Short answer: Nelong valley is a high, dry valley near the India-Tibet border, reached from the Bhairon Ghati checkpost above Harsil. It is open to Indian nationals only, on a day permit arranged through the district administration in Uttarkashi, roughly May to November. No overnight stays are allowed, so Harsil is the natural base.
Nelong valley at a glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where | North of Bhairon Ghati, Uttarkashi district, near the Tibet border |
| From Harsil | Up the Gangotri road to Bhairon Ghati, then about 23 km into the valley |
| Who can go | Indian nationals only - no foreign nationals |
| Permit | Required; arranged through the SDM office, Uttarkashi |
| Season | Roughly May to November |
| Overnight stay | Not allowed - back at the checkpost before evening |
| Best months | May-June and mid-September to mid-October |
What is Nelong valley like?
Once through the checkpost the landscape changes fast: the green of the Bhagirathi gives way to bare brown mountains, scree and a wide, braided river - closer to Ladakh or Spiti than to the rest of Garhwal. It was closed to civilians for decades after 1962 and only reopened to tourists in 2015, so it still feels untouched. The road follows the Jadh Ganga, the same river Gartang Gali hangs above.
How do you get a Nelong valley permit?
Permits are issued through the SDM office in Uttarkashi and usually take a day or two. You will need ID for every traveller and your vehicle details. Rules and the process change, so check the current procedure before you go - ask us and we will tell you what is working this season. A Gangotri National Park entry fee is also charged per person and per vehicle.
How the day works
- Leave Harsil early with permit, ID and a packed lunch - there is nothing to buy beyond the checkpost.
- Drive to Bhairon Ghati, have papers checked, and continue into the valley.
- Stop where you are permitted; photography may be restricted near army posts.
- Be back through the checkpost by the time stated on your permit, usually before evening.
Tips
- Altitude climbs well above Harsil's 2,620 m. Spend at least one night in Harsil first.
- Use a vehicle with good clearance and a driver who knows the road.
- Carry warm layers even in summer - the wind is strong and cold.
- Combine with Gartang Gali on the same permit route if time allows.
Nelong fits on day 3 or 4 of a Harsil trip - see our 3-day Harsil itinerary and things to do in Harsil. To stay close to the checkpost, see Harsil Village Resort.
Frequently asked questions
Is a permit needed for Nelong valley?
Yes. Every visitor needs a permit, arranged through the SDM office in Uttarkashi. It is a day permit and overnight stays are not allowed.
Can foreigners visit Nelong valley?
No. Nelong valley is open to Indian nationals only.
How far is Nelong valley from Harsil?
Drive up the Gangotri road to the Bhairon Ghati checkpost, then about 23 km into the valley. It is an easy day trip from Harsil.
When is Nelong valley open?
Roughly May to November. The best months are May-June and mid-September to mid-October.
Where should I stay for Nelong valley?
Harsil is the nearest base with a good choice of rooms, since no stays are allowed inside the valley.