Sachin Lama
Founder & Lead Expedition Leader
NIM Advanced Mountaineering (Grade A) · Wilderness First Responder · guiding since 2013
6,000 M EXPEDITION STANDARD
Mt. Shivling
Opposite 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.
Published price₹ 2,19,999 + 5% GSTFinal amount for your dates confirmed in a written quote
Reply within 24 hoursNo payment to enquireWritten quote before you pay
Altitude6,543 m
Duration21 Days
SeasonMay to June & September to October
GradeDifficult
IS THIS TRIP RIGHT FOR YOU?
Who the Mt. Shivling suits
A high-altitude objective for prepared trekkers and climbers ready to be assessed honestly against the route, terrain and technical demands.
What you need to join
- Past high-altitude trekking above 4,500 m; your history is reviewed in a readiness call.
- Strong cardiovascular conditioning: comfortable carrying a day pack for 6–8 hours on consecutive days.
- A signed medical fitness certificate before your booking is confirmed.
- Specialised mountaineering insurance that covers search, rescue and helicopter evacuation up to the route’s maximum altitude. Standard travel insurance usually excludes roped climbing above 4,500 m.
THE ROUTE
Mt. Shivling route overview
The Mt. Shivling is a 21-day 6,000 m mountaineering expedition in Uttarakhand that reaches 6,543 m. Kailasa grades it Difficult. The best time to go is May to June & September to October. The published price with Kailasa Treks is ₹ 2,19,999 + 5% GST.
Opposite 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.
| Region | Uttarakhand |
|---|---|
| Starts from | Dehradun |
| Highest point | 6,543 m |
| Duration | 21 Days |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Best season | May to June & September to October |
| Price | ₹ 2,19,999 + 5% GST |
Route details last reviewed 23 September 2026. Terrain, weather and permits can change the plan on the mountain.
DAY BY DAY
21 Days Mt. Shivling itinerary
Tap a day to see the route, distances and camps. The schedule can change with acclimatisation, weather and team safety.
- Stage: 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
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
- 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
- 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
Distribution and setup of gear
Technical training and practice on icy slopes
Rest and acclimatization to altitude and terrain Overnight: Base Camp
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
Gradual trek back to Bhojwasa by Day 17
Departure from Gangotri on Day 18
Celebrate successful expedition
Departure arrangements from Gangotri
Reserved for unforeseen delays, bad weather, or other challenges
Only utilized if expedition schedule is impacted
UNDERSTAND THE PRICE
What the ₹ 2,19,999 price includes
The published price is ₹ 2,19,999 + 5% GST. Here is what it covers and what it does not, so nothing surprises you later. Your written quote confirms the final amount for your dates and nationality.
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)
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)
GETTING THERE
How do you reach the start of the Mt. Shivling?
The expedition starts in Dehradun. Day 1 of the itinerary: Arrival at Gangotri (3,415 m).
- Most Garhwal and Kumaon expeditions begin in Dehradun. Fly into Jolly Grant Airport (DED), or take an overnight train or bus from Delhi.
- From the start point, the team drives you to the roadhead (for example Uttarkashi, Gangotri or Joshimath, depending on the route).
Your exact meeting point and time are confirmed in your trip briefing.
PACKING LIST
What should you pack for the Mt. Shivling?
Technical gear listed under “Included” is provided by Kailasa; bring your own only if you prefer it.
Clothing
- Base layers (synthetic or merino), top and bottom
- Fleece or light insulated mid-layer
- Waterproof, breathable shell jacket and trousers
- Insulated gloves plus thin liner gloves
- Warm hat, buff or neck gaiter, sun cap
- Trekking socks and warm wool socks (3–4 pairs)
Footwear
- Double or high-altitude mountaineering boots (crampon-compatible)
- Broken-in trekking shoes for the approach
- Camp sandals or light shoes
Warmth for high camps
- Down jacket rated for −20 °C or colder
- Down mittens for summit day
- Sleeping bag rated to −20 °C
Packs & poles
- 60–70 litre rucksack with a rain cover
- 25–30 litre summit day pack
- Adjustable trekking poles
Personal
- Sunglasses (UV400, category 3–4) and SPF 50 sunscreen
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Two 1-litre water bottles or a hydration bladder
- Personal medicines and a small first-aid kit
- Quick-dry towel, toiletries and hand sanitiser
- Original photo ID and copies of permits and insurance
WHO CLIMBS WITH YOU
Led by people who live in these mountains
Every Mt. Shivling team is led by certified Kailasa guides. You meet your assigned expedition leader at the technical briefing three weeks before departure.
Pasang Sherpa
Sardar & fixed-rope team leader
22+ years on Himalayan expeditions · 16 Everest summits · Lhotse, Makalu, Dhaulagiri
CANCELLATION
What happens if you need to cancel?
What you get back depends on how long before the start date you cancel. You can take a refund or a credit for a future Kailasa trip, valid for one year.
| Before start | Refund | Future credit (same participant) | Future credit (another participant) |
|---|---|---|---|
| More than 60 days | 85% | 100% | Not stated |
| 60 to 30 days | 70% | 85% | 75% |
| 30 to 10 days | 40% | 70% | 65% |
| Less than 10 days | No refund | 50% | 40% |
BEFORE YOU ENQUIRE
Mt. Shivling questions
Where is Mt. Shivling located?
Mt. Shivling is located in the Garhwal Himalayas, inside the Gangotri National Park, Uttarakhand. The expedition starts from the holy town of Gangotri.
What is the height of Mt. Shivling?
Mt. Shivling stands at 6,543 meters (21,467 ft) above sea level.
Is Mt. Shivling a technical peak?
Yes. Mt. Shivling is a highly technical peak involving mixed climbing (rock, ice, and steep snow slopes). Prior technical mountaineering experience is mandatory.
Who is eligible to climb Mt. Shivling?
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.
What is the best time to climb Mt. Shivling?
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.
YOUR EXPEDITION STARTS HERE
Speak to the team before you decide.
Share your preferred dates, nationality and climbing history. Kailasa can assess route fit, then confirm the current itinerary, field support, permits, equipment and final amount in writing.
Published base price₹ 2,19,999 + 5% GSTPrice last reviewed 23 September 2026. It is not a final quotation.
- STEP 1Share your plansSend your preferred dates and climbing history on WhatsApp or email.
- STEP 2Readiness call & quoteThe team checks route fit and sends the final amount in writing.
- STEP 3Confirm your seatBook once you have read the quote and the booking terms.
Reply within 24 hours · No payment to enquire · Written quote before you pay. Review the cancellation, privacy and booking terms before paying.
KEEP EXPLORING
Similar expeditions
THE KAILASA STANDARD
A serious mountain deserves
a serious plan.
No blind checkout. No one-size-fits-all promise. Your enquiry begins with the route, your experience and the questions that matter before you commit.
Start a private planning conversationFit before booking
Your climbing history and readiness are discussed before the team recommends a route.
Safety before summit
Acclimatisation, conditions and field decisions take priority over a fixed summit promise.
Clarity before payment
Ask for the current itinerary, inclusions, equipment plan and written final quote.
Team around the objective
Confirm your expedition leader, support team and departure-specific safety arrangements.