Tag Archive hiking

BySoul Mountain Expeditions

Triund & McLeodganj Hikes

Mcleodganj to Triund Hikes

These are some of the easiest treks in this region and so a great choice for beginners as they gradually acquaint themselves to mountains. Experts also have fun dong this trek due to its magnificent views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. The altitude is low and the trek is simple make it accessible for anyone.

Travel package Services

TRANSPORT: On foot. Himachal-Pradesh- stream-hiking
ACCOMMODATION: Guest houses & campsites.
ENDURANCE LEVEL: Anyone to Expert.
ACTIVITIES: Trekking, Hiking, Mountain climbing, Bird watching, Meditation
DURATION: 1 to 3 Days
MEALS: Packed lunch, juice, fruits.
COST: From USD 100

ONE DAY TREK
DAY 1: McLeodganj -Triund and back
(Altitude 2975 m, Distance 9 Km)
. The Triund ridge has an exceptional view of the Kangra valley below as it is majestically surrounded by the mountains of the Dhauladhar range. We will typically begin the trekking from Dharmkot. As we walk through wonderful forests of rhododeron we can recognize rhododeron, devdar and many other trees. We will also spot plenty of beautiful butterflies and tiny ladybugs. After lunch and rest, and visit to a small temple we get rejuvenated.
.We walk back to Mcleodganj following the same trail or we may also go through Bhagsung to view a picturesque waterfall and return to Mcleodganj.

TWO DAYS TREK

This 2 day trek will involve night stay on the Triund ridge in camp on 1st day. Instead of coming back, we’ll explore the triund ridge, visit a small temple up the trail and rest while enjoying the views.
DAY 2: Back to home.
We enjoy the early morning sunrise and have a hot breakfast. We then go back to Mcleodganj on foot. Alternatively, we can go to Bhagsung and enjoy the sights of the waterfall, and then from there we can go to Mcleodganj.

THREE DAYS TREK

DAY 2: Triund – Snowline Trek
The snowline of Triund is actually a glacial at the base of a glacier called Got , the position of which changes from season to season. Lunch there and we return to Triund for night stay. Altitude is 3350 m and distance is 4 km
DAY 3: Return to McLeodganj
After breakfast we come back to the same route or we may also go to Bhagsung temple and waterfall, and take in the sights and sounds. A 15 min walk and we reach Mcleodganj

BySoul Mountain Expeditions

Himalayan Adventure Holidays

A holiday in Himalayas is more than just mountain climbing and trekking. Different regions in Himalayas attract millions of tourists for a variety of reasons ranging from adventure to spirituality. We arrange various kinds of adventure holidays in Himalayas tailor made to budgets and preferences of each guest,

Our holiday and adventure facilities in Himalayas include camping, climbing, home stay, trekking and hotel facilities in the beautiful Lahaul Spiti valley region near India Tibet border. The average altitude of Spiti is above 4000 meters and is one of the least explored regions in India. Himachal-Pradesh- waterfall-hiking

You can contact us for any of the following adventure holiday options in Spiti region:

1) Trekking expeditions of all types. We will suggest routes, arrange guides, porters and equipment.

2) Camping holidays. Want to go camping without spending a fortune on expensive camping gear ? We’ll arrange a memorable camping trip for you near the stunningly beautiful Chandrataal lake and many other places in Lahaul SPiti.

3) Holidays in Himalayas. Go on a exciting and refreshing journey through Manali, Lahaul, Spiti and Shimla for a memorable holiday with camping, welcoming home stays, cosy hotels and trekking expeditions included.

4) Wildlife Tracking . Spend days in untouched wilderness spotting unique and very rare Himalayan wildlife like snow leopards, Himlayan bears, wolves, pikas, golden cocks and numerous types of migratory birds.

5) Mountain Biking and Driving. Explore the Himalayan roads on bikes or 4 wheel drives at your leisure and speed.

Please email us or fill up the contact form for a free quote and more information about your Himalayas trip.

BySoul Mountain Expeditions

Har Ki Dun Trek

Har Ki Dun Trek

Har ki dun, the valley of Gods is below the Fateh Parvat and is a very scenic valley in the midst of the Himalayan beauty, of Gharwal. The route most popular with the trekkers is via Govind National Park. We take this route and come across a lot of insects and lovely chirping birds, flowers and animals like the musk deer, wild goats and so on. You will also see glaciers and mountain streams, forests in the Alps and rolling Meadows. The trek being easy you can get the thrill of observing the beautiful and majestic mountains. Anyone in relatively good health can attempt this trek as it is easy.

Tour Details:

TRANSPORT: In private or shared car with driver and foot.
ACCOMMODATION: Camps, guesthouse.
ENDURANCE LEVEL: Anyone to medium.
ACTIVITIES: Trekking, Bird watching, Meditation, Hiking, sightseeing, bird watching, wildlife spotting, camping
DURATION: 7 to 9 Days
MEALS: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
COST: US $ 200 onwards

Trek Schedule

DAY 1: Arrive at Sankri
From Rishikesh we reach Sankri, our destination in 5 hours and from Dehradun we reach there in 7 hours. Sankri is located at an altitude of 2000m. We reach there in the evening and relax for the day. We explore our natural surroundings and look at the lovely snow covered Himalayas. We stay in the camp for the night. The option of staying in the guest house is also available.
DAY 2: Sankri to Seema – Taluka
A hot cup of tea in the cold morning is exactly what you need, along with your breakfast. We, then start the trek as we walk to a small hamlet called Taluka, 12 kms aindia-himalayas-mountains-viewway. IT would take around 4 hours and we partake of our lunch there, then we have some rest to relax our tired legs and again start walking to reach Seema village at 2700m altitude, 14 kms away. While trekking you will encounter very beautiful flowers, such as the roses and some plants like the deodar and chestnut. If you feel that 26 kms in a day is a lot to take, we can extend this trip in two days, staying at Sankri for one night and Taluka for the other. A pleasant waterfall meets us as we approach Taluka
DAY 3: Taluka – Osla
Now, we proceed to Osla, which is a small hamlet amongst the natural, lovely surrounding mountains. If we are lucky we may also see some wild boar, leopard, deer and such animals and birds. We stop at Dhatmir, for rest and relaxation. And then resume our walk as we are constantly met with scenery along with wild orchids, and butterflies. Dinner and night in the tent.
DAY 4: Osla – Har Ki Dun
Packing up our camping gear at Osla, we trek towards our next destination, Har ki Dun. 11kms away from Osla and it takes about 5 hours to reach there. Here we see the glorious glaciers Swargarohini and Juandar at 6200 m altitude. The scene does not change much, but the beauty of the glaciers is breathtaking. Reaching our camping site, we set up our tents and spend the day relaxing there, enjoying the lovely and serene surroundings of the Himalayan Mountains and the forests. We have a day free at Har ki Dun, where we can do some of our own exploration and discover the place. Sunset and sunrise there are exceptionally beautiful.
DAY 5: Har Ki Dun – Osla
Back to Osla on our return trip. We walk to Taluka if the tourists want to and enjoy beautiful sights again. As the route gets familiar, we are more relaxed and can better appreciate the wonders of nature that we observe. Shortcuts are available and can be taken if wanted to reduce the time taken by an hour or so, but they are not meant for all.
DAY 6: Osla – Sankri
From Osla we trek for another long 26 km to reach Sankri, taking about 9 hours or so. Again, the early morning we start early to reach Sankri before dark. We put up a bonfire and enjoy our last night in the lap of the Himalayas.
DAY 7: Back to Rishikesh, Dehradun etc.
Back to our destinations with memories forever.

BySoul Mountain Expeditions

Roop Kund 6 Days Trek

Trekking to Roop Kund ( 6 Days)

A small remote lake in the deeper parts of the Himalayas is Roopkund. This has gained popularity after a heap of remains of people was found here. The theories are many. It could be that the people were pilgrims, lost their way and were destroyed by storm, or it is also possible according to some that they were a part of the team of Zoravar Singh of Jammu and were on their return journey from Tibet, after a raid. Whatever may be the reason, the lake is very pretty, on 5000m altitude and in the mountainous feature called Trishul in Gharwal in Uttarakhand. You will pass through amazing greenlands and forests and will encounter many small mountain streams. Thought not mandatory, some previous trekking experience might help. This trek is relatively easy, and you might also encounter some snow.

Tour Services:
TRANSPORT: On foot, car or SUV with driver.
ACCOMMODATION: guest houses, home stays & campsites.
ENDURANCE LEVEL: Medium to Expert. Prior experience in trekking desirable.
ACTIVITIES: Trekking, Camping, Mountain climbing, Bird watching, Motorcycle rides, Hiking, Meditation (Optional)
DURATION: 6 to 7 Days
MEALS: By choice
COST: USD 1200 onwards india-himalayas-mountains-hiking trips

DAY 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Mundoli
As we take a car, and drive to Mundoli, we will pass destinations like Rudraparayag, Devprayag, and some other little villages. It is an 8-10 hour drive, with a few halts for lunch, etc. At night we stay in camping in Mundoli.
DAY2 : Drive from Mundoli to Bedni Bugyal via Wan
Early next morning we begin our drive to Wan (10 km) and this is the place where the real trek, begins, We take our gear form the cat , and take the trail to Bedni Bugyal ( altitude 3350 m), and trek for about 4 hours (11km) . Bedni is beautiful. There are meadows, forests, flowers and the site is ideal for camping too. You will find some locals with their sheep for grazing. One more day is spent here, to get acclimatized.
DAY 3: Trek from Bedni Bugyal to Bagubassa
Baggu Bassa meaning a place of flowers in the local Gharwaali dialect is at an altitude of 4100 meters. The name is apt as you will soon see. A wide variety of blossoms and flowers spread out over the area; include the Brahma Kamal (a type of lotus). This flower is characteristic of growing in such high altitudes. As we climb higher and the air is more rarefied, we find it more and more difficult to climb each step. A walk of 10 km today makes us reach our campsite. But the altitude is constantly increasing till Roopkund. If we attempt to reach Bagubassa early, we have a better chance of acclimatization. . We stay here for two more days. Sometimes, we might have to stay longer if the weather conditions are unsuitable.
DAY 4: Trek from Bagubassa to Roopkund
We start day 4 with more trekking to the Kaluka Vinayak Pass, and pass through the Pathar Nachwani. If the snow gets soft with sunrise, the climbing gets tougher, so it is a good idea to start a little early. You will be stupefied with the majestic view of the Himalayas and its magnificent peaks like Badrinath, Trishul, Nanda Devi, and many more. Some high altitude pastures cross our way, too, which is mostly hidden by snow for most of the year. We then reach Roopkund. Here you may see the human and horse remains centuries back.
If you go to Roop Kund and do not climb the Junargali peak, it is a pity. The peak is on the ridge. The ridge is at a height of 100 meters. Unless the weather does not permit, you should attempt this. Enjoy the view of the lovely lake, surrounded by beautiful scenery all around. Walking down the slope to our camp, we call it a day as we reach Bedni Bugyal or Bagu Bassa and have dinner there. Night stay at camp under the open sky.
DAY 5: Trek from Bedni Bugyal/Bagubassa to Wan
From here, the return to Wan begins; We will have to go through Bedni Bugyal, if our night was spent at Bagu Bassa. This journey is relatively easy to do, as the air now gets thicker, the altitude also gets comfortable. This path is lined with forests of Rhodederon and the climb over the ridge to Wan village is also very scenic. Night at campsite.
DAY 6: Drive from Wan to Rishikesh
Breakfast and then a good bye to the Bugyals, as we return to Rishikesh.

BySoul Mountain Expeditions

Trek Hamta Pass to Chandrataal Lake

Hamta Pass to Chandra Taal Lake Trek (7 Days)

This trekking route will take you through wide varieties of terrain as we pass from Hamta Pass in Kullu valley to Chandra Taal Lake in Spiti. The trekkers cross different terrain like green pine forests, glaciers, deep valleys, open meadows and high altitude deserts. This trek should be attempted by people already familiar with at least basic trekking.

Trek Services:

TRANSPORT: On foot, in private car or SUV with driver.
ACCOMMODATION: Campsites.
ENDURANCE LEVEL: Medium to Expert.
ACTIVITIES: Trekking, Camping, Mountain climbing, Bird watching, Hiking
DURATION: 7 days normal. May vary in different seasons.
MEALS: Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.
COST: Variable

Trekking Schedule India Himalaya Mountains travel Manali

Day 1. Drive to Manali – Jobra – Chika
The first day begins by going to Jobra in a car. Jobra village is a small, quaint settlement at an altitude of 3200 m .It has green pine trees, forests, around the area. Rest done in the village, we sometimes partake some tea. Afterwards we trek in the forest and reach a meadow. From the meadow we go along side Rani Nala, which is a little rivulet which passes through it. Reaching Chika in the evening, we end the trek for today. We then set up our camp and prepare ourselves for the night.
Day 2. Chika – Jwara – Balu Ka Gera trek
After partaking of breakfast, we need to get our things from the camp site, pack up and walk along the little rivulet or stream. After walking awhile besides it, we will have to cross the stream. This is not a very tough task and we can easily accomplish it. We might not even get wet. The Dhauladhar range is seen from here. We see this mountain range for the first time in this trek. Walking from this point on, we keep to gain more and more altitude. Next we stop at Balu-Ka- Gera, which means a bed of sand in the local Himalayan dialect. Camp is set up there and we rest and relax.
Day 3. Balu-Ka-Gera – Shea Goru – Hampta Pass trek
Today is the day for trekking along with the river by our side. We also encounter our first major incline. A trek of 30-40 mins will take us to some ground level. A good point for photography, as the scene is very picturesque. We rest, take some pictures and then we continue to walk through the ridge till we reach Hampta Pass at an altitude of 4600 m. If luck is with you , we may see snow around and slide down steadily through the slope. But if not, we have to be really careful as the slope is steep. This brings us to Spit region. We meet the river again. Our camp site is a place called Shea Goru.
Day 4. Trek: Shea Goru – Chatru
The next day we will go along the river. The terrain will be barren as you do not see any vegetation around. There are some grassy patches around and some shrubbery. Walking along the trail for 4 hours or so and reaching the flat land, we say goodbye to the mountains. Some glacial flows may hinder our path, and delay us. We will have to cross some streams to reach our next camp site in Chatru.
Day 5. Chatru – Chota Darra trek
Here we walk upstream the river and then we pass villages on the way. The villagers here mainly depend on farming and gathering some herds for their livelihood. Sometimes, they also rear some live stock. Some villagers leave the place to come back in summer and go to warmer places in winter. The terrain remains rocky and there are also chances of landslides. That is the reason we need to be careful as we trek in this area. The last destination for today is Chota Darra where we will camp and spend the night.
Day 6. Chota Darra – Batal trek
We take breakfast in the morning and as we walk on the same trail as yesterday; the terrain pretty much remains the same. Our first stop today will be Batal. This is a major resting point for all the vehicles that pass through this area. One trail from Batal leads to Kaza via Kunzum La. The other trail leads to Chandra Taal Lake. Depending on the time we reach, we can have an early dinner in one of the dhabas. Sometimes, we may also have a late lunch. There is a facility for resting at night in the dhabas.

BySoul Mountain Expeditions

Tour of Dharmshala Mcleodganj with Triund

Dharmshala Mcleodganj with Triund Travel Package

Immerse yourself completely in the beauty of natural surroundings as you take this travel package consisiting of Dharmshala, Mcleaodganj and Kangra in complete detail. There is also an opportunity to view some man-made attractions in the heart of nature, spend quality time with folk fore or remain in seclusion.

Travel Package Includes:

TRANSPORT : In bus, private or shared car with driver.
ACCOMMODATION: Hotels, guest houses, home stays & campsites.
ENDURANCE LEVEL: Anyone to Expert. Depends upon destinations and activities chosen.
ACTIVITIES: Trekking, Camping, Mountain climbing, Jungle safari, Bird watching, Cultural activities, Meditation, Yoga, Volunteer activities
DURATION: 7 Days
MEALS: By choice
COST: From US $ 500 onwards

DAY 1: Reach Dharmshala himachal-pradesh-travel-plans

We pick you up from Chandigarh or alternatively from Delhi or Amritsar and we arrive in Msleodganj, Dharmashala. After refreshing yourself in the hotel, we take a stroll around the local shops to buy some cheap jewelry or souvenirs or may be just feast the eyes and interact with the locals.

DAY 2: Kangra

We spend the day knowing about the simple culture of Kangra and do some sight seeing. After which we progress to see the kangra fort which has an important place in the history of this place. We also spend some time dwelling in historical facts. Later, we visit the Kangra museum and War memorial. A drive leads us to the MAchiral temple and the hot springs of Tatwani. As the water is therapeutic , we enjoy some time relaxing. After watching the Machiral fall, which is the biggest in the region, we head back to the hotel.

DAY3: Tibetan Buddhism in Mcleodganj, Dharmshala

We spend this day in Mcleaodganj itself, the capital of the government of Tibet. This place is also the residence an exile place of the Dalai Lama. We begin this day by visiting the Tsugladkhag monastery, which proudly has three major idols, that of Sayamuni Buddha, AValokitsvara and Padmasambhava in gilded bronze, a true beauty. Spiritually important, this place houses people from all over the world, who come here to offer prayers and spend some time in silent meditation. Here, we find various monks in their typical manner, meditating or debating. We then proceed to Norbulingka Instititute( meaning Jewel Garden) , a place known for its study of Tibetan art and culture. We spend some time here looking at the various books and arts on the subject. If you wish you also have the chance to buy something. Before, we call it a day, we go to the Dip Thekchen Choeling Monastery and museum. This monastery has a roof of gold and is amazing.

DAY 4 : Exploring Mcleodganj

A little reflection on the knowledge of the past few days, a little recharging oneself and we take a picturesque walk to the St. John’s church nestled in the rustic greenery. We can also take a drive to there. This place ,w hich is built in black stone in 1852 is a pretty sight to see as it is engulfed by trees on all sides. We then proceed to the ancient Bhagsung temple whish is famous for its numerous stories and has been renovated recently. A drive or walk into the winding hillside brings us to Dal Lake, located in the middle with trees surrounding on all sides at the foot of the mountains. A visit to a small temple is the last thing we do before we go to Naddi to enjoy the beauty of the setting sun.

DAY 5: The Hidden Dharmkot Waterfall

This place is known to only a few people but if you are a hiker and a water lover it is something you must see. Driving to Gallu ka mandir in Dharmkot, we then take a beautiful nature trail to the cascading waterfall. A walk of 5 kms brings us to a tinkling stream flowing from within the mountains and converting into a stupendous waterfall. A perfect end to the day, we can have steaming tea and some refreshments from a shop which serves us for some months. Back to Mcleodganj, we stroll through the local town and partake of dinner from one of the many restaurants.

DAY 6: Trek To Triund

A 9 km one way trek, lasting for a day, from easy to medium level of difficulty is a must try. We begin the trek from Dharmkot and follow a lovely nature trail to the green and colourful surroundings meeting lots of birds and butterflies on the way. And as we come to the end of the walk a grand view of the Triund range of mountains called the Dhualdhar mountains meet our eye. We also have the option of extending this trek into 3 dyas by following the Triund Snowline trek, or we may opt to camp in Triund for the night and finish it in two days. As we head back to the hotel at night, you can take a hot shower and retire for the day.

DAY 7 Drive Back Home

We mark the end of the journey here, after breakfast and drive back home with lovely memories.

BySoul Mountain Expeditions

Hike from Chandrataal Lake to Samudri Tapu

Hike From ChandraTaal Lake to Samudri Taapu Glacier

This  short trek from Samudri Taapu from Chandra Taal which can be done in 2 or 3 days. This trek is ranked as a medium category, at an altitude of 4300m.. Samudri Taapu is origin of one of major tributaries of  of Chandra River as it flows through Spiti valley and later meets river Chenab. This trek is very good  choicefor people wanting to explore trekking and camping and a test for their skills.

Trek Includes: India Himalaya Mountains travel chandrataal lake spiti

TRANSPORT : Trek on foot.
ACCOMMODATION: Campsites.
ENDURANCE LEVEL: Medium.
ACTIVITIES: Trekking, Camping, Mountain climbing, Bird watching, Meditation, Volunteer activities (Optional)
DURATION: 2-3 Days
MEALS: By choice
COST: US $ 150 per person onwards

DAY1: Lake to Glacier Trek
We walk from Chandra Taal to trek along the Chandra River. The terrain is rocky and unstable and also has some streams and ridges. You will only find a few Gaddi shepherds. We then walk for about 5 hours and reach the origin of the Chandra River and stop here for lunch, in the lap of nature. We rest, awhile and cross the plateau, for setting up our camp. Exploration of the area can be done, before we retire for the day in our tents.
DAY 2: Trekking Back.
Returning in the same way or taking a short cut is your choice. The short cut is not very safe and not suggested alone, and also with a heavy backpack. Then we climb up a dry waterfall, active during the rains only and walk for one hour approximately to reach the campsite. Further you can explore the area if you want.

BySoul Mountain Expeditions

Chandrataal lake day hike

INTRODUCTION

Chandrataal Lake is a popular hiking and camping destination in Spiti region It’s altitude is 4300 meters and is one of the highest wetlands anywhere in the world. The lake is within a day or 2 days trek (depending upon the route) from Samudri Tapu, source of Chandra river which flows through Spiti Valley and is a major tributary of Chenab river.The lake itself is an important site for locals and is source of many myths and folktales of the region. The crystal clear waters of the lake attract people as well as some rare birds and animals at different seasons. The expansive grasslands near Chandrataal lake are home to numerous types of wild flowers as well as source of food for many wild animals as well as flocks of local Gaddi shepherds.

While camping in the authorised campsite, guests have two options of seeing the lake. They can either drive towards lake via the rough road or hike via a more scenic route through the mountains. This hiking route passes through numerous interesting sights such as imposing view of Chandra river, Samudri Tapu in distance, small meadows, temporary ponds and numerous other little interesting sights which most people never see.

BEST FOR: Seeing Chandra Taal lake and surrounding area in detail.

Chandrataal lake Trip Summary:
Day 1: Walk to lake on a hiking trail. Walk around lake and grassland nearby. Lunch.
DURATION: 1 day
BEST SEASON: May to October. Possible rest of year on request.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Low
MAXIMUM ELEVATION: 4300 m.
WEATHER: Afternoons can be a bit warm during summer. Cold otherwise with strong winds.
EQUIPMENT: None necessary.

ITINERARY

We will start walking towards the lake early morning from a hiking trail which starts near the camp site. We will climb up the route and walk through an area with some streams, grass, wild flowers and numerous other little things which add stars to beauty of the region. On the way, we will come across some temporary ponds formed by snow melt and rains. Some points on the way offer stunning views of mountains, Samudri Tapu glacier and Chandra river.

After reaching lake, we will rest for a few minutes before embarking on a walk around the lake. There is a plain area on other side of lake which is a favurite grazing ground for many flocks as well as wild animals. After spending some time there, we will walk back to campsite for a meal and rest.

GENERAL NOTIFICATIONS:

  • Travel itineraries in the mountains don not necessarily run exactly as scheduled. Keep a buffer for delays due to weather, road conditions etc.
  • Any additional expenses caused by delays, medical condition, road blocks and other causes will be borne by the guests.
  • We recommend a comprehensive travel insurance and a medical checkup before the visit.
  • This tour covers some remote destinations in Spiti which have very limited phone coverage, unpredictable weather and high altitude.

INCLUSIONS

  • Accommodation in Chandrataal campsite.
  • Meals, tea and non-bottled water in campsite,

EXCLUSIONS

  • Transport to campsite.
  • Personal expenses, refreshments during road journey, alcohol.
  • Anything not mentioned explicitly in the above program.

 

BySoul Mountain Expeditions

Kunjapuri Rishikesh hike at sunrise

INTRODUCTION: Uttarakhand Rishikesh Hikes

Kunjapuri is situated at an altitude of 1650 meters  very near Rishikesh and provides excellent panoramic view of  Himalayan mountains and valleys.  It is a religious place and thousands of devotees visit during Navrataras and Dusshera. For tourists, it’s an excellent place to see sunrise and sunset over the Himalayan mountain peaks.
Best For: People who want to enjoy a short, easy hike near Rishikesh

Trip Summary:

Pickup drop from Rishikesh and hike to Kunjapuri peak in morning,
DURATION: 1 day
BEST SEASON: All year
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Low
MAXIMUM ELEVATION: 1650 meters
WEATHER: Warm afternoons  during summer. Cool to cold weather at other times.
EQUIPMENT: None.

ITINERARY

The car or bike will pick you up at 4:00 am to 5:00 am and take you to  Kunjapuri (26 km). We will then hike till sunrise point and enjoy view as the sun comes up from behind the mountains. After sunrise, hike to Kunjapuri temple and have a light breakfast. After this, we will walk back to Rishikesh through a small but scenic route, around 13 km long. We can also drive back if so preferred. We’ll reach Laxman Jhula to end the hike.

PACKING LIST

  • Small backpack to hold the day walk necessities.
  • Warm clothes, wind-cheater, scarf, hat, sun-glasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes.
  • Personal medical kit, water bottle, snacks.

 GENERAL NOTIFICATIONS:

  • Travel itineraries in the mountains  don not necessarily run exactly as scheduled. Keep a buffer for delays due to weather, road conditions etc.
  • Any additional expenses caused by delays, medical condition, road blocks and other causes will be borne by the guests.
  • We recommend a comprehensive  travel insurance and a medical checkup before the visit.

INCLUSIONS

  • Pickup and drop from Rishikesh in a private or shared taxi or bike.
  • Light breakfast, tea.

EXCLUSIONS

  • Hotel stay at Rishikesh before and after the trip.
  • Personal expenses, refreshments during road journey, alcohol.
  • Anything not mentioned explicitly in the above program.
BySoul Mountain Expeditions

5 Days Shimla To Manali Road Trip With Camping at Chandra Taal

INTRODUCTION Chandrataal lake hike

Chandra Taal Lake is a popular destination in Spiti region for tourists interested in trekking, camping, hiking and other adventure activities. It’s situated at an altitude of 4300 meters and is among the highest wetlands anywhere in the world. The lake is within a day or 2 days trek River Chandra which later on becomes Chenab has it’s origin in Samudri Tapu just a day or two days hike from the lake depending upon the route taken. Chandra Taal is a holy place for people of Lahaul Spiti region and is believed to be a place where many myths and folktales of the region were born. A variety of rare birds and animals live in vicinity or stay nearby at different seasons.
There are also some large grasslands near the lake which are are an important feeding grounds for herds of local Gaddi shepherds as well as some wild animals like yaks, ibex and a few other rare animals. Camping or any other human activity like construction is not allowed within 3 kms of the lake to protect the sensitive ecology. For the last stretch, our guests can either trek to the campsite via a trekking route starting from Kunzum La or stay in car.
BEST FOR: This trip is best for enjoying the beauty of major attractions of Spiti region in 5-7 days.

TRIP SUMMARY:

Day 1: Shimla to Sarhan (6 hours)
Day 2: Sarhan To Kalpa ( 3 hours)
Day 3: Kalpa to Kaza (4+ hours)
Day 4: Kaza to Chandra Taal lake via Kunzum La (5 hours)
Day 5: Chandra Taal to Manali via Rohtang Pass. ( 8 hours)
DURATION: 5 days, 4 nights.
BEST SEASON: May to October
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Low
MAXIMUM ELEVATION: 4590 m at Kunzum La.
WEATHER: Afternoons can be a bit warm during summer. Cold otherwise with strong winds.
EQUIPMENT: Hiking shoes and stick if hiking option chosen

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Early morning pickup from Shimla with final stop at Sarahan. It’s a drive of about 6 hours with on some of the most difficult roads on the planet. Visit to historic Bhim Kali temple and bird sanctuary in the evening if time permits.
Day 2: From Sarahan, we will drive towards Kalpa which is famous for it’s fruit orchards. Enjoy some time in the village, orchards and with local farmers.
Day 3: Drive from Kalpa to Kaza takes about 4 to 5 hours, so we start early in the morning. We will have rest stops for refreshments, rest and sightseeing at Dhankar, Tabo and a couple of other places depending upon route taken. Kaza is the biggest town in region and has the only petrol pump in the region. See the new Buddhist monastery and take a walk in the bazaar.
Day 4: Drive towards Chandra Taal lake via Kunzum La. You can either take the 9 kms hiking route or stay in the car. Visit lake in late afternoon or evening. Night in campsite.
Day 5: Early morning visit to Chandra Taal lake and then drive to Manali via Rohtang Pass with stops at Chatru, Chota Darra and Rohtang Pass. Drop at bus stand or nearby hotel.

 PACKING LIST

  • Small backpack to hold the day walk necessities.
  • Luggage in rucksack/soft bags suitable to be carried by self or porters.
  • Warm clothes, wind-cheater, scarf, hat, sun-glasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes.
  • Personal medical kit, water bottle, snacks.
  • Toilet paper, wet wipes.
  • A bag to collect own trash.
  •  GENERAL INFORMATION:

  • Travel itineraries in the mountains  don not necessarily run exactly as scheduled. Keep a buffer for delays due to weather, road conditions etc.
  • Any additional expenses caused by delays, medical condition, road blocks and other causes will be borne by the guests.
  • We recommend a comprehensive  travel insurance and a medical checkup before the visit.
  • This tour covers some remote destinations in Spiti which have very limited phone coverage, unpredictable weather and high altitude.

INCLUSIONS

  • Pickup from Shimla and drop at Manali in a private or shared taxi.
    Accommodation in Chandrataal campsite and hotels in all stops mentioned.
    Meals, tea and non-bottled water in campsite, Bottled water available for purchase. Breakfast and dinner in hotels.

EXCLUSIONS

  • Transport till Shimla or after Manali.
  • Hotel stay and meals at Shimla and Manali before and after the trip.
  • Personal expenses, refreshments during road journey, alcohol.
  • Anything not mentioned explicitly in the above program.