Introduction

If you’ve ever dreamt of stepping into a land of snow-capped mountains, sparkling lakes, and meadows that stretch as far as the eye can see, then Himachal Pradesh is the place for you! This beautiful state in northern India is home to some of the most incredible trekking destinations, like Kereri Lake, Beas Kund, Bhrigu Lake, Prashar Lake, Hampta Pass, Triund, and Chopta Chandrashila. Whether you're an experienced hiker or someone looking for a peaceful escape into nature, these treks will fill your heart with adventure, wonder, and stunning views.

Kereri Lake

Kereri Lake is tucked away in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Imagine high mountains, green meadows, and a sparkling lake surrounded by nature. The lake sits at a lofty height of about 2,934 meters (10,500 feet), meaning it’s pretty high up in the Himalayas! The area around the lake is full of stunning views, tall pine trees, and, if you're lucky, some friendly wildlife. It feels like stepping into a fairy tale!

 

How To Get There

Getting to Kereri Lake is an exciting journey, and here’s how you can do it step by step:

1. Start from Shimla: First, you’ll want to get to Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. It’s a popular place to visit and is easy to reach by bus or train. If you're traveling from Delhi, you can take an overnight train or a bus to Shimla.
2. Travel to Sangla: Once you're in Shimla, you need to head to Sangla, which is the starting point for the trek to Kereri Lake. You can take a bus or hire a taxi. The drive to Sangla takes about 7 to 8 hours, and you’ll see some breathtaking views along the way, with valleys and rivers dancing beside the road!
3. Start the Trek: After reaching Sangla, you’re ready to start your trek to Kereri Lake! The trek usually takes around 4 to 5 days, depending on how fast you walk and how many breaks you take. You’ll pass through lovely villages, climb up hills, and enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s a journey filled with discovery!

 

Best Time To Go

• May to June: Spring is a fantastic time to visit! The weather is warm, and flowers bloom everywhere. You can see colorful wildflowers and hear the cheerful songs of birds. It’s perfect for taking pictures and exploring!
• September to October: If you miss spring, autumn is another wonderful time. The air is fresh and cool, and the leaves change colors, painting the hills in shades of red, orange, and gold. Just like in a painting!

 

 Beas Kund

The Beas Kund Trek is located in Himachal Pradesh, a state in northern India known for its beautiful mountains and lush valleys. The trek starts from Solang Valley, which is just about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) from Manali, a popular hill station. The Beas Kund itself is a small, shimmering glacial lake situated at an altitude of around 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). It’s said to be the source of the Beas River, which flows through the valley below.

Special places

1. Solang Valley: This is where your adventure begins! Known for its adventure sports like paragliding and zorbing, you can soak in the beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains and lush greenery before you start your trek.
2. Gulaba Village: On your way, you’ll pass through the charming Gulaba Village. It’s a great place to take a break, enjoy some local snacks, and watch the villagers go about their daily life. You might even meet some friendly mountain dogs!
3. Beas Kund: Once you reach the lake, take a moment to enjoy its beauty. The water is crystal clear, surrounded by magnificent peaks like Hanuman Tibba and Indrasen Peak. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic and some fun photos!
4. Mountain Views: Throughout the trek, keep an eye out for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The sight of the snow-covered peaks is simply awe-inspiring!

How to Reach Beas Kund

1. Start from Manali: First, you’ll need to reach Manali. You can do this by taking a bus or car from nearby cities like Chandigarh or Shimla. The journey is beautiful, with scenic views along the way.
2. Head to Solang Valley: From Manali, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Solang Valley. The ride takes about 30 minutes and is super fun as you wind through the mountains.
3. Trek to Beas Kund: Once you reach Solang Valley, the trek to Beas Kund usually takes about 4-5 hours. The trail is well-marked and passes through lush meadows, rocky paths, and even some streams. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey!

Best Time to Visit

• May to June: This is the start of summer, and the weather is pleasant and sunny. The snow is melting, and the landscapes are vibrant and green. Perfect for hiking and exploring!
• July to August: This is the monsoon season, and it can rain a lot. While the mountains look lush and green, trekking can be tricky because of slippery trails. It's better to avoid this time unless you're really adventurous!
• September to October: As summer fades, the weather becomes cooler and more stable. The views are clear, and you might even see some autumn colors in the leaves. This is a wonderful time to visit as the skies are usually blue and bright!

 

Bhrigu Lake

Bhrigu Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake located in Himachal Pradesh, India. It’s nestled in the Kullu district, not far from the famous town of Manali. The lake is situated at an altitude of about 4,300 meters (14,100 feet), which means you’ll be trekking high up in the mountains! This makes the scenery absolutely breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks all around and lush green meadows below.

Special Spots Along the Trek

As you make your way to Bhrigu Lake, you’ll discover some truly special spots that make this trek even more exciting:

1. Gulaba: This is where your adventure begins! Gulaba is a small village where you can find stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place to get your energy up before you start your trek.
2. Bhrigu Meadows: About halfway to the lake, you’ll come across Bhrigu Meadows. It’s a beautiful green expanse filled with colorful flowers, and it’s perfect for taking a break and enjoying a snack. Imagine running around in a field filled with daisies!

How to Reach Bhrigu Lake

Getting to Bhrigu Lake is an adventure in itself! Here’s how you can make your way there:

1. Start from Manali: The nearest major town is Manali, which is easily accessible by bus or car. You can take a bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to reach Manali.
2. Head to Gulaba: From Manali, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Gulaba. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Manali, and you’ll enjoy the scenic ride through the mountains.
3. Trek to Bhrigu Lake: The actual trek begins at Gulaba. It usually takes about 3 to 4 days to reach Bhrigu Lake and back, depending on your pace. The trail is well-marked, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to embark on the Bhrigu Lake Trek is from May to October. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect during these months:

• May to June: Spring and early summer are wonderful times to visit. The weather is mild, and the flowers are in full bloom, creating a colorful landscape. It’s perfect for enjoying nature!
• July to August: This is the monsoon season, and while the landscape looks lush and green, the trails can be slippery and dangerous due to heavy rain. It’s best to avoid trekking during this time.
• September to October: This is another fantastic time to visit. The weather is crisp, and you can enjoy the stunning autumn colors. The views of the mountains are often clearer, making it a great time for photography.

 

 Prashar Lake

Prashar Lake is located in Himachal Pradesh, India, around 50 km north of Mandi, a town you might have heard of. What’s cool about this lake is that it’s up in the mountains, sitting at an altitude of about 2,730 meters (8,960 feet). The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and right next to it is a beautiful temple dedicated to the sage Prashar, who, as legend says, meditated near the lake.

Special Spots to See

Now, besides the stunning lake itself, there are a few spots that make this trek extra special:

1. The Floating Island: Prashar Lake has a little floating island on it! This small patch of land moves around the lake, and no one can predict where it’ll be when you arrive. It’s like the lake has its own secret!
2. Prashar Temple: Built in the 13th century, the temple is a piece of history with its unique pagoda-style architecture. It’s made entirely of wood, and the intricate carvings are something you’ll want to take a closer look at.
3. Panoramic Views: When you reach the top, you get to enjoy a 360-degree view of the snow-capped Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal, and Kinnaur mountain ranges. On a clear day, you can spot peaks like Hanuman Tibba and Indrasan.
4. Stargazing: If you’re camping overnight, get ready for one of the most amazing stargazing experiences. Since there’s little light pollution up here, the night sky is filled with stars—perfect for spotting constellations.

How to Reach Prashar Lake

Getting to Prashar Lake is fairly simple, and it’s one of the reasons this trek is so popular, even for beginners. Here’s a step-by-step:

1. Start from Mandi: Mandi is the closest town, and you can get there from major cities like Delhi or Chandigarh via bus or private taxi. From Delhi, it’s about 475 km and takes around 10-12 hours by road.
2. Mandi to Baggi Village: Once you’re in Mandi, your trek starts from a small village called Baggi, which is about 25 km away. You can take a local taxi to get there.
3. The Trek Itself: The trek from Baggi to Prashar Lake is about 7-8 km. It usually takes around 4-5 hours depending on your pace. The trail is a mix of forest paths, open meadows, and mountain ridges, so you’ll get a little bit of everything!If trekking isn’t your thing or if you’re short on time, there’s also a road that takes you almost all the way to the lake, leaving just a short 30-minute walk.

Best Time to Visit

Now, when’s the best time to trek to Prashar Lake? Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

• Summer (April to June): The weather is pleasant, with blooming wildflowers and clear skies. This is the perfect time if you like warmer temperatures and green surroundings.
• Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, beautiful golden landscapes, and fewer tourists. This is another great time to visit, especially if you love quiet, peaceful treks.
• Winter (December to February): If you love snow, this is the time to go. The lake and surrounding area turn into a winter wonderland, and the trek becomes more challenging but rewarding. Just be prepared for cold temperatures and snowy trails.
• Monsoon (July to August): I’d recommend avoiding this season. The trails can get slippery, and there’s a risk of landslides, which makes trekking a lot more danger.

 

Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass is located in the Himachal Pradesh region of India, which is known for its gorgeous landscapes. Specifically, it sits between the valleys of Kullu and Lahaul. The pass is at an altitude of around 4,270 meters (14,000 feet), which means you’ll be trekking high up in the mountains! The scenery is breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows.

Special Spots Along the Trek

Now, let’s talk about some of the special spots you can see while trekking to Hampta Pass:

1. Jobra: This is where your trek begins! Jobra is a small village surrounded by forests of pine and cedar. It’s a great place to get a taste of the local culture and start your adventure with a fresh mind.
2. Chika: As you trek, you’ll come across Chika, a beautiful campsite by the river. It’s perfect for a cozy night under the stars. You can enjoy the sound of the flowing water and the rustling leaves.
3. Balu Ka Ghera: This is another campsite that feels like a magical meadow! It’s surrounded by mountains and has plenty of space to play and explore. You might even see some friendly yaks grazing nearby.
4. Hampta Pass: The highlight of your trek! When you finally reach the pass, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world. The views are simply spectacular, with snow-capped mountains all around. Make sure to take lots of pictures!
5. Shea Goru: After crossing the pass, you’ll descend into the Lahaul valley, where you’ll find Shea Goru. It’s an incredible spot known for its vibrant landscapes and unique rock formations.

How to Reach Hampta Pass

Getting to the Hampta Pass Trek is quite straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Start from Manali: The nearest major city is Manali, which is a popular tourist destination. You can reach Manali by bus, car, or even by train to nearby stations like Joginder Nagar.
2. Get to Jobra: From Manali, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Jobra, which is about 30 kilometers (19 miles) away. This is where your trekking adventure will begin!
3. Start Your Trek: Once you arrive in Jobra, you’ll start trekking through beautiful landscapes and charming villages. Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey!

Best Time to Visit

The best time to go on the Hampta Pass Trek is during the summer months, from June to September. Here’s why:

• June to July: The snow has melted, making the trails accessible. You’ll get to see lush green meadows and blooming wildflowers. The weather is generally pleasant, perfect for trekking!
• August: It can be a little rainy, but if you’re up for an adventure, you might enjoy the misty landscapes and cooler temperatures. Just make sure you’re prepared for some mud!
• September: This is a fantastic time to trek as the weather is clear, and the autumn colors start to appear. You can see the mountains in all their glory, making for stunning views.

 

 Triund trek

Triund is a beautiful hilltop located in the Dharamshala region of Himachal Pradesh, India. It sits at an altitude of about 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level. The trek takes you through lush green forests and offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountain range on one side and the valleys below on the other. Just imagine standing there with a cool breeze, surrounded by mountains!

Special Spots Along the Way

While trekking to Triund, you’ll discover some amazing spots:

1. Magic View Point: This is a fantastic place to stop and take pictures! You can see the entire valley below and the mountains around you. It feels like you’re on top of the world!
2. Laka Got: As you continue your trek, you’ll reach Laka Got, a small meadow that’s perfect for resting. It's a great place to have a snack and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
3. The Triund Top: Finally, when you reach Triund, you’ll find a flat area perfect for camping and picnicking. The sunset here is spectacular! Make sure to have your camera ready to capture the golden rays as they paint the sky.
4. Sunrise at Triund: If you wake up early, you can enjoy a magical sunrise. The sun slowly rises behind the mountains, creating a breathtaking view that you won’t forget!

How to Reach Triund

Getting to Triund is quite easy, and here’s how you can do it:

1. Start at Dharamshala: The nearest town is Dharamshala, which is well-connected by road. You can reach Dharamshala by bus or taxi from cities like Delhi or Shimla.
2. Go to McLeod Ganj: From Dharamshala, head to McLeod Ganj, a charming town known for its Tibetan culture. You can take a local bus or a taxi. It’s only about 10 minutes away!
3. Begin Your Trek: The trek to Triund starts from McLeod Ganj. You’ll find a trail that leads you through beautiful forests filled with tall trees and chirping birds. The trek is around 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) long, and it usually takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach the top, depending on your pace. Don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy the scenery!

Best Time to Visit

The best time to go on the Triund Trek is between March and June or September and December. Here’s why:

• March to June: The weather is pleasant, and the flowers are blooming. It’s a great time to enjoy the greenery and the fresh air. You can also camp at the top and enjoy the cool nights!
• September to December: After the monsoon, the skies are clear, and the air is crisp. The views are absolutely stunning during this time. Just be careful if you go in December, as it can get a bit chilly!

 

Chopta 

Chopta is a charming little village located in Uttarakhand, India, and it’s often called the “Mini Switzerland of India.” Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, this hidden treasure sits at an altitude of about 2,680 meters (8,790 feet). It’s surrounded by tall, majestic mountains and dense forests, making it the perfect starting point for your trek to Chandrashila Peak.

Special Spots Along the Way

The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is not just about reaching the peak; it’s about the incredible sights you’ll see along the way! Here are some special spots you shouldn’t miss:

1. Chopta Village: This picturesque village is your starting point. Here, you’ll find quaint cottages, lush green meadows, and friendly locals who are always ready to greet you with a smile.
2. Tungnath Temple: As you trek towards Chandrashila, you’ll come across Tungnath, which is the highest Shiva temple in the world, standing at about 3,680 meters (12,073 feet). It’s a beautiful, ancient temple surrounded by stunning views. Don’t forget to take a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere!
3. Chandrashila Peak: This is the highlight of your trek! When you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath peaks. It feels like you’re on top of the world, surrounded by nature’s beauty!

How to Reach Chopta

Getting to Chopta is an adventure in itself! Here’s how you can reach this lovely village:

1. Start from Dehradun: The nearest major city is Dehradun. You can take a train or a bus to Dehradun if you’re coming from somewhere else.
2. Travel to Rudraprayag: From Dehradun, take a bus or hire a taxi to Rudraprayag, which is about 160 kilometers (100 miles) away. This journey takes around 5-6 hours.
3. Reach Chopta: Finally, from Rudraprayag, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Chopta. This last stretch is around 30 kilometers (19 miles) and takes about 1-2 hours.

Make sure to pack some snacks and enjoy the scenic views along the way!

Best Time to Visit

Now that you’re excited about your trek, you’re probably wondering when the best time to go is. The ideal time to visit Chopta for the Chandrashila Trek is from March to May and September to November.

• March to May: During spring, the weather is pleasant, and the flowers are in full bloom. The days are warm, but it can get chilly at night, so don’t forget to pack a warm jacket!
• September to November: This is autumn time, and the weather is clear and cool. The views are stunning, and the air is crisp. It’s the perfect time to see the majestic mountains!

 

Conclusion

This guide takes you through the magical treks of Kereri Lake, Beas Kund, Bhrigu Lake, Prashar Lake, Hampta Pass, Triund, and Chopta Chandrashila. From high-altitude lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks to charming village treks with breathtaking mountain views, each destination offers a unique adventure. Perfect for nature lovers and trekkers of all levels, this comprehensive exploration covers how to get there, special spots to see, the best time to visit, and what makes each trek special.