Kheerganga Trek

Along the Kheerganga Trek

Rudranag Temple & Waterfall

A small but important Shiva shrine roughly halfway up the trail. It is a traditional practice among trekkers and pilgrims to stop here before continuing to the summit. The waterfall beside it is one of the cleanest water sources on the route.

Kheerganga Hot Springs (Parvati Kund)

The undisputed highlight of the entire trek. These mineral-rich geothermal springs are believed to have healing properties — relieving joint pain, improving skin, and relaxing sore muscles. Scientifically, they are fed by dormant volcanic activity deep beneath the valley floor. The milky-white tint of the water adds to the otherworldly atmosphere.

Shiva Temple at Kheerganga

A small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati stands directly beside the hot spring. Visiting before entering the water is a ritual observed by most trekkers, pilgrims, and locals.

Snowline Beyond Kheerganga

For those with more energy, it is possible to trek an additional 2–3 hours beyond the meadow to reach the snowline — where permanent glaciers and snow fields begin. This is a rewarding extension for those spending two nights at Kheerganga.

Pin Parvati Pass Views

On clear days from the Kheerganga meadow, the distant peaks of the Pin Parvati range — one of the most challenging high-altitude crossings in Himachal Pradesh — are visible to the north.

Difficulty Level of the Kheerganga Trek

The trek is rated easy to moderate — one of the most accessible Himalayan treks in India.

What Makes It Accessible:

• No technical mountaineering skill required
• Well-marked trail with tea stalls and rest points along the way
• Suitable for ages 12 and above with basic fitness
• No permit required

What Makes It Challenging:

• 12–13 km uphill with 900 m elevation gain — not a casual walk
• Steep sections before Rudranag and the final push to the meadow
• Can be slippery in monsoon or after rain
• Cold nights at the campsite even in summer — temperatures drop to near-freezing after sunset

How to Reach Barshaini for the Kheerganga Trek

From Delhi

• Overnight HRTC Volvo bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Bhuntar (10–12 hours, ₹800–₹1,400)
• From Bhuntar, take a local bus or shared taxi to Kasol (30 min, ₹50–₹150)
• From Kasol, hire a cab or take a local bus to Barshaini (45 min, ₹100–₹300 by bus / ₹500–₹700 by cab)

From Chandigarh

• Bus to Bhuntar (~5 hours), then local transport to Kasol and Barshaini

Nearest Airport

• Bhuntar Airport (Kullu–Manali) — 30 km from Kasol
• Taxi from airport to Barshaini: ₹800–₹1,200

Where to Stay on the Kheerganga Trek

Camping at Kheerganga Meadow

The most popular and recommended option. Several operators run pre-setup tent camps at the meadow with meals, sleeping bags, and blankets included. Book in advance during peak season (May–June, October).

Ashram Near the Temple

A small ashram near the Shiva temple offers basic dormitory-style accommodation. Stripped-down but functional — and free or nominal contribution-based for pilgrims.

Kasol (Before/After the Trek)

Kasol has a wide range of guesthouses, hostels, and cafés for every budget. Ideal base for the night before starting and for recovery after the descent.

What to Eat on the Kheerganga Trek

On the trail:

• Small Maggi points at Nakthan village and along the route offer Maggi noodles, chai, omelettes, and parathas
• Rudranag temple area has a small tea stall

At Kheerganga:

• Several open-air cafés serve Indian, Tibetan, and Continental food
• Dal rice, momos, thukpa, pasta, and pizza (basic) are all available
• Non-vegetarian options available at some stalls on the trail

Packing List for the Kheerganga Trek

Clothing

• ✅ Trekking shoes — sturdy, ankle-supporting, broken in before the trek
• ✅ Light moisture-wicking t-shirts — 2 pairs
• ✅ Warm fleece or mid-layer jacket — essential for evenings
• ✅ Windproof outer jacket
• ✅ Trekking trousers — 1–2 pairs
• ✅ Woollen socks — 2–3 pairs
• ✅ Woollen cap and light gloves (for evenings)
• ✅ Swimwear or shorts — for the hot spring

Essentials

• ✅ Daypack 20–30L
• ✅ Water bottle — 1.5L minimum
• ✅ Sunscreen SPF 30+
• ✅ Sunglasses
• ✅ Headlamp or torch
• ✅ Rain poncho or waterproof jacket
• ✅ Dry snacks — energy bars, dry fruits, nuts
• ✅ Cash — no ATMs beyond Kasol
• ✅ Power bank
• ✅ Basic first aid kit

Important Things to Know Before You Go

• Hot spring timings: Open 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM — don’t miss it
• Entry fee for hot spring: ₹2,000 per person (inclusive of GST) as of 2025
• Start early: Begin the trek by 8–9 AM to reach before dark; descending in darkness is dangerous
• Mobile network: Works partially in Kasol and Barshaini — expect a digital detox on the trail and at the top
• BSNL and Airtel have the most reliable coverage in the valley
• Don’t litter: Parvati Valley’s ecosystem is fragile; carry all waste back down
• Overnight camping: Some reports of seasonal restrictions on camping — check locally before you go and carry your own tent as a backup

Budget Estimate for the Kheerganga Trek