Gartang Gali

Gartang Gali Location

Gartang Gali is a historical pass located in Uttarkashi district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It holds significant importance due to its historical and strategic relevance. During ancient times, Gartang Gali was a trade route that connected India with Tibet. It served as a crucial passage for trade and cultural exchange between the two regions. Traders used this route to transport goods like salt, spices, wool, and more between India and Tibet.       

Historical Significance   

 Gartang Gali, there exists a historic wooden terraced track carved into steep rocks. This ancient trail once connected the villages of Jadung and Nelang, serving as a vital foot route from the Harshil area. Local communities, especially the Bhutia people in Uttarkashi, engaged in trade with Tibet using this route. Additionally, the military utilized the track for border surveillance.

Gartang Gali, being one of the oldest trade routes, facilitated the transport of goods such as wool, jaggery, and spices. This commerce significantly contributed to the livelihood of the Bhutia community.

Over time, the narrow and precarious nature of Gartang Gali, combined with neglect following the Indo-China war of 1962, led to its deterioration. However, the Gartang Gali Bridge has emerged as a tourist attraction since the inception of tourism in Nelang Valley. The government is now actively working to transform it into a designated tourist destination.

Here are the travel guidelines for Gartang Gali, with both the Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s:

1. Tourist Registration: Tourists must register themselves at the Check Post of Bhairavghati before proceeding.
2. Follow Covid Guidelines: Travelers must adhere to Covid guidelines, which may include mask-wearing, social distancing, and any other safety measures in place.
3. Limited Group Size: A maximum of 10 people will be allowed to walk at a time, and they must maintain a distance of one meter to ensure smooth traffic on the track.

Don’ts:

1. No Jumping and Dancing: There is a strict ban on jumping and dancing on the track to prevent accidents and maintain a safe environment.
2. No Flocking: Travelers are forbidden to sit and travel in groups on the track to avoid congestion and ensure a smooth flow of traffic.
3. No Peeping from Railing: For safety reasons, it is prohibited to peep down from the railing of the track. This measure is in place to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of all visitors.
4. No Smoking or Inflammable Substances: Smoking and carrying other inflammable substances in the track area are strictly prohibited. This is to prevent the risk of fire and ensure the safety of everyone on the track.