Begin your journey in McLeod Ganj, the heart of Tibetan culture in India, where you’ll explore the Dalai Lama Temple, Tibetan Museum, Norbulingka Institute, and the scenic village of Naddi with its stunning Himalayan views. Engage with local communities, learn about Tibetan heritage, and experience the unique blend of spirituality, culture, and mountain life that makes Dharamshala so special.
The adventure continues with an immersive trek through the majestic Dhauladhar Range, traversing dense forests, alpine meadows, remote villages, and high-altitude camps. Highlights include the pristine Kareri Lake, the challenging ascents to Minkiyani Pass and Indrahar Pass, breathtaking views of the Kangra and Chamba valleys, and authentic encounters with local shepherd communities. This journey offers a perfect combination of cultural discovery and Himalayan adventure.
Yes. Safe drinking water will be provided throughout the trek. Guests are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles.
The trek concludes with a descent to McLeod Ganj via the famous Triund route, where guests can relax and celebrate the successful completion of their Himalayan adventure.
Freshly prepared vegetarian meals are typically served during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and hot drinks. Dietary requirements should be advised in advance.
Camps are located in scenic mountain settings including forests, alpine meadows, lakesides, and high-altitude valleys. Facilities are basic and designed to provide a comfortable wilderness experience.
The highest point of the trek is Indrahar Pass at approximately 4,342 metres (14,245 feet). The itinerary is designed to allow gradual acclimatization before attempting the pass.
Hindi is widely spoken, and local dialects vary across villages. In McLeod Ganj and tourist areas, English is commonly understood, especially by guides, homestay hosts, and service providers.
Yes. Experienced local mountain guides accompany the group from the start of the trek in Salli Village until the return to McLeod Ganj, ensuring safety, navigation, and cultural interpretation.
Yes. On arrival and return days, guests can explore local markets offering Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, prayer flags, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Arrival at Dharamshala the fascinating North Indian hill station. Spend the afternoon exploring – starting with a visit to the temple of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, the Namgyel Monastery. Our guide will then take you to the Tibet Museum and the Tibetan Houses of Parliament. In the evening you will once again find plenty of lovely roof top restaurants to choose from; including Japanese, Indian and Tibetan.
Overnight: Homestay, Mcleodganj/ Naddi
After breakfast our guide will take the group to visit his village, Naddi – a beautiful local village with magnificent views of the spectacular Himalayas. You will then travel to the Tibetan Children’s Village which is a thriving educational community for Tibetan children living in exile. Lunch will be enjoyed at the tranquil Norbulingka Institute which is located in the lush valley below McLeodganj. In the afternoon you will have the opportunity to visit the arts centre which preserves the work of Tibetan artisans.
Overnight: Homestay, Mcleodganj/ Naddi
Drive to Salli village, a quiet Himalayan settlement surrounded by terraced fields and forests. Meet the trekking team, gear check, and briefing about the route, safety, and altitude.
Overnight: Village homestay or camp.
Distance: ~10–11 km | Time: 3-4 hrs The trek begins with a gradual ascent through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests. The trail follows mountain streams and traditional forest paths used by locals. Chandrela Camp is set in a peaceful forest clearing, ideal for the first night of camping and acclimatization.
Overnight: Chandrela Camp
Distance: ~7–8 km | Time: 4–5 hrs
The trail climbs steadily through alpine meadows and rocky sections. As the forest thins, views of the Dhauladhar range become clearer. Kareri Lake, fed by snowmelt, lies in a dramatic high-altitude bowl surrounded by boulders and peaks. The calm reflections of the lake make this one of the most scenic camps of the trek.
Overnight: Kareri Lake Camp
Distance: ~12–14 km | Time: 7–8 hrs
An early start for a challenging day. The ascent toward Minkiyani Pass involves steep climbs, loose scree, and possible snow patches depending on the season. From the pass, weather permitting, expansive views open toward the Chamba side and along the rugged Dhauladhar ridges. After touching the pass, descend carefully back to Kareri Lake.
Overnight: Kareri Lake Camp
Distance: ~7–8km | Time: 5–6 hrs
A long descent leads from the alpine zone into greener valleys. Vegetation changes noticeably as the trail drops toward the Gaj River valley. Bagga Pasture, located beside the flowing Gaj River, is a wide meadow used by local shepherds—an ideal campsite after demanding high-altitude days.
Overnight: Bagga Camp
Distance: ~8–9 km | Time: 4–6 hrs
A relatively easy and culturally rich day. The trail passes a high-altitude hydroelectric station, followed by walks through small villages, terraced farms, and forest patches. Reach Balh village, where trekkers experience authentic Himachali hospitality and rural mountain life.
Overnight: Balh Village Camp
Distance: ~10–12 km | Time: 5–6 hrs
The trail climbs steadily into high summer grazing grounds. Forests slowly give way to expansive alpine pastures used by shepherds during summer. Ani Goth is one of the highlights of the trek—a vast meadow offering panoramic views of the entire Kangra Valley and renowned for its spectacular sunsets.
Overnight: Ani Goth Camp
Distance: ~9–10 km | Time: 5–6 hrs
From Ani Goth, the trail continues toward harsher alpine terrain. Rocky slopes, snow patches, and open ridgelines dominate the landscape. Laka Base Camp sits below the Indrahar ridge, surrounded by glaciers and towering rock faces, creating a dramatic high-mountain atmosphere.
Overnight: Laka Base Camp
Distance: ~10–11 km | Time: 7–8 hrs
The toughest and most rewarding day. The climb to Indrahar Pass (4,342 m) involves steep ascents over scree and snowfields with exposed sections. From the pass, trekkers witness breathtaking views of Kangra Valley on one side and Chamba Valley on the other. After touching the pass, descend carefully back to Laka Base Camp.
Overnight: Laka Base Camp
Distance: ~7–8 km | Time: 4–5 hrs
The final descent follows the Triund route, passing rocky trails and forest sections with continuous valley views. Gradually, the wilderness gives way to the bustling streets of McLeod Ganj, marking the successful completion of the trek.
Overnight: Homestay, Mcleodganj/ Naddi
After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell and continue your onward journey, taking with you cherished memories of the Himalayas and the unique cultural experiences of your stay.
