Imagine walking on a wooden bridge that hangs high on a steep cliff. Below you, a river flows fast. Above you, there are tall mountains. The path is narrow, and the view is scary but beautiful. This is the Gartang Gali Trek.
For many years, no one was allowed to go here. It was a secret path. But now, it is open for you. If you love adventure and history, this place is a must-visit in Uttarakhand.
In this blog, I will tell you everything about the Gartang Gali Trek. I will share the opening dates for 2026, the ticket price, how to reach, and where to stay. I am sharing this from my own experience of 15 years in travel, so you can trust this guide completely.
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What is Gartang Gali?
Gartang Gali is not just a bridge. It is a piece of history. It is a 136-meter-long wooden bridge built on a vertical rock face. It looks like a balcony hanging in the sky.
The Amazing History
Over 150 years ago, traders used this path. These traders, called Pathans, came from Peshawar (now in Pakistan). They built this bridge to trade goods like salt, wool, and spices between India and Tibet. It was part of the old Silk Route.
In 1962, after the war between India and China, the government closed this bridge. No one used it for almost 60 years. The wood rotted, and the path became dangerous.
But in 2021, the government repaired it. They used strong Deodar wood to make it safe again. Now, you can walk on the same path where traders walked 100 years ago.
Quick Facts at a Glance
Before you plan your trip, here are the key details you need to know.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Nelong Valley, Uttarkashi (near Gangotri) |
| Altitude | 11,000 feet (approx.) |
| Trek Distance | 2.5 km (one way) |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Ticket Price (Indian) | ₹150 – ₹200 (approx.) |
| Ticket Price (Foreigner) | ₹600 – ₹850 (approx.) |
| Opening Time | 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | May to June & September to October |
Gartang Gali Opening Dates 2026
The Gartang Gali Trek is not open all year round. In winter, the area gets very heavy snowfall. The roads get blocked, and the bridge becomes unsafe.
For 2026, the expected opening date is around April 15, 2026.
- Season Start: Mid-April
- Season End: Mid-November
The exact date depends on the weather. If there is less snow, it might open a few days early. If there is heavy snow, it might open in May. Always check the local news or ask your travel agent before leaving.
How to Reach Gartang Gali
Reaching the start point of the Gartang Gali Trek is an adventure in itself. The start point is Lanka Bridge, which is near Bhaironghati. It is about 90 km from Uttarkashi main town.
Here is the best way to reach there:
1. By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
- From the airport, you must hire a taxi to reach Uttarkashi or Harsil.
- Distance: About 250 km.
- Time: 8 to 9 hours drive.
2. By Train
The nearest railway stations are Rishikesh or Dehradun.
- From Rishikesh, you can take a bus or taxi to Uttarkashi.
- It is a long journey, so start early in the morning.
3. By Road (The Most Popular Way)
Most people drive or take a taxi. The route is very scenic. You will see the river Bhagirathi flowing with you.
The Route:
Dehradun -> Mussoorie -> Chinyalisaur -> Uttarkashi -> Bhatwari -> Harsil -> Lanka Bridge (Start Point).
Pro Tip: Do not try to go from Dehradun to Gartang Gali in one day. It is too tiring. Stay the night in Harsil or Uttarkashi.
The Trekking Experience: Step-by-Step
Let me describe what it feels like to do the Gartang Gali Trek.
Step 1: The Check Post
You start at Lanka Bridge. There is a forest check post here. You have to show your ID card (Aadhar Card is best). You pay the entry fee here. They will check your bag to ensure you are not carrying plastic bottles or alcohol.
Step 2: The Forest Trail
The first part of the trek is through a dense forest. It is a mix of Pine and Deodar trees. The path goes up and down, but it is not very steep. You will walk for about 1.5 km to 2 km on a dirt path. It is peaceful and quiet. You can hear the birds singing.
Step 3: The Wooden Bridge (The Main Part)
Suddenly, the forest ends, and you see the cliff. Here begins the famous Gartang Gali wooden bridge.
- The bridge is attached to the side of a hard rock wall.
- Below you is a deep valley where the Jadh Ganga river flows.
- The bridge has wooden railings, so it is safe.
- But looking down can make your heart beat faster!
You walk on this wooden path for about 136 meters. This is the best place for photos. You can see the Nelong Valley ahead.
Step 4: The End Point
The bridge leads to a small open area. This used to be a resting point for traders. You can sit here, drink some water, and enjoy the view. You cannot go further towards the China border without a special permit. From here, you turn back and return the same way.
Ticket Price and Permits
You do not need to book online months in advance like Kedarnath. You can get the permit on the spot at the Lanka Bridge Check Post.
- Registration: Mandatory at the entrance.
- Documents: Carry your original Aadhar Card or Voter ID.
- Cost: The fee changes slightly every year, but usually, it is around ₹150 to ₹200 per person for Indians.
- Timings:
- Entry starts: 9:00 AM
- Last entry allowed: 3:00 PM
- Everyone must come back by: 5:00 PM
Note: The forest department is strict about time. If you reach after 3:00 PM, they will not let you enter.
Best Time to Visit Gartang Gali
Choosing the right time is very important for a good view and safety.
Summer (May to June)
This is the best time. The weather is pleasant. The days are sunny. The snow has melted, and the valley looks green. It is perfect for trekking.
Monsoon (July to August)
Avoid this time if possible. The roads in the mountains can get blocked due to landslides. The wooden bridge can get slippery when wet.
Autumn (September to November)
This is my favorite time. The sky is crystal clear blue. The trees start turning yellow and orange. The air is crisp and cold. It is very beautiful for photography.
Winter (December to March)
The trek is CLOSED. The area is covered in snow.
Where to Stay?
There are no hotels exactly at Gartang Gali. You have to stay in nearby towns.
1. Harsil Valley (Recommended)
Harsil is only 20-25 minutes away by car. It is one of the most beautiful villages in India.
- Options: There are many homestays, small hotels, and luxury resorts.
- Why stay here: You can enjoy the apple orchards and the river.
2. Dharali
Just 3 km from Harsil. It is quieter and has decent homestays.
3. Bhaironghati
There is a small GMVN guest house here, but it has very basic facilities. Only stay here if you want to be very close to the trek.
Is Gartang Gali Safe? (Safety Tips)
Many people ask me, “Is the wooden bridge safe?”
Yes, it is safe. The government has rebuilt it with strong wood and iron. However, you must follow these rules:
- Do Not Jump: The bridge is strong, but jumping can weaken the structure.
- Maintain Distance: Only 5-10 people are allowed on the bridge section at a time. Keep a gap between groups.
- No Leaning: Do not lean over the railing to take selfies. It is very high and dangerous.
- Health Check: If you are afraid of heights (vertigo), be careful. Look straight ahead, not down.
- No Smoking: It is a wooden bridge in a forest. Fire is a big risk. Smoking is strictly banned.
Other Places to Visit Nearby
If you are coming all the way to Gartang Gali, you should visit these places too.
- Gangotri Temple: One of the Char Dhams. It is just 10 km from the Gartang Gali start point. You can visit the temple in the morning and do the trek in the afternoon.
- Nelong Valley: This is called the Ladakh of Uttarakhand. It looks like a cold desert. You need a special permit to visit Nelong Valley (different from the Gartang Gali permit).
- Mukhba Village: This is the winter home of Goddess Ganga. It is a beautiful village with old wooden houses.
Packing List for the Trek
You do not need heavy trekking gear, but carry these things:
- Good Shoes: Wear sports shoes or trekking shoes with good grip. No sandals or slippers.
- Water Bottle: Carry at least 1 liter of water. There are no shops on the trek.
- Warm Jacket: Even in summer, it can get windy and cold.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The sun is very strong in the mountains.
- Raincoat: Weather in the mountains can change in 5 minutes.
Conclusion
The Gartang Gali Trek is a unique experience. It mixes the thrill of adventure with the beauty of history. Walking on that wooden bridge gives you a feeling that you cannot get anywhere else in India.
In 2026, make a plan to visit this hidden gem. Whether you are with family or friends, you will love the walk. Just remember to respect nature, follow the rules, and keep the mountains clean.
Would you like me to create a 3-day itinerary for a trip to Harsil and Gartang Gali?
FAQs about Gartang Gali Trek
Q1: How long is the Gartang Gali Trek?
A: The trek is about 2.5 km one way from the Lanka Bridge check post. The total distance for going and coming back is 5 km.
Q2: Is Gartang Gali open in December?
A: No, Gartang Gali is usually closed in December due to heavy snowfall. It opens from mid-April to mid-November.
Q3: Can we take kids to Gartang Gali?
A: Yes, children above 7-8 years can do this trek. It is not very difficult. However, parents must hold their hands while walking on the wooden bridge section for safety.
Q4: Do we need a guide for Gartang Gali?
A: No, you do not need a guide. The path is very clear and well-marked. You cannot get lost.
Q5: What is the ticket price for Gartang Gali in 2026?
A: The ticket price is expected to be around ₹150 to ₹200 for Indian tourists and around ₹600 to ₹800 for foreign tourists.
Q6: Is there a mobile network at Gartang Gali?
A: The network is very weak. You might get some signal for BSNL or Jio near the start point, but on the trek, there is usually no signal.
Q7: Can we do Gangotri and Gartang Gali on the same day?
A: Yes, absolutely. You can visit Gangotri Temple early in the morning (around 7 AM) and then come to Gartang Gali for the trek around 11 AM or 12 PM.
Q8: Why is Nelong Valley famous?
A: Nelong Valley tourism is famous because the landscape looks like Tibet or Ladakh. It is a cold desert with amazing views of the Tibetan plateau.
Q9: How far is Gartang Gali from Harsil?
A: It is very close. The drive from Harsil to the trek start point (Lanka Bridge) takes only about 20 to 30 minutes.
More Important
- How to plan a trip to Gangotri Dham
- Best places to stay in Harsil Valley
- Top 5 Treks in Uttarakhand for Beginners
- Guide to Nelong Valley Permits
- Char Dham Yatra 2026 Opening Dates
