Kheerganga Trek

Kheerganga Trek Overview

Kheerganga, nestled in the bosom of Mother Nature at the very end of the Parvati Valley, has captivated the hearts of millions with its pristine beauty. It doesn't take much effort to get here, and you'll be rewarded with a dazzling display of nature's bounty. This Kheerganga Trek is remarkable for several reasons, including the starry night sky and the lush greenery during the day, but the hot spring is the highlight. The hike starts in the Parvati Valley at an altitude of 2,950 metres above sea level, is one of the most well-known treks in Himachal Pradesh, and with good reason. Unlike many other Himalayan treks, Kheerganga treks like Kasol Kheerganga trek does not necessitate any prior trekking experience, making it ideal for first-timers. Barshaini, the trek's starting point, is merely a three-hour drive from Manali at a height of 1,189 metres, making it a budget-friendly excursion. From Barshaini, you can take one of three roads to Kheerganga but leaving Kheerganga will take a different path than arriving there, so that you can see more of the surrounding countryside. You'll begin your hike at Barshaini, near the dam on the River Parvati, and make your way to Kheerganga, where you'll spend the night in tents.

You will stop in the villages of Nakhtan and Rudra Nag on the way to Kheerganga. These picturesque villages are great places to rest, take in the scenery, and learn about Himachal Pradesh's unique culture while experiencing its delicious cuisine and quaint cafes. Eventually, you'll reach the Rudra Nag temple, an ancient shrine to Lord Shiva that attracts many devotees every year who become swept up in the place's fervent spiritual atmosphere. As you make our way up to Kheerganga, you pass another beautiful landmark: the Rudra Nag Waterfall. The water here is clean and refreshing, so you can fill up your water bottles here before heading to the adjoining cafe for some hot drinks. Also, there are hot springs at the trail's finish, and they're great for soothing tired muscles and aching joints. The natural water of these hot springs is a milky white colour, and a soak in it is claimed to provide a calming and meditative effect. This journey to Kheerganga is unlike anything else in the world, and you may even run with shepherds tending to their sheep in the surrounding fields.

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Quick Facts of Kheerganga Trek

Maximum altitude: 9700 feet (2956 meters)

Grade: Easy to moderate

Duration: 3 Days and 2 Nights

Trekking distance: The approximate Kheerganga trek distance is around 26 kilometers that includes ascent and descent.

Trail type: Not a round trail as there are three trek routes but a smooth one

Rail head: Joginder Nagar Railway station

Airport: Bhuntar Airport

Snow Season: Between November to February, Kheerganga is blanketed in snow.

Service from: Delhi to Kasol

Kheerganga Trek Starting Point: Kasol Base Camp

Kheerganga Trek Best Time: March to June

Region: Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

Who can participate: Anyone above the age of 7 years can participate in the Kheerganga trek

Short Itinerary for Kheerganga Trek

Day 1: Start your journey to Barshaini on Day 1 by taking a bus or calling a taxi from Kasol. It will take around an hour to make the trip. Distance from Barshaini to Kheerganga is 12 kms, and the hike should take about 5 hours. While hiking, you may take in the otherworldly beauty of the Parvati valley and pay a visit to the temple dedicated to the dragon god, Rudranag. The highlight of the hike is a refreshing dip in a natural hot spring. You may rest assured that this is something you will never forget. You can spend the night under the stars after your hike.

Day 2: Today, you must spiral downward while you reflect on yesterday's wonderful event. It's a 12-kilometre trek yet again. Since the precipitation the previous night was unexpected, it's best to take it slow and steady as you make your way down the next day.

Day 3: After having covered the entire Kheerganga trek distance, on the third day you reach Barshini where you finally kick back in, have lunch, and take it easy. Then, get a cab or a bus from Barshaini to Kasol to finally make your way to Delhi.

Kheerganga Trek Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3

Kasol to Chalal excursion

Altitude: 5180 feet

Distance: 300 meters

Duration: 30 minutes

When you get to Bhuntar/https://www.Kasol, take a deep breath of the clean air and enjoy the sights of the magnificent hills before making your way to the campsite in Kasol using the local transportation system at your own expense.Before reaching Chalal, take some time to wander Kasol's "Little Amsterdam," a collection of streets filled with tourist traps and Israeli cafes.Spend an amazing day in Chalal, and then retire to your tent for the night.Relish a delicious meal while dancing merrily in the glow of the fire.Stay the night in Kasol.

Kasol to Kheerganga via Barshaini

Altitude: 3901 feet – 9700 feet

Distance: 12 kilometers

Duration: 36 minutes – 6 hours

  • Your fascinating Kasol kheerganga trek can begin after breakfast as you independently make your way to the Barshaini.
  • Barshaini is a tiny settlement located close to Kasol, at the meeting of the Parvati and Tosh rivers.
  • Start off your Kheerganga hike with a little rest at one of the many stunning waterfalls along the way, such as the magnificent Rudra Nag.
  • Walk for around 14 kilometres (8.5 mi.) alongside the rushing Parvati River and through the peaceful towns of Kalga and Pulga.
  • When you've made it to the lush Kheerganga meadow, wash away your travel weariness with a revitalising swim in the mythical Parvati Kund.
  • After that, relax by the campfire and stock up on energy for tomorrow's adventures.
  • Spend the night in tents.

Kheerganga to Barshaini (Final descent)

Altitude: 9700 feet- 3901 feet

Distance: 12 kilometers

Duration: 5-6 hours

Enjoy the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas before making your way back to Barshaini using the same path you travelled to get to Kheerganga.Get to Barshaini, where you can take a taxi or bus to Kasol for a fee.During the Kasol kheerganga trek, pack your bags and say your goodbyes to the Himalayas as you return to Delhi.

General Trivia About the Kheerganga Trek

Legends
Facts

Legend has it that Goddess Parvati used the hot water from this spring to prepare kheer for her son Kartikeya. According to legend, Kartikeya spent a considerable amount of time in meditation at this location. Ganesha and Kartikeya were asked to circumnavigate the globe by Shiv and Parvati, according to another mythology.

The elephant-headed god Ganesha made a circle with his parents Shiva and Parvati, insisting that they were his whole world. Kartikeya, on the other hand, set off on a global tour. After some time had passed, he returned to find Lord Ganesha basking in the perks of his status as the favourite child. Kartikeya was outraged and felt betrayed by this. He came to Kheerganga to escape his rage and has been living there ever since.

Deity Parvati visited, bringing kheer to feed to her displeased son. There's also the myth that kheer just magically materialised one day. So the name "Kheer ki Ganga" came to be. In Kalyug, both Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati saw it for what it would become: a cause of conflict. Thus, they prayed to Lord Parshuram, requesting that he drain the kheer. When Lord Parshuram was finished, there was nothing but hot, boiling water and no kheer left. According to legend, the Kheerganga waters also contain healing elements and powers. It is stated that a dip in these waters can help treat a variety of medical conditions.

  • The trek has a maximum elevation of about 2,900 metres (9,600 feet), and the Kheerganga trek distance spans a total distance of roughly 14 kilometres (2 days).

  • This hike is suitable for families with young children. At 2960 metres above sea level, and with a Kheerganga is the ideal hike for novices.

  • Due to the length of the Kheerganga trek (often 2 days), a night spent under the stars is incorporated into the deal. Domed tents, suitable for twin, triple, or quad occupancy, will be provided. The entire camping trip will feel like something out of a daydream.

  • Kheerganga trek is enjoyable anytime of the year. This hilly region, unlike many others, enjoys a mild climate throughout the year, making it a great vacation spot at any time.Bharsaini serves as the trailhead and final destination for the Kheerganga Trek.

Know Before You Go to Kheerganga Trek

Tips For Kheerganga Trek
How to Reach
Trekking Essentials
Trekking Routes
Best Time to Visit
  • This first and foremost rule is Do not litter, and please remember to take home your used plastic bags and any waste for proper disposal.
  • There is no need to worry about running out of oxygen or becoming ill due to the elevation gain, but you should reconsider your plans and head back to Barshaini if you find yourself having trouble breathing or otherwise feeling unwell.
  • Kheerganga has a zero-tolerance alcohol policy, however you may find a cafe where you can enjoy a soft drink or hot beverage.
  • The trail becomes extremely hazardous during the monsoon or after snow has begun to melt. Always use caution, but especially now.
  • Kheerganga is accessible all year round, however the monsoon and winter months are the worst. A phone call ahead of time to find out the current state of things is recommended.
  • When descending, one's full weight goes forward, making one more prone to slip and fall. Don't be in a hurry; take your time walking.
  • While a guide isn't strictly necessary, it's highly recommended if you have the means to do so. Whether it's helping you pitch a tent or pointing out landmarks along the way, they can make your stay here a breeze.
  • If you want to go hiking during the winter, you need a guide.
  • You should avoid bringing any alcoholic beverages or tobacco products near the lake.
  • It is imperative that you keep the atmosphere respectable.
  • Kheerganga is a place where you should probably bring some snacks and chocolates from home because the prices of food there are quite high.

By Air

Kasol's closest major airport is Bhuntar's Kullu Manali Airport. There aren't too many flights to Bhuntar, and even those that do exist aren't always reliable. From here, you can take a taxi or a bus to your next destination. Mohali Airport in Chandigarh is the next (more secure) option, located some 300+ kilometres distant.

By Rail

The Joginder Nagar train station is the closest one., and Kasol is less than a four-hour taxi ride away from here.

By Bus

Overnight buses from ISBT in Delhi make the trip to Bhuntar. Prices for rides on Volvo and Mercedes buses start at INR 1500. It takes about 8 hours by bus to get there from Chandigarh. You may take a bus to Manikaran from Bhuntar, but you'll need to switch buses and get off at Kasol on the route.

By taxi

Of course, road transport is the quickest and easiest method to enter the Parvati Valley, and it takes roughly 12 hours to drive the 565 kilometres (km) between Delhi to Kasol. Make a lot of stops along the way for a relaxing and enjoyable trip. Taxis are easily accessible from any of the city's major hubs, including airports, train stations, and bus terminals, though those departing from the train station should come prepared to negotiate a lower fare. The most convenient way to accomplish this, though, is to reserve a taxi in advance and pay for it. Aside from regular taxis, you may also take advantage of ridesharing services.

Camera/DSLR

Due to the fact that Kheerganga is regarded as one of the most beautiful treks in India, a camera is one of the most important items that you must bring with you. Therefore, it is crucial to have a high-quality camera. If you're a serious photographer planning a trip to Kheerganga for some hiking, you should know that this area has earned the nickname "Heaven for the Photographers." Possessing a high-quality mobile phone is also adequate for taking stunning photographs.

Backpack

Hiking backpacks are essential for the Kheerganga journey, as they provide space for all of your gear and allow you to distribute the weight of the pack more comfortably. Besides, you can save money on porters and mules by hiking with your own gear.

Swiss Knife

Knives are one of the most useful items to bring on a hike since they can be used for so many different purposes, including starting a fire, cutting up meals, treating injuries, making repairs, and even defending yourself. For its versatility and usefulness in a variety of situations, the Swiss Army Knife is a go-to gear for many hikers.

Trekking Boots

You should pack a pair of Quechua hiking shoes because they are the best choice for advanced hikes due to their comfortable design and durability.

Selfie Stick

Anyone who enjoys taking photos of themselves in exotic locations or on long hikes would do well to invest in a quality selfie stick, as it enables images that would have been impossible with only one's own arm. With a selfie stick, you won't need to bring a tripod on your walks.

Essentials

Purchase a sturdy and supportive pair of hiking boots. Get a lightweight but durable backpack that can hold all the gear you'll need for a night out in the wilderness. Bring along things like a warm coat, a spare pair of shoes and socks, a water bottle, some snacks, a first aid kit, a set of toiletries, and a flashlight. If you plan on hiking during the rainy season, be sure to pack a waterproof and windproof jacket.

Barshaini to Kheerganga through Nakthan Village on Route No. 1.

Starting from Barshaini, walk across the bridge and then turn left into the path leading to Nakthan hamlet and Kheerganga. The hike to Kheerganga takes only three to four hours if you use the most popular and direct path. The path follows the Parvati River on its left bank. In order to reach Kheerganga, most trekkers take the well-marked path through Nakthan.

Barshaini to Kheerganga by via Route No. 2, through Kalga Village.

From Barshaini, hike up to the settlement of Kalga by crossing a bridge and then turning right. Alternatively, once you've reached the settlement of Kalga, you can take an alternative trek route to Kheerganga that will eventually connect with the main route. Many hikers get lost along the trip to Kheerganga because it goes through impenetrable trees. This is a less-traveled path to Kheerganga because few people know about it.

Route 3 includes Barshaini to Kheerganga through Tosh Village

Kheerganga may be accessed from both Barshaini and Tosh Village. From Tosh hamlet, this is a separate trekking route that leads to Kheerganga. The Tosh nallah or Tosh river begins near the settlement of Tosh and runs toward Pulga, where it converges with the Parvati. Near the settlement of Nakthan, this path converges with the second Kheerganga road we described before. In general, visitors who spend the night in Tosh and begin their climb the following morning choose this path.

March to June (summer)

If you're considering a Kheerganga hike, the best time to go is any time after the winters, which occur from March to June or after monsoon season. Temperatures on the Kheerganga Trek range from 15 to 22 degrees Celsius from March to June, and from about 3 to 10 degrees Celsius the rest of the year. The months of March through May are ideal if you're a nature lover hoping to see a variety of animals on your hike. If, on the other hand, the thought of snow and wind that will "blow" your mind appeals to you, then the months of October through February make the most sense. However, the low temperatures and high winds during this time of year might make it difficult to hike up steeper slopes or to reach higher elevations. Some roads may be impassable because of the recent snowstorm, adding to the hassle of your journey. The greatest time to go on the Kheerganga walk is from March to May, when the weather is mild, the settlement is quiet but still active, and the views are spectacular. With the weather being warmer, the rivers being calmer, and the slopes being dry, river crossing is easier and more enjoyable than usual.

Why to Go for Kheerganga Trek?

You must set out on the Kheerganga trek because it is one of the easiest treks and anyone above the age of seven years can undertake it without any formal fitness training. Upon reaching the peak at over 9,000 feet, hikers on the Kheerganga walk are treated to stunning views of the parvati valley, as well as great meadows, forested paths with pine trees, a couple of cascades, and traversing settlements along the way. You'll learn from the villagers why Lord Shiva's son Kartikey chose to spend a millennium in meditation in this spot. Kheerganga's magnificent Parvati Kund — the sacred hot water spring — is the perfect place to unwind when the weather outside becomes chilly. Kheerganga is a fascinating example of cultural crossover, with its surprising blend of Indian and Hippie traditions. The sunset view and hiking through the Kheerganga trees are both worth seeing and photographing, and camping beneath the starry sky at the peak of the Parvati Valley is a great way to clear your head and relax.

FAQs of Kheerganga Trek

How Difficult is the Kheerganga trek?

Kheerganga is not a particularly difficult hike, thus it is ideal for beginners older than seven years. However, you should still do some light jogging, stretching, and breathing exercises on a weekly or biweekly basis or on the weekends to get your body ready for the route in preparation. The trek is appealing in every season, any month, whether it's the dead of winter in December or the height of summer in May, and the trekker can select when to go on the journey based on his or her personal weather preferences. It's a quick and simple journey that can be accomplished by anyone, including young children. The Kheerganga trek distance encompasses a total of 24 kilometres (14 miles), and while the terrain does get slightly harsher in some places, the average hiker should be able to complete the walk in two to three days.

Is the Kheerganga trek challenging for first-timers?

If you're a newbie hiker, a Kheerganga trek won't be too challenging. A trek to Kheerganga is a great option if you are a novice hiker or a backpacker searching for a easy journey in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh.

How long does it take to climb Kheerganga trek?

It takes roughly 5-6 hours to trek from start to finish. During your travel, you'll be surrounded by verdant woods and the rushing waters of the Parvati River. If you're hiking the Kheerganga Trek, once you reach the peak you'll need to head to one of the designated camps.

What elevation is the Kheerganga trek?

Kheerganga Trek is among the most well-known treks in Himachal Pradesh. It's in the Parvati Valley, at an altitude of 2,950 metres above sea level, and it winds through some stunning landscapes.

Is it safe for couples to hike the Kheerganga trail?

Kasol and Kheerganga are secure destinations for single travellers and couples. When it comes to hiking, the Kheerganga trek is a must-do. For a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life and the stifling heat, Kheerganga is a welcome destination any time of year, but especially in April.

Does Kheerganga trek have washrooms on the way?

If you merely plan to visit Kheerganga, you do not need to bring tents, as there is ample lodging available. You can get your morning routine done in one of the shared restrooms. In just 5 minutes, you may reach a rejuvenating hot spring that is conveniently located near the campers.

Is Kheerganga worth visiting?

The river Parvati flows beside you as you make your way up, and there are some stunning waterfalls along the way. If you make it to the summit, be sure to spend the night in one of the designated campgrounds. Take advantage of your time in this sacred location by relaxing in the hot springs.

Can we see the Milky Way from Kheerganga?

The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, lush forests, and hot springs. As for stargazing and seeing the Milky Way, it depends on the level of light pollution, weather conditions, and the time of the year.

Additionally, during the peak season, there can be a large number of people visiting the place which might make it difficult to see the stars. So, it is better to check the conditions before planning the trip.

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