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$1500 per person twin share * No fixed departure – price based on minimum 2 people
DURATION	9 days, 8 nights
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS	Visit the temple of His Holiness The Dalai Lama Kareri Lake Trek
TOUR ROUTE	McLeodGanj – Kareri Village – Lioti – Kareri Lake – Bagga – Guna – Triund – McLeodGanj

*Trekking route can alter due to adverse weather conditions

MAP

Day 1

McLeod Ganj

Welcome to McLeod Ganj! You will be met by an Ekno representative and escorted to your guest house, 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: Guest house, McLeod Ganj

Day 2

Kareri

We’ll depart from McLeod Ganj (at an altitude of 1780m) by early morning and begin our trek. We’ll walk for 11 km, approximately 5 hours, ending at Kareri Village Forest Rest House, at an altitude of 2175 m. Along the way we will 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

Lioti

Trek from Kareri Village to Lioti at 2915 metres (approximately 6 hours). The trail passes through luscious forests of oak, rhododendron and pine and follows flowing river streams. Lioti is a stunning alpine grassland with beautiful sweeping views and we will make our camp here tonight.
Overnight: Camping, Lioti

Day 4

Kareri Lake

Trek from Lioti to Kareri Lake at 3200 metres, which will take approximately 4 hours. Kareri Lake is a common grazing spot for Gaddi shepherds as they head for the high passes overhead. The trail follows a deep river gorge, with densely forested and soaring mountains rising to the other side. Enjoy camping in the beautiful meadow next to Kareri Lake and soak in the pristine mountain air.
Overnight: Camping, Kareri lake

Day 5

Bagga

Rise in time for the sunrise, it’s worth it. You will be able to witness the sun light up the high mountain peaks of the Baleni Pass as well as the valley below. Today we’ll trek for approximately 4 hours as we take the steep descent from Kareri Lake to Bagga, located at 2500 meters.
Overnight: Camping, Bagga

Day 6

Guna

Today we trek from Bagga to Guna at 2600 meters. Approximately 6 hours of trekking through thick pine forests with a steep descent.
Overnight: Camping, Guna

Day 7

Triund

Trek from Guna to Triund at 3350 meters. Triund is a popular location with stunning views of the valley and McLeod Ganj below it. In Triund you may wish to eat in one of the small restaurants or drink a hot chai (tea) from one of the many roadside tea stalls. Approximately five hours of trekking today.
Overnight: Camping or guest house, Triund

Day 8

McLeod Ganj

Today weaves us back to where we started, McLeod Ganj. Enjoy an easy four hour trek back and arrive by mid-afternoon. Freshen up and treat yourself at one of the many fantastic restaurants the town has to offer – from Korean or Indian to traditional Tibetan, McLeod Ganj has food for all palates.
Overnight: Guest house, McLeod Ganj

Day 9

McLeod Ganj

After breakfast our arrangement ends. We hope to see you again soon your next Ekno Travels experience.

INCLUDES
2 nights accommodation in Mcleod Ganj
2 breakfasts in Mcleod Ganj
Tour of Mcleod Ganj, Bhagsu, Dharamkot and Naddi villages
6 nights trekking accommodation in a tent, all trekking food and a guide and one porter for 7 days

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