Hello, I’m Somanshu Tomar, and I recently embarked on the Kheerganga Trek with two friends. This well-known 14 km trek in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh offers an unforgettable adventure. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your own journey to this mesmerising destination.
Getting There
Begin your journey by taking a Volvo bus from Delhi to Kasol. From Kasol, you have a few options: take a bus or cab to Barshaini, or rent a scooty/bike. We opted for a scooty, parked near Pulga Dam, and started our trek from there. The road from Kasol to Barshaini is decent enough for scooties, and renting one offers flexibility since bus services are limited and cabs can be expensive.
Must-See Spots
As you travel from Kasol to Barshaini, make a stop at the Manikaran Gurudwara. Once you begin the trek, you’ll pass the Raghunath Temple, traverse a beautiful forest, and explore the ancient Nakthan and Kalga villages. At the top of Kheerganga, you’ll find a Sulphur water hot spring and the Mahadev Temple. Each step of the trek reveals new wonders, from cascading waterfalls to the serene vibes of the Parvati Valley.
Hidden Gems
Throughout the trek, we encountered numerous waterfalls, each more enchanting than the last. The top of Kheerganga offers an unparalleled sense of peace. The Pin-Parvati Valley trek also starts from Kheerganga, adding an extra layer of adventure for avid trekkers.
Food and Accommodation
You can find food up to the halfway point of the trek. At the top, numerous tents offer comfortable stays for 800-1000 INR per person, including dinner and breakfast. Some tents even provide Wi-Fi. We stayed in one of these tents, enjoying the basic yet cozy accommodations.
Essential Packing List
Pack light but smart. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Good trekking shoes
- Essential clothes (including a raincoat)
- Goggles
- Towel and underwear (for the hot spring bath)
- Glucon-D
- Water bottles (refill from waterfalls)
- Bluetooth speaker (download songs in advance as there’s no network after 3 km)
- Sunscreen
- Warm clothes (depending on the season)
Trekking Tips
There are three routes to Kheerganga: via Tosh, Kalga, and Nakthan villages. We took the forest route via Kalga for its adventurous path and descended through Nakthan Village. The Kalga route is longer and more challenging, while the Nakthan route offers limited shade from the sun.
Budget Breakdown
- Delhi to Kasol bus: 1000-1500 INR
- Kasol to Barshaini: Bus – around 50 INR, Cab – 300 INR per person, Scooty – 500-700 INR per day
- Stay at Kheerganga: 800-1000 INR per person
Important Tips
Stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and be prepared for the lack of mobile network after the first few kilometres. Carry enough cash as there are no ATMs on the trek. The trek is of moderate difficulty, so ensure you’re physically prepared.
Overall Experience
Both times I’ve done this trek, it has been nothing short of amazing. The waterfalls, the night sky, and the sulphur hot spring create an unforgettable experience. If you love mountains, you should definitely check out this trekking route. It’s just an overnight drive from either Chandigarh or New Delhi. Combine it with visits to Manali and Kasol for a 5 to 7-day adventure.
Final Thoughts
The journey from Barshaini village, near the dam, is incredible. The trek takes about 5 to 6 hours, passing through beautiful places, towns, rivers, and waterfalls. The last stretch, where you climb a mountain surrounded by tall trees, is the most exciting. You’ll find small eateries and washroom facilities along the way. At the top, there’s a small temple and a hot spring where you can take a dip.
Kheerganga is an incredible trek for travelers who enjoy exploring. While the trek can be challenging, it’s packed with excitement. The view from Kheerganga is breathtaking, and staying in camps there offers the ultimate mountain-top experience. Bring cash, pack light, and don’t forget your first aid kit. I highly recommend this trek! Enjoy your journey!For more travel stories visit: https://sowl.in/stories/ .
