Kareri Lake Trek, Himachal Pradesh

The Dhauladhar mountain range, soaring dramatically above the Indian plains, is quite simply breathtaking. These majestic mountains are home to deep spiritual traditions and ancient cultures. On the outer ranges of the Hindu Kush, our Ekno Travels trek to Kareri Lake is a memorable introduction to the mighty Himalayas.

We’ll trek from the seat of Tibetan Buddhism, McLeod Ganj, to Kareri Lake – a high altitude grazing ground hidden deep in the Dhauladhar mountains. Along the way we’ll trek through Gaddi villages, observing these nomadic herders who have depended on the mountain slopes for centuries. We’ll stop for the herds of sheep and goats as they move up and down the mountains and explore the lovely villages nestled between the cliffs.

Our Ekno Travels trek from McLeod Ganj to Kareri Lake is not to be missed and is accessible for a range of trekking experience levels.

TOUR DATES	April – October
TOUR COST	A$1700 per person twin share * No fixed departure – price based on minimum 2 people
DURATION	9 days, 8 nights
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS	Journey to McLeod Ganj, home of the Dalai Lama Trek through the stunning natural landscape Explore local villages and immerse yourself in unique cultural experiences Camp at beautiful Kareri Lake
TOUR ROUTE	McLeodGanj – Kareri Village – Lioti – Kareri Lake – Bagga – Guna – Triund – McLeodGanj

*Trekking route can alter due to adverse weather conditions

MAP

Day 1

Arrive McLeod Ganj

Welcome to McLeod Ganj! You will be met by our representative and escorted to your guesthouse, before heading out on a tour of this fascinating North Indian hill station. We’ll visit the temple of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, the Namgyel Monastery; as well as the Tibet Museum. Spend the afternoon with your guide and porters learning about the route and making final preparations for the trek.

Overnight: Guesthouse, McLeod Ganj

Day 2

McLeod Ganj to Kareri Village

We’ll depart McLeod Ganj (at an altitude of 1780 metres) by early morning and begin our trek. We’ll walk for 11 km, approximately five hours, ending up at Kareri Village Forest Rest House at an altitude of 2175 metres. Along the way we’ll pass through thick pine forests and traditional villages before enjoying the spectacular sunset views of the valley below. Overnight: Camping, Kareri Village Forest Rest House

Day 3

Kareri Village to Lioti

Today we’ll trek from Kareri Village to Lioti (altitude of 2915 metres). The trail passes through luscious forests of oak, rhododendron and pine, and follows flowing river streams. After a six-hour trek we’ll reach Lioti, a stunning alpine grassland with beautiful sweeping views.

Overnight: Camping, Lioti

Day 4

Lioti to Kareri Lake

This morning we’ll trek to Kareri Lake (altitude of 3200 metres), which will take approximately four hours. The trail follows a deep river gorge, with plenty of soaring mountain views. Kareri Lake is a common grazing spot for Gaddi shepherds as they head for the high passes. Enjoy camping in a beautiful meadow next to Kareri Lake and soak in the pristine mountain air.

Overnight: Camping, Kareri lake

Day 5

Kareri Lake to Bagga

Today we’ll rise early so we can catch the sunrise lighting up the high mountain peaks of the Baleni Pass as well as the valley below. After that we’ll trek for approximately four hours as we take the steep descent from Kareri Lake to Bagga, located at an altitude of 2500 metres.

Overnight: Camping, Bagga

Day 6

Bagga to Guna

Today we’ll trek from Bagga to Guna (altitude of 2600 metres). Our journey will take approximately six hours, and will pass through dense pine forests with a steep descent.

Overnight: Camping, Guna

Day 7

Guna to Triund

This morning we’ll trek from Guna to Triund (altitude of 3350 metres). Triund is a popular sightseeing destination with stunning views of McLeod Ganj and the valley below it. After approximately five hours we’ll reach Triund, which has plenty of roadside tea stands, perfect for a hot glass of chai.

Overnight: Camping or guesthouse, Triund

Day 8

Triund to McLeod Ganj

Today weaves us back to where we started at McLeod Ganj. We’ll take an easy four-hour trek down from Triund, arriving by mid-afternoon. We’ll freshen up in our guesthouse before heading out to dinner. Treat yourself at one of the many fantastic restaurants the town has to offer – from Indian and Italian to Korean or traditional Tibetan, McLeod Ganj has food for all palates.

Overnight: Guesthouse, McLeod Ganj

Day 9

Depart McLeod Ganj

Our tour ends after breakfast. We hope to see you again for your next Ekno Travels experience.

INCLUDES
Met on arrival by an Ekno representative

Services of an English-speaking guide for the duration of the tour

2 nights’ accommodation with breakfast

6 nights’ trekking accommodation in a tent, including all meals and a porter for 7 days

Transfers on arrival and departure

Entrance fees as per the itinerary

EXCLUDES
Personal expenditure such as drinks, laundry service and souvenirs
Tipping
Compulsory insurance of any kind
Transport to and from Mcleod Ganj

TOUR DATES

TOUR COST

DURATION

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

TOUR ROUTE