Manali & Kasol Kheerganga Trek

Overview

About Manali and Kasol Kheerganga Trek

Surrounded by the lofty Himalayas of the Pir Panjal ranges, the trail of Manali to Kasol and from there to Kheerganga, is a paradise in itself. With every nook and corner of the trek, nature unfolds its majesty in a way that trekkers are left awe-sturck by the ruggedly beautiful landscape of the area.

Starting from the beautiful town of Manali, the town surrounded by these folded giant snow clad mountain peaks - is the beginning of a journey where the daunting mountains stand as a teaser of the adventures themed for you. The ruffled path will be marked by fresh deep forests and winds along the pristine waters of the Parvati River as you tread forward. The cascading white noise of the river blends with the soft sibilance produced by thick cedar and pine forests to form a lulling symphony.

Kasol is a simple trek with the surroundings which are dotted with authentic villages and terraced fields allowing a peek into the everyday life of the mountains. The toughest part, yet you can easily climb your way up to Kheerganga, is the steep and windy ascent that winds its way through rhododendron and oak forests.

The higher you get, the more dramatic the landscape becomes, and you soon feel dwarfed by the sheer bulk of the peaks and glaciers above. The air becomes crisp and thin while the wind whistles through the mountains, only heightening the feeling of elation. The trail ends at one of the holiest places in Kheerganga, a natural hot spring which appears continuously accompanied by ice capped peaks almost touching the sky.

Camping under the stars in the beauty of the Himalayas is something that remains in your heart like an eternal memory. The Manali to Kasol and Kheerganga trek at the same time can be a journey that will challenge you physically but will also feed your soul as it unfolds some of nature's magnificent beauty.

Places to Visit in Manali and Kasol Kheerganga Trek

• Hadimba Temple- This ancient Temple is dedicated to goddess Hadimba, set in the midst of deodar forests, it is famous for its architecture and peaceful surroundings.
• Solang Valley- Solang Valley offers thrilling adventure activities like Paragliding, zorbing and skiing (in winters). It is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and mesmerizing views of snow capped peaks adds to the attractions.
• Old Manali- Explore the vibrant streets of Old Manali, known for its bohemian atmosphere, aesthetic cafes and local handicraft shops. It's a wonderful destination to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine.
• Manikaran Gurudwara- Located near Kasol, Manikaran is popular for its hot springs and a sikh revered pilgrimage site Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib. The area also has Temples and a beautiful riverside setting.
• Rudra Nag/Shiv Gufa- The mouths of the ghastly-looking cave disgorge strong sulfuric hot springs, considered to possess some medicinal properties. Step inside this site in the dramatic Himalayas and enter a revered place of worship.
• Kheerganga Trek- The final climax, when heavy trekking behind you meets natural hot water pools in between high mountains secluded in snowfall. Unparalleled Rainforest Views For The Mind and Soul.
• Chalal Village- This tiny hamlet on the banks of Parvati is where the stunning trek begins. There are peaceful campsites on the banks of the rushing river that are a welcome relief to the weary trekkers.
• Kasol- A chill town with Israeli settlements, the place provides stunning valley views, trout camps and baked goodies.
• Malana Village- Isolated from the rest of the world, one of the oldest villages in India still stuck with their arcane traditions and infamous parochial hashish production. Himachal's pastoral legacy through a window.
• Grahan Village- A picturesque hamlet on the way to Kasol that leaves you awestruck with its idyllic cafes, gushing streams and dark pine groves. A couple of easy nature trails deliver some of the most epic valley views in the state.
• Bijli Mahadev Temple- a temple built in a rock in the old ages, reachable as a 16 km trek from Kullu. Mystery shrouds this location which draws both pilgrims and trekkers.
• Pulga Village- It is a picturesque hippie village located on the banks of the Parvati River- a small village with breathtaking valley views, trout camps, and decorated eateries offering fascinating opportunities for trekker seekers.
• Great Himalayan National Park- India's premiere national park near Kullu preserves biodiverse forests, alpine meadows and glaciers. Challenging treks traverse through its extraordinary landscapes.
• Chandrakhani Pass- At 3,660m, this lofty pass straddling Kullu and Malana valleys offers jaw-dropping vistas of soaring peaks like Deo Tibba. A trekker's delight amidst pristine Himalayan splendor.

Top Things to do in Manali and Kasol Kheerganga Trek

• Trek to Kheerganga- The highlight is trekking up to the sacred Kheerganga ridge at 2960m, with views of snow peaks and hot springs to soothe your muscles.
• Camp by the Parvati River- Pitch a tent at riverside campsites along the Parvati River as it flows through valleys, under starry skies.
• Visit Manikaran Sahib- This famous Sikh gurdwara in Kasol has hot springs with healing waters. Take a dip in the kund or try the Kada prasad.
• Explore Malana Village- One of the oldest Himalayan villages, Malana has a unique culture and a controversial tradition of growing hash. Guided tours will give you a peek into their life.
• Adventure Activities in Solang Valley- Solang Valley near Manali offers several adventure activities such as skiing, zorbing, paragliding and horse riding amidst alpine scenery.
• Soak in Vashisht Hot Springs- The sulphuric hot springs in Vashisht village near Manali have healing properties.
• Visit Ancient Temples- Visit the ancient Hadimba Devi temple in Manali and the rock-cut Bijli Mahadev temple after a 16km trek.
• Explore Village Life- Interact with locals in villages like Chalal, Kasol, Trance and get a glimpse into traditional Himalayan life and customs.
• Nature Trails & Photography- The entire trail, from cedar forests to flower meadows, is perfect for nature walks and photography.
• Cafe Culture in Kasol- Kasol and nearby villages like Chalal and Graham have a vibrant cafe scene with Israeli, Continental and local food.
• Shopping in Manali Mall Road- Shopping in the Mall Road of Manali offers a delightful array of local handicrafts, woolen and souvenirs amidst the charming mountain backdrop. From vibrant shawls to intricately crafted handicrafts, Mall road is a bustling hub for travelers seeking authentic Himalayan treasures.

Quick Facts About Kheerganga Trek

Best Time to Visit Manali and Kasol Kheerganga Trek

• Peak Season (May-June): Pleasant temperatures from 15-25°C grace this period with clear skies showcasing snow capped Himalayan vistas. Valleys are carpeted in vibrant blooms, though crowds and pricing peak.
• Monsoon (July-Mid September): Incessant rains from 10-20°C make trekking risky with slippery trails and leeches. Mountains are shrouded, but landscapes vibrant green and accommodation cheaper with fewer crowds.
• Post-Monsoon (Mid Sept-Nov): Dry, crisp weather from 5-20°C ensures stunning views of snow-decked ranges. Chances of snowfall increase, alongside remarkable autumn hues ideal for photography.
• Winter (Dec-April): Sub-zero temperatures with heavy snowfall block trails and bring high avalanche risks, Embarking on Kheerganga Trek is Not recommended during this season.

How to Reach Manali and Kasol Kheerganga Trek

• By Air: Nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, 50 km from Manali. It Has direct flights from Delhi and Chandigarh. From the airport you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Manali.
• By Rail: Nearest major railway station is in Pathankot, 295 km from Manali. From Pathankot you can take a bus, hire a taxi or book transport to Manali.
• By Road: Manali is well connected by road to major cities of North India. Some routes:

1. Delhi to Manali (540 km) NH 44 from Delhi to Chandigarh to Mandi to Manali.
2. Chandigarh to Manali (310 km) Chandigarh-Mandi-Kullu-Manali road

Explore our other tour packages: Manali Solang Valley, Shimla Manali 5D/4N, Spiti Valley- Manali Edition, Manali Kasol Kheerganga

Things To Pack