Kheerganga Trek in the unblemished Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh is one of the most desired treks in India. Be it a trekker or a novice, Kheer Ganga gives you the experience of the serenity of nature, the beauty of snow-capped mountains and the excitement of an adventure that will last in your memory long after you have returned down the mountains. A trek to Kheerganga is an experience of a lifetime with beautiful sceneries, a plunge in hot water springs, and a real touch of nature.
About Kheerganga
Kheer Ganga is located in the Parvati Valley at an elevation of 3,050 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level. This journey starts at Barshaini, a small village that is about 20 kilometres away in Kasol, the renowned hill station. It is known by its hot springs which are said to have medicinal powers. Khir Ganga is one of the most beautiful trekking places in Himachal Pradesh due to the calm atmosphere, the green meadows, and the mountains that surround it.
Kheerganga is named after two words: Kheer, which means rice pudding (a sweet dish) and Ganga, which is the sacred river Ganga. The locals think that Lord Shiva meditated here thousands of years ago, and the water of the hot springs was formed when Goddess Parvati took a bath in it.
Kheerganga Trek Distance
The Kheer Ganga trek distance is approximately 12 to 14 kilometres one way, depending on the specific route you take. The trek normally begins at Barshaini, which is reachable by road through Kasol. The hike takes one through thick jungles, over fast-flowing rivers, through bridges and up steep slopes and with every step one gets a new perspective of the beautiful mountains that surround the region.
Kheerganga Trek Height
The Kheerganga Trek height is 3,050 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level. The altitude, though not so high when compared to other Himalayan treks can still have an effect on unacclimatized people. It is a moderate trek which can be done in 2 to 3 days, with one night camp at Kheer Ganga.
Kheerganga Trek Best Time
The ideal months to take up the Kheer Ganga Trek are between the months of March to June and September to November. The weather is fine, the views are clear, and the trails are open during these months. Kheerganga temperature during the day are between 10 °C and 15 °C, and they can go down to as low as 0 °C at night. It should be mentioned that in the monsoon (July-August) the trails may become slippery and dangerous, and the route may be closed because of the landslides.
December to February is a totally different experience, winter. Although the snow-covered land is magnificent, the journey may be difficult because of the heavy snowfalls and the cold weather, which may be below zero. Winter can be a great time to visit, too, as long as you are ready to endure cold weather and the additional effort needed in the snow.
Kasol Kheerganga Trek
Kasol is viewed as the starting point of the Kheerganga trek. This small, beautiful town is renowned because of its relaxed pace, colourful culture and beautiful scenery of Parvati Valley. This is one of the stops that many trekkers make before beginning the Kheerganga trek since it has a wide range of cafes, food joints, and resting places.
A taxi or a local bus can be hired in Kasol to Barshaini, where the Kheerganga trek begins. The journey to Barshaini, a town of one hour’s drive by road, is a part of the journey, and the actual adventure starts here. The Kasol Kheerganga trek offers breathtaking views of the valley, lush green forests, and the sound of flowing water as you make your way up.
Kheerganga Weather and Temperature
Kheerganga weather depends on the season. The summer months are between March and June and the weather is mild and pleasant with temperatures suitable to trekking. During the day the temperature is between 10 o C and 15 °C and at night it goes to 5 °C or below.
The weather is wet and humid during the monsoon season (July to August) and sometimes it rains and the trekking trails become slippery. Parvati Valley is a rain-heavy area that has unpredictable weather in this period.
The temperature of Kheerganga can go down very low as winter sets in. The temperature may drop to below freezing in December to February and it is one of the most beautiful but severe periods to visit. Nevertheless, the snowy sceneries, the icy waterfalls, and cold mountain air provide an original vision of this great place.
Kheerganga Camping
The Kheerganga Trek is an experience that involves camping. The trek itself will require about 5-7 hours one way, depending on how fast you want to hike. The trek will take you a day to the lovely campsite of Kheerganga. This place has the most basic camping amenities where trekkers can take a rest, have a campfire and gear up to hike down the following day. Quite a number of trekkers spend the night at Kheerganga in order to witness the sunrise in the morning.
The Kheerganga camping experience is special, as it allows you to sleep under the stars and wake up to the cool mountain breeze and the majestic views of snow-covered peaks. The hot springs have a number of campsites where trekkers are able to pitch their tents or even stay in some of the guesthouses that are available as accommodation facilities.
The beauty of Kheerganga is that it is simple. The camping site is located in the background of the mountains and the green vegetation, which gives the best escape to the busy urban life.
Kheerganga Hot Springs
Kheerganga trek is one of the most famous treks, and one of the most famous things about the trek is a natural hot spring at the top. The hot spring is believed to be medicinal, and the locals, as well as the trekkers, believe that it has healing powers. The warm, sulfurous water forms a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a trekking day.
It is found in a small temple complex, and one is most likely to find people meditating or sitting in the hot water, enjoying the mountains around. It is the instant of pure enjoyment, especially when the mountain air is cold and the hot water is contrasted to it.
Kheerganga Trek Route
There are two popular routes for the Kheerganga trek:
- Barshaini to Kheerganga: It is the most common route that begins in the village of Barshaini. You trek through the dense forest and cross the bridge over Parvati River and reach to the village of Kalga. The route leading to Kheerganga is rocky and uneven, and it starts after Kalga and moves upwards. It is the shorter route, and it normally takes 5 to 7 hours to be completed.
- Tosh to Kheerganga: The second path begins at the village of Tosh, which is a beautiful village situated above Kasol. The Tosh Kheerganga trail is slightly longer and strenuous, and it takes approximately 7 to 8 hours of trek to Kheerganga. It provides less crowded and untouched scenery of the Parvati Valley.
Things to Carry for the Kheerganga Trek
An effective trek needs good planning and packing. The following are some of the things that you ought to pack before going to Kheerganga:
- Warm clothes (during summer, the temperatures are low at night)
- High-quality trekking shoes
- Rain cover backpack
- Water bottle (it is necessary to be hydrated)
- Snacks (energy bars, dry fruits, nuts)
- Head lamp (during trekking at night)
- Lip balm (against UV rays) and sunscreen
- Personal medication (in case it is necessary)
- First aid kit (basic supplies such as bandages, pain killers, antiseptic wipes)
- Power bank (to charge your phone and camera)
- Camera (to shoot the breathtaking views)
Conclusion
Kheerganga Trek is not a simple hike; it is a trip to nature, spirituality and adventure. It does not matter whether you are attracted to the trek because of the beautiful scenery, the natural hot springs, or just the fact that you want to escape the digital world; this trek will not disappoint you. Kheerganga is one of those few places that help a trekker to get a full experience of trekking with its moderate difficulty, scenic views and the feel of camping under the stars.
Therefore, get your bags, lace up your shoes and jump into the natural beauty and calmness of Kheerganga Trek. Kheerganga has everything to offer to every kind of person, be it a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the lap of the Himalayas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to take the Kheerganga Trek?
The best season is March to June and September to November when the weather is good and the trails are clear.
What is the duration of the Kheerganga Trek and the difficulty level?
It is approximately 12-14 km each way and is of a moderate level, which can be undertaken by a beginner with a basic fitness level.
What is the starting point of the Kheerganga Trek?
The trek is typically initiated at Barshaini village, which is an hour drive away, in Kasol, Himachal Pradesh.
Does Kheerganga have accommodations?
Yes, you can stay overnight or in basic guesthouses by the hot springs at the Kheerganga campsite.
What are the special features of Kheerganga hot springs?
The hot springs are natural hot springs, which are said to be medicinal and healing and are a relaxing dip after the trek.