesthouse.
- Meals: Simple, nutritious vegetarian meals provided.
- Day-wise Meals: Meal plan varies by day.
- Day 1: Dinner + breakfast next morning.
- Trek Days: Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner included.
- Final Day: Dinner + breakfast before departure.
- Non-veg meals are not served.
- Trek Equipment: Sleeping bags, tents, kitchen setup, mattresses, crampons (if needed).
- Transportation: Included if opted during booking.
- First Aid: Basic medical kits available.
- Permits: Forest entry fees and permits included.
- Guides: Led by trained and experienced trek leaders.
EXCLUSION
- All kinds of personal expenditures are excluded.
- Anything that we have not mentioned above.
- The trek cost is not inclusive of meals bought during the journey on 1st day and last day.
- Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
Getting There
How To Reach
Location
Trek Route Map
Booking Policy
Cancellation Policy
| Policy | Upto 30 days | 29–21 days | 21–15 days | 14–0 days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Batch Shifting | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Refund | 100% | 50% | 0% | 0% |
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. No-shows and last-minute cancellations are non-refundable. In case of bad weather or force majeure, the company reserves the right to modify or cancel the itinerary.
Preparation
What To Pack
Clothing & Footwear
- High-ankle waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
- Thermal base layer — top & bottom (2 sets)
- Down jacket (600+ fill power)
- Windproof & waterproof shell jacket
- Trekking pants (quick-dry, 2–3 pairs)
- Woolen gloves + waterproof outer gloves
- Warm balaclava & beanie hat
- Woolen socks (4+ pairs)
- Gaiters for snow and scree
Gear & Essentials
- 35–45L daypack with rain cover
- Trekking poles (collapsible, 2 poles)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ & lip balm with SPF
- UV-protection polarised sunglasses
- Personal first aid & altitude medication (Diamox)
- Water bottles (2L) or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets
- Valid government photo ID (mandatory for permits)
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Har ki Dun To Ruinsara trek difficult ?
The trek from Har Ki Dun to Ruinsara Lake is moderately, suitable for trekkers with a moderate level of fitness and trekking experience.
How many days in Har ki Dun To Ruinsara Trek ?
It is a 9 Days and 8 Nights Trek starting from Sankri to Sankri.
How long is Har ki Dun To Ruinsara Trek ?
The trek from Har Ki Dun to Ruinsara Lake is approximately 55 kilometers in length, depending on the specific route taken and any side excursions along the way.
Why is Har ki Dun To Ruinsara Trek famous ?
The trek from Har Ki Dun to Ruinsara Lake is famous for its stunning Himalayan views, pristine alpine landscapes, cultural immersion, and moderate trekking difficulty.
What if we want to leave extra luggage at the base village?
You can keep extra luggage in the base village for any particular trek. There are no cloak roo charges applicable. Its free of cost.
Is there mobile signals available on treks?
If you are going on a trek don’t expect mobile signals. There are few spots on the trails of few treks where you might find a single tower or something but it always depends if that is enough to make a call or not.
How do you manage toilets?
We use portable toilet tents for sanitation needs, as permanent structures may not available. These are dry toilets, so please bring wet wipes or tissue paper for personal hygiene.
Do I need to carry trek equipment?
For this trek you just need a day bag to carry during the trek, extra luggage can be left behind at the camp site. Proper bedded swiss tents are available on this trek.
Can we consume Alcohol during the trek?
It’s a strict no. If you fall sick during the trek due to alcohol consumption H2H has the right to cancel your trek and send you back to base village. No expenses shall be refunded in that case and you will have to pay additional for stay at base village.
How do I prepare for the trek?
Start running/walking at least 3-4 Kms everyday.
What kind of shoes will I need? Does a sport shoe work?
If it’s a snow trek a good trekking shoe is mandatory. If you buy a new shoe do walk for few days so that it fits you well and doesn’t leave you with blisters while you trek. If it is a summer trek or post monsoon trek a shoe with good grip and ankle support will do.