KHEERGANGA Trek – Himachal

✅ KHEERGANGA TREK – HIMACHAL PRADESH

Region: Parvati Valley, Kullu

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate

Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night

Max Altitude: ~2,960m

Price From: ₹1,500 approx

⭐ Short Overview

Kheerganga is one of Himachal’s most popular beginner treks — a forest trail with waterfalls, wooden bridges, and a natural hot spring bath at the top. The climb is steady with a few steep stretches, making it ideal for first-time trekkers, backpackers, and weekend travellers.

1. Difficulty Breakdown

Overall Difficulty: Easy–Moderate

Suitable for beginners with basic fitness.

Trail Type

• Forest trail

• Rocky patches

• Water crossings

• Well-marked route

Daily Distance

• Day 1: ~12 km ascent

• Day 2: ~12 km descent

Altitude Gain

• Kasol/Barshaini (~2,000m) → Kheerganga (~2,960m)

Fitness Required

• Ability to walk 6–7 hours in a day.

• Steep sections near the end.

Who Should Avoid

• People with knee issues during long descents.

• Anyone seeking a quiet trek — route can be crowded in peak season.

2. Itinerary (Day-wise)

Day 1: Barshaini → Kheerganga (Trek)

• Start from Barshaini (drive from Kasol).

• Choose between two main routes:

  • Kalga route: More forested, less crowded.

  • Nakthan route: Scenic and direct.

• Key landmarks:

  • Waterfalls

  • Wooden bridges

  • Riverside chai cafés

• Reach Kheerganga by afternoon.

• Enjoy the hot spring (Parvati Kund) at the top.

• Dinner + night stay in camps.

Trek Duration: 5–7 hours

Day 2: Kheerganga → Barshaini (Descent)

• Morning hot spring dip (optional).

• Descend via the same or alternate route.

• Lunch en route at mid-trail cafés.

• Reach Barshaini by afternoon.

• Drive back to Kasol.

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours

3. Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

• Camping stay at Kheerganga

• Sleeping bags + mats

• Dinner and breakfast

• Guide (optional but recommended)

• Hot spring access

Exclusions

• Transport to/from Barshaini

• Meals during trek (trail cafés)

• Gear rental (shoes, jackets)

• Personal expenses

• Porter services

4. How to Reach

Nearest Hub: Kasol

Route:
Kasol → Barshaini → Trek to Kheerganga

Transport Options

• Volvo bus to Bhuntar (nearest major stop)

• Local bus/taxi to Kasol → Barshaini

• Private taxis widely available

Distance

• Kasol to Barshaini: 16 km

• Barshaini to Kheerganga: 12 km trek

5. Stay & Food

Stay

• Alpine tents (twin/triple sharing)

• Sleeping bags + foam mats

• Basic/common washrooms

Food

• Dinner + breakfast at camp

• Plenty of cafés along the trail

• Veg-only meals recommended at altitude

6. Safety & Weather

Safety

• Trail is well-marked and crowded — low navigation risk

• Slippery in monsoon

• Avoid trekking after dark

• Phone network is patchy (BSNL better)

Weather

• Summer (Apr–Jun): Best weather

• Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Slippery, leeches

• Autumn (Oct–Nov): Clear skies

• Winter (Dec–Mar): Snow on trail; camps operate depending on conditions

7. Best Time to Visit

• April to June: Best overall

• September to November: Clear and pleasant

• Avoid: Peak monsoon for safety reasons

8. Packing List

Mandatory

• Trekking shoes

• Backpack (20–30L)

• Light warm layers

• Rain jacket

• Water bottle

• Cap + sunglasses

• Headlamp

• Power bank

Optional

• Trekking pole

• Swimwear for hot spring

• Energy bars/snacks

9. FAQs

Q. How difficult is Kheerganga for beginners?
Manageable — steady climb but no technical sections.

Q. Is camping allowed?
Yes, in the designated campsite areas near the top.

Q. Is the hot spring open year-round?
Usually yes, except during heavy snow.

Q. Is the trek safe?
Safe and popular, but avoid monsoon days and late starts.

Q. Any permits required?
Forest entry fees apply, paid at Barshaini.

Ready for your first Himalayan trek?