Kheer Ganga: All You Need to Know, A Complete Trek Guide 2024
Kheer Ganga: A Trek to Eternal Mystical Dip: Kheer ganga is a beautiful meadow perched at an altitude of 2,960m, as part of the Great Himalayan National Park. Located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, it takes you through warped trails into the woods and is the ideal trekking paradise for beginners.
The trek to KheerGanga is a moderate one, typically taking around 4-5 hours to complete. The trail passes through dense forests, with options for taking a dip in refreshing waterfalls along the way. Once you reach there, you’ll find a small village with basic guesthouses, cafes, and shops. The main attraction here are the natural hot springs, which are said to have medicinal properties. There’s also a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Parvati.
The trek has become overly popular in recent years, owing to Kasol’s reputation as a hippie hangout. While there is a party crowd in Kasol, you will also find adventure enthusiasts testing their strength in trekking.
Things to know before Trekking
- Difficulty: The trek is considered to be moderate. The trail is well-defined but can be steep in some sections. The total distance is around 12 kilometers and the elevation gain is about 900 meters.
- Duration: The trek can be completed in one day, but it’s more enjoyable to do it over two days. This allows you to acclimatize to the altitude and enjoy the scenery at a slower pace.
- Season: The best time to do the Kheerganga trek is from April to June and September to October. The weather is usually pleasant during these times, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Monsoon season (July and August) should be avoided as the trails can become slippery and dangerous. Winter (December to February) can be very cold and snowy, making the trek more challenging.
- Permits: No permits are required for the Kheerganga trek. However, it is recommended to register yourself at the Forest Check Post in Barshaini before starting the trek.
- Accommodation: There are several guesthouses and campsites in Kheerganga where you can stay overnight. The guesthouses offer basic amenities like beds, blankets, and meals. Camping is a great option for those who want to experience the outdoors and save money.
- Fitness: It is important to be in a good physical condition before attempting the trek. Regular exercise for a few weeks before the trek will help you prepare for the physical demands of the hike.
Things to pack
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Comfortable clothes for trekking
- Warm clothes for the evenings (even in summer)
- Rain gear (if trekking during the monsoon season)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- First-aid kit
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Camera (optional)
Best Things to do in Kheer ganga
Hot Springs Bath
While less healthy people are not encouraged to engage in this trek, those who complete it are rewarded with hot springs at the summit. For a relaxing experience, people lie in a hot bath.
Kartikeya Cave
This cave has a marble-like Kartikeya idol, and the temple is also known as the Kartikeya Gupha (cave) temple. There are no signs or other indicators indicating the way to the temple. There is no priest in the temple. As per the Hindu legends, Kartikeya, Lord Shiva’s younger son, meditated for thousand years at KheerGanga, making it a sacred place for Hindus.
Camping Overnight
As you reach the peak, you can check out the options for staying overnight. You will be able to find both inexpensive lodgings as well as budget-friendly options here without any hassle. Spend the night under the blanket of stars.
Chill in Cafe’s
Numerous cafes with excellent European cuisine and a relaxing ambiance can be found. It also has a number of unique cafes where visitors can try out some of the best Israeli cuisines.
Trekking
Trek to KheerGanga consists of narrow and pretty treacherous trails. Yet, reaching the peak is a rewarding experience as one gets to witness the gorgeous scenery of majestic valleys, mountain goats, white lush mountains, and tranquil oak forests covered in snow.
Best Time to Visit Kheer ganga
March to June: This is the most popular time to visit the area, with pleasant weather, lush greenery, and clear skies. The temperatures range from 13°C to 37°C, making it ideal for trekking. You’ll also have the chance to spot wildlife as animals come out of hiding to drink by the river.
September to October: Another good option, with slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. The landscape is still beautiful, and you might even see some early snowfall on the peaks.
July and August: The monsoon season. The trails can be slippery and dangerous, and there’s a higher chance of landslides. However, the waterfalls are at their most impressive during this time, and the valley is lush and green.
November to February: Winter in this area can be challenging, with snow-covered trails and sub-zero temperatures. However, experienced trekkers can enjoy the stunning winter scenery and the solitude of the off-season. Just be sure to come prepared with proper gear and clothing.
How to Reach Kheer ganga
Kheerganga is not accessible by road. The trek to Kheerganga starts from Barshaini which can be reached from Kasol.
- Reach Delhi: There are many ways to reach Delhi depending on your location and preferences. You can fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). Trains and buses are also readily available from many parts of India.
- Reach Kasol: From Delhi, you can take an overnight bus to Bhuntar, a small town in Kullu valley. From Bhuntar, you can take a local bus or taxi to Kasol.
- Reach Barshaini: There are local buses and taxis available from Kasol to Barshaini. Barshaini is a small village located at the starting point of the Kheerganga trek.
- The trek from Barshaini to Kheerganga is about 9-10 kilometers and takes 4-6 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level. There are three routes you can take:
- The shortest route: This route goes through Nakthan and Rudranag villages. It is the most popular route and offers beautiful views of the Parvati Valley.
- The longer route: This route goes through Kalga village. It is less crowded but can be more challenging.
- The alternative route: This route starts from Tosh village. It is the longest route but offers a more gradual ascent.
Is Kheerganga Trek difficult?
The best time to visit Kheerganga trek is between April and November, when the weather is pleasant and the trekking conditions are favorable. The trek is of moderate difficulty and can be completed by both beginners and experienced trekkers.
Can Kheerganga be done in 1 day?
Yes, the Kheerganga Trek offers the perfect trail for beginners and takes just about 5-6 hours to reach the top. 4. Can Kheerganga trek be done in a day? If you want to undertake the entire trek and come back in one day, it is possible if you leave really early in the morning since the ascent takes about 5-6 hours.
What is Kheerganga Trek famous for?
Popular for the hot springs and scenic views of the Himalayan mountains, Kheerganga is situated in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Located about 22 km away from the pilgrimage town of Manikaran, trekking through the dense forests and a bath in its hot springs are a refreshing experience.
Is Kheerganga Trek banned?
Trekking is open but camps in kheerganga are banned. So eother you have to get back or stay near by kheerganga like near by nathen village.
Is Kheerganga safe for girls?
Yes, it is very Safe for a Girl to go Kheerganga but you need to smart in Some day to day things : Should know how to Bargain.
What is the best time to visit Kheerganga?
The trekking to Kheerganga can be done anytime throughout the years. However, the best time for Kheerganga trekking is between September to November and then April to June, as the temperature remains moderate and pleasant during these months.
How high is Kheerganga pass?
Located at a height of around 2,956 metres or 9,700 feet above the sea level, the Kheerganga Trek is amongst the most beautiful treks in Himachal Pradesh, in addition to being a natural paradise. This trek is a short, easy trek, which is great even for beginners.
How much does Kheerganga Trek cost?
Kheerganga Trek cost between ₹1000 to ₹2000 including guide, accommodation and meals. The cost of the package may vary according to the pickup point and number of people in a group.
Are there washrooms in Kheerganga?
If you intend going only th Kheerganga, no need to carry tents, as there is plenty of accommodation available. One can stay for as less as 200 per person for a night. There are common toilets where you can do your morning job.
Is alcohol allowed in Kheerganga?
Kheer Ganga is known for hot water stream which flows beneath the temple of Lord Shiva. Temple is highly revered hence alcohol is not permitted in Kheer Ganga however other kind of Intoxication are in surplus. There is well made pool to bathe in the hot water stream and water is really hot.
