Kasol Kheerganga Trek

The Kasol Kheerganga Trek is a short trek in the Parvati Valley of the Himalayas located in the state of Himachal Pradesh with the natural hot springs at Kheerganga, mountain trails and waterfalls. “The trek reaches an altitude of around 9,700 ft.” which makes it a manageable way to take your first steps towards a Himalayan trek without having to go on a long one.

This trip includes the relaxed ambiance of Kasol, a brief trip to Chalal and the scenic route from Barshaini to Kheerganga. The path winds through the forests, streams, waterfalls, mountain landscapes and ends at the Kheerganga meadow.

Himtrek presently offers the trek as a 3 Days / 2 Nights trek from Kasol and the trek starting point from Barshaini is the Kheerganga trekking section. The distance of the trail for the route Barshaini - Kheerganga is about 12 km by one way, though it varies depending on route and conditions.

If you have a thing for visiting places with religious value, this trek has to be on your list as the trek holds beautiful Parvati Kund, a holy hot spring that is just what you need to feel when it’s too cold outside. At Parvati Kund, at Kheerganga highest point, there is a Shiva temple. Hinduism believes that after losing to Lord Ganesha, Kartikeya, Lord Ganesha’s brother, was known to meditate and pray in Kheerganga.

While visiting her son, Parvati had the need to make rice pudding. Legends claim that because of the hot water spring nearby, Parvati actually cooked in the natural hot water itself. This holy, mystical tourist destination was given the name Kheerganga in honour of this significant legendary event. Kheerganga, which is situated in Parvati Valley (Kullu Valley), is one of your best options if you’re travelling solo or as a couple.

The journey starts from Kasol where you will spend your first day exploring Kasol and Chalal village. On the second day, the trek begins in the small village of Barshiani, which is located four kilometres before Tosh. Barshaini to Kheerganga is 12 kilometres away, and the trip takes 5 to 6 hours.

Kasol Kheerganga Trek at a Glance

Why go on the Kasol Kheerganga Trek?

For those who aren't into long and high treks, the Kasol Kheerganga trek is a worthy choice. It features the riverside vibe in Kasol, the trekking in forest in Chalal, the mountain trek in Barshaini and the natural environment in Kheerganga all in one short package.

The trek is not a technical Himalayan expedition, but rather a walk through the mountains. The trail, however, is steep, rocky and may get slippery after rain. It is therefore essential that there is some basic level of fitness.

Kasol to Kheerganga Trek Route

The trekking section starts at Barshaini, which is a road-accessible village and the trailhead for the Kheerganga Trek.

Main Route

Kasol → Barshaini → Kheerganga → Barshaini → Kasol

The path runs through the forest on a steeply rising incline and along parts of the landscape of the Parvati Valley from Barshaini. Throughout the trail, depending on the conditions of the trail, one may encounter streams, sections of waterfalls, wooden bridges, steep and slippery sections.

The last approach leads into the Kheerganga meadow where the natural hot springs and the surrounding mountain scenery can be enjoyed.

Kheerganga Trek Distance and Height

The trekking distance from Barshaini to Kheerganga is approximately 12 km one way.

Kheerganga is situated at a height of about 9700 ft (2960 m) above sea level.
It's not a big enough climb to rush on, be sure to take it easy, stay hydrated, and enjoy the hike.

Kheerganga Trek Difficulty

The Kasol Kheerganga Trek is considered an easy Himalayan trek. However, it still involves several hours of uphill walking on uneven terrain. The trek is classified as easy, it still involves several hours of uphill walking on uneven terrain.

The primary barriers are:

• Long uphill walking.

• Uneven and rocky portions of the trail.

• Be prepared for slick roads in the rain.

• Temporary stream and waterfall crossings, as appropriate.

• Changes in weather.

• Continuous moderate elevation walking.

If it's a first hike, walking, climbing stairs, and some simple cardiovascular exercises prior to the trip can make it less of a hassle.

How to Reach Kasol Basecamp?

By Road:

The main route to Kasol is the NH-3. Either self-driving or cab service are options. There are numerous companies that offer taxi services and rental cars in Kasol. For those travelling great distances, Delhi and Chandigarh serve as the base. In addition, buses from Delhi travel daily to Kasol.

By Train:

There isn’t a separate train station in Kasol. Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station which is about 144 miles from Kasol. Chandigarh railway station is 296 km. You can hire a cab or take local buses from these locations to reach Kasol.

By Air:

The Kullu Manali Airport, also known as Bhuntar Airport and located in the Kullu district, is the closest airport to Kasol. The airport has daily flights to Delhi. You can arrange for a taxi or cab to take you from the airport in Bhuntar, which is only 31 kilometres away and will take you there in about an hour, to Kasol.

2 Nights 3 Days Available on request

Best Time for Kheerganga Trek

Weather and Trail Conditions for Kheerganga:

Mountain weather can be unpredictable.

The trail may become muddy or slippery during the rainy season and streams may be higher during this time. Temperatures are often quite low, especially after dark in the colder months.

Trekkers should carry:

• Waterproof rain protection jacket

• A pair of shoes suitable for hiking

• Warm layers.

• Quick-dry clothing.

• Backpack rain cover.

• Extra socks.

• Water bottle.

• Basic personal medicines.

• Sunglasses and sunscreen.

Parvati Kund and Spirituality of Kheerganga.

Kheerganga is recognized not just for its beauty, but also for its religious importance.
The natural hot spring area, which is linked to the Parvati Kund is considered sacred. There is a Shiva temple close to the hot springs area and it has been a pilgrimage and trekker's destination for a long time.

The local folklore is linked with Hindu mythology and Kheerganga. These are stories that are a part of the culture of the place and cannot be viewed as historical events.

The visitor is requested to show respect to the religious value of the place, respect the local instructions regarding entry, bathing and photographing.

Kasol and Chalal Experience

The experience is not limited to the Kheerganga trail. Travellers can also explore Kasol and Chalal before or after the trek, or consider a short Day Hike in Kasol for another way to explore the valley.

Travellers looking for a different combination of Kasol and Parvati Valley experiences can also explore the Kasol Tosh Kheerganga Trip.

Chalal is a less touristy village, located a short walk from Kasol, and set among forest and mountains. The inclusion of this experience makes this a more than a simple point-to-point journey, and provides travellers with time to experience the character of the Parvati Valley.

If you want to explore another trail around the Parvati Valley, you can also consider the Kasol Grahan Trek, known for its forested mountain route and village experience.

Packing for Kheerganga Trek

For a comfortable Kheerganga trek, pack light, but be prepared for changes in weather on the mountain.

Clothing

• Quick-dry trekking pants.

• Moisture-wicking T-shirts.

• Warm mid-layer, such as fleece.

• Lightweight jacket.

• Rain Jacket or Poncho.

• Extra socks.

• Warm nightwear.

Trekking Gear

• Trekking shoes with good grip.

• Use a backpack with a rain cover.

• Hiking poles (as needed).

• Headlamp or flashlight.

• Water bottle.

• Hand-held first aid box.

Personal Essentials

• Sunscreen.

• Sunglasses.

• Lip balm.

• Personal medicines.

• Identity documents.

• Power bank.

• Mini electronics case.

Do not bring extra equipment as the trail is relatively long, with a lot of up and down.

Safety tips for Kheerganga trek:

• Begin the hike on the time indicated in the guide.

• Take time to climb.

• Remain in the group/guide.

• Use shoes that have good traction.

• Be extra careful in wet and slippery areas.

• Never try to cross the river or stream in unsafe conditions.

• Observe closures and follow instructions from the forest department.

• Take your rubbish home with you.

• Respect local villages, religious sites and wildlife.

• Have enough water and/or personal medication on hand.

• If the weather or trail conditions change, follow the trek leader's directions.
  
  

Stay in Kasol Before or After the Trek

If you have time before or after your trekking tour in Kasol, you can stay at Himtrek Stays in Kasol by staying in the area in Himtrek.

Accommodation available, room set-up and stay inclusions vary according to property and package.

Kheerganga Trek Cost

The Kheerganga Trek price is ₹1,699 per person.

Rather than making comparisons based on the headline price, have a look at what's included within the package, for instance:

• Accommodation.

• Meals.

• Person who leads an expedition.

• Forests permit as appropriate.

• Hiking gear (if provided).

• Transportation, if included.

• Support staff.

• Taxes and other applicable charges (if applicable).

The trek fee will be listed separately on Himtrek's present product page, though the prices and availability of the trek may change and the users should check the current price before booking the trek.