The Tapovan Hot Springs are natural thermal springs located near the town of Joshimath in Auli, Uttarakhand, India. These hot springs are famous for their supposed therapeutic properties and are a popular attraction for both tourists and pilgrims who come to bathe in the sulphurous waters.
The Tapovan Hot Springs are situated in the Garhwal Himalayas, close to Joshimath town and en route to the famous Sikh pilgrimage site of Hemkund Sahib. They are located in the Auli region of Uttarakhand, India.
To reach the Tapovan Hot Springs, visitors can travel to Auli or Joshimath by road from major cities in Uttarakhand such as Rishikesh, Dehradun, or Haridwar. From Joshimath, one can trek or hire a local guide or taxi to reach the hot springs. The trek to Tapovan starts from Joshimath and follows a trail that is around 9-10 km long, usually taking about 4 to 5 hours depending on your pace and weather conditions.
The best time to visit the Tapovan Hot Springs is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the trekking routes are accessible. The monsoon season from late June to early September should be avoided due to the risk of landslides and slippery paths.
As of the last information available, there is no entry fee to visit the Tapovan Hot Springs. However, visitors should check the latest details before planning their trip as policies and regulations may change.
Facilities at the Tapovan Hot Springs are quite basic. There are separate bathing areas for men and women to use the hot springs. However, visitors should be aware that there are limited amenities, and they should come prepared with essentials like water, food, and a change of clothes.
Visitors should maintain the sanctity of the place as it is considered holy by many. It is also important to respect the environment by not littering, to stay on marked trails to preserve the local ecology, and to use the hot springs responsibly without causing damage or pollution. Since the trek to the hot springs can be physically demanding, visitors should assess their health and fitness levels before attempting to trek.
Accommodation options around Tapovan Hot Springs are limited due to its remote location. Most visitors choose to stay in accommodations available in Joshimath or Auli, which offer a range of hotels, guest houses, and homestays. Trekkers may also camp in designated areas but should be properly equipped and aware of the environmental guidelines.
No, the Tapovan Hot Springs are not accessible year-round. The region experiences heavy snowfall in the winter months from November to March, making the trek route difficult and sometimes impossible to navigate. As such, it is advisable to plan a visit between May and October.
In addition to the Tapovan Hot Springs, visitors to the Auli region can explore a variety of attractions including Auli's ski slopes, the Nanda Devi National Park, Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib, and numerous trekking trails that offer panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The area is also known for its beautiful landscapes, meadows, and opportunities for adventure sports like skiing and paragliding.
