Adventure · Harsil, Garhwal
Gartang Gali, the old Tibet trade walkway
Walk a restored wooden gallery of about 150 m bolted to a sheer cliff above the Jadh Ganga gorge, part of the old trade route between the Bhagirathi valley and Tibet. A short, dramatic outing from Harsil with Gangotri National Park entry.
Photo: Harshit SR · CC BY-SA 4.0 · CommonsFor centuries traders from the Jadh Ganga valley, including the Jadh people of Nelang, carried wool, salt and borax between Tibet and the Bhagirathi valley. Where the gorge narrowed near Bhaironghati, they built a wooden walkway along the cliff face, known as Gartang Gali. After the 1962 war the route closed, and the gallery fell into ruin.
The state restored the walkway, and it reopened to visitors in 2021 within Gangotri National Park. You drive from Harsil towards Bhaironghati, register and pay at the forest checkpost, then walk a short trail to the gallery and along it. The planks run along a vertical cliff with the river far below; railings make it safe for anyone comfortable with heights.
Go in the morning, when the gorge is calm and light is good. Entry fees are about ₹150–200 for Indians and ₹600–800 for foreigners, and the area is open from about May to October, depending on the park's season. Do not climb over railings or jump on the planks. The Nelang valley beyond is an inner-line area with separate permits; check current status before you travel.
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Comfort
Landour, Harsil apples and Gangotri
Private car with driver
Questions
Before you book
Where is Gartang Gali?
In the Jadh Ganga gorge just off the road at Bhaironghati, between Harsil and Gangotri, inside Gangotri National Park. You drive to the trailhead and walk a short path to the walkway. Taxis from Harsil or Gangotri make the trip.
Is Gartang Gali safe?
The restored walkway has railings and is checked by park staff. It is very exposed, with a long drop to the river, so it can feel frightening. People with a fear of heights should think twice. Do not lean on or climb the railings.
Do I need a permit for Gartang Gali?
You need a Gangotri National Park entry ticket, bought at the checkpost or online. Fees are about ₹150–200 for Indians and ₹600–800 for foreigners. Going further into the Nelang valley needs a separate inner-line permit. Check current status before you travel.