Kheerganga is a beautiful trekking destination located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. The trek to Kheerganga takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes, including lush green forests, gushing waterfalls, and scenic mountain ranges. The trek is famous for its hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties and attract a lot of tourists every year. Here’s everything you need to know about the Kheerganga trek:
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Kheerganga is from March to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it easier to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. During the monsoon months of July and August, the region experiences heavy rainfall, which can make the trek challenging and risky.
How to reach:
The nearest airport to Kheerganga is the Bhuntar airport, located at a distance of around 32 km. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the base camp of the trek.
The nearest railway station is in Pathankot, which is around 150 km from Kheerganga. From Pathankot, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach the base camp.
If you are traveling by road, you can take a bus or a taxi from Delhi or Chandigarh to reach Bhuntar, from where you can take another taxi or a bus to reach the base camp.
Trek difficulty level:
The Kheerganga trek is considered to be a moderate-level trek, with a total distance of around 12 km. The trek starts from Barshaini, and it takes around 4-5 hours to reach Kheerganga. The trek route is well-marked and easy to follow, but there are some steep climbs and descents that can be challenging for beginners.
Permits and Fees: There is no permit required for the Kheerganga Trek. However, there is a small fee for camping at Kheerganga.
Safety Tips: It is advisable to trek with a guide, especially if you are a beginner. It is also important to follow basic safety precautions like carrying enough water, staying on the trail, and not venturing out alone.
Other Attractions: Apart from the trek, there are several other attractions in the Parvati Valley, including the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, the Tosh village, and the Kasol market.
Accommodation:
There are several options for accommodation available at Kheerganga, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury tents. You can choose to stay in a guesthouse, which costs around INR 500-1000 per night, or in a tent, which costs around INR 1000-2000 per night.
Food and water:
There are several small eateries and cafes on the trek route that offer a variety of snacks and meals. You can also carry your own food and snacks, as there are several spots on the trek route where you can stop and rest. It is advisable to carry your own water bottles, as there are no reliable sources of drinking water on the trek route.
Things to carry:
A sturdy backpack
Comfortable trekking shoes
Warm clothes and a waterproof jacket
A hat and sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion and insect repellent
Personal medication (if any)
Water bottle and snacks
Tips:
Start early in the morning to avoid the rush and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Carry enough cash, as there are no ATMs or banks available at Kheerganga.
Respect the environment and do not litter on the trek route.
Follow the trekking rules and regulations, and do not disturb the wildlife or natural habitats.
Conclusion:
Kheerganga Trek is a popular trek in Himachal Pradesh, India, known for its natural hot water springs and stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek is moderately challenging, covering a distance of approximately 12 km and taking around 5-7 hours to complete. It starts from the village of Barshaini and goes through lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and steep mountain trails. The trek is best done during the months of May to November, avoiding the monsoon season. It is recommended to carry sufficient water, food, and warm clothing, and to be physically fit.
Overall, Kheerganga Trek offers a memorable experience for nature and adventure enthusiasts.The main attraction of Kheerganga is the hot springs that are believed to have healing properties. There are several accommodation options available at the top, including tents, guesthouses, and cafes. It is important to carry sufficient food, water, and warm clothing as the weather can be unpredictable. The best time to visit is from April to November.
