For me, a mountain escape is the most secure form of self-therapy! I find utmost comfort while peering at those endless vistas. So hiking these ruthless mountain trails is my way of walking the path to salvation, from the perils of city life! Hence, a trek in the Himalayas is like pushing the reset button. However, do not forget how much I love narrating my experiences.
The Kheerganga Trek is a hidden gem tucked away in Himachal Pradesh. A blend of adventure, serenity, and spirituality, with panoramic views of the Parvati Valley, hot springs, Kheerganga offers a relaxing end to a challenging trek. Whether you’re seeking a rejuvenating break from the city or a chance to connect with nature, the Kheerganga Trek has something special in store. Join me as I recount my experience and provide all the essential details for planning your trek to this Himalayan paradise.
Kheerganga Trek – An ideal weekend getaway from Delhi
The 14 km Kheerganga trek in Parvati Valley takes about 4.5 hours, starting from the scenic village of Pulga. From here, you can choose between two routes, one via Kalga, which cuts through a dense alpine forest filled with waterfalls and rocky patches, and the other via Pulga itself, passing through Tosh and Rudranag. The Kalga trail is shaded and rugged, while the Pulga route is longer, more exposed to the sun, and mostly flat. Reaching Pulga is easy, it’s just a 2-hour drive from Kasol via Barshaini, with local buses running every 30 minutes.
Waterfalls and natural springs bursting from the rocks keep the Kheerganga trek full of surprises. Once at the top, you’re greeted with surreal Himalayan views, a hot water spring to soak in, a small temple, cozy cafés, and a handful of stay options. It’s the kind of campsite that makes you want to stay and stare at the snow-capped peaks forever.
At 3000 m altitude, Kheerganga is a popular sacred place where hindu god, Lord Shiva meditated for thousand years. Today, it serves as a popular weekend getaway from Delhi!
Best time for the Kheerganga trek
November to January, if you are planning to experience snowfall in the region. However, Kheerganga is a year-round destination.
Ideal duration for Kheerganga trek: 3 days, Delhi – Kheerganga – Delhi
How to reach Kheerganga from Delhi
Trip to Kheerganga: Delhi – Bhuntar – Kasol – Manikaran – Barsaini – Kalga – Kheerganga – Rudranag – Tosh – Pulga – Kasol – Bhuntar – Delhi
The Kheerganga trek route
Total Kheerganga trip expense: INR 5000 (all inclusive)
If you’re planning to camp in Kheerganga, it’s smart to rent your own tent from Kasol. Plenty of cafes near the bus stop rent out tents, mats, and sleeping bags for ₹250–300 a day. I picked up mine from Freedom Cafeteria, about 150 meters behind the Kasol bus stop. With Kheerganga getting more crowded, finding a spot to stay at the top isn’t as easy anymore, so it’s better to go prepared.
The Kheerganga Trek – an experience
From Pulga, there are two routes to Kheerganga. One goes through Kalga, winding through dense forests and mountains. The other is a more open, 17 km trail that passes through Pulga and Tosh.
I started the trek from Kalga and made it to the campsite in little more than 4.5 hours. The regular break ensured lungs had plenty fo time to catch up.
Needless to say, these are the places where you must stop for a while, catch the stunning beauty around and appreciate nature. While returning I chose to descend the other way (Pulga).
Midway, stopping by Rudra Nag – the massive water stream originating from Kheerganga is a good idea. The water pouring with enormous energy makes for a magnificent spectacle. It’s an ideal spot for tourists to relax and recharge by the water duct. I chose to come back to Pulga via Tosh, making a loop. Moreover, it gave me an insight into the accessibility and difficulty grade of the two trails.
Camping at the Kheerganga top
5-hour trek later, we made it to the Kheerganga campsite located at 3000 meters above the sea level. The first look of Kheerganga resembles a lush green campsite cuddled by snow-clad mountains and lush alpine from all around. There are plenty of eateries, cafes, and accommodations available at the campsite.
Traveling to Kheerganga during peak season can make things tricky, cause accommodations get sold out pretty quickly.
There is a wonderful temple of the Lord and a hot water spring in the mid of Kheerganga campsite. The incredible starry night views and magical sunrise totally blew my mind.
It is recommended to start the mountain hikes early morning during summer.
Pack essential trekking gears like hiking boots, poles, a daypack with munchies, hat, sunglasses, a water bottle with filter. Layering warm clothes is important! Carry a first aid kit, with pills for headache and nausea.
Note: Over the years, Kheerganga has seen a surge in tourism, which, sadly, has led to its commercialization. This once-pristine mountain escape is now struggling under the weight of plastic waste and careless littering. Let’s not be the reason it loses its charm. Please respect the trails, pack your trash, and leave no trace.
An important update: Camping in Kheerganga to be Shut Soon on High Court Orders.
Meanwhile, the latest news is that the High Court has banned camping in Kheerganga. While this may disappoint many passionate trekkers, it’s also a reminder that nature isn’t ours to exploit, it’s ours to respect. If you’re planning your own Kheerganga trek, do it mindfully and sustainably.
Already been there? Share your experience or tips in the comments, or tag me on Instagram @whistlinghound. I’d love to hear your story or help you plan a meaningful trip.
Also, if you’re looking for other lesser-known Himalayan trails, check out my post on Nag Tibba Trek for another offbeat gem.
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