Kasol in the midst of Parvati valley has become the trekking paradise of Himachal Pradesh. It offers the beauty of nature, flowing the Parvati river. Kheerganga trek is the most popular trek in Parvati valley. Kasol is famous for its lively culture and hippie atmosphere, due to Isreali living there, the vibe, food, the atmosphere makes the place frequently visited by tourist. Kheerganga is at an altitude of 2450m(13000ft). It is believed that Lord Shiva meditated here which makes the place spiritual.
Kheerganga trek offers you witness numerous waterfalls, small streams, and hot water spring, snow-laden mountains, lush green grassland, oak, and pine trees. it is an idle place for nature lovers and Backpackers.
The total distance of the trek is 13km and it takes 7-8 hours to complete. The amazing journey starts from Barshaini village, it is a small village where Tosh and Parvati river meets, it is the starting point of the trek. The Distance from Barshaini to Kheerganga is 12km. The trailhead towards the apple orchard. Massive Deodar and oak trees during the trek. On your way you will get a chance to explore Nakhthan village and Rudraprayag village, it is a perfect stopover to have some tea and snack to fuel yourself and also interact with locals and get to know about there culture and tradition.
You will be passing through old, traditional villages, waterfalls, and streams. The nearest village from Barshaini is Tosh. Tosh is famous for a lively atmosphere.
Things to do when you visit Kheerganga:
- Sunrise and Sunsets
It is the rule that when you visit in Mountains do not miss the sunrise and sunset, they look phenomenal. Enjoy sunrise with a hot cup of tea. The sun changes color from orange to blood red. The sky changes its color to orange and red. Spend some time gazing at starts and you will feel much better than before.
- Camping
Camping near waterfalls in the Himalayas is like a dream come true, it is so much fun. Nothing can be more awaiting then pitching your tents in the lap of Himalayas. As there is no electricity in the area, it is advised to book your tour with experienced tour operators. Always carry trekking equipment with you and thick warm clothes irrespective of the season you are visiting.
- Hot water spring
Once you have reached Kheerganga, head towards Parvati Kund it is famous for hot spring, take a dip in the hot water, it will relax your muscles and make you feel refreshed. It is believed that the water has some sacred healing properties. The dip in hot water spring releases stress and worries. There is also a small temple of Lord shiva at the top. You can easily find accommodation facilities at kheerganga, guest houses and hotels are available there.
- Live in Homestays rather than Hotels
On this trail, you will be passing through a lot of villages like Malana, Pulga, Tosh, Kasol, Barshaini. You can easily find a guest house and hotels to live there. Choose Homestays over hotels, it will give you a chance to interact with locals and get to know more about there culture, tradition and language.
Other nearby Treks to do
Kasol is a popular destination and is basecamp to famous trekking destinations in India. There are other treks also to do near Kheerganga, almost all the treks are amazing offering you an amazing view of the Himalayas, the grassland of Chandrakani pass, Mystery village of Malana and Tosh, these are the place where you can pitch your tents and stay and explore the nearby areas.
The best time to visit Kheerganga is in summers it offers you pleasant weather and the temperature in summer goes up to 45 degrees celsius. And in winter the beauty of the place increases due to snowfall and snow all around. In the rainy season, the trek becomes slippery and it is best to avoid trekking in monsoons.
To reach kheerganga, you have to reach Bhuntar, reach Bhuntar by taking a direct bus from Delhi To Bhuntar, once you reached to take a bus to barshaini.
Go visit the places and see by your own what it has to offer to you, explore the beauty and make memories.
