The trek is known for its beautiful natural scenery, hot springs, and scenic views of the Himalayas. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Kheerganga trek, from how to get there, what to pack, and what to expect on the trail.
Getting to Kheerganga:
The nearest town to Kheerganga is Kasol, which is approximately 22 km away. You can reach Kasol by taking a bus from Bhuntar, which is the nearest airport and railway station. From Kasol, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach the trailhead at Barshaini. Best time to visit:
During the monsoon season (July-August), the trail can be slippery and difficult to navigate.
Trekking essentials:
Here’s a list of things you’ll need to carry with you on the trek:
Trekking shoes: It is essential to wear comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes that provide good grip and support on rocky terrain.
Warm clothing: Even in the summer months, the temperature at Kheerganga can drop significantly at night, so it’s important to carry warm clothing like a jacket and a pair of thermals.
Trekking poles: Trekking poles help to reduce the strain on your knees and provide additional support while walking on steep inclines and descents.
Backpack: A backpack with a capacity of 30-40 liters is ideal for carrying your essentials like water, snacks, extra clothing, and toiletries.
Water bottle: It’s important to stay hydrated during the trek, so carry a reusable water bottle with you.
First aid kit: A basic first aid kit with essential medicines and bandages is important in case of any injuries or emergencies.
How to Reach Kheerganga:
The base camp for the Kheerganga Trek is the village of Barshaini, which is located around 22 km from Kasol. Kasol is well-connected to major cities in Himachal Pradesh and can be reached via bus or taxi. From Barshaini, the trek to Kheerganga begins.
Trek Route:
The trek to Kheerganga begins from the village of Barshaini and passes through the beautiful Parvati Valley. The route involves a steep ascent through a dense forest and a few small villages. The trek passes through several small waterfalls and streams, which providre freshing break from the climb. The final stretch of the trek involves a steep climb up a series of steps to reach the Kheerganga campsite.
Camping at Kheerganga:
The Kheerganga campsite is located at an altitude of around 2,960 meters and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The campsite has several options for camping, including tents and basic huts. There are also hot springs nearby where trekkers can relax and rejuvenate.
The trek:
. The trail winds its way up the mountainside, passing through dense forests of pine and oak trees. The initial part of the trek is relatively easy, but as you climb higher, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging.
After walking for a few hours, you’ll reach the Rudra Nag waterfall, which is a beautiful sight to behold. From here, the trail becomes steeper and you’ll need to negotiate a series of switchbacks to reach Kheerganga.
As you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the hot springs of Kheerganga, which are believed to have healing properties. Take a dip in the hot water and relax your tired muscles. There are also a few cafes and guesthouses at Kheerganga where you can stay overnight and enjoy the scenic views of the Himalayas.
The next day, you can either return to Barshaini or continue on to Tunda Bhuj, another popular trekking destination in the Parvati Valley.
Important things to keep in mind:
Always carry a sufficient amount of water and stay hydrated throughout the trek.
The trail can be slippery and rocky, so it’s important to wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip.
The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so carry warm clothing even during the summer months.
Food and Water:
There are several small shops and dhabas along the trekking route where trekkers can buy food and water. The Kheerganga campsite also has several food stalls that serve hot meals and snacks. However, it is recommended to carry some snacks and water bottles along the trek as the prices of food items increase as the altitude increases.
Essential Items to Carry:
Some essential items to carry for the Kheerganga Trek include comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothes, a raincoat, a torch, sunscreen lotion, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit. It is also advisable to carry a trekking pole to provide support during the steep ascent.
Permits and Fees:
Trekkers need to obtain a forest permit to enter the Kheerganga Trek. The permit can be obtained from the forest office in Barshaini or from the checkpoint at the start of the trek. The permit fee is around INR 100-150 per person.
Safety Tips:
It is important to take proper safety precautions while trekking to Kheerganga. Some safety tips include:
Trek with a certified trekking company or experienced guide.
Follow the trail markers and do not take shortcuts.
Carry enough food and water for the trek.
Avoid trekking alone, especially at night.
Wear comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes to avoid injuries.
Respect the environment and do not litter.
The trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, waterfalls, and hot springs.