Harkidun

Harkidun is best known for its colourful alpine meadows in the spring. It is also an ideal location to visit during the monsoon. As many of the villages in the area are permanent settlements, it also makes it a worthwhile undertaking practically year-round, while Forest Rest Houses along the way make it optional to carry a tent.

The villages in this area are occupied by the Kno Parwati, a fascinating hill tribe, and worthy of closer study. They are friendly people, and you will find that their dwellings drip with character and mountain charm.

The best approach is by vehicle from Mussoorie (if you want to catch public transportation into the area you must start at the bus stand in Dehra Dun). You will pass the towns of Yamuna Bridge and Miani. Twenty minutes before Barkhot, take the road heading northwest (left) across the Tons River (keeping right will lead you to Hanumanchatti, the trailhead for Yumnotri). This road will take you to Purola, and as far as Netwar, where a jeep track continues on to Sankri. The next segment is by walking to Taluka village, where basic accommodations can be found at the Forest Rest House. A further stage is to the village of Osla, where the trek to Harkidun begins.

The stage from Osla to Harkidun follows a clearly defined donkey trail, and can be completed in about half-a-days' walk. There is a newish Forest Rest House, where shelter can be found. It is an ideal place from which to launch explorations into the Jamudar Glacier area.