Gaumukh Tapovan Trek - Day 02

CONTINUED FROM HERE: Gaumukh Tapovan Trek - Day 01

Date: 07-Oct-2024

Day 02: Chirbasa (3600m/11800ft) To Bhojwasa (3830m/12565 ft) 

Distance/Time: 6km (2.5H)

The Bhagirathi Massif

I woke up at dawn and headed to the riverside. It was still dark but the snow on Bhagirathi Massif was visible. I stayed there for some time making time-lapse videos before heading back to the campsite. 

I freshened up and got ready. We had breakfast (Upma and Wheat Dosa) and were ready to leave. Generally, the porters pack and leave first so that they can reach the next campsite and set up tents before we reach. So, we had to wait. Some of us headed back to the river and relaxed there until we were called. From our campsite, we could see Manda peak. 

At around 9:40AM, we began our trek with a steep climb back to the main trail. Then on, it was mostly flat. We crossed mountain streams that were rushing down to meet the river. The sky was clear and the views were spectacular. 

On the way, we had a beautiful view of Nandi peak.

At some stretches, we had to wear helmets due to falling rock. Normally, tiny rocks roll down towards the river. Then these mountains also have a lot of Bharals (Blue sheep). They while walking, displace the rocks and cause a rockfall. So, it is important to keep a watch on this. 

We reached Bhojwasa campsite at around 12:20AM. But before descending to the campsite, we stayed at a rest house. During that time, the porters unpacked and setup our tents. 

There are two small ashrams in Bhojwasa. Sadhus grow vegetables outside the ashram. Outside their shelters, they had boards reading -  "Yoga and meditation classes offered here". They also offer shelter to those in need. There are also some shelters built by the forest department. It appeared like a small settlement there and perhaps thus, I preferred the serenity of Chirbasa campsite more. 

Due to cold wind, I stayed mostly in the tent after lunch (Rajma-rice). Divyesh and I had a long conversation about life in general. Around 6PM, Shushrut and I picked a suitable spot to capture the time-lapse of the sunset over the Bhagirathi Massif.  While speaking to him, I learnt that he wishes to do his Masters in the US, preferable near Charlotte where his sister lives. 

Bhojwasa campsite is next to the Bhagirathi River. The next day, we had to cross the river and take the trail on the opposite side. To cross the river, they have a pulley and cable arrangement which is manually operated. This could take a long time and our Trek leads wanted to skip Gaumukh on the way and do it while returning. There was a small debate and we insisted that we stick to the plan and finish Gaumukh during the onward journey. They finally agreed and it was decided that we wake up at 4AM, have breakfast and be ready to leave by 6AM and form a queue to cross the river before the others arrive.

Aseem fell sick that night and had high fever. We wondered if he could continue the next day. 

A big group arrived late in the night. It was therefore apparent that it would be crowded at the crossing, the next day. Until late night people were crossing the river from the other side. We went to bed soon after dinner. I was a bit nervous about this crossing as I had no idea how this was going to be. 

CONTINUED HERE: Gaumukh Tapovan Trek - Day 03

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