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Kasol Kheerganga Trek: Best Time, How to Reach and Trek Highlights

March 2, 2025March 2, 2025Posted in TravelTagged adventure, hiking, hills, Himalayas, Kasol, kasolkheergangatrek, Kheerganga, mountains, Travel, trek, trekkingLeave a comment

Himachal Pradesh is famous for its scenic beauty, and the trekking trails that take you through dense forests are one of them. This state has a hidden gem, Kheerganga, which is a paradise for nature and adventure junkies. The trails of Kasol Kheerganga Trek take you through natural hot water springs, picturesque villages, and dense forests.

Situated in Parvati Valley, Kheerganga is one of the off-beat places in Himachal. With a distance of 12 to 13 kilometers, an easy to moderate trek is ideal for experienced and beginner trekkers. Here is a complete guide for the Kasol Kheerganga Trek, which includes details about the best time, where to stay, and the trek route.

Best Time for Kasol Kheerganga Trek

Kasol Kheerganga Trek can be done any time of the year. However, the most suitable time for the Kheerganga Trek is from September to November and April to June. The temperature during these months is pleasant and offers an ideal trek experience. It is advised to avoid trekking during the monsoon months, between July and August, because this region receives heavy rainfall, making the trail slippery and increasing the chances of casualty. Road blockage and landslides are common during this time. If you are fond of snow and want to experience trekking in the snow, then you can do the Kasol Kheerganga Trek in December.

How To Reach

By Road: The most convenient way to reach Parvati Valley is by road. Kasol is around 531 kilometers away from Delhi, and you can get there by bus or car in 11 to 12 hours. This road trip from Delhi to Kasol will reward you with incredible views on the way. One can find many Volvo buses running from Delhi to Kasol.

By Air: Flying from Delhi to the nearest airport to Kasol is one of the easiest and fastest ways to reach here. The closest airport to Kasol is Kullu Manali Airport in Bhuntar. This airport is around 31 km away from Kasol. However, Bhutnar has limited flight connectivity; the best alternative for this is Mohali Airport in Chandigarh, which is around 300 km away. From Chandigarh, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Kasol.

By Train: Being a small and remote town in Himachal Pradesh, Kasol is not connected to other cities by railways. However, you can take a train to the nearest Jogindar Nagar Railway Station, which is around 4 km away. However, Joginder Nagar Railway Station is not connected to major Indian cities, so you can take a train to Pathankot Junction. Then, from Pathankot, you can take a train to Jogindar Nagar.

Upon arrival, one can hire a taxi to Kasol or take a local bus from the Jogindar bus stand. Alternatively, some tourists also choose to reach Chandigarh first by train and take a bus or taxi for the rest of the road trip to Kasol.

Kheerganga Trek’s Highlights

Kheerganga has several things that attract trekkers with its beauty. Here, we have mentioned a few highlights of the Kasol Kheerganga Trek. Do check it out.

1. Natural Hot Water Springs

Situated amidst natural surroundings, the Kheerganga trek provides a chance to take a dip into the natural hot water springs in Parvati Kund. You can wash away all your tiredness from the trek and restore your body’s energy. Situated at 13000 feet in height, the Hot water spring is one of the Prime attractions of the Kasol Kheerganga Trek.

2. Remote Villages

While trekking towards Kheerganga through the dense forests, you will also come across small remote villages like Pulga and Kalga. By visiting these villages you will get a chance to learn about the traditions and culture of people residing in these villages.

3. Camping

Camping at Kheerganga under the sky full of stars in Parvati Valley is a great experience for all nature lovers. Sitting under the sky full of twinkling stars is truly a treat to your eyes. While camping here, you can stay awake the entire night and observe these glittering stars.

4. Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara

Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara is one of the popular pilgrimage sites for Sikhs and Hindus. You can visit the Gurudwara and explore Manikaran Town. You can seek blessings at the Gurudwara and visit hot water springs.

5. Parvati Valley

Parvati Valley is one of the most scenic locations in Himachal Pradesh, and it is renowned for its stunning views. You spend some time here and admire the beauty of the valley. There are many places to visit near Parvati Valley, including the waterfalls, trekking trails, and hot water springs amidst the mountains covered in snow.

Tips for Kasol Kheerganga Trek

Trekkers must check the weather conditions before going for the trek and pack according to the weather conditions.
There are no ATMs near Parvati Valley, so trekkers must carry enough cash. The last working ATM is available in Kullu or Bhutnar.
Plan a trip for 4 to 5 days so that you can also explore the nearby attractions along with the Kasol Kheerganga Trek.
Carry a first-aid kit to be used in case of emergency.
Pack warm and comfortable winter clothes because the temperatures can drop anytime and nights can be chillingly cold.
Do carry a camera to capture the best sights while trekking.
Do not litter on the trail, and maintain cleanliness.

FAQ’s

Q1. What is the distance and duration of the Kasol Kheerganga Trek?

The total distance you will cover on Kasol Kheerganga Trek is around 12 to 13 kilometers, and it will take 6 to 7 hours to get to the top. The trek starts from Barshaini, so you must reach Barshaini from Kasol.

Q2. What should I wear for the trek?

Trekkers must wear comfortable clothes and sturdy trekking shoes with a good grip, which must also be water-resistant.

Q3. Is the Kasol Kheerganga Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Kasol Kheerganga Trek can be easily done by beginners with good physical fitness. First-time trekkers must go for a guided trek.

Conclusion

So, are you ready for the adventure? If so, pack your bags and embark on this magical journey to Kheerganga. Taking you through hot water springs, dense forests, and remote villages, the Kasol Kheerganga Trek provides a relaxed escape from your busy schedule.

Watch This Epic Journey to Himalayas – Goecha La to Ladakh

April 2, 2018August 24, 2025Posted in TravelTagged drone shots, goechala la, Himalayas, ladakh, mountains, timelapse, trekking, video11 Comments

Journey to Himalaya is an epic adventure of our Goecha La trek, Sandakphu, Spiti Valley and Ladakh Journey. Himalaya drone shots, time lapses of Goecha La, Sandakphu, Spiti Valley and Ladakh were used to create this video.

If you enjoy this video please do like, comment and share.

Author Bio:

Debarup, the founder of Top Five Buzz, is a passionate photographer and a traveler. He loves mountains and wants to explore every curve of it. His dream is to travel around the world to enjoy the nature in every part of this mighty earth.

This Spiti Valley Time Lapse Video Shows Why India is Truly Incredible

March 11, 2018April 2, 2018Posted in TravelTagged himachal, Himalayas, mountains, spiti valley, time lapse, time lapse video, timelapse, travel photography10 Comments

Spiti Valley is the paradise for all mountain lover from India. It is one of the most searched places after Ladakh.

My wife and I visited this heavenly place in September 2017.

It was my dream to create another video of Spiti Valley after my Ladakh Time Lapse video. So here it is, this timelapse video of Spiti Valley cover a part of Kinnaur (Sarahan, Sangla, Chitkul, Kalpa, Nako) and Spiti Valley which includes Mudh Village, Langza, Kibber, Komic, Kaza, Chandra Tal.

If you enjoy the video, please do like, comment and share this with your friends.

Watch This Incredible Spiti Valley Time Lapse

For more information regarding our Spiti Valley journey read: When I Forgot My Soul in Spiti

Author Bio:

The Daily Post Photo Challenge: Relax

December 3, 2016December 6, 2016Posted in Photo challengeTagged Himalayas, Lachung, mountains, North Sikkim, photo challange, plunge, relax, swim, waterfalls12 Comments

waterfalls, north sikkim, lachung, himalayas

Imagine, you are riding through rugged mountain roads. It’s almost noon and you are tired of a long, bumpy ride. As you take a U-turn, you see a waterfall and discover a small pool at the bottom. With warm sun above the head, taking a plunge in the cool water would be the best way to relax and rejuvenate yourself. Do you agree? 🙂

In North Sikkim, you will find plenty of such waterfalls with naturally formed pools. Although I didn’t get a chance to take the splash, the sight of local boys playing in the water was pretty relaxing, too.

Published in response to The Daily Post Photo Challenge: Relax.

The Daily Post Photo Challenge: Pure

June 12, 2016June 12, 2016Posted in Photo challengeTagged Bhutan, Buddha, Buddha dordenma, hills, morning, mountains, Photo challenge, pure, Thimphu9 Comments

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“We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves.”
~ Buddha

This week’s photo challenge theme, pure, transports me to that beautiful morning in Thimphu. The morning I had a glimpse of Buddha, pure and sublime, overlooking the hills and the city.

Published in response to The Daily Post Photo Challenge: Pure.

Sikkim Diaries: Visiting a Piece of Heaven Called Gurudongmar

May 27, 2016April 16, 2018Posted in SikkimTagged exotic landscapes, gurudongmar, hills, Himalayas, Lachen, lake, mountain desert, mountains, nature travel, North Sikkim, North sikkim tour plan, Sikkim tour235 Comments

Gurudongmar was on my bucket-list since 2011 when I planned with my friends for North Sikkim travel for the first time. Unfortunately, due to a devastating earthquake in Sikkim in the same year, we had to cancel our trip. Nevertheless, visiting Lake Gurudongmar was my destiny. I finally made it after 5 long years. 🙂

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, at approx. 17,800 feet above the sea level, the holy lake is about 3.5-hour drive from Lachen, a small village where tourist can halt for the night.

We started early, at 4 am. It was a terribly bumpy ride on the rough mountain roads till the army check post after Thangu, which was our only halt during this hectic journey.

The road gets better from here, offering a smooth ride, which is a rarity in North Sikkim. 😛 😀

As we were nearing the lake the landscapes changed drastically without any trace of trees and plants. It looked more like a desert with dune-like formations visible at the horizon. Exalted and overwhelmed, one of our group members commented that the landscapes reminded him of Ladakh. 🙂

Whatever it might look like, the mountain desert looked outlandish and fascinating to me. I was spellbound with the sights of such exotic landscapes.

We saw herds of yaks grazing on the fields, totally indifferent about the tourist vehicles that were running past them.

Finally, we reached our destination, Lake Gurudongmar, at 7:30 am. That’s how the holy lake looked like in the morning light – still, calm, and unspoiled.

The first few moments were speechless in silent admiration to such divine beauty.

There is a temple on the bank. I didn’t find time to enter as I was too busy in absorbing the beauty of nature all around.

And of course, posing for the camera with the lake on the backdrop. 😉

However, amid this clean and clear environment, the taxis/rental cars were the direct agent of air pollution. These rental cars are so poorly maintained in Sikkim. I wonder why the local administration is so indifferent about them while it is so strict about keeping Gangtok clean.

In addition, there are the “litterbugs” who never forget to throw off their disposable belongings anytime, anywhere. If you zoom into the picture (below) you’ll see the discarded water bottles. Is it not the responsibility of the visitors, too, to keep the environment clean?

Our Tour Plan

We were lucky to have the weather in our favor during our tour from May 7 to 12, 2016. Our North Sikkim tour included 2-night 3-day Lachung-Lachen package. We stayed at Hotel Meylong in Gangtok and booked the Lachung-Lachen tour package through our hotel. You can check out my review of Hotel Meylong on TripAdvisor for more information.

Our North Sikkim tour plan was like this –

Day 1: NJP (New Jalpaiguri) to Gangtok (We reached NJP from Kolkata at around 9am by Padatik Express)

Day 2: Gangtok to Lachung (Night stay at Lachung)

Day 3: Visit Yumthung Valley and Zero Point – Back to hotel at Lachung for lunch – drive to Lachen (Night stay at Lachen)

Day 4: Visit Lake Gurudongmar and drive back to hotel for lunch – return to Gangtok by evening

Day 5: Gangtok sightseeing

Day 6: Visit Changu (Tsomgo Lake), Baba Mandir and Nathu La pass and return to Gangtok

Day 7: Start for NJP after lunch and reach there by 7:30 pm and board the train to Kolkata

Some Important Info

Please note that if you are an Indian citizen, you should carry your Voter ID card/PAN card/driving license as photo identity proof along with 4-5 photocopies of the same document and an equal number of passport size photographs for Lachung-Lachen tour. You may need to submit these documents to get the travel permit. However, you cannot rent cars on your own and arrange the tour directly. You have to go via a local tour operator or your hotel’s travel desk. They will arrange everything for you.

Finally, don’t forget to pack an umbrella if you are visiting in the May-June season. You may need it anytime. 🙂

To be continued…

McKinley to Denali: Visiting America’s Most Talked About Mountain

September 9, 2015September 9, 2015Posted in TravelTagged Alaska, Denali, hipmunk blog, McKinley, mountain peak, mountains, Tailwind9 Comments

This post was posted by The Hipmunk on Hipmunk’s Tailwind blog on September 4th.

In advance of his three-day trip to Alaska, where he will advocate for more urgent action on climate change, President Obama officially changed the name of the tallest mountain in North America. Known to Alaskan natives for centuries as Denali (a native word meaning “the high one”), the 20,237’ peak was renamed after assassinated President William McKinley in 1917. Obama may get to experience Alaska in the company of renowned survivalist Bear Grylls (who is not, in fact, a bear), but there’s plenty of adventure to be had without him.

Approaching The Last Frontier

When the destination is America’s last great frontier, getting there is ideally half the fun. The most populated place in Alaska is Anchorage, a 6-hour drive from even further-isolated Fairbanks, and a 21-hour drive from the state capitol, Juneau. Air travel is the cheapest and most efficient way to get to Anchorage. Home to roughly 300,000 people, Anchorage is a fabulous hub for outdoor excursions. Lodging exists for every budget, from backpackers looking for an affordable bed and a shower, to couples seeking a cozy B&B, or posh patrons in pursuit of pillows and pampering. Fairbanks, roughly 120 miles north of Denali National Park, also has a great variety of lodging options available, including a number of B&Bs and more luxurious spots.

More adventurous types can charter an air-taxi to Talkeetna, roughly halfway between Anchorage and Denali National Park. Travelers interested in a more leisurely wilderness journey have many train and cruise-ship options available. Juneau, the state’s capital, may be 10 times less-populated than Anchorage, but it’s the 2nd-largest city by area in the US, and its location in the islands of the Alaskan panhandle makes it a popular destination for cruise ships.

Venture Into The Last Frontier

While known for its native culture, most visitors flock to the state for one thing: pristine, unimpeded wilderness.

Denali National Park
Only the most intrepid and experienced mountain climbers tackle the namesake summit at the heart of this National Park, but more casual visitors can experience the grandeur of the park from the (mostly unpaved) road system, either by bike, car, bus, or (bravely) on foot.

Wildlife Tours
Native wildlife is a huge draw to the Last Frontier, including moose, caribou, eagles, salmon, beluga whales, and bears (polar, brown, and black (not Grylls)). Native plants and flowers flourish here as well.
The Midnight Sun
Nearly a third of Alaska lies above the Arctic circle, so during summer months, daylight hours extend nearly round the clock. A winter visit will be much less crowded, cheaper (and much colder), and opportunities to see the Northern Lights abound. Visit in March, and witness the start of the Iditarod, the 1,000-mile dogsled race unlike anything else in the United States.

The raw beauty and awe-inspiring spread of Alaska is unparalleled below the 49th Parallel. It has drawn in recluses, dreamers, adventurers, and sitting Presidents. Names could never do it justice, but it’s easier than ever to make a visit!