15

Treks in Himachal For Beginners

About the Beas Kund Trek:

Embark on an enthralling trekking expedition with this Beas Kund Trek that lets you traverse through the lush green grasslands and tall mountains of this scenic location, Manali. Soothe your senses with the views of the picturesque lake through which the river Beas emerges and spot a contrasting sight of the crystal clear waters of the river, based amidst the eye-catching mountain peaks of Pir Panjal.

Conquer the mighty mountains of Himachal Pradesh and reach an altitude of 3,700 meters at Beas Kund to catch glimpses of summit views of big mountains of Manali like Friendship Peak, Shitidhar, Ladakhi, and Hanuman Tibba.

Besides, you can treat your eyes with the rare glimpses of Mt Indrasen, Deo Tibba, and more such peaks from the Pir Panjal range, if you are fortunate enough. Enjoy a delightful camping session during the thrilling trekking expedition, when you spend the chilly night stargazing at the vast expanse of star-studded night skies in your tent.

Beas Kund Trek Quick Facts:

• Beas Kund Trek Distance: 16 km
• Beas Kund Trek Height:12,139 ft
• Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate 
• Electricity: There will be no electricity at the campsite on the trek.
• ATM: Manali is the last point where you will get ATM
• Start Point/End Point: Beas Kund Trek starts from Old Manali and ends at Solang Valley
• Start Time/End Time: The trek starts at 10:00 AM (Day 2) and ends around 2:00 PM (Day 4).

Start/End Point: Bhagsu Nag Taxi Stand

Start/End Time: 09:000 AM (Day1) & 12:00 PM (Day2)

Camp Location: Leta/Mana village Village (2.5 km before Triund)

About Triund:

- Triund is the easiest Himalayan trek. With breathtaking views of the Kangra valley and the snow covered Dhauladhar ranges, it is also very picturesque.

- Triund is the ideal destination for those seeking a hassle-free taste of trekking in the Himalayas. The trek can easily be done over a weekend.

- The trail to Triund is short but steep. The steep climb is well-compensated by refreshing walks amongst rhododendron and oak trees. There are also various songbirds in the forests along the trail which make it a birdwatcher’s delight.

About the Triund Trek:

- Get a chance to witness the many small hamlets and stream through the trek to Triund.
- Feast your eyes at the majestic view of the Dhauladhar ranges on one side and Kangra valley on the other
- Enjoy camping at a high summit and the clear night sky under the billions of stars. 
- Also, enjoy a small bonfire with your friends and the other trekkers in Alpine tents on double/triple sharing basis.
- Trek through some of the most beautiful forests of alpine and fir, Rhododendron and Oak.
- Get a chance to witness the rare flora and fauna of this region as you continue your Triund trek.
- Also, taste the local cuisine of this region while you head out for the trek to Triund.

Quick Facts:

Trekking Distance: 10 km 
Maximum Altitude: 9,432 ft 
Difficulty Level: Easy 
Electricity: Electricity is available at the campsite
ATM: Mcleodganj is the last point where you will find an ATM
Trekking Gradient: Steep throughout the trail

How to reach the campsite?

You have to report at Bhagsu Nag Taxi Stand which is the starting point of the trek and it is around 3 km from Mcleodganj. Many local transports and private cabs are available from Mcleodganj to reach Bhagsu Nag.

Note: If the snow at the top of base camp is beyond the operator's control, the camping for the day will be organized in Dharamkot instead.

About the Kareri Lake trek:

Located at an elevation of about 2,950 meters in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Kareri Lake is a freshwater lake rugged amidst mountains with greenery all around. Situated in the majestic Dhauladhar range, this glacial Kareri lake trek will take you through a journey of the most scenic views as it is home to lush pasturelands, exotic perennial flowers, and dense conifers. Kareri trek is also a favorite among the shutterbugs and nature lovers who can spend some time close to nature while clicking their best shots.

Kareri Lake Trek Quick facts:

Start Point: Kareri Village

End Point: Kareri village

Kareri Lake Trek Height: 9,650 ft.

Temperature: 8°C to 20°C

Kareri Lake Trek Distance: 26 KM (to and fro)

About the trek:

Laka Glacier lies gracefully in the laps of Kangra Valley and is enveloped in the mighty Dhauladhar ranges making it a mesmerising trek to indulge in. It gains popularity as a beginner-friendly trek for the terrain is easy to moderate and as it is easily accessible from McLeodganj and Dharamshala it becomes an ideal choice for trekkers. Laka Glacier trek would offer you an adventurous experience and as you reach the top, the panoramic views of snow-covered mountain ranges would be a glorifying scenery to witness.

Start point/Endpoint: Bhagsu Nag Taxi Stand, McLeodganj

Start Time: 10:00 AM (Day 1)

End Time: 2:00 PM (Day 3)

Inclusions:

• Stay: Dome tents on sharing basis
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highly Experienced Guide
• Activities: Trekking & Camping

About the Bhrigu Lake Trek:

Bhrigu Lake is a high-altitude glacial lake, perched at a height of 14,100 ft, thus catering to a perfect place for some mind-blowing adventure and thrills. Bhrigu Lake Trek in Manali is one of the most captivating short treks in the Himalayas and it greets you to witness high altitude alpine lake, the verdant meadows, and everything your heart has yearned for.

The mesmerizing lake has its own majestic beauty as it changes its colors with each passing season. In late summer, it changes its color to emerald green, and in summer it turns its beauty to

blue which is a fascinating sight for the eyes to behold.

This 4-day Bhrigu Lake trek takes you through unparalleled breathtaking views of Seven Sister Peaks, Deo Tibba, Indrasan, Hanuman Tibba, the outstretched Pir Panjal ranges which will soothe your senses and make you content with unbounded natural beauty.

Bhrigu Trek Quick Facts:

• Bhrigu LakeTrek Distance: 26 km
• Bhrigu LakeTrek Height:14,100 ft
• Trekking Gradient: Steep ascent throughout the trail
• Bhrigu Lake Trek Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate 
• Start Point/End Point of Trip: Old Manali
• Start Time/End Time: The trek starts at 10:00 AM (Day 1) and ends around 2:00 PM (Day 4).

Starting time of the trek: 10:00 AM on day 1

End time of the trek: 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM on day 2

Camping Location: Tosh Village, Himachal Pradesh

Indulge your visual senses as you take on the Tosh valley trek, a trail that will take you across the periphery of the mighty Himalayas. A village at the end of the Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Tosh is situated at a height of 7,874ft and leads to the beautiful Pin Parvati Pass. The Tosh River here is an offshoot of the Parvati River, which suckles into the main river at Pulga. An amazing point to note here is that the valley of Tosh is actually home to a tributary of the river Parvati, which also goes by the name River Tosh. This means that as soon as you arrive at a point after the trek to Tosh, where a smaller river stream is feeding its waters into the grand Parvati Valley, you have arrived at the beginning point of Tosh Valley.

Quick Facts:

Temperature Range: The average temperature here ranges between 2°C and 7°C and dips below the freezing point in winters.

Tosh Valley Trekking distance: 6 km

Tosh Trek Difficulty Level: Easy 

Starting and Ending Point: Barshaini, Kullu

Best time to visit Tosh Valley: April to October would be the best time, though pleasant weather can be seen throughout the year. November to February would be a good time to see snow and experience freezing cold.

How to reach the campsite?

You have to report at Barshaini which is the starting point of the trek and it is around 22 km from Kasol. Many local transports and private cabs are available from Kasol to reach Barshaini.

Camp Location: Kheerganga, Barshaini, Himachal Pradesh

Start Point/End Point: The trek starts from Barshaini and ends at Barshaini only.

Start Time/End Time: The trek start at 10:00 AM on day 1 and ends between 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM on day 2.

About the Destination:

Perched at an elevation of around 3,050 meters above sea level, Kheerganga can be reached by hiking the 24 kilometers long picture-perfect Kheerganga Trek. Nestled at one end of the majestic Parvati Valley, this ever-charming destination treats the trekkers’ eyes with its verdant greenery and panoramic skies.

The sacred destination of Kheerganga is home to a holy bathing tank, an age-old shrine of Lord Shiva, and a beautiful hot water spring. Getting to take a bath in the hot water when everything around is shrouded with snow is a dream for all trekkers and Kheerganga Trekking actually rewards the tired trekkers by granting this wish!

About the Kheerganga Trek: 

Kheerganga Trek is one of the most well-known trekking destinations in Himachal Pradesh and is located deep in the Parvati Valley. For this guided trek, you have to meet us in the beautiful hill station Barshaini which is the starting point of this trek. Along your way to Kheerganga Trek, you will explore Rudra Nag village. The scenic hamlets mark a space for the perfect stops and are ideal to delve into the local culture of Himachal Pradesh. 

You can enjoy the local food and cafes on the way. After a while, you will reach the Rudra Nag temple. As you cross the waterfall, the path gets a little steeper and then you will start spotting the blue and yellow huts which indicates the final milestone of the trek i.e Kheerganga top. Upon reaching Kheerganga, you can head straight for the Parvati Kund, or the natural hot water springs, which become all the more attractive in the winters. After reaching the top, you can relax into the alloted camps and enjoy the music session to be organized at the campsite is the cherry on the top.

Quick Facts About Kheerganga Trek:

Kheerganga Trek Distance: 24 km

Maximum Altitude:9,700 ft

Kheerganga Trek Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate 

Electricity: Electricity will be available in Kheerganga campsite.

ATM: Kasol is the last point where you will get ATM.

Trekking Gradient: Steep ascent throughout the trail

This Kheerganga Trek offers two options of stay as mentioned below:

Variant 1
Alpine Tent stay - with common washroom

How to reach the campsite?

You have to report at Barshaini which is the starting point of the trek and it is around 22 km from Kasol. Many local transports and private cabs are available from Kasol to reach Barshaini.

Starting & Ending Point: Panarsa

About Prashar Lake:

With views fit for a king, the trail, leading to the lake region i.e. from the city of Mandi to the little village of Apple village Jawalapur, become private and exclusive to every group that visits. The setting of the campsite in Prashar Lake location is yet another pleasant surprise because of its closeness to the water and its harmony with nature.

Prashar Lake trek (2,730m), which happily takes people to the lake which is completely frozen in the winter and a dazzling beauty otherwise, is considered to be an important trek in Himachal Pradesh. It has in day: 13°C to 18°C , in Night: 0°C to 7°C and maximum altitude 8,956 ft. 

The picture-perfect blue water lake is surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar Ranges in Kullu Valley and it is always kept as a secret in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. 

About the Prashar Lake Trek Package:

Tour will be started from Panaras through driving you will reach Apple village Jawalapur and from where your trek will start for Prashar Lake. You will have camp stay at beautiful lake site for one night and in morning again you will trek till Apple village Jawalapur from there you will drive by to Panarsa. During this trek, you will be going through the charming trails crossing the forests and several small streams. All meals for the Prashar Lake trek is included in the package.

Apart from trekking you will have sightseeing, bonfire at camp and as per weather yoga meditation as well. As you climb the trails up, you will come to meet the local people and it is the best chance to know the indigenous culture closely. Also, once you finish the trek to Prashar Lake, you will have a satisfied heart filled with plenty of beautiful views of Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal, and Kinnaur mountain ranges.

There is a surprisingly beautiful attraction near the lake that is the local temple of Prashar Rishi which has a lot of significant architectural brilliance carved on the walls. If you're in the mood for some outdoor adventure and want these memories to be etched forever, then make Prashar Lake trekking the trek of your choice!

About Camping:

For a decent stay, you can opt for alpine tents with common washroom facilities. All tent offers amenities like mattresses, pillows and clean linen. In the evening enjoy the musical night with a bonfire.

Quick Facts About Prashar Lake Trek:

Trekking distance: 24 km

Maximum altitude: 2730 m

Prashar Lake Trek Difficulty level: Easy To Moderate 

ATM: Mandi is the last point where you will get an ATM

Meals during your Prashar Lake Trek:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner (vegetarian and non-vegetarian) are included in the package

Stay during your Prashar Lake Trek:

Transit Room on the day of arrival in Panarsa for freshen-up
Clock Room to leave any extra stuff at Panarsa
Stay at Prashar Lake (Camping)
Double/ triple/ Quad sharing Basis in camps

How to reach :
Nearest railway station is Shimla and nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, Kullu from there one can reach by bus and private vehicle. One can also take a direct bus from Delhi to Panarsa.

Note: The group package is available on weekends. Private trek can be arranged for more than one adult.

Location: Kasol, Himachal Pradesh

Start Point/End Point: Kasol

Start Time/End Time: Start at 10:00 AM on day 1 and ends at around 1 PM on day 3.

About Kheerganga:

Kheerganga Trek, located at a height of about 9,700 ft, is one of the most well-known trekking destinations. Located deep in the Parvati Valley, it is said that thousands of years back it was abode of Lord Shiva. Kheerganga is nature's paradise, the beauty of the place is spellbinding. The place is famous for its hot water spring and a splendid view of the valley.

About the Trek: 

You can enjoy the local food and cafes on the way. After a while, you will reach the Rudra Nag temple. As you cross the waterfall, the path gets a little steeper and then you will start spotting the blue and yellow huts which indicates the final milestone of the trek i.e Kheerganga top. Upon reaching Kheerganga, you can head straight for the Parvati Kund, or the natural hot water springs, which become all the more attractive in the winters. After reaching the top, you can relax into the allotted camps and enjoy the music session to be organized at the campsite is the cherry on the top.

About Camping:

At Kasol, Well maintained Swiss tents are provided for stay, each having beds, seating area and electric socket. For a comfortable stay you will be offered mattresses on beds, pillows and clean linen. Moreover, for more convenience of stay, attached washrooms have been arranged where you would find a western toilet and washbasin at your service. In the evening enjoy the musical night with bonfire.

At Kheerganga, You will be staying in alpine tents with common washroom to give you the alpine camping experience

Quick Facts:

Trekking Distance: 24 km

Maximum Altitude:9,700 ft

Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate 

Electricity: Electricity will be available in Kasol and Kheerganga campsite.

ATM: Kasol is the last point where you will get an ATM.

How to reach the campsite?

Start Time: 09:00 AM

End Time: 05:00 PM

On this 8-hour hike to Pandu Ropa, a local guide shows you one of the best-hiking destinations in Manali. While it might be challenging, the hike offers some of the best views of Kullu Valley. You'll walk through a forest of pine trees, and then leave the tree line behind as you hike up the alpine meadow. Pandu Ropa sits about 11,480 feet (3,500 meters) above sea level.

About the Trek:
Your day hike to Pandu Ropa begins in the morning in Vashisht, where you meet your guide. Walkthrough the village, and then begin the hike with a grueling climb past green apple orchards and into the dense and fragrant pine forest.

By lunchtime, you will have crossed the tree line and will be hiking up the alpine meadow of Bhrigu. At this height, enjoy a view of Kullu Valley below. If you're hiking between May and early September, you should also enjoy blooming Himalayan flowers, a welcoming sight.

When you reach the very top of Pandu Ropa, take in the 360-degree view of the entire valley and town of  Manali before heading back down.

How to reach?
You can take an auto or private taxi from Mall Road or Bus Station to reach Vashisht.

Meeting Point: Village Prini(AD Hydro Electric Project Gate)

Location: Manali

Start Point/End Point: Old Manali

Start Time/End Time: The trek starts at 10:00 AM on day 1 and ends around 01:00 PM on day 2

About the Solang Valley Trek:

Solang Valley is one of the most gorgeous and adventurous places to visit in Manali. It is located between the Solang village and Beas Kund and offers majestic views of glaciers and snow-capped mountains. This dazzling valley is one of the most picturesque sights in Manali and is located at an average altitude of 8,448 ft above sea level. 

Solang Valley is about 9 km from Manali, and your route will give you views of the Kullu Valley and the Beas river below. The Solang Valley trek takes you through pine forests and over rocky trails, and past the ancient villages of Shang and Burua, where you'll get a glimpse of rural Himachali life. 

In winters, the giant slope of Solang valley is fully covered with snow and makes it one of the best skiing destinations in India. You can also enjoy snowmobile, tubing, and other snow activities. Snow melts during the summer months and the ice slopes will turn into the lush green meadows which makes this place perfect for zorbing, ATV ride, paragliding, and horse riding.

 After reaching the top, you can relax into the allotted camps and enjoy the music session to be organized at the campsite is the cherry on the top. The package includes a packed lunch, dinner and a breakfast

Quick Facts:
Trekking distance: 9 km
Maximum Altitude: 8,448 ft
Difficulty Level: Easy 
Electricity: There will be no electricity at the campsite
ATM: Manali is the last point where you will get the ATM on this trek

How to reach the Solang Valley trek starting point?
You have to report at the camps at Old Manali which is the starting point of the trek and it is around 2 km from Mall Road of Manali. Many local means of transport and private cabs are available from Mall Road to reach Old Manali.

Duration - 4 to 5 hours
Location - 2 km from Kasauli bus stop
Approximate Trekking Distance - 8 to 10 km

Start Time - 9 am

Get to enjoy this wonderful jungle trek for a day. While treading this route you will be often surprised by some spectacular views of pine trees, sweet chirping of the birds and the pleasant sound of some water fall.

The best part of this activity is that you will be led by an experienced guide who is extremely knowledgeable about the region in general and the trek in particular. You will be travelling through some moderately dense forest trail for most of the trek. Do not hesitate in asking the guide the wildest of questions - he would in fact love to explain things in detail. Also, a wholesome meal is included as a part of this jungle trek.

It can be booked by groups of friends, couples or even families. Besides, anybody who is physically fit for this soft trek (mostly above the age of 5 years) can join in.

How to Reach?
Private or public transportation can be availed to reach the starting point which is around 2 km away from the Kasauli bus stop. Parking space is available at the starting point of the trek.

Reporting Point & Time: Bahang Village, Manali at 11 AM

Waterfalls in hills are some of the most scenic sights, with all the green beauty around them and the splashes of water is a treat for the eyes. Close by Manali, the Jogini Waterfalls are one of the most amazing sights that you can see in the area. This trek takes you to an amazing trail leading to Jogini Waterfalls in Vashisht, allowing you click some amazing pictures and spend time admiring the cascading waterfalls. 

The 7 km trek will take about 6 hours to complete and will also include a visit to the Jogini Mata Mandir. The guide will assist you with the trails and he is familiar with the routes of the trek, he will let you know the right places to get the pictures clicked.  One time packed veg lunch will be provided to the trekkers. Arrive back in Bahang Village via the same trail to bring the experience to an end.

Additional information:

Age Limit- 6 to 55 years
Preferred weight limit- 25 KG to 90 KG

Camp Location: Manali

About Lamadugh:
Manali is gifted with a lot of amazing places and one of them happens to be this unique high altitude alpine meadow near Old Manali. Popular as one of the must-visit and most visited places, Lamadugh is famous for offering experiences and views that you may have never witnessed before. 

About Lamadugh Trek:
This day trek to the meadow of Lamadugh starts with your arrival at the meeting point in the Old Manali. You will then start the trek and climb through thick forests of Pine and Deodar to reach your destination. The trek offers majestic views of the many high mountains of the Himalayas that surround the valley like Indrasan, Deo Tibba and the peaks of Bara Shigri glacier.

To enter Lamadugh, you will have to walk on the ridge, the place will open up to this green heaven of a meadow dotted by just one hut and with a variety of flowers. Spend some time here and have your packed lunch, before climbing back down to reach Manali base camp and enjoy overnight camping over there. The next day morning, after having breakfast bring the experience to an end. To make the experience more convenient and helpful, you will have the facility of trek guide, cook, and helpers on the trek.

Lamadugh Trek Quick Facts:
Maximum Altitude: 9,900 ft
Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate 
Electricity: There will be electricity facility available at Manali base camp.
ATM: Manali is the last point where you will get ATM.
Trek Gradient: Moderately Challenging
Landmarks Covered: Manu Temple, Deodar & Pine forests

How to reach?
You have to report at Old Manali which is the starting point of the trek and it is around 2 km from Mall Road of Manali. Many local means of transport and private cabs are available from Mall Road to reach Old Manali.

Himachal Pradesh is a favorite destination for many in the Himalayas. Be it for the love of hills, or the scenic beauty of the valleys with clear blue water of the rivers flowing in them, Himachal Pradesh has an old world and rustic charm with all the modern elements everywhere, hiding in plain sights. A gem of this state is the region of the Kullu Manali, curating some of the best experiences of the region, including some of the most beautiful temples, enthralling rapids of the river Beas, and the best spots for camping in the region. This tour takes you through all three at once, that is a trek to the Bijli Mahadev temple, rafting in the Beas and camping by the riverside. 
About the Activity

• The adventure begins with your arrival at the rafting spot
• Enjoy white water rafting in the river Beas and pass by some of the most beautiful sights on this adventurous ride
• Camp by the riverside and indulge in activites like bonfire
• Take to the famous Bijli Mahadev temple the next day and enjoy the views of the Kullu and Parvati Valleys, and the confluence of Beas and Parvati