The Barshaini to Kheerganga trek is one of the most beloved trekking routes in Himachal Pradesh, known for its breathtaking mountain vistas and soothing natural hot water spring. Furthermore, this trail passes through villages where travelers can meet locals and experience their culture first-hand.
Distance
Kheerganga Trekking Trail in Himachal Pradesh’s gorgeous Parvati valley is one of the premier trekking destinations. Renowned for its hot springs and breathtaking mountain vistas, this trek also provides an opportunity to admire nature’s rich variety of flora and fauna.
The trek starts from Barshaini, a small town with limited lodging options and basic dhabas. Although initially steep, the trail eases as you climb higher; be wary of rocky or muddy surfaces as these could potentially impede progress.
Around 2 kilometers from Barshaini, you will reach an under-construction dam at the confluence of Parvati and Tosh rivers, where there is a dhaba offering refreshments and refilling your water supplies. Shortly thereafter you will reach another waterfall offering restful respite, although extra supplies of water might prove useful should any run out.
After 3 kilometers, the trail becomes increasingly rugged and icy – this will likely be the toughest part of your trek – but once at the summit you will be greeted with spectacular views of snow-capped mountains as well as being able to visit one of many Shiv temples here.
To make the most of this trek, it’s best to start early. Aiming to arrive at your base by 11 am or 12 noon and set out by 3 is ideal. Also consider packing a down jacket and woolen sweater in case it becomes cold at night as well as a light poncho/raincoat as weather conditions can change quickly.
Kheerganga Trek offers more than mountain climbing; it provides an opportunity to rejuvenate yourself in natural hot springs. As you soak in these rejuvenating waters, take in breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains viewed from these incredible springs – an experience not to be missed! Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and make it part of your lifelong memories. Total length of this trek is around 15km from Barshaini to Kheerganga.
Difficulty
Kheerganga is an idyllic spot featuring a hot water spring, temple and campsites for overnight stays. Trekkers flock here because of its scenic beauty and religious significance; many sages and saints in the region have visited Kheerganga on multiple occasions, as it is believed Lord Shiva made some Kheer during meditation here and dropped some onto the ground while doing so, giving rise to its name.
The trail is well-marked and regularly traversed throughout the year, providing safe access for solo adventurers. However, monsoon season (July to September) should be avoided to reduce risks such as landslides and roadblocks; winter trekking should also be avoided to prevent snowfall accumulations.
Although the hike may not be physically demanding, it does require endurance. Therefore, it is advised to begin training your body at least a couple of weeks in advance of embarking on this adventure. Jogging and cardiovascular exercises are great ways to develop this strength needed for such endeavors.
Taken along the Barshaini route, you will first arrive at an unfinished dam on Parvati river before coming upon a dhaba where you can stop for food and take pictures of the valley. From here, a trail going uphill on your left leads directly towards Kheerganga – make sure that you bring enough water with you as this trek can be challenging!
This trek will lead you through the villages of Kalga and Pulga before arriving at a channi set next to a green-hued pond. Within about one kilometre you will arrive at another channi beside a stream, from which leads directly to an oasis-style waterfall where you can refresh with hot water before taking a short break and viewing Kheerganga village.
Ascending further, the trail will take you up towards Buni Buni Pass where you can enjoy magnificent views of surrounding mountains and forests. Depending on your speed and stamina, this trek should take approximately 4-5 hours.
Time
Kheerganga Trekking in the Himalayas is an engaging experience that can be completed within 2-3 days, even for novice trekkers. The ascent is moderate, requiring no prior experience to enjoy this hike along its scenic trail that enchants with picturesque villages and cafes dotted along its course, along with its meandering Parvati river and numerous wooden bridges that promise adventure seekers an exciting hike. Summer months offer ideal temperatures while snow-covered trails during winter can present additional difficulties that necessitate careful planning; therefore it is vital that novice trekkers bring along adequate gear in order to survive this experience safely.
Barshaini, a small village situated near Kasol, serves as the starting point of this trek. Along its hiking route are breathtaking mountain vistas which attract photographers. As it’s highly advised that water bottles and energy-providing foods be taken along on this hike for maximum enjoyment, as well as first aid supplies in case of emergencies during your trek, bring extra supplies just in case an incident arises during your travels.
Once at Barshaini base camp, take some time to rest and eat something before beginning your trek. There is an excellent network of Dhabas, accommodation facilities and small scale provisions stores nearby which may allow for quick purchases before the actual trek starts.
As you follow the trail, you will come upon a bridge which connects Nakthan village to Kheerganga via Kalgha village route. Furthermore, this bridge features a dhaba-style setup where you can enjoy snacks and refreshments before continuing onward.
Kheerganga Spring is said to have been discovered by Guru Nanak Ji’s disciple Mardana. Legend holds that when Mardana dipped rotis into the spring and they began sinking, he asked God for help, believing they would float back up again when their time came – leading him to conclude that those who provide food in God’s name will receive blessings in return.
Camping
Trekking Kheerganga will leave you with memories to treasure forever. Not only is it an effective way to escape city life and connect with nature, it offers you a chance to spend some time among the mountains savouring tranquillity – with Kheerganga’s campsite providing breathtaking views and magical sunrises guaranteed to take your breath away!
Kheerganga should be visited during the months immediately following monsoon rains for maximum enjoyment and lesser crowds on the trail. Be sure to pack enough supplies and prepare for cold temperatures as monsoon rains may make the paths slippery; trekking shoes and appropriate clothing should also be brought along.
As part of your trek, it is essential to bring along a reliable backpack and sleeping bag, enough water, basic first aid items and snacks, and be mindful of how temperature in the mountains may drop at night – therefore carrying warm jackets and woolen socks is also recommended.
If you are new to trekking, it is advisable to hire a guide for the trek. He or she can provide invaluable knowledge of the route as well as assist in overcoming any obstacles encountered along the way. In addition, guides offer invaluable advice regarding preparation for and equipment needed during their hike.
The trek starts from Barshaini village, 16 km outside Kasol. Public buses and private cabs offer transportation here at reasonable costs (roughly INR 1500-1800 for an 8-10 passenger cab), then public transport can easily transport you onward to Kheerganga via various routes from here – for assistance please ask locals!
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