Mt. Shivling (Max Altitude 6543 m)
A Rollercoaster of Adventures - Highly Technical Expedition meant for Experienced Climbers Only
Mt. Shivling Peak
Grade 8Opposite the majestic, triple-summited Bhagirathi massif, and rising above the emerald meadows of Tapovan, Mt. Shivling stands as one of the most iconic peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas. Its dramatic, needle-shaped silhouette and flawless symmetry give it a mystical presence, earning it the title of the “Indian Matterhorn.” At 6,543 meters, the mountain combines stunning natural beauty with deep spiritual significance. Believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, its very form resembles the sacred Shiv Ling, while Tapovan at its base continues to draw sages and spiritual seekers into long periods of meditation despite the severe alpine conditions.
The expedition begins from the revered Himalayan town of Gangotri and unfolds across a breathtaking variety of landscapes—through the pine-scented trails of Chirbasa, across the vast and serene grasslands of Tapovan, and finally over rugged glacial terrain leading straight to its steep icy faces. Along the route, climbers are treated to panoramic views of revered peaks that add to the mountain’s grandeur. For some, Shivling serves as an introduction to technical Himalayan climbing; for others, it stands as a formidable challenge in its own right. Either way, the peak promises a truly aspirational mountaineering experience.
This climb is classified as technical and demanding, requiring expertise with mountaineering gear, advanced climbing skills, and the ability to thrive in extreme high-altitude conditions. Only seasoned mountaineers with formal training or substantial high-altitude expedition experience should undertake this ascent.
Continue reading to explore the Mt. Shivling expedition in detail—covering the itinerary, route options, FAQs, and eligibility requirements.
Day 1: Make your way to Gangotri (3,415M)
Day 2: Rest and acclimatization at Gangotri (3,415M)
Day 3: Gangotri (3,415M) to Bhojwasa (3,775M) via Chirbasa (3,600M)
Day 4: Bhojwasa (3,775M) to Tapovan (4,460M) via Gomukh (4,025M)
Day 5: Acclimatization at Base Camp
Day 6 – Day 18: Expedition
Day 19: Depart from Gangotri
Day 20 and 21: Reserve Days
Day 1: Arrival at Gangotri (3,415 m)
Drive from Dehradun to Gangotri (245 km / 8–9 hrs)
Early assembly at meeting point by 7 AM for the drive
Check-in at accommodation and rest
No major activity planned; ensure early arrival to rest for the next day
Day 2: Rest & Acclimatization at Gangotri (3,415 m)
Explore Gangotri market and nearby areas
Group debriefing session: schedule overview, do’s & don’ts, environmental responsibility
Evening short acclimatization walk
Overnight: Accommodation at Gangotri
Day 3: Gangotri → Bhojwasa (3,775 m) via Chirbasa (3,600 m)
Distance: 14 km Trek
Trek alongside Bhagirathi River to Chirbasa (“home of pine”)
Packed lunch at Chirbasa
Continue trek to Bhojwasa (“home of birch trees”)
Evening sunset over Bhagirathi peaks
Overnight: Camp at Bhojwasa
Day 4: Bhojwasa → Tapovan (4,460 m) via Gomukh (4,025 m)
Distance: 13 km Trek
Cross Gomukh (mouth of the glacier), source of River Ganga
Trek along moraine-rich glaciers to Tapovan
Set up camp near streams and wildflower meadows
Spot Bharal (blue mountain goats) and views of Bhagirathi I, II, III
Overnight: Camp at Tapovan
Day 5: Acclimatization at Base Camp (4,460 m)
Distribution and setup of gear
Technical training and practice on icy slopes
Rest and acclimatization to altitude and terrain
Overnight: Base Camp
Day 6–Day 18: Expedition to Mt. Shivling Summit
High Camps: Advanced Base Camp (4,700 m), Camp 1 (5,300 m), Camp 2 (5,850 m), Summit Camp
Acclimatization Method: Rotation rounds between camps (“Climb High, Sleep Low”)
Load ferry: move gear to higher camps, return to lower camp to sleep
Occupy Summit Camp on Day 13, first summit attempt on Day 14
Summit views include Bhagirathi Peaks and surrounding Himalaya
Descent to Base Camp on Day 15
Gradual trek back to Bhojwasa by Day 17
Departure from Gangotri on Day 18
Day 19: Departure from Gangotri
Celebrate successful expedition
Departure arrangements from Gangotri
Day 20–21: Reserve Days
Reserved for unforeseen delays, bad weather, or other challenges
Only utilized if expedition schedule is impacted
What's Included
- Food as per menu on the trek
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges (upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- 4 season Dome Tents, Thermal rated Sleeping bags, Sleeping mats
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Expedition guide, cook, helpers, HAP and LAP for carrying common supplies
- Course certified & experienced Expedition Leader with Wilderness Emergency Responder & Rescue. course from NIM Uttarkashi
- Technical Equipment – PP Ropes, Helmet, Ice Axe, Crampons, Mountaineering Boots, Snow Stake, Dead Man/Boy
- Peak Booking Fee Charges (upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
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What's Not Included
- Portage of personal bags during the expedition
- Meals during road journeys from Dehradun to Gangotri
- Meals during hotel stay in Gangotri
- Cost of any kind of Travel Insurance.
- IMF Peak Booking Fee for foreign nationals US$ 700 for a team of two members and US$ 325 for every additional participants
- Forest Permit / Camping Fee for foreign nationals (USD 880-1000 upto group of 10)
- Mandatory Liaison Officer Fee for foreign expeditions ( ~USD 500 for group of 10)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Mt. Shivling is located in the Garhwal Himalayas, inside the Gangotri National Park, Uttarakhand. The expedition starts from the holy town of Gangotri.
Mt. Shivling stands at 6,543 meters (21,467 ft) above sea level.
Yes. Mt. Shivling is a highly technical peak involving mixed climbing (rock, ice, and steep snow slopes). Prior technical mountaineering experience is mandatory.
The expedition is recommended only for:
Climbers with previous experience above 5,500–6,000 m
Mountaineers trained in rope work, crampon/ice-axe techniques, and glacier travel
Individuals with strong physical fitness and high-altitude tolerance
Formal mountaineering courses (BMC/AMC or equivalent) are highly preferred.
The ideal windows are:
Pre-monsoon: May–June
Post-monsoon: September–October
These months offer the most stable weather and safer climbing conditions. for more info Kailasa Treks.
