Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas is the Parvati Valley – a paradise for nature lovers. It has quite a few trekking routes lined along small streams, rivers, and hot water springs. And if there’s one trek that we think you should try here, it is the Kheerganga Trek.
It starts from Kasol to reach Kheerganga via Barshaini. What makes this trek unique is its comparatively short distance, panoramic views of the valley, and the stunning Kheerganga hot water spring at the end of the trek!
If this mere description got you excited, we think it’s time for you to set out on this adventurous trek!
Kheerganga Trek: Distance, Legend, Best Time, Tips, And More
Information About The Kheerganga Trek
The Kheerganga trek begins from the small village of Kasol nestled in the lush greenery of the Parvati Valley. This small village is a haven for those looking for a quiet retreat in nature’s lap – there’s hardly any disturbance here! Many travelers specifically visit Kasol for this quiet and peace that’s truly unmatched.
From Kasol, trekkers journey to Barshaini, another small village near Kasol and then make their way to the Kheerganga spring.
This journey from Barshaini to Kheerganga is about 12 to 13 kilometers (km) long (one-way) and can take about 5 to 6 hours depending on your speed.
You can either drive or trek from Kasol to reach Barshaini and then continue your journey towards Kheerganga.
However, worry not, the trek is quite moderate in difficulty. While it is recommended that you come physically prepared for the trek, you’ll not have to traverse through extremely harsh weather conditions, or rocky, dangerous terrain. The journey is pretty straight-forward and most importantly, promises spectacular views!
Legend Associated With Kheerganga
Now that was about the basic information about the trek, but did you know that Kheerganga has an interesting legend associated with it?
It is believed that Kartikeya, son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, chose to meditate in peace in Kheerganga.
Whenever Goddess Parvati would visit him, she’d cook kheer (milk-based rice pudding) in the hot water spring nearby. It is believed that this is why the spring has milky white water and hence the name ‘Kheerganga’.
While this is just a mythical tale, the water of the spring is actually boiling hot throughout the year and has a milky white complexion to it!
Kheerganga Trek Best Time To Visit
The best time to set out on the Kheerganga trek is either between March and June or mid-September and mid-November.
These brief two-month windows are when the weather is the most favorable for a trek in the Parvati Valley. Skies are clear, there’s hardly any rain or snow during these periods, and most importantly, the trek routes are open for adventure!
During the winter months of late-November to February, most roads in the Parvati Valley end up being covered in snow. On the other hand, July to early-September is when the valley receives ample rainfall – making trekking unfavorable.
So, we’d recommend visiting the valley for trekking and other activities during either March to June or mid-September to mid-November.
How To Reach Kasol
Whether you begin your Kheerganga trek from Kasol directly or Barshaini, you’ll first need to make a halt at Kasol. Luckily, the village is well-connected to major cities and towns in Himachal Pradesh as well as those outside it. Here’s how you can reach Kasol via air, road, and rail:
By Air
The closest airport to Kasol is the Kullu Manali Bhuntar Airport, located about 39 km via the Manikaran Road.
The airport operates limited and sometimes delayed flights to nearby airports, so it isn’t the most reliable option of reaching Kasol.
Although, if you’re reaching Kasol via air travel, you can get a shared or private taxi from the airport to reach Kasol.
By Rail
Joginder Nagar Railway Station is the closest railway station to Kasol, located about 124 km away! Limited trains halt here as it has narrow-gauge tracks, so your second best bet is to deboard at the Pathankot Railway Station. It is located about 358 km away from Kasol and we’d recommend getting a bus or a private taxi to reach Kasol.
By Road
Road travel is the best way to reach Kasol, thanks to a good network of roads and bus availability from major cities nearby. You can self-drive from major cities like Delhi, Shimla, and Chandigarh. On the other hand, you can also get regular buses from these cities to reach Kasol.
Trekking Tips For Kheerganga Trek
- The trek is of moderate difficulty, so prepare yourself physically to traverse through mildly challenging terrain, including steep slopes and flat meadows.
- Do not attempt to complete the trek in a single day even though it takes about 5 to 6 hours one way. This is because you wouldn’t want to end up making your way through the dark after sunset – it can be extremely dangerous. Many trekkers and trek organizers spend a night at Kheerganga, and we too would recommend that!
- While altitude sickness isn’t a major concern in this trek, we recommend staying hydrated throughout the trek. If you feel nauseous, giddy, or unwell, descend down to lower altitude immediately and seek primary medical help.
- Wear heavy-duty trekking shoes instead of sandals, sneakers, or clogs. Heavy-duty and comfortable trekking shoes will only reduce the pain in your feet and make your journey smoother.
- Carry adequate water, sunscreen, torch light, and a first-aid kit without fail along with all your trekking essentials. Also, remember to fully charge all your electronic devices before you set out on the trek.
Kheerganga Trek: A Brief Overview
Kheerganga trek distance (from Barshaini): 12 to 13 km
Base camp: Either Kasol or Barshaini
Duration: 5 to 6 hours one waY
Difficulty: Moderate
Average altitude: 2,960 meters/9,711 feet
Kheerganga trek best time: March to June/mid-September to mid-November
Summing Up
We hope you found this Kheerganga trek guide super useful!
This trek is one of the most beautiful treks in the Parvati Valley, beginning from the picturesque village of Kasol and ending with breathtaking views of the Kheerganga hot water spring.
So, if this got you excited, it’s time to mark your calendars and pack your bags for an unforgettable adventure in the Parvati Valley!
FAQs
Is Kheerganga A Difficult Trek?
No, Kheerganga trek is of moderate difficulty. With a little physical training before the trek, you can easily complete the trek.
How Long Is The Kheerganga Trek?
Kheerganga trek’s distance is about 12 to 13 km one way from Barshaini. It can take you about 5 to 6 hours to reach Kheerganga from Barshaini.
Can A Beginner Do Kheerganga Trek?
Yes, a beginner can do Kheerganga trek. However, we recommend undergoing physical training for the trek. You can practice walking daily, improve your endurance and resistance training, and practice breathing exercises daily at least a few days or a week before the trek.
