In a region widely known for spiritual tourism, it can be a challenge to locate a clean, semi-isolated, serene place of actual peace and quiet. This part of Garhwal Uttarakhand, so close to Gangotri (also known as the origin of the great Ganga), is usually teeming with tourists looking to reach various places of worship. Overtourism of any kind, even spiritual tourism, comes at a cost to the environment, but there are a few pockets that retain its simple and powerful sanctity, letting the majesty of the mountains, valleys, forests, and rivers do all the talking.
Above the Ganges is just that place. It is a haven, revealing an alternative understanding of Uttarkashi/Uttarakhand. Sitting in a tiny village on a mountain slope and accessible only after a 30 minute uphill hike, Above the Ganges is a heritage-style abode surrounded by deodar forests, with views of the Ganga river and surrounding valley. It sits at an altitude of approximately 2800 metres, high above the plains. Orchards around the homestay are especially bountiful during plucking season, reflecting the surrounding village’s main occupation – the cultivation of crisp apples, juicy pears, and more.
Above the Ganges is built with local materials, blending in nicely with the hamlet. The hosts are a charming couple with experience in mountaineering and hiking, and they are eager to welcome guests like you.
comforts
Spending time at Above the Ganges means enjoying the privacy that comes with just 4 bedrooms in total. 2 bedrooms are upstairs. One is an expansive double room setup complete with a verandah that brings the outdoors to you.
The ground floor follows a similar floor plan, but the double room here opens into a sitout that overlooks the valley.
All 4 baths come attached.
In the tradition of authentic homestays, the hosts reside here as well.
food
Simplicity and nutrition are key to enjoying life at this altitude, and the hosts offer delicious pahadi-style vegetarian meals. The menu varies based on the availability of local ingredients and produce, allowing freshness to take centre stage. Think delicately flavoured dals, piping hot rotis made with deft expertise, vegetable curries and sabzis, salads, and fluffy rice to boot. Non-vegetarian meals are available on request.
You also get your chai fix, an essential in these parts, thrice a day.
There is a kitchenette available for long term stays – offering the opportunity to share your favourite recipes and dishes with the hosts and other guests in residence!
ideal for
In the vein of most Knowhere Travel homes, this one is ideal for a small group – 2 or 3 families coming together to enjoy the vista, or a small friend group. Solo travellers wanting to escape the crowds of yatra attendees will be hard-pressed to find a better welcome than this.
Trekkers will feel at home interacting with hosts who are mountaineering experts, while spiritual devotees will find the quiet much preferable to the usual large and loud crowds – offering a privacy that suits the desire for a more personal interaction with the local deities.
Above the Ganges is also a nice way to familiarise yourself with Trans-Himalayan landscapes similar to Ladakh and Spiti without the sometimes arduous journey, with Nelong Valley being an hour’s drive away.
getting there
It’s a 30-minute uphill hike to the homestay from the road head, while driving from Uttarkashi to Gangotri.
things to do
Spotting birds as they perch from the deodar trees and the surrounding valley is a favourite pastime of guests here, and you will probably find a plethora of beauties like the Great barbet, chubby little nuthatches, the Himalayan bulbul, finches, monals, and more.
There are several stunning trails around so bring your hiking shoes for a holiday of scenic walks. This area is possibly the best way to see the great Ganga in its original form – clean, clear, and blue. Find a spot by the river and have a small picnic in the company of your nearest and dearest.
We can organise a short drive to Gartang Gali, a famous wooden bridge once part of an ancient Tibetan trade route, that might pique your interest. Otherwise, there are tiny Tibetan hamlets that you can visit, with residents having set up their lives here after the 1962 Indo-Sino War.
While we don’t organise visits to Gangotri, you can visit the temple to get a darshan if you wish.
price
Rs 2700 + 5% GST per night on a single occupancy basis
Rs 5400 + 5% GST per night on a double occupancy basis
Rs 7500 + 5% GST per night on a triple occupancy basis
Includes – Accommodation, breakfast and lunch/dinner (veg), tea/coffee (twice a day), assistance from the road head (one guide), all applicable service charges and 5% GST.
