Dharchula Diaries : Gunji Village Enroute Adi Kailash Mansarovar

Dharchula is a border town with Nepal just a suspended bridge away. A strategically located town, after Indo-China war and troubles related with Tibet, Dharchula became an important location for deployment of ITBP, BRO and other forces. Gunji village is an important and scenic juncture enroute Adi Kailash Mansarovar. On an open sky day you can even enjoy Annapurna peak in Nepal and the mighty peaks of Himalaya. However, it is not an easy trek.

Since time immemorial, trade between India- Tibet-China has always been very prevalent.  Be it the famous silk route or lesser known routes through the meadows and mountains of Uttarakhand  the trade route were spotted with villages that used to serve as halting places for the traders and slowly these villagers en-route started to interact with traders, exchange of goods and culture made them rich and vibrant. These villages are still remote and oblivious of the changing world the place has held on to its culture and values.

One such village is Gunji tucked in Vyans Valley. This valley falls in Dharchula sub division of district Pithoragarh.  The Vyans valley is believed to be named after Ved Vyas, the first great saint according to the Hindu mythology. This valley also leads to the famous Kailash Mansarovar and Adi Kailash yatra.  Gunji is the junction point where one bifurcates for Kailash and Adi Kailash.

How To Reach Gunji?

To reach Gunji one can drive-up to Garvadhar, the shortest route is from Delhi is Delhi- Tanakpur- Champawat-Pithoragarh-Dharchula-Garvadhar. From Garvadhar one has to trek upto Budhi  trek this is one day walk on a well defined foot track. Budhi-Gunji Motorable road exists but there is no conveyance available other then defence forces and two gypsies operated by Adikailash trek managed by Mr Laxman Kutiyal. Road is under construction and will be motorable shortly. Helicopter services from Dharchula is available between April to July.

For on foot trek, read this blog: Adi Kailash Trek: A Journey to the sacred places in Himalaya

The Gunji Village

The village is located in broad valley and has about 150 houses with a total population of about 320 habitants also known by their surname Gunjiyals and is part of famous Rang community. Also known as Shaukas colloquially called as Bhotias; they are seasonal occupants and stay in the village from March to November. During these months people are engaged in farming trading and serving tourists. Located at the confluence of Kutti and Kali River, Gunji village looks ephemeral. The village from where you can see the mighty Himalayas, undeterred and clear.

The houses have beautiful carvings at the entrance depicting god n goddess. The walls of these houses are made from stones that is chiseled and put to make a dry wall.

From Gunji you can see Annapuna Ranges with its sharp pointed peak.

This tribal community still believes and practices old age medicine.

The valley is broadest in the region and commands the best views and sunlight.  You might need inner line permit at some places while trekking towards Adi Kailash.

When To Visit?

Summers is a good time to enjoy this rich cultured Himalayan village. Infact, according to a local, though a little risky but rainy season is the best to enjoy flaura and fauna of Himalayas.

So when are you planning to come this way? Let me know if you need any assistance in planning a trip to this part of Uttarakhand  🙂